WASHINGTON: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers that the war against Iran has cost the United States $37.5 billion so far, as the Pentagon sought additional funding to sustain military operations.
Testifying before the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hegseth said the figure includes costs already incurred as well as projected expenses through September 30. He also urged Congress to approve President Donald Trump’s request for nearly $90 billion in supplemental funding, most of it linked to the Iran conflict, alongside the Pentagon’s proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget for 2027.
Why is the funding request facing scrutiny?
The funding request comes amid growing criticism from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, who have questioned the administration’s handling of the conflict and expressed concerns over its financial and military impact.
Hegseth warned that without additional funding, the Pentagon may be forced to reduce military training and delay maintenance and future capability investments. The conflict has also resulted in rising US military casualties, with the Pentagon reporting 18 service members killed and around 430 injured since hostilities began.
The latest developments come as a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran has collapsed, with both sides continuing daily military strikes.