The United States has burned through billions of dollars’ worth of its critical weapons stockpile in the war with Iran, according to a report. ​

The conflict, which began on February 28, has seen the Pentagon using more than 1,200 Patriot interceptor missiles, each of which costs more than $4 million.

The military has also used up around 1,100 of its long-range stealth cruise missiles stockpiled for a war with China, according to congressional officials and internal Defense Department estimates obtained by the New York Times.​

More than 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles have been fired, too, which is around 10 times the amount currently bought by the U.S. Military each year.

​Internal Pentagon estimates also suggested that around 1,100 JASSM-ER missiles, which cost around $1.1 million each, have been used. That has left just 1,500 of the projectiles in the military’s inventory. ​

“At current production rates, reconstituting what we have expended could take years,” Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, said this week.​

According to a study conducted in April by the American Enterprise Institute, the war has cost the United States between $25 billion and $35 billion. In the first two days of the conflict alone, the military burned through around $5.6 billion worth of munitions, a congressional source told The Hill in March. ​

Officials told The NYT that the Defense Department is still waiting for Congress to approve additional funding before it can pay manufacturers to replenish the military’s drained supplies. ​

The Trump administration announced in January that it had secured seven-year agreements with major defense contractors in order to increase production capacity for defense systems. That meant the defense manufacturers would agree to fund factory expansions in exchange for the long-term orders. ​

However, officials told the publication that there has been no effort to begin the expanded production effort since the Pentagon is still scrambling to find the funding it needs.

​“The United States has many munitions with adequate inventories, but some critical ground-attack and missile-defense munitions were short before the war and are even shorter now,” Mark F. Cancian, a retired Marine Corps colonel and a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, told The NYT. ​

Pentagon information obtained by the newspaper also found that the war has led to depletions in essential weapon systems deployed to defend NATO’s eastern flank in the event of Russian aggression. The ability to launch offensive operations in the region has also been damaged due to the loss of attack and surveillance drones.​

Operations in the Pacific have been reduced, too, with the USS Abraham Lincoln being moved from the South China Sea to the Middle East before the conflict began. A third aircraft carrier, the USS George HW Bush, has also been moved to the region.

Officials told the publication that Patriot missiles from the THAAD system in South Korea, which were deployed to curb the looming threat from North Korean missiles, are being moved away to support the war effort with Iran.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed in a statement given to The NYT that the “entire premise of this story is false.”​

“The United States of America has the most powerful military in the world, fully loaded with more than enough weapons and munitions, in stockpiles here at home and all around the globe, to effectively defend the homeland and achieve any military operation directed by the commander in chief,” she said.

The Independent has contacted the White House and the Department of Defense for comment.

Airlines worldwide have begun canceling flights as the war in the Middle East strains jet fuel supplies and pushes up prices — but the disruption doesn’t end there.

For travelers, it can mean having to navigate a confusing web of passenger protections that vary widely depending on where they’re flying.

And the timing is amplifying the impact.

“ These pressures are arriving at a time when summer travel demand is ramping up, with major events such as the World Cup expected to put additional strain on airports,” said Eric Napoli, chief legal officer at AirHelp, a company that helps travelers secure compensation for flight disruptions and advocates for passenger rights.

Here’s what to know if your flight is canceled.

Are these cancellations happening at the last minute?

In most cases, no. At least for now, fuel-related cuts are often being made days or weeks in advance. Lufthansa Group, for example, said this week it is cutting 20,000 short-haul flights across its network through October.

That gives you more time to adjust plans than you’d typically get with weather-related disruptions, which tend to trigger last-minute cancellations.

My flight was canceled. What should I do first?

Check your airline’s app or website immediately for rebooking options. If you’re flying on a U.S. carrier, that’s often the fastest and easiest way to secure a new seat, according to Tyler Hosford, security director at International SOS, a global risk management and travel security company.

Non-U.S. carriers tend to have fewer digital tools, Hosford said, so it’s worth trying multiple channels, including the airline’s customer service lines or airport desks.

