Iran Launches Ballistic Missiles at US Base in Jordan, Claims Strikes on US Warships in Persian Gulf Amid Escalating Regional Conflict

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Direct ballistic missile attacks by Iran on a US military base in Jordan, coupled with Iranian claims of striking US warships and the US confirmation of destroying Iranian oil tankers, mark a significant escalation of active conflict. The declaration of a new Iranian 'prohibited zone' in critical maritime areas further heightens regional tensions and the risk of miscalculation.

📌 Key developments

• Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched ballistic missiles at the US military's Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Azraq, Jordan, today, September 9, in retaliation for US strikes on Iranian vessels. Jordan's army reported intercepting 18 of 20 incoming missiles, with two falling in unpopulated areas and no casualties.
• The IRGC claimed its naval forces targeted two US warships and eight other vessels in the Persian Gulf region, inflicting 'heavy damage' in response to US actions. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) denied these claims, stating 'No U.S. Navy warship has been struck; all IRGC attempted attacks failed,' and confirmed US forces destroyed five Iranian oil tankers on September 8.
• CENTCOM confirmed that on September 8, it destroyed five Iranian crude oil tankers—M/T Kaviz, M/T Charminar, M/T Horizon 1, M/T Riesco, and M/T Derya—four in the Gulf of Oman and one near Kharg Island, after Iran launched ballistic missiles at a US warship twice in recent days.
• Iran's IRGC announced today, September 9, a new 'prohibited zone' extending from Chabahar into parts of the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Vessels entering this area without Iranian coordination will face sanctions, including the suspension of maritime, insurance, and logistical services.
• Iran-backed Houthi rebels reported over 30 Saudi airstrikes across Yemen's Marib, Al-Jawf, Taiz, and Hodeidah provinces today, September 9. This follows Houthi attacks on September 8 that wounded 73 civilians and ignited fires at oil facilities in Saudi Arabia's Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushait.
• Oil prices surged past $100 per barrel today, September 9, for the first time in almost six weeks, driven by the escalating attacks on oil facilities and shipping in the Middle East.
• Iran's oil export revenue is 'drying up' due to a US naval blockade in the Persian Gulf, contributing to an economic crisis with over 80% year-over-year inflation and a projected 5.4% economic contraction for 2026.
• Iran and Russia finalized pacts today, September 9, to counter the US economic blockade, focusing on financial cooperation, workforce, and the creation of alternative trade routes.
• The UK laid legislation on September 8 to introduce tougher sanctions on Iran, restricting access to the British financial system, broadening trade bans, and prohibiting Iranian aircraft from landing, citing Iran's expanded nuclear program and accumulation of over 400kg of 60% enriched uranium.
• US military and intelligence officials are discussing reducing or restructuring the US presence in the Middle East after Iranian missile and drone attacks exposed vulnerabilities and caused significant damage, resulting in 18 US service member deaths.

💡 Why it matters

The direct Iranian missile strike on a US base in Jordan and the formal declaration of a maritime 'prohibited zone' significantly raise the risk of broader regional conflict and direct confrontation between Iran and the US. This escalation threatens global energy supplies, as evidenced by rising oil prices, and could further destabilize the Middle East. Policymakers and investors should prepare for sustained high tensions, potential disruptions to shipping, and continued economic pressure on Iran, which is now actively seeking to circumvent sanctions through alliances like that with Russia.

🎭 People in the news

• Mohsen Rezaei — Head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, reiterated Iran's plan to announce a maritime 'exclusion zone' outside the Strait of Hormuz, which was formally announced today.
• Brig. Gen. Hossein Mohibbi — IRGC spokesperson, announced the specific details and geographical scope of Iran's new 'prohibited zone' in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
• Seyyed Ali Madanizadeh — An Iranian minister, finalized economic pacts with Russia today to counter the US economic blockade, aiming to deepen financial cooperation and establish alternative trade routes.
• Mohammad Javad Bavand — A former Revolutionary Guards intelligence official, identified in secret documents as a central figure in a new network selling sanctioned Iranian oil, raising concerns within the Supreme National Security Council.
• Ali Chbib and Mohammad Berjawi — Al-Manar TV correspondent and cameraman, respectively, were wounded on September 6 by an Israeli air strike in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh area while preparing for a live broadcast.

👀 What to watch

• Any official US or Jordanian response to Iran's missile strike on the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base.
• Further details or enforcement actions regarding Iran's newly declared 'prohibited zone' in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
• Developments in the Houthi-Saudi conflict, including potential Saudi retaliation for recent Houthi attacks.
• Statements from the IAEA Board of Governors meeting regarding Iran's nuclear program and the Western push for a UN Security Council referral.