Iran Says IRGC Shoots Down US MQ-9 Reaper Drone Over Strait of Hormuz
TEHRAN: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said Monday that its air defence forces shot down a US MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Strait of Hormuz.
According to a statement issued by the IRGC’s public relations office, the long-range unmanned aircraft was targeted by Iranian air defence systems with missile fire early Monday.
The IRGC said the drone was struck while operating over the strategic waterway and subsequently crashed into the waters of the Persian Gulf.
The force described its air defence personnel as “ever-watchful fighters” and said they successfully engaged the US aircraft using modern missile systems.
The reported downing of the MQ-9 Reaper marks a significant escalation in military tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly in and around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global energy shipments.
The IRGC statement also praised what it described as the continued presence and support of the Iranian people, saying public backing remained the strongest support for the country’s armed forces.
The United States has not been quoted in the statement as confirming the reported loss of the drone. Independent confirmation of the incident was not immediately available.