America’s top military officer warned that achieving US objectives in Iran will take time and further casualties are likely. He said operations remain ongoing as US and Israeli strikes entered their third day. The remarks signal a prolonged conflict affecting US forces, regional allies, and Iran.
General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the campaign would not be completed overnight. He stressed that objectives assigned to US Central Command would require sustained and difficult work. The US military confirmed that Kuwait’s air defenses mistakenly shot down three American F-15E fighter jets during an Iranian attack. Despite setbacks, Washington continues reinforcing its troop presence across the Middle East.
Read more: Iran does not rely on ‘one individual’: official
Caine’s comments followed remarks by Donald Trump, who suggested strikes could continue for up to four weeks. The United States and Israel launched the campaign on Saturday in a major escalation against Tehran. US forces have intercepted hundreds of ballistic missiles targeting American assets and partner nations in the region. However, a fourth US service member died Monday from injuries sustained during operations.
During the same briefing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected comparisons to past prolonged conflicts. He insisted the mission would not become an endless war, though he acknowledged it would take time. Hegseth said the goal is to destroy Iran’s missile systems, naval forces, and key security infrastructure. He emphasized that the campaign differs from previous US interventions in the region.
Read more: US confirms first casualties as Iran strikes escalate
Even as airstrikes intensify, Iran’s clerical leadership has shown no sign of stepping down. Military analysts say air power alone may not be enough to force regime change. Reports indicate dozens of Iranians have been killed, including in strikes hitting apparent civilian areas. The expanding conflict now poses serious risks to regional stability and global security.