Trump declares victory after pilot rescue, but threats to US aircraft and personnel remain in Iran

US President Donald Trump declared victory after the rescue of a second crew member from a downed F-15 in Iran, claiming it demonstrates US air dominance. However, Washington sources indicate that the loss of aircraft and the complexity of the operation could deter Trump from a ground operation in Iran. Nonetheless, the ability of US troops to establish a contested airfield may embolden him to consider further operations against Iranian targets.