The Pentagon has requested $70 billion in emergency funding from Congress to sustain U.S. military operations against Iran, as the conflict's estimated cost has risen to $37.5 billion. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, urging lawmakers to approve the funding to address critical shortfalls in munitions, equipment, and operational costs.
The request comes amid escalating tensions, with the U.S. and Iran exchanging strikes for 10 consecutive days following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement. The Pentagon has redirected eight commercial vessels and disabled one Iranian ship in response to attacks on commercial vessels. The war has resulted in the deaths of 17 U.S. service members and injuries to nearly 100 others.
Hegseth emphasized the urgency of the request, stating that without the funds, the military would face disruptions in training and operations. The administration's $87 billion supplemental budget request includes $67 billion for the Department of War, with $45.9 billion allocated for defense production and modernization, and $21.3 billion for urgent operational needs. The request also includes $15.1 billion for core operational costs and $2 billion to replace damaged equipment.
Lawmakers expressed bipartisan skepticism, with Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) warning that the conflict could become another 'forever war.' Protesters interrupted the hearing, calling for an end to the war and criticizing U.S. military actions in the region.