Ed Miliband led a Cabinet push blocking a US request to use British bases for military action against Iran, backed by Yvette Cooper and Rachel Reeves. Citing legal and strategic concerns, they urged restraint, prompting the PM to pause approval while talks with Washington continue.
US forces sank an Iranian frigate near Sri Lanka, the first torpedoing of an enemy ship since the second world war. Washington says the move deters further regional attacks, while shipping in the Indian Ocean and Gulf faces higher risk, prompting insurers and energy markets to brace for disruption.
A US submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, the first such sinking by the US Navy since the 1940s. Many sailors are feared dead. The incident signals an escalation of regional tensions reaching far beyond the Middle East.
The UK is deploying HMS Dragon to the Middle East to bolster maritime security and assist potential evacuations. Ministers say the move is defensive amid rising regional tensions, while security chiefs review the domestic threat posture and readiness.
Freezing income tax thresholds will push about one million more pensioners into paying tax on the state pension, new estimates suggest. Announced with the Spring Statement, the move drew claims of a stealth tax on OAPs, while the Treasury says it is required to meet fiscal rules.
Fuel prices have jumped amid Middle East tensions, triggering long queues and temporary shortages at UK petrol stations. Some sites report no unleaded as wholesale costs spike and deliveries lag. Drivers are urged not to panic buy while supply chains stabilise.
Trump accused the PM of being ‘no Churchill’ and said the UK is uncooperative, as scrutiny grows over naval readiness with key ships kept in port amid maintenance and shortages. The dispute piles pressure on the government over defence funding and ties with Washington.
Trump mocked the PM as “no Churchill”, attacking his stance on recent operations. With regional tension rising, the UK is deploying a Royal Navy destroyer to protect RAF Akrotiri and reinforce security for personnel and assets at overseas bases.
Donald Trump criticised the PM for refusing to back US measures against Iran, arguing it damages alliances and Britain’s standing. He warned of implications for security and trade ties; No 10 says policy will be set by UK interests and Parliament.
Amid an escalating Middle East crisis, the UK is deploying a Royal Navy ship to Cyprus. The US President has berated the PM’s response, straining ties. Officials warn fuel and energy costs could rise as allies increase deployments and press for a firmer stance from London.