Three U.S. service members have been killed and five others seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury, according to U.S. Central Command, marking the first confirmed American casualties since the large-scale strikes on Iran began.
The announcement came in a statement released at 8:49 a.m. ET Saturday.
What CENTCOM announced
U.S. Central Command said the casualties occurred as part of ongoing combat operations tied to Operation Epic Fury, the U.S. military campaign targeting Iran.
In addition to the three killed and five seriously wounded, several other service members sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions. Officials said those troops are in the process of returning to duty.
CENTCOM said major combat operations are continuing.
Military officials said the situation remains fluid and that additional details are limited.
Out of respect for families, the identities of the fallen service members will not be released until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.
No information was immediately provided about the locations of the casualties, the branches of service involved, or the specific circumstances that led to the deaths and injuries.
Ongoing operations
The casualties come as U.S. and Israeli forces continue strikes against Iranian targets following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei earlier Saturday.
President Trump has said the operation aims to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime and prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
Defense officials have not indicated whether additional U.S. casualties are expected as operations continue.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
