Pentagon estimate reveals US cost of Iran war tops $47 billion

• The war’s impact on prices in the US is expected to be a major issue in the upcoming midterm elections. 

The US military’s bill for the war against Iran has climbed above $47 billion, according to a new Pentagon estimate obtained by Reuters, intensifying scrutiny of the conflict as US President Donald Trump’s administration faces mounting political and economic pressure ahead of November’s congressional elections. 

The latest estimate represents an increase of more than 25% from the $37.5 billion figure announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in July. The Pentagon has not publicly released the updated assessment and did not immediately respond to a request for comment, Reuters reported. 

Much of the projected expenditure is tied to replacing weapons and military equipment consumed or lost during the conflict. More than $29 billion is earmarked for replenishing spent munitions, while over $6 billion would be needed to replace military equipment and aircraft, including drones. 

The figures may not capture the full financial burden of the war, as they do not clearly account for the substantial costs of repairing US military bases damaged by Iranian missile and drone attacks. 

War costs weigh on Republicans ahead of elections

The growing cost of the conflict comes as Trump’s Republican Party seeks to retain its narrow majorities in both chambers of Congress in the Nov. 3 midterm elections.

The war’s impact on global energy costs has weakened support for Republican candidates and contributed to declining approval ratings for Trump, Reuters reported. Rising energy prices have added to concerns about affordability, making the conflict an increasingly significant political issue ahead of the vote. 

The latest estimate also adds to questions about the long-term financial implications of the war, particularly because the Pentagon’s figures do not clearly include the cost of repairing damaged military facilities.

With the possibility of renewed combat still on the table, the eventual bill could rise further, depending on the duration and intensity of any additional US military operations.

Read more: US warns Gulf states of possible renewed Iran war after elections: WSJ