Bush Requests Another $72.4 Billion for War on Terror

In a letter to the Speaker of the House, President Bush has asked Congress to allocate another $72.4 billion to fund the Global War on Terror through the remainder of fiscal year 2006. According to a White House Fact Sheet, the money will provide U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan with “the resources they need to fight and win the War on Terror.” The funds will also be used to help prepare Iraqi and Afghan military forces and governments to “stand on their own and successfully combat insurgents,” and to promote democracy, and continue to provide humanitarian aid. The request for funds includes:

• $65.3 billion to support the Department of Defense.

• $4.2 billion for the Department of State and other international operations.

• $2.9 billion for Intelligence Community management and classified activities in support of the War on Terror.

• $16 million for other agencies to support the War on Terror.

Should this request be approved, the total cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will exceed $440 billion. U.S. military operations in Iraq alone are currently costing an average of $5.9 billion per month. The Congressional Business Office (CBO) originally estimated the cost of the war in Iraq could ultimately reach $9 billion per month.

Also See:
Remember When “Iraq War Could Be Won in 48 Hours?”
CBO Projections of Iraq War Costs