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The ongoing Iran war has led to a surge in petrol and diesel prices, sparking concerns about fuel rationing across Europe and calls for Britain to increase North Sea oil and gas production. However, experts suggest that a more effective solution lies in promoting electric vehicles (EVs). According to analysis by Mandala Partners, if the UK had the same proportion of electric cars as Norway, its fuel reserve could increase by seven days. Currently, the UK has about three weeks' worth of car fuel in reserve. Norway leads the world with nearly 32% of its cars being fully electric, compared to 5.4% in the UK. Even with the existing number of electric and hybrid cars on British roads, they are already saving about two days' worth of fuel. This is particularly significant given that Shell's chief executive, Wael Sawan, has warned that Europe could face fuel shortages as early as April if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. The potential impact of EVs goes beyond just reducing petrol and diesel consumption. Every electric car charged from the grid rather than the pump extends the country's fuel reserves. Moreover, with the right technology, EVs could become an active buffer against future energy shocks by storing and resharing energy. Vehicle-to-grid technology, which allows EVs to send energy back into the power grid, could make a significant difference in an energy supply crisis. An electric car usually holds about 40 kilowatt-hours of power, enough for an average UK home for several days. This technology could enable millions of car batteries to supply power to the grid when demand spikes. Despite these benefits, the adoption of EVs and vehicle-to-grid technology faces challenges. Tax policy is a significant barrier, as EV owners pay tax on electricity when filling their car battery and again when selling it back to the grid. Additionally, the hardware for two-way charging is not yet widely available, although many electric cars are already capable of it. The energy regulator Ofgem has suggested that if half of the expected 11m EVs on UK roads by 2030 were capable of two-way charging, they could send 16 gigawatts of power back to the grid each day, almost half the output of Britain's gas-power station fleet.

For British runner Josh Kerr, the moment that makes the hairs on his neck tingle every time he watches it is Roger Bannister's historic achievement in 1954 – becoming the first person to break the four-minute mile barrier. Now, Kerr intends to stand on the shoulders of track and field's giants by attempting to break the world mile record himself at the London Diamond League in July."This record needs to be brought home," Kerr declares. "This is a British record. This is a British distance. And so it would be doing a disservice to the UK to not be doing it at home. It's why I can't do it anywhere else."The 28-year-old faces a significant challenge. The world record of 3:43.13 was set by Hicham El-Guerrouj in July 1999, while Kerr's best is a shade over two seconds slower. However, with focused training, a new shoe from sponsor Brooks, the support of his 16-strong entourage and 60,000 fans at the London Stadium, Kerr believes he can break the long-standing record."People [say:] 'The sport needs more rivalries,'" Kerr explains. "I don't agree. I think the sport needs more moments. We need a reason to watch. And so that's where this comes from. This is the time to go after these big moments. I have a big target of what time I want to hit. I think it's going to be pretty special."Kerr's credentials are impeccable. He is a world 1500m champion and an Olympic silver and bronze medalist over the same distance. Last weekend, he further demonstrated his form by winning the world indoor title over 3,000m for a second time."I've been in shape to run the record multiple times over the last couple of years," Kerr states. "And so there's specific key sessions, we will have KPIs [key performance indicators] going into it."To achieve his goal, Kerr plans to focus on running between 55 and 56 seconds pace for each of the four laps. "There's a lot of muscle memory with stuff, and so we'll do a lot of training at pace," he explains. "We're three or four months in deep into the mental training of it. There's a lot going on behind the scenes already. The whole season is towards this."While Kerr has his pacemakers "signed, sealed and delivered," he insists this will be a proper Diamond League race rather than a time trial. "There will be some restrictions," he says coyly when asked about potential rivals. "I'm not scared to race people. I think certain athletes will have obligations elsewhere. But it's not going to be a closed-off race."A crucial factor in Kerr's favor is the quality of his support team. "Danny's the mastermind behind everything," Kerr says of his coach Danny Mackey. "He's my head coach and team leader. Then you've got Julian, who's an assistant coach, and my wife, who helps with everything."The team also includes Kerr's mother as head physio, a "super-manager and assistant" called Nicole, a chiropractor, massage therapist, two strength and conditioning coaches, a performance and mental coach, a nutritionist, a full-time chef, and a videographer and social media assistant. Race agent Ray Flynn and management company Forte complete the 16-strong squad."I have a lot of respect for this record," Kerr concludes. "But I believe that I have the ability and the people around me that will help me get there. This record is one of the most important we have in track and field. The time is now. It's time for that record to be renewed."

