President Donald Trump has once again predicted an end to the Iran war as he headed to Dallas to rally Republicans ahead of November’s midterm elections.

Unsurprisingly he delivered a politically favorable prediction.  

‘I think the war’s going to immediately end after the election,’ Trump told reporters on Wednesday, because the Iranians ‘can’t hold out any longer.’

The comment comes as the unpopularity of the Iran war looms over the president’s party as it faces losing both the US House and Senate this fall. 

The Iran war has now lasted more than six months and claimed the lives of 18 American service members.

It has also  become the heaviest political weight his party carries. 

Sixty-eight percent of Americans disapprove of his handling of it, according to a UMass Amherst poll taken in late August.

An NBC News survey finished on September 1 put approval of Trump’s Iran policy at just 31 percent. 

A still image from undated archive footage released by Iranian media on August 24, 2026, shows Mojtaba Khamenei attending a meeting before he assumed the role of Iran’s Supreme Leader, at an unknown location

An Iranian crude oil carrier identified as M/T Riesco burns after being struck, which US Central Command says it targeted after attempted Iranian missile attacks on a US Navy warship over the past two days, at an unknown location in this still image taken from video released September 8, 2026

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It remains to be seen if Trump mentions the war in his convention speech later Wednesday.

In true Trumpian fashion, the president will speak both nights of the Dallas convention.

But the guest list tells its own story about Trump’s cratering popularity.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is not speaking, a snub that follows Trump’s frustration with the South Dakotan over stalled pieces of his agenda, even as other House and Senate leaders were handed slots.

Several candidates in the country’s most competitive races are also skipping the main stage, among them Maine’s Republican Senator Susan Collins, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson who is running for the US Senate in Iowa, and John E Sununu, the Republican nominee trying to flip New Hampshire’s Senate seat red.

Most prognosticators expect Democrats to win back the US House of Representatives, but the Senate will be tougher with battleground races in Maine, Ohio, Michigan and Alaska set to determine control.

Trump’s own trip to Texas was delayed Wednesday after his new Qatari-gifted Air Force One deployed its emergency evacuation slide.

Pressed on whether the aircraft was safe to fly, Trump responded: ‘Yeah, I am, or I wouldn’t be on it.’

Minutes after the oddity unfolded, the slide was reportedly seen being taken away from the new plane gifted to Trump from Qatar.

After speaking with the press for a prolonged period as the slide was being dealt with, the President boarded the plane as the cameras were still rolling. 

President Donald Trump steps off Air Force One on September 9th, 2026 at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Texas. Trump is traveling to Dallas to attend the first day of the 2026 Republican National Convention where he is scheduled to deliver the keynote address

Air Force personnel remove an emergency inflatable slide after it deployed on Air Force One before President Donald Trump arrived to board at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland

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Vice President JD Vance was pressed about the case of one Air Force widow at Thursday’s White House briefing, when a CNN reporter asked him to make sure the family received its benefits.

The widow of a US soldier killed in the Iran war shared online that she was told her family would miss out on combat benefits because the Pentagon, under Pete Hegseth’s leadership, does not officially classify the conflict as a war.

Libby Klinner said that when she questioned her husband’s final paycheck, the officer assigned to support her after his death told her the family would not receive hazard pay or combat-related tax breaks because ‘we were not at war.’

Her husband, Major Alex Klinner, 33, died on March 12 when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq while supporting US operations against Iran. The Alabama-based airman served with the 99th Air Refueling Squadron and was among six crew members killed in the crash.

He left behind three young children; a two-year-old son and twins who were seven months old when he died.

The couple married in 2019, with Libby moving to the Pacific Northwest for his job before they relocated to Birmingham, Alabama, in 2022.

‘My husband lost his life because we’re in a war,’ she told the Associated Press. ‘It all comes down to principle.’

After her statement circulated online, the Air Force contacted her again and said it had itemized her husband’s benefits incorrectly, and that combat pay and tax exclusions were in fact included.

Klinner said officials acknowledged on Thursday they had provided her inaccurate information and confirmed she had received everything her husband was owed.

Vance asked for Klinner’s name and promised the administration would contact her directly after the briefing.

‘We want to be as helpful as we can and ensure she gets everything that she is entitled to,’ he said.

Elsewhere in the briefing, Vance disputed calling the Iran conflict a war, saying there was ‘no active shooting’, although he acknowledged places where fighting had flared up.

Senior commanders warned Hegseth that prolonged Iran operations could weaken US defenses elsewhere, including at home, the Washington Post reported last week.

