Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Tuesday that it had shot down a US MQ-9 Reaper Drone after the aircraft allegedly entered Iranian airspace in the Gulf region. The announcement comes amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington despite ongoing ceasefire discussions.
According to Iranian state media, the IRGC detected what it described as hostile aircraft operating near Iranian territory before taking military action. Officials said the US MQ-9 Reaper Drone was targeted after allegedly violating Iranian airspace, although no independent confirmation of the incident was immediately available.
The IRGC also stated that Iranian forces fired at an American RQ-4 reconnaissance drone and a US F-35 fighter jet during the same operation. However, Iranian authorities did not release details regarding possible damage or the final outcome involving those aircraft.
Iranian military officials warned that Tehran reserves the right to respond to any future ceasefire violations by the United States. The statement described retaliation as a “legitimate and definite” right, highlighting growing concerns about the stability of the fragile truce between both countries.
The latest claims emerged shortly after the US military confirmed attacks on rocket-launch sites in the region. Washington described the strikes as defensive operations aimed at protecting American interests and military personnel stationed in the Gulf region.
The US MQ-9 Reaper Drone is one of the most advanced unmanned aerial systems used by the United States military. Developed by General Atomics, the drone can operate for more than 27 hours at high altitudes while collecting intelligence through advanced cameras, radars, and sensors.
Security analysts say the incident could further increase tensions in the Middle East at a time when diplomatic negotiations remain highly sensitive. The Gulf region continues to face uncertainty as both Iran and the United States exchange warnings while attempting to maintain a fragile ceasefire agreement.
