UK has opened diplomatic contact with Syrian rebels who toppled Assad, says Lammy

Allies of Kemi Badenoch are urging people to scrutinize the record of Nigerian VP Kashim Shettima, who criticized her for denigrating her country of origin, while praising Rishi Sunak. Badenoch's supporters argue that Shettima's tenure as governor during the Boko Haram kidnapping of 276 girls in 2014 reflects Nigeria's failings in addressing such issues, highlighting his delayed response and failure to secure the girls' release. Full Article

Your support helps The Independent to cover important stories, from reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, with on-the-ground reporting and investigative work. Donations enable journalists to provide unbiased coverage and reach both sides of the story, ensuring quality journalism is accessible to all. Yvette Cooper has not set a deadline for reducing dangerous small boat crossings in the Channel, with 34,880 arrivals so far this year, up 20% from last year, but down...

Rachel Reeves' Budget measures are projected to devastate care providers, leading to vulnerable disabled and elderly individuals not receiving care next year. The rise in national insurance, minimum wage, and living wage could bankrupt local authorities and threaten the future of care companies, as warned by the Homecare Association. Industry analysts report a growing gap in profits between providers serving privately paying customers and those dependent on state or NHS funding, potentially resulting in a...

Israel's foreign minister criticized Ireland for its "extreme anti-Israel policies" following Dublin's recognition of Palestinian statehood and accusations of genocide in Gaza. The denouncement highlights growing tensions between the two countries over their differing stances on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Ireland's actions have sparked condemnation from Israel, further straining their diplomatic relations. Full Article

Yvette Cooper criticized China for allegedly sending a spy who became close to Prince Andrew and met with former UK prime ministers. MPs threatened to reveal the spy's identity if the courts do not act. The UK government faces a complex situation balancing national security concerns with the need for economic cooperation with China. Full Article

In Damascus, a United Nations envoy calls for the swift lifting of Western sanctions against Syria to support the rebuilding efforts after the fall of President Bashar Assad and the formation of an interim government. Geir Pedersen emphasizes the importance of inclusive political approaches to bring the nation together and address the challenges faced by the war-torn country, urging for justice, accountability, and humanitarian assistance for the Syrian people. The new interim administration, led by...