Apple’s Lockdown Mode: Four Years of Zero Successful BreachesAfter almost four years since its launch, Apple has confirmed a significant milestone in consumer cybersecurity: no user with Lockdown Mode enabled has been successfully hacked with mercenary spyware. In a statement to TechCrunch, Apple spokesperson Sarah O'Rourke confirmed that the company is not aware of any successful attacks against devices protected by this feature, representing a four-year streak of effectiveness against some of the most sophisticated state-sponsored hacking tools in existence.The Architecture of Resistance: How Lockdown Mode WorksLockdown Mode is an opt-in security feature designed to harden Apple devices against exploits that are typically used by state-sponsored actors. By restricting certain functionalities, the feature effectively shrinks the attack surface available to hackers.Feature Restrictions: It disables most message attachments and restricts WebKit features.Targeted Threats: It specifically counters exploits used by notorious spyware vendors like the NSO Group, Intellexa, and Paragon Solutions.Zero-Click Exploits: It blocks remote attack chains that do not require user interaction, such as zero-click exploits.Security experts, including Patrick Wardle, describe this as one of the most aggressive consumer-facing hardening features ever shipped. By eliminating entire delivery mechanisms, the feature forces spyware developers to use more complex and expensive techniques to bypass the defenses.The Zero-Breach MilestoneDespite Apple sending notifications to users in over 150 countries alerting them to potential hacking attempts, the data remains clear: Lockdown Mode has not been bypassed in any confirmed case. Independent investigations by organizations like Amnesty International and the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab have corroborated Apple's findings.Independent Verification: Amnesty International's Donncha Ó Cearbhaill confirmed no evidence of successful compromise where Lockdown Mode was active.Active Blocking: Citizen Lab documented instances where Lockdown Mode actively blocked attacks from NSO's Pegasus and Predator spyware.Evasion Tactics: Some spyware variants have been observed to abort attacks entirely if Lockdown Mode is detected, likely to avoid detection by security researchers.Shifting the Burden of Defense to the ConsumerThe success of Lockdown Mode marks a pivotal shift in the cybersecurity landscape. Historically, high-end security was the domain of governments and large corporations. Apple is now effectively forcing the burden of defense onto the individual consumer.While the feature requires users to accept a trade-off in usability—such as extra steps for copying links or occasional confusing notifications—the data suggests the trade-off is worth it for high-risk targets. The feature has successfully neutralized the most common vectors used by mercenary spyware, rendering them ineffective against the vast majority of attackers.The Future of Digital HardeningLooking ahead, the success of Lockdown Mode sets a new standard for consumer device security. As spyware vendors adapt to this new reality, we can expect a cat-and-mouse game where attackers attempt to find new vulnerabilities. However, for the foreseeable future, Lockdown Mode remains the gold standard for protecting individuals from state-sponsored digital intrusion.

