LIVE German 2025 Election Results as they come in and analysi on who will be the next German Chancellor.

When are the German Elections?

The Elections are on Sunday the 23rd of Feb 2025

Why are they having a snap election?

The German coalition government failed a no confidence vote

Do Germans vote?

Germans vote in big numbers, usually as high 70+ percent voter turnout

Three gunmen shot dead in clash outside Israeli consulate in Istanbul

Three gunmen shot dead in clash outside Israeli consulate in Istanbul

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, three individuals were killed in a shooting incident near the Israeli consulate in Istanbul. Local authorities reported that one gunman was neutralised while two others were killed during the confrontation, signalling a potential surge in violence connected to Israel-Turkey relations. The Turkish government is currently investigating the motives behind the assault, which threatens to exacerbate existing diplomatic strains in the region. For further insights, see our coverage of global security developments.

In the wake of these events, market watchers are keenly observing the impact on regional security, particularly concerning energy supplies from the Middle East. Oil prices are susceptible to fluctuations given the geopolitical climate, with investors bracing for market volatility. Upcoming meetings, including discussions involving key Middle Eastern nations, will be closely monitored for any shifts in policy or escalation of hostilities.

Key developments across the world

Three people killed in gun clash near Israeli consulate in Istanbul, media says

GLOBAL SECURITY — A gun clash near the Israeli consulate in Istanbul resulted in the deaths of three individuals. Authorities reported that one assailant was killed and two others were ‘neutralised’ during the incident, raising concerns about security in the region.

This incident follows a series of attacks against Israeli interests abroad, marking a significant uptick in violence amid escalating tensions. The situation highlights security vulnerabilities for diplomatic missions and raises questions about the effectiveness of current protective measures.

Ben Roberts-Smith: Australian soldier charged over alleged war crimes

INTERNATIONAL LAW — Former Australian soldier Ben Roberts-Smith has been charged with five murders connected to alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. The charges follow a lengthy investigation into his conduct during military operations.

This marks a significant moment for accountability in the Australian Defence Force, pushing the boundaries on how former soldiers are scrutinised for their actions in combat. The case signals increasing commitments to uphold international humanitarian law among military personnel.

Donald Trump says US could destroy Iran ‘in one night’ as he demands opening of Strait of Hormuz

GLOBAL POLITICS — Donald Trump has stated that the U.S. could obliterate Iran swiftly if necessary, amidst tensions surrounding access to the Strait of Hormuz. His comments come as negotiations intended to de-escalate military confrontations appear to stall.

This situation reflects the extreme rhetoric often employed in U.S.-Iran relations, highlighting the fragility of diplomatic dialogues. Such threats can significantly heighten tensions in the Gulf region and have far-reaching implications for oil markets and global stability.

Iran’s 10-Point Proposal Demands an End to Attacks and Sanctions

DIPLOMACY — Iran has issued a 10-point proposal aimed at curtailing military conflicts and lifting sanctions. This proposal seeks to facilitate dialogue and resolve ongoing tensions between Iran and various international stakeholders.

The proposal highlights Iran’s desire for a diplomatic resolution while addressing its national security concerns, indicating a potential threshold for future negotiations. It underlines regional instability and the urgent need for collaborative approaches to conflict resolution.

Australia charges ex-soldier Roberts-Smith with Afghan war crimes

INTERNATIONAL LAW — Ben Roberts-Smith, a former Australian soldier, faces multiple charges related to war crimes during his service in Afghanistan. These charges follow years of allegations regarding unlawful killings and breaches of military law.

This development represents a significant move toward accountability for Australia’s armed forces and could set a precedent for how similar cases are prosecuted globally. The legal ramifications could reverberate throughout international military operations and human rights law standards.

What to watch — Continued developments on Iran’s diplomatic proposals may influence regional stability and relations with Western nations.

Further reading from global news sources

BBC News
One gunman killed, two others ‘neutralised’ in shooting at Israeli consulate in Istanbul, governor says

Reuters
Three people killed in gun clash near Israeli consulate in Istanbul, media says

The Guardian
Ben Roberts-Smith arrested: former Australian soldier charged with five war crime murders in Afghanistan

Al Jazeera
Australia charges ex-soldier Roberts-Smith with Afghan war crimes

Financial Times
Donald Trump says US could destroy Iran ‘in one night’ as he demands opening of Strait of Hormuz

How Children in London Acquire Knives – It’s Not Through the Dark Web | News UK

Get you up to speed: How Children in London Acquire Knives – It’s Not Through the Dark Web | News UK

KNIFE CRIME CRACKDOWN
Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall leads an initiative involving the WTXpolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Trading Standards to prevent shops from selling knives to those under eighteen.
IMPORTANT CRACKDOWN
Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall reported a 75% decline in knife crime in Tower Hamlets, aided by a doubling in knife seizures and ongoing retailer cooperation.
CRACKDOWN CONTINUES
Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall confirmed that knife crime in Tower Hamlets has decreased by approximately 75% as operations targeting retailers intensify.

