The Pentagon says the United States’ military operations in its conflict with Iran have now cost about $29 billion (about KSh 3.75 trillion), as lawmakers demand greater transparency over how the war is being funded and its broader economic impact.
The updated figure was presented to Congress by acting Pentagon comptroller Jules W. Hurst III, who said the estimate had risen from $25 billion in late April after fresh assessments of equipment losses and operational spending.
“At the time of testimony, it was $25 billion. But the joint staff team and the comptroller team are constantly looking at estimates, and now we think it is closer to 29,” Hurst told lawmakers, according to the Guardian.
He explained that the increase reflects rising costs of maintaining U.S. forces in the Middle East and replacing military equipment damaged or used in combat operations.
“That’s because of updated repair and replacement of equipment costs and also general operational costs to keep people in theatre,” he added.
The war escalated after months of rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, triggered by attacks on U.S. military positions in the Middle East attributed to Iran-backed groups, and retaliatory American strikes on Iranian-linked military infrastructure.
According to U.S. officials, the situation quickly expanded from limited regional operations into a broader military campaign after both sides carried out direct strikes, raising fears of a wider Middle East war affecting global oil routes and security.
The Pentagon says the current spending figure covers operations since the escalation began in February, including airstrikes, missile defence, troop deployments, and logistics support across multiple bases in the region.
Rising financial pressure
The Pentagon’s $29 billion estimate—equivalent to roughly KSh 3.75 trillion—has become a major political issue in Washington, with lawmakers questioning the lack of detailed breakdowns of war spending.
Defense officials acknowledge that the figure does not include longer-term costs such as reconstruction of damaged bases, veteran care, or broader economic impacts linked to higher global oil prices.
Military analysts say the total financial burden is likely to grow if the conflict continues, as ammunition use, troop rotations, and equipment replacement costs increase.
The war has also contributed to volatility in global energy markets, adding inflationary pressure internationally as shipping routes in the Middle East remain under threat.
