Iran claims to shoot down US drone near Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced on Saturday, November 15, 2026, that it shot down a US MQ-1 drone over Qeshm Island near the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian military group stated that the MQ-1 drone was intercepted using a new and advanced air defense system. This development follows a report from US Central Command stating that US forces shot down two Iranian attack drones heading toward Bahrain on Friday, November 14, 2026.

Military escalations and drone strikes

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed the MQ-1 drone was detected and destroyed by its advanced air defense technology. According to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the group has destroyed 56 MQ-9 drones since the war involving the United States and Israel began on February 28, 2026. This military conflict has continued despite a memorandum of understanding that Washington and Tehran signed on June 18, 2026.

US Central Command reported that the two Iranian attack drones intercepted on November 14, 2026, caused no material damage or injuries. The US Central Command also denied previous claims made by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps regarding the destruction of a US radar in Bahrain. While diplomatic mediation efforts to end the war have been conducted by Qatar and Pakistan, military actions in the region continue to increase.

Maritime incidents in the region

Tensions in the region involve a dispute over control of the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran maintains maritime restrictions and Washington maintains a naval blockade. The IRGC Navy reported the burning of two supertankers that were attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz discreetly. The Iranian Army reported similar incidents involving two other tankers located east of the Strait of Hormuz.

The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has resulted in frequent aerial and maritime confrontations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps continues to claim successes against US technology, while US Central Command maintains that its defensive operations prevent direct damage to regional infrastructure. The situation remains volatile as international mediators attempt to facilitate a resolution to the conflict that started in February 2026.

Glossary

• Qeshm Island — Qeshm Island is Iran's largest island and the largest in the Persian Gulf. It is known for ecotourist attractions such as the Hara marine forests.
• MQ-1 — The MQ-1 is a General Atomics drone. It is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle.
• MQ-9 — The MQ-9 is a General Atomics Reaper drone. It is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle.