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South Africa Deports Over 53,000 in Migration Crackdown

Report

South Africa Deports Over 53,000 in Migration Crackdown

South Africa says it has deported or repatriated more than 53,000 foreign nationals in the five weeks since launching a nationwide migration enforcement campaign, with officials indicating the total is expected to rise as operations continue.

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Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said on Sunday that 53,499 people had been processed for deportation or repatriation. She said most were from Malawi, followed by Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
The campaign is one of South Africa's largest efforts in recent years to remove undocumented migrants and comes after weeks of anti-immigration protests across parts of the country.
Government Reports Mass Deportations
Demonstrators have called for stricter border controls and the mass deportation of undocumented migrants, arguing they contribute to unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Some activist groups have threatened to continue holding weekly protests until the government meets their demands. There are concerns that further demonstrations could become violent after earlier protests were marked by intimidation, looting and attacks targeting migrants.
Protests Drive Pressure on Government
Protest organisers had also declared an unofficial deadline of 30 June for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa. The climate of fear has prompted many foreign nationals to leave the country, while governments including Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya have arranged flights to repatriate their citizens.
Government Stresses Human Rights
Speaking at a news conference in Pretoria, Kubayi said the government was seeking to maintain an orderly migration system while respecting the rights of everyone living in the country.
"We are striving to achieve an orderly and regular migration which is mindful and sensitive to the concerns raised by our people, while observing human rights and dignity of all people in our country, irrespective of their citizenship and immigration status," she said.
Kubayi added that the deportation process had also led to the arrest of individuals wanted by police for alleged criminal offences.
She said immigration laws would continue to be enforced but warned protesters against carrying out unauthorised searches of homes or businesses suspected of sheltering undocumented migrants.
UN Warns Against Scapegoating Migrants
The United Nations has cautioned against blaming migrants for South Africa's economic and social problems, warning that they should not be made scapegoats for the country's challenges.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns over immigration while condemning attacks on foreign nationals. He has urged citizens not to take the law into their own hands.
South Africa, the continent's largest economy by industrial output and one of its wealthiest nations, has long attracted migrants seeking better economic opportunities, with some entering the country illegally.

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13 July 2026

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July 13Jul 13

US Says Hormuz Remains Open After Fresh Iran Strikes

Iranian Conflict

US Says Hormuz Remains Open After Fresh Iran Strikes

The United States has insisted the Strait of Hormuz remains open despite Iran declaring the strategic waterway closed following a new wave of military exchanges between the two countries.

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Fighting intensified over the weekend after the US said it had struck more than 140 targets across Iran. Washington said the operation was launched in response to an Iranian attack on a commercial vessel transiting the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of targeting the ship because it was using what Iran described as an unauthorised route.
US Vows to Keep Strait Open Amid Escalating Conflict
Iran announced early on Sunday that the strait was closed until further notice as it sought to tighten control over one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also launched attacks against US bases and regional allies, significantly widening the conflict.
The IRGC said it had struck a US military base in Jordan, while the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain all reported intercepting or responding to Iranian missiles and drones.
The BBC said it had contacted US Central Command (Centcom) for comment on the reported strike in Jordan.
Iran Expands Regional Attacks
Qatar, which has played a key role in ceasefire mediation, had not come under attack since April, while the UAE had avoided strikes since May.
Later on Sunday, Centcom announced another round of attacks on Iranian targets, saying operations had begun at 17:00 ET (22:00 BST). The US military said the strikes were intended to further reduce Iran's ability to target civilian vessels and commercial shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's IRNA news agency also reported that missiles launched by what it described as the "enemy" had targeted Qeshm Island, home to a strategically important IRGC base in the Gulf.
Ceasefire Under Threat
The renewed fighting has cast serious doubt over an interim ceasefire agreement reached last month, which was intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lay the groundwork for a permanent end to the conflict.
Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire effectively over following Iranian attacks, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Washington of violating the agreement.
Despite the escalation, Trump said diplomatic talks would continue as mediators sought to revive the peace process.
US media reported that Iranian officials had told their American counterparts that recent attacks on oil tankers were accidental and blamed a rogue internal faction.
Commercial Vessel Targeted
The latest escalation began after the IRGC said it had fired a naval cruise missile at a vessel sailing along what it described as an unauthorised route.
Centcom said Iranian forces had "blatantly attacked" the Cyprus-flagged MV GFS Galaxy, leaving the ship unable to continue after its engine room was damaged. It added that one crew member was missing.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said military authorities had informed it that the crew abandoned the vessel and escaped in a lifeboat.
Centcom said Iran had once again failed to honour previous commitments to protect commercial shipping after earlier attacks.
According to the US military, its retaliatory strikes hit 140 Iranian military targets, including missile and drone facilities, communications infrastructure and coastal surveillance sites.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth shared the announcement on social media, writing: "Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay."
Iran confirmed that several coastal military bases and telecommunications towers had been targeted.
In response, Tehran said the first phase of its retaliation included strikes on Jordan's Prince Hassan Air Base, claiming it had destroyed the base's command centre and MQ-9 drone hangars.
Later on Sunday, Centcom reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remained open and said US forces were positioned to ensure commercial traffic could continue moving through the vital waterway.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf wrote on X that the "era of one-sided deals is OVER", adding: "We told you: keep your word or pay the price. Reality is knocking."

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13 July 2026

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July 13Jul 13

Mitch McConnell Says Fall and Pneumonia Delay Return

USA

Mitch McConnell Says Fall and Pneumonia Delay Return

US Senator Mitch McConnell has said he will not return to the Senate "quite yet" after revealing he suffered a fall that left him briefly unconscious and was later diagnosed with a mild case of pneumonia.

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The 84-year-old Kentucky Republican issued his first public statement since being admitted to hospital on 14 June, ending weeks of speculation about his health. His office also released a photograph showing McConnell with his wife, former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, holding what appeared to be Sunday's edition of The Washington Post.
Health Update After Weeks of Silence
McConnell said doctors had carried out extensive medical tests to determine what caused the fall.
"I was briefly unconscious," he said, adding that physicians had confirmed he had not suffered any broken bones, a concussion, a heart attack or a stroke. He also said doctors found no tumours or haemorrhages.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
McConnell said he was now recovering in a rehabilitation centre after also developing a mild case of pneumonia during his hospital stay.
Reflecting on his absence, he acknowledged that many people of his generation are reluctant to discuss the effects of ageing.
He also referred to the long-term impact of contracting polio at the age of two, which left part of his left leg paralysed. McConnell said the mobility challenges caused by the illness have become more difficult with age and contributed to the circumstances surrounding his fall.
Although frustrated by the pace of his recovery, McConnell said his doctors had advised him not to return to the Senate floor to vote until he had recovered further.
Pressure for Greater Transparency
Questions about McConnell's condition intensified as his hospital stay stretched close to a month with few public updates.
Earlier this week, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear urged the senator to provide more information about his health, calling for greater transparency amid concerns over his ability to continue serving in office.
McConnell's staff had previously confirmed only that he was admitted to hospital for treatment on 14 June. On 2 July, his office said he was receiving excellent care and continuing to improve, but few additional details were released.
The publication of the photograph alongside Sunday's statement also followed criticism directed at Elaine Chao after she travelled to China while McConnell remained in hospital. Chinese officials confirmed she met Vice-President Han Zheng in Beijing on 17 June, three days after McConnell's admission. A spokesperson for Chao previously said the senator's condition did not require her immediate return.
Retirement Plans Unchanged
McConnell, the longest-serving Senate party leader in US history, has experienced several health setbacks in recent years, including injuries from a fall in 2024 and a hospital admission for influenza earlier this year.
He reiterated that he still intends to retire when his current Senate term ends in January but said he remains committed to completing his remaining work.
"Part of my decision to retire at the end of my term this coming January was being honest about the demands of Senate work," McConnell said.
"But I still have unfinished business to complete on your behalf, and I have every intention of finishing the job you elected me to do."

