U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that four US service members have died during operations linked to Iran’s strikes, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Tehran and American forces.

In an official statement, CENTCOM announced that, as of 07:30 Eastern Time on March 2, four US soldiers were killed while on duty. The fourth service member died from wounds sustained during Iran’s initial attacks.

Previously, CENTCOM had reported that three US troops were killed and five others suffered serious injuries in the attacks. Additional personnel were reported with minor injuries, including shrapnel wounds and concussions.

The command said the identities of the service members will not be publicly released until at least 24 hours after their next of kin have been notified.

International media outlets, including Business Insider and The Guardian, have reported on the deaths of US military personnel in the conflict, confirming that American troops were killed and injured during Iran-related operations in the region. Such reporting underscores the growing human cost of the hostilities between US forces and Tehran.

The situation remains fluid, with large-scale combat operations continuing and efforts ongoing to care for the wounded, as tensions between Tehran and Washington show no sign of abating. (ILKHA)