Washington: The ongoing conflict between the Pentagon and Iran is intensifying, with the U.S. now seeking a massive $200 billion funding boost from the United States Congress to sustain and expand its war efforts.
According to reports, the request comes just three weeks into the conflict, signaling a possible escalation if approved. The United States Central Command claims that U.S. forces have already launched attacks on 7,800 targets inside Iran, destroying or damaging over 1,000 aircraft and more than 120 naval vessels.
Despite the aggressive campaign, the cost has been steep. The U.S. reportedly spent $1.1 billion in the first week alone, and total war expenses could soon exceed half of Iran’s GDP, estimated at around $356 billion.
The battlefield has also exposed significant setbacks for the U.S. military:
At least 16 aircraft, including advanced drones, have been lost.
10 MQ-9 Reaper drones were shot down in Iranian strikes.
A KC-135 tanker crash during refueling killed six American personnel.
Three F-15 jets were destroyed in a friendly fire incident in Kuwait.
Iranian missile strikes damaged five U.S. aircraft stationed in Saudi Arabia.
A cutting-edge F-35 fighter jet was forced into an emergency landing after sustaining damage.
Even after weeks of intense operations, the U.S. has failed to secure full air dominance or dismantle Iran’s air defense systems—raising concerns over a prolonged and costly conflict ahead.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on Congress, whose decision could determine the next phase of this high-stakes war.
