Key facts
- The U.S. launched self-defense airstrikes against Iran after blaming Tehran for downing an American helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iran subsequently fired missiles at Bahrain, Kuwait, and a Jordanian air base hosting U.S. troops.
- The U.S. described its strikes as a proportional response to Iranian aggression, targeting air defense, ground control, and radar sites.
- Oil prices rose due to the escalating tensions and a significant draw in U.S. crude oil stocks.
- President Donald Trump stated the downed helicopter's aviators were uninjured.
The United States launched airstrikes against Iran early Wednesday, citing self-defense after an American attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, which the U.S. blamed on Iran. In response, Iran fired missiles targeting Bahrain, Kuwait, and a Jordanian air base that hosts U.S. troops, marking a significant escalation of regional tensions.
U.S. Central Command stated its strikes targeted Iranian air defense, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites, describing the operation as a proportional response to recent attacks on U.S. forces and commercial ships. President Donald Trump confirmed Iran shot down a U.S. Army Apache helicopter, though he noted the two aviators were rescued uninjured.
Jordan reported shooting down five incoming missiles aimed at the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base. Bahrain and Kuwait also confirmed intercepting incoming fire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S. strikes as a violation of sovereignty and indicated Iran would review its stance on negotiations to end the ongoing conflict.
The escalating conflict, occurring alongside previous exchanges between Iran and Israel, has impacted global energy markets. Oil prices rose, with Brent crude exceeding $91 a barrel, a more than 25% increase since the war began. The U.S. is seeking Iran's agreement to give up highly enriched uranium and lift sanctions, while Iran demands sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets.