Donald Trump said the US will organise joint patrols of the Strait of Hormuz to secure oil flows, coordinating with Iran. He signalled that any breach of commitments by Tehran would trigger a strong US response, insisting the route must remain open to global trade.
Iran vowed steps that would sharply lift global oil prices after rejecting a 48-hour ultimatum from Trump. The PM convened a Cobra meeting as ministers assessed risks to energy supplies and shipping. Firms were warned about possible disruption and households about higher fuel costs.
Washington has prepared plans to deploy troops to seize Kharg Island, a strategic Gulf oil hub, following the president’s rebuke of Nato allies. The proposed operation would use naval and air support to secure facilities and exert pressure, with duration, risks and allied roles under review.
Saudi Arabia signalled it may take military action against Iran after incidents at Gulf energy sites pushed global oil and gas prices higher. Riyadh warned that further aggression will trigger a response, while markets and shipping lanes assess heightened risks to regional stability.
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.
Donald Trump accuses the BBC of bias against his approach to the Iran crisis, saying it undermines his objectives. He claims UK–US ties were better before Starmer and hints at a reset, praising earlier cooperation and signalling a tougher stance on the broadcaster.
Emergency measures are under way to curb a meningitis outbreak linked to student nightlife, with antibiotics offered to thousands. Officials faced criticism for a day’s delay in issuing alerts. Universities are advising close contacts and monitoring cases.
The PM has declined a request from President Trump to send Royal Navy ships to a contested strait as part of a joint effort to reopen a vital shipping lane. No 10 says diplomacy should lead. Several European capitals are also reluctant to commit naval assets amid concerns over escalation and trade risk.
The White House has sent a Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Gulf to protect a vital shipping strait after incidents involving civilian vessels. The force could secure lanes and nearby islands with allied support. Brent crude passed $100 as markets priced in possible disruption.
UK officials say a hostile state orchestrated an Iranian drone swarm incident at a base in Iraq housing British troops. The PM is briefed as Britain and allies weigh steps to deter further incidents, strengthen defences and seek accountability, reaffirming support for personnel on the ground.