Iranian FM says US war expenditure four times higher than Pentagon claim

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that “the Pentagon is lying” about the cost of the war with Iran, insisting that the true figure is $100 billion, which is four times higher than the US official estimate.

"The Pentagon is lying. [Israeli Prime Minister] Netanyahu's gamble has directly cost America $100b so far, four times what is claimed," Araghchi wrote on X.

"Indirect costs for U.S. taxpayers are FAR higher. Monthly bill for each American household is $500 and rising fast," he continued, attaching a Gallup chart showing an increase in the number of Americans who say their financial situation is getting worse and White House data on spiralling US national debt.

"Israel First always means America Last."

His remarks contradict statements made by US officials earlier this week. During a congressional hearing on Wednesday, US Under Secretary of Defense Jules Hurst said Washington has spent about $25 billion so far on the war with Iran.