Jordan intercepts 20 missiles fired from Iran toward airbase

Jordanian air defense systems and Royal Jordanian Air Force aircraft intercepted and shot down 20 missiles launched from Iran toward the Azraq area — which hosts a major airbase — in Zarqa governorate early Thursday, with military officials confirming that debris fell without causing casualties or material damage, according to an army statement. Engineering teams subsequently secured the remnants to ensure they contained no explosives, a responsible military source at the General Command of the Jordanian Armed Forces-Arab Army said. The interception comes amid rapidly escalating tensions following US strikes on southern Iran and subsequent Iranian attacks targeting American military assets across the region.

Tehran claims retaliation against US bases

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it targeted a base hosting American F-35, F-15, and F-16 fighter jets in Jordan, describing the attack as direct retaliation for US strikes on Iranian territory. The force also announced strikes on 18 major US military targets at the Ali Al Salem and Ahmad Al Jaber bases in Kuwait, along with the Sheikh Isa base in Bahrain, targeting Patriot systems, communications facilities and the US Fifth Fleet, according to military statements. The attacks continue despite a ceasefire agreed in April to halt the war that began on February 28.

Trump warns Iran will 'pay the price'

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Iran has taken too long to negotiate a deal and will have to "pay the price." The warning comes as talks since the April ceasefire have focused on ending the war that began on February 28, unblocking the Strait of Hormuz, and addressing Iran’s nuclear program. Washington and Tehran have traded strikes repeatedly despite diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting agreement.