Rising heating oil prices linked to Middle East conflict are hitting rural households in Cumbria and Northumberland. Many off-grid residents face sharply higher costs, with some switching off heating amid concerns over affordability and market volatility.

Severe airspace restrictions across the Middle East have left thousands of British nationals scrambling to return home. The government has arranged charter flights while urging most travellers to use commercial routes where possible.

The United States and Israel say they are escalating military operations against Iran, targeting missile capabilities and key infrastructure. Iran has responded with missile attacks, as global oil prices rise amid the conflict.

Israel has bombarded Beirut and Tehran as the United States signalled a dramatic increase in strikes on Iran. The United Kingdom is evacuating citizens from the region, with more flights under consideration.

A Scottish man has been stranded in Dubai for 10 days after flight cancellations linked to regional conflict. He says airline policies have left repatriation flights departing with empty seats while passengers remain stuck in a city under attack.

A former British Broadcasting Corporation journalist told a tribunal he 'deeply regrets' social media posts that led to his dismissal. He claims his behaviour was linked to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and a mental health crisis, while the broadcaster says dismissal was justified.

The United States and Israel have intensified strikes on Iran, prompting further retaliation and raising fears of a wider regional conflict. The podcast also covers developments in Ukraine, Nepal’s post protest election, church tensions, and new findings on weight loss treatments.

Energy firms in the United Kingdom are pulling fixed-price deals after oil and gas prices surged بسبب conflict in the Middle East. Fewer tariffs are available and prices have risen, raising concerns about future household energy bills.

The United States Senate has voted down a bipartisan effort to limit President Donald Trump's war powers as strikes on Iran continue. Fighting has intensified in Tehran and Beirut, while other global stories highlight concerns over artificial intelligence, religion, health, and science.

Mark Carney told Australia’s parliament that the global order is breaking down and urged closer cooperation between middle powers. Canada and Australia pledged deeper ties on defence, critical minerals and emerging technologies while calling for de escalation in the Middle East.

Major technology firms have pledged to fund new power infrastructure for artificial intelligence data centres amid political pressure over rising electricity bills. Analysts question whether the promise can be enforced as energy costs continue to climb.

Vienna will host the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in May, featuring 35 देशों and the grand final on 16 May. Several देशों are boycotting over Israel's participation, prompting changes to voting rules.

A United States submarine has sunk an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, with dozens confirmed dead and many missing. The incident comes as Iran, Israel and the United States exchange strikes across the region.

The Senate will vote on a bipartisan resolution seeking to limit President Trump's authority to continue military action against Iran without congressional approval. The measure faces uncertain prospects amid ongoing hostilities and expected opposition.

A chartered flight from Oman will evacuate vulnerable British nationals as regional airspace closures disrupt travel. Officials say more routes are being arranged for those stranded across Gulf countries.

Asian markets declined sharply, with South Korea halting trading after its main index plunged more than 8 percent. The country’s reliance on Middle Eastern oil has heightened concerns over geopolitical disruptions.

United States and Israeli strikes on Iran entered a fourth day, targeting military and political sites as casualties mount. Iran has retaliated with regional missile and drone attacks and threatened shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump told Congress it is too early to assess the full scope of strikes against Iran. Lawmakers from both parties are questioning whether the action required prior congressional approval.

A woman accused of supporting Hamas told a court she was unaware of the full details of the 7 October attacks when she called the day a 'victory'. She denies supporting the group and says she was referring only to what she believed was a break-out from Gaza.

France, Germany and the United Kingdom issued a joint warning to Iran but have taken differing national steps in response to rising tensions. The varied actions highlight the difficulty of forming a unified European approach.

Iran has widened its attacks in the Gulf, striking the United States embassy in Saudi Arabia and threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Oil transport costs have surged as Washington signals further action while insisting the war will not be prolonged.

Sir Keir Starmer said recent American and Israeli actions were not right, but defended allowing use of British airbases to protect allies. He faces political criticism from both supporters and opponents, amid public opposition to the move.

Keir Starmer has openly disagreed with President Donald Trump over air strikes on Iran, saying the United Kingdom does not support regime change by force. He defended allowing American use of British airbases while stressing the importance of international law.

Casualties are mounting as retaliatory strikes continue between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Dozens have been reported killed across the region, including civilians and military personnel.

Escalating conflict in the Middle East has raised doubts about Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup. Football authorities are monitoring the situation, while contingency plans could see another Asian team take Iran's place if needed.

Iran's state media says Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been killed following strikes by Israel and the United States. The announcement follows statements from both United States and Israeli leaders confirming the attack on his Tehran compound.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed in strikes by the United States and Israel, prompting mourning at home and retaliation across the Gulf region. The event raises urgent questions about Iran's leadership and the risk of wider regional escalation.

