The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced via social media that the United States has launched a series of air strikes against Iran.
According to reports, the attacks commenced a short time ago and were carried out in response to the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter off the coast of Oman. The operation has also been described as a defensive strike.
A US official, speaking to foreign media, stated that the strikes were intended as a warning to Iran. The official further noted that the United States believes the attacks will not disrupt ongoing efforts and discussions aimed at bringing an end to the conflict.
Initial reports indicate that the strikes targeted air defence and radar systems located around the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign media sources have also suggested that additional attacks remain a possibility.
The Apache helicopter was reportedly brought down on Monday by an Iranian Shahed drone. However, US officials have said it remains unclear whether the incident was the result of a deliberate attack or an accident.
US President Donald Trump stated that the two pilots aboard the helicopter were unharmed and were subsequently rescued by a US unmanned drone.