What we know so far

Young police cadets in Bethnal Green are testing local retailers’ adherence to laws on selling knives to minors, amid rising concerns about knife crime in the area. The initiative aims to investigate whether shops comply with regulations that prohibit selling such items to individuals under 18.

This operation is part of a broader strategy led by the WTXpolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Trading Standards. The police reported an alarming statistic: knife crime claimed the lives of 52 young people in the past year, with 14 of those victims aged under 16. Christian Dalley from Trading Standards noted, “But now we’ll make sure we go there again,” following the test purchases.

During the checks, while some shops successfully refused sale, one establishment instructed the cadets on how to conceal a purchased knife, prompting further scrutiny from Trading Standards. Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall remarked that knife crime in Tower Hamlets has decreased by around 75%, expressing optimism that ongoing efforts will sustain this downward trend.

The operation underscores a proactive approach to community safety, with police committed to working alongside retailers rather than against them to ensure compliance. Immediate follow-up actions will assess additional establishments identified as potential violators.

Read in full

We find how children get hold of knives in London – and it’s not from the dark web | News UK

How Children in London Acquire Knives – It’s Not Through the Dark Web | News UK
Teenagers work alongside the WTXpolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Trading Standards to find whether certain shopsare willing to sell knives to children (Picture: Justin Griffiths-Williams)

It is not immediately obvious why Bethnal Green is the front line in the fight against knife crime.

But if you look closely enough, you will see the signs.

Corner shops, once where you might go and pick up some milk, the papers and a packet of 20. Now they sell knives – and not just little Swiss Army knives; they are large kitchen knives.

The shops might argue that they are dealing with supply and demand, but with knife crime claiming the lives of 52 young people in a single year (14 of whom were under 16), more clearly needs to be done.

WTX went along to the east London borough with two 16-year-olds and the Met Police to see just how easy it is for them to buy knives.

Operation Sceptre

London, UK, 26th March 2026: Young police cadets work alongside the WTXpolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Trading Standards to ascertain whether certain shops in are willing to sell knifes to children under eighteen.
Police cadets work with officers to help with the purchase tests(Picture: Justin Griffiths-Williams)

We visited four shops in Bethnal Green – retailers known to police for either failing previous test purchases or refusing to Sign up to the Responsible Retailer Scheme.

The two volunteer police cadets, who had been measured to make sure they do look reasonably under 18, appeared jittery.

One told me: ‘It’s hard to see what police and schools are actually doing about knife crime. At least we can say, we are trying as well.’

They have skin in the game – have seen stabbings and gang crimes in their own schools.

With a determined purpose, they walked in each shop one by one to see if they could buy knives.

‘Some just see it as a game’

Latest London news

To get the latest news from the capital, visit WTX’s London news hub.

As I pretended to browse through some Princess Charlotte mugs in the first shop, it appeared as though they were going to be successful. The shopkeeper took down a knife and went to ring it through the till.

It was only at the last second that they asked for ID.

The teenagers left the store, but we heard staff members gather round, shake hands and say things like ‘well done boy’ and ‘congratulations’. It appeared as though they knew it was a test.

Christian Dalley from Trading Standards said for some it appears to be a game. ‘But now we’ll make sure we go there again’, he added.

‘Just keep it out of your jacket when you walk out’

The next two shops passed the test with flying colours, but the fourth shop failed miserably.

What’s worse, the only time the cadets were stopped was when staff advised them to put the knife into a plastic bag or hide it under a jacket.

When Trading Standards pounced, shop staff refused to shake their hand before being given a prosecution notice.

London, UK, 26th March 2026: Young police cadets work alongside the WTXpolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Trading Standards to ascertain whether certain shops in are willing to sell knifes to children under eighteen.
Although knife crime is going down, it is still the weapon of choice for teenagers (Picture: Justin Griffiths-Williams)

‘Our plan is working’

London, UK, 26th March 2026: Young police cadets work alongside the WTXpolitan Police and Tower Hamlets Trading Standards to ascertain whether certain shops in are willing to sell knifes to children under eighteen. The photograph shows Detective Superintendent Vicky Turnstall who is leading the operation.
Detective Superintendent Vicky Turnstall who is leading the operation (Picture: Justin Griffiths-Williams)

So is the crackdown actually helping?

