This Is Why

The first batch of the Mandelson files have finally been released – but even though there’s still more to come, there are already serious questions for the prime minister.
What was the vetting process before Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the United States?
How much was known about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein? And could more have been done to prevent a five-figure payout following his downfall?
Niall is joined by Sky’s political correspondent Rob Powell, who has been going through the files.
Peter Mandelson has always denied any criminal wrongdoing.
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After a phone call with Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump announced the US could ease oil sanctions on some countries to combat the rise in prices brought about by the Iran war.
It wasn’t clear whether Russia would be included, but such a move could signal a significant shift for the country, which has been isolated since the start of the war with Ukraine.
Could Russia be finding its way back to the world stage – after years as a global pariah?
Jayne Secker is joined by Sky's Moscow correspondent, Ivor Bennett.
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A "continuity candidate" or the ultimate "nepo baby"?
Iran’s new supreme leader is Mojtaba Khamenei, a 56-year-old cleric and son of the previous ayatollah.
Khamenei was once described as "the power behind the robes" in his father's regime - but very little is known about him.
So, who is Mojtaba Khamenei, and how was he chosen? What does his selection mean for the future of the Iranian regime and people?
And with few signs that the war with Israel and the US will abate any time soon, what difference will he make to the outcome of the conflict?
Niall is joined by Dr Louise Kettle, assistant professor of international relations at the University of Nottingham.
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The warship HMS Dragon is now not expected to leave for the Mediterranean until next week to begin its mission to defend a British military base in Cyprus from attacks by Iran.
The ship is one of six Type 45 air defence destroyers in the Royal Navy and one of three that aren’t currently out of service.
It is well-equipped to deal with Iran’s Shahed-type drones, so why has it taken so long to send it to the region?
Niall speaks to defence analyst Tom Sharpe, who also spent 27 years in the Royal Navy, about the military capabilities of HMS Dragon, the state of the Navy currently, and when the warship might finally arrive in the Med.
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Most people have had a bad experience on holiday – but not many will have seen their destination turn into a war zone.

That’s been the case for thousands of British travellers in places like Oman and Dubai following the start of the conflict with Iran.

The UK’s first repatriation flight was branded a “total shambles” - so what is the government doing to help both holiday makers and expats caught in the crossfire?

Niall is joined by Sky’s correspondent Sally Lockwood in Dubai.

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