Jordan intercepts 4 Iranian missiles after explosions rock Aqaba

Jordan's armed forces said Wednesday they intercepted four Iranian missiles over the kingdom after air defense systems detected six projectiles launched from Iran, as explosions echoed across the southern port city of Aqaba and warning sirens sounded over the strategic Red Sea coastline.

Air defense engagement

A military source told the state-run Petra news agency that air defense units engaged the missiles immediately after they entered Jordanian airspace from the east. Four projectiles were intercepted and destroyed over the kingdom, the source said, while the remaining two fell in remote, uninhabited desert areas without causing casualties or property damage to local infrastructure.

The military added that the kingdom's airspace remains under continuous operational monitoring since the incident occurred. The agency did not specify exact locations for the intercepted or fallen missiles beyond confirming they posed no threat to populated areas.

Civilian impact and flight diversions

Jordanian media reported that explosions were heard in Aqaba following the warning sirens that alerted residents to the potential missile attack. Israeli news outlet Ynet reported that an Arkia flight from Tel Aviv to Eilat altered its course after explosions were heard from the direction of Jordan, while another flight from Abu Dhabi to Tel Aviv was delayed while airborne over the region amid the security alert.