Should the UK prioritise defence spending amid Iran war economic pressures?

The UK currently spends around 2.3% of GDP on defence, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer pushing to accelerate increases to 3% amid vulnerabilities exposed by the ongoing Iran War. The conflict has slashed UK growth forecasts to 0.3-0.7% for 2026, spiked energy prices, and raised inflation due to disrupted oil supplies, straining public finances and prompting debates over tax hikes or cuts elsewhere. Military leaders cite gaps in capabilities like counter-drone tech and procurement delays, while fiscal rules limit borrowing, forcing tough trade-offs between security needs and economic pressures.