Two United States service members have been killed while responding to an Iranian ballistic missile and drone attack in Jordan, with another service member reported missing, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed.
According to a statement released by CENTCOM on Saturday, the two American troops were killed in action on July 17 as U.S. and allied forces worked to defend against the Iranian assault. The command said the personnel were involved in defensive operations aimed at countering incoming threats from Iranian missiles and unmanned aerial systems.
CENTCOM did not disclose the exact location in Jordan where the attack occurred, nor did it provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The military command said investigations and operational assessments were ongoing as authorities continued to gather more information about the incident.
The attack marks a significant escalation involving U.S. forces stationed in the Middle East, where American troops have increasingly faced security challenges amid rising regional tensions and conflicts involving Iran and its allied groups.
CENTCOM also revealed that four other U.S. service members were injured during the attack and were transported to medical facilities in Jordan for treatment. The command said the injured personnel have since been released from hospital care and are recovering.
Additionally, several other American personnel were evaluated for minor injuries following the attack, but they have returned to their normal duties, according to the statement.
The identities of the two service members who lost their lives have not yet been released. CENTCOM said it was withholding their names until 24 hours after their families had been officially notified, in line with U.S. military procedures.
The deaths are expected to trigger renewed discussions in Washington over the safety of American troops deployed overseas, particularly in regions where tensions between the United States and Iran remain high.
U.S. forces in the Middle East have maintained defensive positions in several countries, including Jordan, as part of broader efforts to protect American personnel, support regional allies, and counter threats from hostile actors.
Jordan, a close U.S. partner in the Middle East, has previously hosted American military personnel involved in training, security cooperation, and regional defense operations. The country has also been positioned strategically amid growing instability across the region.
Military officials have not disclosed whether the attack directly targeted a U.S. installation or whether the service members were killed while supporting broader defensive operations. Further details are expected as CENTCOM completes its review of the incident.
The U.S. Department of Defense is expected to provide additional updates following notification of the families and completion of preliminary investigations.
The deaths of the two service members represent a serious loss for the U.S. military and highlight the continuing risks faced by American personnel operating in conflict-sensitive regions around the world.