The Yemeni Armed Forces announced on Wednesday the successful downing of a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone conducting what it described as “hostile operations” over Al-Jawf Governorate in northern Yemen.

This latest strike brings the total number of MQ-9 drones brought down by Yemen to 18 since the Israeli aggression on Gaza began in late 2023.

In an official statement, the Yemeni Armed Forces condemned the latest wave of U.S. aerial assaults, calling them part of an ongoing campaign of "aggression and massacres" targeting the Yemeni people. The statement noted that the drone was intercepted using a locally manufactured missile, highlighting the growing strength and capability of Yemen’s indigenous defense systems.

“With the help of Allah Almighty, our air defenses were able to shoot down an American MQ-9 drone while it was carrying out hostile missions in the airspace of Al-Jawf Governorate,” the statement read.

This marks the third U.S. drone brought down in just ten days, showcasing the consistency and precision of Yemen’s air defense forces despite relentless bombardments.

The Yemeni Armed Forces reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Palestinian resistance and the people of Gaza, linking their military actions to what they termed the battle of “Promised Victory and Holy Jihad.”

“Our operations will not cease until the aggression against Gaza stops and the blockade is lifted,” the statement declared, underscoring Yemen’s principled stance against Zionist and imperialist aggression.

The statement also reaffirmed Yemen’s readiness to confront any foreign violation of its sovereignty, pledging to continue defensive operations with resolve and responsibility.

As American and Zionist forces continue their attacks across the region, Yemen has emerged as a key front in the broader Axis of Resistance, sending a clear message that the era of unchallenged U.S. dominance in regional skies is coming to an end. (ILKHA)