On Monday, April 6, 2026, Donald Trump extensively discussed the rescue operation of an American pilot whose plane was shot down by the Iranians. More than 170 planes were involved in this historic rescue, he said, but there was a mole who informed the Iranians, which he considers a major issue. Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of Defense, explained that the pilot hid in a cave to avoid being captured. American soldiers were well-prepared for the operation, which involved constant airstrikes against the advancing Iranian forces. Trump emphasized the importance of finding the individual responsible for leaking the information, stating that it threatened the pilot’s life and jeopardized national security.
In a message to the Iranians, Hegseth declared that the US military can go anywhere at any time to protect Americans. He highlighted the successful recovery of the pilots, emphasizing their honorable mission under President Trump’s leadership. The US asserts control over the skies, as demonstrated by the seven-hour aerial mission over Iran. The operation was conducted with bravery and ultimately led to success.