Chad Scatchard and Max Scott launched Elegant Projects Ltd earlier this year, offering renovations, extensions and full refurbishments across Thirsk, Northallerton and surrounding areas.

In just a few months, the pair have secured enough work to fill their schedule until late 2026 and have opened their first office in Thirsk.

Mr Scatchard said: “People sadly expect tradespeople to cut corners or take the easy route.

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“We’re proving that wrong on every job.

“Max and I have complementary skills, what one of us spots, the other checks.

“Nothing gets missed.”

Mr Scott, who grew up in the construction industry, said their upbringing shaped the way they work.

He said: “We know what good work looks like, and we know what customers actually want – clear communication, no mess left behind, and the job done properly the first time.”

Unlike single-trade contractors, both men are multi-skilled, allowing them to manage entire projects in-house without the need for separate electricians, plasterers, or carpenters.

Their services cover everything from small building jobs to single-storey extensions and full property transformations.

A key part of their approach is transparency.

Elegant Projects offers fixed-price quotes with no hidden costs and places a strong emphasis on customer communication.

Mr Scatchard said: “We’ve had customers tell us they’ve never had builders communicate like we do.

“That shouldn’t be rare.

“It should be standard.”

Mr Scott credits his entrepreneurial spirit to his father, Stuart Scott, who built a business empire in the home improvement sector and has invested in their venture.

Mr Scott said: “My dad built a business up from nothing and he was my inspiration to do the same.”

However, the pair were determined to build something of their own.

Mr Scatchard said: “We wanted to prove we could do this ourselves, not because anyone doubted us, but because we needed to know we could build something from scratch.

“Every client we win, every project we complete, that’s ours and we’re proud of that.”

Elegant Projects Ltd is now exploring grant funding to expand into larger commercial projects.

The company is currently accepting new project enquiries for early 2027, though a recently hired building team has limited availability for 2026.

Their growth comes as the construction industry faces a chronic skills shortage.

The Construction Industry Training Board estimates that an additional 251,500 workers are needed by 2028 to meet national demand.

Joe Cole insists he’s ‘not been this excited’ about Chelsea ‘for a long time’ and has praised ‘unbelievable’ summer signing Morgan Rogers.

Cole’s former club finished just 10th in the Premier League last season, failing to qualify for any European competition and going through two permanent managers.

The potentially shrewd appointment of former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso over the summer improved the mood at Stamford Bridge, as did some high-profile signings.

Chelsea’s biggest signing of the summer was a stunning £117m deal for Morgan Rogers which made the England star the most expensive British player of all time.

Alonso’s side began the 2026-27 season with three successive wins, beating Fulham and Brighton in the Premier League and Luton Town in the Carabao Cup.

Chelsea suffered their first defeat of the season at the weekend, losing 2-1 to reigning champions Arsenal, but responded with a thrilling 6-3 win over Leeds United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

An impressive start to the season has left Cole hugely ‘excited’ about Chelsea’s potential, with the Blues boasting ‘as good’ a front-three as anyone in the Premier League.

‘I thought it was a sensational game,’ Cole said on talkSPORT when asked about Chelsea’s narrow defeat to Arsenal. ‘I’ve not been this excited about a Chelsea team for a long time.

‘The front-three are blistering… I knew Morgan Rogers was a top player but he’s been unbelievable. He’s so powerful and the energy to get into the box from midfield is fantastic.

‘Chelsea didn’t have much possession against Arsenal but they look like they can carve teams open at any moment. There’s still problems defensively but I’m just excited.

‘If you add Moises Caicedo into that team at the weekend, I think Chelsea get something out of the game.

‘Our front-three now is as good as anything in the Premier League and that’s the first time in a long time I’ve been able to say that.’

Chelsea were on course for a disappointing Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Leeds, who took a 2-0 lead at Stamford Bridge through Tarik Muharemovic and Brenden Aaronson.

The family of cyclist Iain McTavish have paid tribute to the 46-year-old after he was killed in a crash on the A8, in a crash that injured three others.

The family of a cyclist killed in a horror crash while out training with teamates on the A8 have paid tribute to a “much loved” man who was a highly accomplished rider.

Iain McTavish, 46, died after a collision involving a blue Ford C-Max Zetec and three cyclists on the westbound carriageway between the Langbank and Woodhead roundabouts at around 7.10pm on Tuesday, September 8.

Emergency services attended but Iain, who was riding one of the bicycles, was pronounced dead at the scene.

