Pentagon Increases Cost of War Against Iran to Approx. $29 Billion
The Pentagon has declared that the cost of the war against Iran has risen to $29 billion (24.7 billion euros), about $4 billion more than the estimate given two weeks ago.
This update comes as American lawmakers are increasingly concerned about the cost of the war and its impact on depleting American weapon stocks.
A significant portion of this sum has been dedicated to replacing ammunition and repairing equipment. According to Pentagon comptroller Jay Hurst, the estimate does not include the cost of repairing or rebuilding American military sites damaged in the region.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced criticism from members of Congress regarding the decrease in U.S. weapon stocks, the rising cost of the war, and President Donald Trump’s objectives.
Hegseth rejected claims that Washington is depleting its weapon stocks: “I strongly disagree with the assertion that ammunition is running out in a public forum,” he stated. “That’s not true.”
He also discussed the Trump administration’s efforts to increase weapon production and addressed concerns about the military budget proposal for 2027 and the war’s impact on military funding.
California Republican Ken Calvert raised concerns about whether the war against Iran could weaken Washington’s long-term state of preparedness, questioning if the depth and reliability needed for a high-level conflict were being built.
Hegseth mentioned Washington has plans to escalate or de-escalate the war as necessary, without providing further details.
During a four-hour hearing, Hegseth also faced criticism about strained relations between Washington and longstanding allies.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell emphasized the importance of U.S. leadership within NATO, calling it the world’s most important military alliance.
Tensions between Trump and NATO escalated after members rejected calls to aid in a conflict with Iran, causing disruptions in global markets and fears of a supply shortage.
The U.S. and Iran remain at a standstill in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and gas transit, impacting energy prices and supply concerns.
Additional sources: AP
