**Excerpt:** Three American service members lost their lives during a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran, according to CENTCOM.
Key Points
– Three U.S. service members were killed and five seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury against Iran.
– The U.S. and Israel targeted Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
– Iran retaliated with missile strikes against Israel and U.S.-allied nations.
– President Trump acknowledged the potential for U.S. casualties but emphasized the strategic necessity of the operation.
– CENTCOM has withheld identities of the deceased until next of kin are notified.
Details of the Operation
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Sunday that three American service members were killed and five others sustained serious injuries during Operation Epic Fury, a military operation conducted in conjunction with Israel against Iran. The operation began early Saturday and involved significant strikes on Iranian targets, including the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, who was reportedly killed in the operation.
Casualties and Ongoing Operations
In addition to the fatalities, CENTCOM reported that several other service members suffered minor injuries from shrapnel and concussions. The military stated that these individuals are being processed for a return to duty. The statement emphasized that major combat operations are ongoing, and the situation remains fluid. To respect the families of the fallen, additional information, including the identities of the deceased, will be withheld for 24 hours following notification of next of kin.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, expressed condolences on social media, stating, “May their memory be a blessing.”
Retaliation from Iran
In response to the attacks, Iran’s military launched retaliatory strikes targeting Israel and other U.S.-allied nations in the Middle East. Reports indicated that at least eight people were killed in a missile strike in Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem.
Presidential Remarks
President Trump addressed the nation in a video released on social media, asserting that his administration had taken all possible steps to minimize risks to U.S. personnel. He acknowledged the possibility of casualties, stating, “The lives of courageous American heroes may be lost… We’re doing this, not for now, we’re doing this for the future, and it is a noble mission.”
Conclusion
The situation in the Middle East remains tense, with the potential for further escalation. U.S. officials continue to monitor developments closely as operations proceed and diplomatic discussions unfold amidst the ongoing conflict.
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