Police in England and Wales have lost public trust over the last decade, with confidence in policing declining across several measures since 2015. Five years on from the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving London Met police officer, Met commissioner Mark Rowley says he understands why women still do not trust the UK’s largest force.

Everard’s murder and the lack of police investigation into violence against women and girls more generally is just one example of why trust has dipped. Other reasons include use of stop-and-search that disproportionately affects black people, and independent reviews finding that police organisational culture in the Met and other forces is institutionally racist, sexist and homophobic.

The government recently released its plans for the most significant overhaul of policing in decades. The proposals include changes to the sizes of forces, a new system of police licensing, and improving oversight and accountability for police.

This is an opportunity for policing to move away from the “warrior culture” that drives a wedge between police and local communities. As I have explored in my research, warrior-like policing culture – characterised by aggression, violence, sexism, racism and homophobia – is present in forces around the world, including in the UK.

The UK has made strides to increase transparency and accountability nationally, with publicly accessible barred police officers lists and using body-worn cameras.

The government’s proposal to reduce the number of forces in England and Wales from 43 to around 12 could be a chance to purge the most harmful aspects of this culture. Larger police forces are typically more diverse, and have more robust complaints and oversight systems. For example, New York and other US cities have civilian complaint review boards, which allow members of the public to review police misconduct complaints and be involved in improving policing.

À lire aussi :
Met police: Casey review shows how ‘warrior culture’ drives policing in the UK

It could also be a chance to replace this warrior-like culture with “guardianship policing”, a policing model that prioritises police legitimacy through community respect, partnership and working with the public to combat crime and violence. This could include creative new solutions to local crime problems – like adopting public health solutions to issues like knife crime, which are health, not punishment, focused.

Improving accountability

Under the proposals, all police officers across England and Wales will be required to hold and regularly renew their Licence to Practice. While the College of Policing will set the standards, this is an opportunity to develop more robust, fair and accountable training and licensing requirements.

Too often, police standards and training are designed and delivered by current and former officers without input from the communities they serve. Members of the public could offer perspectives on their own experiences of crime, and also of poor policing, to better inform police of the consequences of their work.

The government also wants to give the police inspectorate new legal powers to better support and incentivise problematic forces to improve. This means the inspectorate could take action where they find deeply embedded misogyny, racism, homophobia or other worrying misconduct. However, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the police misconduct complaints watchdog, also needs increased enforcement powers so they can directly hold problematic people and forces to account, which they cannot currently do.

À lire aussi :
Police are failing to deliver a minimum standard of service, according to the UK public

But even under the proposals, the police inspectorate and IOPC will still handle too few cases. Currently, police misconduct is mostly handled internally within forces, and often results in little action. The inspectorate and the misconduct watchdog should therefore also be empowered to sue problematic forces for systemic problems, which they still will not be able to do under the proposals.

Another possibility would be to give courts the power to create and enforce consent decrees. Common in the US, these court-ordered settlement agreements mandate changes to troubled police forces, which are overseen by a court or independent monitoring team. These are the types of reforms that would give systemic misconduct investigations real teeth.

Politicising the police

The reforms present some real opportunities to change policing, but are also fraught with potential for misuse.

For example, giving central government more control over policing, including restoring the home secretary’s ability to fire chief constables. This could be helpful in instances of large numbers of police misconduct complaints or low police legitimacy levels in certain forces. But if a home secretary can fire police chiefs on a whim – because they don’t their like politics, because they work too closely with local communities, or because their initiatives are not punitive enough – that is problematic.

Policing policy should be driven by evidence, not by politics. The risks and implications of overly-politicised policing and security decisions are worrying, because they can mean peoples’ needs are not addressed.

To this end, it is promising that the government is replacing elected Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs). PCCs were controversially introduced in 2012, with proponents arguing they provided greater police accountability and innovation. Yet critics assert they added additional police bureaucracy, tied the hands of police chiefs in addressing local crime, and are more subject to political pressures.

