Iran has shot down two US warplanes, highlighting its ability to inflict tactical setbacks and raise the costs of the conflict for the United States and Israel, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The downed aircraft included an F-15E fighter jet and an A-10 attack plane, marking the first US or Israeli losses over Iranian airspace in thousands of sorties.

One crew member was rescued, while at least one remains unaccounted for. The A-10 pilot ejected outside Iranian territory and was also rescued.

Experts say the incident demonstrates Iran’s asymmetric military strategy, aimed at surviving and weakening opponents rather than achieving outright victory.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has continued to launch missiles and drones daily, disrupting Gulf tanker traffic and targeting critical infrastructure.

Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, mocked the US, suggesting the loss of aircraft undermines its war objectives.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have declined US proposals for talks in Islamabad, rejecting White House demands to end the conflict.

Analysts warn that despite US air superiority, Iran remains capable of threatening American forces.

Former Defence Department official William Wechsler said the incident shows the US has not achieved full air supremacy, and the war could escalate further.

The shootdowns come after five weeks of conflict involving 13,000 combat flights and extensive airstrikes.

US officials report significant damage to Iranian military assets, while thousands of US troops have been deployed to the region, giving options for potential ground operations.

Previous Iranian strikes, including attacks on Saudi bases, radar installations, energy facilities, ports, and embassies, indicate Tehran continues to pose a strategic threat across the region.