The Dollars And Cents Of Military Action Against Iran

Forbes Business

by Ilan Berman, Contributor

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The U.S. is escalating its military presence in the Persian Gulf as part of a pressure campaign targeting Iran's strategic programs. This deployment, which includes two carrier strike groups and additional naval assets, has already cost approximately $200 million over the past month. The daily expense of maintaining this force is estimated at $13 million, with potential long-term costs exceeding $500 million by mid- to late March. These figures underscore the significant financial burden of sustaining such a military posture and highlight how prolonged tensions could escalate expenses further. The cost of any potential conflict with Iran would be even more substantial. A past operation targeting Iran's nuclear program, "Operation Midnight Hammer," cost $2.25 billion. A new campaign to weaken Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities is expected to carry a similar or higher price tag. Additionally, defensive measures, such as deploying advanced air defense systems like THAAD, would further increase expenses during any conflict. From a business perspective, the financial implications of this military action are profound. The longer the U.S. maintains its presence in the region, the more costly negotiations become for Tehran. This could deter Iran from accepting limited deals, such as extensions of the 2015 JCPOA, which only delayed nuclear development. President Trump has emphasized diplomacy but remains committed to addressing the issue through force if necessary. The ongoing military buildup not only strains U.S. finances but also heightens regional tensions. The potential for Iranian retaliation against American forces or its allies increases the risk of a broader conflict, further complicating economic and political stability in the Middle East. For businesses, this uncertainty could impact global oil prices, supply chain logistics, and international trade relations. In conclusion, while the immediate focus is on military strategy, the long-term financial and geopolitical consequences cannot be ignored. The escalating costs of maintaining such a force and the potential for even greater expenses during conflict make it a critical issue for businesses and policymakers alike.

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/26/2026