Iran is turning into the sort of ‘forever war’ that Donald Trump promised to avoid
When Donald Trump returned to the White House, he promised to avoid another Middle Eastern “forever war”. After the costly experiences of Iraq and Afghanistan, that pledge resonated with an American public weary of prolonged military intervention. For a brief moment, it appeared that this promise might be realised. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed […]
K-pop is becoming more international – what that means for the K in the genre
K-pop has become a multibillion-dollar global success. This growth has been driven by viral choreography, high-concept music videos and a highly passionate fanbase that functions like an unofficial global marketing team. Wanting to expand its international appeal, the genre is opening up to more non-Korean idols (the name for K-pop performers) than ever. This desire […]
‘Manchesterism’ is bigger than Andy Burnham
Aerial image of part of Manchester’s city centre at dusk. Shutterstock/Bardhok Ndoji Walk along Manchester’s Oxford Road on a weekday morning and it is difficult not to notice the northern English city’s confidence. Home to two universities, major NHS hospitals and world-leading research institutions, the Oxford Road Corridor is underpinned by a partnership that brings […]
Fifa president Gianni Infantino set for fourth term – despite World Cup controversies
As President Donald Trump presented the World Cup trophy to Spain at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the man in charge of world football’s governing body, Fifa, seemed untouched by the competition’s controversies. In a break with protocol, the final was staged with a glitzy Super Bowl-style half-time show – at 27 minutes and […]
World Cup ‘Falklands are Argentine’ banner is a foretaste of diplomatic challenges ahead for the UK
The sovereignty dispute between Britain and Argentina over the Falkland Islands (or Las Islas Malvinas) was brought centre-stage once again in the aftermath of the World Cup semi-final in Atlanta. Several members of Argentina’s squad celebrated with a banner plucked from the stands occupied by Argentine supporters that declared: “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (the Falklands […]
The next skincare revolution could start with your immune system
Jacob Lund/Shutterstock Moisturisers, sunscreens and anti-ageing creams are usually sold on familiar promises: to keep water in the skin, strengthen its protective barrier, protect against sun damage or reduce visible signs of ageing. These functions remain central to healthy skin. Researchers are now taking a broader view. The skin is also an active immune organ […]
Why handheld fans are not cool for the planet
Parfenish_579/Shutterstock Portable handheld fans are now often stacked beside chewing gum and vapes at supermarket checkouts and discount stores, available for less than £10. Once mainly sold online, they’re convenient, affordable and increasingly popular. Some people use them on the bus, in the park or while waiting for a train. But they’re another example of […]
Keir Starmer leaves Downing Street for the last time as Andy Burnham becomes prime minister
After becoming leader of the Labour party, Andy Burnham will officially become prime minister of the UK as Keir Starmer leaves Number 10. That many people considered this day an inevitability doesn’t make it any less momentous. Six years ago, Starmer inherited a Labour party that had failed to win four general elections and was […]
How Manchester created Manchesterism: from music and culture to political power
Manchester has always been an English city that tells its story through culture. Its reputation was not built solely through a global crucible of industry, commerce or politics but through music, football, television, art and a tradition of creative self-invention. The northern English city of Manchester has played a critical role in the development of […]
Ukraine’s defence shake-up exposes rift in Zelensky’s inner circle
For the second time in a year, there have been public protests in Ukraine in response to a decision by the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky. In July 2025, protests erupted when Zelensky tried to curb the powers of two independent corruption agencies, forcing him to backtrack. The trigger for the latest protests was the dismissal […]