An Iranian television channel announced a reward for civilians who capture US pilots after a fighter jet was shot down over Iran on Friday. The aircraft, identified as an F-15E Strike Eagle, crashed during the ongoing war that began on February 28. The jet had two crew members on board.

One Crew Member Rescued, Search Continues

US special forces rescued one of the two crew members soon after the crash. However, the second crew member remains missing, and search operations are ongoing. Iranian authorities also launched their own search efforts in the region.

TV Channel Urges Civilians to Capture Pilots

An Iranian channel made a public appeal asking people to help locate and capture the pilots. It also offered a reward for those who hand them over to authorities. An anchor read out the announcement, "Military forces have launched a search operation to find the American fighter pilot who was hit earlier today. Dear and honourable people of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, if you capture the enemy pilot or pilots alive and hand them over to the police and military forces, you will receive a valuable reward and bonus."

Search Focuses on Mountainous Region

The search is centered in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province. This region is large, rural, and mountainous, making the operation more difficult. Authorities also asked residents in nearby Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province to remain alert and assist. At one point, a message on screen urged people to "shoot them if you see them."

Civilians Rush Toward Crash Site

After the announcement, many civilians drove toward the crash site in private vehicles. They hoped to locate the missing pilot and claim the reward. However, Iranian armed forces later issued a warning. They told people not to harm the pilot if found.

Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB posted on X, "Many people in southwestern Iran have gone to the area around the crash site of the American fighter jet in private cars to capture the American pilot. The Iranian armed forces have called on the people NOT TO LET anyone mistreat the pilot."

US Aircraft Seen Over Crash Area

Videos and images shared online showed US helicopters and aircraft flying low over the suspected crash area. Reports suggest that US forces are actively working to locate and rescue the missing crew member.