An Iranian ballistic missile launched at a U.S. military base in Jordan has struck a barracks, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers.
The Wall Street Journal reported on July 20, citing U.S. officials, that the missile hit the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base on July 17, where U.S. troops were living and sleeping in modular accommodations.
Three Iranian missiles fell on the base over a 24-hour period. The first missile struck the base's gym, prompting alarms that sent soldiers to bunkers. While some were injured during the evacuation, there were no fatalities at that time.
Hours later, a second missile hit an empty aircraft hangar. The third missile struck the container-style barracks where soldiers were sleeping. Although alarms sounded again, not all soldiers were able to reach the bunkers.
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that Second Lieutenant Tyler Pihan and Private Isabella Gonzalez were killed in the attack. Additionally, unidentified remains were found at the scene, and authorities are investigating. One U.S. service member is currently missing.
It remains unclear whether the deceased soldiers were inside the barracks at the time of the attack or were hit while evacuating. There is also no evidence yet that Iran intentionally targeted the U.S. accommodations.
The Wall Street Journal noted that the penetration of three missiles through the defense system highlights significant challenges in protecting the approximately 50,000 U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East from Iranian missile and drone attacks.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that while most missiles were intercepted, one managed to breach the defense system, leading to tragic consequences.
On July 20, President Donald Trump warned that Iran would pay a heavy price for each U.S. soldier killed, signaling potential retaliation. Following the attack, U.S. forces also conducted additional airstrikes against Iran.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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