U.S. Defense Secretary cites $37.5 billion cost of Iran conflict amid funding request

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee that the United States estimates the cost of the war with Iran at roughly $37.5 billion since it began in late February. He said the figure includes expenses expected through the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30 and that the administration is seeking a supplemental $67 billion request to cover ongoing operations and replace equipment used in recent strikes. The request is part of a broader $1.5 trillion budget proposal for the next fiscal year.

During the hearing, Senate Democrats criticized the administration’s strategy, noting that the conflict has killed 18 U.S. service members and injured nearly 100 others. Senator Patty Murray warned that the war is “spiraling out of control” and opposed a blanket funding increase, while Senator Richard Durbin asked for clarification on the cost estimate. In response, Hegseth said that Iran’s defense industrial base has been largely degraded, though some ballistic missiles remain in underground storage.

Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine also testified, framing the funding request as necessary to address a “global list of military challenges” across the Middle East, Europe and Asia. Republican committee chair Susan Collins acknowledged differing views on the use of force but emphasized the need to maintain readiness and fund essential capabilities.

The administration’s earlier request included $21 billion for munitions, $17.3 billion for operational costs and $12.1 billion for classified programs, as well as funding for Ebola response and farm aid. Lawmakers raised concerns about previous reconciliation funds that have not yet been spent and questioned the justification for additional appropriations.