Trump posts 'Keep The Oil' as Iran hunts downed F-15 pilot with bounty

WASHINGTON, DC: A fast-moving military and political situation unfolded on Friday, April 3, as President Donald Trump called for the United States to take control of Iranian oil assets, even as US forces continued an urgent search-and-rescue operation for a missing pilot behind enemy lines.

“KEEP THE OIL, ANYONE?” Trump posted on Truth Social, drawing attention as rescue efforts intensified following the loss of a US fighter jet.

The remarks came during a volatile 24-hour period in which two US aircraft were lost in the region. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that an F-15E Strike Eagle went down over Iran, with one crew member recovered and a second still missing.

Search intensifies for missing F-15E crew

The downing of the F-15E marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict. Iranian state media circulated images it claimed showed wreckage and an ejection seat, though US officials have not verified those materials.

CENTCOM confirmed that recovery operations are underway to locate the second crew member. The search is focused on a mountainous region, with US forces deploying aircraft and support systems to assist in the mission.

Reports indicate that search-and-rescue teams are operating in contested conditions, with aircraft, including helicopters and support planes, involved in the effort. Officials have not released detailed information about the operation’s scope or timeline.

Tehran offers bounty for pilots

Iranian state media has broadcast messages encouraging civilians to report or assist in locating the missing pilot. Reports indicate that a monetary reward has been offered for information leading to the pilot’s capture.

These announcements have increased concern for the safety of the missing crew member, as both military and civilian actors may be involved in search efforts on the ground.

US officials have not commented directly on the broadcasts but have continued to prioritize recovery operations.

Second US aircraft crashes in the Gulf

Separately, an A-10 aircraft crashed in the Persian Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz around the same time as the F-15E incident. According to officials cited by The New York Times, the pilot was safely recovered.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The aircraft was reportedly operating in support of ongoing missions in the region, though details have not been officially confirmed.

The loss of two aircraft in close succession has drawn attention to operational conditions in the area as military activity continues.

'Keep the Oil' rhetoric sparks backlash

Trump’s remarks on Iranian oil resources added a new dimension to the unfolding situation. The president previously advocated for securing energy assets in conflict zones, and reiterated that position in his latest post.

The timing of the statement, during an active recovery mission, has prompted reactions across political and policy circles. While some view it as part of a broader strategic approach, others questioned its alignment with ongoing military priorities.

As the White House prepares for a scheduled update later in the day, attention remains focused on the status of the missing pilot and the next phase of US operations in the region.