Tehran Claims 35 Enemy Drones Destroyed Since Start of Escalating Conflict

Araweelo News Network [ Associated Online Agencies

TEHRAN (ANN)– Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reports that the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran has announced the destruction of six advanced “Hermes” drones within the past 24 hours, amid intensifying regional hostilities.
In its ninth official statement since the outbreak of the conflict, Iran’s Joint Air Defense Command of Khatam al-Anbia Air Defense Base said the unmanned aerial vehicles were intercepted and shot down across multiple provinces, including Isfahan, Kermanshah, Tabriz, Khuzestan, and the wider Tehran area.
According to the statement, a total of 35 advanced enemy drones have been targeted and destroyed since the beginning of the war. The operations were reportedly carried out by land-based defense units, air force fighter jets, and forces affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), operating under Iran’s integrated air defense network.
Escalating Regional Impact
The conflict has continued to widen, with significant international repercussions. Iran recently announced the closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a major global oil transit route, raising concerns in energy markets and among regional powers.
Tehran describes the current hostilities as a response to what it calls an act of aggression by the United States and Israel. Iranian authorities allege that the confrontation began following targeted strikes that killed senior Iranian leadership figures, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top military commanders — claims that have not been independently verified by international sources.
Iran Signals Prolonged Conflict
Meanwhile, Iran’s Ministry of Defense spokesperson stated that the country has prepared for a prolonged war.
“We have prepared for a very long war, and therefore it would be foolish to use our most effective weapons in the very beginning. The enemy has a limited stockpile and everyone is aware of this fact,” the spokesperson said.
Within what Tehran describes as its “legitimate response,” Iranian Armed Forces have launched missile and drone strikes against U.S. military installations in the region and targets in Israeli-controlled territories.
Rising Tensions
The escalation comes despite previously ongoing indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington. Analysts warn that continued military exchanges could further destabilize the Middle East and draw in additional regional and international actors.
Global attention remains focused on whether diplomatic channels can be reopened to prevent a broader regional war.

By Arraale M Jama Freelance Journalist and Human Rights
activist.

Araweelo News Network [ Associated Online Agencies