Washington, Jul 22 (V7N) – The cost of the United States' ongoing military campaign against Iran has risen to $37.5 billion, an increase of nearly $8 billion from the estimate released in May, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers on Tuesday.
Speaking before the Senate Appropriations Committee on July 21, Hegseth warned that military training and operational readiness could be affected unless Congress urgently approves additional funding for the Pentagon.
It was Hegseth's first appearance before the committee since the latest escalation of hostilities between the United States and Iran.
The defense secretary said the Pentagon has requested $87 billion in supplemental funding, including $67 billion earmarked for military operations in the Middle East.
"We live in a dangerous world, and this situation requires quick and bold action," Hegseth told the committee.
He warned that without the requested funding, the US military could face difficulties in paying service members, rapidly replenishing equipment and ammunition, and maintaining uninterrupted military operations.
Earlier this year, the White House submitted a proposal to Congress seeking $1.5 trillion for the Pentagon in the next fiscal year. If approved, it would represent the highest level of US military spending in modern history.
Meanwhile, military tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East. On Tuesday, the United States carried out strikes against Iran for the 11th consecutive day, while Iran continued retaliatory attacks against US forces and its regional allies.
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