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13 July 2026

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July 13Jul 13

Thousands May Have Died in Record UK Heat Waves

UK

Thousands May Have Died in Record UK Heat Waves

More than 2,700 people may have died from heat-related causes during the UK's exceptionally hot weather in May and June, according to estimates by researchers from Imperial College London, the Met Office and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

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Scientists Estimate Thousands Died During Record UK Heat
The estimate is based on modelling using previous death records and existing knowledge about the health impacts of extreme heat, rather than confirmed mortality data.
Researchers believe most of the deaths occurred during June, which became the warmest June on record in England. Temperatures reached 37.7C at Lingwood in Norfolk, surpassing the previous June record of 35.6C set in 1957.
A rare red heat alert was issued across parts of England and Wales during the June heatwave, warning that the extreme temperatures posed a significant risk to life, including for healthy people.
Record Temperatures Fuelled by Heat Dome
May also saw record-breaking temperatures, with the mercury reaching 35.1C at Kew Gardens on 26 May. That exceeded the previous May record of 32.8C, first set in 1922 and matched in 1944.
Scientists said both heatwaves were driven by a "heat dome" – a persistent area of high pressure that trapped hot air over the UK.
The researchers said human-caused climate change intensified the heat, with global warming of around 1.4C since pre-industrial times adding an estimated 3C to 4C to peak temperatures during the two heatwaves.
High overnight temperatures and humid conditions, particularly in June, also prevented many people from cooling down, increasing the health risks.
Extreme Heat Poses Serious Health Risks
Experts warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat places significant strain on the body, especially when dehydration occurs. The heart must work harder to regulate body temperature, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes and other potentially fatal medical emergencies.
Older people, babies and those with existing health conditions remain among the most vulnerable, although researchers stressed that dangerous heat can affect anyone, including otherwise healthy individuals.
Extreme heat is often described as a "silent killer" because early symptoms can be difficult to recognise before serious illness develops.
Many homes across the UK are also poorly designed to cope with sustained high temperatures, leaving residents more exposed during prolonged heatwaves.
More Frequent Heatwaves Expected
The researchers emphasised that their estimate is based on statistical modelling and may differ from the eventual official figures.
Dr Clair Barnes, an expert in extreme weather and climate change at Imperial College London, said the estimates were intended to raise awareness of the dangers posed by extreme heat. She said if greater public awareness leads people to better protect themselves during future heatwaves, even if the estimates prove too high, that would be a positive outcome.
Researchers noted that predicted heat-related deaths in 2025 ultimately proved to be about half of the expected 3,039 fatalities, with heat health alerts and action by the NHS and care system believed to have reduced the impact.
Scientists also warned that, without stronger action to cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve adaptation measures, heat-related deaths in parts of northern Europe could approach those caused by cold weather within the next few decades. They added that heatwaves are expected to become more frequent, longer-lasting and more intense as global temperatures continue to rise.

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13 July 2026

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July 13Jul 13

US Senator and Trump Ally Lindsey Graham Dies at 71

USA

US Senator and Trump Ally Lindsey Graham Dies at 71

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, one of US President Donald Trump's closest political allies and a leading voice on American foreign policy, has died at the age of 71 following what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness."

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A statement released by Graham's office said he died on Saturday evening. His family requested privacy during "this incredibly difficult period."
The South Carolina senator had recently returned from Ukraine, where he met President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. There had been no public indication of any health concerns before the trip.
Leading Republican Voice
Graham was first elected to the US Senate in 2002 and went on to become one of Washington's most influential Republican lawmakers, particularly on national security and foreign policy. He also served as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee.
A long-time advocate for strong US support for Ukraine, Graham had been working on a new version of a Russia sanctions bill during his latest visit to Kyiv. He said the legislation would provide "tools to President Trump to end this war."
President Donald Trump paid tribute to his longtime ally in a social media post, describing Graham as a "true American Patriot."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was "deeply saddened" by the senator's death.
Writing on X, Zelensky said Graham had visited Ukraine 10 times since Russia's full-scale invasion began and had stood "with our people when it was most needed."
"America and the world have lost a determined leader," Zelensky added.
From Critic to Close Ally
Graham's relationship with Trump underwent a dramatic transformation over the past decade.
During the 2016 presidential campaign, he was one of Trump's harshest Republican critics. In a 2015 interview with CNN, Graham described Trump as "a race-baiting, xenophobic, religious bigot." He also warned on social media that nominating Trump would lead Republicans to defeat.
Following the 6 January 2021 attack on the US Capitol, Graham appeared to distance himself from the president.
"Trump and I, we've had a hell of a journey. I hate it to end this way," he said in a speech on the Senate floor. "All I can say is count me out. Enough is enough."
Despite those remarks, Graham later became one of Trump's strongest supporters. He voted against convicting Trump during his 2021 impeachment trial and backed his successful 2024 presidential campaign.
In a 2023 interview with the BBC, Graham acknowledged what he called Trump's "dark side" but said he continued to support him because of his record on border security, the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani and the appointment of conservative judges.
Strong Foreign Policy Advocate
Throughout his Senate career, Graham was known for advocating a robust US role in global security.
He strongly opposed the 2021 withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, calling it "a sad and dangerous event for US national security" and warning that extremist groups would view it as a sign of American weakness.
Graham was also a staunch supporter of Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute on Sunday, saying Graham understood that "the security of Israel and America are inseparable."
"Lindsey understood that the security of Israel and America are inseparable," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel had lost "one of its greatest friends."


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12 July 2026

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July 12Jul 12

US Launches New Iran Strikes After Strait of Hormuz Closure

Iranian Conflict

US Launches New Iran Strikes After Strait of Hormuz Closure

The United States has launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iran after Tehran attacked a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz and announced the closure of the strategic waterway.

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Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the strait had been closed until further notice and warned that any further US "aggression" would be met with a severe response.
US Central Command (Centcom) said it carried out its third round of strikes this week after the IRGC attacked the Cyprus-flagged MV GFS Galaxy in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Centcom, the vessel suffered significant engine room damage and was unable to continue its voyage. One civilian crew member was reported missing.
Fresh US strikes follow attack on commercial vessel
The UK's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said military authorities had informed it that the crew abandoned the ship and were in a lifeboat.
Centcom said the latest operation targeted 140 Iranian military sites, including missile and drone facilities, communications infrastructure and coastal surveillance positions.


video screenshot

In a statement posted on X, Centcom said Iran had been given another opportunity to comply with earlier understandings following previous attacks on commercial shipping but had failed to do so. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared the statement, adding: "Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay."
Iran retaliates across the region
Iran acknowledged that US strikes had hit several coastal bases and telecommunications towers along its southern coastline.
In response, the IRGC said it launched the first phase of retaliatory attacks, claiming to have struck the Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan and destroyed its command centre and MQ-9 drone hangars.
Iran also said it launched missiles and drones toward US allies in the Gulf, with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain responding to the attacks.
Earlier on Sunday, Iranian state media reported that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed after Iranian forces fired a naval cruise missile at a vessel travelling on what Tehran described as an unapproved route.
The IRGC said the ship ignored repeated warnings before being hit by warning fire and stopped. It also warned that any military response to the closure would result in further attacks on US bases across the region.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf wrote on X that the "era of one-sided deals is OVER", adding: "We told you: keep your word or pay the price. Reality is knocking."
Tensions grow despite diplomatic efforts
The latest escalation follows attacks earlier this week on three commercial tankers travelling along a US-recommended route through Omani waters. Iran has maintained that the only safe passage is through routes under its control.
Those incidents prompted earlier US strikes that Iranian officials said killed 17 people and injured 115 others. Iran subsequently launched attacks on US allies in the Gulf.
US President Donald Trump said Iran's actions meant the ceasefire was over, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Washington of violating the agreement.
Despite the fighting, Trump said diplomatic talks would continue as mediators worked to revive negotiations. US media reported that Iranian officials privately told American counterparts the tanker attacks had been a mistake caused by a rogue internal group.
US officials have said they want Iran to publicly declare that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping and commit to ending attacks on commercial vessels.
New supreme leader vows revenge
The confrontation comes days after Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued his first public statement since succeeding his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an air strike on 28 February during the opening day of the US-Israeli war against Iran.
Speaking in a statement broadcast on state television following his father's funeral, Mojtaba Khamenei said revenge was the "will of the nation" and pledged to avenge those killed in the conflict.
During funeral ceremonies, many mourners carried placards calling for the killing of President Trump, who warned on Saturday that any attempt on his life would result in the US "decimat[ing] and destroy[ing] all areas" of Iran.
The Wall Street Journal and other US media reported that Israel had shared intelligence with Washington alleging Iran had recently developed a plan to assassinate Trump. However, the US president denied there had been any new plot or that Israel had provided the intelligence, saying he had been Iran's "No. 1 [on Iran's kill list] for a long time."


