Israel assisted in US rescue mission of downed airman in Iran. Israel was involved in the rescue operation of a U.S. airman in Iran, Fox News has learned. Israeli officials reportedly shared information with the U.S. as the search-and-rescue operation unfolded. Additionally, the Israeli military helped halt Iranian air strikes in the area while the rescue mission was underway over the past 36 hours. President Donald Trump said Sunday that dozens of aircraft were involved in the evacuation.