RismadarVoice Reporters
October 29, 2026
The United States Department of Defence has estimated that the ongoing war against Iran has cost approximately $47.1 billion, raising fresh concerns over military expenditure, economic pressures and the financial consequences of the conflict ahead of next week’s congressional elections.
The estimate, provided to Congress by US Central Command, covers military operations and projected replacement costs through October 16, 2026, representing an increase of $3.5 billion from the $43.6 billion reported in early September.
According to Pentagon figures obtained by Reuters, Associated Press and other American media organisations, approximately $29 billion of the total is allocated to replacing missiles, bombs, air defence interceptors and other munitions used since the conflict began on February 28.
An additional $6.1 billion covers the estimated replacement of damaged or destroyed military equipment, including aircraft, while operational expenditure accounts for approximately $11.9 billion.
The operational breakdown includes about $7.6 billion attributed to the US Air Force, more than $2 billion to the Army and approximately $1.5 billion to naval operations.
However, the Pentagon’s estimate does not fully account for damage to American military installations across the Middle East following Iranian missile and drone attacks.
Consequently, the eventual financial burden could exceed the current estimate, particularly if Washington undertakes extensive reconstruction and equipment replacement.
The figures also include projected replacement expenditures that have not yet been funded, meaning the entire $47.1 billion does not represent money already disbursed.
The disclosure comes as President Donald Trump’s administration faces increasing political scrutiny over the prolonged conflict, which has disrupted global energy supplies and contributed to higher fuel costs.
The November 3 midterm elections will determine control of Congress, with the economic consequences of the war emerging as a significant issue in political debates.
Democratic lawmakers have criticised the administration over the conflict’s financial implications and demanded greater transparency concerning military expenditure.
Meanwhile, the White House is seeking congressional approval for a $95 billion funding package covering the Iran war and other priorities, alongside a proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget.
The administration has maintained that American military capabilities remain sufficient despite concerns about depleted weapons inventories.
With no comprehensive peace agreement reached, the latest Pentagon assessment highlights the continuing financial implications of the conflict for American taxpayers and the wider economy.