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12 July 2026

• 3 comments
• 611 views

webfact

July 12Jul 12

US Congressman Says Armed Settlers Detained Him in West Bank

Middle East

US Congressman Says Armed Settlers Detained Him in West Bank

US Congressman Ro Khanna has said he was detained by armed Israeli settlers while visiting the occupied West Bank, describing the incident as a stark example of the conditions faced by Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.

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The California Democrat told Reuters that the incident occurred on Wednesday during a visit to a Palestinian village in the southern West Bank that has experienced repeated attacks by Israeli settlers.
Khanna said his delegation had been inspecting a village where buildings, including a school, had been destroyed when settlers carrying US-made M4 rifles surrounded their vehicle and blocked the road.
Khanna Criticises Israeli Forces
According to Khanna, the settlers prevented the group from leaving before contacting the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
"And these hoodlums ... detain us. They block off the road. And then they call the IDF and the IDF is on their side, not on the side of the Americans," Khanna told Reuters.
He said the settlers and Israeli soldiers showed little concern that US citizens, including a member of Congress, were being held.
Khanna said the experience highlighted what he described as "the arrogance of power" and a culture created by a lack of accountability.
His aide, Cameron Kasky, also said on X that he witnessed the incident, writing that Israeli forces "showed up to back up the settlers, not the US congressman."
Khanna later told The New York Times that the group remained detained for about 90 minutes before being able to continue after contacting the US Embassy and Israeli police. He said the experience left him feeling powerless and offered insight into what many Palestinians endure under occupation.
Israeli Military Response
The Israeli military said troops and police responded after receiving reports that settlers were obstructing vehicles near the Palestinian hamlet of Khirbet Zanuta.
The village's residents were forced to leave following violent settler attacks after the Hamas assault on Israel in October 2023.
More than 700,000 Israelis live in settlements across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. The United Nations considers the settlements illegal under international law, although Israel disputes that position. Israel has also faced repeated international criticism over settler violence in the territory.
Political Remarks
Asked whether he plans to seek the US presidency, Khanna told Reuters he was "strongly considering it" and said the events during his trip had strengthened that resolve.
Khanna has been among the most outspoken Democratic critics of Israel's military campaign in Gaza and its occupation of the West Bank. He has also argued that US support for Israel's actions contributed to the Democratic Party's defeat in the 2024 presidential election.

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12 July 2026

• 19 comments
• 822 views

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July 11Jul 11

Iran's Supreme Leader Vows Revenge for Father's Death

Iranian Conflict

Iran's Supreme Leader Vows Revenge for Father's Death

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed to avenge the death of his father and predecessor, Ali Khamenei, in his first public statement since taking over the country's leadership.

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The written message, read on Iranian state television, described revenge as the "will of the nation" and came as funeral ceremonies for Ali Khamenei continued. The former supreme leader was killed in a US-Israeli air strike on 28 February, the opening day of the conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel.
Ali Khamenei was buried on Friday in his hometown of Mashhad.
Vow of Retaliation
Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public since before the war, amid reports that he was injured and disfigured in the strike that killed his father.
In his statement, he pledged to continue the campaign for retaliation.
He added that the effort would continue regardless of who remained in office, saying its fulfilment did not depend on his personal leadership or that of other officials.
During funeral events across Iran, many mourners carried placards calling for the death of US President Donald Trump. On Saturday, Trump warned that any attempt to assassinate him would prompt the United States to "decimate and destroy all areas" of Iran.
Conflict and Diplomatic Efforts
US media, including The Wall Street Journal, reported this week that Israel had shared intelligence suggesting Iran had recently developed a plan to assassinate Trump. However, the US president denied both that Tehran had launched a new plot and that Israel had been the source of such intelligence. He told the New York Post that he had been Iran's "No. 1" target for a long time.
The conflict began on 28 February when US and Israeli forces launched strikes against Iran. Tehran responded with attacks on Israel as well as US targets and allies in the Gulf.
Although the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire in June to facilitate negotiations, tensions have risen again following attacks on three commercial tankers travelling through US-recommended shipping lanes in waters off Oman. Iran has maintained that the only safe route is through its own territorial waters.
Iranian officials said subsequent US strikes killed 17 people and injured 115. Tehran then launched retaliatory strikes against US allies in the Gulf.
The latest exchange led Trump to declare the ceasefire over, although he said negotiations would continue with the help of international mediators.
US officials have reportedly demanded through intermediaries that Iran publicly guarantee the Strait of Hormuz will remain open to international shipping and commit to ending attacks on commercial vessels.
According to US media reports, Iranian officials privately told their American counterparts that the tanker attacks were a mistake carried out by a rogue internal group.


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12 July 2026

• 14 comments
• 507 views

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July 11Jul 11

New York Times Reporters Subpoenaed Over Air Force One Report

USA

New York Times Reporters Subpoenaed Over Air Force One Report

Several New York Times journalists have been subpoenaed to testify under oath after reporting on alleged security concerns surrounding President Donald Trump's new Air Force One aircraft.

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According to the newspaper, federal agents delivered subpoenas to some reporters at their homes, ordering them to appear before a federal grand jury investigating a possible federal crime.
Journalists Ordered to Testify
The Justice Department confirmed it is investigating alleged illegal leaks of classified information but said the journalists themselves are not the focus of the inquiry.
Reports Raised Security Questions
The New York Times recently published reports citing unnamed sources who claimed the Boeing 747-8, donated by Qatar, lacked key security capabilities required for presidential travel.
One report said the Secret Service advised Trump to switch to an older Air Force One aircraft for his return journey after attending a Nato summit in Turkey. Another said officials were concerned the newer plane did not yet include advanced defensive systems, including anti-missile protection.
Other media outlets, including CBS News, also reported similar concerns. A former US government official told CBS there had not been enough time or funding to equip the aircraft with all the security features needed for Air Force One service.
Press Freedom Concerns
The subpoenas reportedly require the journalists to appear before a grand jury in Manhattan to provide testimony regarding an alleged violation of federal criminal law.
David McCraw, the New York Times' senior newsroom lawyer, condemned the move, describing it as a "brazen act" aimed at intimidating journalists and discouraging reporting on matters of public interest.
The newspaper noted that while leaking classified information can be a criminal offence, the US Constitution protects the press's right to publish information in the public interest.
The Justice Department said it recognises the importance of a free press but also has a responsibility to investigate the unauthorised disclosure of classified information.
Trump Dismisses Concerns
The reports emerged during a period of heightened tensions with Iran, as the United States carried out military strikes while diplomatic efforts over a ceasefire continued.
Asked about the reported security concerns, Trump dismissed them, saying: "I have a threat all the time. I'm No. 1 on their list."
Last month, Trump unveiled the Boeing 747-8 that Qatar donated to the United States as an "unconditional" gift. The aircraft, valued at about $400 million (£300 million), was modified for presidential transport.
The US Air Force said the jet received upgrades covering security, communications, logistics support and advanced technology, adding that any identified risks associated with using a previously owned aircraft had been addressed.


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12 July 2026

• 19 comments
• 865 views

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July 11Jul 11

Iran Admits Strait Attacks Were a Mistake, US Says

Iranian Conflict

Iran Admits Strait Attacks Were a Mistake, US Says

Iranian officials have privately told advisers to U.S. President Donald Trump that attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz were a mistake and were carried out by an "errant" group of hardliners seeking to derail ongoing negotiations, according to senior U.S. officials.