Do I have the right to a refund or a new flight?

In most cases, yes. Airlines typically offer either a refund or a rebooking on the next available flight. The exact rules vary by country, but those are the baseline options you can expect.

In the U.S., for example, if your flight is canceled and you choose not to travel, the airline must refund you, regardless of the reason. Airlines may offer travel credits instead, but you’re entitled to a full refund for airfare and any extras you didn’t use, such as baggage fees or seat upgrades.

Are passenger rights the same everywhere?

No, and protections vary widely by region — from the Montreal Convention, which governs airline liability across more than 140 countries, to specific consumer protection laws in the U.S., Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Turkey and Brazil.

Europe has some of the strongest protections, including compensation in certain cases. And they apply to any flight departing from an EU airport, regardless of the airline, as well as to passengers flying on an EU-based carrier into the EU — even if the journey starts outside Europe. The United Kingdom maintains a similar framework.

The U.S. and Canada offer more limited protections. Policies vary widely across Asia, and in some cases travelers may need to rely more on airline policies than formal regulations.

To get a clearer picture, experts recommend searching the name of the country you’re departing from and “passenger rights” before your trip.

What protections apply?

It depends.

Airlines may cite fuel shortages or rising fuel costs as the reason for cancellations. But whether you’re entitled to compensation often comes down to if the disruption is considered within the airline’s control under local laws.

Regardless of the cause, Napoli said, airlines in the European Union, for example, still have a “duty of care,” meaning they must provide “necessary support” to travelers, including rebooking.

“While airlines are citing fuel shortages as a reason for upcoming cancellations, travelers need to know that this does not automatically waive their rights” under EU laws, Napoli said.

How can I prepare before a trip to avoid headaches?

A few steps can make disruptions easier to manage.

Sign up for flight alerts to stay informed, and book directly with the airline when possible — it’s much easier to resolve issues with the carrier directly than through a third-party booking site.

Knowing your options ahead of time and having a backup plan can make a significant difference if plans change.

What do I need for a claim or complaint?

Documentation is critical. Save everything: boarding passes, receipts, cancellation notices and any communication from the airline.

Take screenshots of app or website updates and any communication taking place online, and jot down key details from phone calls.

Napoli also recommends asking the airline for written confirmation of a flight disruption, including the stated reason.

Should I accept the first alternative flight the airline offers?

Not necessarily.

Experts say one of the most common mistakes travelers make is taking the first option without checking alternatives. Look at other flights, routes or even nearby airports because you may find a faster or more convenient way to reach your destination.

Can I book a different flight myself?

Yes, but proceed carefully.

If the airline’s rebooking option doesn’t meet your needs — especially if your new flight isn’t for several days — you can look for alternatives and request a refund instead.

Just be aware you may need to pay any fare difference up front, and you might not be reimbursed later.

Any other tips to avoid getting stuck?

— Book flights earlier in the day so you have more rebooking options if something goes wrong.

— Set up flight alerts through tracking apps such as Flighty to get early notice of cancellations or delays. In some cases, Hosford said, notifications arrive before the airline’s.

— Consider nearby airports as backup options.

— Be kind. Airline agents may be more willing to help when interactions stay calm and respectful.

“Ultimately, the shortage is squeezing the entire system, from travelers to airlines, and is something to watch as the industry looks for any relief ahead of the summer travel season,” Napoli said.

Many Scots are hoping that the warm weather will last as we near the end of April.

After long bouts of unpredictable weather, which can quickly switch throughout the day, many Scots will be making the most of today’s warm spell that sees many areas bake in 19C heat (April 24). While the Met Office is advising Scots to wear sun cream, some of us are wondering if this warmer weather will continue?

While the weather today may start a bit cooler for some, by 4pm Pitlochry, Glasgow and Cumnock are set to rise to just below 20C, making it perfect weather for Scots to dig out some of their summer clothes and head outside. This is followed closely behind by Fort William, Biggar, Stirling, and Helensburgh set to hit highs of 18C.

