📈 US-Iran War Costs Hit US$ 12 Bn Amid Economic Uncertainty

The US administration has confirmed a US$ 12 Bn expenditure within the first three weeks of the conflict with Iran, following joint strikes initiated on February 28. • Overall Figures & Costs • Total spent to date: US$ 12 Bn (Provisional). • Munitions expenditure: Over US$ 5 Bn in the first week alone. • Human Toll: 1,444 deaths in Iran; 13 US soldiers killed and 140+ wounded. • Market & Energy Impact • Global Risk: Threats to the Strait of Hormuz jeopardize 20% of world oil supplies. • Energy Prices: Despite US claims of energy independence, domestic fuel costs are rising; however, markets anticipate a swift resolution. • Shipping: Major economies like India are bypassing US mediation to negotiate directly with Tehran for safe tanker passage. • Strategic Outlook • Mission Scope: Objectives have shifted from dismantling nuclear programs to targeting oil infrastructure. • Future Spending: Defense officials warn of a "dramatic surge" in bombardments, indicating escalating costs. • Global Stability: Conflict has spread to Lebanon, with ongoing drone strikes affecting Gulf countries. Based on provisional data as of March 17, 2026.