Amid a Middle East crisis, the PM insisted he remains in control, promising calm leadership at an emergency press conference. Critics say defence readiness is strained and relations with Washington have soured, with the US president rebuffing him. Downing Street denies any loss of grip.

Police arrested an MP’s husband and two former Blair‑era advisers on suspicion of assisting a Chinese intelligence service, triggering a fresh crisis for Labour. The trio were detained in raids and questioned. The party says it will cooperate fully and awaits the outcome of inquiries.

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.

Washington criticised the PM’s response to a recent military operation in Iran, after he barred use of UK bases and questioned its legality. Kemi Badenoch said he fears alienating voters, amid warnings his stance risks straining the Special Relationship.