US has spent $37.5 billion on Iran war, as Hegseth faces grilling on testosterone policy and troop deaths
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified that the war in Iran has cost $37.5 billion, while facing scrutiny over military budget proposals and a new testosterone replacement therapy policy. The hearing was repeatedly interrupted by protesters opposing the conflict.
Why it matters
The rising financial cost of the conflict and controversial internal military policies are creating significant political friction within the US Senate.
Protesters interrupted Pete Hegseth's opening remarks to a US Senate hearing. ( Reuters: Eric Lee )
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the war against Iran has cost $US37.5 billion ($53.6 billion) so far.
A Senate Appropriations Committee is questioning Mr Hegseth as part of the US budget process.
The Republican budget proposal is expected to flow through the reconciliation process, which enables the majority to approve the plan on its own over the objections of Democrats in the minority.
Link copied Share Share article The United States' war in Iran has cost $US37.5 billion ($53.6 billion) so far, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says, an increase of almost $8 billion ($11.4 billion) since the last public estimate.
Mr Hegseth told a Senate hearing the figure also included anticipated costs through until September 30.
Under the policy US troops will be offered the chance to undergo testosterone replacement therapy.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in