New Delhi, March 20 -- US President Donald Trump defended the Pentagon's request for an additional USD 200 billion in funding for military operations, including the ongoing conflict in Iran, calling it a necessary step to keep the US armed forces ready.

"This is a very volatile world," Trump said from the Oval Office. "The emergency spending would be a very small price to pay to ensure the nation's military stays in top shape."

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Trump suggested that the request also covers broader defense needs beyond Iran, while underscoring the administration's aim to maintain military superiority.

The Pentagon forwarded the funding proposal to the White House, AP cited a senior administration offic...