Reeves tells Americans she does not know why they launched Iran war – as it happened
During a CNBC event in Washington, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressed uncertainty over the US decision to go to war with Iran, questioning the conflict’s safety benefits and urging de‑escalation. She highlighted the economic fallout, the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and the need…
At a CNBC‑hosted event in Washington, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves addressed an American audience with a rare critique of the United States’ decision to engage in a war against Iran. Reeves said she does not know why the US chose to launch the conflict and warned that it has not made the world a safer place.
Reeves’ Skepticism on the War’s Purpose
Reeves told reporters that the UK had never been clear about the objectives of the conflict. She said that diplomatic negotiations were already underway before the war began, yet the US has not articulated a coherent strategy for ending hostilities. “We’ve never been clear about what the goals of this conflict are,” she said, adding that the lack of clarity has had far‑reaching economic consequences for the UK, the US and Gulf allies such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE.
Economic Fallout and the Strait of Hormuz
Reeves highlighted the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, noting that it had been open at the start of the conflict. She warned that any further restrictions would push oil and gas prices higher, exacerbating inflation in the United States and across the global economy. “De‑escalation is vital,” she said, stressing that long‑term damage to Middle‑Eastern oil infrastructure would persist even if the war ended tomorrow.
UK’s Response to the Conflict
While the UK has not joined the war, it has taken steps to support allies and manage domestic fallout. The government has pledged to double humanitarian aid to Sudan, with a £146 million package aimed at frontline responders and local aid groups. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper announced the funding at the International Sudan Conference, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and a diplomatic solution in Sudan.
In the UK, the government has also introduced measures to ease council tax burdens. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government announced that households will now have 63 days to settle overdue payments, and councils will be required to work with individuals on sustainable repayment plans. The changes aim to prevent financial ruin for families struggling to keep up with council tax.
Broader Political and Social Context
Reeves’ comments come amid a flurry of political activity in the UK. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has maintained a firm stance on the war, refusing to alter his position despite pressure from US President Donald Trump, who threatened to withdraw the US‑UK trade deal. Starmer’s comments were framed as a defence of national interest, while UK opposition figures such as Anas Sarwar and Malcolm Offord have engaged in heated debates over political alliances and anti‑terrorism measures.
Meanwhile, the UK’s Equality and Human Rights Commission has released an updated draft code of practice on single‑sex spaces. The guidance, which follows a landmark Supreme Court ruling, aims to balance the rights of women with the dignity of trans people. Campaigners from For Women Scotland have expressed cautious optimism, noting that the guidance has not been watered down but has been refined to include more practical examples for service providers.
Future Developments and Unresolved Issues
Reeves called for a return to diplomatic negotiations, arguing that the war’s continuation only deepens economic damage. She noted that the International Monetary Fund had recently downgraded growth forecasts for the UK, but expressed confidence that the UK economy would surpass those predictions again. The chancellor urged the US to focus on de‑escalation and to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to mitigate global inflationary pressures.
In the UK, the Electoral Commission is monitoring election material for deepfake audio and video content, a move that underscores the growing threat of misinformation. The commission will report findings after the May elections, which will include new parliaments in Scotland and Wales, as well as local elections across England.
Reeves’ remarks signal a growing unease among UK leaders about the US’s foreign policy direction and its implications for global stability. As the war continues, the UK remains committed to diplomatic solutions while preparing for the economic fallout that may linger long after the fighting ends.
Why it matters
Reeves’ critique highlights the uncertainty around the US‑led war against Iran and underscores the broader economic and diplomatic repercussions for the UK, the US and Gulf allies.
Key points
- Reeves questions the US war’s purpose and safety benefits
- She stresses the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to curb inflation
- UK doubles aid to Sudan and eases council tax rules
- UK’s Equality Commission updates single‑sex space guidance
- Electoral Commission monitors deepfake content for upcoming elections
Frequently asked questions
Why did Rachel Reeves speak in Washington?
She was attending a CNBC event and an IMF meeting, using the platform to address US‑UK relations and the Iran war.
What is the UK’s stance on the Iran conflict?
The UK has not joined the war, but it is urging de‑escalation, supporting allies, and focusing on diplomatic solutions.
What changes were made to council tax rules?
Households now have 63 days to settle overdue payments and councils must work with them on sustainable repayment plans.
