WASHINGTON — March 1, 2026 — President Donald Trump acknowledged Sunday that three US Soliders have been killed in attacks, and that more American service members could be killed in ongoing military operations against Iran, hours after the U.S. military confirmed the first U.S. combat fatalities in the conflict.
In a video message posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump said there would “likely be more” U.S. service members killed as the U.S. and its partners continue offensive actions. The remarks came after U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that three U.S. service members had been killed and five were “seriously wounded” during operations against Iran. Several additional personnel sustained minor injuries and concussions and are expected to return to duty, CENTCOM said, but did not provide details on when or where the casualties occurred. The names of the service members are being withheld pending family notification.
Trump, speaking in the video, vowed to avenge the deaths of the fallen and deliver “the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against, basically, civilization.” He also reiterated America’s military strength, saying the United States is “the richest, most powerful nation in the world, by far” and praising the capabilities of U.S. forces.
In comments echoing remarks he made Saturday, Trump noted that casualties are a tragic but expected part of military conflict. “Lives of courageous American heroes may be lost, and we may have casualties, as often happens in war,” he said, framing U.S. operations as necessary to safeguard freedom and security.
Trump described the Iranian regime as an armed threat with long-range missiles and nuclear ambitions that could “extort the world to their evil will.” He asserted that preventing Iran from acquiring such weapons and neutralizing the threat posed by its forces are central goals of the U.S. military campaign.
The latest casualties mark the first confirmed American deaths since U.S. and Israeli forces launched a major operation against Iran earlier this week, reportedly targeting leadership and military infrastructure. Iran has responded with missile and drone strikes on U.S. bases and allied interests in the Gulf region.
Trump’s comments come amid continued uncertainty over the duration and scope of the conflict, with some officials and analysts suggesting fighting could continue for weeks. Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other regional partners, along with Congress and allied governments, are closely watching developments as tensions escalate.
The situation remains fluid, and the Pentagon has emphasized that major combat operations are ongoing as U.S. forces defend personnel and pursue objectives in the region.
