WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: Tensions have escalated sharply after Iran shot down two American fighter jets over its territory. A massive search-and-rescue operation is currently underway for a missing crew member of an F-15E Strike Eagle that was downed on Friday.
While one member of the F-15E was rescued earlier, the pilot of a second aircraft, an A-10 Thunderbolt, managed to eject safely after reaching neutral territory. Iranian state media has announced rewards for citizens who capture and hand over American personnel alive, further intensifying the situation.
In a related development, reports suggest that a recent Iranian strike on the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia caused significantly more damage than initially disclosed by officials. Efforts for a ceasefire have hit a roadblock as Qatar is reportedly resisting US requests to act as a primary mediator.
Despite the ongoing maritime blockade, a French-owned container ship successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, marking a rare passage for a Western European vessel since the conflict began. (WSJ)
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