Senior Labour leader Andy Burnham has confirmed he will contest the leadership race to succeed Keir Starmer as Prime Minister and party chief. Starmer announced his resignation on Monday amid growing internal pressure.
In a statement on X, Burnham said, “His decision marks the beginning of a transition… I will put myself forward as part of this process.” He stressed the need for stability and focus on economic growth, cost of living, public services, and housing. Burnham, seen as the frontrunner, has already received support from former Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period.
His decision marks the beginning of a transition and it is important that this process is conducted in an orderly and responsible way. I will…
— Andy Burnham (@AndyBurnhamGM) June 22, 2026
JD Vance says Iran talks lay foundation for final deal
US Vice President JD Vance said marathon talks with Iranian officials in Switzerland have laid a “good foundation for a successful final deal” to end the war. Both sides agreed to a 60-day roadmap, with technical discussions continuing. Vance also proposed using any unfrozen Iranian assets to buy American agricultural products (soy, corn, wheat) under US-Qatar oversight to benefit Iranian people while supporting US farmers.
Qatar gas plant explosion kills 13, leaves several missing
At least 13 people were killed and 54 injured after a powerful explosion and fire at the Barzan gas supply facility in Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City. Eighteen people remain missing. QatarEnergy said the incident occurred during start-up operations and the fire has been brought under control. India expressed solidarity with Qatar and issued helpline numbers for the Indian community.
Ukrainian strike on Russian city of Voronezh kills five
Ukrainian missiles struck Russia’s southwestern city of Voronezh on Monday and killed five people, as Kyiv said it had hit a plant making key components for Iskander and other missiles. “Five people were killed as a result of the missile attack on the city. Several dozen people sought medical attention, but most have already been sent home after receiving medical care,” regional governor Alexander Gusev said on Telegram.
(With AFP, IANS, ANI, and PTI inputs)
