Rachel Reeves and Scott Bessent argued in person about Iran war, sources say
UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves reportedly had a heated exchange with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a meeting in Washington in April over the US-led war in Iran. Reeves criticized the lack of clarity in the war's objectives, prompting Bessent to defend the US position and warn of Iranian nuclear threats. The disagreement has contributed to growing tensions between the US and UK, marking one of the most significant diplomatic rifts in decades.
- ▪Rachel Reeves and Scott Bessent argued in person during the International Monetary Fund’s spring meetings in April.
- ▪Reeves expressed frustration that the US entered the war in Iran without a clear exit plan or defined goals.
- ▪Bessent reportedly warned that a nuclear attack on London could impact global GDP, prompting Reeves to object to his tone.
- ▪The dispute has led to threats from President Donald Trump to cancel a trade deal and recognize Argentina’s claim over the Falkland Islands.
- ▪Downing Street downplayed the conflict, stating that Reeves and Bessent have had constructive conversations and maintain a good relationship.
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Bessent and Reeves at a business reception during Trump’s state visit to the UK in September. Photograph: Chris J Ratcliffe/EPAView image in fullscreenBessent and Reeves at a business reception during Trump’s state visit to the UK in September. Photograph: Chris J Ratcliffe/EPAUS-Israel war on IranRachel Reeves and Scott Bessent argued in person about Iran war, sources sayUK chancellor said to have told US treasury secretary she did not like his tone during meeting in Washington in April UK politics live – latest updates Middle East crisis – live updates Kiran Stacey Policy editorTue 5 May 2026 09.18 EDTLast modified on Tue 5 May 2026 09.37 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleRachel Reeves had an angry exchange with her US counterpart, Scott Bessent, in Washington last month over the war…
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