United States President Donald Trump says Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in air strikes on Iran, though Tehran has not confirmed it. His reported death could usher in a period of deep uncertainty after more than 30 years of iron-fisted rule.

President Donald Trump says Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is dead after United States and Israeli strikes, but Iranian state media denies the claim. Political and diplomatic reactions are unfolding worldwide.

Labour's by-election loss in Greater Manchester is shaping strategy ahead of Scotland's Holyrood vote. Smaller parties are eyeing opportunities as tactical voting and a fragmented field could prove decisive in May.

Bill Clinton told lawmakers he was unaware of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and said he did nothing wrong. The programme also covers tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Ramadan in Gaza, and sanctions against a judge from the International Criminal Court.

A playful portrait of southern elephant seal pups in the Falkland Islands has won the top prize in the Underwater Photographer of the Year 2026 contest. The competition drew more than 7,900 entries celebrating marine life and conservation from around the world.

An Iranian woman has been jailed in France for promoting terrorism over social media posts about the 7 October attack on Israel. She had been considered a potential candidate in a prisoner exchange involving two French nationals held in Iran.

Anthony Albanese apologised after calling sexual abuse survivor Grace Tame 'difficult' during a public event. Tame and several politicians criticised the remark, while the prime minister said he was referring to the hardships she has faced.

Asian businesses face renewed uncertainty after the United States Supreme Court struck down a key pillar of President Donald Trump's tariff policy, only for new levies to be introduced. Companies are delaying investments, raising prices and diversifying into new markets as shifting trade rules disrupt supply chains.

Asian businesses face renewed uncertainty after the Supreme Court struck down key tariffs, prompting swift new import taxes from President Donald Trump. Companies are delaying investments, reshaping supply chains and seeking new markets as trade policy continues to shift.

The Republic of Ireland will host Israel at the Aviva Stadium on 4 October after police confirmed the match can be held safely. The football governing body said the decision followed legal advice and stakeholder consultation.

The United States embassy will begin providing passport services in Israeli settlements in the West Bank for the first time. The move has drawn condemnation from Palestinian officials and international criticism amid rising tensions and settlement expansion.

A review of President Donald Trump's record finds inflation slowing but prices still rising, employment mixed, and investment claims overstated. Assertions on voter fraud and ending multiple wars lack strong supporting evidence.

Three women deny criminal damage after allegedly targeting a Newcastle factory with red paint in protest over Gaza. Prosecutors say the action was planned and caused damage, despite the women’s claimed political motivation.

Trump denied reports that his top military adviser warned against striking Iran, calling the claims 'fake news'. The comments come as the United States boosts forces in the region while continuing nuclear negotiations with Tehran.

A Reform campaign official has been suspended over alleged racist and antisemitic social media posts. Adam Mitula said his comments were taken out of context as the party confirmed a confidential investigation.

Satellite images show widespread fires in Puerto Vallarta after the killing of cartel leader 'El Mencho', triggering violence and a major military response. Authorities have deployed thousands of troops as unrest spreads across multiple regions.

The Trump Organization plans to build a 335-metre luxury skyscraper on Queensland's Gold Coast, which it says will be Australia's tallest. The $1 billion project is set to begin construction in August amid competition and renewed scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest.

Dame Stephanie Shirley's private art collection will be auctioned, with proceeds benefiting the autism charity she founded. The sale includes major works by leading British artists and reflects her lifelong commitment to philanthropy.

Protests have flared at universities in Tehran weeks after a deadly crackdown, with verified footage showing clashes and rival demonstrations. Authorities are also examining violence in Mexico after a cartel leader's death and investigating a security breach at Mar-a-Lago.

Wes Streeting has released messages with Peter Mandelson, revealing Labour's election concerns and criticism of government strategy. The messages also discuss the recognition of a Palestinian state and internal party tensions. Mandelson's resignation and ongoing investigation add further controversy.

Wes Streeting has released his messages with Peter Mandelson, revealing election concerns and criticism of government strategy. The move aims to address transparency and distance Streeting from Mandelson amid ongoing investigations.

Norwegian police are investigating diplomat Mona Juul and her husband over links to Jeffrey Epstein. Juul resigned after reports her children were named in Epstein's will, and authorities are examining whether she received benefits in her official role. Several other prominent Norwegians are also implicated in the widening scandal.

Israel has approved new measures in the West Bank that critics say amount to de facto annexation and will accelerate settlement expansion. Palestinians and several countries have condemned the moves, warning of increased tensions and displacement. The changes come as settlement growth reaches record levels and international calls for intervention intensify.

