America Has Spent Nearly $12B in Iran War, Top Advisor Says

The financial toll on the United States is significant, but the human and material costs are mounting as well. So far, at least 11 American soldiers have been killed, and five refueling aircraft have crashed during the conflict. In addition, U.S. B-52 bombers have been continuously dropping bombs across targets stretching from Tehran to Isfahan.

The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has been raging for more than 15 days. Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz caused global disruption, though it notably kept the route open for countries other than the U.S., Israel, and its allies—minimizing economic damage for the rest of the world. Still, as history shows, war brings only destruction and suffering, benefiting no one.

So far, the human and material cost for the U.S. is already high: at least 11 American soldiers have been killed, and five refueling aircraft have crashed during the conflict. On top of that, U.S. B-52 bombers have been continuously dropping bombs across targets from Tehran to Isfahan.

The financial toll is staggering as well. Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, revealed that the U.S. has spent approximately $12 billion on the ongoing war with Iran. Speaking on CBS News’ Face the Nation, Hassett said, “The latest figure I’ve been given is $12 billion.” When asked whether Congress would need to approve additional funding, Hassett added, “I think we currently have everything we need. Whether we’ll have to go back to Congress for more funding is a matter that Russell Vought and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) will examine.” (Russell Vought is the current OMB Director.)

Even after such enormous expenditures and destruction, one question remains: what has been achieved? In the pursuit of being a “peacekeeper,” when did U.S. President Donald Trump become a purveyor of conflict? And when will the true human cost of this war finally be recognized? How long will this battle, which has already brought so much devastation, continue?