German airline Lufthansa has announced the cancellation of 20,000 short-haul flights across Europe this summer. The airline attributes these cuts to a doubling of jet fuel prices since the US-Israel coalition initiated strikes on Iran in February 2024, rendering many routes unprofitable. Other carriers, including KLM-France and Delta, have also reduced services or increased fares.
Three Palestine Action activists have been acquitted of violent disorder charges related to an incident at an Elbit Systems facility near Bristol. The Crown Prosecution Service offered no evidence for the charge.
Former US President Donald Trump has strongly criticised Pope Leo, accusing the pontiff of being "WEAK on Crime and terrible for Foreign Policy." Trump's remarks targeted the Pope's opposition to the US-Israel war in Iran and his stance on US immigration policy, coming as Pope Leo began a major trip to Africa.
The UK will not participate in the US military blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, despite calls for international involvement from the US. British forces will continue to operate minesweepers and anti-drone capabilities in the region, focusing on maintaining freedom of navigation. This decision comes amidst escalating tensions following US-Israeli strikes on Iran and the failure of peace talks, with the UK emphasising de-escalation and a multilateral approach to ensure the strait remains open for global trade.
