Fourth US service member killed in Iran operation

(The Hill) -- A fourth U.S. service member has been killed in the U.S. military operation against Iran, officials said early Monday.

In a post on the social platform X, U.S. Central Command (Centcom) said that the number of service members “killed in action" had risen to four.

“The fourth service member, who was seriously wounded during Iran’s initial attacks, eventually succumbed to their injuries,” Centcom said in its post.

“Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing.”

Over the weekend, the U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran following weeks of tension between Washington and Tehran. Quickly after the strikes, Iran retaliated through attacks against Israel and Gulf states including Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

On Sunday, the U.S. announced that three service members had been killed in the fighting against Iran. Centcom also said in a Sunday morning update that five service members had been seriously injured.

President Donald Trump on Sunday afternoon discussed the conflict against Iran and said it was “likely” that additional U.S. service members would die.

“We pray for the full recovery of the wounded and send our immense love and eternal gratitude to the families of the fallen,” Trump said in a video posted to Truth Social. “And sadly, there will be likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is.”

“[There will] likely be more but we’ll do everything possible where that won’t be the case.”

The State Department on Saturday urged Americans to “exercise increased caution” following the U.S. military action in Iran.

“Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate,” the State Department said in a security alert.