President Trump directed U.S. Central Command to launch strikes against Iranian radar and air defense systems along the Strait of Hormuz beginning Tuesday evening, in response to Iran's downing of an American Apache helicopter. The military conducted multiple rounds of attacks targeting facilities in the strategic waterway.
The helicopter downing and subsequent U.S. retaliation mark a dangerous escalation in tensions between the two countries. This comes after a ceasefire announced in April, and follows Trump's February operations against Iranian leadership. Despite the military strikes, Trump indicated he believes a deal with Iran remains possible, maintaining his dual approach of military pressure combined with diplomatic outreach.