US Central Command said Iran fired a series of ballistic missiles at a US base in Jordan late Tuesday, in what it described as a "surprise attack." All the missiles were intercepted, according to CENTCOM, and Jordan's military said its own air defences separately shot down five missiles launched from Iran. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said its air force had targeted the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base and a CENTCOM facility in Jordan, and separately confirmed it had struck vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the IRGC said its "resistance" would continue as long as it viewed American actions against Iran's interests as continuing.

Trump responded with unusually blunt language in a Fox News interview Wednesday, vowing the US would hit Iran "hard" and that "they're going to get a beating," using considerably harsher, profanity-laced language in describing the intended response. He said US forces had only minutes to shoot down the incoming Iranian missiles targeting Jordan.

Hours after the Jordan attack, US and Saudi forces launched joint airstrikes on pro-Iran militia targets in eastern Iraq, killing at least 20 members of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces and wounding 32 others, according to the group itself. CENTCOM and Saudi Arabia said the strikes targeted Iran-backed militias responsible for recent attacks on US troops and Saudi energy infrastructure, adding that the operation had been coordinated with the Iraqi government. Trump described the pro-Iranian militia groups as a "cancer on the world."

The exchange marks the most serious flare-up since Trump abruptly suspended a 13-day US bombing campaign against Iran the previous Friday, citing what he called "good talks" underway with Tehran. That pause had briefly halted hostilities, with Iran also appearing to stand down its own strikes over the weekend — a lull that lasted only a few days before Tuesday night's attack reignited the conflict.

Despite the renewed fighting, Trump indicated he still intends to let US negotiators continue talks with Iran, even though the latest strikes have disrupted some diplomatic engagement, with Iran reportedly taking a defiant tone in discussing the negotiations. Israel, which struck Iran alongside the US in an earlier, larger wave of combat operations this year, is not a party to the current round of talks and has not participated in this latest exchange.

With both sides now trading strikes again after barely a week of calm, the coming days are likely to determine whether this marks a temporary escalation or a full collapse of the ceasefire framework that had briefly held.

Regional tensions intensified on Wednesday after Iran launched missiles toward Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait in the aftermath of recent US military strikes. Jordan's armed forces said their air defence systems successfully intercepted several incoming missiles, preventing casualties and damage, as the United States reiterated its willingness to pursue diplomacy while warning that it would continue to defend its interests and allies.

According to Jordan's state-run Petra News Agency, the country's air defence systems detected six missiles launched from Iranian territory. Military officials said four missiles were intercepted after entering Jordanian airspace, while the remaining two landed in remote, uninhabited areas without causing injuries or property damage.

Jordan's military confirmed that no casualties or material losses were reported and stated that security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.

Regional Security Concerns Rise

The missile launches came amid heightened tensions across the Middle East following recent US strikes targeting Iranian-linked facilities. Although authorities in Bahrain and Kuwait have not immediately reported any direct damage, regional security agencies remain on high alert amid fears of further escalation.

The latest developments have prompted concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict, with Gulf nations closely monitoring the evolving security situation.

Rubio: US Ready for Diplomacy

Speaking during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, Philippines, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remains prepared to engage in diplomatic talks with Tehran but questioned Iran's willingness to negotiate.

"Our biggest problem right now is that they're not serious about negotiating. If they are serious, we will be too. If not, we will do whatever is necessary to protect our interests and the interests of our allies," Rubio said.

His remarks underscored the Biden administration's position that diplomacy remains the preferred path, provided Iran demonstrates a genuine commitment to negotiations.

Diplomatic Window Remains Open

Despite the exchange of military actions, US officials continue to maintain that diplomatic engagement remains possible. However, Washington has also indicated that it will respond decisively to threats against American personnel, military assets, and allied nations in the region.

The latest missile incident highlights the fragile security environment in the Gulf, where any further escalation could have significant implications for regional stability, global energy markets, and international diplomacy.

International Community Watching Closely

The growing confrontation between the United States and Iran has drawn international attention, with several countries urging restraint and calling for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent a wider conflict.

Security analysts note that continued military exchanges risk increasing instability across the Middle East, making diplomatic engagement increasingly critical in the coming days.

Regional tensions in the Middle East continued to escalate on Monday after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it had launched attacks against American military facilities located in Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, and other locations across the region. The claims were accompanied by another announcement from the IRGC stating that it had shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Iran's Khuzestan Province.

