Photo illustration: Allie Carl/Axios. Photo: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images & PhotoQuest via Getty Images Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed today that the Pentagon will ask Congress for more money to wage war in Iran, Axios' Dave Lawler reports. - The Washington Post reported last night that the Pentagon asked the White House to request more than $200 billion. (Gift link.)
- Hegseth said that figure "could move," and that the Pentagon wants to boost weapons production to ensure adequate stockpiles.
🎙️ Hegseth, at a press conference this morning: "Obviously it takes money to kill bad guys, so we're going back to Congress and our folks there to ensure that we're properly funded for what's been done, for what we may have to do in the future, ensure that our ammunition is refilled, and not just refilled, but above and beyond." 🤨 A request on that scale would likely face stiff opposition from many Democrats and some Republicans. - The war in Iran is unpopular, and the Pentagon already has a $1 trillion budget.
- The cost of the war has reportedly run into the billions — but nowhere near $200 billion.
🪖 Hegseth's request could turn into a referendum on the war. - Appearing on Fox Business, Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) called the $200 billion figure "a little tall."
- "They do need to come to ... Capitol Hill and tell us what that money is going to be spent on." Go deeper.
🚢 Meanwhile: Six U.S. allies announced their support for a potential coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz — but didn't commit to sending naval vessels or other resources. - For now, it's largely a gesture to placate President Trump, who has railed against allies for declining to help secure the vital shipping corridor. More from Barak Ravid.
| 
No comments:
Post a Comment