The cost of the US-Iran conflict has risen to nearly $29 billion, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, highlighting the growing financial burden of the war as scrutiny intensifies in Congress.
The updated figure, disclosed during a budget hearing on Capitol Hill, marks an increase of about $4 billion compared with the $25 billion estimate presented by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth just two weeks earlier.
Pentagon officials said the higher cost reflects updated calculations for equipment repair and replacement, as well as broader operational expenses, according to AFP.
“At the time of testimony… it was $25 billion,” Pentagon comptroller Jules Hurst III told lawmakers. “Now we think it’s closer to $29 [billion].”
Hegseth and General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, were appearing before Congress to discuss a $1.5 trillion defense budget request for 2027 when the updated figures were presented.
Pressed on when lawmakers would receive a detailed breakdown of war-related spending, Hegseth said the administration would likely submit a separate funding request, though he did not provide a timeline.
The rising costs come amid growing concerns on Capitol Hill about both the financial toll of the conflict and the lack of clarity surrounding its long‑term objectives.
Democratic lawmakers criticized the administration for what they described as limited transparency.
“The question must be answered at the end – what have we accomplished and at what cost?” said Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee.
Representative Betty McCollum also raised concerns about the Pentagon’s “consistent lack of transparency,” urging clearer communication about the administration’s strategy before approving additional funding.
The concerns are compounded by continued pressure on US military readiness, with officials warning that extended operations in the Middle East are contributing to the depletion of missile and air‑defense stockpiles.
The hearing took place as the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran appeared increasingly unstable.
On Monday, President Donald Trump said the truce was on “life support”, following Tehran’s rejection of key US proposals.
Despite continuing diplomatic efforts, the conflict continues to place significant strain on US finances, military resources, and strategic planning.