The proposal to replace PCCs with Policing and Crime Boards under mayoral or local council control could allow for better coordinated, more innovative solutions to local crime and security problems. Or, it may effectively just be keeping PCCs, but under another name.

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Mike Johnson and the GOP leadership are calling for Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas to withdraw from his reelection race after he admitted having an affair with a former staff member who later died by suicide.

The Republican leadership announced its decision Thursday, a day after Gonzales acknowledged a relationship that has upturned the political world in his home state and in Washington, and after the House Ethics Committee announced an investigation into his conduct.

“We have encouraged him to address these very serious allegations directly with his constituents and his colleagues,” said Johnson, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Whip Tom Emmer, and GOP Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain in a statement.

“In the meantime, Leadership has asked Congressman Gonzales to withdraw from his race for reelection.”

Johnson, R-La., has been under enormous pressure from his own GOP lawmakers to take action, and several Republicans have already called for Gonzales to step aside. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., has introduced two resolutions to punish Gonzales. The first seeks to remove him from his assignments on the House Appropriations and Homeland Security committees, while the second seeks to censure him.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, meanwhile, said he would support expelling Gonzales from the House, a rare step that requires a two-thirds vote from the chamber.

GOP leaders notably did not call for Gonzales to resign from office as they struggle to maintain their slim majority in the House, which they hold by only a handful of seats.

Their move came after Gonzales, appearing on the “Joe Pags Show,” was asked whether he had a relationship with the aide, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles.

Santos-Aviles, 35, died after setting herself on fire in the backyard of her home in Uvalde, Texas. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office later ruled her death a suicide.

“I made a mistake and I had a lapse in judgment, and there was a lack of faith, and I take full responsibility for those actions,” Gonzales said.

The congressman, now in his third term, has said he would not step down in response to the allegations, telling reporters recently that there will be opportunities for all the details and facts to come out.

Gonzales, a father of six, first won his seat in 2020 after retiring from a 20-year career in the Navy that included time in Iraq and Afghanistan. On Tuesday, he was forced into a May runoff against Brandon Herrera, a gun manufacturer and YouTube gun-rights influencer who narrowly lost to Gonzales in the 2024 primary.

In his interview broadcast Wednesday, Gonzales said he had not spoken to Santos-Aviles since June 2024 and she died in September 2025.

“I had absolutely nothing to do with her tragic passing, and in fact, I was shocked just as much as everyone else,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales went on to say he reconciled with his wife, Angel, and has asked God to forgive him. He also said he looked forward to the Ethics Committee investigation.

Johnson and GOP leadership urged that committee to “act expeditiously.”

Under House ethics rules, lawmakers may not engage in a sexual relationship with any employee of the House under their supervision.

Online dating sites and apps are two of the most popular ways to meet a new partner in 2026. In fact, a recent YouGov survey found that it’s how nine per cent of adults in Britain found their partner.

Unsurprisingly, Tinder remains the most popular dating app, although Hinge has become bigger with those looking for something more serious, with its “designed to be deleted” model, according to a TGI consumer survey.

Most people remain unwilling to pay for a dating site. However the likes of eharmony and Our Time, which encourage users to pay for better features, are popular with over 50s, who tend to be serious daters.

Evidently, there’s a lot to consider when choosing a dating site, and the vast number in the UK (around 450) can make deciding the right one for you tricky to navigate. Whether you’re looking for something short or long-term, interested in talking before you meet or to date straight away or want to date someone of the same religion, I’ve put together this guide on dating sites to go some way to helping.

The best dating apps and sites of 2026: At a glance

Professional dog trainer with 20 years experience shares the three dog breeds he would not recommend — including one capable of killing an entire pack of wolves

A seasoned dog trainer and founder of the esteemed American Standard Dog Training company has revealed in a short YouTube video the three breeds he would advise against owning, from his professional perspective. Garret Wing, who boasts over two decades of experience training police dogs for both street work and competitions, highlighted certain breeds he deems unsuitable for families or challenging to manage.

