Pentagon says Iran war has cost US taxpayers $47bn: What that means
Summary
The Pentagon told Congress that the U.S. war with Iran had cost at least $47.1 billion as of October 16. The estimate includes operating costs and projected replacement costs for used munitions, but excludes fuel and repairs to damaged U.S. bases in the Middle East.Key Facts
- The Pentagon estimate includes $29 billion projected to replace munitions and other military equipment used in the war.
- Since the war began on February 28, the Air Force spent $7.6 billion, the Navy spent $1.5 billion, and the Army spent $2.1 billion, according to the report.
- The estimate also includes $6.1 billion to replace damaged aircraft and munitions, $645 million for transport and support for commandos, and $24.5 million for medical support.
- The report says more than 50,000 U.S. troops are stationed in the Middle East.
- The Pentagon has acknowledged 18 U.S. service member deaths, while The Washington Post cited officials who put the toll at at least 22; a Pentagon database listed 865 personnel wounded.
- Five Democratic senators wrote to the head of U.S. Central Command on October 19, demanding disclosure of the war’s full cost.
- The article says Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted oil and liquefied natural gas shipments and contributed to higher energy costs; U.S. diesel prices nearly doubled.
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