IRGC claims it shot down MQ-9 Reaper drone, fired at F-35 and intel drone over Iranian airspace

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced Tuesday that it had downed an MQ-9 Reaper drone after detecting an unidentified aircraft entering Iranian airspace in the Gulf region. The IRGC also claimed to have fired upon an F-35 fighter jet and an RQ4 intelligence collection drone, forcing them to leave Iranian territory.

These assertions come shortly after the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported conducting "self-defense" strikes in southern Iran overnight. According to CENTCOM spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins, these strikes targeted boats attempting to lay mines and missile launch sites, aimed at protecting U.S. troops from Iranian threats.

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US forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.

The IRGC, in a statement reported by state media, declared its "legitimate and definite" right to retaliate against any future ceasefire violations by the United States. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, was observed with vessels anchored nearby on May 25, 2026, highlighting the strategic importance of the region.

This developing situation underscores the ongoing tensions and military activities in the Persian Gulf. Both sides are presenting their actions as defensive measures, but the claims and counterclaims indicate a volatile environment with the potential for further escalation.

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The IRGC added that it reserved the "legitimate and definite" right to retaliate against any ceasefire violations by the US, state media reported.