US Faces Massive Costs in Early Days of Iran Conflict

(MENAFN) The United States has spent more than $11.3 billion in just the first six days of its conflict with Iran, Pentagon officials reportedly told lawmakers during a closed briefing on Capitol Hill.

According to reports, the estimate shared with Congress on Tuesday represents the most detailed assessment provided so far since the US and Israel launched military operations against Iran.

Officials noted that this figure does not account for numerous other expenses, such as the buildup of troops and military equipment prior to the initial strikes, meaning the total cost is expected to rise significantly as further calculations are completed.

Earlier briefings to Congress revealed that approximately $5.6 billion worth of munitions were used during the first two days of the campaign, reflecting a much higher consumption rate than previously disclosed publicly. The initial bombardment included weapons like AGM-154 glide bombs, which cost between $578,000 and $836,000 each. Reports indicate the US military is considering shifting to less expensive ordnance, such as Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits, for future operations.

The conflict began on Feb. 28 when the United States and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran.

Iranian authorities report that the strikes have killed over 1,300 people, including the country’s then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, more than 150 schoolgirls, and senior military officials.

In response, Iran has carried out drone and missile attacks targeting cities in Israel as well as locations across the region that host US military assets, according to reports.

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