U.S. launches new attacks on Iran in retaliation for downing of helicopter, CENTCOM says

The U.S. launched precision strikes against Iranian air defense and radar sites near the Strait of Hormuz after Iran allegedly shot down an American military helicopter, according to CENTCOM. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed attacks on 21 U.S. targets in the region, including Jordan’s Al Azraq base and Bahrain’s U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters, while warning sirens sounded in Bahrain." "article": "The U.S. conducted retaliatory strikes against Iranian air defense, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites near the Strait of Hormuz, following Iran’s alleged downing of an American military helicopter. CENTCOM confirmed the operation involved precision munitions from U.S. Air Force and Navy fighter jets, describing it as a proportional response to attacks on U.S. forces and international shipping. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for 21 attacks across the region, including rocket strikes on Jordan’s Al Azraq military base and drone attacks on the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. The IRGC also stated it shot down an MQ-9 Reaper drone over the city of Jam and targeted F-35 jet hangers at Al Azraq. Bahrain’s Interior Ministry issued a warning via social media, urging citizens to seek shelter as sirens sounded. The IRGC had previously announced drone strikes on the U.S. base in Bahrain. The escalation follows recent tensions, including Iran and Israel’s exchange of attacks, which ended with a ceasefire. U.S. Central Command declared the strikes complete but emphasized continued vigilance to defend against further threats. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied involvement in the helicopter downing, instead accusing U.S. forces of provoking risks in the region. The incident raises concerns about broader instability in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.