Hegseth confirms $200 billion Pentagon request for Iran war

Published March 19, 2026 3:04pm ET



Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Thursday confirmed the Pentagon is seeking at least $200 billion in additional federal funding for the Iran war, sparking scrutiny from lawmakers. 

“As far as $200 billion, I think that number could move, obviously. It takes money to kill bad guys,” he told reporters, explaining that the Trump administration will ask Congress for additional funding to finance the war. 

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.