With an 11% drop in homicides and a doubling in the number of knives taken off the streets, police seem to think so.

Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall told WTX: ‘Knife crime in Tower Hamlets has gone down by around 75%, and we want to keep it that way.

‘We work with retailers – not against them – to keep people safe. But it means checking on the shops where we have intelligence that all is not the way it should be.’

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly unconscious amid health crisis

Get you up to speed: Iran‘s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly unconscious amid health crisis

Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, is reportedly unconscious and being treated for a severe medical condition in one of Iran’s holiest cities. His father, Ali Khamenei, was killed in an air strike in the early days of the war, with his body being prepared for burial in Qom.

Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, is reportedly unconscious due to a ‘severe’ medical condition, with American and Israeli intelligence indicating he is unable to participate in any decision-making by the regime. Following the air strike that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and other family members, Mojtaba is said to have sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured foot and facial lacerations, and he had initially sought treatment at Sina University Hospital in Tehran.

Mojtaba Khamenei’s current state is that he is reportedly unconscious and unable to participate in decision-making as he undergoes treatment for a severe medical condition. Meanwhile, his father’s body is being prepared for burial in Qom.

Iran’s Supreme Leader is ‘incapacitated’ and unable to run country | News World

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly unconscious amid health crisis
Iran’s new Supreme Leader hasn’t been seen in more than a month (Picture: Reuters)

Iran’s new Supreme Leader is reportedly unconscious in one of Iran’s holiest cities, unable to run the country he inherited from his dead father.

Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly being treated for a ‘severe’ medical condition, American and Israeli intelligence have found.

A memo shared amongst Gulf allies revealed Khamenei’s location for the first time, The Times reported.

The memo mentioned that Khamenei was ‘unable to be involved in any decision-making by the regime’.

As for his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an air strike in the early days of the war, his body is being prepared for burial in Qom.

The reports regarding the younger Khamenei are bound to spark futher speculation, after it was initially reported that he suffered serious injuries in the strike which killed his father.

SEI 288740972 02550d 7611Israel and the Gulf states on March 9, 2026, as the Middle East war sent oil prices soaring. (Photo by Hamid FOROUTAN / ISNA / AFP via Getty Images)” decoding=”async” loading=”lazy”/>
The extent of Khamenei’s injuries remains unclear (Picture: AFP)

There were claims that Khamenei lost one leg and suffered serious abdominal injuries in a US-Israeli air strike that wiped out his family. Some reports said he’s in a coma.

Still, days after the deadly strike and being named as the new Supreme Leader, he issued a written statement.

‘I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs,’ he said.

‘The revenge we are considering is not only related to the martyrdom of the great leader of the revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy is an independent subject for the revenge case.’

The legitimacy of the statement has come under scrutiny, given the claims about his health and the lack of any public appearance in more than a month.

epa12849314 Iranian people chant, wave flags and hold posters of the new Iranian supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei during a rally in support for the military, in Tehran, Iran, 25 March 2026. A joint US and Israeli military operation, launched on 28 February 2026, continues to target strategic sites across Iran. EPA/ABEDIN TAHERKENAREH
Iranians are still rallying behind Mojtaba, despite him not appearing for more than a month (Picture: EPA)

Gathering for Ramadan in the same bunker, Mojtaba Khamenei’s father, Ali Khamenei, mother, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, his wife of 20 years, Zahra and one of his sons, reported as Mohammad, were all killed in the strike that launched the war in late February.

In that strike, Mojtaba suffered a fractured foot, a bruise around his left eye, as well as minor lacerations to his face, a source familiar with the situation told CNN.

Initial reports said he was seeking treatment in the intensive care unit at Sina University Hospital in Tehran after being injured.

Dr Katayoun Shahandeh, a Lecturer in the history of Art and Museology, previously told WTX: ‘It is very likely that retaliation and resistance will become central themes in Mojtaba Khamenei’s leadership, at least in rhetoric.

‘The strikes that killed the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei (Mojtaba’s father) and members of his family will inevitably shape the political atmosphere in Tehran.

‘Reports suggest that Mojtaba himself was injured in the same attack and lost close relatives, which makes the moment not only political but deeply personal.’

