ASIATODAY.ID, ARABIAN SEA – Tensions between the United States and Iran flared after the US military shot down an Iranian drone that reportedly approached the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln “aggressively” in the Arabian Sea, citing US officials.
The Iranian Shahed-139 drone was moving toward the carrier with “unclear intent,” according to the US military. The incident comes as a US armada led by the Abraham Lincoln positions itself in the region, coinciding with ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran.
“An F-35C fighter jet from Abraham Lincoln shot down the Iranian drone in self-defense to protect the carrier and personnel on board,” said US Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, spokesperson for US Central Command. No American personnel were harmed in the incident.
Market Impact and Diplomatic Stakes
News of the drone strike sent oil prices surging over $1 per barrel. Meanwhile, negotiations between US and Iranian teams were initially scheduled for Friday, but Tehran reportedly requested changes to the venue and format. Axios reporter Barak Ravid noted that Iran seeks talks focused solely on nuclear issues, avoiding topics like missiles and regional proxy groups, which remain priorities for other states in the Middle East.
Earlier this week, Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Jarida reported that interventions by Moscow and Ankara had reduced the likelihood of a US military strike on Iran, creating a window for diplomatic engagement. Russia continues to insist that the Iranian nuclear issue must be resolved through political and diplomatic channels.
Iran Signals Willingness to Negotiate
In Tehran, President Masoud Pezeshkian instructed Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to prepare for “fair and equitable” negotiations with the US, provided the environment is free of threats and unreasonable expectations.
Pezeshkian emphasized that discussions should adhere to principles of dignity, prudence, and national interest.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei added that high-level contacts with neighboring countries aim to preserve regional stability despite destabilizing actions from the US and Israel.
The US has not officially confirmed talks with Iran, though former President Donald Trump expressed hope for a deal after previously threatening Iran with military action.
“We are talking to Iran, and if we could work something out, that would be great,” Trump told reporters.
Turning Point or New Crisis?
The drone strike underscores how the Gulf and Arabian Sea remain tinderboxes of potential conflict, even as diplomatic channels attempt to open. International observers warn that any military escalation could derail fragile nuclear negotiations and put additional pressure on global energy markets. (AT Network)
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