The latest developments come amid continuing military operations and heightened security concerns involving Iran and the United States. While Iran has publicly announced the attacks and the alleged drone interception, several of its claims have not been independently verified, and the United States has not confirmed key aspects of the announcements.

According to statements released by the IRGC, its military operation targeted multiple U.S. military installations in the Middle East. Iranian officials described the attacks as part of an ongoing campaign and stated that military operations would continue. However, they did not provide detailed information regarding the extent of the reported strikes or any confirmed damage at the targeted locations.

No official confirmation has been issued by the U.S. Department of Defense regarding the reported attacks on American military bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, or elsewhere. Independent verification of battlefield claims remains difficult because of the rapidly changing security situation in the region.

The IRGC also claimed that it intercepted and destroyed an American MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle near Ahvaz in Iran's Khuzestan Province. Iranian state media released a video that it said showed the drone being brought down. However, the authenticity of the footage has not been independently verified.

As of the time of publication, the United States had not confirmed the reported loss of an MQ-9 Reaper drone. Military officials have not publicly commented on the Iranian claim or the video circulated by Iranian state media.

The MQ-9 Reaper is among the most advanced unmanned aerial systems operated by the United States military. It is widely used for intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance missions, and, when required, precision strike operations. The aircraft has played a significant role in various U.S. military operations around the world due to its long endurance, advanced sensors, and ability to carry precision-guided weapons.

Military experts note that any confirmed loss of such a platform would be operationally significant. However, until official confirmation or independent evidence becomes available, the status of the reported drone incident remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) released a video through its official social media channels showing preparations aboard the USS Boxer (LHD-4), an amphibious assault ship operating in the Arabian Sea. According to CENTCOM, F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter aircraft assigned to the vessel have been placed on operational readiness.

The F-35B is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed with short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, allowing it to operate from amphibious assault ships and shorter runways where conventional fighter aircraft cannot be deployed. Its stealth characteristics, advanced sensors, and precision strike capability make it one of the most sophisticated combat aircraft currently in service.

Defense analysts believe the deployment of F-35B aircraft aboard forward-positioned naval vessels enhances operational flexibility during periods of regional instability. The aircraft can rapidly respond to evolving security situations while supporting a range of defensive and offensive missions if required.

The latest military announcements from both Iran and the United States underscore the continuing volatility across the Middle East. With both sides maintaining a heightened military posture, international observers remain concerned about the possibility of further escalation.

Governments across the region continue to monitor developments closely, while diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions remain ongoing. Several countries have urged restraint and called on all parties to avoid actions that could expand the conflict beyond its current scope.

International security experts have also emphasized the importance of verifying battlefield claims through independent sources before drawing conclusions. During periods of armed conflict, information released by the parties involved may not immediately be confirmed by neutral observers due to restricted access and operational security considerations.

As military activity continues, attention remains focused on official statements from both Tehran and Washington regarding the reported attacks, the alleged drone interception, and future military operations. The evolving situation is expected to remain a major focus of international security and diplomatic discussions in the coming days.

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Saturday, entering its seventh consecutive day of direct military exchanges, with Tehran warning that countries hosting American military bases could face a "corresponding response" if they continue to support US operations.

The latest escalation saw fresh US airstrikes inside Iran, retaliatory missile attacks by Tehran targeting American military facilities across the Gulf region, and renewed tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.

US Expands Military Campaign

The US military carried out another round of overnight strikes targeting locations inside Iran, with American officials stating that the operations were aimed at further degrading Iran's military capabilities.

Iranian authorities reported casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure, including bridges, power facilities, airports and transportation networks in southern provinces.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said several civilians were killed during the latest attacks, including victims of a strike on a bridge in Bandar Khamir.

Iran Warns Gulf States Hosting US Bases

Tehran issued one of its strongest warnings since the conflict began, declaring that countries allowing the United States to launch attacks from military bases on their territory could face retaliatory action.

Iranian officials maintained that any nation facilitating American military operations would bear responsibility for the consequences.

Senior military adviser Mohsen Rezaee warned that if US attacks continue, Iran would move beyond its current strategy of retaliation and enter what he described as a phase of "full-scale offensive operations."

Missile Attacks Across the Gulf

Iran claimed responsibility for missile strikes targeting US military installations in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Qatar.

Iranian military statements said missiles struck facilities including aircraft hangars, fuel storage areas and communication infrastructure at Bahrain's Sheikh Isa Air Base.

Authorities in Bahrain activated air raid sirens multiple times, urging residents to seek immediate shelter.

