US drones downed, 3 tankers exploded in Hormuz, says IRGC

Three tankers exploded while transiting the Strait of Hormuz without permission from Iranian authorities, said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The explosion occurred after the tankers hit naval mines, IRGC said. The vessels had reportedly turned off their geolocation tracking and were sailing in the southern part of the strait.

Iran has repeatedly cautioned against unauthorised passage through the strategic waterway.

US drone shot down, Iranian soldier killed in clash

According to Tasnim news agency, the IRGC said it brought down two US drones over the coastal region of Bandar Khamir, identifying them as Low-cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (Lucas) models.

The news agency further said a member of the Iranian ground forces was killed and another injured in clashes with hostile groups in the southeast region of the country.

While one attacker was killed, a second was wounded and later fled the scene, Tasmin added.

Iran to train 1 million paramilitary volunteers

Iran opened its third military training center in Tehran on Monday as authorities announced plans to train 1 million paramilitary volunteers nationwide, amid fears of renewed conflict.

Members of the Basij, a paramilitary force affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, attended the inauguration, the semiofficial ISNA news agency reported.

“Starting this week, across the country 1,500 training bases will start working in all cities and towns, and will aim for training 1 million sacrificial volunteers,” said Ali Kowsari, the Basij’s deputy head for training.

Two similar centers previously opened in Tehran in August and September.

The “Janfada,” or “sacrificials,” campaign began registering volunteers in March and includes military training, emergency relief and logistical support. Courses cover urban defense, weapons handling, air defense, rescue operations, firefighting and navigation.

Since the war began in February, Iranian authorities have mobilised supporters through military parades and exercises.

China calls for dialogue to resolve disputes

Amid prospects of renewed US attacks on Iran, China called on all the parties to resolve their disputes through dialogue and negotiations.

“China believes that military means do not help resolve problems and will only exacerbate tensions and escalate the situation,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said during a regular briefing in Beijing.

Earlier, China announced that it will send a special envoy to Iran, Oman and Saudi Arabia in early to mid-November as part of Beijing’s efforts to promote regional peace.

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