‘Easter miracle’ Trump hails rescue of wounded US pilot in Iran as Tehran disputes mission

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Sunday, April 5, described the rescue of a US fighter jet crew member inside Iran as an “Easter Miracle,” following a high-risk military operation.

The rescue, which reportedly took place deep within Iranian territory, involved significant coordination and resources.

While US officials have outlined details of the mission, Iranian state media have disputed the account.

The development has drawn international reactions, including statements from Israeli leaders highlighting cooperation with the United States.

Trump hails rescue as 'Easter Miracle'

Trump confirmed the recovery of the US airman in a message to NBC News, stating, “The enemy was large and violent. The rescuers were brilliant, strong, decisive, and as cool as anyone can be. The Iranians thought they had him, but it wasn't even close.”

He described the operation as an “Easter Miracle,” emphasizing the difficulty of the mission and the conditions under which it was carried out.

According to Trump, the airman had been located “from deep inside the mountains in Iran,” and was “seriously wounded, and really brave.”

“The Iranian Military was looking hard, in big numbers, and getting close. He is a highly respected Colonel,” Trump wrote, adding, “This type of raid is seldom attempted because of the danger to ‘man and equipment.’ It just doesn't happen!”

The president also noted that the pilot of the downed fighter jet had been rescued earlier, on Friday, but said the US “couldn't talk about” the mission at the time because it would have revealed the presence of a second crew member. He added that although the airman sustained injuries, “he will be just fine.” 

Israel backs operation; Iran disputes US account 

Israeli officials publicly welcomed the rescue, framing it as a demonstration of close coordination between Washington and Jerusalem.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “All Israelis rejoice in the incredible rescue of a brave American pilot by America's dauntless warriors.”

He added, “This proves that when free societies muster their courage and their resolve, they can confront seemingly insurmountable odds and overcome the forces of darkness.”

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz also commended the operation, stating it was “another expression of the close cooperation between Israel and the US, even in the most complex moments.”

He added, “I commend our American partners for the safe rescue of the American aircrew.”

Israeli officials indicated that planned strikes were postponed to avoid interfering with the search and rescue effort, and that intelligence support was provided to assist the mission.

In contrast, Iranian state media rejected the US version of events. The Tasnim News Agency claimed that “several enemy American aircraft in the southern Esfahan region were destroyed... and the pilot rescue operation failed.”

It further alleged that US aircraft, including helicopters and a military transport plane, were hit and left burning. They also accused Trump of misrepresenting the situation, stating he “tweeted claiming a special operation to rescue the pilot of the crashed plane in Iran” to cover up a defeat.