Starmer to take PMQs as he faces backlash over ‘poisoned chalice’ defence investment plan – UK politics live

• UN agencies warn that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could result in economic losses totaling 194 billion USD for Arab States. • The report highlights a significant risk to the labor market, specifically threatening the jobs and economic stability of women in the region.

• A new report highlights India's expanding global influence, driven by a strategic combination of diplomacy, defense capabilities, and development initiatives. • India is positioning itself as a leading voice for the Global South, leveraging its economic growth and strategic partnerships to bridge the gap between developing and developed nations.

• Dr. Dale McKinley discussed the rise of global anti-immigrant sentiment during an interview with Ml Sulaimaan Ravat on the program Sabahul Muslim on June 30, 2026. • McKinley argued that removing illegal migrants from the country would not resolve systemic national issues, such as infrastructural crises and the lack of service delivery.

• The Iranian political establishment is facing unprecedented institutional friction and leadership fractures following the transition of authority from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. • This internal instability is compounded by widespread socioeconomic unrest, signaling a deepening systemic crisis within the post-Khamenei power structure.

• Turkey is expressing skepticism regarding NATO's effectiveness and strategic role leading up to the upcoming alliance summit. • The analysis highlights growing tensions and doubts within the Turkish government concerning the alliance's ability to address regional security challenges.

• Following the signing of a U.S.-Iran memorandum by President Donald Trump, Israel has agreed in principle to begin withdrawing its forces from parts of southern Lebanon. • The agreement comes as a direct consequence of the memorandum, signaling a significant shift in regional diplomatic dynamics and security arrangements.

• On June 29, dozens of governments agreed to strengthen energy efficiency policies to better protect households and businesses from volatile energy prices. • The initiative aims to improve global resilience against future energy shocks, specifically those potentially caused by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to Middle East conflicts.

• Middle East conflicts over the last 2.5 years have caused significant casualties and disrupted global energy, commerce, and technological connectivity. • Attacks in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf have severely restricted the export of critical resources from GCC states, including oil, gas, urea, sulfur, and helium.

• South Korean tech leaders Samsung Electronics Co. and SK Hynix Inc. announced a massive joint investment of approximately 4,755 trillion won ($3.08 trillion) on June 30, 2026. • The funding is part of a broader government initiative designed to stimulate regional development through the integration and advancement of artificial intelligence.

• Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned the United States in a televised interview on Tuesday that Iran will "definitely react" to recent events in the Persian Gulf. • Ghalibaf characterized these recent developments as a direct violation of the existing understanding intended to end the conflict in the region.

• The June 29, 2026, episode of "Amanpour & Company" features a series of global reports and expert analyses on geopolitical and social issues. • Key segments include Stefano Pozzebon’s reporting on the earthquake crisis in Venezuela and Edward Fishman’s insights into escalating U.S.-Iran tensions.

• Lt. Gen. Sagheer bin Aziz, Yemen’s chief of the General Staff, announced that the country's military leadership and decision-making processes have been unified. • The initiative aims to consolidate all military formations under the official umbrella of the Ministry of Defense to streamline command.