The Washington Post reported that it spoke with multiple US officials who confirmed that more American soldiers have been killed in the war against Iran than the Department of War has publicly disclosed. The Pentagon has publicly acknowledged 18 service member deaths and more than 830 injuries.
The outlet reported on Thursday, speaking with five sources who said at least 22 American servicemen have died during the conflict, while a sixth said the number was 23. Additionally, one of the officials said three American contractors in the region have been killed.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth denied the report, calling it “a complete LIE.”
DCAS records 14 deaths during Operation Epic Fury. Four additional troops killed after renewed hostilities in July were classified separately under “Overseas Operations,” bringing the Pentagon’s publicly acknowledged total since the war began to 18.
The DCAS reports over 830 injuries to American troops during both operations. The Pentagon figures do not include private military contractors.
The officials speaking with The Post did not provide details on the identities of the unrecorded deceased service members or how they died. The officials “expressed frustration” that the Pentagon is not giving the public accurate information.
The White House may be attempting to downplay the number of American casualties to keep the war from becoming more unpopular ahead of the midterm elections.
