US confirms deaths of its two soldiers following Iranian attack
Identities of the fallen service members have not yet been released (photo: Getty Images)
US Central Command (CENTCOM) said two American service members were killed in recent Iranian attacks, while several others were injured.
According to the CENTCOM statement, the US military suffered casualties in Jordan.
"On July 17, two US service members in Jordan were killed in action as US Central Command (CENTCOM) and partner forces defended against Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks. Additionally, one service member is currently missing," the statement said.
CENTCOM also said that four US troops were evacuated to hospitals in Jordan but have since been discharged.
Other service members who sustained minor injuries have already returned to duty.
"Out of respect for the families, CENTCOM will withhold additional information, including the identities of the fallen warriors, until 24 hours after the next of kin have been notified," the command concluded.
Background
In June, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding that extended the ceasefire between the two countries and opened the door to negotiations on the key issues that had sparked the conflict.
However, in early July, Iran targeted a container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the vessel had attempted to use an unauthorized route.
In response, the United States launched strikes against a number of Iranian targets to weaken Tehran's influence over the strait. Iran then carried out another attack on commercial vessels, prompting another round of US retaliatory strikes. Since then, the two sides have been exchanging attacks on an almost daily basis.
Last week, US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire had effectively ended after Iran attacked the first vessel.
Earlier today, Iranian deputy foreign minister officially announced that Tehran was suspending its commitments under the ceasefire agreement.
