The Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror Operations Since 9/11

CRS Report updated Nov. 2007 (via Federation of American Scientists): $609 Billion.

"Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the United States has initiated three military operations:

• Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) covering Afghanistan and other
  Global War on Terror (GWOT) operations ranging from the
  Philippines to Djibouti that began immediately after the 9/11 attacks
  and continues;
• Operation Noble Eagle (ONE) providing enhanced security for U.S.
  military bases and other homeland security that was launched in
  response to the attacks and continues at a modest level; and
• Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) that began in the fall of 2002 with
  the buildup of troops for the March 2003 invasion of Iraq and
  continues with counter-insurgency and stability operations.

In the sixth year of operations since the 9/11 attacks, the cost of war is a major concern including the total amount appropriated, the amount for each operation, average monthly spending rates, and the scope and duration of future costs. For Congress to assess Department of Defense (DOD) war costs in FY2008, conduct oversight of past war costs, and consider future alternatives for Iraq that range from the President’s temporary increase in troop levels initiated this spring to a complete withdrawal, Congress needs considerably better information on costs than has been provided in the past."