Newly released documents say the PM was warned that appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador posed a reputational risk because of his links to Jeffrey Epstein. Officials cited concerns over continuing contact after Epstein’s conviction and payment terms. The appointment went ahead.
Residents in Tehran report intensifying incidents causing power cuts and communications outages. Aid and rights groups cite rising civilian casualties. Regional leaders have exchanged warnings as operations target strategic sites, heightening concerns about further escalation.
Rachel Reeves warns households face higher bills as Middle East tensions push up oil and gas prices, threatening a renewed inflation spike. She urges rapid de-escalation, keeps the fuel duty freeze, orders scrutiny of pump prices, and says the Treasury is ready to act if pressures persist.
Iran warned it could target regional oil facilities after incidents at its energy sites, raising fears of supply disruption and price spikes. Neighbouring states were cautioned as markets slid; analysts said further escalation could push crude past $100 and weigh on the global economy.
Donald Trump demanded Iran’s unconditional surrender as the US and Israel intensified military action. Operations in Lebanon have forced over a million to flee. Israeli officials signalled further escalation, while Tehran indicated it would not accept the terms.
Authorities ordered residents of southern Beirut to evacuate, citing imminent military action against sites linked to an armed group. Foreign embassies urged departures. Gridlock and limited shelter capacity raised concern for those unable to leave, amid fears of broader escalation.
A US submarine sank an Iranian naval vessel off Sri Lanka, killing at least 87. Washington says the strike occurred in international waters and targeted a hostile ship; legal experts dispute the justification. Sri Lanka is monitoring an oil slick as regional navies raise alert.
The US and Israel intensified coordinated operations in Iran, hitting command, missile and drone infrastructure. Washington signalled more action may follow; Tehran said defences responded. Reports suggest hundreds of deaths, raising concern over regional escalation.
Escalating tensions followed a US–Israeli operation in Iran, prompting a widespread response across the region. Hundreds are reported killed, with incidents in the Gulf of Oman, the UAE and at a UK base in Cyprus. Governments warn of further action as air defences and diplomacy intensify.
Regional tensions intensified after a second day of military action struck targets in Iran, including Tehran, with civilian casualties reported. Oil prices jumped and risks to Gulf shipping grew. An emergency UN meeting convened as Washington indicated it remained open to talks.