The US has spent more than $47.1 billion prosecuting the war in Iran, according to fresh Pentagon data provided to Congress by the US Central Command.
The figure represents a significant jump from earlier estimates, driven largely by operational demands and the high consumption of advanced weaponry, multiple outlets reported.
Of the overall cost, the largest single expenditure accounts for more than $29 billion dedicated to replacing expended munitions, such as defensive missile interceptors.
Another $6.1 billion is required to replace lost military equipment and platform losses, including aircraft and drones, while incremental operational costs total roughly $11.9 billion, which covered $7.6 billion in US Air Force flights and troop support.
Sources noted that the current tallies do not account for the additional expenses required to overhaul regional US military bases damaged by Iranian drone and missile strikes.
The escalating price tag has intensified political debates in Washington as American voters head to the polls for midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.
The conflict’s economic footprint and its strain on energy markets have weighed heavily on public support, while President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of restarting heavy mobilization if a long-term diplomatic agreement cannot be reached.
“We may do another little Epic Fury, or they’ll agree,” CBS News quoted Trump as saying during a recent Florida campaign.
