Two US service members killed, one missing in Iranian missile attack on Jordan base
The attack on Muwaffaq Salti Air Base marks the first American fatalities since President Trump declared the ceasefire over and the US began nightly strikes on Iran.
Attack on Jordan base
On Friday, July 17, Iranian ballistic missiles and drones struck Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, a facility used by US and coalition forces. Two American service members were killed and one remains missing, US Central Command announced on Saturday. The troops were actively defending against the incoming fire when they were hit. Jordan's military reported intercepting 10 Iranian missiles that entered its airspace overnight, and said no damage occurred on Jordanian territory. The Wall Street Journal published a satellite image of the base from February, underscoring its strategic role.
Casualties and medical response
Centcom said four other US service members were medically evacuated to hospitals in Jordan and have since been discharged. Others who suffered minor injuries returned to duty. The command stated it would retain additional information until 24 hours after next of kin are notified. In a separate disclosure to Fox News, Centcom confirmed that at least 13 US service members have been injured over the past week amid the intensifying conflict, all of whom survived.
Broader conflict and US strikes
The attack occurred as the US military conducted its seventh consecutive night of strikes on Iran, following President Donald Trump's declaration that the temporary ceasefire was "over". The BBC reported that the strikes have targeted Iranian positions, and both sides have been hitting a wider range of targets across the Gulf region. The fatalities are the first American combat deaths since the latest escalation began, marking a significant turn in the weeklong exchange.
- President Trump declares temporary ceasefire with Iran 'over', US begins nightly strikes.
- US military launches first of seven consecutive nights of strikes on Iranian targets.
- Iran attacks Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan with ballistic missiles and drones, killing two US troops and leaving one missing.
- Centcom announces casualties; four evacuated, others injured. Jordan confirms intercepting 10 missiles.
Iran's claims and US denial
Iran asserted that it had attacked a US base in Syria, claiming to have captured and killed American troops there. Centcom denied the claim, telling Fox News that no such event occurred. Meanwhile, multiple US officials told CBS News on condition of anonymity that Iran struck at least two bases in Jordan this week, indicating a broader pattern of attacks beyond the Friday incident.
What's next
Centcom has not released the identity of the missing service member or the full damage assessment. The US continues its nightly strikes, and the potential for further Iranian retaliation remains high. The Pentagon is expected to provide more details after family notifications are complete.
