Six U.S. service members have been killed in action during the ongoing conflict with Iran, known as Operation Epic Fury

As of March 2, 2026, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that six U.S. service members have been killed in action during the ongoing conflict with Iran, known as Operation Epic Fury.

This joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign began on February 28, 2024, and the casualties mark the first American fatalities of the mission.

Summary of the Casualties

The death toll rose to six on Monday following a series of updates from the Pentagon:

• Initial Deaths (3): On Sunday, March 1, the military confirmed three Army soldiers were killed when an Iranian munition struck a tactical operations center in Kuwait.
• Subsequent Death (1): A fourth service member, who was initially listed as seriously wounded in the same strike, succumbed to their injuries early Monday morning.
• Recovered Remains (2): Later on Monday afternoon, CENTCOM announced that the remains of two additional service members—who were previously unaccounted for—had been recovered from a facility hit during Iran’s initial retaliatory strikes.

Key Context of the Conflict

• Wounded in Action: In addition to the six fatalities, at least 18 other U.S. service members have been reported as seriously wounded.
• The Operation: President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have stated that the mission’s goals include neutralizing Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. The operation has already resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
• Friendly Fire Incident: Separate from the fatalities, three U.S. F-15 fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during an Iranian missile barrage. Fortunately, all six crew members ejected safely and were recovered.

The identities of the fallen service members are being withheld for 24 hours pending the notification of their next of kin.