Reuters, citing informed sources on 11/3, reported that officials in President Donald Trump's administration held a closed-door meeting with senators on 10/3 and were repeatedly asked for more information regarding the ongoing conflict in Iran.

The group of officials estimated that the first six days of the war with Iran, which began on 28/2, cost at least 11,3 billion USD. This figure does not include many expenses related to preparing for the attacks.

A Tomahawk missile launched from the USS Thomas Hudner at an undisclosed location on 1/3. *Photo: AFP*

Some congressional aides stated they anticipate the White House will soon submit a request to Congress for additional war funding. Some officials suggested this request could amount to 50 billion USD.

The Trump administration has not yet provided a public assessment of the cost of the conflict in Iran or a clear intention regarding its expected duration. On 11/3, Trump stated that the US "had won" the war but would continue its involvement to "complete the mission."

Previously, US defense officials also informed Congress that approximately 5,6 billion USD worth of ammunition was used in just the first two days of fighting in the Middle East.

The Middle East has been embroiled in warfare since the US and Israel launched airstrikes against Iran on 28/2. Iran retaliated by launching missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at Israel and US bases in Arab countries in the region. The conflict has resulted in approximately 2.000 deaths, primarily in Iran, and affected many regional nations.

By Ngoc Anh (Reuters, AFP)