The number of American casualties in Operation Epic Fury increased as U.S. forces continued their military actions in Iran, U.S. Central Command confirmed Monday.
A service member initially injured in the operation later died from their injuries, and two previously missing personnel were found, raising the total military deaths to six.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that an attack resulted when a projectile bypassed air defenses, hitting a U.S. position. The location was not disclosed, but the Washington Post reported casualties occurred in Kuwait.
U.S. Central Command stated 18 troops were wounded, up from five over the weekend, according to Stars and Stripes. There was no comment on the severity of injuries or possible evacuations to medical facilities in Germany or the U.S.
The U.S. and Israel conducted strikes in Iran on Saturday, reportedly killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other leaders. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported 555 Iranian deaths by midday Eastern Standard Time.
Air Force Gen. Dan Caine of the Joint Chiefs of Staff mentioned additional air assets would be deployed to the area but did not specify troop numbers, affirming the U.S. combat capability remains strong.
The identities of the deceased have not been released, pending next of kin notification. Gen. Caine acknowledged potential future losses as efforts continue to minimize U.S. casualties.
President Donald Trump stated the operation aims to dismantle Iran’s missile systems, navy, and ensure it does not develop nuclear weapons.
U.S. Northern Command raised the security levels at domestic military installations to Force Protection Level Bravo, indicating heightened alert status.
