“U.S. Military Casualties Rise: Pentagon Says 140 Service Members Hurt in Iran Conflict”

The Role of Proxy Conflicts

One of the defining characteristics of the U.S.–Iran rivalry is the use of proxy forces. Instead of engaging directly in large-scale military battles, both sides often operate through allied groups in the region.

Iran has been accused of supporting various militant organizations and militias, while the United States maintains partnerships with regional governments and security forces.

These proxy conflicts can occur in multiple countries simultaneously, including:

• Iraq

• Syria

• Lebanon

• Yemen

Because of this dynamic, attacks against U.S. troops may come from groups that are not formally part of Iran’s military but are believed to have connections to Iranian leadership.