Key facts
- A U.S. Army Apache helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz.
- The two crew members aboard the helicopter were safely rescued.
- President Donald Trump confirmed the pilots are "fine" and unharmed.
- The cause of the crash is not immediately clear.
- Official statements from the White House, State Department, and CENTCOM were not immediately available.
A U.S. Army Apache helicopter gunship crashed near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, with its two crew members safely rescued, according to The New York Times. President Donald Trump confirmed on Tuesday that the pilots were "fine" and unharmed, adding that an official report would be issued later that day. The cause of the crash remains unclear, with possibilities including mechanical failure or hostile action. The White House, State Department, and U.S. Central Command did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The incident occurred a day after Iran and Israel reported a halt in attacks on each other, following an appeal from Trump. Trump also indicated he might have an idea for an Iran deal within days. The weekend saw direct confrontations between Iran and Israel, with Tehran firing missiles and Israel responding with strikes on Iranian air defense systems and a petrochemical plant. Trump had previously warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to "be careful" about escalating conflict with Iran. A military source quoted by Tasnim news agency stated Tehran was ready for a prolonged conflict and could renew strikes against U.S. interests. Iranian officials indicated messages were being exchanged with Washington amid "extreme suspicion."