US lawmakers were informed this week that the first six days of the American military campaign against Iran have cost at least $11.3 billion.
The estimate was shared during a closed-door briefing for members of the United States Senate on Tuesday. Officials noted that the figure represents only early operational costs and does not reflect the total financial impact of the conflict.
The fighting began on February 28 with joint airstrikes carried out by the United States Armed Forces and Israel Defense Forces. Since then, the conflict has expanded into Lebanon, disrupting regional stability as well as global energy markets and shipping routes. Around 2,000 people have reportedly been killed so far, most of them in Iran and Lebanon.
Congressional aides said the White House is expected to seek additional funding from lawmakers in the coming weeks. Estimates of the potential request vary widely, with some officials suggesting it could reach $50 billion, though others believe the final amount may be higher.
Speaking during a visit to Kentucky on Wednesday, Trump said the United States had “won” the war so far but added that U.S. forces would remain engaged to “finish the job.”
Administration officials also told lawmakers that roughly $5.6 billion worth of munitions were used during the first two days of airstrikes alone.
Some members of Congress have raised concerns that the ongoing conflict could place further pressure on U.S. military stockpiles, which are already strained. Lawmakers have called for public hearings to discuss the expected length of the war and the administration’s plans for Iran after the conflict.
Last week, Trump met executives from seven major defense contractors as the United States Department of Defense moved to replenish weapons and equipment used in the opening phase of the campaign.
