US Completes Strikes on Iran After Apache Helicopter Downed

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has declared the completion of defensive strikes against Iran, targeting key military infrastructure. The operation, which involved precision-guided munitions from U.S. Air Force and Navy fighters, focused on Iranian air defense, ground control stations, and surveillance radar systems situated near the critical Strait of Hormuz.

These strikes were initiated on Tuesday following an order from U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump had previously stated in an interview with ABC News that the U.S. military would deliver a "very strong, very powerful" response to the downing of an "Apache" combat helicopter, an act he attributed to Iran.

CENTCOM initially described the mission as a proportionate response to "unprovoked Iranian aggression." However, Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, issued a stern warning of retaliation. "Our powerful armed forces will not leave any attack or threat unanswered," Araghchi posted on X, adding, "Leave our region if you want to be safe. The history of the Persian Gulf has many chapters about the harsh fate of invading outsiders."

Iranian media reported explosions in various locations, including the city of Sirik near the Strait of Hormuz, Qeshm Island, and other areas. Reports indicated that two water tanks in the Sirik district were hit, disrupting the supply of drinking water. The strikes occurred in the vicinity of the port city of Bandar Abbas.