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

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.

https://p.dw.com/p/5B88P

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.