The Pentagon has reportedly sought $200 billion to support military operations in Iran as President Trump weighs the possibility of deploying thousands of additional troops to the region.
The request follows a study estimating that the United States spent about $3.7 billion—roughly $891.4 million per day—during the first 100 hours of Operation Epic Fury, with costs climbing to $11 billion within the first week.
According to multiple sources cited by The Washington Post, the Pentagon has asked the White House to present the funding request to Congress. However, it remains uncertain whether the administration will proceed, as many Democrats oppose the war and some Republicans, including Senator Rand Paul, have historically voted against military spending—raising doubts about securing the 60 votes needed to overcome a filibuster.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is considering deploying thousands of troops to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, according to a U.S. official and other sources familiar with the discussions who spoke to Reuters.
The potential troop buildup could give the president more strategic options as the conflict in Iran enters its third week. Among the proposals under consideration is ensuring safe passage for oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a mission expected to rely mainly on air and naval forces.
However, sources say that securing the vital waterway could also involve sending U.S. troops to Iran’s coastline. Discussions have also included the possibility of deploying ground forces to Kharg Island, which handles about 90 percent of Iran’s oil exports.
One U.S. official cautioned that such an operation would carry significant risks, noting that Iran has the capability to strike the island using missiles and drones.
