A fourth U.S. servicemember has been killed in action as part of Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command announced Monday.
The servicemember, who has yet to be identified, was among those seriously wounding during Iran’s initial counterattacks after the U.S. and Israel launched the operation on Saturday.
“As of 7:30 am ET, March 2, four U.S. service members have been killed in action. The fourth service member, who was seriously wounded during Iran’s initial attacks, eventually succumbed to their injuries,” CENTCOM wrote on X.
“Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing,” it added.
The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after the military has notified the soldier’s next of kin.
Americans in Iraq urged to shelter in place until further notice
The U.S. Embassy in Iraq urged Americans in the country to shelter in place on Monday, warning of Iran-backed militias active across the country, among other threats.
“U.S. Mission Iraq advises U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution, keep a low profile, and shelter in place until further notice. U.S. citizens should avoid crowds, as demonstrations may turn violent with little warning. Iran-aligned terrorist militias continue to pose a significant threat to public safety. Reports of missiles, drones, and rockets in Iraqi airspace continue,” The Embassy in Baghdad wrote on X.
“There are ongoing riots, protests, and other demonstrations against the United States, especially on the south bank of the July 14th Bridge in Baghdad; these riots have been violent, and there are calls for additional demonstrations throughout Iraq,” the statement continued. “U.S. citizens should avoid areas around the July 14th Bridge. Iraqi authorities have closed the International Zone in central Baghdad, with limited exceptions. Do not attempt to come to the Embassy in Baghdad or Consulate General in Erbil in light of heightened security measures.”
The U.S. State Department has issued a level 4 travel advisory for Iraq, stating simply that Americans should not travel there “for any reason.”