These toasty temperatures even make parts of Scotland hotter than a few holiday hotspots. According to the Met Office’s forecast, Barcelona in Spain and Malta’s capital Valletta are only set to rise to 18C.

Meanwhile, not all Scots will be able to enjoy a melting ice cream today as weather maps are reporting that the east coast will barely make it out of single figures. While Dundee is predicted to reach a high of 14C this afternoon, Aberdeen and Banff will still be on the chillier side at 11C – with Peterhead shockingly only rising to 9C.

Looking at today’s forecast for the UK, Met Office presenter and meteorologist Clare Nasir said: “Friday starts murky across parts of central and eastern England, with frost inland across Scotland and parts further south. However, low cloud and fog will clear through the morning, leading to another fine day. High pressure remains firmly in control across the UK.”

The looming question is whether this warm spell is set to continue or if Scots will need to keep their warmer jackets at the ready for another chilly spell? According to the national forecaster, the week ahead looks to be a mixed bag.

Looking towards the weekend, deputy chief forecaster Steven Keates warns that rainy conditions are on the horizon for some Scots. He said: “High pressure will remain broadly in charge of the UK’s weather for the remainder of this week and into the weekend.

“Most places will remain dry with a fair amount of sunshine too. As is often the case, there are a few exceptions, with cloudier conditions for some at times and patchy rain possible for northern Scotland later in the weekend, so keep an eye on the forecast as the week progresses.

“In the sunshine, we’re expecting temperatures to steadily climb, likely peaking in the low twenties on Friday and over the weekend. Onshore breezes will keep some coastal areas somewhat cooler. And gardeners beware, where skies are clear and winds light overnight, a patchy frost is also likely.”

While Glasgow is set to reach a high of 16C on Sunday, April 26, the rest of the country is only predicted to rise to 13C to 14C by late afternoon. However, temperatures are set to remain steady throughout the night and into Monday morning, April 27, as mercury sits at around 8C for most.

As the week progresses however, temperatures are predicted to rise. By Wednesday, April 29, the west coast of Scotland is once again expected to rise to 19C in Oban and Fort William. While Ullapool and Aberlour are predicted to enjoy 18C, temperatures are to be slightly lower in Perth and Edinburgh, which will reach 15C.

These toasty temperatures are then predicted to rise again on Thursday, April 30, with a wide spread of Scotland sitting just below 20C by the afternoon. While clear skies also predicted, Scots will be able to take the chance to enjoy an evening stroll as the toasty temperatures continue.

However, much like this week’s forecast, the east coast does not seem to be enjoying the rising mercury just yet. While Dundee and Peterhead are predicted to improve to a slightly milder temperature of 14C, Aberdeen is still seen to sit at 12C. However, the forecast could still change, so Scots on the east coast may experience warmer spells.

As we enter into May, the temperatures are once again seen to dip slightly to 15C around midday. While this may not be the consistent warmer weather that many Scots were hoping for, everyone will be in agreement that it is far better than the chillier winter dips.

However, while this soaring heat is a welcomed change, it does come with a warning.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildfire Forum have warned of an “extreme” risk of wildfire, especially in the west of Scotland. This alert spans from Friday until Sunday, with the fire service urging people to avoid lighting outdoor fires across the country to keep the public, nature and wildlife safe.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour, the fire service head of prevention and chairman of the forum, said: “Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions.

“People living in the impacted areas should avoid lighting outdoor fires and be mindful that one spark can spread, causing a large amount of damage. Remember, there’s no such thing as a harmless fire.”

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, he said: “When normally good, honest people come in and they’re buying their shopping and it doesn’t scan, and there’s nobody manning the checkouts, they’re saying: ‘It’s not my fault and I don’t have much time so if I can’t get my strawberries through, I’ll just put them in my basket’.”

The US could review Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands as punishment for a lack of support in Donald Trump’s war on Iran.

The potential review was leaked in an internal Pentagon email, which outlined outlined options to punish NATO allies, who the US president has repeatedly hit out at for their response to the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East.

