Three U.S. Troops Killed, Five Seriously Wounded as Fighting With Iran Intensifies

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed the deaths of three American service members and serious injuries to five others during ongoing military operations against Iran, marking the first reported U.S. fatalities in the escalating conflict.

According to CENTCOM, the casualties occurred amid sustained air and naval operations under “Operation Epic Fury,” as U.S. and Israeli forces intensified strikes over the weekend. The offensive followed heightened tensions in the region, with operations continuing into Sunday.

In an official statement, CENTCOM said: “Three U.S. service members have been killed in action, and five are seriously wounded as part of Operation Epic Fury. Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions—and are in the process of being returned to duty.”

The command added that combat operations remain active. “Major combat operations continue, and our response effort is ongoing. The situation is fluid, so out of respect for the families, we will withhold additional information, including the identities of our fallen warriors, until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified,” the statement read.

There was no immediate public reaction from President Donald Trump regarding the reported casualties. However, senior administration officials responded shortly after the announcement. The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, wrote on social media: “Freedom is never free.”

Meanwhile, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed concern over the developments, urging congressional action. “No more American heroes need to die because of a reckless decision to go to war. Congress must act this week to restrain this president,” he said.

As the conflict escalates, U.S. forces, alongside Israel’s military, have stepped up bombardments aimed at weakening Iran’s military infrastructure. In response, Iran has reportedly launched missiles targeting Israeli positions and U.S. military facilities in the region.

Earlier Sunday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed they had struck the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with four ballistic missiles in the Gulf. CENTCOM, however, rejected the assertion, stating: “The missiles launched didn’t even come close. The Lincoln continues to launch aircraft in support of CENTCOM’s relentless campaign to defend the American people by eliminating threats from the Iranian regime.”

The situation remains volatile as both sides exchange claims and counterclaims, with international observers closely monitoring further developments.