WASHINGTON, — June 09, 2026 : A U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz during military operations in the region, with both crew members rescued safely, according to U.S. officials.
President Donald Trump confirmed the safety of the service members while speaking to reporters on June 9, stating that both pilots were unharmed. He did not provide further details and said an official military report would be released shortly.
“The pilots are fine. Nobody injured,” Trump said.
According to sources familiar with the incident, an investigation has already been launched. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and officials are examining several possibilities, including mechanical failure, hostile fire, or other operational factors.
The incident occurred as the United States continues military operations in the Strait of Hormuz, where AH-64 Apache helicopters are being used to patrol shipping lanes, intercept hostile drones, and deter attacks by small fast boats. The helicopters, equipped with Hellfire missiles, have become a key component of U.S. operations in the area.
The patrols are part of a broader U.S. effort to enforce a naval blockade on Iranian ports that was imposed on April 13, 2026, following the collapse of diplomatic ceasefire talks in Islamabad. The blockade was introduced in response to Iran's actions to restrict and control commercial maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Under the blockade, commercial vessels are prohibited from entering or leaving Iranian ports. Since the operation began, U.S. forces have turned back 134 vessels, while seven additional ships that ignored warnings were disabled.
Military officials have not indicated whether the helicopter crash will affect ongoing patrol and blockade operations in the strategic waterway. Further details are expected following the completion of the investigation.
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