About 140 U.S. troops have been wounded in the Iran war, including eight with severe injuries, according to the Pentagon.
The announcement marked the first official tally of American casualties since fighting between the United States and Iran sharply escalated in recent weeks.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Tuesday that the conflict could reach its most intense phase yet as U.S. forces continue large scale strikes inside Iran.
Information about U.S. military operations and casualty reports is released through the U.S. Department of Defense.
Pentagon Confirms Troop Injuries
Pentagon officials said roughly 140 American service members have been injured since the start of the conflict. Eight of those injuries are classified as severe.
The military has not yet released detailed information about where the wounded troops were injured or the circumstances surrounding the attacks.
The casualty figures highlight the growing human cost of the war as military operations expand across the region.
Officials say U.S. forces have launched thousands of strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure and weapons systems.
Trump Administration Defends War Strategy
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump stands by his decisions to launch military action against Iran.
She told reporters that Trump “is not making anything up” as he explains the reasons for the conflict and its objectives.
The administration has argued that the strikes aim to weaken Iran’s military capabilities and prevent further regional threats.
Policy statements from the White House can be found through the White House briefing room.
Israeli Leaders Signal Broader Goals
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested the war could lead to major political change inside Iran.
Speaking about the ongoing military campaign, Netanyahu said the goal is to weaken the Iranian government and encourage internal opposition.
“We are breaking their bones,” he said when describing the pressure being placed on Iran’s leadership.
Israel has been a key partner in military operations targeting Iranian forces and infrastructure.
Iran Rejects Calls for Ceasefire
Iranian officials have rejected suggestions that the country might seek a ceasefire.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said Iran will continue fighting despite heavy military pressure.
Another senior official, Ali Larijani, issued a direct warning to President Trump on social media.
“Iran doesn’t fear your empty threats,” Larijani wrote. “Even those bigger than you couldn’t eliminate Iran.”
He also warned Trump to be careful not to face consequences himself.
Markets React to War Uncertainty
Financial markets have reacted sharply to the uncertainty surrounding the war.
Oil prices and U.S. stocks experienced major swings earlier in the week after Trump suggested the conflict might be short lived.
By Tuesday, both markets had stabilized as investors tried to assess how long the war might continue.
Analysts say the duration of the conflict could have major consequences for global energy supplies and international security.