Two U.S. service members were killed in an Iranian ballistic missile attack on the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan on Saturday.
The attack also left several others injured, and one service member is currently missing. This marks the first time U.S. troops have been killed since fighting resumed two weeks ago, bringing the total number of U.S. service members killed in the conflict with Iran to 16.
According to Axios, the airbase, which hosts U.S. troops and fighter jets, was hit by at least two Iranian ballistic missiles. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the deaths and reported that American and partner forces were defending against Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks at the time. CENTCOM also stated that four U.S. service members were medically evacuated to local hospitals but have since been discharged, while several others received minor injuries and returned to duty.
The Pentagon reported that the attack is part of ongoing hostilities between the U.S. and Iran, which resumed after a fragile ceasefire collapsed. The conflict, which began on February 28 when the U.S. and Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran, has seen Iran carrying out attacks on vessels and launching missiles and drones at countries hosting U.S. bases.
As reported by NBC News, the recent strikes are the deadliest on American personnel since the two countries signed a ceasefire agreement. The U.S. has responded with near-daily strikes against Iran, targeting surveillance sites, weaponry, and other military facilities.
The identities of the fallen service members will be withheld until 24 hours after the next of kin have been notified. The incident is likely to prompt a strong response from the Trump administration as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
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