Iran has reportedly increased missile and drone attacks on US military bases in Jordan. The move is seen as Tehran's attempt to increase pressure on Washington and prevent US military involvement from expanding.
The weekend attack on Muwaffaq Salti Air Base killed two US service members, while another was reportedly suspected of being killed. The incident was the first US military death due to enemy attack since a ceasefire between the two countries was announced in April, which has now reportedly been canceled.
In addition to Muwaffaq Salti, Iran also launched an attack on King Faisal Air Base, which also houses US troops. Another airport in Jordan was also targeted, causing damage to several US Army Black Hawk helicopters.
However, US Central Command (CENTCOM) refused to comment on the extent of damage suffered from the attack.
The repeated attacks on Jordan come as the administration of President Donald Trump expands air operations in Iran by targeting bridges and other strategic infrastructure.
In response, the US has reportedly sent more military assets to the Middle East, including F-16 fighter jets from Germany, F-35 stealth aircraft from the United Kingdom and aerial refueling aircraft to bolster its military presence in the region.
Jordan has emerged as one of the main bases of US military operations in the Middle East. Its strategic location and close security ties with Washington have made the country increasingly important for American military operations.
At the same time, Jordan's close ties with the US have also made it a key target for Iran. The country receives around US$1.45 billion in economic and military aid annually from Washington under an agreement signed in 2022.
Although Jordan is further from Iran than some Gulf states, its smaller military capabilities make it more vulnerable to continued attacks.
These developments indicate that the conflict between the US and Iran is widening, with Jordan now one of the main battlegrounds that has the potential to further escalate tensions in the Middle East.