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The officials said Tehran has expressed a desire to continue talks with Washington, with negotiations scheduled to take place in Oman on Saturday.
The White House is pressing Iran to publicly acknowledge what it describes as a violation of the ceasefire after the attacks on commercial shipping.
Trump Keeps Diplomatic Effort on Track
President Trump has instructed his negotiating team, led by Vice President JD Vance, Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to continue pursuing a diplomatic agreement.
U.S. officials said Washington remains prepared to use military and economic pressure if Iran carries out further hostile actions.
One senior official described Iran's message as an admission of error, saying Tehran had returned to negotiations after acknowledging it had "made a mistake" and wanted discussions to continue.
Dispute Over Shipping Attacks
According to U.S. officials, Iran has claimed the attacks on commercial vessels were initiated by a rogue faction within its system that was attempting to undermine the negotiations.
The Trump administration, however, disputes that explanation. Officials said the United States believes Iran reacted after being surprised by the volume of commercial traffic using the southern shipping lane along the Omani coast.
Washington had expected that route to remain open under an existing memorandum, but officials believe Iran reversed course after seeing how much oil and gas shipping continued through the passage.
Following Saturday's talks, the administration expects Iran to confirm that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open and managed as it was before the recent conflict. One official warned that if Tehran adopts a different position, the outcome would not be favourable for Iran.
Another official described the current situation as a "wait-and-see" moment.
Nuclear Issue Still Looms
U.S. officials said President Trump is allowing negotiators time to seek an agreement, although they stressed that patience is limited.
They also said Washington would prefer to recover what the president has referred to as the "nuclear dust" — the remaining elements of Iran's nuclear programme — through peaceful means. However, officials said other options remain available if Iran does not, in their words, behave like a "normal country."
Officials argued that if Iran cannot honour what Washington considers the simplest part of any agreement — keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to international trade — negotiations are unlikely to progress to the more difficult issue of Iran's nuclear programme.
The officials declined to comment on reports that Israeli intelligence uncovered alleged plots targeting President Trump, but said the president does not make decisions based on fear or threats.

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11 July 2026

• 24 comments
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July 11Jul 11

Trump Left Orders to Bomb Iran if He's Assassinated

Trump

Trump Left Orders to Bomb Iran if He's Assassinated

President Donald Trump has said he has left standing instructions for the United States to launch an overwhelming military strike against Iran if he is assassinated, amid renewed attention on threats against him and heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.

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Speaking to the New York Post on Friday, Trump said Iran had targeted him for years and claimed he had already directed how the U.S. should respond if such an attack were carried out.
"I've been on their list for a long time. That's what we're dealing with," Trump said. "The only thing is, I've left instructions — if anything happens, to just literally bomb them at levels that they've never seen before."
Assassination Threats
Trump's remarks came a day after The Wall Street Journal reported that Israel had shared intelligence with U.S. officials suggesting there was a new Iranian plot to assassinate the president.
However, Trump dismissed suggestions that Israel had uncovered fresh information.
"No, no. Israel came up with nothing. No, no," he said. "I've been No. 1 [on Iran's kill list] for a long time, and it's the way life is."
CNN, citing U.S. officials, reported that the Israeli intelligence may have been intended to influence Trump's thinking as he considers whether to expand military action against Iran. According to the report, Israel has advocated for stronger military intervention, while Trump has continued to pursue negotiations despite the escalating conflict.
Long-Running Hostility
Iran has been accused of seeking revenge against Trump since he ordered the January 2020 U.S. strike that killed senior Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani.
Reuters also reported that during funeral processions this week for Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, crowds chanted "Death to America," while banners reading "We Will Kill Trump" were displayed.
Earlier this week, Trump also referred to the threats while speaking to reporters at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.
"I'm their No. 1 target because they're scum," he said.
Questions were also raised after Trump returned from Turkey aboard the older Air Force One rather than the newer aircraft gifted by Qatar. The White House played down any suggestion that the decision reflected increased security concerns.
Military Escalation
Relations between Washington and Tehran have deteriorated sharply in recent days.
The United States carried out strikes on 90 targets inside Iran on Wednesday after Tehran targeted shipping vessels in the strategic strait. The military action marked a significant escalation in the confrontation between the two countries.
On Friday, Trump said Iran had requested that peace talks continue and that Washington had agreed to further negotiations. At the same time, he declared that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran was "over."
Earlier in the week, the president also ended the U.S. sanctions waiver covering Iranian oil exports, increasing economic pressure on Tehran.

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11 July 2026

• 28 comments
• 1,000 views

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July 10Jul 10

Palm Beach Airport Becomes Donald J. Trump International

USA

Palm Beach Airport Becomes Donald J. Trump International

South Florida's Palm Beach International Airport officially became President Donald J. Trump International Airport on Thursday, with workers beginning to replace signs across the terminal following the formal name change.

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New name unveiled as signage is replaced
Airport officials said the transition would take several weeks, meaning travelers will temporarily see a mix of the airport's previous branding alongside the new identity.
"Because an entire airport transformation doesn't happen overnight, you'll notice a combination of both our classic look and our new brand elements coexisting while traveling through the terminal over the next several weeks," the airport said in a Facebook post.
Trump family marks first day
The first aircraft to arrive under the airport's new name was "Trump Force One," a Boeing 757 owned by The Trump Organization, shortly after 5 a.m. Eric Trump was among those on board.
The Trump family frequently uses the airport when traveling to President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in nearby Palm Beach. Earlier this year, a road connecting the airport to the estate was renamed Donald J. Trump Boulevard.
Eric Trump welcomed the change in a post on X, saying his father was deserving of the recognition and adding that he would be proud to see the airport's future code, DJT, on his boarding passes.
Although the airport's new name took effect immediately, its three-letter code will remain PBI until Aug. 18, when it is scheduled to change to DJT.
Trump welcomes the move
President Trump also praised the renaming in a post on Truth Social, describing it as "a very big day" for Palm Beach. He thanked local supporters for approving the change and said the airport's ongoing renovation would be "spectacular," calling it one of the world's greatest airports.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation earlier this year authorising the renaming. Officials estimate the project will cost up to $5.5 million, covering new signs, branding and related updates.
Mixed public reaction
Some travellers expressed little concern over the change.
Keegan Collett, who was departing for Cincinnati on Thursday morning, said he did not believe Trump should have an airport named after him but added that the issue was not especially important.
"At the end of the day, it's just the name of an airport," Collett said. "There's bigger things. I feel like it's just more of a distraction. Why even worry about it?"
Elsewhere on Thursday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, and Representative Tim Burchett attended a ceremony in Dandridge, Tennessee, to rename the Interstate 40 Bridge as the Donald J. Trump Bridge.
Speaking before the event, Bessent said that "no one is more deserving" of the honour than Trump.
Trump won 82% of the vote in Jefferson County, where Dandridge is located, in the 2024 general election.


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11 July 2026

• 5 comments
• 611 views

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July 10Jul 10

Spain Wildfire Kills 12 as Search Continues for 23 Missing

Report

Spain Wildfire Kills 12 as Search Continues for 23 Missing

At least 12 people have died and 23 others remain missing after a fast-moving wildfire swept through southern Spain, according to Andalusian regional president Juanma Moreno.

