US President Donald Trump has revealed how long fighting with Iran could continue after the first American troops were killed, warning the Middle East crisis may last for weeks.

Three US servicemembers were killed and five others wounded in retaliatory strikes linked to Iran, according to the Pentagon, marking the first American fatalities since the conflict dramatically escalated. Speaking in an interview, Mr Trump paid tribute to the fallen soldiers but admitted further casualties could occur. "They’re great people,2 he said. "And, you know, we expect that to happen, unfortunately. Could happen continuous - it could happen again." The president then outlined a potential timeline for the war, suggesting military operations could last around a month. It's always been a four-week process,” he said. "We figured it will be four weeks or so… it’s a big country, it’ll take four weeks - or less."

Mr Trump insisted the campaign was progressing as planned despite the deaths, saying the military action was "going as expected".

He also claimed strikes had eliminated senior Iranian leadership figures and significantly weakened the country's military capabilities.

American officials have contacted the families of the dead servicemen and the president said he intends to meet them “at the appropriate time". He may attend the dignified transfer of the troops’ remains or invite relatives to the White House.

Mr Trump added he had spoken with several leaders across the Middle East and indicated he would soon address the American public again regarding the military action.

While he did not rule out talks with Tehran, he suggested negotiations were not imminent, saying Iranian officials “should have talked last week”.

The fighting follows a major escalation after US-led strikes targeted Iranian facilities, prompting retaliatory attacks on American-linked positions in the region.

While he did not rule out talks with Tehran, he suggested negotiations were not imminent, saying Iranian officials "should have talked last week".

The fighting follows a major escalation after US-led strikes targeted Iranian facilities, prompting retaliatory attacks on American-linked positions in the region.