Iranian strikes on military bases used by the US in the Middle East caused about $800 million (£600 million) in damage in the first two weeks of the war, a new analysis shows. Much of the damage was caused in initial retaliatory strikes by Iran in the week after the US and Israel launched the war, according to a report by the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) and an analysis by the BBC.
Details surrounding the full extent of the damage caused by Iranian strikes on US assets in the region are still developing. The estimated damages highlight the steep costs incurred by the US as the conflict progresses.
Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at CSIS, commented, The damage to US bases in the region has been underreported. Although that appears to be extensive, the full amount won't be known until more information is available.
In response to inquiries, the US Department of Defense directed the BBC to US Central Command, which declined to comment. Iranian retaliatory actions have specifically targeted US air-defense and satellite-communication systems across countries like Jordan and the United Arab Emirates, with a notable strike affecting a US radar for a Thaad missile defense system at an air base in Jordan alone costing around $485 million.
Additionally, $310 million has been reported in damages to buildings, facilities, and infrastructure associated with US military bases. Analysis of satellite imagery has shown that Iran has engaged in multiple strikes against at least three air bases, including ones in Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing a calculated strategy to target US military capabilities.
As the conflict continues, the overall cost of US military operations has considerably escalated, with reports indicating that the initial six days alone amounted to $11.3 billion, and by the 12th day, it had risen to $16.5 billion. Consequently, the Pentagon is seeking an additional $200 billion in funding to support military efforts amidst rising costs and potential escalations in the region.
Details surrounding the full extent of the damage caused by Iranian strikes on US assets in the region are still developing. The estimated damages highlight the steep costs incurred by the US as the conflict progresses.
Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at CSIS, commented, The damage to US bases in the region has been underreported. Although that appears to be extensive, the full amount won't be known until more information is available.
In response to inquiries, the US Department of Defense directed the BBC to US Central Command, which declined to comment. Iranian retaliatory actions have specifically targeted US air-defense and satellite-communication systems across countries like Jordan and the United Arab Emirates, with a notable strike affecting a US radar for a Thaad missile defense system at an air base in Jordan alone costing around $485 million.
Additionally, $310 million has been reported in damages to buildings, facilities, and infrastructure associated with US military bases. Analysis of satellite imagery has shown that Iran has engaged in multiple strikes against at least three air bases, including ones in Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing a calculated strategy to target US military capabilities.
As the conflict continues, the overall cost of US military operations has considerably escalated, with reports indicating that the initial six days alone amounted to $11.3 billion, and by the 12th day, it had risen to $16.5 billion. Consequently, the Pentagon is seeking an additional $200 billion in funding to support military efforts amidst rising costs and potential escalations in the region.
