Israel must reimburse US costs of Iran war: Trump’s shocker

Washington: US President Donald Trump has demanded that Israel reimburse the United States for its military operations in the war with Iran, claiming that the country would not exist without American intervention. He said other countries under US protection would also have to repay Washington for the full cost of the conflict once it ends, according to Times of India.

In an interview with CBS News' 60 Minutes, Trump said he had informed the countries concerned and expected full reimbursement. However, he did not disclose the amount the US intends to recover, identify the countries expected to pay or explain how payments would be collected

Trump asserted that Israel's survival depended on American support and his intervention. He also defended US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, claiming Washington had destroyed Tehran's nuclear capabilities.

The demand comes as the reported Pentagon estimate for the conflict reaches $47 billion, with billions spent on missile defence systems and military operations. It follows Republican losses in the midterm elections, amid concerns over the war's financial burden, rising fuel prices and political fallout.

Meanwhile, Trump said the war with Iran was militarily effective over, following a meeting with Qatar's prime minister in Washington. He claimed Iran's military capacity had been destroyed but said the US naval blockade of Iranian ports would continue.

Task Force Iron Gate, set up to block trade through land routes and the Caspian Sea, would also remain in operation. Trump warned that the US was ready to resume military action at any time.