Published: Aug 20, 2026, 24:16 IST | Updated: Aug 20, 2026, 24:16 IST
The Pentagon is weighing a possible reduction or repositioning of U.S. forces in the Persian Gulf after months of war with Iran exposed vulnerabilities at American bases and pushed the conflict’s estimated cost to $37.5 billion. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also sought billions in additional funding to replenish weapons and sustain military readiness. The debate could reshape America’s long-standing military footprint in West Asia.