US President Donald Trump has stated that combat operations against Iran will continue with full force until ‘all objectives are achieved’, expecting that there may be further US deaths.
In a video recorded address to the nation posted on his Truth Social account on Sunday, President Trump grieved the death of three American personnel in the Middle East, marking the first American causalities in the Iran war.
“We grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, even as we continue the righteous mission for which they gave their lives” and called for prayers for “the full recovery” of five others that were seriously wounded.
He also warned that “Sadly, there will likely be more before it ends. That’s the way it is likely to be more. But we’ll do everything possible where that won’t be the case.” Earlier, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Sunday that as of 9.30am ET three US service members and been killed and five seriously wounded in what the Pentagon calls Operation Epic Fury.
The US military did not say when and where the casualties occurred, but they mark the first US losses since Trump ordered the attack on Iran early on Saturday.
The statement also said “several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions” and were going to return to duty.
“Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing. 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 next of kin have been notified,” CENTCOM added. – KUNA
