US defense chief: Iran war has cost $37.5 billion so far

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on July 21 that the war in Iran has cost the United States $37.5 billion to date. This figure includes anticipated costs through the end of September and marks a significant increase from the previously reported $29 billion.

Hegseth defended the Trump administration's request for a $67 billion budget supplement for the Pentagon, asserting its urgency. He was joined by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Dan Caine in emphasizing the necessity of these additional funds.

However, the request faced scrutiny from lawmakers. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen challenged Hegseth's assessment, pointing out that the minister still had $75 billion in unspent funds. She questioned the need to ask American taxpayers for more money for a war they do not support, rather than utilizing already allocated but unused funds.

Other senators echoed this frustration, demanding clearer details on President Donald Trump's strategy for winning the war in the Middle East. Republican Senator John Kennedy called for "clear answers and a frank discussion," while also inquiring about the potential consequences if the U.S. were to withdraw from the Strait of Hormuz. Hegseth and Caine did not provide specific information regarding Iran's potential imposition of passage fees for ships using the strait.