US launches fresh airstrikes on Iran after attack on American troops in Jordan
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The US launched new airstrikes against Iran, targeting its ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The strikes are retaliation for an attack on American troops in Jordan that killed two service members.
- The operation escalates the conflict between the US and Iran, with Tehran yet to comment.
The United States has initiated a new series of airstrikes targeting Iran, aiming to diminish Tehran's capacity to threaten maritime traffic through the vital Strait of Hormuz. The military stated the operation serves as retaliation for a recent attack on American troops stationed in Jordan, which resulted in the deaths of two U.S. service members.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the strikes began on Friday evening, ordered by President Donald Trump. "The strikes are designed to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and swiftly punish Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces who launched attacks against American service members in Jordan last night," CENTCOM reported via X.
This latest military action marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. CENTCOM indicated the targets include Iranian military assets associated with threats to shipping lanes and specifically the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Washington holds responsible for the assault in Jordan. The attack in Jordan involved Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeting Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, where American and partner forces were present. CENTCOM confirmed two American service members died in the incident, one is missing, and four were medically evacuated. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released pending family notification.
The U.S. military has not specified the locations of the latest strikes or provided an initial assessment of damage. Iran has not yet issued a public statement regarding the operation.
Today at 6 pm ET, US forces began launching new airstrikes against Iran at the Commander in Chief's direction. The strikes are designed to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and swiftly punish Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces who launched attacks against American service members in Jordan last night.
Originally published by Times of India. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.