US Apache helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz; crew rescued

A US Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter has gone down near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, but both crew members were rescued unharmed, according to US President Donald Trump.

Speaking after reports of the incident emerged, Trump said the pilots were “fine” and that more details would be released later. The cause of the crash remains unclear, with reports indicating it is not yet known whether the helicopter was shot down or suffered a technical failure.

The incident occurred amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region. Earlier the same day, United States Central Command said US forces had disabled a tanker in the Gulf of Oman that it alleged was attempting to reach Iran despite the ongoing US-led blockade. According to the military, an F/A-18 Super Hornet operating from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) struck the vessel’s propulsion and steering systems after its crew allegedly failed to comply with instructions.

The helicopter crash comes against the backdrop of continuing regional instability. Iran and Israel reportedly exchanged strikes before both sides signalled willingness to halt further attacks following an appeal from Trump. He stated that discussions toward a ceasefire and broader agreement were continuing, although he indicated that the US maritime blockade would remain in place until a final deal is reached.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global oil and gas exports. Any military incident in the area is therefore closely watched by governments and energy markets worldwide.