Tensions flare as Trump and Iran trade threats after Gulf strikes

After Iran-backed strikes on US bases in the Gulf and the downing of a US helicopter, Washington said it hit Iranian sites in response while Tehran warned it would not leave attacks unanswered. Trump rocker-style boasted that Iran had been defeated and would pay the price, as Iran’s IRGC claimed to have struck multiple US targets; US officials said most missiles and drones were intercepted with no casualties, signaling a renewed, fragile escalation in the Gulf and a tense diplomatic process.