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The blaze broke out in a wooded area near Los Gallardos in Almería province before spreading rapidly towards the nearby village of Bédar. Moreno said early indications suggested the fire may have been triggered by a collapsed power line, although he stressed the cause remained under investigation.
The bodies of the victims were discovered in and around Bédar. Andalusia's health and emergencies minister, Antonio Sanz, described the incident as the most devastating wildfire the region had ever experienced and warned that the death toll could rise.
Foreign nationals among the victims
Officials said many, or possibly all, of those who died may have been foreign nationals.
Four victims were found inside a vehicle, while eight others were discovered elsewhere after apparently attempting to escape the advancing flames. Sanz said the car had a right-hand drive steering wheel and the occupants were believed to be of British origin.
A spokesperson for the UK government said the Foreign Office was in contact with Spanish authorities. Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, also said consular officials were trying to establish contact with Belgian nationals who had not yet been reached, noting that many Belgians own second homes in Spain.
Sanz said those who died had apparently tried to flee using a route different from the one designated for evacuation.
Four people remain in hospital with serious burns, while another four were treated for minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Fire response and investigation
Around 1,000 residents were evacuated as emergency services closed roads and worked to contain the fire.
Spain's Military Emergency Unit deployed 220 soldiers and 70 vehicles to the affected area, while the Civil Guard assigned 160 officers to assist with evacuations, traffic management and the investigation into the fire's origin.
Moreno said maintenance crews would be held accountable if the investigation confirmed the fire had been caused by a fallen power line. However, electricity company Endesa disputed that suggestion, saying the damaged line was inactive and did not belong to the company.
Peter Chapman, who owns a holiday home near Los Gallardos with his wife, said the smoke spread so quickly they initially believed a storm was approaching.
He described the scene as surreal and said it was difficult to imagine holidaymakers losing their lives in such circumstances.
Extreme heat fuels wildfire risk
The fire comes during a prolonged heatwave that has pushed temperatures in parts of southern Europe to around 40C, contributing to major wildfires in Spain, Portugal and France this summer.
With at least 12 confirmed deaths, the blaze is already among the deadliest wildfires in modern Spanish history. Previous major incidents include the deaths of 11 firefighters near Riba de Saelices in 2005, 20 people on La Gomera in 1984 and 21 people near Lloret de Mar in 1979.
Spain has experienced increasingly severe wildfire seasons in recent years. The government announced its largest-ever summer firefighting operation this year after record-breaking heat in June.
According to the European Forest Fire Information System, a record 393,000 hectares burned in Spain last year, more than six times the country's average between 2006 and 2024.
Scientists say rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves across Europe, making wildfires more destructive. Europe is warming faster than any other continent, with researchers warning that severe fire seasons are likely to become more common.


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11 July 2026

• Fire

• 0 comments
• 662 views

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July 10Jul 10

UK Police Arrest Suspect in Ann Widdecombe Murder

UK

UK Police Arrest Suspect in Ann Widdecombe Murder

British police have arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of murdering former government minister and Reform UK politician Ann Widdecombe after she was found dead at her home in southwest England.
The 78-year-old was discovered with what police described as "serious injuries" after officers were called to her property shortly after midday on Thursday.

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Former minister found dead at her home
The suspect, a white British man, was arrested on Friday in Newton Abbot, around 9 miles (15km) from Widdecombe's home. He remains in police custody while the investigation continues.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police said there was no evidence to suggest the killing was linked to terrorism or politically motivated. Forensic examinations at Widdecombe's home are ongoing.
Tributes paid across politics
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Widdecombe's years of public service, paying tribute to her long political career.
Messages of condolence also came from former colleagues in both the Conservative Party and Reform UK following news of her death.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson described her on X as "a heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker," saying she could inspire Conservative audiences and was "a very hard act to follow."
Widdecombe became a prominent figure in British politics through her socially conservative views. She served as a junior minister in John Major's Conservative government between 1992 and 1997 before later becoming Reform UK's immigration and justice spokesperson under Nigel Farage.
Long political career
She was an outspoken opponent of abortion and opposed equalising the age of consent for homosexual and heterosexual relationships. During her time in government, she also defended the practice of shackling pregnant prisoners during childbirth to prevent escapes.
A Catholic convert who never married and described herself as a virgin, Widdecombe frequently spoke in support of traditional family values.
Following her departure from Parliament, she gained a new audience by appearing on the BBC dance competition Strictly Come Dancing in 2010. Although judges criticised her performances, viewers kept her in the competition for several weeks.
She later joined Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and served as a Member of the European Parliament from 2019 to 2020. Most recently, she was Reform UK's immigration spokesperson as the party rose in national opinion polls.
Attacks on British politicians
The investigation comes after two serving British MPs were murdered in the past decade.
Labour MP Jo Cox was shot and stabbed by a far-right extremist during the 2016 Brexit referendum campaign.
In 2021, Conservative MP David Amess was fatally stabbed by a man inspired by the Islamic State militant group.
Police have said there is currently no indication that Widdecombe's killing was connected to her political activities.


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11 July 2026

• Crime

• 87 comments
• 1,186 views

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July 10Jul 10

Ryanair Passenger Nearly Sucked Out of Window

Aviation

Ryanair Passenger Nearly Sucked Out of Window

A Ryanair flight travelling from Greece to Germany was forced to return to its departure airport after a passenger window shattered in mid-air, with local reports claiming one passenger was nearly pulled through the opening before being rescued by his wife.

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The incident happened on Ryanair flight FR1879, operated by Malta Air, which departed Thessaloniki for Memmingen near Munich on Thursday.
Passenger reportedly pulled towards broken window
According to Greek media reports, a 61-year-old Serbian man was partially pulled out of his seat after the aircraft suffered an apparent engine failure that sent debris into an acrylic passenger window, causing it to shatter.


Picture courtesy The Times

The reports said the man was left hanging headfirst outside the aircraft after the cabin rapidly depressurised. His wife reportedly prevented him from being pulled completely through the opening by holding on to his legs until the situation was brought under control.
Michalis Giannakos, president of the Panhellenic Federation of Public Hospital Employees (POEDIN), described the incident as "almost a tragedy", according to the Greek news website Newsit.
The passenger was taken to hospital after landing, reportedly suffering from shock and friction burns caused by exposure to the freezing airflow outside the aircraft.
Emergency return to Thessaloniki
Images and videos shared online showed oxygen masks hanging from the cabin ceiling, indicating the aircraft had experienced a loss of cabin pressure after the window was damaged.
Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed the Boeing 737 remained airborne for just over an hour. The aircraft climbed to around 16,000ft before turning back and landing safely at Thessaloniki Airport.
The circumstances that caused the window to fail have not been officially confirmed.
Ryanair confirms window came loose
In a statement, Ryanair confirmed the aircraft returned shortly after take-off because of a problem with a passenger window.
"A Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen on Friday morning returned to Thessaloniki shortly after takeoff when a passenger window dislodged inflight," a company spokesperson said.
The airline did not comment on reports that a passenger was nearly sucked through the damaged window or provide details on the number of people injured.
It remains unclear whether investigators have confirmed the sequence of events described in local media. The aircraft landed safely, and emergency services met the flight after its return to Thessaloniki.


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10 July 2026

• Accident

• 21 comments
• 1,327 views

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July 10Jul 10

Poll Finds Majority of Voters See Farage as ‘Very Sleazy’

UK-Politics

Poll Finds Majority of Voters See Farage as ‘Very Sleazy’

More than half of British voters now regard Nigel Farage as "very sleazy", according to new YouGov polling, with the Reform UK leader receiving the most negative rating among the country's main party leaders.

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Reform's Image Worsens, YouGov Survey Suggests
The survey found that 56% of respondents described Farage as "very sleazy", while a further 17% said he was "fairly sleazy". That means nearly three-quarters of those questioned held a negative view of the Reform UK leader on the measure. Even among Reform UK supporters, 40% said they considered Farage to be sleazy.
The findings were released as a by-election in Clacton, Farage's constituency, was called for 13 August.
Negative Perceptions of Reform Increase
Writing about the results, YouGov's Dylan Difford said perceptions of Reform UK had become increasingly negative over the past two years.
The poll suggests that 68% of Britons now regard Reform UK as "very sleazy", up from 50% in October 2024, when the Labour government's "freebie-gate" controversy dominated political headlines.


Photograph: Vuk Valcic/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock

The shift was not limited to Reform UK. The proportion of voters describing the Green Party as sleazy has risen sharply over the past 21 months, roughly doubling from 18% to 35%. The Liberal Democrats also recorded an increase, with negative perceptions rising by seven percentage points.
By contrast, views of the current Labour government, the previous Conservative administration and British governments in general have remained broadly stable over the same period.
Poll Reflects Public Perception
The survey measures public opinion rather than making judgments about political conduct. People describing a politician or party as "sleazy" may be expressing concerns about integrity or ethics, but the term can also reflect general political dislike rather than allegations of wrongdoing.
While 73% of respondents described Farage as either very or fairly sleazy, an even larger proportion — 77% — said the same about British governments in general. Of those, 26% said governments were "very sleazy" and 51% said they were "fairly sleazy".
The figures suggest that public distrust extends beyond individual politicians or parties, although perceptions do not necessarily reflect objective assessments of political standards or corruption.

