Pete Hegseth says the renewed conflict with Iran has now cost an estimated 37.5 billion US dollars, prompting the Pentagon to seek additional emergency funding from Congress for military operations in the Middle East. He told senators that further resources are needed to sustain operations, replenish equipment and support military personnel, while critics questioned the growing financial burden and the war’s long-term direction. The congressional hearing became heated as lawmakers debated military spending, with anti-war protesters interrupting proceedings. Disagreement also remains over the true cost of the conflict, with some suggesting the overall figure is significantly higher than current estimates. Meanwhile, the fighting continues despite the collapse of an earlier ceasefire, and American military casualties now stand at eighteen. The continuing conflict highlights the human, financial and political costs of war, as Trump’s government faces difficult decisions over security, diplomacy and the pursuit of lasting peace. In contrast to his attitude to Iran’s nuclear programme, Trump has signed a landmark deal with Saudi Arabia which will reportedly allow US firms to run nuclear power in the Gulf kingdom: see