Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated US President Donald Trump and the American military on the Sunday rescue of an F-15 fighter jet pilot who was stranded in Iran after his aircraft was downed.
"Congratulations, President Trump. All Israelis rejoice in the incredible rescue of a brave American pilot by America's dauntless warriors,” Netanyahu said.
He added that the rescue “proves that when free societies muster their courage and their resolve, they can confront seemingly insurmountable odds and overcome the forces of darkness and terror.
Defense Minister Israel Katz also congratulated the US for the rescue, calling it "an expression of the close cooperation between Israel and the US, even in the most complex moments."
He also cited the operation against the petrochemical plant in the city of Mahshahr, which was "a central part of the Iranian economy and the ability of the Iranian terrorist regime to function, produce weapons and promote terrorism."
US rescues downed pilots in Iran
The United States rescued both of the pilots who were in the downed F-15E plane in southern Iran, with the second one being rescued after an almost two-day-long search.
“WE GOT HIM!”, Trump's Sunday announcement on Truth Social read.
“My fellow Americans, over the past several hours, the United States Military pulled off one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History, for one of our incredible Crew Member Officers, who also happens to be a highly respected Colonel, and who I am thrilled to let you know is now SAFE and SOUND!”
Trump stated that the airman was seriously injured, but he assured in his statement, "He will be just fine."
Goldie Katz and Shoshana Baker contributed to this report