The United States launched a two-hour wave of heavy retaliatory airstrikes against Iran on Thursday after Tehran fired ballistic missiles at American military bases in Jordan, significantly escalating the ongoing conflict between the two countries.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation targeted dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) facilities, including command centres, missile and drone sites, coastal surveillance systems, and maritime defence positions. The US said the strikes were intended to degrade Iran’s military capabilities and deter further attacks on American personnel and regional allies.

The strikes came after Iran launched ballistic missiles at US bases in Jordan. American officials said the missiles were intercepted and there were no reported US casualties. President Donald Trump vowed a forceful response, declaring that Washington would respond decisively to attacks on its forces in the region.

Iranian authorities reported explosions in several areas and acknowledged damage at military sites, while local media also reported casualties from some of the targeted locations. The latest exchange has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, with tensions already rising across the Middle East following recent military confrontations involving Iran, the United States, and their regional allies.

Despite the renewed fighting, US officials said diplomatic channels remain open, though analysts warn that continued retaliation by either side could further destabilise the region and threaten international energy supplies and key maritime trade routes.