US taxpayers coughs out $22.8 billion bill for Gaza conflict

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has come with a hefty price tag for US taxpayers, totaling a staggering $22.8 billion.

Since October 7, 2023, the US has spent at least $17.9 billion on Israel’s war on Gaza, according to research from the Costs of War project at Brown University’s Watson Institute.

This figure is continually growing, highlighting the significant financial burden of the conflict on American citizens.

Beyond Gaza, American military operations in the region, particularly in Yemen, have added another $4.9 billion to the total bill. The Houthis have linked the conflict in Yemen to Israel’s war on Gaza, underscoring the complex web of regional conflicts.

The US government’s financial commitment to these military endeavors has substantial implications for the country’s budget and global priorities. This substantial expenditure raises important questions about the long-term consequences and potential alternatives to military engagement in the region.

“The US Navy has significantly scaled up its defensive and offensive operations against Houthi militants in Yemen. … Hostilities have escalated to become the most sustained military campaign by US forces since the 2016-2019 air war against ISIS [ISIL] in Iraq and Syria,” the report said.

“Additionally, the analysis concludes that this Houthi-related conflict has also cost the maritime trade an additional $2.1bn, because shippers have been forced to divert vessels or pay exorbitant insurance fees. US consumers may experience paying higher prices for goods as a result.”