Tehran says its air defense systems intercepted two US MQ-1 drones in separate incidents, raising fears of further escalation around the strategic waterway.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that it shot down two US MQ-1 drones near the Strait of Hormuz, amid growing tensions between Tehran and Washington.
In a statement issued Tuesday, September 15, the IRGC said one of the drones was brought down east of the Strait of Hormuz using an advanced air defense system operated by Iran’s Aerospace Force. The system is part of the country’s integrated air defense network, according to the statement.
Second Drone Intercepted in Separate Incident
The IRGC also said earlier Tuesday that it had intercepted another MQ-1 drone west of the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian authorities did not identify the operator of the drone or provide details about the exact location of the incident.
The latest claim came a day after Iran reported destroying another drone of the same type. The report was carried by Iran’s state broadcaster, IRIB.
Tensions Mount Around Strategic Waterway
The reported incidents could further heighten tensions between Iran and the United States around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
The waterway has long been a flashpoint between Tehran and Washington, with disputes over vessel movements and military operations repeatedly raising concerns about the security of shipping through the region.
