A provincial television channel in Iran's Kohkilouyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province initially broadcast instructions for viewers regarding American personnel, later revising these directives. Concurrently, authorities in the same province and the adjacent Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province issued calls for citizens to locate American pilots.
Initial Broadcast: "Shoot on Sight" Directive Issued
A television channel operating in Iran's Kohkilouyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province initially instructed its viewers to shoot Americans upon sight. Some reports specified the directive as "shoot them as soon as you see them" or "shoot any Americans they encountered."
The initial broadcast explicitly directed viewers to "shoot them as soon as you see them."
Revised Directives: Hand Over Pilots Alive for Rewards
The provincial channel subsequently revised these instructions. The updated directive stated that police requested Iranians to hand over any downed American pilots alive to security agencies. This compliance was offered with the promise of a reward, described variously as a "precious prize" or a "significant prize."
The revised instructions promised a "precious prize" or "significant prize" for handing over American pilots alive.
Provincial Governor Promises "Special Commendation"
According to Iran's semi-official news agency ISNA, the governor of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province issued a separate statement. The governor reportedly indicated that individuals who captured or killed American crew members would receive "special commendation" or would be "specially recognized and rewarded."
The provincial governor's statement promised "special commendation" for individuals who captured or killed American crew members.
Calls from Neighboring Province for Public Search
Authorities in the adjacent Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province also issued a call for Iranian citizens. They urged the public to search for American pilots within their areas.
Authorities in the neighboring Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province called upon citizens to search for American pilots.