Nepal's new prime minister, Balen Shah, has taken office after a landslide win in the recent elections. Shah, a rapper-turned-politician, leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which is expected to have a two-thirds majority in parliament. This mandate comes with high expectations from young Nepalis who drove the 2025 Gen Z protests against corruption, poor governance, and lack of accountability.The RSP, barely four years old, and Shah, with no prior political experience except as mayor of Kathmandu, have a historic opportunity to deliver on the aspirations of young Nepalis. However, analysts and voters warn that with this opportunity comes significant risks. Political analyst Bishnu Sapkota notes that expectations are enormous, and it may be unrealistic for Shah to fully meet them.One of Shah's immediate challenges will be implementing the findings of the Karki Commission, which investigated the killings and property damage during the Gen Z movement. The commission's report, submitted on March 8, 2026, is expected to be made public and implemented quickly. This will require careful management of political reactions and potentially difficult decisions.Another challenge Shah faces is the relationship between him and Rabi Lamichhane, the founder of the RSP. Lamichhane faces allegations of fraud, organized crime, and money laundering, and has previously served jail sentences. Experts describe their alliance as a 'marriage of convenience' and note that differences could emerge later.Shah's popularity was the main factor behind the RSP's success, and analysts suggest that he may end up having a stronger grip on the party than its president. RSP leader Shishir Khanal emphasizes that Shah will lead the government, while Lamichhane will lead the party, and both will have to face challenges and manage expectations on their own respective fronts.In the first 100 days, the RSP plans to prioritize anti-corruption measures, including investigations into the wealth of senior officials and politicians since 1990. These steps respond directly to the demands of last year's Gen Z protests. Gen Z activist Yujan Rajbhandari notes that the new government must prioritize good governance and protect civic freedoms, or face pushback from the same movement that enabled its rise.Shah's critics have questioned his diplomatic skills, citing past social media posts attacking Nepal's neighbors, including India and China. However, analyst Sapkota argues that Shah's lack of political baggage could allow Nepal to pursue a more independent diplomacy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already signaled a willingness to work with Nepal's new leadership, and Shah has emphasized the importance of maintaining close relations with India.

Balendra Shah, Nepal's youngest prime minister, has been officially sworn in following his party's decisive election victory that came after months of youth-led protests which resulted in the government's collapse in September.The rapper-turned-politician was appointed prime minister by President Ram Chandra Paudel on Friday, after his three-year-old Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured 182 seats in the 275-member parliament during the March 5 election. This vote marked Nepal's first election since the anticorruption Gen Z-led demonstrations that tragically claimed 76 lives.The 35-year-old leader made a distinctive appearance during his swearing-in ceremony at the President House, wearing black trousers, a matching jacket, his signature black Nepali cloth cap, and sunglasses, in the presence of diplomats and senior government officials.A day prior to his formal appointment, the new premier, better known as Balen, released his first public statement since the historic election through a rap song shared on social media platforms. Titled Jay Mahakaali (Victory to Goddess Mahakali), the song features lyrics such as 'Nepal is not scared this time, the heart is full of red blood … Laughter and happiness will reach every household this time.' The accompanying music video, showcasing large crowds cheering during his campaign, has garnered nearly three million views.'The strength of unity is my national power,' Shah raps in the track that emphasizes his political message of national cohesion.A former mayor of Kathmandu, Shah holds the distinction of being Nepal's first Madhesi premier – representing people from the southern plains bordering India – to lead the Himalayan nation.China extended its official congratulations to Nepal on Shah's swearing-in, with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressing support for its Himalayan neighbor in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.The political transition follows months of protests driven by widespread discontent over unemployment and systemic corruption in the nation of 30 million people. Approximately one-fifth of Nepal's population lives in poverty, with an estimated 1,500 citizens leaving the country daily for work abroad.Although Shah did not directly participate in the demonstrations, he publicly expressed solidarity with the largely Generation Z protesters who spearheaded the movement that brought down the previous administration.Political instability has long plagued Nepal, with 32 governments taking office since 1990, none of which have completed a full five-year term. The Nepali Congress party, the country's oldest political organization, secured only 38 seats in the recent election, placing it a distant second. The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) of KP Sharma Oli, who resigned following the Gen Z unrest, now controls 25 parliamentary seats.Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki had been leading the nation through the interim period preceding the parliamentary election that brought Shah to power.

France secured a 2-1 victory over Brazil in a World Cup warm-up match, showcasing their resilience even after being reduced to 10 men on the field.The match, which served as a crucial preparation for the World Cup, saw France demonstrate their determination and skill against a strong Brazilian side.For a detailed account of the game, including key moments and player performances, click here to access our full match report.

