The United States is conducting nightly air strikes against targets in Iran as officials say the country is not ready to negotiate a deal.
This escalation represents a significant increase in military tension in the Middle East, involving the deployment of additional troops and substantial financial expenditures to maintain pressure on the Iranian government.
U.S. forces have carried out strikes for 13 consecutive nights [1]. On July 22, U.S. Central Command said that forces began launching more strikes at 5:30 p.m. ET [2]. These operations are conducted from bases within the Middle East against targets located inside Iran.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the war has cost $37.5 billion to date [3]. Despite the high cost, the administration maintains that continued military action is necessary because Iran continues hostile actions and refuses to enter negotiations.
Amid the conflict, the White House addressed reports of internal government discord. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said rumors of a rift between President Donald Trump (R-FL) and Secretary Hegseth regarding missile stockpiles were fake news.
Legislators have signaled that the U.S. will continue a hardline approach. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) said Iran will pay a "very heavy price," describing the strategy as "head for an eye."
While some reports indicate U.S. troops are on high alert, other primary sources have not confirmed a specific change in alert status for all personnel in the region.
“The war has cost $37.5 billion to date”
The persistence of nightly strikes suggests a strategy of attrition designed to force Iran to the negotiating table. By publicly denying internal rifts and highlighting the high financial cost, the administration is attempting to project unity and resolve, signaling to both allies and adversaries that the U.S. is prepared for a prolonged engagement if diplomatic options remain unavailable.
