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U.S. National Debt Surges Past $39 Trillion Weeks Into Iran Conflict

U.S. National Debt Surges Past $39 Trillion Weeks Into Iran Conflict

The U.S. national debt has officially crossed a record $39 trillion as of March 18, a milestone reached just weeks after the outbreak of conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

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U.S. national debt officially surpasses a record $39 trillion on March 18. Photo: AP

The rapid increase underscores the pace of borrowing in recent months, with debt hitting $38 trillion just five months ago and $37 trillion only two months earlier. White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said the war in Iran has already cost the U.S. more than $12 billion, with no clear end in sight.

The unprecedented figure highlights competing policy priorities within the administration — including a sweeping tax agenda, increased defense spending, stricter immigration enforcement, and efforts to rein in federal debt — a goal President Donald Trump has repeatedly pledged.

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, rising federal debt is already impacting Americans through higher borrowing costs for homes and vehicles, reduced wage growth as businesses scale back investment, and rising prices for goods and services.

Fiscal policy experts warn that sustained borrowing and growing interest payments could force the U.S. into difficult budgetary decisions in the years ahead.

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