US Spends $12 Billion in First Two Weeks of Military Action Against Iran, Official Confirms Amid Economic Concerns

Washington D.C. Less than 15 days after launching an attack on Iran in coordination with Israel, the United States has already spent $12 billion. Kevin Hassett, the White House's Chief Economic Advisor, confirmed that this military operation, which began on February 28, has cost this amount so far.

This official figure has been released amid widespread concern over the potential impact of the escalating conflict in the Middle East on the US economy. Advisor Hassett claimed that despite the large expenditure, it will not significantly affect the American economy.

While consumers are anxious about rising fuel prices in the international market, he asserted that the market will soon find a solution to this problem and oil prices will decrease. Market instability has been caused by Iran's threat to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world's oil supply passes. However, Hassett argues that because the US is now a major oil producer itself compared to the 1970s, Iranian activities cannot devastate the American economy.

As war costs continue to rise, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that bombing in Iran will intensify, signaling a further increase in military spending in the coming days. However, the shifting objectives of the Trump administration for this war have created confusion in political circles.

Initially stated as destroying Iran's nuclear program, the goal later shifted to reducing missile capabilities, and currently targets oil infrastructure to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Criticizing this, opposition leader Chuck Schumer stated that the government has failed to provide a concrete reason for the war and is offering a different explanation every day.

In this intense conflict ongoing since February 28, at least 1,444 people have died in Iran so far. During the war, 13 US soldiers have lost their lives, and more than 140 have been injured. As the fighting spreads to Lebanon and Gulf nations, countries like India have begun negotiating directly with Tehran instead of relying on Washington for the security of their tankers.

Within the US, Senator Chris Van Hollen expressed serious concern, stating that the government has opened Pandora's Box without regard for the consequences.