Second U.S. Crew Member Rescued from Downed F-15E Jet in Iran

The second crew member from a U.S. F-15E fighter jet downed over Iran has been rescued by special forces. The incident occurred on Friday when the jet was shot down. President Trump announced the rescue, stating, "WE GOT HIM."

U.S. officials reported that the rescue involved a heavy firefight. The crew member is confirmed rescued but not yet safe, as exfiltration from Iran remains necessary. Axios, Fox News, and Al Jazeera cited officials in confirming the details of the operation.

Trump described the rescue as an "Easter Miracle." The first crew member was rescued earlier, completing the recovery of both from the downed jet. NBC News exclusively covered Trump's reaction to the event.

Trump stated that the downed jet will not affect negotiations with Iran. He expressed optimism, saying, "I think I will be able to get a deal by tomorrow." This follows the Friday incident amid broader U.S.-Iran tensions.

Senator Tim Kaine called on Trump to dial back the rhetoric after the jet was downed. In a full interview on NBC's Meet the Press, Kaine urged moderation in statements regarding the conflict. The interview lasted 13 minutes.

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned that the downed jet will embolden Iran further. In a 14:48 segment on NBC, Esper discussed potential escalations. Separately, a retired four-star general stated that striking Iran's desalination plants would be a mistake, in a 24:30 interview.

Senator James Lankford said the U.S. is winning the war with Iran but more work remains. In a 15:17 full interview on NBC, Lankford outlined ongoing efforts. Cory Booker, in a 12:12 interview, said Trump is achieving none of his objectives in the conflict.

Discussions also emerged on potential U.S. actions, including mulling the seizure of Iran's Kharg Island. NBC reported this as a very dangerous endeavor, in a 20:39 segment. Trump pulled out big rhetorical guns to make his case for the war, according to a 15:38 NBC analysis.