An American F-15E was downed over southwestern Iran during a mission. One crew member was rescued and treated; a search continues for the other. Iranian outlets published debris photos. Officials are also examining reports that a second US aircraft crashed near the Strait of Hormuz.
Ed Miliband is set to approve a major North Sea gasfield to bolster energy security amid regional tensions. The move would expand domestic supply and could create jobs, but critics say it conflicts with climate pledges and risks locking in fossil fuels.
Trump threatened to pull the US from Nato amid a crisis at the Strait of Hormuz, saying severe action would continue until the waterway reopens. Tehran denied his claim of a truce. In London, Rachel Reeves condemned the lack of planning and warned of economic risks.
President Trump urged Britain to secure domestic energy, telling the UK to “get your own oil” and accelerate North Sea projects. His remarks came as pump prices topped £100 to fill a family car, with developers saying new gas fields could supply homes by winter if approved.
Analysis indicates the Treasury is receiving about £20m a day in extra revenue from energy taxes as high oil and gas prices lift VAT and the profits levy. But rising debt interest could absorb much of the windfall, limiting room for tax cuts or new spending.
Amid fears of petrol and diesel shortages, the PM will meet major fuel suppliers to secure stability. Ministers are preparing contingency plans and urging the public not to panic-buy, saying stocks remain adequate. Global tensions are disrupting shipping and pushing up prices.
Washington has given Tehran ten more days to reopen a key shipping strait, pausing planned action while talks continue. UK officials warn of diesel shortages by mid‑April and higher prices if flows don’t resume. A senior US figure also said London is within range of long‑range missiles.
After Tehran rejected a proposed peace plan, the US president issued a stern warning, signalling tougher sanctions and possible further measures. Washington says the offer would ease tensions if accepted, but diplomats fear talks could stall.
Washington has deployed elite paratroops to the Gulf for a potential operation to secure Kharg Island, a strategic oil hub. The president claims pressure has already shifted the leadership’s position. Talks are ongoing, but rapid‑deployment units are primed if required.
Trump said he’d “bet on” reaching a deal with Iran, dialling back earlier threats against its power infrastructure. He suggested progress could allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen, easing pressure on energy markets, while warning there are no guarantees and conditions apply.