Iran has claimed responsibility for downing two American fighter jets, escalating tensions in the region. The incident occurred as President Donald Trump faces criticism over his handling of ceasefire negotiations with Tehran.
Trump stated that the downing of a US fighter jet does not alter the course of talks with Iran. However, Democratic congressman Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House armed services committee, disagreed, telling CNN that if Iran captured an American service member, it “fundamentally changes the equation.”
Smith also criticised Trump for making “patently ridiculous” claims about US military success and said the president’s contradictory statements hinder a potential ceasefire deal. “He keeps talking about how Iran is begging for a deal – there’s no evidence of that,” Smith said.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military said it has begun striking Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut, a stronghold of the Iran-backed group. The attacks followed an evacuation warning for the area, which has largely emptied of residents since the latest fighting erupted.