Garret, whose YouTube channel has amassed an impressive 2.5 million subscribers, even mentioned one breed capable of “killing an entire pack of wolves”. In the 2023 video, Garret identified three extra-large dog breeds that potential owners might wish to steer clear of.

The first breed, which he stated they’d “never recommend as professional dog trainers,” is the Tibetan Mastiff, reports the Express.

He explained: “Starting with number three, the Tibetan Mastiff. A monster of a dog that is capable of killing an entire pack of wolves.

“So, do you think you need that in your home, with your small children? Not necessarily.

“They’re also known for being very stubborn and difficult to train. Beautiful animals, probably not for you.”

Next up was the Great Dane. Despite being “sweet dogs” that can make wonderful companions, Garret warned that they will entirely transform your lifestyle.

Owners of this breed may find themselves having to reorganise their entire home, invest in an oversized crate, and give serious thought to furniture arrangement and outdoor spaces where the dog can be taken.

He further commented: “We’re talking about a dog that is just too big for most homes.”

The breed he would least recommend, topping his list, is the Cane Corso.

This Italian mastiff breed, renowned for its livestock guarding abilities, has historically been utilised for cattle herding and large game hunting.

Garret advised against this breed for family households. He stated: “And then last but not least, we’re talking about the number one dog breed we do not recommend for families, the Cane Corso.

“That is too much dog for about 99.9% of folks, and that is coming from us, not only as professional dog trainers but owners of the Cane Corso. They are absolute battle tanks, and you don’t need that in your suburban neighbourhood.”

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Newly released police body camera footage shows bargoers and pedestrians fleeing and ducking for cover in the moments after a gunman began firing outside a Texas bar, leaving three dead in what is being investigated as potential terrorism.

“Everybody down!” one officer yells. “Where is he?”

The terrifying moments captured on video by officers and surveillance cameras that were released Thursday show how the shooting that wounded more than a dozen others unfolded quickly early Sunday in downtown Austin’s entertainment district.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said officers arrived within 56 seconds of the first 911 call, shooting and killing the suspect after he fired at police.

Davis said the investigation is ongoing and would not discuss a possible motive for the shooting that erupted a day after the U.S. and Israel launched an attack on Iran.

Police have identified the gunman as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne and say he legally bought the pistol and rifle that he used in the attack outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden. The venue is on Sixth Street, a nightlife destination filled with bars and music clubs close to the University of Texas at Austin..

Authorities now know 19 people were hit by gunfire, including the three who died, Davis said Thursday. One person remains in critical condition.

Most of those who were shot were outside the bar, including one victim who was waiting for a ride, she said.

Screaming and shouts of “get down” can be heard on a 911 call released Thursday. “There has been a shooting at Buford’s,” one caller said. “There are people dead over here. We need help right now.”

Diagne was not on the radar of authorities before he opened fire early Sunday. Davis said investigators have found he was the subject of a mental health-related welfare check, possibly in 2022, by an agency elsewhere.

He fired the first shots from his SUV then parked his vehicle and emerged with a rifle, police said. He shot another person before officers rushed to the intersection and shot and killed him, Davis said.

Jorge Pederson, 30, an aspiring mixed martial arts fighter, died from his gunshot wounds Monday. He had just moved to Texas from Minnesota. His former gym, the Academy Martial Arts Gym, said in a Facebook post that he brought “light and joy into the grueling work of training.”

Also killed were 21-year-old Savitha Shan and 19-year-old Ryder Harrington.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Harrington had attended Texas Tech University through last fall, and his former fraternity brothers at Beta Theta Pi recalled in an Instagram post his ability to “make ordinary days unforgettable.”