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EU proposes AGILE funding programme to boost defence innovation efforts

EU proposes AGILE funding programme to boost defence innovation efforts

New Funding Proposal

The EU has introduced AGILE, a new funding programme aimed at expediting the development and deployment of innovative defence technologies for startups and SMEs.
Funding Innovation

The proposed AGILE programme aims to streamline funding for defence-oriented startups and SMEs, addressing the gap in rapid technology deployment in modern military contexts.
Official Response
“The AGILE proposal is essential in bridging the gap between technological innovation and practical deployment in defence,” stated a European Commission spokesperson.

Key developments

The EU is introducing AGILE, a funding programme designed to accelerate innovative defence technologies. This initiative specifically targets defence-oriented startups and SMEs to enhance military solution deployment.

Current EU funding mechanisms are criticised for being slow and complex, hindering access for agile companies. The AGILE programme aims to bridge the gap between technology development and real-world application.

Is AGILE, the EU’s new pilot, the answer to boosting defence innovation?

EU proposes AGILE funding programme to boost defence innovation efforts

New technologies develop faster than they can be bought and deployed, so many become outdated before they are even used.

At the same time, smaller and more agile companies drive much of the innovation but often cannot access the slow and complex EU funding programmes: the European system is strong in long-term research and large joint projects, but lacks tools for fast, flexible innovation. This creates a gap between the development of new technologies and their actual use in real-world situations.

The EU wants to adapt its defence approach to keep pace with this new pace of innovation. Part of this effort is a proposal called AGILE, a new funding programme to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative defence technologies. It aims to fund defence-oriented startups and SMEs to support new real-world military solutions faster than traditional EU programmes.

Can the EU react faster to new threats and keep up with the pace of modern warfare? Our poll is anonymous and takes just a few seconds to complete. The results will feature across the EU. XL coverage -in videos, articles, and newsletters- and will help shape our reporting as we explore how Europe can secure its place in the age of artificial intelligence.

US Supreme Court hears arguments on key voting rights case today

US Supreme Court hears arguments on key voting rights case today

The Supreme Court is set to hear a significant case today regarding the legality of race-conscious admissions policies at universities, a decision that could reshape the landscape of higher education across the United States. The justices will weigh challenges against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina, where plaintiffs argue that these policies discriminate against Asian American applicants. The Court’s ruling, expected by the end of June, will undoubtedly have implications for equity and access in academia and could ignite further debates on affirmative action practices.

In the markets, stocks are bracing for volatility as investors anticipate the outcome of this ruling, particularly within sectors heavily reliant on a diverse talent pool. Current sentiment reflects concerns that a change in admissions policies could affect workforce diversity, ultimately impacting long-term corporate performance. As the Court’s decision looms, observers will be closely watching for any reactions from higher education institutions and businesses regarding their admissions and hiring strategies.

Key developments across the United States

U.S. announces a new drone program to bolster Ukraine

US FOREIGN POLICY — The U.S. has launched a drone initiative in support of Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict.

This new program aims to provide advanced drone technology to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities against invading forces. The initiative underscores the U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine in its efforts to maintain sovereignty and territorial integrity.

White House proposes new safety regulations for tech firms

US LAW — New safety regulations targeting tech firms have been proposed by the White House.

The regulations aim to enhance user privacy and data security. This initiative reflects growing concerns over technology companies’ handling of personal information and seeks to establish stronger safeguards in the industry.

Trump’s business empire faces challenges from new audit findings

US BUSINESS — Challenges arise for a prominent business empire due to recent audit findings.

The audits have revealed discrepancies that might affect valuations and operations. This scrutiny could lead to significant financial implications and restructuring within the firm, highlighting the need for transparency in business practices.

New federal initiative targets school safety improvements

US SECURITY — A federal initiative aimed at enhancing safety measures in schools has been announced.

This initiative focuses on substantial funding for security upgrades and mental health resources. By prioritizing safety, the government aims to create a more secure educational environment for students and staff alike.

Biden administration seeks to boost renewable energy investments

US ENERGY — The Biden administration is promoting increased investments in renewable energy.

This effort reflects a commitment to tackling climate change and transitioning to sustainable energy sources. Enhanced funding and incentives are aimed at driving innovation in renewable technologies.

What to watch — Future developments on the implementation of safety regulations for tech firms and their impacts on user privacy are anticipated.

