The White House has asked Congress to approve an $87.6 billion emergency spending package. Most of the money would support US military operations linked to the war with Iran. The request came on Wednesday, just one day after Congress passed a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to launch military action against Iran.
The proposal now faces a difficult path in Congress as lawmakers debate the costs of the conflict ahead of the November midterm elections.
Most Funding Would Go to the Pentagon
The White House said it wants to allocate $67 billion of the package to the Department of Defense. Officials plan to spend $21 billion on munitions and weapons stockpiles. Another $17.3 billion would cover military operations and deployment costs. The administration would direct $12.1 billion to classified defense programs.
The White House said the money would meet urgent military needs related to Operation Epic Fury (OEF), the U.S. campaign against Iran.
Package Includes Funding Beyond Defense
The proposal also includes spending unrelated to the conflict. The administration wants to provide $11 billion in support for American farmers. It has also requested $1.4 billion to help contain the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa.
White House Sends Formal Request
The White House Office of Management and Budget submitted the request in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson. The letter stated, “Most of this request will address urgent needs related to Operation Epic Fury (OEF).”
Officials argued that the funding would help maintain military readiness and replenish depleted supplies.
Ceasefire Has Not Reduced Concerns
The request comes while the United States and Iran observe a ceasefire. However, the conflict has strained Pentagon resources since fighting began on February 28. U.S. military stockpiles have reportedly declined during the war.
Because of that, the administration says it needs additional funding to restore inventories and prepare for future contingencies.
Republicans Question Iran Strategy
Several Republican lawmakers remain skeptical about the ceasefire agreement Trump reached with Iran last week. Many lawmakers have questioned whether the agreement can last. Others have expressed concerns about the administration's broader strategy toward Iran.
These disagreements have created divisions within the Republican Party.
Tensions Flare During Senate Meeting
Trump reportedly held a tense private meeting with Republican senators on Wednesday. Reports said he argued with Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy during the discussion. The meeting took place shortly after Trump canceled a ceremony to sign a bipartisan housing bill.
The dispute highlighted growing tensions within the party over Iran policy and military spending.
War Powers Vote Sparks Frustration
Trump also criticized the Senate's recent vote on a war powers resolution aimed at limiting military action in Iran. Four Republican senators joined Democrats to support the measure. The vote represented a rare challenge to the administration from members of its own party.
The resolution became the first measure since the enactment of the War Powers Resolution of 1973 to pass Congress while directing a president to end an ongoing military operation.
Congress Faces Major Debate
Lawmakers will now review the funding request.
Many members of Congress remain concerned about the cost of the Iran conflict. Others question whether additional military spending is necessary during a ceasefire.
As a result, the White House faces a difficult battle to secure approval for the $87.6 billion package. The debate is likely to become a major political issue in Washington in the months ahead.