WASHINGTON: The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a $1.15 trillion defense budget, as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate.
According to U.S. media reports, the legislation was passed by 216 votes to 212.
The bill includes provisions aimed at strengthening defense cooperation between the United States and Israel.
The measure received support from the Republican majority as well as six Democratic lawmakers.
Under the legislation, the Secretary of Defense will designate the Pentagon’s executive agent for implementing certain defense-related responsibilities outlined in the bill.
During the debate, Congressman Thomas Massie expressed concerns over closer military integration with Israel.
He argued that U.S. military technology and supply chains should not be merged with those of Israel, reflecting differing views within Congress over aspects of the defense proposal.
The vote comes a day after the Trump administration requested approximately $87 billion in additional funding from Congress to address costs associated with the growing confrontation with Iran.
Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared before the Senate Appropriations Committee, where he stated that the conflict involving Iran has so far cost an estimated $37.5 billion, including projected expenditures through September 30.
Hegseth told lawmakers that the current security environment requires greater investment in the U.S. military rather than reductions in defense spending.
“This is the time to invest in America’s armed forces, not to cut defense expenditures,” he said, warning that failure to provide the requested funding would pose a significant national security risk.
He added that the Pentagon requires a fully funded budget to respond effectively to global threats and maintain U.S. military readiness.
The defense budget will now proceed through the remaining legislative process before becoming law.
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