The United States House of Representatives has approved a record $1.15 trillion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), paving the way for the largest military budget in the nation’s history as Washington expands funding for military operations linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
The legislation was passed on Tuesday by a narrow 216-212 vote, largely along party lines, with Republicans overwhelmingly supporting the measure while most Democrats voted against it, citing concerns over escalating military spending and the widening conflict in the Middle East.
The annual defence policy bill authorises funding for the Department of Defense, covering troop salaries, military operations, weapons procurement, research and development, and national security programmes. 
A significant portion of the funding is expected to support U.S. military operations connected to the Iran conflict, which administration officials estimate has already cost approximately $37.5 billion. The bill also provides for military modernisation, expanded missile defence systems, enhanced naval and air capabilities, and a pay increase of up to 7 percent for members of the U.S. armed forces.
Republican lawmakers defended the legislation, arguing that the United States must strengthen its military capabilities to confront growing global security threats and ensure that American troops deployed abroad have the resources needed to carry out their missions.
Supporters of the bill said the funding is critical to maintaining U.S. military superiority, reinforcing alliances, and responding to evolving security challenges in the Middle East and other regions.
However, Democrats criticised the measure, saying Congress had failed to exercise sufficient oversight of President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict. They argued that the unprecedented level of defence spending would significantly increase the federal deficit while diverting resources from domestic priorities.
Opponents also objected to several policy provisions included in the legislation, including measures aimed at strengthening military cooperation with Israel and other conservative-backed national security initiatives.
The $1.15 trillion package represents the highest defence authorisation ever approved by the House and underscores Washington’s increasing focus on military readiness amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
Despite its passage in the House, the legislation must still be considered by the Senate, where lawmakers are expected to debate its spending levels and policy provisions. Any differences between the House and Senate versions will need to be reconciled before the final bill is sent to President Donald Trump for his signature.
If enacted into law, the measure would provide the Pentagon with unprecedented funding to support military operations, modernise America’s armed forces, and sustain U.S. strategic commitments around the world.
