Jordan Endures Iranian Missile Strikes Amid Growing Anti-U.S. Sentiment
Iranian missile and drone attacks have hit Jordan, where U.S. forces are stationed, intensifying local anti-American feelings.
Almost half a year after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, the conflict has spilled over into Jordan, which borders Israel and hosts roughly 4,000 U.S. defense personnel. Iranian missile and drone salvos have struck Jordanian territory, including the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base near Azraq, where a THAAD anti-missile system was reportedly damaged and a July strike killed three American soldiers. Experts say the war has amplified pre-existing anti-American sentiment among Jordanians, with public criticism of the government’s hosting of U.S. forces becoming more vocal.
Nonetheless, the ruling family’s historic ties to the United States and substantial U.S. aid—over $1.5 billion annually—make a policy shift unlikely. Commentators note that while Jordan opposes certain U.S. policies in the region, its strategic partnership with Washington remains strong.
Why it matters
Jordan's exposure to Iranian attacks highlights the broader regional risks of the U.S.-Iran conflict and domestic backlash against foreign military presence.
How this story developed
- Jul 20 U.S. and Iran intensify air strikes over Strait of Hormuz, diplomacy stalls
- Aug 18 The 60‑day deadline for a U.S.–Iran deal expired without a settlement.
- Aug 18 Brent crude edged close to $92 a barrel after the United Arab Emirates issued a missile warning and President Donald Trump reiterated that talks with Iran were stalled.
- Aug 18 Trump opened back‑channel contact with the IRGC using former DNI Tulsi Gabbard as an intermediary.
- Aug 19 Only six vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, down from nine the day before, as shipowners wait for definitive guidance on reopening after the Iran war blockade.
- Aug 19 UAE announced a trade suspension with Iran after detecting two ballistic missiles.
- Aug 20 Iran announced a restructuring of senior military leaders and an update to its military doctrine to prioritize offensive operations.
- Aug 20 U.S. naval escorts have increased, moving roughly five million barrels per day in July, up from about four million in June.
- Aug 21 UAE ministry stressed a high‑alert posture after two Iranian missiles landed in its waters.
- Aug 21 Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the United States’ turn to economic pressure proves Washington cannot defeat Iran on the battlefield.
- Aug 21 Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for ending the conflict with the United States, saying Tehran can negotiate from a position of strength and that the world should recognize Iran’s claimed victory.
- Aug 21 Iran finalized a preferential trade agreement with Oman.
- Aug 22 President Pezeshkian publicly urged the United States to conclude hostilities.
- Aug 22 Oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has virtually ceased, with only four commodity ships recorded on Thursday.
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