The U.S. military launched strikes against Iran Tuesday evening after a U.S. Army Apache helicopter went down off the coast of Oman, U.S. Central Command said. CENTCOM described the action as “self-defense” and a proportional response to Iranian aggression, carried out at President Donald Trump’s direction. Trump said Iran had shot down the aircraft while it was patrolling near the Strait of Hormuz, though Tehran has not publicly claimed responsibility.
Both pilots were rescued and were safe, officials said. CENTCOM initially said the cause was under investigation. The rescue was conducted by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and the 82nd Airborne Division, with assistance from a Navy Corsair unmanned surface vessel operated by 5th Fleet’s Task Force 59. Officials said it was the first rescue of its kind using a sea drone.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that foreign forces near Iranian territory faced risks from accidents, human error or crossfire, and said foreign forces should leave the area. The incident comes as Washington and Tehran continue negotiations over a possible peace agreement. Trump said earlier Tuesday that the sides were nearing a deal covering Iran’s nuclear program and reopening navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has not responded to that latest characterization.
The Strait remains a central issue because roughly one-fifth of global oil production passes through it. The U.S. has sought unrestricted navigation, while Iran has pushed for control and a tolling system. Washington imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports in April to pressure Tehran over the route.