HIGH COSTS OF THE IRAQ WAR
The Iraq war has cost the American people in so many ways. The human toll has been severe for the U.S.
Armed Forces, which has bravely carried out their missions despite critical shortages in equipment. The
war has cost America hundreds of billions of dollars and four years which could have been applied to
securing Afghanistan and domestic priorities. And to date, the costs of the war, in time, treasure, and the
casualties, continue to mount.
OVER 3,000 MILITARY CASUALTIES, OVER 23,000 TROOPS INJURED
Military Deaths in Iraq Now Total Over 3,000. As of Friday, Feb. 9, 2007, at least 3,117 members of
the U.S. military have died since the beginning of the Iraq war in March 2003, according to an Associated
Press count. The figure includes seven military civilians. At least 2,497 died as a result of hostile action,
according to the military's numbers. [Associated Press, 2/9/07]
Over 23,000 American Soldiers Injured in Iraq. As of February 7, 2007, there have been 23,417
injuries sustained by U.S. soldiers during the Iraq War. [Brookings Institute, www.brookings.edu]
Army Has Suffered From Critical Equipment Shortage. The Washington Post reported that, “the
Army began the Iraq war with an estimated $56 billion equipment shortage and has struggled to keep up
with demands for new armor to protect against increasingly deadly bombs.” [Washington Post, 2/12/07]
OVER FIVE HUNDRED BILLION DOLLARS SPENT, AND BILLIONS LOST
Almost Four Years. The United States and allied forces invaded Iraq almost four years ago, on March
19, 2003. [Brookings Institute, www.brookings.edu]
Iraq War Has Cost Over $500 Billion So Far. According to a report by the Congressional Budget
Office, an updated account of spending on the Iraq War shows that thus far $532 billion has been
appropriated by Congress or requested by the Administration. This total is more than double the $214
billion requested or appropriated for the war in Afghanistan. [Congressional Quarterly, 2/