UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves criticizes US war on Iran as a mistake destabilizing global economy

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has publicly criticized the United States' military conflict with Iran, describing it as a "mistake" that has destabilized the global economy.

Speaking at the Invest in America forum in Washington DC, Reeves urged for de-escalation and highlighted the economic damage caused by the conflict.

Reeves confirmed that the UK government will not participate in the US-led military blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for oil and gas exports.

She emphasized that while the UK and US maintain their "special relationship," disagreements over the conflict are permissible.

The conflict has led to soaring energy prices and a sharp reduction in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the war could push the global economy into recession, with the UK expected to be among the hardest hit advanced economies.

Reeves stressed that the conflict has not made the world safer and expressed concern over the lack of clarity regarding US objectives, whether regime change, ending Iran's nuclear program, or resuming diplomatic negotiations.

She noted that formal diplomatic talks were ongoing before the conflict escalated.

The chancellor highlighted that the Strait of Hormuz was open to shipping just weeks ago and questioned the US focus on reopening it now.

She mentioned upcoming talks hosted by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron aimed at facilitating navigation through the strait in the event of a ceasefire.

Reeves also criticized the decision to end diplomatic negotiations and initiate military action, calling it a "folly" without a clear exit strategy.

She advocated for diplomacy as the best means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

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