The United States has launched military strikes against Iran after President Donald Trump accused Tehran of shooting down a US Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the region.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces began carrying out strikes at 5:00 p.m. EST (10:00 p.m. BST), describing the operation as a “proportional response” to what it called Iranian aggression.
Trump said the two crew members aboard the downed helicopter were safely rescued by a US Navy sea drone and suffered no injuries. He added that the United States “must, of necessity, respond to this attack.”
US officials said the helicopter went down near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route. However, at least one official indicated it remains unclear whether the aircraft was deliberately targeted.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Fars news agency reported several explosions in eastern areas of Hormozgan province, including Kuhistak, Sirik and Minab, following the announcement of the US strikes. (Newswire)