___

Associated Press writers Jim Vertuno in Austin, Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas; John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; and Alanna Durkin Richer in Washington contributed.

Some older people on Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could be entitled to backdated payments for enhanced mobility rate following a tribunal ruling and regulatory changes affecting claims between 2013 and 2020

Advertisement

Some older people claiming a DWP benefit could get more money. Some groups of pensioners on Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with an award for the lower rate of mobility element may be able to ask the DWP to reassess their claim.

It follows a recent change in legislation. Those over State Pension age may also be eligible for an increased award for the mobility part of PIP even if they no longer receive the benefit.

However, the change in law only relates to claimants over State Pension age and their entitlement to the enhanced mobility award. Department for Work and Pensions guidance clarifies it only applies to PIP claims that were reviewed between April 8, 2013, and November 20, 2020.

This legal amendment follows a tribunal ruling on May 22, 2020 which highlighted an unintentional gap in regulation 27 of the Social Security (Personal Independence Payment) Regulations 2013, reports the Mirror.

The guidance states: “DWP did not have the legal powers to restrict the mobility award for claimants who were in receipt of the standard rate of the mobility award and over State Pension age, on the grounds of new medical evidence. New medical evidence is a report from a health professional requested by DWP which recommended the enhanced rate of the mobility award.

“DWP were only able to restrict the mobility award for claimants if a relevant change in circumstances was identified after they reached State Pension age.”

Amendments to PIP regulations came into effect from November 30, 2020, to rectify this unintentional gap. The DWP is urging anyone who believes they may have been affected to request a review of their claim.

Who might qualify for the PIP enhanced mobility rate?

The DWP previously relied on a health professional report when assessing your claim, and if you hadn’t reported a change in your mobility requirements, you may be entitled to an uplift in your mobility award.

This is because the DWP should not have informed you it couldn’t be increased due to reaching State Pension age – meaning you could have received additional money.

The enhanced mobility rate is currently valued at £77.05 per week during this financial year, totalling £308.20 every four-week payment period. An enhanced mobility rate award could also allow someone to access the Motability Scheme, assisting them with transportation.

The Government is expanding the WaterSure scheme, meaning an extra 53,000 households on disability benefits like DLA, PIP, or Attendance Allowance could save hundreds each year.

The scheme caps bills for households that use high amounts of water due to medical needs or larger families.

Existing recipients already save an average of £325 a year, and the new reforms could add up to £100 more in savings for many.

Who qualifies for WaterSure?

To be eligible, households must:

• Be on a qualifying disability benefit such as Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
• Have a household income below £25,745 per year.
• Have a water meter and be high water users due to a medical condition or three or more children at home.

Good news: Applicants no longer need to pay for a doctor’s note, cutting extra costs.

It’s #MoneyMonday!

WaterSure is a scheme that helps people who use more water because of a disability. The scheme adds a cap to your water rates, so you will not be charged more if you use over the average water amount. Contact your local water supplier to see if you qualify. pic.twitter.com/zHydz5SyZi

— Dosh Tweets (@DoshTweets) November 13, 2023

How much could you save?

• Average existing savings: £325 per household.
• Extra savings under reforms: Up to £100 for most households.
• Total potential savings: £425 for some families per year.

Tip: Check if your water supplier participates in WaterSure to claim your savings.

Government and charity support

Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “Reforming WaterSure will make a meaningful difference to hundreds of thousands of families who need support the most.”

Mike Keil, CEO of the Consumer Council for Water, added: “These improvements will bring peace of mind to tens of thousands more customers whose circumstances mean they have no choice but to use a significant amount of water for essential needs.”

Recommended reading:

James Taylor from Scope said, “Life costs more if you are disabled, and it’s very good news that more disabled families will qualify for discounted water bills.

“Water bills for some disabled families can be eye-wateringly high.”

Rising living costs, including water bills, hit vulnerable households hardest.

Expanding WaterSure ensures families who rely on extra water for medical or disability needs are no longer left paying excessive bills.

