Trump admin estimates US war on Iran cost $11.3bn in first 6 days: Report | US-Israel war on Iran News
Lawmakers Seek Clarity on Iran War Funding as Administration Projects $50 Billion Need
Published March 12, 2026
Officials from President Donald Trump’s administration informed Congress this week that the initial six days of the war in Iran cost the United States approximately $11.3 billion, according to a source familiar with the confidential briefing. This figure was presented to senators during a closed-door session as lawmakers have demanded more comprehensive information on the war’s financial implications.
Several congressional aides anticipate that the White House will soon submit a formal request to Congress for additional funding related to the conflict. Some sources suggest the request could reach up to $50 billion; however, there are indications that this estimate might be conservative.
As of now, the administration has not released an official assessment detailing the total costs of the military engagement or its anticipated duration. During a visit to Kentucky on Wednesday, President Trump declared, “we won” the war but emphasized that the U.S. would continue its military efforts to ensure the objectives are fully achieved. The $11.3 billion figure was first reported by The New York Times.
The Human Toll
The ongoing conflict has resulted in approximately 2,000 deaths, primarily among Iranian and Lebanese citizens. Hostilities have extended throughout the Middle East, prompting retaliatory actions from Iran that have impacted neighboring countries housing U.S. assets, contributing to a rise in energy prices.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reports that the “intensifying conflict” has injured or killed over 1,100 children, exacerbating an already dire situation for millions of children across the region. In Lebanon alone, relentless bombardments have displaced around 800,000 individuals.
Furthermore, administration officials stated that nearly $5.6 billion worth of munitions were employed during the initial two days of airstrikes, raising concerns among members of Congress about the depletion of U.S. military stockpiles as the defense sector struggles to meet existing demands.
Democratic lawmakers are calling for public testimony, under oath, from administration officials regarding the war strategy, including its expected duration and post-conflict plans for Iran. On Wednesday, President Trump suggested the conflict might conclude “soon,” claiming that there is “practically nothing left” for the U.S. military to target. However, he did not substantiate this assertion with evidence.
