DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The U.S. military confirmed two casualties and one missing following an Iranian attack on a Jordanian military base, marking the first direct Iranian casualties since the conflict began.
The assault, involving drones and missiles, injured four others, who were hospitalized. Since the war’s onset, 16 U.S. service members have died and over 430 wounded.
Iran’s Supreme Leader issued a stern warning, referencing “unforgettable lessons” for U.S. actions against the Islamic Republic. President Donald Trump’s policies were dismissed as “worthless,” and Iran announced suspension of a interim ceasefire agreement.
The war’s focus on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil chokepoint, has escalated risks to civilians and infrastructure. Iran’s strikes on desalination plants and oil facilities in Kuwait underscored ongoing regional tensions.
Kuwait reported damage to a desalination plant and an oil facility from Iranian missiles, causing operational disruptions. Firefighters and workers were injured in subsequent blazes. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain also sounded air sirens amid active missile threats.
The Gulf Cooperation Council condemned the attacks as war crimes, targeting civilian infrastructure. U.S. Central Command claimed strikes on Iranian surveillance sites and logistics networks, while Iran accused the U.S. of violating the agreement by targeting power grids.
Iranian authorities reported 50 deaths and 500+ injuries from U.S. strikes in recent weeks. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping has granted Iran significant leverage in negotiations.
U.S. retribution includes naval blockades and targeted attacks on Iranian infrastructure, such as power plants and bridges. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts remain stalled as both sides escalate accusations.