Pentagon Raises Combat Pay For First Time Since 2002 As Iran War Persists

What happened: The Pentagon raised combat pay for US troops for the first time since 2002, as the Iran war continues and another round of escalation appears to be coming. Spokesman Sean Parnell announced the increase. Key numbers: Hostile Fire Pay rose to $450 per month, double the previous amount. Why it matters: The pay change comes as US bases in the Middle East have been hit by Iranian missiles and drones. The Washington Post reported the Pentagon has not disclosed all US military deaths in the region, putting the figure at up to 23.

The Pentagon raised combat pay for US troops for the first time since 2002, as the Iran war continues and another round of escalation appears to be coming. Spokesman Sean Parnell announced the increase.

The pay change comes as US bases in the Middle East have been hit by Iranian missiles and drones. The Washington Post reported the Pentagon has not disclosed all US military deaths in the region, putting the figure at up to 23.