U.S. launches retaliatory strikes after Iran shoots down Apache helicopter

U.S. Central Command announced Tuesday evening that U.S. forces had begun what the military characterized as self-defense strikes against Iran. The U.S. operations started at 5 p.m. ET and were ordered by President Donald Trump, according to the announcement. The strikes would be proportional to unjustified aggression on the part of Iran, according to U.S. Central Command.

Why did Trump order a strike? Hours earlier on Tuesday, Trump issued a statement promising a response after he said Iranians shot down a U.S. Apache helicopter Monday night as it was patrolling the Strait of Hormuz. The two pilots aboard the helicopter were safe and uninjured, according to Trump. 

What is Iran saying? The state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting on Tuesday night reported several explosions heard in the city of Sirik and Qeshm Island near and in the Strait of Hormuz.