Secretary of War officials have informed a Senate Appropriations subcommittee on defense during a closed-door briefing on Tuesday that the first six days of the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran cost more than $11.3 billion. The estimate covers operational expenses but excludes pre-war buildup costs and munitions replacement, which Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said could add more than $10 billion alone.

Operation Epic Fury began on February 28 with coordinated U.S. and Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military sites, missile facilities, air defenses, and remnants of the nuclear program. The campaign has struck over 5,500 targets and sunk more than 60 Iranian ships, according to U.S. Central Command. As of Wednesday, the conflict marked its 12th day, with seven U.S. service members killed and 140 wounded.

Earlier estimates highlighted the rapid expenditure rate. The Pentagon previously disclosed $5.6 billion spent on munitions in the first two days. A Center for Strategic and International Studies analysis pegged the first 100 hours at $3.7 billion, or about $891.4 million per day. That averages to roughly $1.88 billion daily over the initial six days.

Lawmakers expressed concern over the mounting bill amid uncertainty about the war's duration and objectives. Democrats have signaled reluctance to approve a supplemental funding package without clearer details from the Trump administration. Some Republicans have also questioned expanded funding for what could become a prolonged engagement. President Trump stated on Wednesday that the U.S. would continue "more of the same" to end the conflict soon, though he acknowledged it might extend longer.

The strikes followed heightened tensions, including failed nuclear talks and Iranian threats to U.S. forces and allies. Iranian casualties exceed 1,200, with additional deaths reported in Israel, the UAE, and Lebanon. U.S. Central Command has cleared mines from the Strait of Hormuz after attacks on commercial shipping.

Pentagon officials emphasized that full costs cannot be finalized until the operation concludes. The briefing provides Congress with its most detailed financial overview yet as debates intensify over future appropriations.