Iran Attacks U.S. Forces in Jordan, Two Service Members Killed
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on Saturday that Iranian forces targeted U.S. military personnel in Jordan, resulting in the deaths of two service members and leaving one unaccounted for.
On Friday, it was confirmed that while responding to Iranian ballistic missile and drone strikes, two soldiers lost their lives. Additionally, four other service members were evacuated to a hospital in Jordan but were later released.
The announcement of the casualties was made in a statement shared on social media Saturday afternoon.
“On July 17, two U.S. service members in Jordan died while defending against Iranian attacks,” CENTCOM’s statement noted. “Moreover, one military member is currently missing in action.”
Reports indicate that at least two Iranian missiles struck the Axios Muwaffaq Salti Air Base. Videos surfacing online showed the aftermath, including substantial smoke billowing from the site. This incident marks the first American military fatalities in the ongoing conflict since March.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) reacted to the unfolding situation on Saturday afternoon.
“We send our prayers to the families of our fallen heroes, wishing a swift recovery for those injured and the safe return of the missing service members,” Johnson stated. “God bless the courageous men and women in uniform.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also acknowledged the loss, asserting that such sacrifices “only reinforce our determination.”
Meanwhile, Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei asserted that the U.S. had “repeatedly violated” a recently signed memorandum of understanding, describing the U.S. president’s signature as “completely worthless and lacking credibility.”
This situation arises amid ongoing tensions, as Washington and Tehran have seen a ceasefire agreement from mid-June fall apart, particularly after President Trump declared it “over” and reinstated a naval blockade on Iranian ports.
CENTCOM added that out of respect for the families involved, more information, including the identities of those who died, will be withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.