How to apply

1. Contact your water supplier to check if you qualify.
2. Provide proof of benefits and household income.
3. Confirm your water meter and high-usage eligibility.

You don’t need a doctor’s note anymore, so the application is simpler and cheaper than before.

As Venus rushes into Aries, you will be surrounded by fruitful sources of inspiration. Allow yourself to start writing a new chapter.

Sagittarius, Aries and Pisces, there is a distinct self-assertion that will characterise you throughout the day ahead. You know your decisions will be the right ones.

Enter today boldly, bravely and beautifully you. It’s prime time for showing up authentically; don’t dim your sparkle.

Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Friday March 6, 2026.

Like checking your horoscope every morning? You can now sign up to our free daily newsletter to get a personalised reading for your star sign delivered straight to your inbox.

To download your free Unique Personal Horoscope based on your time, date and place of birth, visit patrickarundell.com/free-birth-chart/.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

Venus sashays into your sign, and suddenly you are the main character in every room you enter. Your charm is on full blast, your confidence is high and love, beauty and pleasure are ready to play by your rules. This influence is perfect for updating your look or pursuing what, and who, you desire. You are turning pages in a brand-new chapter of self-love and compelling beginnings.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Your guide planet, Venus, moves into a dreamy, introspective zone, suggesting love or romance could feel more mysterious or even secretive. You may find yourself reflecting on past connections, fantasising about future ones, or quietly nurturing a forbidden passion. This is less about grand gestures and more about quiet longing, spiritual beauty and healing through softness, sensitivity or peace.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

From today, you are charming, cheeky and truly magnetic, well, even more so, and especially in group settings or when rallying your dream team. Friendships may turn flirtatious and new connections could arrive with exciting, unexpected energy. This is a fabulous time to network and sprinkle lustre over long-term goals. Romance may bloom through shared causes or mutual passions.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

You are radiating charisma and confidence in professional spheres, so do not shy away from taking the lead or stepping into the spotlight. Venus moving into Aries can bring recognition or opportunities that elevate your reputation. Just watch for impatience or mixing business with too much pleasure. Dress sharply, speak kindly and let your personality do the heavy lifting.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

Your adventurous side gets a glamorous boost as Venus blazes into Aries. Love, beauty and inspiration are calling, so think spontaneous getaways, flirty philosophical debates or falling head-over-heels for a big idea. Romance thrives through new experiences or partners who stir your spirit. You are drawn to what expands your world and ignites your passion.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

Your composed emotional world gets a jolt as Venus heats up your intimacy zone, stirring desire, vulnerability and perhaps a few steamy surprises. You crave connection that is soulful, honest and a little wild. Shared resources, secrets or simmering power dynamics may surface, but Venus in Aries brings the guile needed to navigate it all with confidence.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

With Venus waltzing into fiery Aries, your relationships receive a passionate refresh. Love wants excitement, honesty and a little playful heat. Whether deepening a bond or diving into something new, this is no time for passive partnerships. You are magnetic and alluring, seeking connection that lights a spark and keeps it burning. Go for it, Libra!

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

Work, health and routines may not sound seductive, but as the relator planet enters your lifestyle zone, they just might be. You may find beauty in movement, motivation in intensity or even a workplace crush or creative spark where you least expect it. Just watch for burnout, you are not a machine. Enhance your schedule, enjoy fitness goals and let pleasure fuel productivity and wellbeing.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

Your love life, creativity and playful spirit receive a fabulous dose of fire. Romance is fearless, inspiration flows and fun is non-negotiable. You are not in the mood for anything lukewarm. Follow your heart wherever it leads, but pace yourself, as not every spark needs chasing. Some fires are meant to smoulder. The world is your playground, so you light it up.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 20

