The cost of the Iran war to American taxpayers has reached an estimated $47.1 billion, according to the latest Pentagon figures submitted to Congress, as the conflict becomes a major issue ahead of next week’s midterm elections.

The US Central Command estimate, dated October 16, represents a $3.5 billion increase from early September. The war, launched by the United States and Israel in late February, has raised concerns over military spending and rising energy prices.

President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of renewed strikes after the elections while deploying additional military resources to the Middle East. An AP-NORC poll found most voters want Congress to prioritise ending the conflict.

The Trump administration is seeking approval for a $1.5 trillion military budget and a separate $95 billion package to support the war and other priorities. Democrats have unsuccessfully attempted to end the conflict through legislation.

Replacing munitions accounts for about $29 billion of the war’s cost, while operational expenses total $11.9 billion and equipment losses another $6 billion. The Air Force’s expenses stand at $7.6 billion, the Army’s exceed $2 billion and the Navy’s are estimated at $1.45 billion.

The estimate excludes damage to US bases across the Middle East from Iranian missile and drone attacks. The Pentagon reports 21 service members killed and 865 wounded, including 18 deaths linked to Iranian strikes, aircraft crashes or drone disposal.

Meanwhile, a third aircraft carrier and thousands of additional troops are heading to the region, while some US embassies have reduced staffing amid concerns over threats to American personnel.

Clarify the war timeline and costsResolve the military cost breakdown