Trump Vows Strong Retaliation Against Iran After Missile Attacks on US Forces in Iraq and Jordan

Following missile attacks on American forces in Iraq and Jordan overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday, US President Donald Trump declared in a Fox News interview that the US military will strike Iran hard and dismantle it. Early Wednesday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced joint strikes with the Saudi military targeting pro-Iranian militias in eastern Iraq. These actions were in response to over 30 drone attacks against US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure in the past 72 hours.

Hours earlier, the US military reported that Iran's Revolutionary Guards launched several ballistic missiles at a US base in Jordan. All missiles were successfully intercepted, and US forces remain alert and on high readiness. Jordanian sources confirmed to Reuters that five Iranian missiles were intercepted. The Revolutionary Guards also claimed to have attacked three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, though damage remains unclear.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently shared new intelligence with Trump regarding developments at Mount Hermon. Israeli officials noted a significant Iranian rehabilitation process aided by foreign countries, with full details to be presented to the US in the coming days. Trump downplayed the Mount Hermon issue, stating Netanyahu discusses Iran mainly to stay involved, and affirmed his knowledge of the situation.

Trump expressed a preference to avoid attacking Iranian power plants and bridges, emphasizing concern for Iran's 90 million citizens. He warned Iran that he could disable most of their infrastructure quickly if they fail to sign agreements. On the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said the US controls the area despite Iranian attempts to disrupt shipping with mines, and warned Iran against breaking deals.

Earlier reports indicated that Trump halted plans for significant escalation against Iran amid concerns over limited US missile interceptor stocks, including Patriot missiles. Israeli defense assessments suggest Washington has depleted much of its interceptor inventory, with only about half of Patriot missiles remaining and even fewer SM sea-based interceptors. Israel has reportedly tripled production of its Arrow 3 interceptors, though official statements on local stock levels have not been made.