Netanyahu says Trump thanked Israel for help in US rescue mission

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he spoke with US President Donald Trump, congratulating him on what he called a “perfectly executed American mission” to rescue an air force personnel in Iran.

“The President expressed his appreciation for Israel’s help,” Netanyahu said, adding that cooperation between the two countries is “unprecedented.”

CNN reported that Israel provided intelligence support and delayed some planned strikes on Iran to avoid disrupting the rescue operation.  

The remarks follow what the US described as a successful recovery of an American crew member after a fighter jet was downed over Iran.

I spoke earlier with President @realDonaldTrump and personally congratulated him on his bold decision and a perfectly executed American mission to rescue the downed pilot from enemy territory.

The President expressed his appreciation for Israel's help.

I am deeply proud that…

— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) April 5, 2026