The Trump administration is contemplating the possibility of Arab nations assisting in funding the ongoing military efforts against Iran, while US forces are actively engaged in operations in the region. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned that the idea of Gulf partners sharing the war costs is being reviewed, a practice seen in previous US-led conflicts in the Middle East. She expressed that President Trump is interested in urging countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE to contribute financially.
Leavitt highlighted that the United States is continuing its military campaign in Iran, with more than 11,000 enemy targets struck so far, resulting in a significant reduction in Tehran’s missile and drone attacks by about 90 percent. The US forces have also targeted over 150 Iranian naval vessels, rendering the navy ineffective, and have inflicted damage on nearly 70 percent of Iran’s missile, drone, and naval production facilities.
Amidst the military actions, the administration is engaged in negotiations with Iran, viewing this as a unique opportunity for Tehran to abandon its nuclear aspirations. Leavitt mentioned that discussions are ongoing and progressing positively, with private talks showing more promise than public statements. President Trump has instructed a temporary halt on strikes targeting Iranian energy infrastructure for ten days to facilitate diplomatic efforts.
The issue of financing the war arises due to escalating costs linked to continuous military operations and increased troop deployments in the region. Notably, during the Gulf War of 1990–91, a substantial portion of US military expenditures was covered by contributions from allied Arab states such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
