Times Front Page 23rd of March 2026

Washington gave a 48-hour ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of military action against energy sites if ignored. Tehran said it would target regional infrastructure in response. Shipping and oil prices face rising risk as forces in the Gulf increase readiness.

i Front Page 23rd of March 2026

The PM is under pressure to cap energy giants’ profits as fuel costs are set to rise amid Middle East tensions. The cost-of-living adviser urges a temporary cap and household support. Officials are drafting contingencies, including lower motorway speed limits and possible petrol rationing.

Metro Front Page 23rd of March 2026

Unions urge the government to launch a Covid‑style emergency plan to shield jobs from an energy shock linked to Middle East instability. The TUC calls for guaranteed power supplies, support for energy‑intensive firms, and a rapid push on renewables to prevent factory shutdowns.