The first episode of a new series investigates the ancient history behind the Middle East conflict, focusing on Israel and the Palestinians. Experts discuss the Bible, archaeology, and the Roman era to provide context for today's tensions.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to Australia has drawn both support and criticism, with protests planned over his alleged role in the Gaza conflict. Herzog began his trip by honoring victims of the Bondi Beach attack, amid tight security and political debate. The visit highlights deep divisions within the Australian community over the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Iranians in Northern Ireland held a demonstration in Belfast, urging international support amid deadly crackdowns on protests in Iran. Community members shared fears for their loved ones and called for greater political action. The group emphasized the need for global solidarity to help those suffering in Iran.

The Pentagon is ending its academic ties with Harvard University, citing concerns over ideology and campus activism. Military training and fellowship programs will be discontinued, with current students allowed to finish their studies. The move follows criticism from the Trump administration and may signal further cuts to other universities.

The Rafah border crossing has reopened, bringing relief but also frustration to Palestinians due to restricted access. The programme also covers Cuba's economic crisis, Bangladesh's upcoming election, Ukraine's power struggles, and Slovenia's Olympic hopes.

The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics opened with a multi-location ceremony featuring Andrea Bocelli and Mariah Carey. The event was praised for its seamless execution and warm crowd support for athletes, though some political figures faced boos.

The United States announced new oil sanctions on Iran following indirect talks in Oman about Iran's nuclear program. The program also reports on a suicide attack in Islamabad, European Union orders to TikTok, and the Winter Olympics opening.

Lebanon accuses Israel of spraying toxic herbicide over southern villages, raising alarm for food security and the environment. Authorities found glyphosate at dangerously high levels, prompting plans for a formal complaint to the United Nations. The incident has heightened concerns for displaced communities and local agriculture.

A specialist United States military jet has landed in the Middle East as tensions with Iran persist. Increased activity at a key American air base in Germany signals a continued build-up of forces.

A specialist United States military jet has arrived in the Middle East amid ongoing tensions with Iran. BBC Verify is also investigating the release of sensitive Epstein files, a reported Russian attack on Ukrainian railway infrastructure, and an explosion on a cargo ship near St Petersburg.

A man has been convicted of hate crimes after damaging Qurans and writing anti-Semitic graffiti in Leeds. Ibrahim Iqbal targeted a hospital prayer room and will be sentenced in February. His actions were described as a campaign of hatred against religious communities.

Israeli strikes in Gaza have killed at least 17 Palestinians, including children, after a soldier was wounded in the north. The violence comes amid ongoing accusations of ceasefire violations from both sides.

Iran's president says the country will negotiate with the United States, responding to regional requests and a recent proposal. Talks are set to take place in Istanbul amid rising tensions and military buildup. Both sides have expressed hope for a possible deal.

Israel has reopened the Rafah border crossing with limited daily crossings as part of a ceasefire plan for Gaza. Other global stories include Pakistan's anti-polio campaign and developments in Syria, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

A five-year-old boy and his father detained in Texas have been released and are back in Minneapolis, following national outcry. Other stories include a resignation over links to Jeffrey Epstein, the reopening of the Rafah border, a drop in oil prices, the launch of an artificial intelligence social network, and highlights from the Grammy Awards.

Iran and the United States are engaged in serious talks on Iran's nuclear programme amid rising military tensions. The United States president is optimistic about reaching a deal, while Iran warns of possible regional conflict. Other stories include a tech company sale and a Samurai exhibition.

Israel will ban Médecins Sans Frontières from working in Gaza after the charity refused to provide staff lists. The move is part of a broader crackdown on international aid groups and has sparked concern over healthcare access in the region.

BBC correspondents share stories from Iran, Myanmar, China, South Africa, and Lithuania, highlighting political turmoil, public health challenges, and efforts to remember history. The programme features firsthand accounts from those affected by these events.

BBC Radio 4 shares firsthand stories from Iran's protest crackdown, Myanmar's contested elections, and global issues in China, South Africa, and Lithuania. The episode highlights personal accounts and ongoing challenges in each region.

Melania Trump's new documentary reveals glimpses of her personal life and grief, but avoids deeper political and family topics. The film has sparked controversy over its funding and timing, leaving many questions unanswered. It highlights her focus on ceremonial duties and personal growth as first lady.

President Trump claims Iran wants a deal to avoid military action, but Iranian officials reject negotiating on defense systems. Tensions rise as both sides discuss nuclear issues and respond to recent protests.

Iran signals willingness for nuclear talks with the United States as Turkey offers to mediate. Other headlines include diplomatic moves by the United Kingdom and China, new US sanctions on Cuba, and major developments in Syria and New York.

