The US Department of Defense has revealed that the budget spent on the war with Iran has surged past $47.1 billion, or about 1.59 trillion baht, exceeding July's estimates by more than 25%. Most costs involve procurement of replacement weapons, military equipment, and lost drones, amid public dissatisfaction over soaring oil prices—creating strong political pressure on Donald Trump's administration ahead of next week's midterm elections.
Reuters reported that the US military has already spent over $47.1 billion, approximately 1.59 trillion baht, on the war with Iran, citing the latest Department of Defense estimates obtained but not yet publicly released. This marks an increase of more than 25% from the $37.5 billion figure Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth disclosed in July.
Data from the US Central Command (CENTCOM) obtained by CBS News indicates that as of mid-October, war expenses amount to at least $47.1 billion. This includes about $29 billion for procurement of weapons and ammunition used, roughly $6.1 billion for lost military equipment replacement, and approximately $11.9 billion in additional operational costs including personnel support.
However, these figures do not cover repair costs for US bases in the Middle East damaged by Iranian missile and drone attacks. The US Congressional Budget Office estimated last month that the war could add $2–3 billion in monthly expenses as long as fighting continues, partly due to the need to acquire interceptor missiles to defend against Iranian attacks.
The conflict began in February when President Donald Trump launched military operations alongside Israel. Initially, the US used expensive precision-guided missiles to strike Iranian defense systems before intending to switch to lower-cost weapons such as air-dropped bombs. A ceasefire in April allowed Iran to restore some defenses and redeploy certain missiles and drones, according to the report.
Subsequently, the Trump administration imposed a naval blockade on Iran to restrict oil export revenues. The US president indicated the possibility of resuming military operations after the 3 November midterm elections if Iran refuses to reach an agreement. Unnamed US officials said the Pentagon has prepared contingency plans for heavy combat if ordered.
The rising costs come as the Republican Party faces mounting political pressure ahead of the midterm elections, which will determine congressional majorities for the next two years. Higher global energy prices driven by the war are affecting the popularity of Republican candidates and President Trump's approval ratings. The Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both congressional chambers.
Meanwhile, the US Defense Department inspector warned last month that extensive ammunition and weapon usage in the war has depleted some reserve stockpiles to levels that could impact military strategy. This has prompted the Pentagon to accelerate production capacity. However, the Trump administration disputes claims that the military is facing weapons shortages.
Earlier, the US government requested Congress approve tens of billions of dollars in additional defense funding, partly related to the Iran war. This proposal has not yet been approved. Meanwhile, Democratic members have called for greater transparency from the Defense Department regarding war expenditures.