Two Republican senators have criticised Pakistan and Qatar over their involvement in discussions linked to the Iran peace process. Senator Rick Scott said, “Pakistan and Qatar have long histories of harbouring terrorists,” while questioning their role as mediators. Senator Tim Sheehy also argued that countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Israel should be included in the talks. The remarks came after US Vice President J D Vance joined negotiations with leaders from Pakistan and Qatar in Switzerland. The comments have intensified debate in Washington over regional diplomacy, alliances and the future of the Iran negotiations.

Iran's judiciary has announced the arrest of more than 3,000 people accused of helping Israel or acting against the state. Officials said 3,292 people were detained, including hundreds accused of carrying out operations for Israel. Others were charged with spreading anti-government propaganda. Authorities said more than 1,000 indictments have already been issued, and assets belonging to some suspects have been seized. The arrests are part of a wider crackdown that followed anti-government protests and the recent conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. Human rights groups have criticised the detentions and called for due process. (PC: Reuters)

The Pentagon is seeking about $80 billion from the US Congress, mainly to cover costs linked to the war with Iran. Defence officials said the money would help replace military stockpiles, repair equipment and support ongoing operations. The request comes as President Donald Trump pushes for a record defence budget of $1.5 trillion. Some lawmakers have expressed concern about increasing military spending while many Americans face economic challenges. Others argue the funding is needed to strengthen national security and replenish weapons supplies. The proposal is expected to face intense debate before Congress decides whether to approve it. (PC: AP)

At least 13 people were killed and 66 others injured after an explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan industrial zone, home to one of the world’s largest liquefied natural gas facilities. Authorities said the blast was caused by a technical accident at the Barzan gas supply facility. Qatar’s Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi said there was no sign of sabotage and that an investigation is underway. Officials confirmed that those killed were from India and Pakistan. Emergency teams quickly brought the fire under control. The incident is not expected to affect Qatar’s energy exports. (PC: AFP Via Getty Images)

Oracle has confirmed that it cut about 21,000 jobs worldwide during fiscal 2026 as the company expands its use of artificial intelligence. The workforce fell from around 162,000 employees to 141,000 by the end of May 2026. Oracle said AI technologies have already reduced staffing needs and could lead to more job cuts in the future. The company is investing heavily in AI and cloud computing infrastructure, including large data centres for AI services. Oracle spent $1.84 billion on restructuring costs during the year. The company is also planning major investments to support its AI growth strategy.

Iran briefly walked out of high-level talks in Switzerland after objecting to fresh threats made by US President Donald Trump. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran would not continue discussions under pressure, stating, “We never negotiate under threats or pressure.” He said the issue was raised directly with US Vice President JD Vance during the meeting. Iran also refused to take part in a planned joint photo with the US delegation. Despite the walkout, discussions continued through Qatari and Pakistani mediators as efforts to ease regional tensions and advance a broader agreement moved forward. (PC: AFP)

Two Republican US senators publicly criticised Pakistan and Qatar during discussions surrounding ongoing US-Iran diplomacy in Switzerland. Senator Rick Scott said both countries have histories of harbouring terrorists and questioned their role in efforts linked to Iran, while reiterating that Tehran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Senator Tim Sheehy cited Pakistan’s past association with hiding Osama bin Laden and argued that key US allies such as the UAE, Israel and Saudi Arabia should also be represented in negotiations. The remarks followed US Vice President JD Vance describing Pakistan as a valued partner. (PC: The Collector)

US and Iran have taken another step toward a permanent post-war agreement after a first round of negotiations in Switzerland, with mediators Qatar and Pakistan announcing a roadmap for a final deal within 60 days. US Vice-President JD Vance described the talks as constructive and said discussions included reopening the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining the regional ceasefire. However, a key dispute emerged after Vance claimed Iran could soon allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors back into the country. Tehran quickly rejected the assertion, saying it had made no new commitments on inspections. Meanwhile, Washington issued a 60-day sanctions waiver allowing Iranian oil sales in US dollars, easing major restrictions while negotiations continue amid lingering disagreements over nuclear oversight and regional security arrangements. (PC: X)

Britain's Labour Party is looking to Andy Burnham as its next leader after Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigned. Burnham's recent by-election victory has strengthened his position as Labour tries to stop the growing popularity of Nigel Farage's Reform UK.   Reform UK has gained support by focusing on immigration and voter frustration over the economy and government policies. Labour has also faced criticism over internal disputes and policy decisions. Political observers say Burnham's biggest challenge will be winning back voters who have moved away from Labour and preventing Reform UK from expanding its influence across the country. (PC: HT)

While UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation has triggered fresh political uncertainty, one familiar resident of 10 Downing Street is staying put. Larry the Cat, the long-serving "Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office", is set to welcome his seventh prime minister in just over a decade. Larry has lived at Downing Street since 2011 and has become a symbol of continuity through a period of rapid political change. Having served under six prime ministers already, the popular tabby once again finds himself at the centre of attention as Britain prepares for a new leader.