Further reading from US News sources

Washington Post
Trump’s Iran threat ‘like a bad jingle stuck in your head’

Politico
FBI searches Trump’s estate as part of top secret documents probe

New York Times
Trump moves ahead with a campaign for president

Associated Press
FBI search intensifies amid Trump’s legal troubles

Bloomberg
Trump investigation about to hit critical juncture, sources say

Epstein Survivor Plans Vigil Outside White House to Meet King Charles | News UK

Get you up to speed: Epstein Survivor Plans Vigil Outside White House to Meet King Charles | News UK

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Rina Oh plans a mock tea party outside the White House during King Charles’s state visit to urge him to fund therapy for Epstein’s survivors.
MENTAL HEALTH FUNDING
Rina Oh, an Epstein survivor, is urging King Charles III to fund therapy for victims, stating it reflects genuine support for their recovery and dignity.
MONARCHY RESPONSE
Rina Oh plans to hold a mock tea party outside the White House during King Charles’ visit, emphasising the need for funding therapy for Epstein survivors.

What we know so far

Rina Oh, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, has announced plans to hold a mock tea party outside the White House during King Charles’s upcoming state visit to the United States. Oh aims to reserve an empty chair for the King, hoping to discuss her demands with him.

Oh, who was groomed and assaulted by Epstein at the age of 21, is advocating for the Royal Family to fund therapy costs for survivors of Epstein’s abuse. This initiative has garnered support from World Without Exploitation, a leading anti-trafficking organisation.

King Charles is set to visit the US at the end of April to mark the 250th anniversary of American Independence, where he will meet President Trump. However, it has been confirmed that he will not meet with Epstein’s survivors during this trip due to ongoing UK police investigations related to Epstein. Oh has expressed her determination to be present in Washington, stating she plans to wait outside the gates for the King.

Despite the King’s statement that ‘their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse,’ many advocates, including Oh, continue to press for action on mental health support. Oh has requested that the Royal Family expand funding for survivors not covered under existing mental health initiatives.

Read in full

Epstein survivor threatens to sit outside White House and wait to meet King Charles | News UK

Rina Oh standing with King Charles over the White House.
Rina Oh said she’ll hold a mock tea party outside the White House when the King is on his state visit there (Picture: Splash/PA/Getty)

An Epstein survivor has said she is prepared to wait outside the White House to meet with King Charles during his state visit.

Rina Oh is willing to hold a mock tea party with other Epstein victims at the White House gates, with an empty chair reserved for the Monarch to sit down and talk with them.

The campaigner, who was groomed and sexually assaulted by Epstein from the age of 21, wants the Royals to prove they care about survivors by funding their therapy costs.

Her calls for the King to donate to mental health care for Epstein’s victims have been supported by the US’s leading anti-trafficking organisation, World Without Exploitation.

Rina Oh (Picture: Rina Oh/Instagram)
Rina Oh was lured into Epstein’s orbit with the promise of an art scholarship before he abused her (Picture: Rina Oh/Instagram)

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Charles will visit the US with Queen Camilla at the end of April to mark the 250th anniversary of American Independence, where he will meet President Trump and address Congress.

Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna, who spearheaded the release of the Epstein Files, wrote to the King last week asking him to meet the sex offender’s victims.

However, it is understood that Charles will not be able to meet survivors during the trip.

Oh, who lives in New Jersey, said that would not stop her from visiting Washington DC to see the Monarch.

She told WTX: ‘If the King and Queen really do support the victims, then it would be a nice gesture to meet with some of them. It would show that he cared.

‘I don’t mind gathering a group and going to Washington. We’ll just sit in and have afternoon tea in front of the White House gates.

‘I’ll just sit outside and wait for him.’

She added that they’ll set up a guest chair, with a sign reading ‘reserved for King Charles’.

File photo dated 17/09/25 of US President Donald Trump and King Charles III at the state banquet for the US President and First Lady Melania Trump at Windsor Castle, Berkshire, on day one of their second state visit to the UK. Donald Trump has declared the King's state visit to the US is going ahead, saying the monarch is coming to see him "very shortly". The American president said he was "looking forward" to meeting Charles, despite calls for the historic royal trip to be postponed because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Issue date: Tuesday March 17, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire
Oh is prepared to wait outside the White House while the King meets US President Trump (Picture: Yui Mok/PA Wire)

WTX understands the King and Queen’s position is that they will not be able to meet with survivors due to ongoing UK police investigations into matters related to Epstein.

The King’s brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested by Thames Valley Police in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

There are fears any Royal meeting with victims would risk prejudicing these investigations into Andrew.

