Phoenix Police Increase Patrols Amid Regional Tensions Following Operation Epic Fury

The Phoenix Police Department moved quickly to reassure residents Sunday as news broke of U.S. military casualties in Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing war against Iran.

In a public statement, the department acknowledged that international events can create anxiety within local communities. "We want our community to know that there are no known or credible threats to our city at this time," the statement read.

As a precaution, the department announced increased high-visibility patrols around houses of worship and community gathering spaces, while officers were placed in direct contact with community leaders to monitor any emerging concerns.

"The safety and well-being of everyone in our community remain our highest priority," the department added.

The statement came after U.S. Central Command confirmed that three American service members were killed and five others seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury.

The operation began Saturday when the U.S. and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran following months of stalled nuclear negotiations.

President Donald Trump later announced that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed in the strikes. Iran responded with hundreds of missiles and drones targeting U.S. military bases across the region.

Arizona Officials Mourn

Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) said he plans to vote in favor of a war powers resolution, explaining the strikes were not legally justified. "The president has not justified at all why we are at war," Gallego said, calling it "a very simple vote" for every senator. He has also called for the Senate to return to session to hold that vote, though it is unclear if leadership will follow through.

Still, Sen. Gallego made clear he mourned the loss of life. "My deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of these three service members we lost. We are eternally grateful for their bravery and sacrifice for our country," he wrote.

In addition to Gallego, Arizona officials came together to honor the fallen. Congressman Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ), a veteran himself, wrote: "Having served overseas myself, I know the weight of saying goodbye to friends and family, uncertain of what the future holds."

Attorney General Kris Mayes (D-AZ) called the soldiers patriots, writing: "I am praying for the soldiers wounded in the attack, the safety of all of our troops abroad, and their loved ones back home."

Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) added, "Terrible news. May God bless their souls and comfort their families. Their heroism and dedication to our country will not be forgotten."

They were among many Arizona officials who took a moment to honor those lost.

As of now, the Pentagon has withheld the names of those killed pending notification of the families of the fallen soldiers having been personally notified of their loved one's death before making that information public.