Iran War Cost Hits $37.5 Billion

WASHINGTON — The rapidly expanding U.S. war against Iran has already cost American taxpayers an estimated $37.5 billion, and President Donald Trump’s administration is seeking tens of billions more to sustain military operations and replenish depleted weapons stockpiles.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed the latest cost estimate Tuesday while testifying before the Senate Appropriations Committee. The figure represents a sharp increase from the $25 billion estimated in late April and the nearly $29 billion reported in May.

Hegseth defended the administration’s request for additional war funding, warning lawmakers that the Pentagon could face critical shortages without immediate congressional action. Much of the money would be used to replace missiles and other munitions, repair damaged equipment and continue military deployments across the Middle East.

House Republicans are advancing a broader $95 billion budget package backed by Trump. Approximately $70 billion would support defense and intelligence operations related to the Iran conflict. The remaining money would include about $10 billion in agricultural assistance and another $10 billion connected to proposed federal voter-identification requirements.

The hearing was repeatedly disrupted by protesters opposed to the war, reflecting growing public and political unease over its human and financial toll.

The Pentagon says 17 American service members have been killed during the conflict. More than 100 troops have been injured during the most recent escalation, although officials said many suffered relatively minor injuries and have returned to duty. Three service members were killed in recent attacks in Jordan and northern Iraq.

Democratic lawmakers sharply questioned Hegseth about the administration’s long-term strategy. Sen. Patty Murray of Washington accused Trump of drawing the country deeper into a costly war without providing Congress or the public with a credible plan for ending it.

The criticism comes after Trump repeatedly predicted that the fighting would soon conclude. Instead, U.S. airstrikes have continued while Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks against American forces and regional allies.

Public support for Trump’s handling of Iran has also weakened. Recent polling has consistently found that roughly six in 10 Americans disapprove of his management of the conflict, while large majorities say the war has created more problems than it has solved.

Economic pressure is adding to the opposition. Fighting around the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted shipping through one of the world’s most important energy corridors, pushing oil and gasoline prices higher.

Trump has nevertheless urged Republicans to remain united behind the funding measure. The House began advancing the package Tuesday, although it still faces difficult negotiations in the Senate and fierce opposition from Democrats who warn that Washington is committing itself to another prolonged Middle Eastern war.