Hegseth Announces Formal Probe into Iran School Strike Amid Rising War Costs

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on March 13 that the Pentagon has elevated its investigation into a military strike on a school in Iran, designating a specific officer to lead the probe. The move comes as the Trump administration faces increasing pressure over the humanitarian impact of the conflict, which entered its second week following a series of aerial bombardments. Hegseth confirmed the appointment of the investigating officer during a press briefing, noting that the military is seeking to establish the full circumstances of the incident. Despite the ongoing hostilities, the Pentagon chief stated there is currently no evidence that Iranian forces have mined the Strait of Hormuz, a move that would severely disrupt global energy supplies. The conflict between the United States and Iran escalated significantly in early 2026, leading to the first direct large-scale military engagement between the two nations in decades. Previous tensions had been defined by proxy wars and economic sanctions, but the current situation involves sustained U.S. strategic bombing campaigns. The Trump administration, which returned to power in 2025, has maintained a policy of maximum pressure that culminated in the present kinetic operations.

The financial and military scale of the operation has drawn significant attention, with AP News reporting that the first week of the war cost the United States an estimated $11.3 billion. This expenditure includes the deployment of high-value assets, such as B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, which have been filmed taking off from airbases to conduct deep-strike missions within Iranian territory. To manage the economic fallout and volatility in energy markets, the Trump administration is framing its strategy as an effort to eliminate the terror risk premium associated with Iranian influence in the Middle East. Officials argue that while prices have fluctuated, the long-term goal is to stabilize global markets by removing threats to oil infrastructure. 11.3 (billion dollars) — estimated cost of the first week of the war Estimated U.S. War Expenditure: 2026-03-06: 0, 2026-03-13: 11.3

Secretary Hegseth also sparked controversy by criticizing CNN's coverage of the war and expressing a desire for David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount Skydance and an ally of President Trump, to purchase the news network. During his remarks, Hegseth suggested that a change in leadership at the broadcaster would result in more favorable reporting of the administration's military objectives. The Defense Secretary's comments reflect a broader tension within the administration, where aides are reportedly competing to influence the conflict's outcome as a clear exit strategy remains elusive. While some advisors push for a decisive military conclusion, others are focused on the political and media narrative surrounding the intervention. „I am eager to see David Ellison take over CNN” — Pete Hegseth via Reuters

Internal dynamics within the White House suggest a lack of consensus on the final objectives of the Iranian campaign, with various factions vying for the President's favor. As B-2 bombers continue their sorties, the administration has yet to define the specific conditions required for a cessation of hostilities. The elevation of the school strike investigation is seen by some analysts as an attempt to mitigate international criticism while the broader air campaign continues. Meanwhile, the global community remains focused on the Strait of Hormuz, where any sign of Iranian mining could trigger a further escalation of the naval component of the war. U.S.-Iran Conflict Developments: — ; — ; —