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Panetta: US locked into ‘unwinnable war’ with Iran
Former US defence secretary Leon Panetta warned that the United States is locked into an “unwinnable war” with Iran, arguing that military action has no clear objective, strategy or end point. His comments matter because they highlight concerns that the conflict could become prolonged despite claims of progress, while failing to achieve a lasting political…
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A World Cup with no participants – it could be Gianni Infantino’s boldest move yet | Marina Hyde
Marina Hyde argues that Gianni Infantino’s reported plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors has provoked unusually broad opposition and could damage Fifa’s standing. Uefa’s 55 member nations have reportedly voted unanimously to boycott Fifa competitions, including World Cups, if the proposal proceeds, raising the prospect of major European teams withdrawing…
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UK petrol price hits Iran war high, adding to pressure on households
Average UK petrol prices have reached 160p a litre, their highest level since November 2022, increasing costs for households as the summer holiday travel period begins. The rise follows renewed conflict involving Iran and the US, which has pushed up oil prices and reversed an earlier fall in pump prices after a Middle East ceasefire.…
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Trump announced a deal for Hamas to disarm. And, the U.S. economy slowed a bit
President Trump said an agreement had been reached for Hamas to disarm and for Israeli forces to withdraw from Gaza in stages, a potentially important step in a ceasefire process that has stalled for months. However, major questions remain over implementation, verification and whether all parties, including Israel, have formally accepted the arrangement. Separately, US…
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EA’s $55bn takeover expected to close on 4 August
Electronic Arts expects its $55 billion sale to Saudi Arabia, Silver Lake and Affinity Partners to complete on 4 August, taking the games publisher private. The company says it has received all necessary regulatory approvals, though customary closing conditions still need to be met; the deal has prompted concern over transparency, jobs and creative independence.…
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Boy George pulls out of Jesus Christ Superstar after releasing pro-Israel song
Boy George has withdrawn from a forthcoming London Palladium production of Jesus Christ Superstar after releasing a song supporting Israel’s military action in Palestine, which prompted widespread criticism and planned protests. His manager said the decision was intended to allow the production to remain the focus while respecting those involved. The song, We Will Dance…
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New solar panels in Great Britain at 15-year high as fossil fuel costs soar
Great Britain installed 142,536 solar systems in the first half of 2026, its strongest six-month period since 2011, as high fossil-fuel prices prompted more households to seek cheaper, self-generated electricity. The increase matters because it could surpass last year’s record for new solar additions and signals growing consumer interest in reducing exposure to volatile energy…
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Democrats show divisions on Israel amid competitive midterm elections
Democrats are divided over Israel as competitive midterm races approach, with candidates weighing how strongly to support the Israeli government, call for a ceasefire, or criticise US policy. The disagreement matters because it tests the party’s ability to hold together voters with sharply different views of the war and could affect turnout, fundraising and primary…
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Morning news brief
NPR’s morning brief covers President Trump’s planned meetings with the leaders of Ukraine and Israel, the impending expiry of work permits for thousands of people with Temporary Protected Status, and public concern about political corruption. – Trump is due to meet the Ukrainian and Israeli leaders, placing two major foreign-policy issues on the White House…
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Boy George quits West End musical amid backlash to pro-Israel song
Boy George has withdrawn from the forthcoming West End production of Jesus Christ Superstar after criticism of his new pro-Israel song, “We Will Dance Again”. The decision removes him from a scheduled appearance as King Herod at the London Palladium and reflects the wider backlash the song has prompted online. The song refers to the…