The Pentagon has confirmed the death of a seventh American troop during the U.S.-Israel operation in Iran.
The soldier was identified as Sgt. Benjamin Pennington, who hailed from Glendale, Kentucky. He died on Sunday, but his name was revealed Monday morning in line with the military’s policy to give the families of slain service members 24 hours before the public announcement.
Pennington was stationed at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, where he sustained wounds during an enemy attack on March 1. “Operation Epic Fury” started on Feb. 28.
The exact cause of death is unclear. The War Department said the incident is under investigation.
Pennington served with the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado, since June 2025. He was 26.
“The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” said Lt. Gen. Sean Gainey, who commands USASMDC. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Last week, six U.S. Army Reserve members were killed in an Iranian drone attack in Kuwait following the start of the joint U.S.-Israel strikes against Iran.
In comparison to some countries in the Middle East, the United States has sustained few casualties since the start of the military campaign. The United Nations estimates more than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran so far, and Lebanon’s death toll amounts to more than 300. In Israel, at least 13 people have died due to retaliatory attacks.
US DEATH TOLL IN IRAN WAR RISES TO 7 AFTER SERVICE MEMBER DIES FROM INJURIES IN SAUDI ARABIA
Iran has launched multiple waves of ballistic missiles and attack drones in the region, targeting several neighboring countries across the Gulf. These nations include Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.
Separately, there was a death of a National Guard member who died due to a medical episode at Camp Buehring in Kuwait. The member was identified as Maj. Sorffly Davius, who served in the 42nd Infantry Division of the U.S. Army National Guard. No further details about his death were provided.
