Scotland's First Minister John Swinney has labelled Donald Trump's threats against Iranian infrastructure as "unconscionable", in a sharp rebuke of the US president's escalating rhetoric over the Strait of Hormuz crisis. The comments come as tensions surge in the Gulf region, with global oil markets feeling the strain.
Trump's Ultimatum and Swinney's Response
In an expletive-laden post on his Truth Social website, President Trump issued a stark ultimatum to the Tehran regime, demanding they reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 1am on Wednesday UK time. The blockade has virtually halted oil flows from the Gulf, driving up prices and sparking fears of wider economic disruption.
Speaking to the Press Association on Tuesday, Swinney condemned the threats, which include potential strikes on power plants and bridges in Iran if action is not taken. He emphasised that the violence being threatened will cause "enormous, enormous hardship and suffering" for the Iranian people, who are already enduring difficulties under their own government.
Call for De-escalation and International Action
Swinney reiterated his push for de-escalation, stating, "The entire conflict in Iran should not be taking place. This is an unwarranted and illegal intervention by the United States and Israel." He argued that what Trump has initiated cannot be concluded by the president alone, urging a collective diplomatic solution.
The First Minister highlighted the critical need for the international community to step in, saying, "The need for de-escalation, for a solution that avoids any further military activity in Iran is absolutely essential." He called on other governments to work together to encourage and enable a peaceful approach, noting that the UK has "a part to play" in resolving the conflict.
Wider Political Criticism
Swinney's criticism echoes broader concerns, with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar also hitting out at Trump on Monday. Sarwar told journalists that the US president appears "intent on making (the world) even more unsafe", reflecting growing unease over Trump's aggressive stance.
The situation underscores deepening geopolitical rifts, as Swinney urged the United Kingdom Government and global actors to "do all that is possible to be done to de-escalate this situation and to avoid this conflict causing any more damage that it has already caused."
