Iran threatened action against oil and gas facilities in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, prompting evacuations and sparking fears crude could hit $200 a barrel. The warning followed an incident at a major gas field. Analysts say global energy security and prices face heightened risk.
UK officers are working with the US on plans to reopen and secure the Strait of Hormuz, keeping shipping moving and protecting energy supplies. The step follows recent incidents affecting Gulf infrastructure and a rise in oil prices.
Starmer signals a shift on immigration, with proposals that could let about 1.6m long‑term residents gain the right to stay. The PM has softened earlier rhetoric after pressure from Rayner. Backers say it offers fairness and certainty; critics warn it may encourage further arrivals.
Energy prices rose after an incident severely damaged the world’s largest LNG plant in the Gulf, which supplies about a fifth of global gas. The UK is assessing inflation and security risks as oil gained around 6%, with markets wary of further disruption to regional energy infrastructure.
Met chief Sir Mark Rowley has asked US authorities to release unredacted Epstein files so UK police can review potential offences. Officers are examining a broad range of allegations, and the papers may include material on Andrew’s alleged misconduct, increasing pressure for transparency.
A UK publisher has barred AI firms from using its content for training after a government U-turn on text‑and‑data mining restored opt‑out rights. The move aims to stop unauthorised scraping by big tech, protect the value of journalism and secure fair compensation.
Speculation over a U-turn on migration policy grew as No 10 refused to confirm planned tougher rules. Labour infighting intensified, with leadership rivals challenging the PM’s stance and pressing for clarity on measures to control arrivals and enforcement.
US rates were kept on hold, but the Fed signalled it still aims to cut later this year despite a jump in oil prices. Powell said inflation is easing, though geopolitical risks cloud the outlook. Markets read the guidance as steady progress towards loosening, contingent on data.
Israel carried out a military operation against Iran’s South Pars gasfield, part of the world’s largest. The move pushed oil prices higher and prompted warnings of retaliation, raising concerns over energy security and the risk of wider regional instability.
Top doctors warn the NHS is unprepared for another Covid‑level pandemic, citing overrun A&Es, corridor care and record waiting lists. A meningitis uptick has heightened concern. The Covid inquiry’s next report is due, while the health secretary says plans are robust and outbreaks contained.