United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that three US military service members were killed and five seriously wounded during “Operation Epic Fury”, the large-scale offensive launched against Iran.
“As of 9:30 am ET, March 1, three US service members have been killed in action and five are seriously wounded as part of Operation Epic Fury,” CENTCOM said in a statement. Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions and are being returned to duty.
Officials stated that the identities of the deceased are being withheld until next of kin are notified. “The situation is fluid, so out of respect for the families, we will withhold additional information, including the identities of our fallen warriors, until 24 hours after notification,” the statement added.
Operation Epic Fury and allied strikes
Operation Epic Fury, launched under US President Donald Trump, was described as a coordinated strike targeting Iran’s top leadership in Tehran. The operation reportedly aimed at a “decapitation strike” that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with several senior officials.
Israeli forces under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu participated in the joint campaign, referred to by Israel as Operation Lion’s Roar.
The strikes targeted key political and administrative locations in Tehran, including offices linked to the Supreme Leader and other state institutions.
Escalation and casualties
Iran has responded with missile and drone strikes across the region, hitting US and allied positions in the Gulf. Reports from Iranian sources also claim civilian casualties, including damage to a girls’ school in southern Iran, though independent verification remains limited.
Major combat operations are continuing, CENTCOM said, warning that the response effort remains ongoing as tensions escalate across West Asia.