**Pentagon Changes Reporting of Casualties in Iran War**
The United States Department of Defense (DoD) has made significant changes to its method of reporting casualties in the ongoing conflict with Iran. As part of an effort to provide more accurate and comprehensive information, the DoD has separated casualty numbers into two distinct web pages.
Prior to this change, all casualty data was listed on a single webpage under “overseas operations casualties.” However, starting from July 7, when the cease-fire began unraveling and fighting escalated, the Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS) restored four previously removed soldier deaths. This move has raised concerns among some critics who argue that it may have minimized the number of U.S. soldiers killed in action.
The new system also includes a separate webpage for listing wounded service members since July 7. According to this page, there are now 142 more individuals listed as wounded than previously reported by the DoD. The total number of casualties since February 28 is estimated to be around 624, with an official count of 18 killed.
The Pentagon has faced criticism over its handling of casualty data in recent months. In response to concerns about concealment and inaccuracies, a spokesperson for the chief Pentagon spokesman stated that claims of such actions were “fabrications meant to further distress the American people.”
However, it appears that this new system may have inadvertently increased transparency by separating casualties into two distinct categories. The DoD has not provided an explanation for why these numbers are being reported separately.
The White House has yet to comment on the changes made by the Pentagon. This move comes as the conflict in Iran continues to escalate, with ongoing fighting and airstrikes taking place across the region.
**Background**
The United States has been engaged in a military operation against Iran since February 28, following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement between the two countries. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, including U.S. soldiers killed or wounded.
In response to concerns about casualty data and transparency, some critics have called for greater accountability from the Pentagon. However, it appears that this new system may be an attempt by the DoD to provide more accurate information while also attempting to mitigate criticism.
**Sources**
* New York Times
* Defense Department Press Release (July 2023)
* Pentagon Spokesman Statement (August 2023)
Based on reporting from New York Times.
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