Israeli intelligence significantly contributed to the US rescue operation of an Air Force Colonel whose F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down by Iranian air defenses on April 3, 2026. The pilot evaded capture for approximately 36 to 48 hours in the mountains of southern Iran, specifically near Isfahan. US President Donald Trump commended the operation, stating that he ordered the deployment of 'dozens of aircraft' armed with advanced weaponry for the mission. The Colonel was located in a mountain crevice, and his successful extraction was facilitated by Israeli intelligence, which provided critical information about his whereabouts. Additionally, the CIA executed a disinformation campaign to mislead Iranian search teams, claiming the pilot had already been rescued. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz highlighted the operation as a demonstration of the close cooperation between US and Israeli militaries. The Israeli Air Force also paused its air operations in the region to prevent any accidental engagement with US forces during the rescue.