US President Donald Trump has accused Iran of shooting down an American Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.
He said the United States would respond to the attack because it was necessary. Trump shared the statement on social media and confirmed that both pilots survived the incident without injuries.
The helicopter crashed during a patrol mission near the coast of Oman. The two crew members were rescued within about two hours. An American unmanned sea drone helped locate and recover them. US military officials said both soldiers are in stable condition.
Relations between the United States and Iran have remained tense for many years. The two countries have disagreed over regional security, military activities, and Iran’s nuclear program. In recent months, concerns have grown over the possibility of a wider conflict in the Middle East, leading to increased military patrols in the region.
This is the first Apache helicopter lost since tensions between the United States and Iran increased. The incident happened shortly after Trump said the two countries were close to reaching an agreement to reduce conflict in the region.
US Central Command said rescue efforts involved several military units, including naval, air force, and army teams. The operation was supported by Task Force 59, a Bahrain based unit that uses advanced unmanned systems to improve security in Middle Eastern waters.
Meanwhile, Iran also responded with strong remarks. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said his country prefers diplomacy. However, he warned that Iran would react if agreements were broken.
Trump has not yet explained what action the United States may take in response. As tensions continue to rise, many observers are watching closely to see how both countries move forward.
