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What should military families know about the Iran war?

Quick answer: This is the largest US military buildup since 2003, with 50,000-60,000 service members deployed. Blue Star Families and NMFA are expanding counseling and peer support. Guard/reserve members should review USERRA rights and deployment benefits.

Last updated: March 13, 2026

How large is the deployment?

The US military buildup in the Middle East is now the largest since the 2003 invasion of Iraq:

  • 50,000-60,000 US service members deployed to the region
  • Two carrier strike groups
  • More than 120 aircraft
  • Guided-missile destroyers and submarines
  • Extensive air defense systems

(Military.com)

What benefits should deploying members review?

Before deployment, ensure:

  • Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is current and beneficiaries are updated
  • Power of attorney documents are in place
  • Family care plans are filed (required for single parents and dual-military couples)
  • Review USERRA rights if you’re a Guard/Reserve member with a civilian job

Financial protections:

  • Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides interest rate caps, lease termination rights, and protection from default judgments
  • Hostile fire/imminent danger pay: Additional $225/month
  • Combat zone tax exclusion: Income earned in combat zones is tax-free
  • Family Separation Allowance: $250/month when separated from dependents

(NPR)

What support is available for families?

Several organizations are expanding services:

  • Blue Star Families — expanding counseling, peer support, and emergency assistance
  • National Military Family Association (NMFA) — mental health resources and financial services
  • Military OneSource (800-342-9647) — 24/7 free counseling, financial advice, legal help
  • Mentorship programs connecting new military spouses with experienced spouses for first combat deployments

Calls to support organizations have increased significantly since strikes began. (PBS News)

What about Guard and Reserve members?

The conflict could trigger involuntary mobilization authority:

  • Review your rights under USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act)
  • Your civilian employer must hold your job and maintain benefits during deployment
  • The type of activation (voluntary vs. involuntary) affects which benefits you receive
  • Contact your unit’s Family Readiness Group for specific guidance

(Military.com)

Key resources

  • Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 or militaryonesource.mil
  • Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
  • Blue Star Families: bluestarfam.org
  • NMFA: militaryfamily.org
  • Operation Homefront: operationhomefront.org (emergency financial assistance)
  • USERRA: dol.gov/agencies/vets/programs/userra
military familiesdeploymentbenefitssupportUSERRAveterans

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Related Questions

Will there be a military draft because of the Iran war?

Extremely unlikely. The US military is an all-volunteer force with 1.3 million active personnel. A draft would require an act of Congress and is not being discussed.

How many countries are involved in the Iran war?

Over 30 countries are now directly or indirectly involved. The US and Israel are leading strikes against Iran, with Hezbollah fighting on Iran's side. The UK, France, and other allies are providing support, while Iranian missiles have hit US bases across 8 Gulf nations.

How long will the Iran war last and when will prices go back to normal?

No one can predict the war's duration. President Trump has vowed to end it soon, but analysts warn it could last weeks to months. Even after fighting stops, economic effects typically take 3-6 months to fully unwind.