White House asks US Congress for $88 bn emergency aid for Iran war

The White House has written to the US Congress seeking an additional budget of almost $88 billion, saying most of the money will cover urgent needs stemming from the war in Iran that began on 28 February with US and Israeli operations. Over $67 billion would go to the Pentagon for operational costs and to rebuild ammunition stocks. The request also includes $11.1 billion for American farmers – $10 billion of which is earmarked as interim assistance for 2026 seed planting – $672 million for the Energy Department to halt Iran’s capacity to develop or acquire a nuclear weapon, and $300 million for the State Department for security projects and embassy renovations in nations bordering Iran. The appeal was made by White House budget director Russell Vought.