Trump Says Iran Shot Down US Apache Helicopter Over Strait of Hormuz, Vows Response. Ya

Two pilots rescued safely by US Navy drone; incident threatens fragile ceasefire as Washington warns Tehran.

Washington, June 9, 2026: US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Iran shot down an American Apache helicopter patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz overnight, adding that the United States “must, of necessity, respond to this attack.”

What Trump Said.

Truth Social Post: “I have just been informed by our Great Military that last night the Iranians shot down one of our highly sophisticated Apache Helicopters while patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote.

Crew Safe: He confirmed two pilots were on board and “both are safe and uninjured”.

Warning: “Nevertheless, the United States must, of necessity, respond to this attack”. 

Details of the Incident.

Crash & Rescue: The AH-64 Apache went down around 3 a.m. local time Monday near the Strait of Hormuz. The two crew members were rescued by a US Navy unmanned surface vessel, a Saronic Corsair, off the coast of Oman after spending two hours in the water.

Cause Unclear: While Trump blamed Iran, other reports noted it was not immediately clear whether the Apache was shot down, experienced mechanical failure, or had another issue.

First for US Navy Drones: US Central Command said the rescue marked an operational first for the Navy’s AI and drone task force in the Middle East. 

Rising Tensions in the Gulf.

Ceasefire Strain: The incident threatens to shatter a fragile ceasefire announced on April 8. Israel and Iran had agreed to halt strikes after an appeal by Trump, but skirmishes continue.

Strait of Hormuz Flashpoint: The strategic waterway has seen escalating confrontations, including mine-laying, ship seizures, and threats to oil traffic. Trump previously ordered US forces to “shoot and kill” Iranian small boats in the strait.

Diplomatic Push: Trump said a deal with Iran could come “in two or three days” and claimed the US was in the “final throes” of talks. He also warned of “total victory” over Iran within two weeks. 

The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly a fifth of global oil supply. Iran has previously targeted US drones and aircraft in the region during periods of heightened tension.