The U.S. war with Iran has cost an estimated $37.5 billion, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who provided the updated figure during testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday. Hegseth said the estimate includes spending since the conflict began in late February as well as projected costs through Sept. 30, the end of the federal fiscal year. The total marks a significant increase from previous Pentagon estimates and comes as the administration seeks billions of dollars in supplemental funding to sustain military operations.

Lawmakers from both parties questioned Pentagon officials about the rising cost of the conflict, its long-term strategy and the need for additional appropriations. Hegseth defended the administration's funding request, saying the money would support ongoing operations, maintenance, military pay and other wartime expenses. The hearing also addressed the toll on U.S. forces, with lawmakers reviewing the growing number of service members killed and wounded during months of fighting as Congress weighs broader defense spending proposals.