Iran War’s First 6 Days Cost US Tk 1.39 Lakh Crore: Pentagon

The U.S. Department of Defense has informed Congress that the first six days of military operations against Iran—codenamed Operation Epic Fury—cost more than $11.3 billion, according to officials who briefed the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense in a closed-door session on Tuesday.

Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) told reporters Wednesday that he believes the actual figure is significantly higher, as the current estimate excludes key costs such as replacing expended munitions.

“If all you’re looking at is the replacement cost for the munitions used, it’s already well beyond $10 billion,” Coons said.

A Pentagon spokesperson declined to comment on the closed briefing or provide a running total, stating: “We do not comment on closed-door discussions or matters. Regarding the cost of Operation Epic Fury, we won’t know the cost until the mission is complete.”

The briefing was first reported by The New York Times.

The $11.3 billion figure covers only the initial phase of the U.S.-Israeli campaign, now in its 11th day. The administration is preparing a supplemental funding request to Congress to cover escalating war expenses, with the appropriations subcommittee expected to play a central role in shaping the legislation.

Human and Material Toll Continues to Rise

The conflict has inflicted heavy casualties across the region:

• Iran: More than 1,200 people killed, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society
• Israel: 13 deaths
• United Arab Emirates: 6 deaths
• Lebanon: 570 deaths, according to the Lebanese Prime Minister’s office
• U.S.: 7 service members killed and 140 wounded

Tensions remain high after at least three ship attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command reported Wednesday that it had “eliminated” 16 Iranian minelayers and multiple naval vessels near the strait.

President Donald Trump gave conflicting assessments Tuesday, first stating the war would end “very soon,” then suggesting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s view that it was “only the beginning” could also be correct. “I think you could say both,” Trump said.