WASHINGTON: The United States carried out airstrikes on multiple locations in Iran following allegations that an American military helicopter was brought down, escalating tensions in the region.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes targeted military installations, radar systems, and other strategic sites in areas including Qeshm Island, Jask, Kuh-e-Mubarak, and Sirik.
Key infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz, such as telecommunications towers and air defense systems, was also hit.
Iranian sources reported loud explosions in Ahvaz, Hormozgan, and Bandar Abbas, sparking panic among residents in affected areas.
CENTCOM stated the operation was launched in response to the reported downing of a US Apache helicopter. Two personnel aboard the aircraft were safely evacuated through a drone-assisted rescue mission.
Meanwhile, US media reports suggest that President Donald Trump believes the strikes will not derail ongoing efforts toward a potential peace agreement with Iran.
A senior White House official also indicated that the nature of the proposed deal remains unchanged and diplomatic engagement continues.
