AMMAN / TEHRAN — In a major escalation of Middle East tensions, Iran launched a barrage of over 20 ballistic missiles targeting key military installations housing U.S. forces in Jordan during the overnight hours of September 8–9, according to open-source intelligence reports.
The strikes specifically targeted the Al-Azraq Air Base and Muwaffaq Salti Air Base. Military sources indicate that several of the incoming Iranian ballistic missiles were equipped with cluster munition warheads designed to maximize area damage.
Air Defenses Engaged
Jordanian air defense systems actively engaged the incoming barrage, deploying dozens of Patriot surface-to-air interceptors. Jordanian military authorities claim to have successfully intercepted at least 18 of the ballistic missiles.
The strikes appeared intended for maintenance hangars housing high-value aircraft, including U.S. and allied F-35, F-16, and F-15 fighter jets stationed at the facilities.
Strategic Context and Escalation Risk
Tehran claimed responsibility for the strike, framing it as a direct retaliation for U.S. military actions in the Strait of Hormuz on September 8, when American forces struck several Iranian oil tankers following prolonged maritime confrontation.
Casualty figures and the exact extent of structural damage at the airbases remain unverified, with officials maintaining operational security over the impact sites. Defense analysts anticipate an immediate military response from Washington targeting Iranian assets along the critical maritime choke point in the Strait of Hormuz.
