Al Jazeera News Updates Pentagon asks for additional $200bn for Iran war, EU struggling with energy crisis
Mar 20, 2026
Quick updates on widening US and Israeli messaging three weeks into the Iran conflict. Discussion of calls for a ground component and closed UN Security Council consultations on energy security. Coverage of EU leaders grappling with higher energy costs and vulnerability to global gas price spikes. A look ahead at drone strikes in Pakistan and the impact of cheap drone technology.
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U.S. And Israel Diverge On Iran War Strategy
- The U.S. and Israel show diverging timelines and tactics in the Iran war despite projecting unity.
- Donald Trump softened on an end date and opposed ground troops while Benjamin Netanyahu said a ground component would be needed.
Massive Pentagon Funding Request Amid Troop Hesitation
- The Pentagon requested an extra $200 billion for the campaign while President Trump said he would not deploy ground troops.
- Netanyahu nonetheless insisted Iran's ground threats require a ground component and claimed Iran's enrichment and missile programs were destroyed.
Iran Retaliation Strains Gulf Energy And Trust
- Iran's retaliation has hit Gulf energy exporters and shaken regional trust, according to Qatar's prime minister.
- The UN Security Council held closed consultations focusing on energy security and member states affected by attacks on infrastructure.