- The Iranian parliament speaker has said President Donald Trump’s claims that “productive” discussions had taken place between the US and Iran were “fake news”.
- It comes as Pakistan is reportedly positioning itself as the lead mediator to broker an end to the US and Israel’s war against Iran.
- Mr Trump also proposed the extraordinary idea of “joint leadership” with Iran’s unnamed ayatollah – suggesting the latter could control the Strait of Hormuz.
- Meanwhile, a new report suggests the US could send in 3,000 troops to support the war effort - with Kharg Island, the Middle Eastern country’s main oil export hub, a potential target.
- In the UK, Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of “complacency” with MPs telling him the country “is at war” while criticising his lack of preparedness for conflict.