Story perspectives

Trump Faces Criticism After F-15 Downing, Pilots Missing

4/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faced frustration after an F-15 was shot down over Iran on April 3, 2026, leaving two American pilots missing.
Two American pilots remained missing after the incident.
The second pilot was rescued after more than 24 hours with Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) intelligence.
Lawmakers questioned his mental state after the celebration.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump's leadership during the crisis.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faced frustration after an F-15 was shot down over Iran on April 3, 2026, leaving two American pilots missing.
Two American pilots remained missing after the incident.
The second pilot was rescued after more than 24 hours with Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) intelligence.
Lawmakers questioned his mental state after the celebration.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump's leadership during the crisis.