Pentagon seeks supplemental funding for Iran war amid congressional scrutiny
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Pentagon officials have met with House leaders to request tens of billions in additional funds for the U.S. war in Iran, but lawmakers say they lack detailed justification and remain divided over the proposal.
Pentagon officials have held a series of closed-door briefings with bipartisan House spending leaders to request a supplemental funding package for the United States' ongoing war in Iran. Lawmakers say the department has not provided specific details on why the money is needed urgently, prompting frustration among both Republican and Democratic members.
The Defense Department said it has conducted “hundreds of engagements” with members of Congress over the past two months, including briefings and meetings with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, as part of what it described as an aggressive legislative outreach effort.
Several Republican officials expressed skepticism. Majority Leader John Thune called the push “a risky proposition,” while Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick said the request “should make its case” before members are expected to approve it. Rep. Scott Perry noted that many colleagues believe there should be “pay-fors” for any additional spending.
Proponents argue that depleted munitions stocks, strained by conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, create an urgent need for replenishment. Rep. Nick LaLota said responsible lawmakers must ensure the military has a sufficient stockpile to deter future conflicts.
The House budget committee advanced a proposal that includes $60 billion for the Pentagon and $13 billion for intelligence agencies, aiming for a floor vote within days. Senate leaders are expected to seek a larger defense allocation than the House version, potentially affecting the final amount after the bill returns to the House.
The legislation also contains provisions for the President’s “SAVE America Act” and farm aid, which may face procedural challenges in the Senate. Lawmakers such as Rep. Chip Roy warned that the voter-verification provisions must be retained for the bill to pass.
The outcome remains uncertain as both chambers weigh the funding request against political considerations ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.