WASHINGTON: The Pentagon is seeking an additional $200 billion in funding to support the ongoing conflict with Iran, a request that is expected to face intense scrutiny in United States Congress, which must approve any new spending.
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According to a senior administration official, the proposal has been sent to the White House, though details remain under discussion. Speaking at a press conference, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth did not confirm the exact amount, noting that figures could change as deliberations continue.
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“It takes money to kill bad guys,” Hegseth said, adding that the administration would work with lawmakers to secure necessary funding.
The proposed package comes on top of significant defence spending already approved last year under President Donald Trump’s tax and spending legislation. With US national debt surpassing $39 trillion, the request is likely to encounter resistance from both fiscal conservatives and Democrats demanding greater transparency.
Lawmakers have not formally authorised the war, contributing to growing unease on Capitol Hill about the scope and objectives of the military campaign. The funding request was first reported by The Washington Post.
Key members of Congress have signalled diverging views. Representative Ken Calvert, who oversees defence appropriations in the House, expressed support for additional funds to replenish military stockpiles. However, Representative Betty McCollum criticised the move, saying Congress would not provide a “blank check” without clear plans.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson described the current global environment as dangerous but said he had yet to review detailed proposals.
The request sets the stage for complex bipartisan negotiations, with divisions likely over defence priorities versus domestic spending needs.