US Central Command said its forces carried out “self-defense strikes” against targets in Iran on Tuesday, following the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, according to statements cited on social media. The US military said the operation was ordered by the US president in response to the incident.
Iranian state media reported multiple explosions and air defense activity in several southern areas, including Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island, Sirik and Minab, with some outlets alleging the strikes were carried out by US fighter jets. The developments come amid sharply escalating tensions between the two countries, with Washington and Tehran exchanging accusations over recent military actions.
Separately, Israeli air and drone strikes across southern Lebanon killed at least 16 people and injured dozens on Tuesday, including a deadly strike on the city of Tyre and other attacks in Nabatieh and nearby towns. Lebanese authorities reported continued high casualty figures from months of ongoing cross-border violence.
Credit – CGTN