US military actions in Iran lead to high casualties and rising deficits

The United States is facing significant fiscal and human costs following military actions against Iran. The Pentagon has estimated $37.5 billion for the attack on Iran, with the White House seeking an additional $87.6 billion. These military expenditures contribute to a substantial federal deficit; for the first nine months of fiscal 2026, Washington reported a deficit of $1.37 trillion, with spending reaching $5.52 trillion against $4.15 trillion in collections.

On the human cost, a Tomahawk missile strike on February 28 reportedly hit a girls’ school in Minab, resulting in the deaths of approximately 156 to 168 people, including at least 120 children. This incident marks a significant escalation in the conflict between the two nations.