US casualties in the Iran war are rising and being downplayed, which is bad news for American troops and anyone hoping the fighting stays contained.

• The Pentagon confirmed more American deaths after an Iranian strike on a base in Jordan, pushing the toll higher than earlier reports admitted.
• The US has bombed Iran seven nights running, but Iran is hitting back at US bases across the Gulf, showing it is not knocked out.
• Iran has already agreed to give up nuclear weapons and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, so a deal is on the table.
• Israel is blamed for pushing the US deeper into the war, backed by heavy lobbying money in Congress and both parties.
• A bill to cut off funding for Israel failed, with almost all Republicans and half of Democrats voting against it.

Outlook: More American casualties are expected as long as the bombing continues and no deal is reached.