Iran war has cost $37.5 billion, Hegseth says, as conflict escalates

Key Points:

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified that the U.S.-Iran conflict has cost approximately $37.5 billion so far, with the Trump administration requesting an additional $67 billion in supplemental Pentagon funding to cover war expenses and replenish military supplies.
• The ongoing conflict has resulted in 18 U.S. service member deaths and nearly 100 injuries in recent Iranian strikes, while the U.S. has conducted consecutive strikes on Iranian military infrastructure amid escalating tensions.
• Senate Democrats criticized the administration's Iran strategy as ineffective and costly, with some questioning the achievement of stated goals like degrading Iran's military and nuclear capabilities, while Republicans expressed mixed views on war funding and strategy.
• The administration also seeks $1.5 trillion for the Department of Defense's fiscal year 2027 budget, emphasizing the need to address global military threats, though some lawmakers are skeptical about approving further funds without clearer outcomes.
• Congressional debate continues over the use of budget reconciliation to approve defense funding, with concerns raised about unspent previous funds and differing opinions on the best approach to support military readiness without perpetuating the conflict.