Arabic version: وزير الخزانة الأمريكي يدعو إلى تحمل الألم الاقتصادي من أجل الأمن على المدى الطويل
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that a “small bit of economic pain” is acceptable for the sake of long-term international security, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict involving Iran. According to BBC News, Bessent emphasized the importance of addressing the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions rather than focusing solely on short-term economic impacts.
Bessent’s comments come as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned that the US-Israel war with Iran could lead the global economy toward recession. He argued that the potential consequences of a nuclear attack on Western cities outweigh immediate economic concerns, highlighting the risk posed by Iran’s missile capabilities.
The IMF’s World Economic Outlook report indicated that if the conflict continues, global growth could fall below 2% in 2026, a scenario that would mirror previous economic downturns. Energy prices have surged since the onset of the war, contributing to inflationary pressures that could further strain economies worldwide.
The UK is projected to be particularly vulnerable to the economic effects of the Iranian conflict, with the IMF reducing its growth forecast for the country to 0.8%, down from a previous prediction of 1.3%. However, the report also suggested that if the conflict concludes soon, global growth may stabilize at around 3.1% for 2026.
Bessent’s remarks reflect a broader strategy prioritizing long-term security over immediate economic stability. As nations navigate the complexities of the conflict, the potential for significant economic fallout remains a pressing concern for global leaders.
