Iran Launches Hundreds of Missile Strikes Against Bases in Jordan

Iran launched hundreds of drone and missile attacks against military bases in Jordan, specifically targeting installations that host United States forces. The strikes focused on sites such as the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, a critical logistics hub for American combat aircraft. U.S. air defenses intercepted most of the incoming projectiles.

Jordan maintains its security alliance with Washington despite the attacks, relying on a 2021 defense-cooperation agreement that grants the U.S. access to 12 military sites. The kingdom also depends on U.S. grants for approximately 8% of its annual budget. The attacks follow a recent U.S. military decision to relocate personnel from Iraq to Jordan to increase distance from Iranian missiles while continuing operations against the Islamic State.

Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi defended the nation's sovereignty during a visit to Vienna, stating that Jordan was not a party to the war. Safadi claimed that Iran had been attacking Jordan and other regional countries long before the current conflict began. The strikes occur as the kingdom manages a slumping economy, a refugee crisis, and volatility in the neighboring West Bank.