Trump warns there will ‘likely be more’ American deaths before Iran operation ends

WASHINGTON, DC: On Sunday afternoon, President Donald Trump addressed the American public regarding the ongoing US military operation against Iran, acknowledging for the first time that it is “likely” more US service members will die before the conflict concludes.

The Pentagon has already confirmed multiple casualties following the escalation, which began with a coordinated US and Israeli strike. Trump’s remarks came amid the rapidly evolving situation, with both strategic outcomes and geopolitical repercussions unfolding across the Middle East.

Trump on casualties and military objectives in Iran

Trump spoke directly to the nation via a video posted on his Truth Social platform, offering condolences and expressing gratitude to the families of the service members lost in action.

According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), as of 9:30 am EST on Sunday, 3 American service members have died, five were injured, and “several” others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions during the operation launched early Saturday.

Trump said, “We pray for the full recovery of the wounded and send our immense love and eternal gratitude to the families of the fallen.” He then candidly added, “And sadly, there will be likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is.”

The president also attempted to reassure the public, stating the military would do everything possible to minimize further loss of life.

The US launched “Operation Epic Fury” at 1:15 am EST Saturday, deploying a range of assets including stealth B‑2 bombers, F‑16, F‑18 and F‑22 fighter jets, and M‑142 high mobility artillery rocket systems, according to CENTCOM.

In the first 24 hours, US forces targeted an extensive array of Iranian military capabilities: Iranian command and control centers; the joint and aerospace forces headquarters of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC); integrated air defense systems; ballistic missile sites; Iranian navy ships and submarines; anti‑ship missile sites; and military communication capabilities. CENTCOM also shared footage of strikes on IRGC headquarters and ballistic missile sites on X.

Trump’s statements on Iran's leadership and future of conflict

In his Sunday remarks, Trump claimed the US had sunk nine Iranian navy ships and Iranian naval buildings during the operation.

He also confirmed the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, referring to him as a “wretched and vile man” responsible for the deaths of “hundreds, even thousands, of Americans.”

Following Khamenei’s death, Iranian state television Press TV reported an interim leadership council composed of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Guardian Council jurist member Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, and head of the Iranian judiciary Gholam Hossein Mohseni‑Eje’i is now leading the country.

Trump seized the moment to issue a direct appeal to Iranians, urging the IRGC, armed forces and police to “lay down your arms” or “face certain death,” and calling on the Iranian people to rise up and reclaim their nation.

He said the United States “is with you” and promised continued assistance. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Trump also said the US operation would likely last “roughly four weeks,” framing it as a process that historically takes about that long due to the size and complexity of the country.