The first 100 hours of the US military campaign against Iran have reportedly cost Washington approximately $3.7 billion, averaging nearly $891.4 million per day, according to a report by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The Washington DC-based think tank highlighted that these figures cover the initial high-intensity phase of the conflict, which relied on sophisticated and costly munitions.
CSIS noted that the beginning of an air campaign typically demands more expensive weaponry, explaining that as the United States shifts to lower-cost munitions in the coming days, operational costs may decline. However, the report emphasized that the total unbudgeted expenditure will still be substantial. “The Department of Defense will need additional funds at some point because the level of budget cuts needed to fund this conflict internally would likely be politically and operationally difficult,” the think tank stated.
With both US President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicating that the war could extend over several weeks, CSIS warned that the Defense Department’s existing budget allocations are insufficient to sustain the conflict over an extended period. The report suggests that Congress may need to approve additional funding to maintain operational capabilities, as the cost of continued air and missile strikes, logistics, and personnel support will likely exceed current budgetary provisions.
The CSIS analysis underscores the financial strain that rapid escalation in Iran could place on US military resources. While initial strikes carry a premium due to advanced precision weaponry, extended operations could further increase the fiscal burden if the conflict continues without a clear endgame. The report serves as a cautionary note to policymakers regarding both the operational and economic implications of prolonged engagement in the region.
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