Washington: The first week of the US military campaign against Iran has cost approximately $6 billion, according to Pentagon officials who briefed Congress. Of the total expenditures, about $4 billion was allocated to munitions and advanced missile interceptors.
According to Anadolu Agency, the $4 billion spent on munitions and interceptors was specifically aimed at countering Iranian missile threats. These figures emerged during congressional discussions where senior defense officials noted the necessity of additional funding to sustain ongoing operations and to replenish depleted stockpiles.
In these briefings, it was revealed that around 4,000 Iranian targets have been hit, including missile launchers, naval vessels, and air defenses, which has significantly weakened Iran's capacity to retaliate. Adm. Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command (CENTCOM), reported a 90% decline in Iran's ballistic missile launches and an 83% reduction in drone attacks since hostilities began. However, Iran still has a substantial weapons arsenal, retaining an estimated 50% of its missile program.
Lawmakers are preparing for an additional budget request from the administration as the rapid pace of expenditure has elicited scrutiny across political lines. Critics have voiced concerns over the high consumption rate of costly interceptors, some of which are priced in the millions, warning of potential strains on the US defense industrial base and possible shortages in other strategic areas.
The conflict began with joint US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military targets but has since expanded throughout the Middle East. Iran has retaliated with ballistic missile and drone attacks, compelling the US to engage in expensive defensive measures. As discussions over war funding intensify in Washington, Pentagon officials stress the importance of maintaining pressure on Iranian capabilities while also balancing broader national defense priorities.
Tensions have escalated following the large-scale US and Israeli assault on Iran on February 28, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths, including Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, more than 150 schoolgirls, and senior military figures. Iran's retaliatory strikes have targeted US bases, diplomatic facilities, military personnel, and multiple Israeli cities, causing the conflict to continue escalating.
The situation has also sparked fears over global energy supplies due to a marked decrease in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial channel that transports approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily.
