News
US Embassy Urges Citizens to Depart Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions
The United States Embassy in Beirut has issued an urgent advisory, recommending that American citizens leave Lebanon on “any ticket available” due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. This advisory echoes a similar warning from UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who cautioned that the situation “could deteriorate rapidly.”
Tensions have heightened following Iran’s vow of “severe” retaliation against Israel, which Iran accuses of assassinating Hamas leader Ismael Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday. This incident occurred shortly after Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. There is growing concern that Lebanon-based Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, could significantly participate in any retaliation, potentially triggering a severe Israeli response.
The US Embassy’s statement on Saturday advised those choosing to remain in Lebanon to “prepare contingency plans” and be ready to “shelter in place for an extended period of time.” Despite several airlines suspending and canceling flights, the embassy noted that “commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available.”
In response to the situation, the Pentagon has announced the deployment of additional warships and fighter jets to the region to bolster Israel’s defenses against potential attacks by Iran and its proxies.
The UK has also increased its readiness by sending extra military personnel, consular staff, and border force officials to assist with possible evacuations, urging its citizens to leave the country “while commercial flights are running.” Two British military ships are already stationed in the region, and the Royal Air Force has transport helicopters on standby.
David Lammy emphasized that it is “in no one’s interest for this conflict to spread across the region.” In a conversation with EU Foreign Policy Chief Joseph Borrell on Friday, Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani stated that Iran would “undoubtedly use its inherent and legitimate right” to “punish” Israel.
On Friday, Iranian state TV issued a warning that “the world would witness extraordinary scenes.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has alerted Israelis to “challenging days” ahead, noting threats from multiple directions and affirming that Israel is “prepared for any scenario.” In preparation for potential communication disruptions, Israeli ministers were equipped with satellite phones over the weekend.
During a funeral ceremony for Haniyeh in Tehran on Thursday, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, led prayers and vowed that Israel would face “harsh punishment” for the killing.
News
Investigation Continues as Andrew Released After Historic Royal Arrest
Search efforts and inquiries remain ongoing after Prince Andrew was released under investigation following a day spent in police custody.
More than 19 hours after he was photographed reclining in the back seat of a vehicle upon release, the King’s younger brother remains at the centre of an active inquiry. The 66-year-old spent approximately 11 hours in custody on his birthday after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The development marked the first arrest of a senior royal in modern history.
Following his release, Andrew departed Aylsham Police Station after a lengthy period that involved hours of transport and waiting.
Although no charges have been filed, Andrew has been released under investigation — meaning he is free to resume daily activities for now, but remains subject to further questioning as inquiries progress.
Authorities continue to examine matters linked to properties associated with the Duke, including locations connected to the Sandringham Estate.
According to royal correspondent Helena Wilkinson, Andrew’s legal situation remains unresolved, and he may be required to return for additional interviews as the investigation develops.
News
Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
Authorities have confirmed that Prince Andrew was arrested earlier today on suspicion of misconduct in public office, marking a significant development that is now set to move through the formal legal system.
The arrest took place at a residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk at approximately 08:00 this morning. Police have since continued investigative searches at that property, as well as at his former home located within Windsor Great Park.
In recent weeks, Andrew had relocated from Windsor to establish a temporary base at Sandringham while renovation work progresses on his future long-term residence at nearby Marsh Farm.
The Sandringham Estate, originally acquired in 1862 as a private retreat for the future Edward VII when he was Albert, Prince of Wales, has long remained a cherished country residence passed from monarch to monarch. It continues to serve as a traditional gathering place for the Royal Family, particularly during the Christmas period.
It is understood Andrew has been staying at Wood Farm, a secluded house near the village of Wolferton. The residence holds personal significance, having been chosen by his father, Prince Philip, as his primary home following retirement from public duties in 2017.
Today, Sandringham has seen heightened police presence as the investigation proceeds.
Meanwhile, King Charles III continued with his scheduled public engagements in London, where he was greeted by both questions and expressions of public support upon arrival.
Maintaining continuity and stability, the King chose—like the Queen earlier—to proceed with previously planned duties. In a statement, he reaffirmed confidence in due process, noting that “the law must take its course.”
It has also been confirmed that neither the King nor Buckingham Palace were informed in advance of the arrest, underscoring the independence of the legal process now underway.
News
Police Review Private Flights at Stansted Following Epstein File Revelations
Authorities are assessing new information concerning private jet movements at Stansted Airport after fresh scrutiny linked to the activities of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Essex Police confirmed it is examining details related to private flights arriving at and departing from the airport in light of disclosures emerging from the recently published Epstein files.
The review follows calls from former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who urged in the New Statesman that law enforcement should “urgently” revisit whether Epstein’s victims may have been trafficked into or out of the United Kingdom.
A previous investigation identified 87 flights connected to Epstein that either landed at or departed from UK airports between the early 1990s and 2018.
Stansted Airport has maintained that private aircraft operations are conducted independently, noting that it does not oversee passenger arrangements for privately chartered flights.
The police assessment is part of broader efforts to understand any potential connections between flight activity and trafficking concerns raised in the wake of the latest disclosures.
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