War bill hits $37.5bn as US launches strikes on Iran
The U.S. military has carried out its 11th consecutive night of airstrikes against Iran, with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth officially confirming that the ongoing war, which has lasted five months, has cost American taxpayers $37.5 billion to date. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has focused on Iranian military operations centers, aircraft hangars, drone storage facilities, and logistics infrastructure. Recent strikes targeted Larak Island, areas near Qeshm Island, and activated air defenses around Tehran, the capital city. Additionally, an electrical installation close to the Bushehr nuclear power plant was struck. President Donald Trump has cautioned that the U.S. military may soon intensify its focus on Pickaxe Mountain, a fortified underground site believed to contain significant Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the ongoing military actions, asserting that they are essential to prevent Iran from establishing lasting hostility a...