Among the options reportedly under consideration was a re-evaluation of the US position on Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands and also the suspension of Spain from the alliance.

These policy considerations are detailed in a confidential memo, which expresses significant frustration over certain allies’ perceived reluctance or outright refusal to grant Access, Basing, and Overflight (ABO) rights essential for the Iran conflict.

The official, who spoke anonymously to describe the email, stated that ABO is “just the absolute baseline for Nato,” adding that these options are circulating at high levels within the Pentagon.

Further proposals within the email envision the suspension of “difficult” countries from important or prestigious positions within the Nato framework.

These revelations emerge as Donald Trump has previously criticised Nato allies for failing to deploy their navies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, which became inaccessible to global shipping following the commencement of the air war on 28 February.

He has also openly considered withdrawing from the alliance, asking Reuters in an 1 April interview, “Wouldn’t you if you were me?” when questioned about the possibility of a US pull-out.

But the email does not suggest that the United States do so, the official said. It also does not propose closing bases in Europe.

The official declined to say whether the options included a widely expected US drawdown of some forces from Europe, however.

Asked for comment on the email, Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson responded: “As President Trump has said, despite everything that the United States has done for our Nato allies, they were not there for us.

“The War Department will ensure that the President has credible options to ensure that our allies are no longer a paper tiger and instead do their part. We have no further comment on any internal deliberations to that effect,” Wilson said.

The US-Israeli war with Iran has raised serious questions about the future of ​the 76-year-old bloc and provoked unprecedented concern that the US might not come to the aid of European allies should they be attacked, analysts and diplomats say.

Britain, France and others say that joining the US naval ​blockade would amount to entering the war, but that they would be willing to help keep the Strait open once there was a lasting ceasefire or the conflict ended.

But Trump administration officials have stressed that Nato cannot be a one-way street.

They have expressed frustration with Spain, where the Socialist leadership said it ​would not allow its bases or airspace to be used to attack Iran. The United States has two important military bases in Spain: Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base.

The policy options outlined in the email would be intended to send a strong signal to Nato allies with the goal of “decreasing the sense of entitlement on the part of the Europeans,” the official said, summarising the email.

The option to suspend Spain from the alliance would have a limited effect on US military operations but a significant symbolic impact, the email argues.

The official did not disclose how the United States might pursue suspending Spain from the alliance, and Reuters could not immediately determine whether there was an existing mechanism at Nato to do so.

“We do not work off emails. We work off official documents and government positions, in this case of the United States,” Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez said when asked about the report ahead of a meeting of European Union leaders in Cyprus to discuss topics including Nato’s mutual assistance clause.

The memo also includes an option to consider reassessing US diplomatic support for longstanding European “imperial possessions,” such as the Falkland Islands near Argentina.

The State Department’s website states that the islands are administered by the United Kingdom but are still claimed by Argentina, whose Libertarian President Javier Milei is a Trump ally.

Britain and Argentina fought a brief war in 1982 over the islands after Argentina made a failed bid to take them. Some 650 Argentine soldiers and 255 British troops died before Argentina surrendered.

Trump has repeatedly insulted Prime Minister Keir Starmer, calling him cowardly because of his unwillingness to join the US war with Iran, ​saying he was “No Winston Churchill” and describing Britain’s aircraft carriers as “toys.”

Britain initially did not grant a request from the US to allow its aircraft to attack Iran from two British bases, but later ​agreed to allow defensive missions aimed at protecting residents of the region, including British citizens, amid Iranian retaliation.

Addressing reporters at the Pentagon earlier this month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said “a lot has been laid bare” by the war with Iran, noting that Iran’s longer-range missiles cannot hit the United States but can reach Europe.

“We get questions, or roadblocks, or hesitations … You don’t have much of an alliance if you have countries that are not willing to stand with you when you need them,” Hegseth said.

Step back in time and relive the 80s and 90s this weekend.

Ant and Dec at Kiss nightclub, Bolton in July, 1994. Picture by the Bolton Evening News (Image: NQ)

The Georgian House in Blackrod is putting on the themed night on Saturday night to run into Sunday.

