The Pentagon has informed senators that it requires approximately $80 billion, primarily for the U.S. military operations in Iran. This request is part of a larger military spending increase sought by President Donald Trump. The White House Office of Management and Budget has not yet formally submitted this request to Congress. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been engaging with lawmakers, and a deputy defense secretary communicated the funding request to senators last week.
The request for additional funding comes amid political skepticism regarding the deal Trump negotiated with Iran to end the conflict. The White House has requested a total of $1.5 trillion for the Pentagon, representing nearly a 50% increase over the current fiscal year’s budget. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that a supplemental spending request for the war is anticipated, stating that they will assess the situation once it is presented.
Thune emphasized the need to replenish munitions that have been depleted due to ongoing military actions. Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg has discussed the proposal with several senators and has notified congressional committees that the request has been sent to the Office of Management and Budget.
However, the funding proposal may face opposition from lawmakers who are hesitant to support the war and are concerned about the financial burden on American families. Democratic Senator Patty Murray expressed her concerns during a hearing, highlighting the opposition to spending taxpayer dollars on the conflict.
In addition to the Iran funding, Republicans aim to secure about $1.1 trillion through the regular appropriations process and an additional $350 billion through a party-line vote later this summer. The requested amount is significantly higher than the $29 billion estimate provided by Hegseth during previous testimony, which primarily covered munitions replacement and operational costs. It is also lower than the initial $200 billion estimate presented at the war's outset.
Senator Brian Schatz expressed skepticism about the proposed $80 billion figure, suggesting that the actual costs could be higher. Meanwhile, Senator Jim Banks framed the funding as an investment in the defense industrial base. Senator Jack Reed emphasized that any supplemental funding for Iran should be part of a broader agreement on total spending for both defense and non-defense programs. Senator John Hoeven mentioned his efforts to include disaster aid and agricultural support in the funding package to increase its chances of passing.
Hegseth did not respond to questions from reporters regarding the war's costs but noted the importance of addressing the threat posed by Iran's potential nuclear capabilities.