Tehran, Iran –
Iranian security forces have discovered multiple clandestine drone manufacturing sites and drone-transport vehicles operating across several provinces inside the country. The announcement came from Saeed Montazerolmahdi, the official spokesperson for Iran’s national police, as reported by Iran’s Labour News Agency (ILNA).
14 Israeli Drones Reportedly Shot Down
According to Iranian police sources, a total of 14 Israeli drones have been intercepted and destroyed by Iranian defense systems. This marks one of the most significant drone interceptions in the ongoing Iran-Israel tensions.
Iranian Response and Casualties in Israel
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the aftermath of Iranian retaliatory strikes, stating that at least 24 Israeli citizens have been killed and more than 800 others injured. As a result, over 3,800 people have been evacuated from their homes to safer locations.
These attacks are being viewed as part of Iran’s broader military response following Israeli airstrikes that reportedly targeted Iranian personnel and infrastructure.
Tehran Claims First Successful Downing of Israeli Hermes 900 Drone
In a major development, Iranian forces claimed to have successfully downed an Israeli Hermes 900 UAV for the first time. The incident took place in the central Iranian city of Isfahan on Wednesday morning, as confirmed by the Iranian Army.
The Hermes 900, manufactured by Israeli defense company Elbit Systems, is considered one of Israel’s most advanced and destructive aerial weapons. It is widely used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes.
Wreckage Confirmed by State Media
Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB released video footage of the destroyed drone, stating it was used for surveillance missions. The footage showed the drone’s wreckage lying in an uninhabited area near Isfahan.
Additionally, images of the drone have been shared on social media platform X, clearly showing damage consistent with an aerial interception.
Background on the Hermes 900
The Hermes 900 is a long-endurance, multi-payload UAV capable of flying over 36 hours non-stop. It can carry air-to-surface missiles, electro-optic sensors, and electronic warfare equipment. Its loss is considered a significant blow to Israel’s aerial surveillance capabilities.
