US spending on the war with Iran has exceeded $47bn. That is more than 25% above the Pentagon's July estimate, Reuters reports, citing data from the US military department. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The estimate had not been published before. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to the agency's request for comment.
What the money covers
The calculations include operational costs of waging the war, including organizing flights and cyber support. Projected costs to replenish used munitions exceeded $29bn.
Another $6bn-plus will be needed to replace lost military equipment, including aircraft and drones.
At the same time, the US military's estimates do not fully account for future costs of restoring US bases damaged by Iranian missile and drone attacks.
In July, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth estimated the cost of the war at $37.5bn.
Ahead of the midterms
The data on rising costs emerged ahead of the midterm congressional elections on November 3. They will determine which party controls both chambers over the next two years.
According to Reuters, the unpopular conflict and its impact on global energy prices have reduced support for Republican candidates and President Donald Trump's approval rating. Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in both chambers.
Course of the war
The US and Israel started the war with Iran in February. Trump had expected a short conflict. Initially, US forces used expensive precision-guided missiles to suppress Iranian defenses and then switch to cheaper munitions.
However, the April truce allowed Iran to restore access to some underground storage facilities and bring some defense assets, missiles and drones back into service.
Later, Trump imposed a naval blockade on Iran to limit its oil revenues. He also left open the possibility of a new military operation after the elections.
According to US officials cited by Reuters, the Pentagon is preparing plans to resume intensive combat operations if ordered.