US seeks $80 billion for Iran war, other expenses

The U.S. Defense Department is preparing to ask Congress for about $80 billion to cover costs associated with the war in Iran and other expenditures, according to the Wall Street Journal. This request follows criticism leveled against President Donald Trump for allocating substantial taxpayer funds to the Middle East conflict while the U.S. grapples with rising oil prices and inflation.

Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg reportedly shared the funding request with lawmakers. Pentagon officials have indicated that without a new wartime spending bill from Congress, they risk depleting funds for ongoing operations in the upcoming months. Such a shortfall could necessitate cutbacks in troop training and deployments, potentially affecting initiatives like the U.S.-Mexico border crackdown.

The cost of the war with Iran has reportedly reached nearly $29 billion, though critics suggest the actual financial impact, including damages inflicted by Iran, may be considerably higher. Concerns have also surfaced regarding the war's strain on U.S. weapons stockpiles, influencing decisions like pausing arms sales to Taiwan. While Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has downplayed notions of a munitions crisis, some of the requested $80 billion is earmarked for munitions, personnel pay, and ship operations.

The conflict, which began after U.S.-Israeli strikes on Tehran in late February, has significantly impacted the Middle East and disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil supply route. Diplomatic efforts to end the war face challenges, with recent flare-ups in fighting and postponed talks. Some lawmakers have stated they will only support additional funding if the conflict receives formal congressional authorization, citing President Trump's alleged violation of the War Powers Act by initiating hostilities without congressional backing.