Pentagon reveals the cost of Trump's war in Iran
Photo: Pete Hegseth (Getty Images)
The United States' military campaign against Iran has already cost American taxpayers tens of billions of dollars. So far, 18 US service members have been killed and hundreds more wounded, says US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
During his first appearance before Congress since the large-scale bombing campaign against Iran resumed, Hegseth said the war has so far cost $37.5 billion, a figure that covers ongoing military operations as well as projected spending through the end of September.
However, the total price tag is expected to climb significantly. Last month, President Donald Trump asked Congress to approve an additional $90 billion, with most of the funding earmarked for the Iran campaign. The request has fueled growing frustration among lawmakers as the November elections approach.
Hegseth warned that without emergency funding, the US military would struggle to maintain normal operations, calling the situation a direct threat to national security. The Pentagon is also seeking $1.5 trillion in funding for fiscal year 2027.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine echoed those concerns. He said the military would be able to continue paying troops, but warned that investments in future capabilities and maintenance of military equipment could be at risk.
US casualties in the Iran war
According to Reuters, the US death toll rose to 18 service members over the weekend, while about 430 troops have been wounded with injuries of varying severity.
Lawmakers have also criticized the White House for providing little transparency about its strategy. Trump and his administration have not publicly detailed their long-term plans, prompting concerns in Congress that the conflict could turn into another "forever war."
Background
Despite signing a ceasefire memorandum, the United States and Iran continue to engage in active military operations. US forces have carried out repeated strikes on Iranian military bases and infrastructure in recent days.
Trump has said the United States is not finished with the war against Iran and has no intention of withdrawing. He also claimed that even if the conflict ended immediately, Iran would need 20 to 25 years to rebuild.
