United States officials say Iran not ready for nuclear accord amid $37.5 bn war cost

President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington that Iran has contacted the United States and wants a nuclear agreement, but he does not believe Tehran is prepared for such a deal. He warned that Iran could acquire nuclear weapons and that the United States will not allow it.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth estimated the cost of the ongoing conflict with Iran at about $37.5 billion and said the Trump administration is seeking additional funding for the Pentagon. The administration’s 2027 defense authorization bill, approved by the House, earmarks $1.15 trillion for the core defense budget and $350 billion for urgent military needs, while maintaining sanctions on Iran and extending support to Kurdish and Syrian partner forces.

Polls show the war is unpopular, with only about 30 percent of Americans approving the President’s handling of the Iran fight. Republicans face pressure ahead of the November elections, as party leaders consider using the conflict as a political liability. Democrats are already highlighting the war’s cost and its impact on gasoline prices in campaign ads.

The combined statements and budget actions illustrate the United States’ continued military focus on Iran, the high financial burden of the conflict, and its growing relevance to domestic politics.