(TNND) — A U.S. Army Apache helicopter was shot down by Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday night.
According to U.S. Central Command, the AH-64 Apache was on a patrol mission near the coast of Oman. The two pilots onboard were safely rescued within two hours and are in stable condition. The cause of the incident is under investigation.
President Donald Trump stated via Truth Social that the U.S. “must” respond to the attack. “There were two pilots involved, both are safe and uninjured,” he wrote.
Witnesses reported the helicopter went down as tensions between the U.S. and Iran continue to escalate. On Monday, Iran and Israel exchanged fire, raising concerns over regional security.
Trump indicated that negotiations with Iran might be progressing, expressing optimism about signing a deal “in two or three days.” However, major differences remain between the U.S. and Iran regarding nuclear capabilities and sanctions relief.
Lebanese Army Commander Gen. Rodolphe Haykal met with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to discuss increasing tensions in the region.
No further details on lane closures or traffic disruptions related to the incident have been released. Authorities are continuing their investigation.