Iran War Cost US $38 Billion and Depleted Missile Stockpile, Report 2026

The Iran war cost the US at least $38 billion and significantly depleted its missile stockpile, according to a new report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). The non-partisan report, released less than two months before the midterm elections, highlights the financial and strategic toll of the conflict.

Economic Impact of the Iran War

The CBO's estimate, requested by Democratic congressman Brendan Boyle, provides some of the first public accounting of the war's cost. The report found that Iranian strikes damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings and structures, further adding to the financial burden. The $38 billion figure covers military operations, munitions, and reconstruction efforts.

This comes one day after the Pentagon's inspector general released its own review, stating that the US spent $22.3 billion on munitions alone through June 30, with total spending at $33.4 billion. The Pentagon report also noted "strategic inventory shortfalls and revealed industrial base bottlenecks for munitions resupply."

Missile Stockpile Depletion

The war has left the US stockpile of defensive missiles so depleted that it could take five years to rebuild, according to the CBO. This shortfall poses a significant risk to national security and may require increased defense spending in the coming years.

The Pentagon's report did not address an internal investigation into the Minab school strike on the first day of the war, which killed 156 people, including 120 children. Critics accuse the Pentagon of burying the results that would show negligence in compiling targeting data.

Comparison of Cost Estimates

Political Implications Ahead of Midterms

With midterm elections approaching, the war and the cost of living crisis are likely to hurt Republicans at the polls. The report's release adds to the political pressure, as voters weigh the human and financial costs of the conflict.

• Financial burden: $38 billion and counting.
• Strategic impact: Missile stockpile depleted, five years to rebuild.
• Political fallout: Could influence midterm election outcomes.
• Accountability concerns: Pentagon criticized for lack of transparency on civilian casualties.

FAQ

Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of where is it hide spy camera house, antitheft systems cars, guard dog breeds protect home, search camouflaged safe home, and antibumping locks comparison security guide. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of ip camera or cctv camera which one choose each case, what security systems hotels, locks on market electric scooters, gadgets prevent being robbed on street, and security systems protect home. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.