Trump adviser cites rising economic toll amid uncertainty over Middle East strikes
The United States has spent $12 billion on its war in Iran since launching joint strikes with Israel on February 28, according to Trump’s top economic adviser, Kevin Hassett. The figure highlights growing domestic concerns over the economic impact of the Middle East conflict.
Hassett, speaking on CBS’s Face the Nation, clarified that the $12 billion reflects current spending, not a projected total for the entire war. The first week alone reportedly cost over $5 billion in munitions, underscoring the high financial stakes of the operation.
Despite the rising costs, Hassett dismissed concerns over a US economic slowdown, pointing to the country’s oil production capacity and market expectations of a swift resolution. “America is not going to have its economy harmed by what the Iranians are doing,” he said, noting that the US now produces abundant domestic energy.
Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth warned that the bombardment of Iran is expected to intensify, suggesting war costs will continue to climb.
The Trump administration has faced criticism over mission creep and unclear objectives. Initially focused on dismantling Iran’s nuclear program, strikes have expanded to target missiles and now threaten Iran’s oil infrastructure along the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for global oil supplies.
Senators, including Chuck Schumer and Chris Van Hollen, have expressed concern over the lack of clarity on war goals. The conflict has already claimed 1,444 Iranian lives, 13 US soldiers, and spread violence to Lebanon, while Gulf countries continue to face repeated Iranian drone attacks.
Some nations, including India, have begun negotiating directly with Tehran to secure safe passage for oil tankers, bypassing Washington amid ongoing tensions.
Source: Al Jazeera