He refused to discuss details of the search and rescue effort, with one crew member believed to be missing, but the US President expressed frustration at coverage of any military operations, with videos being circulated widely on social media. When asked directly whether the downing of the jets would impact negotiations, he responded: “No, not at all. No, it’s war. We’re in war.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the US President was briefed on the incident before 5pm BST today.

This is the first public response Mr Trump has given directly referencing the incident, although he posted on his social media platform Truth Social “KEEP THE OIL, ANYONE?” at about 8.15pm UK time.

Iranian media reported that authorities have offered a reward of 10 billion tomans (about £50,000) for anyone who captures a downed US crew member alive.

Reports first came in of the downed fighter jet at around 3pm on Friday, with sources reportedly confirming a search and rescue operation was underway. CBS reported that the F-15 was shot down at about 11.45am BST.

US officials, including Mr Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, have repeatedly said Iran’s air defence capabilities have been destroyed in the conflict, posing questions around today’s events.

The specific location of the incident and the circumstances surrounding the downing of the jet are still unclear. However, the southern provinces of Khuzestan – a key area for oil – and Kohgiluyeh-Boyerahmad have been frequently mentioned on Iran’s state media.

Images shared widely on social media have appeared to show a US plane flying low around the province, which experts said would be consistent with a search and rescue mission.

According to two US officials speaking to CBS, two US aircraft involved in the rescue mission have also come under fire.