Washington, June 10: The United States has launched new military strikes against Iran following the reported downing of a US Army Apache helicopter a day earlier, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
US President Donald Trump described the retaliatory action as “very strong, very powerful” in remarks to ABC News after the operation began.
CENTCOM confirmed on X that the strikes were launched at 5 p.m. US Eastern Time (2100 GMT) on the president’s orders.
Explosions reported in southern Iran
Following the US announcement, multiple explosions were reported in southern Iran. Iranian media said air defence systems were activated in:
- Bandar Abbas
- Qeshm Island
- Sirik County
- Jask County
The semi-official Tasnim news agency reported at least six explosions in Sirik, Qeshm Island and Minab, claiming the areas were struck by US fighter jets.
Helicopter incident triggered escalation
Tensions escalated after Trump alleged that Iran shot down a US Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.
He said the aircraft was on patrol when it was targeted, though the two pilots on board were later confirmed to be safe and rescued after the crash.
Trump warned that the US “must respond” to the attack.
Rising regional tensions amid wider conflict
The situation comes amid heightened instability in the Middle East, with Israel also carrying out renewed strikes in southern Lebanon.
Israeli military officials have indicated that recent operations against Iran may be only a “preparation” for larger future action, further escalating fears of a broader regional conflict.
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