Pentagon seeks nearly $70B more for Iran war as stockpiles dwindle

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the Senate Appropriations Committee the Iran war has cost about $37.5 billion so far and that roughly $67 billion more is needed to sustain operations, nearly doubling the current funding; the White House had previously sought about $87.6 billion for 2026–27. Stockpiles of key munitions—Patriots, THAADs, SM-3s, and PrSMs—are at or below 50% of prewar levels, prompting replenishment, procurement, and maintenance costs. The conflict has produced casualties, sent oil prices higher, and contributed to inflation and rising interest rates, with the 2027 defense budget poised to set a new spending record if approved.