The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026. Six months later, official figures show at least 7,900 people killed across multiple countries, more than 5,500 attacks recorded, and the Strait of Hormuz seeing traffic drop from 100 ships daily to an average of seven. The conflict has cost the United States at least $37.5 billion so far.
How many people have been killed?
At least 7,900 people have been killed since the start of the war on February 28. Official counts list 4,350 deaths in Lebanon, 3,527 in Iran, and 28 in Gulf states. An additional 60 Israelis and 18 US service members died in Iranian attacks. The Pentagon reports 757 US personnel wounded. These figures come from national health ministries and may be updated.
How many attacks have occurred?
The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project records at least 3,580 attacks by the US and Israel on Iran. Iran carried out at least 2,053 attacks across the Gulf and wider Middle East. The total exceeds 5,500 attacks.
What happened to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz?
Before the war, about 100 ships passed daily through the strait. After the IRGC closed it on March 2, traffic fell to five vessels per day. An interim agreement in June raised the average to 20 ships, but it later dropped again. The six-month average stands at seven vessels daily. The International Maritime Organization confirmed 70 incidents involving ships, resulting in 19 seafarer deaths.
What are the financial costs?
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the war has cost $37.5 billion through payroll, operations, and maintenance. Internal Pentagon estimates cited in US media range from $80 billion to $100 billion when including repairs and weapons replenishment. Brent crude oil prices rose 22 percent to $88.58 per barrel. The US Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell to 290 million barrels, its lowest level since 1982.
What is the situation in Lebanon?
Israeli forces continue to occupy parts of Lebanon despite ceasefires agreed in April and renewed in June. Before the ceasefire, Israeli forces controlled nearly one-fifth of the country. A buffer zone covers about six percent. Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health reports 4,350 killed and 12,510 injured since fighting resumed in March.
How has US public opinion changed?
A Reuters/Ipsos poll ending August 24 showed President Trump’s approval rating at 33 percent, matching a low from his first term. Eighty percent of Americans expect the involvement in Iran to last an extended period.
Frequently asked questions
What triggered the war?
The US and Israel began strikes on February 28, 2026, targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites and assassinating Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Why has shipping collapsed?
Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz and subsequent attacks on vessels reduced daily traffic from 100 ships to an average of seven.
Has the conflict reached a stalemate?
Neither side has gained the upper hand. Negotiations have not broken the deadlock after six months.
Are casualty figures final?
No. Figures from national health ministries may change as more information becomes available.
What is the impact on global oil?
Brent crude rose 22 percent. The US released emergency stocks, and the Strategic Petroleum Reserve reached its lowest level since 1982.
Key takeaways
- At least 7,900 people killed across Lebanon, Iran, Gulf states, Israel and US forces.
- More than 5,500 attacks recorded by ACLED since February 28.
- Strait of Hormuz traffic averaged seven ships per day.
- US war costs reached $37.5 billion according to the Defense Secretary.
- Brent crude oil price increased 22 percent to $88.58 per barrel.
- US Strategic Petroleum Reserve at lowest level since November 1982.
