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.