US shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier
What's the story
The United States military has shot down an Iranian drone that was approaching the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. The incident occurred on Tuesday when the drone, identified as a Shahed-139, approached the ship with "unclear intent," according to United States Central Command. The drone was shot down by an F-35C fighter jet from the carrier without any injuries or damage to American equipment.
Diplomatic strains
US considering military action against Iran
Tensions between the US and Iran remain high as President Donald Trump is considering military strikes against the Islamic Republic. Four senior Middle Eastern diplomats and a US official told NBC News that top American and Iranian officials are scheduled to meet in Turkey on Friday. According to four sources, the delegations will include White House special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Contradictory claims
Drone on 'routine mission': Iran
The Iranian Tasnim news agency has claimed that the drone was on a "routine and lawful mission in international waters, engaged in reconnaissance, monitoring, and imaging" when it was shot down. The report said the drone had transmitted its images to headquarters but lost communication afterward. Meanwhile, an unnamed Iranian official warned of a potential regional war if conflict escalates with the US.
Economic impact
Iran could disrupt shipping in Strait of Hormuz
The official also warned that Iran could disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route that handles about 20% of global oil supply. "If oil supplies are disputed for several months, it would have a major impact," he said. The official stated that Iran will fight if it is pressed into a corner. "It is better to fight than wait for someone to kill you," he said. "Death is better than humiliation."