The US military intercepted and shot down a "highly aggressive" Iranian drone that was heading towards the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. According to US Central Command, an F-35 fighter jet took control of the situation and engaged the drone, bringing it down safely.
Eyewitnesses claim the drone was flying "toward the carrier with unclear intent", a description supported by officials. The incident unfolded as diplomatic efforts to negotiate with Iran reached a crucial point, prompting concerns over potential escalations in the region.
In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reportedly instructed his foreign minister to pursue fair and equitable negotiations with the US. This marked a significant shift, as the president had previously stated that turmoil in Iran was beyond his control. Observers interpret this move as an indication of support from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for talks.
The Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group has been part of a growing US military presence in the Middle East since violent anti-government protests broke out in Iran last month. The unrest marked the deadliest domestic crisis since the 1979 revolution, prompting President Donald Trump to send additional troops and ships to the region.
Despite these developments, tensions remain high. In another incident reported by Central Command on Tuesday, Iranian Revolutionary Guards harassed a US-registered merchant vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. A drone was deployed towards the ship, which approached at high speeds before allegedly threatening to board it.
Eyewitnesses claim the drone was flying "toward the carrier with unclear intent", a description supported by officials. The incident unfolded as diplomatic efforts to negotiate with Iran reached a crucial point, prompting concerns over potential escalations in the region.
In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reportedly instructed his foreign minister to pursue fair and equitable negotiations with the US. This marked a significant shift, as the president had previously stated that turmoil in Iran was beyond his control. Observers interpret this move as an indication of support from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for talks.
The Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group has been part of a growing US military presence in the Middle East since violent anti-government protests broke out in Iran last month. The unrest marked the deadliest domestic crisis since the 1979 revolution, prompting President Donald Trump to send additional troops and ships to the region.
Despite these developments, tensions remain high. In another incident reported by Central Command on Tuesday, Iranian Revolutionary Guards harassed a US-registered merchant vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. A drone was deployed towards the ship, which approached at high speeds before allegedly threatening to board it.