US Reports First Casualties in Iran War; Poll Signals Challenge for Trump

WASHINGTON – The U.S. military reported its first casualties in President Donald Trump’s escalating attacks on Iran. Three U.S. service members were killed, and five others were seriously wounded. Additional troops suffered minor shrapnel injuries and concussions. The fatalities occurred at a base in Kuwait, according to U.S. officials. The announcement follows strikes targeting more than 1,000 Iranian sites since Saturday.

Trump said 48 Iranian leaders had been killed and that the U.S. Navy had destroyed nine Iranian warships. He warned that additional U.S. casualties were likely. The strikes included B-2 bombers targeting hardened missile facilities in Iran. Trump described the campaign as a “four-week process” aimed at punishing those who have waged war. Officials said the operation could last multiple days or weeks.

The killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has created uncertainty over Iran’s leadership. A temporary council of the president, judiciary head, and Guardian Council member now runs the country. Trump said Iran’s new leadership wanted to talk to him, and he agreed. Analysts warned regime change cannot happen through airstrikes alone. They said outcomes depend on Iranian security forces and public unrest.

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U.S. lawmakers expressed mixed views on the strikes. Democratic Senator Chris Coons said airstrikes alone cannot force regime change. Republican Senators Tom Cotton and Lindsey Graham supported Trump’s call for Iranians to decide their leadership. Experts said Washington and Israel aim to weaken Iran’s military and destabilize its leadership. Success depends on whether Iran’s security forces resist or support public unrest.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed only 27% of Americans supported the strikes, while 43% opposed them. Public awareness was high, with nearly 90% hearing about the attacks. The U.S. and Israel’s campaign has already disrupted shipping, air travel, and global oil markets. Trump vowed to avenge U.S. casualties and continue targeting Iran’s military and leadership. Analysts warn uncertainty will continue as the situation unfolds.