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US troops killed in Jordan as Washington vows to 'swiftly punish' Iran amid fears of wider war

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated dramatically after a drone attack killed two US service members in Jordan, prompting immediate US retaliation and warnings of further action against Iran.

By World Brief · 2026-07-18
US troops killed in Jordan as Washington vows to 'swiftly punish' Iran amid fears of wider war

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The United States has reportedly launched retaliatory airstrikes against Iran, specifically targeting its Revolutionary Guard and infrastructure within the country, following an attack in Jordan that killed two US service members and left one missing. These strikes mark a significant escalation in tensions, with reports indicating Iran has vowed strong retaliation and has launched its own attacks against US bases in Kuwait and several US-allied nations across the Middle East.

The increased hostilities are occurring amid a broader conflict, described as an "Iran war," focused on control of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil transit route. An earlier interim deal aimed at de-escalating the situation has reportedly collapsed, leading to a widening conflict that has caused civilian casualties and infrastructure damage in the Gulf region.

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