The Pentagon announced on 18/7 that two soldiers were killed and one was missing in Jordan after a series of missile and drone attacks by Iran. Four other soldiers were taken to hospitals in Jordan but were later discharged, according to US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees Washington's military operations in the Middle East.
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US fighter jets participated in the strike against Iran on 17/7. *Photo: AFP* |
In response, CENTCOM announced on the same day that US forces had conducted a new wave of airstrikes to "punish Iran". These strikes began at 10:00 PM GMT on 18/7 (5:00 AM on 19/7 Hanoi time). CENTCOM stated on X that the airstrikes were conducted to "further degrade Iran's ability to threaten maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz and to swiftly punish the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for attacking US soldiers in Jordan".
Iranian news agencies Fars and Tasnim simultaneously reported US attacks in Sirik, a port located on the Strait of Hormuz in southern Iran.
Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei condemned the attacks, stating that they "once again prove to everyone that the US President's signature is worthless". He warned, "The US seeks to instigate war and must bear the most severe consequences. They should know that Iran and the Axis of Resistance have unforgettable lessons for them," referring to armed groups backed by Tehran in the region.
The recent escalation follows a temporary ceasefire signed by the US and Iran in mid-June, which had brought three weeks of peace to the Gulf region. However, renewed tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz led to a resumption of hostilities in recent days.
US President Donald Trump expressed sorrow over the incident, telling NewsNation on 18/7 that the deaths of the two US soldiers were "very sad". He added, "We are very sorry to see that happen. They sacrificed in service to our country." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed this sentiment on X, stating that "their sacrifice only strengthens our resolve."
In light of the ongoing conflict, the US Department of State issued a global warning, urging Americans, particularly those in the Middle East, to "exercise extreme caution". A similar warning was last issued in March.
Thanh Tam (According to AFP, CNN, Al Jazeera)
