AMMAN — Iran launched ballistic missiles toward U.S. forces in Jordan on Wednesday in what the U.S. military described as an attempted surprise attack, ending several days of relative calm in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran and raising fresh concerns over a broader regional escalation.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said multiple missiles were fired from Iran toward a U.S. military installation in Jordan, adding that all of the projectiles were successfully intercepted. The command said there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage and that U.S. forces remained on heightened alert.
A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss operational matters, confirmed the missiles targeted a U.S. base in Jordan. The official said the attack marked Iran's first direct ballistic missile strike against U.S. forces since President Donald Trump paused offensive operations against Iran in an effort to allow diplomatic contacts to continue.
Iranian authorities did not immediately issue a detailed public account of Wednesday's attack. Iranian state-affiliated outlets have previously maintained that U.S. military facilities used to support operations against Iran are legitimate military targets, though Reuters could not independently verify Tehran's position on the latest incident.
The missile launch came after several days during which neither side had announced major military action, following weeks of exchanges linked to tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and wider regional security. The renewed hostilities cast doubt on ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing the risk of direct confrontation.
Financial markets reacted to the renewed tensions, with oil prices rising amid concerns that further military escalation could threaten energy shipments through the Gulf. Analysts said investors were closely monitoring whether either side would pursue additional military action or return to negotiations.
Jordanian authorities did not immediately report any casualties or damage linked to the intercepted missiles. The Jordanian military has previously said it would continue to defend the kingdom's airspace and would not permit its territory to become a battlefield for regional conflict.
As of Wednesday, U.S. officials had announced no immediate retaliatory strikes directly tied to the missile launch, while CENTCOM said American forces remained at a high state of readiness as officials assessed the situation.
