Washington: (RightNow) According to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the ongoing war with Iran has cost the US $37.5 billion so far. This amount is $8 billion more than previous estimates, presented to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Pete Hegseth stated that Congress needs to approve an additional $87 billion for the Pentagon. Of this, $67 billion will be allocated for military operations in the Middle East, aiding current and future military training.

The White House requested a $1.5 trillion budget for the Pentagon for the next fiscal year, which would push US defense spending to record levels. Without additional funds, there will be a financial deficit.

It is noteworthy that Pete Hegseth blamed the previous administration of President Joe Biden for the situation. He claimed that inadequate funding during the previous term increased current war costs.

There are significant disagreements between Democrats and Republicans in the committee. The Republican Party’s conservatives want cuts in other sectors in exchange for defense spending, while Democrats oppose the additional budget.