This incident marks the 12th time Yemeni forces have downed an MQ-9 drone over the country.

The United States Department of Defense has acknowledged the incident and stated it is currently investigating but has not released further details regarding the drone’s mission or the circumstances surrounding its loss.

MQ-9 drones, primarily used for surveillance and strike operations, have frequently operated in Yemeni airspace amid ongoing regional conflicts.

The incident underscores continued tensions in the region, where both Yemeni forces and international actors remain active in complex and often contested airspace. (ILKHA)