This incident occurred against the backdrop of diplomatic efforts aimed at resuming negotiations between Washington and Tehran regarding the nuclear program. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously warned that the absence of an agreement could lead to serious consequences.
Following the news of the downed drone, global oil prices rose by more than $1 per barrel.
The Iranian delegation at the UN did not comment on the incident; however, the Tasnim agency reported that communication with the drone was lost in international waters, without specifying the reasons.
On the same day, Iranian boats and drones rapidly approached an American commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to seize it. The tanker continued on its way, receiving escort from an American warship.
The American aircraft carrier strike group plays an important role in strengthening the U.S. military presence in the Middle East following recent harsh actions by Iranian authorities against protesters.
Photo on the main page: Reuters / Mike Blake.
