First U.S. Troops Killed by Direct Iranian Attack Since War Began

Two American service members were killed and another remains missing after Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeted forces in Jordan. The deaths mark the first U.S. military fatalities caused by a direct Iranian attack since the conflict began in February.

American Troops Killed Defending Against Iranian Attack

Two U.S. service members were killed in action in Jordan on July 17 while American and partner forces defended against an Iranian ballistic missile and drone attack, according to U.S. Central Command.

One additional American service member remains missing. Four others were evacuated to hospitals in Jordan for medical treatment and have since been discharged. Personnel evaluated for minor injuries have returned to duty.

The attack marks a major escalation: These are the first U.S. troops killed by a direct Iranian attack since the war began in February.

“On July 17, two U.S. service members in Jordan were killed in action as U.S. Central Command and partner forces defended against Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks,” CENTCOM said.

CENTCOM has not identified the exact location of the attack. Reports indicate that an American air base in Jordan may have been targeted, but that detail has not been officially confirmed.

Iran Expands Attacks Across the Region

The deadly strike came as fighting between the United States and Iran intensified across the Middle East. American forces have reportedly conducted repeated strikes against Iranian military infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has responded by targeting American forces and facilities in Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and other U.S.-aligned countries in the region.

Missile threats have triggered air-defense systems in several countries, while attacks in Kuwait reportedly damaged energy and civilian infrastructure and temporarily disrupted airport operations.

A Clear Red Line

The killing of American troops by Iranian forces represents a dangerous new stage in the conflict. Iran is no longer relying only on proxy terror groups to attack U.S. interests. It is now directly targeting American service members with missiles and drones.

The United States has the right and responsibility to defend its forces, protect its allies and hold the Iranian regime accountable for attacks on Americans.

CENTCOM said the identities of the fallen service members will be withheld until their families have been notified.