UK car production experienced a significant decline in February 2026, with 17% fewer cars rolling off production lines compared to the same period in 2025. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), this downturn is attributed to a sharp drop in exports, which fell by 12% overall.The industry is sounding the alarm, describing the situation as 'extremely worrying.' Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, emphasized that these figures pre-date the crisis in the Middle East, which is expected to further strain the sector. The ongoing conflict has led to soaring global energy prices, potentially denting consumer demand and exacerbating the decline.UK carmakers are facing challenges in key markets, including China, where demand has cratered due to the rise of domestically made competitors. Additionally, US tariffs imposed by Donald Trump have put pressure on UK manufacturers. Exports to the EU did see a 5% increase, but this was offset by a 34% decline in exports to the US and a 66% plunge in exports to China.The production of battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid cars also experienced a decline, falling by 3% to 26,629 units. Despite this, these vehicles accounted for 40% of total output.The industry's current challenges stand in stark contrast to the UK government's ambitions, as outlined by Labour, to have 1.3 million vehicles manufactured annually by 2035. This target is nearly double the 764,715 cars and vans produced in 2025.The SMMT has warned that if the UK is not fully included in the EU's proposed 'Made in Europe' manufacturing rules, European sales could take a hit. The Japanese carmaker Nissan has threatened to close its Sunderland plant if these rules are introduced, citing potential damage to the £70 billion-a-year cross-channel trade.

Ryan Murphy's drama series 'Love Story' has become Disney+'s most-streamed drama ever, captivating audiences worldwide with its schlocky, glossy portrayal of the doomed marriage between John F Kennedy Jr and Carolyn Bessette. The series, which consists of nine episodes, tells the story of the couple's whirlwind romance and tragic fate.The show's success can be attributed to its unique blend of camp nostalgia, paparazzi exposure, and cultural symbolism. According to TV critic Scott Bryan, Murphy's formula for success involves targeting subjects with tragic backstories and workable legal margins, which in practice means the longer they have been dead, the smoother the adaptation.The series begins as a Cinderella romance between a Kennedy scion and a Calvin Klein publicist who became the most famous and scrutinised couple in the US – and evolves into a lesson in what happens when marriage becomes a form of branding. The show's relatability factor also lies in its portrayal of universal dating themes, great hair, and a wardrobe full of Prada and Kangol caps worn backwards.Social media searches for JFK Jr and Bessette grew by more than 9,100% in the past month, according to FX, which created the show. The show's success has also sparked speculation about Murphy's next subject, with names like Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston, John Lennon and Yoko Ono, and Liz Taylor and Richard Burton being floated on social media.The show's impact can be seen in its ability to resonate with audiences, particularly Gen Z women, who have connected with the show's themes of relationships, style, and tragedy. As Bryan noted, 'Love Story' is 'unapologetically schmaltzy' and doesn't try to be anything more than a show that looks the part, making it a refreshing change from the usual prestige television dramas.

Italian regulators have launched an investigation into Sephora and Benefit Cosmetics, both owned by the French luxury group LVMH, over allegations of using 'covert marketing strategies' to sell beauty products to young girls. The probes aim to determine if these brands have been targeting minors with skincare products, such as face masks, serums, and anti-ageing creams, potentially fuelling an unhealthy obsession with skincare known as 'cosmeticorexia'.The Italian Competition Authority stated that the investigations were opened over concerns that important information – such as warnings and precautions for cosmetics not intended for, or tested on, minors – may have been omitted or presented in a misleading manner. The regulator expressed concerns that the frequent and combined use of a wide range of cosmetics by minors, without proper awareness, may be harmful to their health.The trend of young girls and teenagers being drawn to high-end beauty products has been driven by skincare content produced by beauty influencers, many of whom are tweens and teens themselves. This phenomenon, known as 'Sephora kids', has met a backlash from dermatologists who argue that children do not require beauty products and that this early focus on appearance can create anxiety over how their skin looks.Sephora has previously sought to distance itself from this trend, with its North America CEO, Artemis Patrick, stating in a 2024 interview that 'we do not market to this audience'. However, the regulator alleges that the company has adopted a 'particularly insidious marketing strategy' involving the use of 'very young micro-influencers who encourage the compulsive purchase of cosmetics among young people, a particularly vulnerable group'. LVMH said that it, Sephora, and Benefit would 'fully cooperate with the authorities' but declined to comment further, reaffirming their strict compliance with applicable Italian regulations.