Trump criticised Nato allies over the Gulf crisis. The UK has begun contingency planning and authorised the use of its bases for operations against launch sites threatening shipping, amid warnings that energy and borrowing costs could rise.
The PM has granted President Trump permission to use UK bases, including RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, for operations to counter missile threats to the Strait of Hormuz. Framed as self‑defence, the decision prompted a Cobra meeting to assess energy market risks and potential cost‑of‑living impacts.
Washington has prepared plans to deploy troops to seize Kharg Island, a strategic Gulf oil hub, following the president’s rebuke of Nato allies. The proposed operation would use naval and air support to secure facilities and exert pressure, with duration, risks and allied roles under review.
Economists warn fresh tax rises may be needed as a global energy disruption drives inflation and pushes up borrowing costs, straining the Treasury. Servicing the national debt is costing about £13bn a month, threatening to derail the Chancellor’s plans.
UK borrowing costs have hit an 18-year high as gilt yields top 5%, prompting banks to pull mortgage deals. Traders bet inflation will prove stickier and rates stay higher for longer, lifting swap costs. The squeeze threatens the housing market and piles pressure on the PM and chancellor.
An inquest into the death of a former world champion boxer heard his mum recall their final hug, saying it was so strong it almost broke her ribs. She said he’d spoken of a return to the ring. The coroner concluded there was no evidence he intended to die.
Campaigners for assisted dying vow to persist despite fresh delays in the Lords. Supporters plan to reintroduce the bill each session, pressing for regulated choice for terminally ill adults with strict safeguards.
An inquest heard former boxing champion Ricky Hatton had a brain disease affecting memory. The coroner found he may not have intended the actions that resulted in his death, with the condition considered a significant factor.
Israel’s PM said the regime in Tehran cannot be removed by air power alone, arguing any campaign would need a ground element. He linked the crisis to rising risks for oil and shipping and sought continued Western backing, while critics warned of escalation and economic fallout.
Market turmoil from escalating Middle East tensions has led lenders to withdraw mortgage deals. The Bank of England warns inflation could rise, prompting up to three base-rate increases this year, lifting repayments for millions and heightening unemployment risks.
Saudi Arabia signalled it may take military action against Iran after incidents at Gulf energy sites pushed global oil and gas prices higher. Riyadh warned that further aggression will trigger a response, while markets and shipping lanes assess heightened risks to regional stability.
The Covid inquiry finds frontline staff’s efforts prevented NHS collapse. Chair Baroness Hallett praises a “superhuman” response, but criticises years of underfunding and unclear messaging—especially “Stay Home”—for leaving services ill-prepared and deterring patients from seeking care.
A Labrador called Stanley dug up a Victorian poison bottle in his owner’s garden, offering a key clue to a 160‑year‑old local mystery. Experts think it originated from a 19th‑century chemist, helping explain reports of suspicious incidents recorded at the time.
UK energy bills set to surge after incidents at key Gulf gas facilities cut LNG output. Wholesale prices jumped about 25%, with analysts warning costs could remain elevated for years. Inflation risks may force further rate rises, tightening pressure on households and firms.
Middle East tensions are pushing up oil and gas costs, threatening a renewed rise in UK inflation. The Bank of England kept rates steady but signalled it stands ready to tighten further to contain price pressures, warning households to brace for higher energy and fuel bills.
Global markets slid as investors priced in a prolonged energy shock linked to a geopolitical crisis. Oil and European gas jumped, inflation risks mounted and bond yields rose. Central banks cautioned that price pressures may persist, lifting expectations of faster tightening across the West.
Iran issued a fresh warning over Gulf shipping, heightening fears of an energy crunch. Delayed cargoes and higher risk premiums lifted oil and gas prices. Ministers and suppliers warned of pressure on bills, urging calm while contingency measures and diplomatic channels are pursued.
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.
ABBA Voyage’s creators have acquired rights to Tina Turner’s image and songs, paving the way for an avatar-led concert show. Pophouse, co-founded by Bjorn Ulvaeus, plans an immersive production modelled on the ABBA residency; timetable and venue are yet to be announced.