U.S. Downs Iranian Drone Near Aircraft Carrier

The U.S. military shot down an Iranian drone that flew close to the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea on Tuesday. According to officials, the drone showed aggressive behavior and had unclear intentions. An F-35 fighter jet launched from the carrier destroyed the Shahed-139 drone to protect the ship and its crew.

U.S. Central Command spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins said the action was taken in self-defense. No American personnel were injured, and no equipment was damaged. Iran did not officially comment on the incident, although its state-linked media reported losing contact with a drone in international waters.

Following the incident, oil prices increased by more than one dollar per barrel, reflecting rising regional tensions.

Incident Happens Amid Possible U.S.-Iran Talks

The drone shootdown occurred as diplomats were working to arrange renewed nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran. President Donald Trump warned that tensions could worsen if Iran refused to make concessions on its nuclear program.

The U.S. has increased its military presence in the Middle East after recent deadly protests in Iran. Although Trump had earlier avoided direct intervention, he later sent naval forces closer to Iran and demanded renewed talks.

Iranian security official Ali Larijani said preparations for negotiations were underway, while Trump stated that discussions were progressing.

Iranian Boats Harass U.S.-Flagged Tanker

In a separate event the same day, Iranian Revolutionary Guard boats harassed a U.S.-flagged oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. Two boats and a Mohajer drone approached the vessel at high speed and threatened to board it.

The tanker, named Stena Imperative, ignored orders to stop and continued sailing. A nearby U.S. Navy warship, the McFaul, escorted the vessel and helped prevent further escalation.

U.S. officials said the situation calmed down after the escort arrived, and the tanker safely continued its journey.