What we know so far about the search for missing US airman in Iran

Following the downing of a US warplane, forces from the United States and Iran are collaborating to locate a missing American crew member. Iranian officials stated that two US aircraft were intercepted, including an F-15 jet operating in the southwestern region and a second plane engaged in a rescue mission. The F-15 carried two crew members, with one successfully recovered and the other still unaccounted for, according to CBS’s news coverage. Meanwhile, the pilot of the A-10 Warthog, which was also targeted, escaped safely into the Gulf and was later rescued.

Iran’s incentive for capture

Iran has announced financial rewards for individuals who can apprehend the missing airman alive, as reported by the state television network. During the ongoing search-and-rescue operations, US personnel encountered resistance in the form of gunfire, CBS noted.

Global perspectives on regional tensions

Senior international journalist Joel Gunter provides an overview of the current situation. In parallel, the BBC’s Will Grant highlights the contrasting experiences of two women in Cuba as the country’s energy crisis disrupts their pregnancies. At the annual CPAC conference in Texas, attendees express mixed views on Operation Epic Fury, a joint US-Israel initiative launched on 28 February.

Meanwhile, the BBC was present in New York’s courtroom to witness the former Venezuelan leader’s argument for using government funds to support his legal defense. In Manila, BBC News Asia Business Correspondent Suranjana Tewari offers insights from a petrol station. Cuba’s nationwide power grid collapse has left over 10 million people without electricity, according to recent reports.

Leadership and international diplomacy

During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister, US President Donald Trump addressed the rationale behind his decision to strike Iran. He asserted that the operation was a “tremendous success,” though emphasized the need to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities. As Middle Eastern unrest persists, the price of crude oil surged past $100 per barrel on Monday.

The BBC’s Diplomatic Correspondent, James Landale, is in Ukraine to assess the country’s latest anti-drone technology. Venezuela celebrated its inaugural World Baseball Classic victory, defeating the US 3–2 in the final match. Additionally, an Academy Award-winning actor secured their third Oscar but opted to attend a visit in Ukraine instead of attending the ceremony.

Humanitarian efforts and cultural exploration

Australia granted humanitarian visas to seven individuals, yet only two chose to remain, as detailed by BBC correspondent Katy Watson. In Doha, International News correspondent Barbara Plett Usher explores the Souq Waqif market amid ongoing regional strikes. The animated film “Retirement Plan,” voiced by Domhnall Gleeson and directed by John Kelly, has been nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 98th Academy Awards.

Strategic significance and military updates

Following an Iranian drone attack on the RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus on 1 March, the UK has deployed a Type 45 Destroyer to the Mediterranean. The BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, interviewed a Gold Star mother, Lynn, and a veteran, Jeremy, reflecting on the aftermath of the Iraq War.