The Iran war has cost closer to $50 billion, about twice the $25 billion cited
by the Pentagon in congressional testimony, according to U.S. officials familiar
with internal assessments. The higher estimate reflects uncounted losses such as
destroyed equipment and infrastructure, including 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones. Defense
Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine defended a $1.5
trillion budget request as lawmakers questioned costs. Acting comptroller Jules
Hurst said future construction costs remain uncertain. Senator Chris Coons said,
“I am frankly certain that that is low,” while Representative Ro Khanna raised
concerns over inflation impacts.
