The world's attention is focused on escalating tensions in Iran, as US President Donald Trump continues to ratchet up pressure on Tehran following recent air strikes. In a stark warning from the Nato summit in Turkey, Trump branded Iranian leaders 'scum' and vowed to 'hit the Iranian regime hard', sparking fears of an all-out conflict in the region.
In a by-election that promises to be one of the most unpredictable contests in recent years, Count Binface has thrown his hat into the ring against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The serial election candidate, who previously ran as a satirical candidate, made light of his decision, stating he would 'eat Reform UK leader Nigel Farage for breakkie'. Labour, the Conservatives, and the Liberal Democrats have all ruled out standing in Clacton, fuelling speculation about a high-stakes battle.
Reform UK's fortunes are under increasing scrutiny, with allegations emerging that senior figures within the party were involved in 'transactions worth millions' with foreign donors. An investigation by The Guardian reveals that these transactions were reported to the National Crime Agency, while Scotland Yard is separately probing an alleged £37,500 donation made to Robert Jenrick during his Conservative Party leadership bid.
Labour leadership contender Andy Burnham has outlined ambitious plans to bolster Britain's 'hard power', including redirecting billions of pounds in defence spending towards British companies. The Times reports that this move aims to strengthen the domestic defence industry and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Tesco, the UK's largest supermarket chain, is mulling over a drastic shift in its business strategy with plans to sell off its European operations. This potential divestment would mark the end of a three-decade effort to build a global empire and bring an abrupt halt to ambitions to establish a new supermarket chain in the US.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to introduce landmark legislation aimed at deporting Shabir Ahmed, the ringleader of the notorious Rochdale grooming gang. The Times reports that Mahmood will detail plans to amend existing laws and facilitate Ahmed's deportation, following his release from prison last week after serving 14 years for child rape offences.