What we know so far about the search for missing US airman in Iran

What We Know So Far About the Search for Missing US Airman in Iran

Iranian and American military personnel are currently engaged in efforts to locate a US airman who went missing following the downing of a warplane. According to Iranian state media, two US aircraft were shot down—one an F-15 jet operating in the southwestern region, and a second A-10 Warthog involved in a rescue mission for the F-15 crew. The F-15 had two crew members on board; one was recovered, while the other remains unaccounted for, as reported by CBS. The A-10 pilot ejected into the Gulf and was successfully rescued, CBS added.

Iran has announced financial incentives for individuals who can deliver the missing airman to authorities alive. During search-and-rescue operations, US teams faced hostile fire, according to Iranian state television. Senior international reporter Joel Gunter provides an overview of the current understanding of the situation.

Energy Crisis and Personal Stories

The BBC’s Will Grant highlights the contrasting experiences of two women whose pregnancies are deeply affected by Cuba’s ongoing electricity shortages. More than 10 million people are grappling with power outages after the national grid collapsed again, disrupting daily life. Meanwhile, in Ukraine, the BBC’s Diplomatic Correspondent, James Landale, examines the country’s latest advancements in anti-drone technology.

Political Developments and Global Reactions

Attendees at the CPAC conference in Texas expressed mixed views on Operation Epic Fury, a joint US-Israel initiative launched on 28 February. The BBC was present in a New York courtroom as the former Venezuelan leader argued for access to government funds to finance his legal defense. In a separate development, the UK has deployed a Type 45 Destroyer to the Mediterranean after an Iranian drone struck the RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus on 1 March.

As tensions persist in the Middle East, the price of crude oil surged past $100 per barrel on Monday. The US president, Donald Trump, emphasized during a press briefing that the operation was a “tremendous success” and reiterated his goal of preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities.

International Events and Human Interest

Venezuela secured its first-ever World Baseball Classic victory, defeating the United States 3–2 in the final. A renowned Academy Award-winning actor, who previously won three Oscars, chose to skip the ceremony to visit Ukraine. In Manila, BBC News Asia’s Business Correspondent, Suranjana Tewari, observed the situation at a petrol station amid rising fuel prices.

Humanitarian Efforts and Regional Updates

Following Australia’s decision to issue humanitarian visas to seven individuals, only two opted to remain in the country, as explained by BBC correspondent Katy Watson. The BBC’s International News correspondent, Barbara Plett Usher, visited Doha’s Souq Waqif market, where the impact of regional strikes on daily commerce became evident. Additionally, the animated film *Retirement Plan*, voiced by Domhnall Gleeson and directed by John Kelly, has been nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 98th Academy Awards.