US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Tuesday that American forces had completed a series of self-defense strikes against Iranian military targets in response to the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter on Monday. The strikes targeted Iranian air defense systems, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites near the Strait of Hormuz, using precision munitions from US Air Force and Navy fighter jets.
Details of the Strikes
The operation began at approximately 5 pm Eastern Time (2100 GMT) on Tuesday. CENTCOM described the action as a proportional response to recent attacks on US forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters. The command emphasized that US forces remain vigilant and postured to defend against what it termed unjustified Iranian aggression.
Trump's Response
Earlier, President Donald Trump stated that Washington was compelled to respond to the alleged Iranian attack. On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I have just been informed by our great military that last night the Iranians shot down one of our highly sophisticated Apache Helicopters while patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz." He confirmed that both pilots were rescued and uninjured but stressed that the United States must respond. In an interview with ABC News, Trump described the strikes as very strong and very powerful, saying, "I think it's very important to respond. They shot down a helicopter, and we are responding as we speak."
Further Strikes Reported
According to Axios, citing a senior American official, US military forces attacked several Iranian air defense batteries and radar systems around the Strait of Hormuz. A second round of strikes targeted additional air defense and radar systems, and a third wave was reported to be underway. Politico, citing a senior White House official, reported that Trump believes an Iran deal is still close despite the retaliatory strikes. The official stated, "Nothing changes where the deal stands right now."
Congressional Reaction
US House Speaker Mike Johnson described the strikes as proportional and limited. He noted that the White House and Pentagon characterized the action as defensive in nature, targeting radar, missile, and command and control sites. Johnson confirmed that he was notified before the strikes began and had been at the White House earlier with Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Iran's Response
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on X, stating that the US had opted to test Tehran's determination. He warned, "Our Powerful Armed Forces will leave no attack or threat unanswered. Leave our region if you want to be safe."
