The United States has carried out strikes on targets in Iran, with the US military describing the operation as a “proportional response” to the downing of an American helicopter, attacks on US forces, and threats to commercial shipping.
In a new statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the strikes were conducted in self-defence. The latest statement differed from an earlier one issued several hours before, which did not describe the action as defensive.
The strikes came after US President Donald Trump signalled that a response was likely following the loss of a US military helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. The helicopter incident had become a major point of tension between Washington and Tehran.
Iran has accused the United States of targeting civilian infrastructure during the operation, claiming that two water reservoirs were struck, disrupting drinking water supplies in affected areas.
In response to the US strikes, Iran launched attacks against American military facilities in the region. Iranian officials confirmed that one of the targets was the headquarters of the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain.
Both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said the operation was carried out jointly by Iran’s armed forces and the IRGC. Iranian statements described the attack as retaliation for what Tehran called US aggression against the country.
Iranian military officials also warned that any further US attacks would be met with stronger and more extensive military action against additional targets across the region.
While Iranian authorities confirmed that the Bahrain base was targeted, they did not immediately provide details on the number of drones or other weapons used, nor did they say whether the attack caused damage or casualties.
The latest exchange of strikes has raised fresh concerns about regional stability and the future of diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran. Despite the escalation, President Trump has continued to express optimism about ongoing negotiations, saying in recent interviews that he believes an agreement with Iran remains within reach.
It remains unclear whether the latest military actions will derail efforts to preserve the ceasefire that had been in place, or whether both sides will seek to contain the confrontation while continuing diplomatic talks.
