US President Donald Trump has vowed to retaliate after accusing Iran of shooting down a US Apache helicopter in a drone strike. However, the Islamic Republic has not confirmed that a US helicopter was intentionally shot down.
In a statement on Tuesday, the 47th POTUS said Iran shot down the US Apache helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz. He wrote: “Nevertheless, the United States must respond to this attack.”
According to the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM), the army attack helicopter went down while on patrol near the coast of Oman at around 03.00 Tuesday. The helicopter crew was rescued after a two-hour search and rescue operation.
However, CENTCOM did not disclose the cause of the crash.
Experts warn that the possible coming wave of escalation could jeopardize peace efforts.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi did not directly confirm the incident; However, he said the foreign forces in the region were at risk of being involved in an accident or crossfire, adding: “To reduce the risk, the best solution is for them to leave.”
He warned: “Iran prefers the language of diplomacy. But as our brave fighters have shown to the world, we also know how to speak other languages.”
The development comes amid hopes that a peace deal was close; however, the renewed Trump threats suggest otherwise. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have eased in recent months following Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities.
Analysts have warned that any renewed conflict could disrupt regional stability and put further pressure on global energy markets.
