US War with Iran Costs Billions, Faces Criticism Ahead of Elections

The conflict with Iran has already cost the United States approximately $33 billion, according to Defense Secretary Hegseth, who testified before the Senate. He was defending President Trump's request for an additional $79 billion for the defense budget, largely earmarked for the ongoing war. The accuracy of the $33 billion figure is uncertain, as the Department of Defense has not detailed its calculation method. Earlier, a Reuters source indicated the war, which began on February 28, cost $10 billion in its first six days. With parliamentary elections approaching in November, the war's escalating costs and the administration's perceived inability to end it have become significant election issues. Republicans hold narrow majorities in both houses of Congress, which are at risk of being lost. Some Republicans in the House of Representatives are reportedly considering voting against the additional war funding. Despite President Trump's repeated claims of victory and an imminent end to the conflict, the war has persisted, leading Democratic Senator Patty Murray to express concern about it becoming an "endless war." Critics point to contradictory statements from the administration regarding the war's status. A recent AP poll indicates that a majority of Americans disapprove of the Trump administration's handling of Iran. The conflict has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to global fuel price increases, and is seen by some as a violation of Trump's campaign promise to avoid prolonged military engagements. Recent escalations include daily U.S. attacks on Iran aimed at degrading its ability to target commercial shipping, and Iranian attacks on U.S. military bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. The war has resulted in thousands of Iranian casualties, with 18 U.S. service members killed and 450 wounded.