On Monday, President Donald Trump issued one of his most direct warnings to Iran during an update on Operation Epic Fury, asserting that the entire nation could be obliterated overnight in just a matter of hours.
In a widely circulated video, Trump remarked, "A U.S. F-15 fighter jet went down deep within enemy territory in Iran while engaged in Operation Epic Fury, where our actions are unprecedented. The entire country could be wiped out in one night, and that night might be tomorrow night. Both crew members ejected from the aircraft and landed safely."
The statements were made during a press conference at the White House that was called to provide details on the rescue of the two crew members of the F-15E, which was shot down last Friday by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard near Dehdasht, in the Zagros Mountains in southwestern Iran.
This incident marked the first confirmed loss of a manned U.S. aircraft on Iranian soil since the conflict began.
The first crew member was rescued the same day by HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters under Iranian fire, with support from the CIA.
The second crew member, a severely injured colonel, was evacuated to Kuwait on Sunday, April 5, for medical treatment in what Trump described as an Easter miracle and "one of the boldest search and rescue operations in U.S. history."
This warning came as Trump's ultimatum for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was set to expire between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time the same day.
Previously, Trump had threatened to target Iranian power plants, bridges, oil wells, and desalination facilities if Iran failed to comply with reopening the strait.
Operation Epic Fury, launched on February 28, 2026, as a joint effort between the U.S. and Israel, has led to the destruction of nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.
According to Washington, the operation has significantly degraded Iran's missile capabilities by 90%, reduced 95% of its drones, and left its navy and air force "in ruins."
Key Questions on U.S.-Iran Tensions
What is Operation Epic Fury?
Operation Epic Fury is a joint military campaign launched by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, 2026, aimed at dismantling Iran's nuclear capabilities and reducing its military strength.
Why was an F-15 involved in Operation Epic Fury?
The U.S. F-15 fighter jet was participating in Operation Epic Fury to execute missions aimed at disabling strategic military targets within Iran as part of the broader effort to curb Iran's military capabilities.
What were the consequences of the downing of the F-15?
The downing of the F-15 marked the first confirmed loss of a manned U.S. aircraft in Iran, escalating tensions and leading to a high-profile rescue operation involving significant U.S. military resources.