Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a military institution, claimed on Friday that its air defenses destroyed a US MQ-1 drone over Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC further stated on Saturday that it had shot down a US MQ-9 drone over the same island, according to Iranian state media.
The United States has not yet provided immediate confirmation of either of Iran’s claims regarding the downed drones.
Background
- On November 2, 2026, US officials confirmed airstrikes on Iran's Qeshm Island, describing them as "defensive" actions in response to Iranian surface-to-air missile activity threatening US aircraft.
- Iran's state media reported explosions on Qeshm Island on November 2, 2026.
- Qatar presented a draft peace plan to Iran on October 30, 2026, but a senior Iranian official rejected the proposals as unacceptable, stating Tehran would maintain its nuclear stance.
- On November 3, 2026, Qatar stated that both the United States and Iran were reviewing proposals presented by mediators.
Missile strikes reported on Qeshm Island
Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported on Saturday that initial reports indicated two missiles had struck Qeshm Island. Iran’s state news agency IRNA, citing local witnesses, said two projectiles hit the Suza area of Qeshm Island after an aircraft was heard overhead.
There is no official information available yet on possible damage from these reported missile strikes.
Qatar denies failed peace talks
Meanwhile, Qatar’s International Media Office, a Qatari government office, denied circulating reports on Saturday that the United States and Iran had failed to reach an agreement to end their war, describing these allegations as false and misleading. The Qatari prime minister affirmed that both sides continue to work toward an agreement, and Qatar’s mediation efforts are ongoing in close coordination with Washington and Tehran.
Why it matters for Nepal
Nepal maintains a Consulate General in Tehran, Iran, which provides services to Nepali citizens, including visa processing, passport renewal, assistance in legal or medical emergencies, travel alerts, security updates, and aid to citizens detained abroad.
