Year: 2026

Keir Starmer stands firm against US pressure over the Iran conflict, refusing to commit British warships to the Strait of Hormuz. This principled stance has garnered a significant approval boost amid rising tensions. Starmer must maintain this resolve for the upcoming challenges ahead.

The leader of the exiled Iranian Kurdish opposition party has condemned Iran’s leaders as “butchers” and described current attempts at military weakening of the regime as supportive. Mohtadi emphasised that any regime change should come from the Iranian people themselves, criticising Europe’s “policy of appeasement” towards Tehran.

An English-speaking robber wielding a machete was laughed out of La Barraca de la Abuela bar in Malaga as staff mistook his hold-up for a prank. They later realised the gravity of the situation when he attempted another robbery. He has since been arrested.

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas indicated that using Russia’s frozen assets to finance Ukraine is still possible if Viktor Orbán maintains his veto on the €90 billion loan. Orbán blocked this financial support due to a dispute over the Druzhba oil pipeline, impacting Ukraine’s funding amid ongoing conflict.

The Iraqi Interior Ministry has confirmed the kidnapping of American journalist Shelly Kittleson in Baghdad. Abducted by armed men, efforts are underway to locate her amid concerns of involvement from pro-Iranian militias. The United States is collaborating with Iraqi authorities for her release.

No plans for King and Queen to meet Epstein victims during US visit despite congressman’s plea.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen has urged EU countries to implement coordinated measures to reduce oil and gas consumption amid rising prices due to the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure. He warned against fragmented responses, stressing the need for a unified approach to ensure supply stability.

Israel has approved a bill enabling the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of terrorism charges. Former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the legislation, which has faced condemnation from the European Union and various nations due to its discriminatory nature. Activists urge opposition to the law.

Donald Trump has unveiled a grand AI-rendered design for his gold-laden presidential library in Miami, Florida.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is impacting global markets, leading to a spike in energy prices and heightened concerns over potential supply shortages. This critical maritime passage is vital for oil transport, intensifying anxieties about the stability of fuel supplies worldwide.