Nightline: War with Iran War With Iran: Day 28
Mar 28, 2026
Ian Pannell, ABC News chief foreign correspondent with deep conflict-zone experience, provides on-the-ground analysis. He breaks down rising troop casualties and traumatic brain injuries. He examines conflicting claims about peace talks and Iran’s negotiation power. He explains Iran’s use of the Strait of Hormuz and the wider economic fallout.
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Widespread Traumatic Brain Injuries Among U.S. Troops
- Over 300 U.S. troops have been wounded, mostly from traumatic brain injuries caused by Iranian one-way attack drones and explosives.
- 303 wounded total with 10 seriously injured and about 90% returned to duty, raising long-term cognitive and medical concerns.
Mixed Messaging Reflects Iran's Fragmented Power
- The U.S. messaging about talks and timelines is mixed because Iran's power structure is fragmented and hard to negotiate with.
- Washington likely speaks to Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian via intermediaries, but the IRGC and supreme leader hold decisive influence.
Iran's Asymmetric Strategy Uses Cheap Tools For Big Impact
- The war is asymmetric: Iran uses low-cost tactics like drones and closing waterways to offset conventional military losses.
- U.S. and Israeli strikes removed much of Iran's offensive capability, so Iran leans on economic leverage and cheap drones.