Chancellor Rachel Reeves has condemned Donald Trump’s decision to go to war against Iran as a “folly”, criticising the lack of a clear exit plan and the impact on UK families and businesses. In an interview with the Daily Mirror, Reeves expressed frustration and anger that the United States initiated the conflict without defined objectives or a strategy for withdrawal.
“This is a war that we did not start. It was a war that we did not want,” Reeves said. “I feel very frustrated and angry that the US went into this war without a clear exit plan, without a clear idea of what they were trying to achieve. And as a result the Strait of Hormuz is now blocked.” She emphasised the consequence for British households and firms, noting that the economic outlook had been improving before the conflict disrupted markets.
The chancellor’s remarks are notably stronger than any public statements from other government ministers, who have generally avoided criticism of Trump to maintain diplomatic relations. However, her comments reflect growing unease within the administration over the US-led military action and its domestic repercussions.
Reeves’s interview comes ahead of her trip to Washington for IMF meetings, where she will discuss the global economic impact of the war with international counterparts. She had previously stated she was “angry” about the conflict but used more direct language in the Mirror interview, describing the decision as a strategic misstep.
