Nairobi: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) announced the downing of a US MQ-9 drone over the southwestern city of Ahvaz, as reported by Iran's state-run broadcaster IRIB. The incident marks a significant development amidst escalating tensions between the two nations.

According to Anadolu Agency, there has been no immediate response from US officials regarding the Iranian claim. The situation further intensified with an Iranian military statement indicating that a cruise missile, allegedly fired by US forces, was intercepted by air defenses in western Iran. Specific details on this interception have not been disclosed.

Recent days have seen heightened hostilities as the US has reportedly increased its attacks on Iran. In retaliation, Tehran has targeted facilities and bases it accuses of being used by the US military in various regional countries. This exchange of fire occurs in spite of a memorandum of understanding, brokered by Pakistan in June, which aimed to cease hostilities and secure a lasting peace agreement between Washington and Tehran.