Pentagon Seeks $80 Billion From Congress to Fund Iran War and Military Operations
WASHINGTON — The United States Department of Defense has informed members of Congress that it needs approximately $80 billion in additional funding, with most of the money expected to cover costs associated with the ongoing US war against Iran.
According to reporting by the Associated Press, Pentagon officials briefed senators on the funding requirement as the Trump administration seeks a major increase in military spending. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly been lobbying lawmakers on Capitol Hill ahead of a formal White House funding request.
The proposed funding would be added to President Donald Trump's broader defense budget plans, which already call for significant increases in military spending.
Reuters, citing a Wall Street Journal report, said Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg told lawmakers the Pentagon requires additional resources to support wartime operations, munitions replenishment, ship deployments, personnel costs and other military obligations.
The request is expected to face resistance in Congress, where some lawmakers remain skeptical about the financial burden of the conflict and have questioned the administration's war strategy. Bloomberg Government reported that congressional aides were informed of the expected request, although the White House has not yet formally submitted a supplemental funding package.
The funding debate comes as Washington attempts to maintain military readiness while also supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a lasting peace agreement with Iran following recent ceasefire negotiations.