Unidentified drones have been spotted flying over a high-security US Army base in Washington, where top officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth live, raising fresh security concerns amid the ongoing war with Iran, Washington Post reported on Wednesday, citing three people ​briefed on the situation.
According to officials, multiple drones were detected over Fort Lesley J. McNair, a key military installation located in the US capital. The sightings took place at least once in the past 10 days, with several drones seen in a single night.
Authorities have not yet been able to identify where the drones came from or who was operating them. Officials briefed on the matter said the origin of the drones remains unknown, adding to concerns about a possible security breach.
The incident comes at a time when the United States is on high alert due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The US and Israel have been carrying out strikes, and there are fears of retaliation, including through drone attacks.
Following the drone sightings, security has been increased at the base. The issue was serious enough to be discussed at a high-level meeting at the White House, where officials reviewed possible responses, said the report.
The presence of drones over such a sensitive location has raised alarm because Fort McNair houses senior government officials and is considered one of the most secure military sites in Washington. Reports suggest that authorities even considered relocating Rubio and Hegseth as a precaution.
The development highlights growing concerns around drone threats. In recent weeks, drone attacks linked to Iran have targeted US military sites in the Middle East, showing how such low-cost weapons can bypass traditional defence systems.
While there is no confirmation that the drones over Washington are linked to Iran, officials are treating the incident seriously given the current geopolitical situation, added the report.
Investigations are ongoing, and security agencies are working to track the source and assess the level of threat. The incident has once again exposed vulnerabilities in counter-drone systems, even in highly protected areas.
Also Read: Pentagon Eyes Over $200 Billion Funding Request For Iran Conflict: Report
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