Iranian Shahed-129 Drone Completes Mission in International Waters Amid Reports of US Intervention

TEHRAN, Feb. 4: An Iranian Armed Forces’ surveillance drone successfully completed its reconnaissance mission in international waters despite reports that U.S. forces targeted a similar drone, Iranian media reported on Tuesday.

According to Fars News Agency, the primary role of the Shahed-129 drone is to monitor military activity in regions adjacent to Iran, with real-time data transmitted to ground command centers. An informed source speaking to Tasnim News Agency confirmed that the drone’s mission was legal and routine, involving reconnaissance, monitoring, and imaging in international waters.

“The Shahed-129 was conducting its standard and lawful mission,” the source said, adding that surveillance footage was successfully transmitted to the command center before communication was lost. The cause of the disconnection is under investigation, and further details are expected to be released once finalized.

Earlier, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that it had targeted an Iranian drone near the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier to “protect” its troops, emphasizing that the action was in self-defense and not intended to escalate tensions.

The incident comes amid heightened U.S. military presence in the Persian Gulf and West Asia region, coupled with repeated threats by President Donald Trump of potential action against Iran.

Iranian officials, including top military commanders, have issued stern warnings in response. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei reiterated on Saturday that any U.S.-initiated war against Iran would escalate into a regional conflict. He emphasized that threats and military displays would not intimidate the Iranian nation.