WASHINGTON: Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles at American forces stationed in the Middle East, the United States said, adding that all incoming projectiles were successfully intercepted.
In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the missiles were fired by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) at approximately 5:45 p.m. Eastern Time in what it described as an “attempted surprise attack” targeting US military personnel deployed across the region.
At 5:45 p.m. ET today, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on U.S. forces based in the Middle East. All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted. U.S. forces remain vigilant and at a high…
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 28, 2026
According to CENTCOM, American air and missile defence systems intercepted every missile before it could reach its intended target, preventing any reported casualties or damage.
“At 5:45 p.m. ET today, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on US forces based in the Middle East. All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted. US forces remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness,” the command said.
The US military did not specify which bases or countries were targeted, nor did it disclose the number of missiles launched. No immediate information was provided regarding injuries, damage to military installations, or any retaliatory measures.
The incident marks a significant escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, with US forces across the region remaining on heightened alert amid continuing security concerns.
Officials have indicated that American forces are maintaining a high level of readiness while closely monitoring the situation. There has been no immediate response from Iranian authorities regarding CENTCOM’s statement.
The latest missile attack comes after a brief pause in hostilities following nearly two weeks of direct military exchanges between the United States and Iran.
The renewed US military campaign began on July 15, 2026, with Washington launching strikes on Iranian military, naval and missile infrastructure after Tehran was accused of attacking commercial shipping and US interests around the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting US military facilities and allied assets across the Middle East, triggering almost two weeks of tit-for-tat strikes.
After 13 consecutive nights of US strikes, President Donald Trump ordered a halt to the bombing campaign on July 25, citing ongoing diplomatic efforts led by regional mediators, including Oman.
Iran subsequently suspended its retaliatory attacks, creating a fragile pause that lasted several days.
