The United States military has confirmed that it carried out a fresh round of airstrikes on Iran on Tuesday, following an earlier incident involving the downing of a U.S. helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).
CENTCOM stated that the strikes were ordered by the Commander-in-Chief and launched at about 5 p.m. ET in response to what it described as escalating threats against U.S. forces and commercial shipping in the region.
According to the command, U.S. fighter jets targeted Iranian air defence systems, radar installations, and ground control stations believed to be involved in operations threatening American military assets and international maritime routes.
The military described the operation as a proportional response to recent attacks in the region, stressing that U.S. forces remain on high alert and prepared to counter further threats.
In the aftermath, reports indicated that Iran carried out retaliatory actions, claiming strikes on locations in Bahrain and Kuwait, as well as a military base in Jordan hosting U.S. personnel. Jordanian authorities later confirmed that five missiles were intercepted by its air defences.
Kuwait also reported activating its air defence systems after receiving warnings of potential attacks linked to the escalation.
Earlier, U.S. officials blamed Iran for the helicopter incident, though another account suggested it may have collided with an Iranian drone. The exact cause remains under investigation. Two service members were rescued from the incident and reported to be safe.
The developments add to rising tensions in the region, as diplomatic efforts and ceasefire arrangements remain fragile amid repeated exchanges between involved parties.
