War on Iran: Hegseth wants $70B more to keep fighting

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported on July 22, 2026, that Iran activated air defence systems across Tehran during the 11th night of US strikes, describing the conflict as moving closer to the Iranian capital. The outlet’s video item, presented by Marah Rayan, framed the development as part of an escalating “War on Iran.”

According to Al Jazeera, the Pentagon is seeking nearly $70 billion in additional funding to sustain the war. The report said that request would come on top of $37.5 billion already spent, indicating a sharply rising financial commitment by the United States as military operations continue.

The article text available is brief and does not provide further detail on the specific targets of the strikes, casualties, the status of Tehran’s air defences, or the legislative process for the requested funding. It also does not include a direct statement from the Pentagon, Iran’s government, or US lawmakers.

If approved, the additional funding request reported by Al Jazeera would signal expectations of a prolonged campaign and could intensify scrutiny in Washington over war costs, objectives and oversight. The reported activation of air defences in Tehran is significant because the capital is Iran’s political and administrative centre, and any expansion of hostilities toward it would raise concerns about wider regional consequences and risks to civilians.