India, Sept. 17 -- The United States' military conflict with Iran has cost the Department of Defence about $38 billion so far, with the bill expected to increase by up to $3 billion for every additional month of fighting, according to a new Congressional Budget Office (CBO) assessment.

The nonpartisan congressional agency estimated that the conflict had cost the Pentagon approximately $38 billion as of August 1.

The figure covers operational, logistical and sustainment expenses, including the replacement of weapons and equipment lost in combat, increased flying hours and higher fuel costs.

The CBO also warned that the financial impact could continue to grow depending on the intensity of the fighting.

If the conflict remains at the low...