The Pentagon has reported that the financial toll of the war against Iran has reached nearly $29 billion. This increase comes as President Donald Trump faces intense scrutiny over the conflict's impact on U.S. military readiness.
The updated cost was revealed during a budget hearing on Capitol Hill, marking a $4 billion rise from a previous estimate just two weeks earlier. Pentagon finance chief Jules Hurst III explained the adjustment was due to updated costs for equipment repair and broader operational expenses.
During the hearing, Hurst referenced an earlier estimate of $25 billion provided by Hegseth on April 29. He noted that the joint staff and comptroller teams are continuously reviewing these figures.
Critics, particularly Democrats, have raised questions about the Pentagon's calculations, arguing that the actual costs—including damage caused by Iran—might be significantly higher.
Senator Hegseth indicated that Congress would receive a more comprehensive financial report, but he did not specify a timeline. He emphasized that the administration would request necessary funding separately from the Pentagon budget.
The hearing coincided with a precarious ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, with Trump suggesting the truce was on 'life support' following the rejection of Iran's latest peace proposal.
Democratic representatives used the opportunity to challenge the administration on the escalating costs and lack of transparency in military objectives. 'What have we accomplished and at what cost?' asked Rosa DeLauro, a Democratic leader in the House Appropriations Committee.
Betty McCollum echoed concerns regarding transparency, insisting on a clearer strategy before approving further funding.
The ongoing conflict has raised alarms about the depletion of U.S. weapon stockpiles, following months of intense military operations in the Middle East.
Despite these concerns, Hegseth downplayed the severity of munitions shortages, claiming that the issue has been exaggerated and asserting that the military has sufficient resources.
However, Senator Mark Kelly cautioned that certain advanced weapons, including Tomahawk missiles and Patriot interceptors, have been significantly reduced and may take years to replenish.
The hearings marked Hegseth's first appearance since the White House officially informed Congress about the termination of hostilities initiated against Iran on February 28.
Democrats have criticized Trump for conducting military actions without congressional approval, repeatedly introducing measures to limit his war powers, though these have faced Republican opposition.
In a follow-up Senate hearing, Senator Patty Murray expressed skepticism regarding the Pentagon's estimates, noting that they did not account for damage to U.S. facilities.
While Hegseth did not provide a specific damage estimate, he reiterated his stance that the costs associated with Iran developing a nuclear weapon would far exceed current expenditures.
The cost of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon would be far greater.
Pentagon Finance Chief Jules Hurst III