US Escalates Iran Strikes as Pentagon Seeks $87 Billion in Additional Military Funding

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US Escalates Iran Strikes as Pentagon Seeks $87 Billion in Additional Military Funding

· 3 hours ago

The United States has resumed intensive military strikes against Iran for an eleventh consecutive night, marking a sharp escalation following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement from April. President Trump has intensified the campaign by threatening to strike "Pickaxe Mountain," a suspected underground nuclear enrichment facility near Natanz, as the two nations compete for control of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The renewed bombardment signals the complete breakdown of previous diplomatic arrangements and a return to open military confrontation.

The conflict carries substantial financial consequences, with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth informing the Senate Appropriations Committee that military operations have already cost $37.5 billion. The Pentagon is requesting an additional $87 billion in funding to sustain the campaign, with $67 billion specifically earmarked for Middle East operations. Hegseth's testimony marked his first appearance before Congress since fighting resumed, underscoring the significance Congress is placing on the ongoing military commitment.

  • US executes 11th consecutive night of airstrikes as April ceasefire agreement collapses
  • Trump threatens to target suspected underground nuclear facility near Natanz; both sides contest Strait of Hormuz control
  • Pentagon seeks $87bn additional funding; existing Iran conflict has cost $37.5bn to date

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