Vetting Row Tests Starmer as Hormuz Talks Stir Cautious Optimism

The front pages focus on Keir Starmer amid a row over Lord Mandelson’s vetting for a US ambassador post, with aides aware of the decision despite security warnings and Oily Robbins set to dispute the PM’s account in MPs’ hearings described as a “judgement day.” Labour faces pressure ahead of local elections. Separately, the Strait of Hormuz reopening signals possible progress between the US and Iran toward a deal, but no peace talks are scheduled and the nuclear issue remains a major hurdle; the tabloids also flag a luxury-retreat story about Sarah Ferguson.