Glasgow's Centre for Contemporary Arts is closing permanently after financial concerns and staff redundancies. The venue has faced years of disputes, protests, and instability, ending its long-standing role in the city's cultural scene.

The United Nations faces a severe financial crisis due to unpaid fees from member states, with warnings that funds could run out by July. Secretary General António Guterres has called for urgent action to prevent the organisation's collapse.

Heightened tensions between the US and Iran could lead to a more unpredictable response from Tehran, as internal unrest and regional risks grow. The situation is volatile, with both sides facing difficult choices and the potential for rapid escalation.

Families of Indian crew members detained in Iran are urging their safe return amid worsening conditions and regional tensions. Ten have been jailed, while others remain on the seized ship with limited contact and poor living conditions.

Donald Trump's border enforcement chief Tom Homan is seeking to make immigration operations in Minneapolis safer and more efficient. He indicated a possible reduction in enforcement if local officials cooperate.

Reform UK has withdrawn support for its Redcar by-election candidate after offensive social media posts surfaced. Mike Manning has resigned from the party, but his name will remain on the ballot. Other parties have criticised Reform UK's vetting process.

Swansea City will be without Zeidane Inoussa for up to twelve weeks due to injury, while Manuel Benson is set to leave the club. Head coach Vitor Matos is confident the squad can cope with these changes.

Atalanta advanced to the Champions League play-offs despite losing 1-0 to Union Saint-Gilloise. Union were eliminated on goal difference, while Atalanta finished 15th in the league phase.

The United States has increased its military presence in the Middle East, raising concerns about a potential strike on Iran. President Trump has warned Iran to limit its nuclear program, while diplomatic options remain on the table. Military experts say the US could target various Iranian assets if an attack is ordered.

Scottish fibre optic firm Emtelle has secured a deal in Indonesia to strengthen its global manufacturing and supply chain. The move aims to address rising demand and supply challenges in the industry.

President Trump sends Tom Homan to lead immigration efforts in Minneapolis after recent federal agent incidents. Other headlines include North American storms, Gaza peace talks, Nike layoffs, dark matter research, and magic mushrooms.

Morocco and Egypt join President Trump's Board of Peace, raising questions about Africa's role in global conflict resolution. Namibia's major fisheries corruption scandal is also set to go to trial, with new insights from the whistleblower.

The Israeli military has recovered the remains of Ran Gvili, the last hostage held in Gaza since the October 2023 attack. His return marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the conflict.

Three demonstrators have been charged with stirring up racial hatred over alleged intifada chants at a London protest. Police and prosecutors say there is enough evidence to bring the case to court, while community groups remain divided over the arrests.

Israel will reopen the Rafah crossing with Egypt only after completing a search for the body of the last Israeli hostage in Gaza. The operation is underway in Gaza City, with the reopening also subject to Israeli inspection. The decision comes as international mediators push for progress in the Gaza peace plan.

Police officers in England and Wales will need to hold a work licence and prove their skills to stay in their jobs, under new Home Office plans. Ministers will also gain powers to dismiss chief constables and intervene in failing forces as part of a major overhaul of policing.

Police officers in England and Wales will be required to obtain and renew a work licence under new government reforms. The changes also give ministers greater powers to dismiss police chiefs and aim to standardise training and improve policing standards.

West Midlands Police admits it overstated evidence in the decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from a Birmingham football match. The force cited errors in its process and is now reviewing its use of artificial intelligence. The matter will be discussed at a public meeting.

Somaliland's president met with Israel's leader and Eric Trump at Davos to discuss investment and diplomatic ties. The meetings follow Israel's recognition of Somaliland, drawing both international support and criticism.

Danny Cahalane's ex-wife is accused of helping a drug gang target him before his fatal acid attack in Plymouth. Prosecutors say she provided information about his location in exchange for money. Multiple people are on trial for murder and related charges.

Donald Trump has launched a Board of Peace aimed at addressing global conflicts, raising concerns among allies and inviting controversial leaders. The initiative's scope and potential to rival existing international organizations are under scrutiny.

President Trump has withdrawn Canada's invitation to join his new Board of Peace, citing no reason for the move. The decision comes amid rising tensions and differing views on the board's purpose and membership.

President Trump launches a new peace initiative, though some European countries opt out. US envoys visit Moscow for Ukraine talks, and the film Sinners breaks Oscar nomination records.

The United States has announced a sweeping plan to rebuild Gaza with skyscrapers and new infrastructure, contingent on a lasting ceasefire and demilitarisation. The proposal comes amid ongoing humanitarian challenges and political uncertainty over Gaza's future.