Al-Azraq, September 10 (Daily Kiran) : In recent days, Iran has escalated its attacks on Jordan, specifically targeting the Al-Azraq Airbase. This move comes as a response to U.S. military actions in the region. Tehran perceives the airbase not merely as a Jordanian military asset but as a crucial center for American military operations.
Located approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Jordan’s capital, Amman, Al-Azraq Airbase is under the control of the Royal Jordanian Air Force. It hosts U.S. troops and combat aircraft, with reports indicating that around 4,000 American soldiers are stationed in Jordan, utilizing the base for various operations. Since March, Iran has conducted multiple bombing raids on Jordan.
Iran argues that the airbase serves as a legitimate military target due to its role in supporting U.S. military initiatives. The recent strikes are seen as retaliatory actions in the context of escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran, particularly following attacks on Iranian oil tankers by American forces.
In February, prior to a joint U.S.-Israeli operation, several American aircraft were deployed to the base. Unlike other bases in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Al-Azraq is situated at a safer distance from Iran. A report from the U.S. Congress claims that operations against Syria and Iraq have also been launched from this base.
On September 9, Jordan’s military reported intercepting 18 out of 20 ballistic missiles fired by Iran, with the remaining two landing in open areas. However, recent U.S. reports indicate that some American military aircraft sustained damage during the attacks. Previously, missile strikes in July resulted in the deaths of three U.S. service members.
The strategic importance of Al-Azraq extends beyond the presence of U.S. forces. Its geographical location provides the U.S. with a relatively secure position away from Iranian influence and other conflict zones. The base’s capability to operate and maintain advanced fighter jets like the F-35, F-16, and F-15 enhances its significance.
For Iran, attacking Al-Azraq represents a direct challenge to U.S. military capabilities. For Jordan, this situation is particularly sensitive; while Amman is a close U.S. security ally, it does not wish to be drawn into the U.S.-Iran conflict. Nevertheless, the presence of American forces has embroiled Jordan in this escalating war.
Iran’s motivation for targeting Jordan is not that it views Jordan as its primary adversary. Instead, the focus is on the U.S. military infrastructure located within Jordan. The greatest risk lies in Iran’s strategy of targeting American bases, which could further entangle Jordan in the conflict.
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