Washington, Oct 30:
The cost of the war with Iran to American taxpayers has risen to an estimated $47.1 billion, according to a fresh Pentagon assessment submitted to Congress, highlighting the growing financial burden of the conflict.
The estimate from the US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, is calculated up to October 16. The latest figure represents an increase of $3.5 billion from the estimated $43.6 billion recorded in early September. The war began in late February with military action by the United States and Israel.
The largest component of the expenditure is the replacement of weapons and ammunition used in the conflict, estimated at around $29 billion. Operational costs, including support for US service personnel, account for approximately $11.9 billion, while replacing damaged or lost equipment is estimated at about $6 billion. The assessment does not include the cost of damage to American military bases in the region following Iranian attacks.
The financial implications have become an issue ahead of the US midterm elections. President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of renewed strikes after the November 3 elections, even as the administration seeks additional funds for the war and other priorities. The White House has also sought approval for a $95-billion package, while proposing a substantial increase in military spending.
The rising expenditure, along with the impact of the conflict on energy prices and the loss of military personnel, has intensified debate in Congress over the duration and cost of the war. The latest estimate highlights how a conflict initially projected to last only a few weeks has developed into a prolonged and expensive military engagement.