The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran declared it launched a barrage of 12 ballistic missiles at the US-operated al-Azraq air base in Jordan, alleging the destruction of three F-35 stealth fighters and damage to three others. While the IRGC insists on these significant strikes, US and Jordanian officials report that most incoming missiles were intercepted, with only minor damage on the ground.
The initial missile assault took place on June 10-11, 2026, aiming at facilities housing advanced aircraft including F-35s, F-15s, and F-16s. A follow-up wave of missile and drone strikes hit the same target between July 9-14, resulting in the deaths of two American service members and the disappearance of another. Jordanian air defenses again thwarted the majority of approximately 10 missiles launched during this second attack. This base was previously targeted in a 2024 drone attack that killed three US soldiers.
These events sent immediate shockwaves through the crypto market as leveraged positions faced a sharp selloff. Over $1 billion in liquidations occurred following the July strikes, demonstrating the market’s sensitivity to geopolitical turmoil. Bitcoin held firm, trading around $63,000 and signaling calm among holders without use exposure.
The IRGC’s claim hits a sore spot beyond battlefield bravado. The F-35 is the most costly weapons system ever developed, made by publicly traded Lockheed Martin. Its stock price can fluctuate dramatically on perceptions of the aircraft's vulnerability. However, no independent confirmation of damage to any F-35s has come from US or Jordanian sources.
This episode reveals how crypto markets react when headlines trigger rapid liquidations among highly leveraged traders, even though spot prices remain relatively stable. The resilience of Bitcoin contrasts with the trigger-happy use-driven sell pressure.
Material is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice.
