Trump announces rescue of us airman in iran, threatens escalation

President Donald Trump is set to hold a press conference at 1pm ET on Monday to discuss the dramatic rescue of a US airman from Iran over the weekend.

Col. hailed for bravery as rescue mission unfolds

The airman, a colonel, was found 'deep inside the mountains in Iran' after his F-15E fighter jet was brought down by Iranian fire on Friday.

US military officials described the rescue operation as 'complex' involving over 150 planes and 200 munitions, with the stranded pilot armed only with a handgun.

Trump praised the rescued pilots, saying 'those two pilots were incredible, brave and we thank them.' He also highlighted the unusual tactics used in the operation, including a daylight rescue that lasted seven hours over Iran.

However, tensions with Iran remain high as the President extends a deadline for a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to destroy Iranian power plants and bridges if no agreement is reached.

Trump's profanity-laced ultimatum warned Iran that 'Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran.' He has since suggested a 45-day ceasefire proposed by Pakistan could be a pathway to a deal.

With the White House Easter egg roll wrapping up, the President is now preparing to address the nation on the rapidly escalating crisis, with military officials set to join him at the briefing.