A feisty influence heats up your domestic zone, inspiring creativity, passion and emotional renovation. You may feel ready to redecorate, reconnect with family or add excitement to your private life. Emotions can flare, but so can affection. Create a space that reflects your true nature. Home is not just where the heart is, it is where you recharge in style.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 21 to February 19

Conversations ignite chemistry, ideas turn poetic and you are enchanting and bold. This is prime time for sharing thoughts, writing, teaching or turning animated conversation into romance. Sibling connections or community activities may bring unexpected joy or inspiration. Just beware of saying too much, too fast. Your words are powerful alchemy, so use them with care.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

Your values, resources and relationship with money receive a refresh as Venus sashays into Aries. You feel more confident in your abilities and ready to invest in what and who truly lights you up. Treat yourself, but do not let retail therapy become a full-blown love affair. When you know your worth, you stop chasing and start attracting more.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

Head here for this week’s tarot horoscope reading, and see what the cards have in store for you!

Check out the tarot horoscope reading for the month of March here.

Prefer us to the others? Then tell Google!

As a loyal Metro reader, we want to make sure you never miss our stories when searching for your news. Whether it is the latest politics news explained, live football coverage or a showbiz scoop.

Click here and tick Metro.co.uk to ensure you see stories from us first in Google Search.

MORE: Venus in Aries flips your love life on its head — each star sign’s tarot horoscope forecast

MORE: Daily horoscope March 5, 2026: Today’s predictions for your star sign

MORE: Daily horoscope March 4, 2026: Today’s predictions for your star sign

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton struck the first blow of the new Formula 1 era with first and second fastest times in opening practice at the Australian Grand Prix.

Leclerc replaced Hamilton in top spot with a late lap that moved him 0.469 seconds clear of the seven-time champion.

Until then, less than 0.1secs had separated Hamilton, Leclerc and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

Verstappen’s new team-mate Isack Hadjar was fourth fastest, 0.820secs off the pace, ahead of 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad, making his debut for the Racing Bulls team.

Aston Martin, whose dire form has been in many ways the story of the new season so far, had a predictably difficult session.

Fernando Alonso was not able to run at all because of a problem with his Honda power-unit. Team-mate Lance Stroll managed just three laps before an engine problem was also discovered on his car.

Team principal Adrian Newey had stunned F1 on Thursday when he said that the vibrations from the Honda engine were so bad that Alonso felt unable to do more than 25 laps without risking permanent nerve damage in his hands.

But this appears to have been a different reliability issue for an engine that is well below the required standard in F1 following the introduction of new rules this season.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Intense Israeli airstrikes pounded the capitals of Iran and Lebanon early Friday as the U.S. apparently struck an Iranian drone carrier at sea, intensifying its campaign targeting the Islamic Republic’s fleet of warships.

Iran launched new retaliatory attacks in the Middle East at the end of a full week of bombardment, which U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned was “about to surge dramatically.”

Israel’s military said Friday morning it had begun “a broad-scale wave of strikes” on Tehran, Iran’s capital. Witnesses described the Israeli airstrikes as particularly intense, shaking homes in the area. Others reported explosions around the Iranian city of Kermanshah in an area that is home to multiple missile bases.

The Israeli military said strikes have already destroyed most of Iran’s air defenses and missile launchers.

The war has escalated to affect countries across the Middle East and beyond. Early Friday, Iran fired missile and drone attacks into Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, all countries that host U.S. forces. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

In Lebanon, where the war has intensified fighting between Israel and Iran-allied Hezbollah militants, Israel launched a series of airstrikes late Thursday into Friday in the southern suburbs of Beirut and other areas. Motorists jammed roads trying to flee or seek shelter.

The U.S. and Israel have battered Iran with nationwide strikes, targeting their military capabilities, leadership and nuclear program.

Iran’s attacks have targeted their Arab neighbors, disrupted oil supplies and snarled global air travel. The war has killed at least 1,230 people in Iran, more than 120 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials in those countries. Six U.S. troops have been killed.

