US Strikes Iran After Apache Downing; Bitcoin Falls, Oil Rises

U.S. forces launched self-defense strikes against Iranian targets at 5 p.m. ET after an Apache helicopter was downed over the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command announced its forces “began launching self-defense strikes against Iran at 5 p.m. ET … in response to yesterday’s downing of a U.S. Army Apache helicopter.” The helicopter crew was rescued, and President Donald Trump called the operation a “proportional response to Iranian aggression.”

Iran described the strikes as a “gross violation of the ceasefire” and warned of possible retaliation. International mediators, including Pakistan, had been pressing for an extension of the ceasefire and broader talks on Iran’s nuclear program and regional security.

Markets moved immediately after the announcement. Bitcoin fell about 2% over 24 hours to trade below $62,000. Brent crude was near $93 a barrel and showed intraday volatility as traders priced risks to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for roughly 20% of global oil shipments. Spot gold traded near $4,220.

Market participants cited a firmer U.S. dollar and expectations of higher inflation from rising energy costs as factors pressuring gold. Some analysts said bitcoin’s decline matched past episodes when investors reduced exposure to higher-risk assets during geopolitical tensions.

The strikes follow a fragile ceasefire and add to U.S. and allied operations in the region since late February 2026 under Operation Epic Fury, an effort targeting Iranian military and nuclear capabilities. Diplomats had been trying to convert the temporary halt in hostilities into longer-term negotiations.

The situation remains fluid. Markets will watch further military developments, statements from U.S. and Iranian officials and mediators, and incoming economic data that could affect central bank expectations and asset prices.