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10 July 2026

• 9 comments
• 910 views

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July 10Jul 10

EU Car Rules Could Be Biggest Brexit Blow Yet

EU

EU Car Rules Could Be Biggest Brexit Blow Yet

The European car industry has urged the European Union to exempt the UK from planned "made in Europe" rules, warning that excluding British manufacturers would disrupt deeply integrated supply chains and weaken the bloc's competitiveness.

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The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (Acea) called on the European Commission to grant the UK, Turkey and Morocco "justified, targeted exemptions" from the proposed rules. Under the plans, only vehicles and components produced within the EU would qualify for subsidies and public procurement contracts.
European carmakers seek UK exemption
The measures form part of the EU's proposed Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA), which is designed to strengthen European industry against growing competition from heavily subsidised Chinese manufacturers.
Although aimed at reducing dependence on Chinese imports, the proposals could become one of the most significant economic consequences of Brexit for Britain's automotive sector because they currently apply only to EU member states.
Brexit impact and industry concerns
Acea said the European automotive industry continues to operate an integrated supply chain with the UK despite Brexit. It argued that vehicles, batteries and components produced in Britain should be treated the same as those made within the EU and have equal access to policy support.
The group's intervention comes as Britain seeks changes to the proposals during talks with Brussels. Europe Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds met EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on Wednesday, with the Industrial Accelerator Act among the issues under discussion.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), welcomed Acea's position, saying it reflected the close links between the UK and European automotive industries. He said he hoped EU regulators would take those shared interests into account when finalising the legislation.
Speaking at a London conference on Tuesday, Hawes warned that the proposals could effectively exclude UK-built vehicles from much of the European market. He argued that such an outcome would harm both sides because many UK factories are owned by European manufacturers and the UK and EU remain each other's largest export markets for cars and automotive parts.
Integrated manufacturing network
Acea's membership includes BMW, Volkswagen and Stellantis, which own the Mini, Bentley and Vauxhall manufacturing operations in the UK. Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, Toyota and Nissan are also members with significant production facilities in Britain.
According to reports, Nissan has privately warned that it could be forced to close its Sunderland factory if the rules are implemented without changes. More than half of UK vehicle exports are destined for EU markets.
Several Acea members also operate manufacturing plants in Turkey and Morocco, prompting the organisation to argue that excluding those facilities would leave existing European investments stranded and reduce the industry's competitiveness.
China competition shapes policy
The Industrial Accelerator Act is intended to help protect European manufacturing from an influx of lower-cost Chinese vehicles and components.
Earlier this week, the EU and China agreed to hold three months of diplomatic talks aimed at preventing a wider trade dispute.
Last month, several European trade groups warned that domestic industries risked being undermined by what they described as "China shock 2.0". Concerns have intensified after Volkswagen proposed cutting up to 100,000 jobs across Europe. The EU's trade deficit with China has reached around €1 billion a day and is forecast to approach €400 billion in China's favour by the end of the year.
While Acea is strongly influenced by German manufacturers, the Industrial Accelerator Act is largely driven by France, meaning any significant amendments would require the support of French President Emmanuel Macron. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has also called for stronger action to address China's growing industrial advantage, citing the country's currency policy as a contributor to its trade surplus.

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10 July 2026

• UK

• 11 comments
• 1,466 views

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July 10Jul 10

Trump Says Iran Is Denuclearized, Raising New Questions

Iranian Conflict

Trump Says Iran Is Denuclearized, Raising New Questions

President Donald Trump is now arguing that Iran has effectively been stripped of its nuclear capability, a position that contrasts with the rationale his administration gave for launching the war earlier this year.

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When the conflict began in February, Trump said Iran posed an imminent nuclear threat. However, critics noted that he had spent months beforehand insisting that U.S. and Israeli strikes in June 2025 had already "obliterated" Iran's nuclear programme.
Trump shifts message on Iran's nuclear threat
Just weeks before the war started, he said those attacks had left Iran without even a "potential capability" to build nuclear weapons.
Now, as the conflict enters its fifth month, Trump is once again describing Iran's nuclear programme as effectively eliminated.
Trump declares war a success
Speaking at a NATO summit in Turkey on Wednesday, Trump rejected suggestions that the war had reached a strategic dead end.
"I was there for one reason: that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I call it, we denuclearize Iran," he said. "And that's happened; they will never have a nuclear weapon."
Trump argued that Iran's nuclear materials are now buried so deeply beneath mountains that they are effectively inaccessible. He also said the United States can monitor the sites and ensure they remain unusable.
"There's no way they have a nuclear weapon," he said.
At another event, Trump was asked how the United States intended to secure Iran's nuclear materials. He suggested that their location effectively placed them under U.S. control.
"We've already got the nuclear material, because it's so far underground," Trump said. "Nobody's going to be able to get it except us."
"They can't get it," he added, calling the outcome "a tremendous success."
Questions over the war's objectives
Trump's latest comments have fuelled questions about the administration's original justification for the conflict.
Throughout the war, administration officials repeatedly described securing or eliminating Iran's nuclear materials as a key objective. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent referred to obtaining the materials as a "red line" only weeks ago.
Trump has increasingly suggested that physically recovering those materials may no longer be necessary because Iran cannot access them and the sites can be monitored remotely.
His latest remarks also add to what critics describe as shifting explanations for the war. Over recent months, the administration has cited multiple objectives, including preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and, at times, promoting regime change. Trump has also claimed that the killing of senior Iranian leaders amounted to achieving regime change, despite Iran's government remaining in power.
Critics point to inconsistencies
The president's latest position has prompted further questions about why the war continued if Iran's nuclear capability had already been neutralised.
The largest attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities occurred in June 2025, when Trump first declared the programme had been "obliterated." Major combat operations in the current conflict ended with a ceasefire announced on April 7.
If Iran's nuclear materials were already inaccessible, critics ask why the administration continued pursuing a nuclear agreement and maintained that securing those materials remained essential.
Some analysts argue Trump's latest comments suggest he is preparing to reduce U.S. involvement while portraying the campaign as a success, despite key objectives remaining unmet and negotiations with Tehran showing little sign of progress.
The conflict has imposed significant costs, including the deaths of 13 U.S. service members, disruption to the global economy and heightened concern over Iran's demonstrated ability to affect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Critics argue those consequences may ultimately prove among the war's most enduring outcomes.

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10 July 2026

• 19 comments
• 1,062 views

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July 10Jul 10

Burnham Nears Unopposed Labour Leadership Bid

UK-Politics

Burnham Nears Unopposed Labour Leadership Bid

Andy Burnham is on course to become Labour leader and the UK's next prime minister after securing the backing of 322 Labour MPs in the first round of leadership nominations.

