Two fishermen went missing and two others were injured after an "enemy" drone struck their boats south of Qeshm Island, Iran's semi‑official Fars news agency reported on Saturday, according to Xinhua.
The incident occurred in the waters south of Qeshm Island, an area frequently used by local fishermen for daily trips. Fars news described the drone as an unspecified model, noting that it was a sudden, unprovoked strike that disrupted normal maritime activity.
Officials from the regional maritime authority were on scene when the bodies of the injured fishermen were transported to a local medical facility. Authorities confirmed that the victims suffered severe injuries to their limbs and had required emergency treatment before being stabilized.
While the two missing fishermen have not yet been located, search and rescue teams mobilized immediately under the direction of the Iranian coast guard. Deputies from the ministry of the Interior coordinated the operation, with resources from nearby ports and naval vessels dispatched to the search area.
Fars news stated that investigators are now attempting to identify the drone’s origin and the entity responsible for the attack. Initial reports suggest an “enemy” drone, but no specific group has claimed responsibility, and the regional authorities are reviewing intelligence feeds for possible links to hostile actors.
The attack comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, as neighboring countries and maritime stakeholders have repeatedly warned against increased military activities near crucial shipping lanes. Analysts indicate that such incidents could further destabilize the Gulf’s already volatile security situation.
Local fishermen’s unions have urged calm, noting that the maritime community remains on edge after the sudden attack. They requested better protection measures for small vessels that frequently operate in contested waters, especially during periods of heightened military exercise in the area.
The Iranian authorities’ investigation is ongoing, with officials promising to provide updates as more information becomes available. The incident is being closely monitored by both domestic and international observers concerned about maritime safety and regional stability.