The Pentagon disclosed on Wednesday that the ongoing conflict with Iran has cost the United States approximately $25 billion since the launch of Operation Epic Fury on February 28. This information was provided by interim Undersecretary of War for Financial Affairs, Jules Hurst, during a hearing before the House of Representatives.
"As of today, we're spending around $25 billion on Operation 'Epic Fury.' The bulk of this expenditure is due to munitions," explained Hurst during a budget hearing that also included War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, General Dan Caine.
According to Efe, Hurst clarified that "a portion of this figure is allocated to operational and maintenance expenses, as well as equipment replacement." He also mentioned that the Pentagon plans to submit a supplementary budget request through the White House to Congress "once they have a comprehensive assessment of the conflict's costs."
This marks the first time the Pentagon has provided an official figure on war spending, though previous estimates by think tanks had already anticipated such a hefty bill.
Financial Impact of the Conflict
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that the first 100 hours of the conflict cost at least $3.7 billion, roughly $900 million per day, and by the 12th day, the figure had already reached $16.5 billion.
The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) projected costs ranging from $16.2 billion to $23.4 billion until the ceasefire on April 8, when Trump declared strategic military objectives achieved.
The operation, launched jointly by the U.S. and Israel, targeted and destroyed nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, significantly degrading 90% of Iran’s missile capabilities, according to the Pentagon.
Continuing the Military Campaign
Hegseth advocated for the continuation of the operation, arguing that Iran "has not yet abandoned its nuclear ambitions," and downplayed the conflict's duration by comparing it to past wars.
"Let's not forget how long we spent in Afghanistan and Vietnam. We've only been involved in this existential struggle for the American people's security for two months. Iran cannot possess a nuclear bomb," he emphasized.
The War Secretary also criticized lawmakers opposing the conflict, labeling them as the "greatest adversary" at present.
"The biggest challenge and adversary we face right now is the reckless, ineffective, and defeatist rhetoric from Congressional Democrats and some Republicans," Hegseth stated.
Diplomatic and Economic Strain
Diplomatic talks are stalled, with Trump urging Iran on Wednesday to "get moving soon" after rejecting an Iranian proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz without addressing the nuclear issue.
Since April 13, the U.S. has maintained a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz with over 12 ships, 100 aircraft, and 10,000 troops, exerting pressure that costs Iran between $435 million and $500 million daily in trade losses.
American casualties in Operation Epic Fury range between 13 and 14 soldiers killed and over 380 injured, according to Central Command (CENTCOM) data.
Future Financial Projections
The Defense Department's budget for the 2027 fiscal year, presented at the same hearing, totals $1.5 trillion and includes a 7% pay raise for lower-ranking soldiers, compared to the historic $1 trillion approved for the 2026 fiscal year.
The Pentagon has yet to finalize a comprehensive evaluation of the total conflict cost, and the final amount could increase as negotiations with Tehran progress or are extended.
Key Questions About U.S. War Spending in Iran
What is the current cost of the U.S. conflict with Iran?
The conflict with Iran has cost the U.S. approximately $25 billion, primarily due to munitions expenditures.
How has the operation impacted Iran's capabilities?
The operation has significantly degraded Iran's missile capabilities by 90% and targeted key nuclear facilities.
What are the projected costs for the future?
The Pentagon has not finalized a total cost evaluation, and expenses may rise depending on the duration and outcome of negotiations with Iran.