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Burnham, the only declared candidate since nominations opened on Thursday, is just one nomination short of the 323 needed to make it mathematically impossible for another contender to enter the race. Several MPs who were unable to vote on the opening day have indicated they will support him when they return to Parliament.
MP Support Puts Leadership Within Reach
If no rival emerges, as widely expected, Burnham is set to be confirmed as Labour leader next week before taking office as prime minister on 20 July.
The development marks a rapid political ascent for the former Greater Manchester mayor, who only recently returned to Westminster after winning the Makerfield by-election.
Burnham Outlines Vision for Labour
Responding to the wave of support, Burnham said he was "deeply grateful" to Labour MPs who had nominated him, adding that the backing reflected support from across the party.
He said the nominations showed a "shared belief that Britain needs a new approach to politics" and described his agenda as a "circuit breaker" that would shift power away from Westminster, reshape the economy to benefit ordinary people and promote growth across the country.
Later on Thursday, Burnham briefly turned to politics while presenting the Legend Award to Manchester indie band James at the Silver Clef music awards at London's Royal Albert Hall.
Although he said he would avoid discussing politics during the event, he joked about Reform UK leader Nigel Farage's decision to trigger a by-election in Clacton, where Count Binface is standing after Labour and the other major parties chose not to contest the seat.
"Count Binface, you are carrying the hopes of the nation. Don't let us down," Burnham said.
Leadership Race Appears All but Decided
Burnham's return to Parliament, combined with Labour's heavy losses in May's local elections, intensified pressure on Sir Keir Starmer to step aside. Sir Keir resigned as Labour leader on the day Burnham was sworn in as an MP, saying he had concluded he was no longer the best person to lead Labour into the next general election.
Candidates have until Wednesday to secure nominations from at least 81 Labour MPs to qualify for the leadership contest. Once Burnham reaches 323 MP nominations, no other candidate will be able to reach that threshold.
He must also receive nominations from at least three of Labour's 31 affiliated trade unions or socialist societies, a requirement expected to be completed without difficulty.
If he remains unopposed, Burnham will become Labour leader and prime minister without a vote among party members or affiliated trade union supporters.
Attention Turns to Policy Agenda
Support for Burnham gathered momentum after former defence minister Al Carns ruled out entering the contest on Wednesday, effectively clearing the path for an uncontested leadership race.
Even so, some Labour figures have called on Burnham to provide more detail about the policies he would pursue in government, particularly as he spent the past eight years outside Westminster after leaving Parliament in 2017.
His limited contact with many newer Labour MPs has increased interest in an official parliamentary hustings scheduled for Monday, where he is expected to answer questions about his plans.
Meanwhile, Burnham has begun "access talks" with senior civil servants, led by Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo, to discuss policy proposals ahead of a potential transition into government.
Speaking as nominations opened, Sir Keir endorsed his longtime colleague, saying he had worked closely with Burnham after first entering Parliament and believed he would make "a good prime minister."

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10 July 2026

• 3 comments
• 637 views

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July 10Jul 10

Rogan Says Trump ‘Might’ve F---ed It Up’ With Iran War

Report

Rogan Says Trump ‘Might’ve F---ed It Up’ With Iran War

Podcaster Joe Rogan has questioned President Donald Trump's decision to resume military strikes on Iran, saying the president "might’ve f---ed it up" by becoming involved in the conflict.

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Speaking on Wednesday's episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan argued that many conservatives never wanted a war with Iran and said the military action appeared to contradict one of Trump's key campaign promises.
He continued: "They’re the only people that seem to be thinking it’s a good idea in this country. Most people are horrified by the idea because Trump was elected. One of the pillars that he stood for apparently was that he doesn’t want any more wars."
Conservative Criticism Intensifies
Rogan's remarks echo criticism from several prominent conservative commentators, including Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly and Matt Walsh.
The group has argued that Trump entered the conflict to advance Israeli interests without fully considering the consequences for Americans, who have faced fluctuating fuel and energy prices since the fighting began.
Growing Opposition on the Right
British politician Rupert Lowe, who appeared as Rogan's guest on the podcast, said Iran remained a regional threat but questioned whether military action served U.S. interests.
"There’s only a reason to go to war if it’s going to benefit you," Lowe said. Although he described Iran as "a sort of malevolent state" that spreads harmful ideology, he said it was difficult to identify a clear benefit for the United States.
Lowe also pointed to Iran's backing of Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas as evidence that Tehran continues to pose a security challenge.
Fighting Continues
The comments came as efforts to secure a diplomatic breakthrough appeared to falter.
While Trump's team had been working to negotiate an agreement, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon threatened hopes for a broader peace deal. Israel has maintained control of a security zone along its border with Lebanon, saying the buffer is needed to prevent Hezbollah operations.
Iran has said regional peace was secured under the ceasefire agreement and urged Trump to adhere to the terms outlined in the memorandum of understanding.
However, after Iran attacked three ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday and clashes between U.S. and Iranian forces continued on Wednesday, Trump declared that the ceasefire agreement was "over."
Next Moves Awaited
International leaders are now watching closely for Washington's next military decisions as they assess whether the conflict with Iran will escalate further or move back toward diplomacy following the latest exchanges of strikes.

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10 July 2026

• 35 comments
• 1,622 views

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July 9Jul 9

Farage Faces Count Binface as Rivals Boycott Vote

UK-Politics

Farage Faces Count Binface as Rivals Boycott Vote

Nigel Farage's decision to resign as the member of parliament for Clacton and force a by-election has drawn sharp criticism, with Britain's main political parties refusing to contest the vote and leaving him facing a satirical challenger instead.

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Farage, leader of Reform UK, stepped down on Tuesday while facing allegations that he failed to declare millions of pounds' worth of gifts from wealthy donors. He has denied any wrongdoing and is under investigation by Parliament's standards watchdog.
Announcing his resignation, Farage said he wanted voters in Clacton, in southeast England, to decide his political future rather than what he described as an "establishment" campaign against him.
"I've decided the people of Clacton should be the judges of my actions," he said, adding that he intended to continue the "political revolution" led by Reform UK.
Major Parties Boycott Contest
Farage's strategy quickly met resistance from Britain's three main political parties. Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats all announced they would boycott the by-election, arguing that the contest was an unnecessary political stunt.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the move as a "desperate stunt," while a spokesperson for Andy Burnham, widely viewed as a potential future prime minister, called it a "gimmick" intended to divert attention from questions surrounding Farage's financial backers.
Rachel Reeves, the finance minister who formally accepted Farage's resignation from Parliament, also criticized the move. Writing on X, she said the people of Clacton deserved better and remarked that if Farage wanted to spend the summer "arguing with a bin," she would not stop him.
Count Binface Emerges as Main Challenger
With the major parties opting out, the most recognizable candidate to enter the race is Count Binface, a satirical character created by comedian and writer Jon Harvey.
Known for wearing a metallic bin on his head, Count Binface has regularly contested British elections as part of the country's long tradition of novelty candidates challenging high-profile politicians. His campaign often combines political satire with deliberately humorous policy proposals.
Following Farage's resignation, Count Binface declared "Game on, Nige" in a post on X.
The comedian later told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that he wondered whether politicians were avoiding the contest because they feared him rather than Farage. Asked why voters should support him, he replied simply: "I'm not Nigel Farage."
Supporters Defend Farage's Decision
Farage's allies argued that the boycott showed Britain's established parties were unwilling to challenge the Reform UK leader directly.
Reform UK's home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, accused the other parties of avoiding the contest despite years of attacking Farage politically.
"The establishment is on the ropes," Yusuf wrote on X.
Although Count Binface is not expected to win the seat, some political commentators have suggested he could attract a notable protest vote as dissatisfaction with the by-election and the surrounding controversy continues to dominate attention.


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10 July 2026

• 7 comments
• 661 views

webfact

July 9Jul 9

Putin Set to Intensify Ukraine War Despite Peace Efforts

Ukraine Conflict

Putin Set to Intensify Ukraine War Despite Peace Efforts

Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to pursue peace talks with Ukraine in the near future and is instead expected to intensify the war, according to three sources close to the Kremlin who spoke to Reuters.

