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POLITICS · SEP 23, 2026

Trump's Iran Campaign Costs $38 Billion Amid Economic Strain

President Donald Trump faces declining approval ratings as a six-month military campaign against Iran drives up fuel costs and depletes U.S. missile stockpiles.

Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth launched a military campaign against Iran six months ago that has cost the Pentagon $38 billion. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 18 U.S. soldiers and forced the evacuation of regional bases.

The war has triggered severe domestic economic pressure, with U.S. consumers paying over $100 billion more for fuel. Gas prices have risen 50% since February, while global oil reserves have reached historic lows. This instability is compounded by Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabian oil pipelines and a significant reduction in oil imports by the Government of China at the start of the conflict.

These military setbacks and economic burdens have led to a decline in the president's approval ratings. Polling suggests a surge for Democrats ahead of the midterm elections, turning previously safe Senate seats in Kansas, Iowa, South Carolina, and Florida into competitive races.


Reported across 2 outlets
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Donald TrumpPete HegsethGovernment of China

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