WASHINGTON — The United States’ military operations against Iran have cost an estimated $37.5 billion, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers, revealing a significant increase in the financial burden of the conflict and renewing debate over Washington’s war strategy.
Hegseth presented the figure during a Senate hearing while defending the administration’s request for additional funds to sustain ongoing military operations. The new estimate is nearly $8 billion higher than the Pentagon’s previous public assessment.
The Defence Secretary said the total includes spending on current operations as well as projected costs through September 30, covering areas such as military deployments, equipment, logistics and operational support.
The disclosure has sparked fresh scrutiny from members of Congress, with some lawmakers demanding more details about how the Pentagon calculates the costs and questioning the long-term financial impact of the conflict on US taxpayers.
The growing expenditure comes as Washington faces increasing debate over the duration and objectives of its military campaign against Iran. Critics have warned that continued operations could place additional pressure on the federal budget, while supporters argue that sustained funding is necessary to protect US security interests.
The Pentagon has requested additional resources linked to the Iran conflict, saying the funds are needed to maintain military readiness, support deployed forces and respond to ongoing security challenges.
The rising costs have deepened political divisions in Washington, with opponents questioning whether the war has a clear end strategy, while administration supporters argue that investment in defence is essential during periods of heightened regional tensions.
The latest figures highlight the expanding economic consequences of the conflict, as lawmakers weigh the financial cost of military action against broader national security priorities.
