Iranian retaliatory strikes have caused at least $5 billion in damage to American military bases across the Middle East within the first six months of hostilities, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal dated October 30. Citing sources and satellite imagery, the report states that attacks affected a minimum of 274 structures at 24 installations.
The Pentagon initially estimated damage at $5 billion, but The Wall Street Journal suggests the true cost could reach as high as $15 billion. These figures are not included in the total military expenditure against Iran, which stood at $47.1 billion on October 16.
Washington is discussing with allied nations the possibility of involving them in financing partial reconstruction efforts. However, The Wall Street Journal notes that some facilities may remain unrepaired. American officials have also expressed concerns about Iranian strike precision, noting Tehran’s ability to target even small buildings within military bases.
The Pentagon has disclosed only limited information regarding destruction scope. In October, five members of the Senate Armed Services Committee demanded the military release details about alleged damage.
Chris Murphy, a Democratic senator from Connecticut, told The Wall Street Journal he was barred from visiting the U.S.-operated Al-Udeid airbase in Qatar earlier this month. The report indicates at least 12 buildings were damaged there. Murphy believes the administration is “withholding information about the damage” to “hide the real cost of the war.”
Separately, The Wall Street Journal reported on October 27 that the United States warned certain Gulf states about potential military action against Iran following November’s midterm elections. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on October 29 Russia is prepared to mediate U.S.-Iran disputes if requested. If the issue involves Iranian enriched uranium, Russia would be willing to export it from Iranian territory. Peskov noted resolving U.S.-Iranian escalation has consistently arisen during Washington-Moscow contacts.
