Donald Trump says he is weighing whether to "finish it off" or "make a deal" on Iran

The U.S.-Iran conflict, underway since Feb. 28 and nearing eight months, has cost the Pentagon at least $47 billion, according to a U.S. Central Command estimate sent to Congress. Nearly $30 billion is for replenishing munitions and $6.1 billion for lost equipment; the figure excludes damage to U.S. bases from Iranian drone and missile attacks. More than 50,000 troops have deployed, with at least 21 deaths and 865 wounded. President Donald Trump told Fox News on Oct. 25 that he was weighing a continued military approach against a diplomatic settlement; the report says he has signaled major combat could resume after the midterms. The administration has not made Iran comply with American demands through armed force, talks or economic pressure. Fighting has also pushed up oil prices, adding to inflation and potentially shaping voter sentiment in the midterms.