Nothing seems to be stopping Iran. Despite unprecedented sanctions, Tehran continues to bolster its military capabilities. Even amidst concerns that newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump may impose stricter sanctions on Iran, the country remains undeterred. Instead, it has unveiled a powerful drone, raising alarm among Israel, a close ally of the West.
The influential Iranian news agency Mehr News reported the development.
According to the report, the Islamic Republic of Iran has introduced a drone named Gaza in honor of the 15-month-long war in the Palestinian Gaza Strip. The drone, designed for border security operations, has been developed and launched by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This information was released on Sunday, January 26.
An IRGC press statement revealed that the unmanned drone, with a range of 1,000 kilometers and a payload capacity of at least 500 kilograms, successfully hit eight test targets on Sunday.
Reports indicate that the Gaza drone weighs 3,100 kilograms and can fly at a speed of 350 kilometers per hour. It is capable of launching strikes up to 4,000 kilometers away, posing a significant threat to Israel, which falls within its range. Initial reports suggest the drone can carry up to 12 bombs simultaneously.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, and has resulted in the deaths of over 47,000 Palestinians. However, a ceasefire was implemented in the Gaza Strip on January 19, 2024. From the outset of the war, Iran has voiced unwavering support for Gaza, with the Gaza drone being seen as a symbol of that solidarity.