Pentagon Splits Iran War Casualties Into Separate Category, Resetting War Powers Clock

The Pentagon introduced an "Overseas Operations" casualty category on July 7, 2026—the day after the Iran ceasefire collapsed. The Trump administration argues the post-ceasefire campaign is separate from Operation Epic Fury, resetting the 60-day War Powers Act clock on presidential war-making authority. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) called it an "absurd ruse," citing 90 days without congressional authorization.