Iran has issued a sharp and controversial response to a U.S. woman who publicly expressed concern over her missing son, believed to be among pilots involved in recent military operations, saying her children are “more in danger” under President Donald Trump than in Iranian custody.

The remarks came through statements from Iranian embassies in Pakistan and South Africa after the woman posted an emotional message on social media, asking for prayers. She said one of her sons is a fighter pilot and that she had not heard from him or his unit following reports of aircraft losses.

Responding to her plea, the Iranian Embassy in Pakistan stated that her sons would be safer in Iranian custody than with U.S. rescue teams, asserting that Iran treats prisoners with “dignity and respect.” The embassy in South Africa echoed the sentiment, citing Iran’s historical treatment of prisoners of war and criticizing U.S. allies.

The exchange comes amid escalating conflict between the United States and Iran. On Friday, Iran reportedly downed two U.S. military aircraft in separate incidents. While one crew member has been rescued by U.S. forces, at least one remains missing, prompting ongoing search and rescue operations.

Unverified claims from Iranian state media suggested additional aircraft incidents, including a reported crash of a U.S. A-10 attack aircraft in the Persian Gulf. However, U.S. officials have not confirmed whether the aircraft was shot down or crashed due to other causes.

Footage circulating online shows extensive search efforts by U.S. aircraft and drones over mountainous terrain where a pilot is believed to have ejected. The operations highlight the risks faced by personnel in an increasingly volatile combat environment.

The broader conflict has intensified across the Middle East, with Iran launching strikes that triggered air-raid sirens in Bahrain and prompted interceptions by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Israel has also reported incoming missile attacks, signaling a widening regional impact.

The war, which began on February 28 following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes that reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, has already resulted in significant casualties. Reports indicate over 1,900 deaths, including military personnel and civilians across multiple countries.

Iran has repeatedly claimed success in targeting enemy aircraft, while the U.S. has acknowledged several losses, including crashes and incidents of friendly fire.

As tensions escalate, the human cost of the conflict continues to grow, with families on all sides facing uncertainty, fear, and loss amid the fog of war.