Hegseth Defends $25 Billion Iran War Cost, Says War Powers Clock Paused

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth told Congress the Iran conflict has cost the United States at least $25 billion and argued the 60‑day War Powers Act deadline pauses when fighting stops. He also said General Dan Cain noted Russian assistance to Iran, though Cain gave no details.

The remarks came during the second day of public testimony before the Senate Armed Forces Committee on Thursday, following a House hearing the previous day. Pentagon officials have said the war began on February 28 after US‑Israel strikes on Iran.

Lawmakers have questioned the expense, the legal basis for continued action, and reports of civilian harm, while the administration says munitions stockpiles remain adequate.

Hegseth also told the committee that US munitions stockpiles remain “in good shape,” countering claims that prolonged strikes have depleted critical weapons.

Hegseth cited a Pentagon figure that the United States has spent at least $25 billion on the Iran war to date, covering operations, logistics, and support. He said the number reflects costs incurred since the first strikes.

He argued that the 60‑day clock under the War Powers Act does not run while fighting is paused, noting that attacks have largely ceased since April 8 as cease‑fire talks stalled. The statute requires the president to halt operations or gain congressional approval after 60 days of continuous hostilities.

General Dan Cain told the committee that Russia has provided assistance to Iran in the conflict, but he declined to elaborate on the nature or scale of that support. He said there is “definitely some action there” without giving specifics.

Senators pressed Hegseth on strikes that hit schools and hospitals, asking why the Pentagon cut its civilian protection division by 90 percent. Hegseth replied the department still has every resource needed to avoid civilian harm.

The $25 billion figure puts the Iran war among the most expensive recent overseas engagements for the United States, raising questions about budget priorities and oversight. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed concern that the spending lacks clear accountability for equipment losses and potential civilian damage.

Hegseth’s interpretation of the War Powers Act could affect how Congress evaluates the legality of continued military action; if accepted, it would allow the administration to extend operations without a new vote as long as fighting remains intermittent. Critics argue the statute’s language does not support such a pause.

Watch for a Senate vote on a war powers resolution next week and the Pentagon’s upcoming budget request, which will clarify how the $25 billion total accounts for lost or damaged assets.