Families of US service members are facing intense uncertainty, emotional strain and financial pressure as the US war with Iran enters its sixth month. Long deployments, unexpected extensions of duty and limited communication have disrupted daily life for families connected to military bases across the United States and troops stationed in the Middle East. Managing school runs, household budgets and fears for loved ones’ safety has become a daily burden.

More than 50,000 US troops are in the Middle East, with thousands more Marines and sailors deployed for the war. The six-month conflict has killed 18 US service members and injured more than 750. In a March survey by Blue Star Families involving nearly 200 active-duty military family members, 81 percent said the Iran war had increased their stress.

Blue Star Families is offering online support, webinars, in-person meetings and connections between newly deployed spouses and experienced military families. The Pentagon said it takes families’ concerns seriously and will take steps to provide support and stability. Financial difficulties are particularly acute for National Guard households when deployments interrupt civilian employment.