3 U.S. service members killed and 5 seriously wounded in Iran operation, after Trump warned of casualties

Fortune

by Ben Finley, The Associated Press

March 1, 2026

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Three American service members were killed and five others seriously wounded during U.S. operations in Iran, marking the first casualties in a major offensive against the Islamic Republic. The Pentagon confirmed the deaths and injuries but did not disclose details about where or when they occurred, describing the situation as fluid. President Donald Trump had earlier warned of potential casualties, emphasizing that military actions are taken for future security rather than immediate gains. The U.S. Central Command also reported minor injuries to several service members, including shrapnel wounds and concussions, who were expected to return to duty. Iranian claims of hitting the USS Abraham Lincoln with ballistic missiles were denied by U.S. officials, who stated that no ships were struck. This denial underscores the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, which have escalated following retaliatory attacks on American bases in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. The operation comes after a significant build-up of U.S. military presence in the Middle East, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and its accompanying destroyers. This strategic move highlights the administration's commitment to countering threats in the region, particularly from Iran. Previous operations under Trump, such as the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and strikes against ISIS targets, demonstrate a pattern of assertive military actions aimed at protecting U.S. interests globally. For businesses, this situation matters due to its potential impact on global oil prices and trade routes in the Middle East. The region's instability can disrupt supply chains and create economic uncertainties, affecting industries reliant on Middle Eastern resources or operations. Investors and business leaders are closely monitoring these developments for insights into how ongoing tensions might influence market dynamics and international relations.

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Originally published on Fortune on 3/1/2026