Oil prices have soared above £94 a barrel as the US, under President Donald Trump, prepares military strikes on Iran, exacerbating tensions. With peace talks failing and the Strait of Hormuz closed, UK consumers face rising fuel costs. Stay informed on this developing situation.

EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič announced discussions with US counterparts about establishing a digital legislation forum, aiming to address concerns related to the EU’s Digital Services and Markets Acts. The US seeks to ease these regulations, linked to ongoing steel and aluminium tariff negotiations.

If you struggled to understand why Israel was provoking Iran and also taking control of the northern part of Gaza strip, this long term strategy between the UAE and Israel explains all.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

Essa Suleiman, a 45-year-old Somali-born British national, was arrested in connection with overnight stabbings in Golders Green, London. Two victims remain in hospital as police investigate the suspect’s history of violence and mental health issues.

A poultry farmer in Uttar Pradesh, Sabir Ali, reported the death of 140 chickens allegedly caused by loud music from a wedding procession nearby. The incident occurred on April 25, leading police to investigate DJ Kavi Yadav for noise violations. The case is under review.

Belgium is negotiating with French energy group Engie to take control of its nuclear power plants, aiming to secure energy supplies. Prime Minister Bart de Wever confirmed plans to halt decommissioning operations while advocating for increased use of nuclear energy amid rising energy prices linked to global conflicts.

United States prosecutors have indicted Sinaloa state Governor Ruben Rocha Moya and nine other officials, alleging connections to the Sinaloa drug cartel. The indictment accuses them of facilitating narcotics trafficking in exchange for political support, potentially impacting US-Mexico relations amidst ongoing efforts to combat drug cartels.

President Trump announced that the US blockade of Iranian ports is proving effective, urging Tehran to “just give up” amid escalating tensions. Iran’s Parliament Speaker dismissed the blockade’s impact, stating it has only increased global oil prices, while tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt markets.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

This morning, Kensington and Chelsea council has issued a Section 215 order to Nicholas Halbritter, compelling action on his dilapidated Chelsea property, following resident complaints regarding ongoing issues affecting local home values.

Ukrainian forces claim their first victory capturing Russian positions exclusively with unmanned systems, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. This operation utilised drones and ground robots, marking a significant shift in warfare strategy. Stay updated on the latest developments.