Donald Trump acknowledged “one of the most daring search and rescue operations in US history.” The second passenger of the American plane shot down by Iran has been found. He is “seriously injured,” later clarified the American president but alive. Donald Trump hailed him as a “truly courageous man.” A press conference is scheduled for Monday, April 6 by the American president, at 7:00 p.m. Paris time, but here’s what we know at this stage.
– Hidden in a crevasse: According to the New York Times, the aviator, after being extracted from the aircraft, managed to hide in a crevasse. He was particularly sought after, even by civilians. The pilot climbed a ridge “over 2,100 meters altitude,” in very mountainous terrain, according to an officer cited by the American newspaper. The pilot did not use his communication device on purpose so that his signal would not be detected by Iranian troops.
– Intentional Confusion by the CIA: According to Axios, the CIA eventually located his hiding place, triggering the search operation. The CIA then deliberately misled Iran, leaking false information that the soldier had already been rescued, to camouflage the ongoing operation.
– Hundreds of troops: Donald Trump stated that “dozens of aircraft” were mobilized to find him. Searches conducted by both sides. The New York Times also mentioned that “hundreds of special operations troops and other military personnel,” as well as “cyber, space, and intelligence capabilities,” were deployed. It was the Navy members who extracted him.
– Diversion by the US Army: CNN reported that American planes and helicopters bombed Iranian convoys to create a diversion during the rescue. An abandoned airstrip was used by the US military to reach the distressed aviator.
– Rescue aircraft breakdown: According to CNN, the planes meant for their escape broke down, delaying takeoff. Eventually, three other emergency planes were able to take off from the site. The two non-functioning planes were reportedly destroyed by the American military.
