Iran’s ultimate bargaining chip on display: Downing US Reaper & scaring off F-35 after Hormuz attack

Iran’s IRGC has claimed it shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone and opened fire on an F-35 fighter jet and an RQ-4 surveillance drone over the Gulf region, dramatically escalating tensions after reported U.S.-Israeli strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran says the F-35 retreated after coming under Iranian fire, while warning it reserves the right to respond to any ceasefire violations. The escalation unfolded as Iranian negotiators arrived in Doha for peace talks and Marco Rubio insisted diplomacy was still possible. Meanwhile, oil markets reacted nervously amid fears that renewed clashes could threaten global shipping routes through the vital Hormuz chokepoint.