The recent military operation, known as Epic Fury, has resulted in the deaths of three U.S. soldiers and left five others seriously injured.
The fatalities were confirmed by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) in a statement, which refrained from disclosing further specifics.
"Several others sustained minor injuries from shrapnel and concussions and are in the process of returning to duty. Major combat operations are ongoing, and our response efforts continue," the statement reads.
Details regarding the identities of the deceased will remain undisclosed for 24 hours out of respect for their families, the statement adds.
Trump's Warning of Unprecedented Force
U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran on Sunday, threatening to strike with "unseen force" if Tehran follows through on its vow to launch a "historic offensive" against the U.S. and Israel in retaliation for the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
As reported by EFE, the Iranian regime confirmed the supreme leader's death following a joint military operation executed on Saturday by American and Israeli forces targeting strategic locations in Tehran and other cities.
Trump Responds to Iranian Threats
Through his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump addressed the threats made by Iranian authorities in recent hours.
"Iran has just declared they will attack with more force than ever today. However, they would be wise not to, because if they do, we'll hit them with a force never seen before," the president wrote.
In another post on Saturday, following the confirmation of Khamenei's death, Trump stated, "Khamenei, one of history's most evil figures, has died. This is not only justice for the Iranian people but also for all great Americans and individuals from many countries worldwide who have been killed or maimed by Khamenei and his band of bloodthirsty thugs."
The U.S. president also urged the Iranian people to "reclaim" their country after decades under the ayatollahs' rule.
Iran Strikes Back with Pledge of Revenge
In retaliation, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced attacks on 27 U.S. military bases in the Middle East and targets in Israel, including Tel Aviv, in an effort to avenge the supreme leader's death.
Explosions have been reported in Doha, Kuwait, and Dubai, while Qatar's Ministry of Defense claimed to have intercepted up to 18 ballistic missiles aimed at its territory.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared, "We will avenge the Americans and Israelis." He warned that they would deliver blows "so terrible that they will beg for mercy."
Consequences of the U.S.-Israel Offensive
The joint military operation on Saturday targeted strategic facilities in Tehran, Tabriz, and Isfahan.
In addition to Khamenei, Iran confirmed the deaths of Chief of Staff Abdorrahim Mousavi; Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh; Revolutionary Guard Commander Mohammad Pakpour; and senior advisor Ali Shamkhani.
The attacks have resulted in over 200 fatalities, according to the Red Crescent, and led to the temporary closure of airspace in several Persian Gulf countries, affecting major international airport hubs.
Key Questions on U.S.-Iran Tensions
What is the Epic Fury operation?
The Epic Fury operation is a military campaign by the United States targeting strategic locations in Iran, following heightened tensions and threats from Tehran.
How has Iran responded to the death of Ayatollah Khamenei?
In response to Ayatollah Khamenei's death, Iran has launched attacks on U.S. military bases in the Middle East and targets in Israel, seeking to avenge the loss of their supreme leader.
What are the potential consequences of the U.S.-Iran conflict?
The ongoing conflict could lead to further military engagements, increased casualties, and broader geopolitical instability in the region, affecting international relations and security.