Jordan’s involvement in U.S. military operations against Iran has grown as other regional allies have limited Washington’s use of their bases and airspace. Recent attacks by Iran on Jordan, including one that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. servicemen, add to the complexity of the conflict.
Iran’s latest actions are part of a pattern where Jordan has been increasingly targeted. Analysts indicate that this is due to Jordan’s central role in U.S. efforts against Iran. The U.S. and Jordan have a history of cooperation in military, intelligence, and counterterrorism operations, with Jordan hosting significant U.S. airbases. As the situation with Iran intensified, the Pentagon relocated troops from Gulf nations such as Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar to Jordan and nearby Israel, citing increased security concerns.
The role of Jordan expanded as other American allies restricted U.S. military access in their territories. Unlike the Gulf nations, Jordan relies significantly on U.S. foreign aid and is less able to refuse Washington’s requests.
Omid Memarian, an expert on Iran at DAWN, a think tank focused on the Middle East, noted that Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia are increasingly hesitant to allow U.S. military operations against Iran from their soil due to fears of retaliation. In contrast, Jordan is bound by its security agreement with the U.S. and cannot easily oppose Washington.
Following a specific threat, Jordan recently evacuated the international airport and seaport in Aqaba. The Jordanian military also intercepted three Iranian missiles, while a fourth landed in an uninhabited area, highlighting the increasing tensions in the region.
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