The Iraq War cost the U.S. around $3 trillion through 2021, per Brown University's Costs of War — vastly exceeding the Bush administration's initial $50-60B estimate. That includes direct military spending, long-term veteran care, and interest on war debt.
Likely yes — Iran's larger military, geography, and air defenses would drive costs far higher. Early estimates show the current conflict burning $2.4B/week, and CSIS pegs 12 days at $16.5B. A prolonged war could easily eclipse Iraq's $3T when adjusted for inflation and long-term costs.
The Iraq War cost the U.S. around $3 trillion through 2021, per Brown University's Costs of War — vastly exceeding the Bush administration's initial $50-60B estimate. That includes direct military spending, long-term veteran care, and interest on war debt.
Would you expect the Iran War to exceed the Iraq war costs, given inflation and the bigger Iran population?
Likely yes — Iran's larger military, geography, and air defenses would drive costs far higher. Early estimates show the current conflict burning $2.4B/week, and CSIS pegs 12 days at $16.5B. A prolonged war could easily eclipse Iraq's $3T when adjusted for inflation and long-term costs.