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US-Israel war with Iran: How much does it really cost?

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Nita Blake-Persen
March 26, 2026

Beyond the human toll and soaring energy prices, the US-Israel war with Iran is racking up enormous military costs, with US and Iran spending on vastly different scales. DW looks at where the money is going.

The United States is estimated to be spending up to $1 billion (€865 million) a day on its war efforts against Iran.

Analysts note that while Iran can deploy a drone for about $20,000 (€17,296), the US often responds with missiles costing between $1.3 million and $4 million (€1.1 million and €3.5 million) each — and frequently fires more than one per interception.

DW breaks down the cost of the current conflict and where the money is going.

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