140 US service members wounded in Iran war, most injuries minor: Pentagon

The Department of State says over 40,000 Americans returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28 as evacuation flights continue
PUBLISHED MAR 11, 2026
Donald Trump announced US-Israel strikes on Iran that reportedly killed Ali Khamenei as the Pentagon said 140 US troops were wounded (AP Photo)
Donald Trump announced US-Israel strikes on Iran that reportedly killed Ali Khamenei as the Pentagon said 140 US troops were wounded (AP Photo)


WASHINGTON, DC: The war between the US and Iran has shaken more than just the two nations. It has also affected the global economic and political balance. As the conflict reached its 11th day, the Pentagon shared new updates about the situation.

According to the Pentagon, about 140 US service members have been injured since the fighting began. Most of the injuries were minor. Officials said 108 personnel have already returned to duty, while eight troops remain severely injured. On February 28, Trump announced major US-Israel strikes on Iran that targeted military sites and reportedly killed Ali Khamenei.

People watch as smoke rises on the skyline after an explosion in Tehran, Iran, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 (AP Photo)
People watch as smoke rises on the skyline after an explosion in Tehran, Iran, Saturday, Feb 28, 2026 (AP Photo)

140 US troops wounded in Iran war

Around 140 service members have been injured since the start of the conflict with Iran, according to the Pentagon. Most of the injuries are not serious, and many troops have already returned to duty.

"Since the start of Operation Epic Fury, approximately 140 US service members have been wounded over 10 days of sustained attacks," Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement on Tuesday, March 10.

"The vast majority of these injuries have been minor, and 108 service members have already returned to duty. Eight service members remain listed as severely injured and are receiving the highest level of medical care."



Military officials said five of them were killed when a drone struck a port in Kuwait. The fallen personnel were identified as Capt Cody A Khork, 35; Sgt 1st Class Noah L Tietjens, 42; Sgt 1st Class Nicole M Amor, 39; Spc Declan J Coady, 20; and Maj Jeffrey O'Brien, 45.

A sixth soldier, Chief Warrant Officer Robert Marzan, is believed to have died at the scene of the same attack, according to the Department of Defense. The seventh member, Army Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, from Glendale, Kentucky, died on Sunday, March 8, after being wounded earlier. The Pentagon said he was injured during a March 1 attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. 

Over 40,000 Americans return from Middle East



The Department of State said that more than 40,000 Americans have returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28.

Officials also noted that the department’s 24-hour task force has assisted over 27,000 US citizens who were still abroad during the crisis. To support evacuations, the government arranged more than two dozen charter flights, helping thousands leave the region safely.

Authorities added that evacuation flights are continuing, although demand has decreased and many flights are now operating at about 40% capacity.

RELATED TOPICS US STRIKES IRAN

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