US Launches Strikes on Iran After Helicopter Incident; Trump Calls Response 'Strong and Powerful'

The U.S. military announced it has initiated "self-defense strikes" against Iran, a move ordered by President Donald Trump in response to the downing of a U.S. Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command characterized the operation as a "proportional response" to the incident.

This action represents a significant escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. President Trump, speaking to ABC News, emphasized the forceful nature of the U.S. reaction, stating, "We're responding… this is a response to what they did with our helicopter last night, and I believe the response should be very strong, very powerful, and that's what this one is."

Details regarding the extent and consequences of the strikes have not yet been released by U.S. officials. As of the report, Iranian authorities had not issued an immediate statement. The situation remains tense amid heightened military activity in the Gulf region.

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We’re responding… this is a response to what they did with our helicopter last night, and I believe the response should be very strong, very powerful, and that’s what this one is.