Virginia Giuffre accused Andrew of sexual abuse, which he denies.

The King and Queen said in a statement in October that ‘their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.’

Andrew has always denied any wrongdoing in relation to his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

Survivor Teresa Helm told WTX last week she was disappointed the King will not be able to meet survivors, saying a gathering would help police investigations.

Oh has one clear request of the King if she met him: fund therapy for survivors.

Annie Farmer, a survivor of deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking ring, center, speaks during a news conference outside the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US, on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025. Survivors of deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking ring called on Congress to pass legislation requiring the Trump administration to release all unclassified material gathered in a federal investigation of the operation, including information on clients who abused underage girls. Photographer: Kayla Bartkowski/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Oh says that many Epstein survivors do not have the funding to access vital mental health support (Picture: Bloomberg via Getty Images)

‘We want action’

The mum-of-two, who was lured into Epstein’s orbit with promises of an art scholarship before he began abusing her, said: ‘We don’t need any apologies. We want action.

‘If he were really sorry, he would support the victims by making sure they get proper mental health treatment.

‘I know the royal family is very big into mental health care.

‘Some victims are a complete mess. There are lots of non-functional survivors.’

The US Virgin Islands is currently running a $10 million mental health fund for some Epstein survivors, financed by a settlement from JPMorgan Chase Bank over their alleged links to Epstein’s trafficking.

However, only a limited number of survivors- Oh estimates around 200 – who were involved in past Epstein-related lawsuits are eligible, and the fund is due to expire in 2028.

The FBI and Department of Justice estimate that Jeffrey Epstein had more than 1,000 victims.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at the Piazza San Francesco in Ravenna, ahead of a visit to Dante's Tomb, where they will hear a reading of Dante's Divine Comedy, on the last day of the four day state visit to Italy. Picture date: Thursday April 10, 2025. PA Photo. Dante lived in Ravenna after he was exiled from Florence for his political beliefs. Since September 2020 the Dante Museum has held a daily reading from the Divine Comedy to celebrate the 700th anniversary of his death. See PA story ROYAL Tour. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire
The King and Queen have expressed their support for victims (Picture: Aaron Chown/PA Wire)

Oh says that the Royal Family should begin funding therapy for survivors not covered by the Virgin Islands programme and replace that fund when it expires in 2028.

She said: ‘New victims are coming forward every day. The more we speak out, the more people come forward.

‘I know a decent number of women have not joined these lawsuits and are not getting therapy.

‘Victims need continuing mental health care. If they have to stop and go cold Turkey in 2028, it may actually cause them to regress.

‘If you really feel sorry, you will help the victims rehabilitate.

‘It would not be an admission of wrongdoing, but it would mean that the King’s words are not in vain when he said that he supports the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein. We would probably respect him.’

Anti-trafficking organisation World Without Exploitation, one of the lead groups supporting Epstein survivors, said they ‘absolutely support’ Oh’s demand.

Their national director, Lauren Hersh, said: ‘For decades, many survivors have carried the weight of unimaginable trauma without acknowledgment or compensation.

‘Providing comprehensive mental health support is not only necessary—it is a moral obligation. If the royal family were to fund these services, it would send a powerful and long-overdue message: that survivors are heard, their suffering is recognized, and accountability matters.’

Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales attends a meeting during a visit to Mental Health Innovations (MHI) in London, on March 6, 2025. (Photo by Kin Cheung / POOL / AFP) (Photo by KIN CHEUNG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Prince William, Prince of Wales, attends a meeting during a visit to Mental Health Innovations (MHI) in London (Picture: KIN CHEUNG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Oh also pointed to the Royal Family’s long history of supporting mental health causes as a reason why they would want to help Epstein’s survivors.

The King is patron of Combat Stress, where he has taken an active interest in their work to provide specialist mental health treatment to former service personnel with military-related trauma. 

He is also the ‘highlight[s] the importance of mental health’ as patron of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are particular advocates for mental health support.

Their Royal Foundation is contributing £1m to develop a National Suicide Prevention Network, and they launched a ‘Heads Together’ campaign to end stigma around mental health in 2016.

Oh also said the Royal Family could set up a scholarship fund for vocational training and higher education for survivors.

She added: ‘Before they met Jeffrey Epstein, a lot of these girls had career aspirations and dreams, and he crushed them. That is what he did with me.

‘A lot of victims never graduated from high school or went to college or had a career.’

The mum says she knows the importance of finding this purpose as she is due to begin a Master’s in Fine Arts in June.

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