Iran’s clerical assembly moved to choose a new ayatollah, a succession with major regional stakes. Neighbours warned against hardline picks, while Washington weighed in. Diplomats prepared for impacts on sanctions, nuclear talks and maritime security in the Gulf.

The PM pledged to protect Britons by boosting RAF deployments and arranging more mercy flights to repatriate those stranded overseas. While families reunited at airports, the first government rescue effort faced criticism as disorganised, prompting a review.

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.

Donald Trump said it is “too late to talk” to Iran, claiming recent US action has neutralised key assets. His stance escalated tensions and opened a rift with Britain over the next steps, following an incident in Tehran that heightened regional concern.