His devastated family said he had studied at Glasgow University, where he gained an MA honours and Masters in Philosophy.

They said Iain was also a “very active cyclist” who competed in events across Scotland and was “much loved” by those who knew him.

In a statement released by Police Scotland, they said: “Iain studied at Glasgow University and gained an MA honours and Masters in Philosophy.

“He was a very active cyclist who competed in events throughout Scotland.

“He was much loved and a valuable member of the community. I will miss him every day.”

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Iain was a member of Johnstone Wheelers Cycling Club and had been out on a training ride with fellow cyclists when the crash happened.

His death has also prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Scotland’s cycling community.

Johnstone Wheelers described Iain as “one of cycling’s good guys” following the tragedy.

The club shared a photograph of Iain taking part in a group ride just days before his death.

In a social media tribute, they said: “Today we’re all reeling from the awful news yesterday. Iain McTavish was killed yesterday evening whilst riding with the bunch.

“This will take a long time to sink in and process, but for now suffice it to say that we are devastated at the loss of one of cycling’s good guys. Here he is at the forefront of the Thursday bunch. RIP Iain”

Scottish Cycling also paid tribute to the 46-year-old, describing him as a “vital member” of the community and a “stalwart” of the Renfrew bunch and Georgetown TTs.

The organisation said Iain had attended every round of Track League last year and had also served as rider representative on its committee.

They described him as a “reliable and friendly face” who could always be counted on to turn up for a ride.

Two other male cyclists, aged 37 and 27, were taken to hospital following the collision.

The 33-year-old male driver of the Ford C-Max was also taken to hospital but has since been released.

Police Scotland said enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the crash.

Sergeant Jack Swindells said: “Our thoughts are with Iain’s family at what is an extremely difficult time for them.

“Enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances and we are continuing to appeal to anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward.

“If you were driving in the area at the time, please check any dash-cam footage to see if it has captured anything which could assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 2967 of Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

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A Cambridge care worker has opened up about his emotional experience on Channel 4’s The Jury

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A Cambridge care worker has revealed the huge pressure he faced after finding himself at the centre of Channel 4’s gripping murder trial experiment.

James, 29, was chosen to sit on the jury in the latest series of The Jury – and ended up taking on the added responsibility of becoming its foreperson. Rather than spending his days looking after people, James was placed in a mock courtroom environment and asked to consider evidence in a recreated murder trial alongside fellow members of the public.

The experience became particularly challenging when the group had to leave the courtroom and decide what verdict they believed was justified. James has now described the deliberations as some of the hardest the programme has seen.

Speaking to Cambridge Live, he said it was one of the toughest deliberations the show had seen across its previous two seasons, admitting that the jury found it extremely difficult to reach an agreement.

James was also given an important role within the group after being voted in as the jury’s foreperson. That meant the Cambridge contestant had the responsibility of helping guide discussions while also making sure every member had the opportunity to give their view.

The case featured in the latest series involves two brothers accused of killing their stepfather following allegations of abuse and violence within the family. The names of the defendants have been changed for the programme, with the teenage brother known as Daniel and his older brother as Luke.

Among the evidence the jury were given, included the chaotic and untidy condition the children were living in, which appeared to be a sensitive subject for jury member James.

He admitted that the trial was “close to home” as he said: “It was way more intense than I ever imagined, because it was really close to home.

“Obviously minus the crime, because I’m not a murderer, but I went through a lot of the things that the kids went through at home before they actually committed the act. Obviously, not to the extent.”

He went on: “However, it was a very visceral and surreal experience for me because it took me back to places I hadn’t been for a long time and sort of boxed away. But actually, at the same time, it was liberating.”

James added that the experience forced him to confront personal issues he had previously kept hidden, but said he ultimately learned a great deal about himself. Despite how intense he found the process, he described taking part as a “really, really good experience.”

You can stream the new season of The Jury on Channel 4

Another twist in the ongoing saga between the King, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has unfolded today

Uganda has pulled out of Prince Harry’s Invictus Games as a ‘consequence’ of the King’s cutting letter on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s royal status, a source has claimed.

On Monday ‘guidance’ was issued by Buckingham Palace on behalf of the King, declaring the couple have not returned to the UK as working royals.

A spokesperson for the Sussexes hit back at the announcement, claiming: “We were a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance” with the publication of the letter said to be catching the returning Sussexes off-guard.

Now Uganda will no longer be taking part in the Games, the country’s military chief has said, out of respect for King Charles amid division over the “Harry-Meghan nonsense”, reports the Mirror.

