US Defense Ministry Seeks $80 Billion for Iran War Costs

The U.S. Department of Defense requires an estimated $80 billion to cover costs associated with the ongoing war with Iran, in addition to other non-war-related expenses, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg reportedly informed lawmakers of this need in recent phone calls. A comprehensive supplemental funding request, which could include money for the Pentagon as well as non-defense priorities like farm and disaster relief, may be sent to Congress in the coming days.

Previous estimates from a Pentagon official in April suggested the Iran war had cost around $25 billion. However, the full financial implications of the conflict, which began alongside Israel on February 28, have been a subject of scrutiny on Capitol Hill. An earlier request for $200 billion in additional funding faced significant opposition from lawmakers.

The proposed budget reflects Republican priorities ahead of the midterm elections, amidst voter concerns over rising living costs and energy prices, as well as the financial burden of the Iran war.