Iran has claimed responsibility for a missile and drone strike targeting a United States military base in Jordan, marking another escalation in the widening conflict between Tehran and Washington that is raising fears of a broader regional war.
According to Iranian state media, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it launched ballistic missiles and drones at the Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan, describing the attack as part of the first phase of its retaliation against recent US strikes on Iranian military facilities.
The IRGC said the base serves as a key operational hub for US military forces in the region. Iranian media reported that the strike targeted military infrastructure at the installation, although there was no immediate independent verification of the extent of the damage or casualties.
The attack comes as hostilities between the United States and Iran continue to intensify across the Middle East.
In addition to the reported strike in Jordan, Iranian media said military operations were also directed at US military facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait, while Tehran warned that further retaliation could follow if American military operations continue.
The latest developments follow another wave of US airstrikes targeting Iranian military assets after President Donald Trump ordered renewed military action against Tehran. The exchange has effectively shattered hopes that a recently announced ceasefire and diplomatic understanding between the two countries would hold.
Jordan has not immediately confirmed the Iranian claims. Earlier in the conflict, Jordanian authorities said their air defence systems had intercepted multiple missiles and drones entering the country’s airspace, stressing that the kingdom would continue to protect its sovereignty from any external attack.
The widening conflict has heightened concerns over the security of key Gulf states hosting US military assets and critical energy infrastructure.
Financial markets reacted sharply to the escalating tensions, with Brent crude oil prices surging amid fears of prolonged disruptions to oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes. Investors also shifted towards traditional safe-haven assets as concerns grew over the potential economic fallout from a wider regional conflict.