Dust off your neon leg warmers and acid-washed jeans for a night filled with the greatest hits frm the 80s and 90s and enjoy a nostaligic trip down memory lane.

The party starts at 7pm and ends at 1am.

For tickets and more information visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/80s-and-90s-night-tickets-1978826805243?

The Angry Brigade (Image: Agency)

THEATRE

The Angry Brigade is set in 1970s Britain during a period of Tory cuts, high unemployment, and increasing inequality, focusing on the hunt for the anarchist group “The Angry Brigade” by a special police squad.

The play contrasts the contrasting perspectives of the establishment and the young urban guerrillas, exploring themes of political engagement, rebellion, and the human cost of pursuing a radical vision for a fairer world.

The play for those aged 14 and over will show on Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2 at the Octagon.

For tickets visit the Octagon website.

Eagley Band (Image: Supplied)

CONCERT

Music from some of the best-known musicals ever is on offer when Eagley Community Band and Eagley Community Choir stage their Spring Concert this Saturday (April 25).

Expect everything from Miss Saigon, to Anything Goes, and Gershwin and Matt Monro to Bon Jovi and Mariah Carey at the event at The Bridge Church, Bradford Street Bolton.

There will be plenty of audience participation at Eagley at the Bridge which runs from 7.30pm to 9.45pm with refreshments available.

Tickets are £5 each from Booth’s Music on Churchgate in the town centre, tel 01204 522908 or pay at the door.

Mass Observation Please note copyright credit requested by BoltonCouncil (Image: Bolton Council)

TALK:

Talk on Mass Observation in Blackpool.

In the 1930s, Blackpool was Britain’s most popular seaside resort, attracting thousands of millworkers from Bolton and other Lancashire cotton towns.

The strange and wonderful world of 1930s Blackpool is captured in the photographs of Humphrey Spender and Julian Trevelyan, taken for Mass Observation.

This talk explores what Mass Observation discovered when they followed local holidaymakers to Blackpool.

It will take place oin Tuesday 5 May, 1 pm in the Lecture Theatre, Bolton Central Library

Free, no need to book

Funfair (Image: Unsplash)

FUNFAIR

A children’s fun fair will set up at Bolton Cricket Club on Green Lane this weekend, April 25 and 26, open daily from 1pm till 7pm all rides £2.

Trigger warning: This article contains discussion of topics including self-harm and suicide.

EastEnders fans were left in tears after a devastating visit to Walford on Thursday (April 23), which saw Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) sectioned after attempt to take his own life.

The popular character has been struggling with his mental health for months, with Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) determined to get him the help he needs after she discovered that he had been self-harming.

The situation escalated rapidly earlier this week when Ravi – convinced that his enemies were out to get him – obtained new locks for the flat he shares with his partner and their kids Nugget (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) and Avani (Aaliyah James).

Priya was concerned when Ravi wouldn’t let her leave, as were Avani and Nugget when they stumbled upon the new locks.

Ravi broke down when confronted over the bruises on Priya’s arm, which he’d unknowingly inflicted during a nightmare, and he subsequently confirmed that he was the one who accidentally attacked Nugget.

With emotions at an all-time high, Priya successfully managed to secure her freedom by telling Ravi that they’d leave Walford together but a crash ensued on the way to the hospital, leaving everyone in need of medical attention.

Ravi was devastated and thus he left the hospital and made his way back to the Square, where he stood on the edge of a bridge, attempting to take his own life.

Priya watched in devastation before attempting to talk Ravi down, making him see that he is still very much loved. Nugget, meanwhile, raced to support his dad, begging him ‘don’t go’ in emotional scenes.

Ravi reconsidered and broke down, hugging his loved ones with all his might. The police subsequently arrived and sectioned Ravi, who will next week receive a diagnosis of complex PTSD.

The episode in question received praise from fans, particularly the performance from Ravi star Aaron Thiara, who was nothing short of incredible.