Jordan's military announced that its air defence systems intercepted 10 Iranian missiles after they entered the country's airspace, adding that no casualties or significant damage were reported.

In Qatar, officials said missile debris injured a child after the country's defence systems intercepted incoming projectiles.

Hormuz Tensions Deepen

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass, remained at the centre of the escalating crisis.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed that two oil tankers exploded after entering what they described as mined waters near the strait. Tehran also alleged that four commercial vessels attempting to transit the strategic waterway had been stopped during missile and drone operations.

The United States rejected Iran's allegations regarding the tanker incidents.

The latest developments have heightened concerns over global energy security, with oil markets continuing to monitor the situation closely.

Civilian Infrastructure Reportedly Damaged

Iranian media reported damage to electricity infrastructure, desalination facilities and water supply systems in Hormozgan province following the latest American strikes.

Local authorities said several villages experienced disruptions in drinking water supplies after missile attacks damaged coastal pumping stations.

Emergency teams have begun restoration work while officials continue assessing the extent of the damage.

Regional Security Concerns Grow

The latest military exchanges have significantly expanded the geographical scope of the conflict, with multiple Gulf nations now directly affected by missile interceptions and heightened security alerts.

Military analysts warn that continued attacks on strategic shipping routes, regional military bases and civilian infrastructure could further destabilise the Middle East and increase risks to global energy markets.

Diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis remain limited, while both Washington and Tehran continue to exchange military strikes with increasingly broader targets.

As the conflict enters another critical phase, international observers are closely watching whether the confrontation remains limited or develops into a wider regional war involving additional countries.

Austria marked their return to the FIFA World Cup after a 28-year absence with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Jordan in a lively Group J encounter, thanks largely to veteran striker Marko Arnautovic's influential second-half display.

Played on a chilly evening in the San Francisco Bay Area, the match proved far more competitive than many had anticipated, with Jordan pushing Austria throughout and threatening to pull off a surprise result on the global stage.

Austria took the lead in the 21st minute through Romano Schmid, who unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew into the top corner. The goal rewarded Austria's growing control after an energetic start from Jordan, who had created the first real opening of the game when captain Ehsan Haddad fired into the side netting following a quick counter-attack.

While Austria enjoyed the majority of possession and dictated much of the tempo, Jordan remained dangerous on the break. The pace and movement of Ali Olwan and Musa Al-Taamari repeatedly tested the Austrian defence and ensured the contest remained open.

Jordan's persistence paid off shortly after the restart. Five minutes into the second half, Olwan surged down the left flank before producing a clinical finish that struck the far post and bounced in, bringing the scores level and sparking celebrations among the Jordanian supporters.

The equaliser shifted momentum and briefly put Austria under pressure. Seeking greater attacking urgency, the Austrian coaching staff introduced experienced forward Marko Arnautovic at half-time, a move that ultimately proved decisive.

The 37-year-old thought he had restored Austria's lead in the 69th minute when he bundled home from close range. However, the goal was disallowed after a VAR review detected a handball by defender Stefan Posch during the build-up.

Austria continued to press and finally regained the advantage in the 76th minute. A dangerous corner delivered by Marcel Sabitzer caused confusion inside the Jordan penalty area, with defender Yazan Al-Arab inadvertently turning the ball into his own net under pressure.

Jordan refused to back down and continued searching for another equaliser, but Austria held firm. Deep into stoppage time, Arnautovic sealed the result from the penalty spot after Austria were awarded a late spot-kick, ensuring the scoreline reflected their territorial dominance.

Austria finished with 62 percent possession and registered more attempts on goal, although Jordan created several dangerous moments and managed four shots on target compared to Austria's two.

Speaking after the match, Austria midfielder Konrad Laimer acknowledged the challenge posed by their opponents. He said the team had expected a difficult contest and credited Austria's mentality for helping them secure all three points despite periods where their performance dipped.

For Jordan, the result was disappointing but far from discouraging. Making their first appearance at a FIFA World Cup, the Asian side demonstrated resilience, organisation and attacking intent against more experienced opposition.

Goal-scorer Ali Olwan said his side did not deserve to lose and expressed confidence that Jordan could still progress from the group stage. With two matches remaining, Jordan remain hopeful of making further history at the tournament.

The victory gives Austria an important start in Group J and boosts confidence ahead of tougher challenges to come. For Jordan, despite the defeat, the performance offered plenty of encouragement as they continue their maiden World Cup journey.