Pentagon updated its casualty database over the weekend, adding more than 140 wounded service members. The Defense Casualty Analysis System also created a new “Overseas Operations” category for personnel killed and wounded beginning July 7.

According to the updated figures, the earlier phase of the U.S.–Iran conflict, designated Operation Epic Fury, now records 14 killed and more than 400 wounded. The previous count had listed 18 deaths and 482 wounded just days before, a reduction that followed a collapse of the ceasefire and the resumption of near‑daily airstrikes on July 6.

Analysts and officials have debated whether casualties from the renewed fighting should be counted separately from Operation Epic Fury, a classification that would be unprecedented. The Trump administration says the separate count complies with the War Powers Act of 1973, which requires ending military operations within 60 days unless Congress authorizes an extension, and argues that the April ceasefire paused the conflict’s timeline. The new casualty tally began on July 7.

The change became apparent when the Pentagon’s online list of killed service members omitted four soldiers killed during renewed fighting, though a press release on Wednesday listed their names as part of a transfer back to the United States.

Lawmakers from both parties have challenged the administration’s interpretation of the War Powers Act. Representative Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, posted on X that the Pentagon “pretends there have been two Iran wars separated by a brief cease‑fire.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth added that the absence of congressional authorization beyond 90 days “is breaking the law and must be held accountable.”