The PM is considering sending thousands of interceptor drones to the Gulf to strengthen regional air and maritime defences amid threats from Iran. The plan aims to protect shipping and allied sites, with ministers weighing costs, timelines and coordination with partners.
An alleged Epstein victim says he sent her to Mohamed Al Fayed, claiming the former Harrods owner assaulted her on a yacht in St Tropez. She says Epstein arranged the encounter and controlled her movements. Lawyers urge a full investigation into the alleged trafficking.
An incident at a UAE oil depot, attributed to Iran, escalates Gulf tensions and raises risks to shipping and energy supply. In response, there are calls for a Royal Navy presence in the Strait of Hormuz to safeguard routes.
Reports allege Jeffrey Epstein supplied Peter Mandelson with illegal drugs and arranged Botox while he served in government, increasing pressure on the PM over a decision to appoint him US ambassador.
Applications for UK citizenship hit a record in 2025, with 291,971 people applying, up from 253,757 in 2024. Analysts cite earlier high non‑EU migration and political signals on welfare, NHS access and housing. Grants of citizenship have also risen to the highest since 2013.
Prince Harry is reportedly incensed by a new book’s claim he was “brainwashed”, allegedly tied to a remark attributed to Camilla about Meghan’s influence. Sources close to the couple reject the portrayal as unfounded, while the palace declines comment amid renewed strain.
A former Gladiators star says she called police after being stalked by two people and now fears for her safety.
Energy Sec Ed Miliband pledged to keep household bills down amid fuel supply fears from Middle East tensions affecting key shipping lanes. He backed Ofgem to use fines, rebates and direct orders on suppliers, urging calm as forecourt demand surged.
The UK joined key European partners in rejecting Washington’s move to ease an oil embargo on a sanctioned state, warning it undermines pressure and security. The White House says the step is intended to stabilise global fuel prices.
Ministers face calls to approve the UK’s largest oil field and reconsider the pause on new North Sea licences, with supporters arguing it would bolster energy security and curb bills amid global market instability. Opponents warn of climate and investment risks.
A newly surfaced 1999 photo shows a senior royal and a former Cabinet minister socialising with a disgraced US financier at Martha’s Vineyard. The image has revived scrutiny of their past links; both figures deny wrongdoing and neither faces charges.
Newly released files include a photo said to show a former prince and a Labour peer socialising with a convicted offender, intensifying scrutiny of their past links. The revelation has prompted calls for clarity about the nature and extent of those associations.
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.
The chancellor pledged targeted support to shield poorer households from rising energy bills as global tensions lift wholesale prices. The Treasury is modelling options, with temporary help likely if the price cap jumps in June, prioritising low‑income homes.
The US and Israel have intensified military operations targeting Iranian sites around Tehran, seeking a breakthrough after weeks of confrontation. The UK coordinates with allies on diplomacy and calls for restraint.
Downing Street confirmed the PM did not personally question a Labour peer about past links to an individual convicted of abuse before appointing him ambassador to the US, saying no interview was required. Critics call it a dereliction of duty; No 10 defends the process.
Wall Street is concerned as crude tops $100 amid a deepening supply squeeze. Investors fear persistent energy costs will lift inflation, pressure households and complicate central bank plans, heightening recession risk. Energy shares rise while broader indices fall.