The BBC reports that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested that former royal, stripped of his titles, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, should testify before the US Congress regarding documents, photos, and communications related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Recently released documents and photos show interactions and meetings between Andrew and Epstein, including some concerning images. BBC Verify has confirmed that parts of the interior and other images match Epstein’s New York mansion, implying a connection to past cases.

Starmer stated that anyone holding key information should consider testifying in Congress, especially from the victims’ perspective, to ensure full transparency of evidence. These recommendations follow the release of a batch of documents including historical communications and photos, though Andrew himself denies any wrongdoing.

Other newly revealed documents include communications and financial transactions involving other individuals, some of whom deny wrongdoing or claim the situation has been exaggerated.

US President Donald Trump recently issued an unprecedented warning to Iran, threatening that if Tehran does not reach a nuclear agreement, the US will launch a military strike with “speed and violence.” The US has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Lincoln and several missile destroyers to the Middle East, ready to take action at any moment.

Trump called on Iran via social media to “immediately negotiate and reach an agreement banning nuclear weapons,” warning that the consequences would be more severe than last year’s US strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran responded that it is willing to engage in dialogue based on mutual respect and interests but warned it would defend itself with unprecedented force if pressured.

Domestic protests in Iran have lasted about a month, evolving into a challenge against the theocratic regime, with at least 6,221 people reported dead due to the crackdown. The Iranian rial recently fell to a historic low, sparking public anxiety and anger. Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have stated they will not allow US forces to use their airspace for attacks on Iran. Egypt and Turkey have also attempted diplomatic interventions to ease tensions and prevent the region from falling into a cycle of instability.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Sunday that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit Australia in March 2026 and deliver a speech to the Australian Parliament.

Albanese noted that following Carney’s widely discussed speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the two leaders engaged in in-depth discussions on global shifts, economic cooperation, and multilateralism. He emphasized that Australia and Canada share common perspectives in responding to challenges to international rules and pressures from major powers, and both recognize the role of middle powers in the global order.

In his speech, Carney criticized certain major powers for using economic integration and tariffs as political tools, and called on middle powers to strengthen cooperation to safeguard their own interests and promote international fairness. Albanese publicly expressed support for Carney, saying this reflected the two countries’ shared stance amid global economic and political changes.

The visit also builds on an agreement reached in October of the previous year to enhance cooperation on critical minerals. Against the backdrop of increasingly complex global supply chains and geopolitical tensions, Carney’s trip to Australia is seen as a key diplomatic initiative for middle democratic nations seeking greater influence on the international stage.

The visit is regarded as a major step in deepening diplomatic and economic ties between Canada and Australia. Carney, who has served as governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, is internationally recognized for his insights into the global financial system, and his advocacy for multilateralism has drawn broad attention.