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The sources said recent Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, ports and fuel infrastructure have reinforced Putin's determination to continue the conflict rather than negotiate. Two of the sources, who requested anonymity, said an escalation in military operations is likely in the coming months. One person who regularly meets with the Russian leader described the chances of escalation as "high."
Kremlin Sources See Little Prospect of Peace
The assessment contrasts with comments made this week by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said Putin wanted the war to end and suggested a resolution was "closer than people realize." Trump held separate phone calls with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week before meeting Zelenskyy during the NATO summit, where the two leaders discussed possible steps toward peace. The White House did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.
Putin Focused on Donbas Objectives
According to one source familiar with Putin's thinking, the Russian president remains committed to capturing the remainder of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region. The source said Putin recently rejected advice from some advisers who proposed accepting a ceasefire along the current front lines, insisting instead on achieving his military objectives.
Another source said Putin believes Russian forces will eventually secure the remaining Ukrainian-held areas of Donbas.
The Kremlin maintained its public position that Russia remains open to a peaceful settlement while continuing military operations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had sufficient capability to continue what it calls its "special military operation."
A senior Ukrainian official, responding on behalf of Zelenskyy's office, said Ukrainian intelligence indicates Russia is preparing for additional military action rather than negotiations, including possible new operations inside Ukraine or even against another European country.
Growing Concerns Over Wider Escalation
Some Western military analysts believe Russia would need a politically unpopular mobilisation of additional fighting-age men to fully capture Donbas, a step Putin has so far avoided.
Russian military commentators have increasingly discussed the possibility of expanding the conflict, including strikes against European targets such as NATO bases in the Baltic states. Such attacks could risk direct confrontation with the U.S.-led alliance.
Jack Watling of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) said Russia might instead seek limited attacks designed to create divisions within NATO over how to respond. He added that rising tensions with the alliance could also provide domestic justification for wider military conscription.
War Continues to Take Heavy Toll
Repeated Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure have caused fuel shortages, increasing the war's impact on the Russian public. Although Putin's approval rating remains high, polling has shown it recently reached its lowest level since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.
The source who regularly meets Putin said Ukraine's recent battlefield successes have made the Russian leader more determined to respond forcefully. Russia has launched major drone and missile attacks on Ukraine in recent days, including strikes on Kyiv that killed dozens of civilians. Moscow says it targeted military facilities.
Speaking to senior military officers last week, Putin said Ukrainian attacks on Russian infrastructure justified creating a broader "security zone" by capturing additional territory along the border beyond Donbas.
Former Russian defence ministry official Andrei Ilnitsky recently wrote that a future escalation could include attacks on major industrial sites in Ukraine and, later, strikes against NATO bases and European facilities supporting Ukraine's defence industry. Asked about those remarks, Kremlin spokesman Peskov said Russia must strengthen its security in response to what he described as Europe's militarisation.
Grinding Offensive in Eastern Ukraine
Russia's advance across the roughly 1,200-kilometre front line has slowed as Ukrainian drone warfare has reduced Moscow's numerical advantage. Fighting has intensified around Kostiantynivka, a key defensive city in Ukraine's Donetsk region.
On July 3, Putin claimed Russian forces had captured Kostiantynivka, a statement Ukraine denied. During a subsequent phone call with Trump, Putin reportedly expressed confidence that Russia would eventually seize the remaining Ukrainian-held part of the Donetsk region.
According to the source who regularly meets Putin, the Russian president views control of Donbas as a matter of principle and believes he needs a significant military victory.

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10 July 2026

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July 9Jul 9

Trump Says 'Islamic Republic of Japan' Fired Missiles

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Trump Says 'Islamic Republic of Japan' Fired Missiles

President Donald Trump mistakenly referred to the "Islamic Republic of Japan" while describing an alleged missile attack on a U.S. aircraft carrier during remarks to reporters alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on July 8 at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.

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Speaking about the USS Abraham Lincoln, Trump said: "We have an aircraft carrier which is one of the most beautiful in the world, it's one of the biggest, the (USS) Abraham Lincoln. And a few months ago, we had, I told this story yesterday, we had 111 missiles shot by the Islamic Republic of Japan."
He went on to claim the missiles were fired at the aircraft carrier over the course of an hour and that every one of them was intercepted.
USS Abraham Lincoln and Iran
The USS Abraham Lincoln has been involved in heightened tensions with Iran in recent months.
In February, the U.S. military said it shot down a drone that approached the aircraft carrier aggressively while it was operating in the Arabian Sea, about 500 miles off Iran's southern coast.
The following month, Iran claimed it had struck the USS Abraham Lincoln with a ballistic missile. U.S. Central Command rejected the claim, stating that the carrier was not hit and that the missiles "didn't even come close." The military said the vessel continued launching aircraft in support of operations aimed at countering threats from Iran.
Longstanding US-Japan Alliance
Trump's reference appeared to confuse Iran with Japan.
The United States and Japan have maintained a close military alliance for nearly 75 years. The two countries signed a security treaty in 1952, several years after the end of World War II, and continue to cooperate under a mutual defense agreement.
Around 60,000 U.S. military personnel are currently stationed in Japan as part of the alliance.


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9 July 2026

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July 9Jul 9

Bonnie Tyler, 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' Singer, Dies at 75

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Bonnie Tyler, 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' Singer, Dies at 75

Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, whose powerful vocals helped make Total Eclipse of the Heart one of the defining hits of the 1980s, has died at the age of 75.

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A statement published on her official website said Tyler died unexpectedly on Wednesday night in a hospital in Portugal after being treated for an illness.
Death Confirmed by Family
Born Gaynor Hopkins in south Wales, Tyler rose to international fame with a string of chart successes during the 1970s and 1980s. Her signature hit, Total Eclipse of the Heart, became a worldwide bestseller and surpassed one billion streams on Spotify earlier this year.
Career Defined by Global Hits
Despite its enduring popularity, Tyler previously said she earned very little from the song because it was written by someone else.
Her stage name was chosen after she browsed a newspaper, selecting first and last names that appealed to her before launching her recording career.
Health Struggles
Tyler had been seriously ill in recent months. In May, she underwent emergency intestinal surgery in Portugal and was placed in an induced coma. Her spokesperson said last month that she had emerged from the coma but remained in intensive care and was still critically unwell.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes have begun pouring in following news of her death. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Tyler as one of Britain's greatest recording artists.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the prime minister was saddened by the loss of "an iconic figure" whose music, including Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding Out for a Hero, continues to resonate with audiences, fill dance floors and remain karaoke favourites.
"The prime minister's thoughts are very much with her friends and family," the spokesperson added.


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9 July 2026

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July 9Jul 9

UK Judges Hear Appeal Over Trinidad Anti-Gay Law

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UK Judges Hear Appeal Over Trinidad Anti-Gay Law

The UK's highest appeal judges have begun hearing a case that could determine whether Trinidad and Tobago's colonial-era law criminalising consensual same-sex intimacy should remain in force.

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The appeal centres on whether Trinidad and Tobago's Court of Appeal had the legal authority to overturn a 2018 High Court ruling that declared the country's anti-gay law unconstitutional.
The so-called "buggery law", first introduced in 1925 and incorporated into Trinidad and Tobago's 1986 Sexual Offences Act, criminalises anal sex between consenting men and carries a prison sentence of up to five years.
Challenge to Colonial-Era Law
In 2017, LGBTQ+ rights activist Jason Jones challenged the legislation, arguing that it violated his constitutional rights to privacy and equality. A High Court agreed in 2018, striking down the law as unconstitutional.
However, the country's Court of Appeal reversed that decision in 2025 after intervention by the attorney general, restoring the legislation. Jones has now appealed to the London-based Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC), which serves as the final court of appeal for several Commonwealth countries, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies.
A ruling is expected within three to six months.
Wider Constitutional Questions
The case is being closely monitored across the Caribbean because its outcome could extend beyond LGBTQ+ rights.
Trinidad and Tobago's government is contesting Jones's appeal, arguing that the case could affect the interpretation of constitutional "savings clauses". These provisions preserved many laws inherited from British colonial rule after countries gained independence.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said the Privy Council's decision could provide guidance on whether other colonial-era laws protected by savings clauses should remain in force.
Darrell Allahar, a minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and one of the government's lawyers, said the proceedings were important because they concerned the broader constitutional role of savings clauses, which were designed to preserve existing laws following independence rather than allow widespread legal changes based on new constitutional rights.
Activist Criticises Government
Jones, 61, said the matter should never have reached the Privy Council, arguing that the government or parliament could have repealed the legislation years ago.
He accused the state of spending millions of dollars in public funds defending laws that, he said, criminalise and stigmatise LGBTQ+ people. Jones expressed confidence that the Privy Council would rule in his favour, arguing that the legislation is incompatible with modern human rights protections.
Regional Significance
Several Caribbean countries have recently repealed or struck down similar colonial-era laws. The Bahamas decriminalised homosexuality in 1991, while courts have more recently invalidated comparable legislation in Barbados, Dominica, St Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda. The UK also repealed such laws in several British Overseas Territories in 2001.
However, consensual same-sex intimacy remains criminalised in Guyana, Grenada, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Former Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar said the remaining countries in the Americas that still criminalise homosexuality all share a history as former British colonies. Writing in a recent paper for Harvard University, he argued that this reflected the continued existence of colonial-era laws that have already been repealed in the United Kingdom, where rights including privacy and personal autonomy are protected under domestic law.



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9 July 2026

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July 9Jul 9