Metro reader Sharon saying that they ‘actually cried’ when watching the episode. ‘He is a great actor, and its a great storyline, mens mental health isnt addressed enough.’

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Olwyn added: ‘This had me in tears. So real’, while Linda said: ‘This has broke my heart to watch, brilliant acting by Ravi and his family.’

‘The acting by Aaron Thiara was exceptional,’ said Barbara. ‘The emotional scenes showing Ravi’s mental health battle had me in tears’.

Debbie felt that the episode proves that ‘EastEnders has ‘really lifted their game’.

‘The storylines are great and shows the versatility of the actors,’ they wrote. ‘Seeing this side of Ravi is upsetting and a true representation of a person struggling.’

It was a sentiment that Anne agreed with, commenting: ‘Its great this storyline allowed the actor to show his talent. Not an easy part to play and must have been extremely difficult and draining for him.’

Next week, Ravi will begin therapy sessions following his diagnosis.

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. 

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MORE: EastEnders confirms unexpected comeback as character from murder story returns after 4 years

MORE: Max and Cindy grow closer in EastEnders after a shockingly violent incident

MORE: Priya fears the worst as broken Ravi takes to a bridge in EastEnders

The police had ‘damning evidence’ against the 26-year-old

A man who supplied drugs in different counties has been jailed. Artur Shabani, 26, was at his home in High Street, Eye, when Cambridgeshire Police searched his property on March 2.

Officers had received information about cocaine being supplied to South Lincolnshire and Rutland, and an operation was being run from Eye. At his home, officers found nine mobile phones in Shabani’s bedroom, as well as a small amount of cocaine and drug dealing paraphernalia elsewhere in the property.

Mobile phone analysis revealed bulk messages related to selling cocaine. The investigation also uncovered CCTV evidence that showed Shabani topping up one of the dealer phones, which was an unregistered pay-as-you-go device.

On Tuesday (April 21), Shabani was jailed to 36 months in prison after appearing at Cambridge Crown Court. He admitted to being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

DC Jenny Hargreaves said: “The evidence against Shabani was damning, giving him little option but to plead guilty. I’m pleased he has been brought to justice, and this county lines operation selling cocaine in Rutland and South Lincolnshire disrupted.

“County lines can often be linked to other offences such as criminal exploitation and the substances they deal trap people in addiction. We will continue our efforts to identify those involved in supplying drugs and bring them before the courts.”

Do you want more of the latest Cambridgeshire news as it comes in from across the county? Sign up to our dedicated newsletter to make sure you never miss a big story from Cambridge or anywhere else in the county. You can also sign up to our dedicated Traffic and Crime newsletters for the latest updates on the topics you are most interested in.

In a message on X via the official supporters’ club,, external Millwall said the “serious misuse of a registered club badge” created a “false and damaging image of the club”.

Millwall said the council confirmed any remaining copies of the booklet they have will be destroyed and no more copies will be made and distributed.

“The club is still considering its legal position on the matter and are unable to comment further,” it said.

The Paul Canoville Foundation said it was aware of the image, which was widely shared on social media, but stressed it had no involvement in the material’s content, saying it was “not produced by, commissioned by, or approved” by the foundation or Canoville.

“Our involvement in the associated programme was limited solely to Paul’s personal appearance; meeting students and sharing his lived experience,” the foundation’s chief executive officer Raphael Frascogna said in a statement., external

“At no stage were we shown, consulted on, or asked to approve the content of the booklet, including any illustrations within it.”

Frascogna added the illustration does depict a real incident Canoville experienced when playing for Chelsea reserves against Millwall reserves in the 1980s, “in which he was subjected to serious racial abuse by a number of individuals wearing Ku Klux Klan-style white hoods”.

Former winger Canoville, now 64, played for Chelsea for five years from 1981 and scored 15 goals in 103 games, later retiring because of a knee injury aged 25 after a short spell at Reading.

Millwall are third in the Championship this season, level on points with second-placed Ipswich, who are in the automatic promotion places.