Hegseth estimates rising cost of Iran war now at $37.5bn – as it happened

This blog is now closed

Published 22 July 2026 156 words
WORLD A2
Hegseth estimates rising cost of Iran war now at $37.5bn – as it happened

The US military has completed its 11th night of attacks on Iran. Targets included places where planes and drones are kept. Meanwhile, in the Red Sea, Houthi rebels from Yemen have started a new challenge for Saudi Arabia by saying they will block ships going to the country. This claim could not be confirmed by outside sources.

Oil prices have gone up. Brent crude oil is now over $92 a barrel, and West Texas Intermediate oil is over $85 a barrel. The US war in Iran has cost $37.5bn so far. More than 500 US soldiers have been injured.

The US secretary of state warned that if Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, it would create a bad example for other important waterways around the world. Also, President Donald Trump said he will allow American airlines to fly to Lebanon again, which has not happened for many years.

Vocabulary

attacks — violent actions such as bombing or fighting
blockade — an act of surrounding a place or stopping ships from entering or leaving
rebel — a person who fights against a government or authority
oil prices — the cost of oil, which can go up or down
injured — hurt or wounded
waterways — channels for water, like rivers or seas used by ships

Discussion Questions

  1. What did the US military do for the 11th night?
  2. What did the Houthi rebels in Yemen announce?
  3. How much money has the war in Iran cost the US so far?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

Read the original article