However, a source close to the Sussex’s camp told ITV: “Intended or unintended, this is clearly a consequence of the Lord Chamberlain’s guidance regarding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that was rushed out without consultation on Monday.

“Sadly, the only people who will suffer are the Invictus Games competitors.”

The withdrawal was announced on social media by Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of the Ugandan president.

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He wrote: “In order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whom we deeply revere, Uganda hereby withdraws from the Invictus Games. We shall not participate in anything that does not have His Majesty’s approval.”

Speaking to The Times, General Kainerugaba he made the decision to withdraw from the Games due to his support for King Charles.

He said: “I have factions in the Ministry of Defence that support that Harry-Meghan nonsense. I had to quash it straight away. I support the monarch. Period.”

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On Monday the King issued a letter to “senior stakeholders” where he made it clear – despite being back in the UK – his son and Meghan should be considered “private citizens”.

In a firm letter statement on his behalf, it stated the Sussexes’ should not use their HRH styles, which are still in abeyance, and they “do not represent the sovereign” while out making public appearances.

It was sent under the King’s instruction by his most senior official, the Lord Chamberlain, to offer clarity over Harry and Meghan’s royal status after requests for guidance. It has been sent to those in government, the military and lord lieutenants up and down the country.

Leading up to the Sussexes’ return to Britain, the King was said to be glad to be able to spend more time with the family, but remained adamant they would not be working royals and there was no half-in, half-out option.

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Martin Lewis’s charity has launched a new project aimed at transforming the support banks and building societies provide to customers who may be feeling suicidal.

The Money and Mental Health Policy Institute stated it will support Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, Monzo and Nationwide Building Society in collaborating to test new approaches, aiming to identify effective methods and lead improvements in support.

The announcement was timed to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day.

The organisation highlighted that banks have a crucial opportunity because of their unique insights into personal finances, allowing them to step in when customers face debt issues or falling incomes.

The “action lab” will utilise insights from individuals, research by Money and Mental Health, and guidance from a steering group including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Money and Mental Health will publish the full outcomes of these pilot schemes in the summer of 2028.

Mr Lewis, founder and chair of the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, said: “The link between mental health difficulties and debt is a marriage made in hell – they feed off and cause each other.

“Long-term money worries grind people down, and aggressive debt collection practices can leave them feeling completely hopeless.

“Banks didn’t cause all these problems, but they are in a unique central position in people’s financial lives, and we want to see if it’s possible to take advantage of that to be able to spot when customers are in trouble and urgently direct them to the right support.

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“So I’m delighted and thankful so many major banks have committed to working with Money and Mental Health on our new suicide prevention action lab.”

Mr Lewis added: “We aim to get under the bonnet with banks to find the gaps, test new ways to identify and support people in crisis, and drive change not just with those who’ve signed up but right across the sector – and potentially save lives.”

Economic Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby said: “Financial worries and mental health challenges too often go hand in hand.

“I have seen first-hand how the industry can make a real difference to people’s lives through concerted action and I am very hopeful that this excellent project will help us find new ways to support people before they reach crisis point.”

Alison McGovern, Minister of State for Mental Health, said: “The suicide prevention action lab has the potential to make a real difference in identifying and supporting vulnerable people who are at risk of suicide, and save many lives over the coming years.”

The Samaritans charity, which offers support to people who are struggling, said earlier this week it wanted to let people know that suicidal thoughts “can be interrupted” by other people – and that rather than being concerned with saying “the perfect thing”, it is better just ask if someone is okay.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you

As Venus moves staunchly into Scorpio, and Mercury into Libra, Uranus also begins its retrograde; much of the cosmos is spiced up.

Cancer, Leo and Virgo, intrigue is firmly on the cards today. The creative energy is flowing for you, so take this chance to do great things.

Don’t be ruffled by any changes, big or small. The panets are ready to shake things up, so let them.

Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Thursday September 10, 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 order your unique personal horoscope based on your time, date and place of birth, visit patrickarundell.com.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

It’s all change in the heavens today, as Venus dives deep into Scorpio, and Mercury replacing her in the level-headed, Libra. And to add a bit more razzle dazzle to the day, rebellious Uranus begins its annual retrograde. This can see you sharpen up your listening skills, Aries, but also yearning for a deeper connection or to escape a bond you’re not enjoying.

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

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Your eye for detail will be strong over the next few weeks, great if you want to grapple with outstanding paperwork or chores. Yet with your ruler, Venus moving into your opposite sign, your appreciation of the key people in your world will increase. Solo? With your sector of partnerships emphasised, this can see you more open to a new connection – if one calls out.

