Pentagon: Iran war cost tops $47 billion

US Defense Department data show military spending on the war against Iran has exceeded $47 billion, more than 25% above the department's July estimate.

The figures reflect the financial burden the United States is bearing from the military operations, including the deployment of naval vessels, aircraft, munitions and air defence systems, as well as maintenance and operating costs.

The rising costs are likely to fuel debate in Congress, which holds the power of the purse, over the scale and priorities of spending, especially with the midterm elections approaching.

Estimates of the cost of wars typically change as operations continue, with later expenses such as replenishing stockpiles and moving equipment added over time.