The United States has launched a major military campaign against Iran, striking targets nationwide under what President Donald Trump has named Operation Epic Fury.
The escalation has caused heavy casualties and intensified regional tensions. But key questions remain: Is this officially a war? And could US ground troops be deployed?
Here’s what we know.
How Many People Have Died?
According to the Iranian Red Crescent, at least 787 people have been killed in Iran.
Among US forces:
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Six Americans have been killed
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18 service members have been injured
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that a projectile breached air defences and struck a fortified US military position. Reports suggest casualties occurred in Kuwait.
The deadliest single reported strike occurred in Minab, where an elementary school was hit, killing at least 165 students.
Is the US Officially “At War”?
Under the US Constitution:
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Congress has the power to declare war.
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The president, as commander-in-chief, can respond to threats.
The last formal US declaration of war was during World War II.
Since then, major conflicts — including Vietnam War and the Iraq War — occurred without formal declarations.
In 1973, Congress passed the War Powers Resolution, limiting unilateral presidential military action to 60 days unless Congress authorises it.
Trump notified Congress within the required 48-hour window, describing Iran’s threat as “untenable.”
So Is This a War?
Legally, it has not been declared a war.
Politically and militarily, analysts say the distinction often depends on:
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Duration
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Intensity
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Scale of engagement
If operations continue for weeks or months, it will likely be considered a de facto war.
Why Did the US Attack?
The Trump administration cites several reasons:
1️⃣ Stopping Iran’s Nuclear Programme
Trump and Vice President JD Vance say the goal is to eliminate Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons.
However, the International Atomic Energy Agency has recently stated it has no evidence that Iran currently possesses a nuclear weapons programme.
2️⃣ Countering Regional Threats
Iran has launched missile and drone attacks targeting:
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Israel
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US military assets in Bahrain
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Saudi Arabia
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Qatar
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The United Arab Emirates
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Iraq
Will the US Send Ground Troops?
So far:
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There is no official announcement of a ground invasion.
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The campaign relies heavily on airpower, naval assets and missile systems.
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Lawmakers from both parties have expressed concern about “boots on the ground.”
A ground invasion would significantly escalate the conflict and require:
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Congressional backing
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Massive troop deployments
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Long-term logistical planning
Given the political and military costs — especially after two decades of war in Iraq and Afghanistan — analysts say Washington is likely to avoid ground combat unless US forces or allies suffer major additional losses.
