The US-Israel war against Iran has entered its fourth week, and President Donald Trump has ordered thousands of additional sailors and marines to the Middle East. Against this backdrop, concern is growing among US military personnel about the course of the conflict, according to sources among service members, reservists, and organizations working with the military.
Source: Bukvy
Some service members are experiencing high stress, frustration, and a loss of trust in leadership decisions, with some considering leaving the service. According to medics and veterans, US bases in the region are regularly targeted by Iranian ballistic missiles and drones, creating serious destabilizing effects. Since the start of hostilities, 13 US military personnel have died, and at least 232 have been injured.
Veterans and reservists report a sharp increase in conscientious objection requests. According to Mike Priesner, executive director of the Center on Conscience and War, the number of requests has risen by 1,000% compared to previous years, with at least one service member applying every day.
The main reasons for concern among personnel include inadequate planning and protection, lack of a clear strategy, and moral doubts about participation in the conflict due to civilian casualties, notably from the strike on a school in Minab, which killed at least 175 people.
Sources also note that changes in the attitude of US military personnel are linked to growing criticism of US policy in the Middle East and the use of the military for domestic and international political purposes. Veterans point out that the current actions of the Trump administration may indicate a shift in foreign policy, particularly regarding Venezuela and Cuba.
Despite high stress levels and moral doubts, sources do not report a mass exit from the service, but feelings of helplessness and frustration are prevalent among personnel.
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