Is The Strait Of Hormuz Actually Open (Or Shut) Right Now?

The UK government faces a crisis of competence and integrity following revelations that Peter Mandelson did not receive full security vetting before his diplomatic appointment. While ministers maintain the Prime Minister was misled, senior official Olly Robbins is expected to testify that established protocols for managing known risks were followed. Simultaneously, Iran’s strategic weaponization of the Strait of Hormuz creates a long-term economic threat, as the "horizontal escalation" of maritime interference impacts global oil prices and food security through disrupted fertilizer supplies. Domestically, the political focus shifts to the "Mega May" elections in Scotland, where the SNP aims for an unprecedented fifth term amidst a volatile electorate. The emergence of the Reform party in Scotland’s central belt, targeting immigration concerns, further complicates traditional party dynamics, suggesting that the path to Westminster power remains heavily dependent on shifting Scottish voter sentiment.