New Delhi : The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has entered its 36th day, with escalating attacks and counterstrikes pushing the situation toward greater instability. Several major developments have emerged, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
According to Iranian officials, at least 2,076 people have been killed since the conflict began on February 28, while more than 26,500 others have been injured.
Iran has claimed that it shot down two U.S. military aircraft—an F-15E fighter jet and an A-10 attack aircraft. Tehran stated that the F-15E was downed within its territory. One crew member has reportedly been rescued, while the other remains missing. Iranian media further reported that the A-10 aircraft crashed in the Persian Gulf. However, U.S. authorities have not confirmed whether the crash resulted from technical failure or hostile fire.
The U.S. military has launched a search operation for the missing crew member. During these efforts, a Black Hawk helicopter involved in the mission came under Iranian fire. Although it sustained damage, it remained operational. Reports indicate that two helicopters were affected while searching for the missing pilot.
Iran has asserted that the aircraft were brought down using a “new, advanced defense system,” contradicting earlier U.S. claims that Iran’s air defense capabilities had already been neutralized.
In a separate development, Iran has rejected a 48-hour ceasefire proposal reportedly put forward by the United States through a third-party country, according to Fars News Agency. The United States has not yet issued an official response. US President Donald Trump, however, stated that the ongoing developments would not impact potential negotiations with Iran.
Amid rising tensions, Trump has urged the US Congress to significantly increase the defense budget to $1.5 trillion. The current US defense budget stands at approximately $839 billion (around ₹70 lakh crore). Trump has consistently advocated for higher military spending by the United States and its allies.