Iran Warns Next War Could Impose Massive Economic Costs on the United States
Iran is warning that any renewed US-Israeli attack could trigger a broader regional conflict targeting energy facilities, undersea communications cables, data centers and artificial intelligence infrastructure across the Gulf.
Tehran has signaled that its response would extend beyond conventional military targets, threatening critical infrastructure in countries supporting US military operations. Such attacks could disrupt energy supplies, global communications and financial markets, potentially driving up costs for Washington and the wider global economy.
The financial burden of the conflict is already mounting. A US Congressional Research Service report cited a Congressional Budget Office estimate that American military operations had cost at least $38 billion as of August 1, while warning that depleted weapons inventories could complicate future military operations.
Iran’s strategy appears aimed at raising the economic and political price of another war, particularly as Washington faces pressure over energy prices and the approaching November midterm elections.
However, there is no confirmed evidence that Iran can bankrupt the United States. The potential consequences would depend on the scale and duration of renewed fighting, the extent of damage to regional infrastructure and the resulting disruption to global trade.
With diplomatic efforts stalled and military preparations continuing, the prospect of another confrontation carries risks that extend far beyond the battlefield.