A gripping video circulating online captures the tense moments when a Kuwaiti local, wielding a metal pipe, threatens a U.S. F-15 pilot after mistaking him for an adversary. The pilot, still entangled in his parachute after his aircraft was mistakenly shot down by friendly fire, encounters a hostile reception from a small crowd.
In the video, the locals can be heard shouting menacing threats at the downed pilot. The chaos unfolds as he desperately attempts to de-escalate the situation, shouting, “Back up, stop!” as he faces the imminent threat of being struck by the pipe-wielding individual.
Amidst the confusion, the pilot repeatedly identifies himself as American, even dropping to his knees in a bid to demonstrate he poses no threat. His persistent pleas eventually break through the hostility, as the group comes to realize he is not an Iranian enemy, prompting them to lower their weapon and retreat.
This dramatic incident followed the unfortunate friendly fire incident where three F-15E Strike Eagle jets, each valued at approximately $31.1 million, were downed. Fortunately, all six crew members managed to eject safely and are reported to be in stable condition.
The group eventually seems to realize that he is not Iranian, lowering the pipe and walking away from their threatening stances.
Three F-15E Strike Eagle jets, which cost around $31.1 million each, were downed by Kuwaiti friendly fire. All six crew members safely ejected from the planes and are stable.
Kuwait’s defense ministry has confirmed it’s coordinating with the US regarding the “circumstances of the incident.”
US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Kuwait acknowledged the incident.
“During active combat—that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones — the U.S. Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses,” CENTCOM said.
“Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces and their support in this ongoing operation.”
Footage has since gone viral showing another F-15 pilot beaming as she came face to face with a group of locals.
“You’re fine? Really?” a man shouted while sprinting over to the pilot. “You need something to help you?”
The pilot confirmed she was okay, while the man reassured her that she was safe.
“Thank you for helping us,” he said.
Six US servicemembers have been killed in action as part of Operation Epic Fury, according to CENTCOM.
“It’s war and you have casualties in war,” President Trump said when probed by ABC journalist Jonathan Karl Sunday.
