- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that the cost of the United States' war in Iran has risen to US$48 billion so far, as of July 21.
- Hegseth indicated that this figure includes certain aspects of the war as well as anticipated costs through September 30.
- The Pentagon faces an urgent budget shortfall largely due to the war in Iran, with critical funding lines set to run out within weeks.
- President Donald Trump requested nearly US$90 billion in additional funding in June, primarily related to the Iran conflict.
- Lawmakers have expressed frustration over the lack of communication from Trump and his administration regarding the conflict and funding.
- The White House has asked Congress for an immediate infusion of US$67 billion to help cover the costs of the war, but lawmakers are currently gridlocked.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed to a Senate panel that the U.S. war in Iran has cost approximately US$48 billion so far, including anticipated expenses through September 30.12
Hegseth's testimony highlighted a growing concern over the Pentagon's budget, which is facing an urgent shortfall due to escalating military operations.
“The Pentagon faces an urgent budget shortfall caused largely by the war in Iran,” he stated, noting that critical funding lines could run out within weeks.3
Lawmakers from both parties expressed frustration over the administration's lack of communication regarding the conflict.5
“The president is threatening escalation and war crimes,” said Senator Patty Murray, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the administration's plans.
The White House has requested US$67 billion in immediate funding to cover war costs, but Congress remains gridlocked.6
“It’s either over, or it’s not over,” remarked Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, reflecting bipartisan concerns about the administration's messaging.
As the conflict continues, the Pentagon has already begun limiting training and maintenance due to budget constraints, raising alarms about military readiness.
The House is expected to vote on a framework authorizing US$73 billion in fresh defense spending, slightly exceeding the White House's request, but any resolution may be delayed due to the upcoming recess.
“The reason why they (people) are so upset with you and this administration is because the words you have used in the past don’t add up,” Gillibrand added, underscoring the growing discontent among lawmakers.
“Trump asked Congress in June for nearly $90 billion in additional funding, most of it related to the Iran conflict. Senator Patty Murray said at the hearing that Trump 'is threatening escalation and war crimes' and suggested this could be another forever war.”
