US military training at risk without more funding, defense chief warns

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth told lawmakers on Tuesday that military training would have to be cut if Congress does not approve additional funding soon. He spoke during a Senate hearing on the Trump administration's supplemental budget request. Hegseth said the US war against Iran has so far cost $37.5 billion. That figure is nearly $8 billion higher than the last official estimate. He warned that without a quick funding boost, some training programs will be reduced. Republican Senator Susan Collins also raised concerns, saying some military branches face a near-term solvency crisis. The hearing is part of a review of President Donald Trump's funding request from June 2026. The Pentagon has been under financial pressure due to ongoing military operations and rising costs. Lawmakers are now debating whether to approve the extra money or demand cuts elsewhere. Hegseth did not specify which training programs would be affected but emphasized the urgency. "There is training right now and training in the future that would have to be curtailed if we do not get our budget needs met," he said. The request comes as the US continues its military engagement in the Middle East. The total cost of the Iran war has now surpassed $37 billion, according to the Pentagon's latest figures.