Trump paused planned military action, citing ‘productive conversations’ toward resolving hostilities. Tehran denied any talks, accusing Washington of stalling. Markets reacted: shares rose, oil prices fell.
Ministers say the UK is safe from Iran’s long‑range missiles, rejecting Israeli claims that Britain could be hit. Housing secretary Steve Reed says defences are in place and there is no official assessment that Iran can, or intends to, target Europe.
The Foreign Secretary condemned an incident targeting the joint UK-US base on Diego Garcia, calling it reckless. Kemi Badenoch urged the PM to disclose details affecting British troops. No 10 said related actions were collective self-defence; ministers insist the UK isn’t entering a wider conflict.
An independent review finds the PM’s ‘stay at home’ Covid messaging deterred people from seeking urgent care, leaving thousands without lifesaving treatment. It urges clearer risk communication and stronger NHS triage to protect non-Covid services during future health emergencies.
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.
After allies refused to send naval support in the Strait of Hormuz, the US president said his country does not need Nato. The stance left him increasingly isolated, while his counterterrorism chief resigned, saying Iran posed no imminent threat and questioning the strategy.
Germany and the UK have declined a US request to deploy naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz, saying it falls outside Nato’s remit. The PM said Britain will not be drawn into a wider confrontation. The US president voiced frustration as partners resist patrols of the vital oil route.
UK troops in Iraq were targeted, prompting the defence secretary to consider deploying warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz and protect oil shipping. Tehran says it will maintain a blockade, squeezing supply and pushing energy costs higher in Britain.
Newly released papers say the PM was warned of reputational risk before appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US, citing his links to a disgraced financier already convicted of offences. They add he sought a £500,000 payout after dismissal and was paid £75,000.
Thousands in Beirut remain homeless as continued military action hits sites linked to an armed group. Local reports put the death toll near 570. While the US president says the conflict is close to ending, residents sleep rough and aid needs are rising.