Grant Shapps warns of possible war with China, Russia, and Iran Within 5 Years: “Inflection Point”
LONDON. British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps has issued a stark warning, suggesting that the world is on the brink of conflict, with the possibility of war erupting within the next five years against major global powers such as China, Russia, and Iran.
During his first major speech since assuming office in the summer of 2023, Shapps described the current global state as a “pre-war” phase, marking a shift from the post-war era following the fall of the Berlin Wall. He emphasized the need for increased defense spending as a deterrent and preparation for potential conflicts, indicating that such conflicts could materialize within the next five years.
“In five years’ time, we could be looking at multiple theaters involving Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea,” Shapps warned. He called for an “inflection point” in 2024, stressing the end of the era of the peace dividend.
Highlighting the evolving geopolitical landscape, Shapps stated, “Today our adversaries are busily rebuilding their barriers. Old enemies are reanimated. New foes are taking shape. Battle lines are being redrawn.”
Shapps underscored the importance of redirecting the United Kingdom’s inventive and innovative spirit toward defensive pursuits. He presented various defense advancements made by the U.K. over the years, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to maintaining a strong defense posture.
The defense chief’s remarks come in the wake of the recent conflict in the Middle East, with escalating tensions supported by Iran and its proxy groups, including Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. Shapps praised the Royal Navy’s response to Houthi attacks on international shipping routes, characterizing it as a “decisive” blueprint for the U.K.’s leadership in the future.
Shapps replaced former Defense Secretary Ben Wallace during a significant cabinet reshuffle. Wallace, a strong supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, resigned from his post, citing his decision not to seek re-election in the upcoming 2024 general election.
The current defense secretary also addressed the conflict in the Red Sea involving the Houthis, commending the Royal Navy for its defense against Houthi attacks. He issued a stern message to the Iranian-backed group, calling for an end to their “illegal and unjustified actions” and emphasizing the global community’s commitment to protecting innocent lives and the global economy.
As international tensions continue to rise, Shapps urged for a proactive stance in defense, signaling a paradigm shift in the U.K.’s approach to global security.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
