Terror Wars Cost Could Hit $1.7 Trillion

Combined costs of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan could run from $1.2 to $1.7 trillion by 2017, according to a new report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Both military operations and long-term payments of veteran's benefits will contribute to the costs.

According to the CBO, Congress approved $602 billion for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and other activities associated with the war on terrorism from September 2001 through the end of fiscal 2007. Another $2 billion, while not explicitly appropriated for the purpose, was spent by the Veteran's Administration (VA) for war-related benefits.

Since Congress has yet to complete the fiscal year 2008 federal budget, the totals do not include any expenditures requested for 2008. War-on-terror military operations are currently being funded by a continuing resolution, which runs through Nov. 16, 2007.

The CBO report is: Estimated Costs of U.S. Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and of Other Activities Related to the War on Terrorism (.pdf)

Also See:
Can Congress End the Iraq War?
Iraq War Results & Statistics as of Oct 17, 2007 (US Liberals)
Facts and Data on Conditions In Iraq (US Politics)