U.S. says it struck an Iranian drone carrier

The U.S. military said early Friday that it struck an Iranian drone carrier, setting it ablaze.

The U.S. military’s Central Command released black-and-white footage of the burning carrier. The Iranian military did not immediately acknowledge the attack.

The drone carrier, the IRIS Shahid Bagheri, is a converted container ship with a 180-meter-long (yard) runway for drones. The vessel can travel up to 22,000 nautical miles without needing to refuel in ports, reports said at the time of its 2005 inauguration.

Adm. Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, described the carrier as “roughly the size of a World War II aircraft carrier.”

“And as we speak, it’s on fire,” Cooper told reporters.

Speaking alongside Cooper, Hegseth gave few details Thursday when he promised an upcoming surge.

“It’s more fighter squadrons, it’s more capabilities, it’s more defensive capabilities,” Hegseth said. “And it’s more bomber pulses more frequently.”

Iran targets country’s hosting U.S. forces

Qatar’s Defense Ministry reported early Friday it intercepted a drone attack targeting Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts the forward headquarters of the U.S. Central Command.

Saudi Arabia intercepted and destroyed three ballistic missiles fired early Friday toward Prince Sultan Air Base south of Riyadh, which hosts U.S. forces, said a spokesperson for Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense.

Air raid sirens sounded in Bahrain, where the Interior Ministry said Iranian strikes targeted two hotels and a residential building. It said there were no casualties. In Kuwait, where the six U.S. soldiers were killed Sunday, the Kuwaiti army said its air defenses were activated when missile and drone attacks breached Kuwait’s airspace.

Trump again urges Iranians to “take back” their country

In brief remarks at the White House on Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump again urged the Iranian people to “help take back your country.” This time he promised the U.S. would grant them “immunity” amid the war and ongoing dangers under the current Iranian regime.

“So you’ll be perfectly safe with total immunity,” Trump said, without giving any details about what that meant. “Or you’ll face absolutely guaranteed death.”

In an interview with the news website Axios, Trump said he should be involved in choosing Iran’s new supreme leader to replace Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the opening strikes of the war. Trump spoke dismissively of Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, being a front-runner to replace his father, calling him “a lightweight.”

“We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” Trump said.

Iranian official says there’s no trust to resume talks with U.S.

Iran has not requested talks with the U.S. to bring an end to the widening war, Iran’s ambassador to Egypt told the Associated Press on Thursday. Ambassador Mojtaba Ferdousi Pour denied comments by Trump that Iran wants to negotiate.

He said a lack of trust makes such engagement impossible after talks for a possible nuclear deal twice failed and ended with war.

“There will be no trust in Trump,” Ferdousi Pour said.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the U.S. Navy of committing “an atrocity at sea” for sinking the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean, killing at least 87 crew members.

The Iranian ship was returning from an exercise hosted by the Indian navy that the U.S. also joined. Sri Lankan authorities said 32 crew members were rescued. Araghchi said it had been carrying “almost 130” crew.

An Iranian cleric later called on state television for the shedding of both Israeli and “Trump’s blood.”

Israel hits Lebanon with multiple airstrikes around Beirut

Israel carried out at least 11 airstrikes late Thursday and early Friday, targeting the southern suburbs of Beirut. Fires broke out near a gas station.

The Israeli army issued a warning Thursday evening, urging residents to “save your lives and evacuate your homes immediately.” Two hospitals evacuated patients and staff. No casualties were immediately reported.

The Lebanese health ministry said the death toll has risen to 123 since the resurgence of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which struck Israel in the opening days of the war.

A spokesperson for the U.N. peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, Tilak Pokharel, said Thursday that peacekeepers had seen and heard clashes, including ground combat, in southern Lebanon as more Israeli forces have moved across the border.

___

Bynum reported from Savannah, Georgia, and Abou AlJoud from Beirut, Lebanon. AP journalists around the world contributed.