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

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

With your guide planet Mercury emerging from one of the tenderest parts of your chart into one of the most vibrant, you’ll likely feel a desire to re-ignite your social life, and can feel a sense of fun return, and perhaps mischief too. However, with Uranus starting to retrace its steps in Gemini from now, you might review some decisions you have made since April.

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

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

A big shift occurs today, and after a busy period, Mercury, the cosmic planet of talk and thought, retreats into a sheltered area and sees you drawn towards quieter mode. However, with the charming Venus in the mood for more social interaction, how will this play out? Well, you can link the two by enjoying creative, home-based hobbies or by enjoying playing host.

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

Leo

July 24 to August 23

You have been drawn to some interesting people in recent months, and as much as you may have enjoyed this, Uranus’s Retrograde can get you thinking more deeply about what you really want from your long-term future, and whether you have been deflected. With Venus arriving in the most homely of areas, time spent beautifying yours can also appeal.

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

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

One of the fantastic parts of having your ruler Mercury and the Sun in your sign is that it has enabled you to balance your drive and your thinking. With Mercury zipping into your sector of everyday finances, all the creative strands you have worked on can now be converted into something more tangible. Mind, if you have resisted change professionally, it may still come.

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

Libra

September 24 to October 23

With Mercury moving into your sign, as your ruler Venus moves out, your finances can take a welcome turn for the better. Why? Well, your thinking comes into the present and ideas that you’ve been developing on the back burner can start to gain traction. Most of all, if you believe you’re worthy of attracting better things, the greater the chance that you’ll get them.

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

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

Venus is the planet of relating and everyday money, which makes her role complex. However, recently she has been emphasising, if quietly, your connections to others. This may have led you to reconnect with an old friend or lover, or to end a tie that was making you unhappy. Today you can feel ready to step into your future. And you can also feel more alluring.

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

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

Uranus has been adding extra zest to relationships since April. This may have seen some sizzling connections, or a dull tie make way. This hasn’t only been in your love life, but if you have been thinking carefully about what to do with one intimate involvement, you’re set to reflect even deeper in the coming months. You may change your mind several times.

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

Capricorn

December 22 to January 21

Routines have been hard to come by since Uranus made its way into Gemini in April. Even you, who like structures, may have found yours disrupted. Still, with Uranus retrograding from now, you can look to make sense of this, and particularly around your work. It’s an ideal time to consider a training course or using past experiences in a new, fresh setting.

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

Aquarius

January 22 to February 19

Your analytical skills have been to the fore of late. This has given you an added perceptiveness, whether it has been weighing up people’s motives, or teasing out more value from your resources. However, with your modern ruler Uranus retracing his steps now, and Mercury hitting some fresh cosmic air, change calls out. Even your personal look is ripe for a refresh.

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

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

Do you stay or do you go? This could be where you live, where you work, or who you see. Unsettled energies may be in play, but equally, just breaking out of everyday routines could be just the pep you need, and with Venus moving into your sister water sign of Scorpio, a change of scene, specially somewhere that is different to your usual fare, can work wonders now.

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 September here.

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This time around, Odegaard looks smooth as silk – and it is no co-incidence Arsenal look exactly the same.

“This what we need,” said Arteta. “Players with that mindset to decide the game, to play with that personality and keep taking risks. He is getting into those positions much more in recent games. It was an incredible goal.”

In Naples, Odegaard not only settled the game but set the tone, working tirelessly as the perfect of example of leadership as well as being the match winner.

“Arsenal have obviously looked good at the start of the season and he has been a big reason for that,” added Onuoha. “Some of his creativity, especially on the right-hand side, has been excellent.

“He looks after the ball so well. He is always looking for that pass to be able to create opportunities and he even does the defensive work as well.”

Odegaard succeeded where other team-mates failed, Arsenal missing several clear-cut opportunities before he struck.

Arsenal‘s superiority was illustrated by having 26 shots, their most in a single Champions League match since records started being kept in 2003-04. It was also the most Napoli have faced in that time.

“Martin is contributing with goals that are impacting results which is what we want from our attacking players, being decisive,” said Arteta. “We should have done it in a different way because of the amount of chances we created.”

The Champions League has proved elusive for Arsenal, with finals lost to Barcelona in 2006 and to PSG last season.

It remains their Holy Grail – but if Odegaard maintains his brilliant form then their chances of crossing a so far insurmountable barrier will increase hugely.