Washington and Tehran have begun direct, high-level talks for the first time since 1979, aiming to restore diplomatic ties, ease sanctions and safeguard Gulf shipping. The US says mine clearance is under way in a key strait. Envoys plan confidence‑building steps as groundwork for a broader accord.
Bridget Phillipson faces claims she blocked proposed changes to equality law aimed at strengthening single‑sex spaces, allegedly prioritising ambition over safeguarding. Her allies say current rules suffice. The dispute intensifies scrutiny of how sex should be defined in legislation.
Defence sources say the Navy may ask France to help patrol UK waters as the fleet is overstretched amid increased activity by a hostile state’s vessels. Ministers are urged to strengthen capability and deepen cooperation with allies to safeguard home waters and maintain deterrence.
Wes Streeting says corridor treatment leaves him “ashamed” and vows swift action to end it. After a hospital visit, he pledged reforms to expand capacity, cut waits and support staff so patients are treated in proper wards, calling current practice undignified and unsafe.
An innocent man has been freed after 38 years in prison, with no official apology. His case, marked by flawed evidence and disclosure failures, has become a test of the justice system, prompting calls for an inquiry, formal exoneration and fair compensation.
The PM has shelved plans to hand sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back the Diego Garcia base. Kemi Badenoch hailed the climbdown and urged the deal’s scrapping. The bill won’t feature in the King’s Speech, and senior figures call for an inquiry to put British interests first.
A veteran TV presenter is receiving hospital care after a suspected stroke. Admitted on Tuesday, he remains on a ward under observation as doctors monitor his condition. Colleagues have offered support while he continues treatment.
Artemis II’s crew returned safely after a 10‑day lunar mission, achieving a precise splashdown hailed as a bullseye. The flight validated life‑support and navigation systems and set a new human‑distance record.