The United States carried out fresh airstrikes against Iran early on Sunday after two American service members were killed in Iranian attacks in Jordan. The operation was ordered by US President Donald Trump, marking another major escalation in the growing conflict between the two countries.
Why did the US launch fresh strikes on Iran?
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes were launched just hours after Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks targeted US forces in Jordan. Two American service members were killed, while another remains missing in action. Four others were injured but were later discharged from hospitals in Jordan. The names of the deceased personnel have not yet been released as their families are still being informed.
CENTCOM said the latest operation was aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The US military also targeted forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Washington blames for the deadly attack in Jordan.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the deaths of the two American troops would strengthen the country’s resolve. He described their sacrifice as a reason for the US to continue responding firmly to Iranian actions.
Iranian media reported that the US strikes hit areas near the southern port city of Sirik and locations near Hajiabad. According to Iran’s Mehr News Agency, no casualties have been reported from those attacks so far.
What has Iran said after the latest US attack?
Meanwhile, Iran signalled that the conflict could become even more serious. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned that the United States would face “unforgettable lessons” from Iran and its allies. He also accused Washington of repeatedly violating agreements between the two countries and criticised President Donald Trump’s credibility.
The latest escalation comes after a ceasefire between the two sides collapsed last week, leading to renewed military exchanges. The Strait of Hormuz has once again become a major flashpoint, as nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the strategic waterway.
First published on: Jul 19, 2026 07:09 AM IST
Get Breaking News First and Latest Updates from India and around the world on News24. Follow News24 on Facebook, Twitter.
End of Article
About the Author
Shivam Verma
Shivam Verma is a Chief-Sub-Editor at News24. A postgraduate diploma holder in Integrated Journalism from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai, Shivam focuses on international affairs, diplomacy, defence, and politics. Beyond the newsroom, he is passionate about football, both playing and watching, and enjoys travelling to explore new places and cuisines.
Read More
Related Story
