Tensions Flare as U.S. Shoots Down Iranian Drone Near Aircraft Carrier

The U.S. military shot down an Iranian drone near the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The incident coincides with ongoing diplomatic efforts for nuclear talks and a separate encounter involving an Iranian attempt to seize a U.S.-flagged tanker.

The U.S. military confirmed that an Iranian drone was shot down on Tuesday as it approached the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. The confrontation emerged amidst attempts to organize nuclear discussions between Iran and the United States, coupled with warnings from President Trump regarding looming threats if an agreement is not met.

Navy Captain Tim Hawkins reported that the Iranian Shahed-139 drone exhibited 'unclear intent' before being neutralized by an F-35 U.S. fighter jet. He emphasized the action was a protective measure for the carrier and its personnel. The incident did not result in any American casualties or equipment damage, while Iran's U.N. mission chose not to comment.

Heightened tensions continued in the Strait of Hormuz as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard harassed a U.S.-crewed merchant vessel. Despite threats made by two IRGC boats and a drone, the tanker avoided boarding by accelerating. The situation stabilized with intervention from a U.S. Navy warship, ensuring the tanker's safe passage.

(With inputs from agencies.)