IslamiCity

Iran says a religious decree, or fatwa, forbids the development and use of nuclear weapons, reiterating a long-standing position by Iranian officials that such arms are banned under Islamic law. The claim comes amid ongoing international debate over Iran's nuclear programme. Critics have repeatedly questioned whether the decree is binding or verifiable, while Iran's government points to it as proof that its nuclear activities remain peaceful.

BBC economics editor Faisal Islam says the chancellor must make two major calls ahead of the upcoming Budget. The analysis examines the fiscal choices she faces as the government weighs tax and spending options against pressure to keep its fiscal rules intact. Commentators are watching closely to see whether the Budget will raise taxes, cut spending, or reshape borrowing plans.

A former schoolfriend of Shamima Begum, the British woman who left London as a teenager to join Islamic State in Syria, has been arrested in connection with suspected terrorism offences. The arrest, reported by The Observer, renews attention on the Bethnal Green Academy circle that travelled to Syria in 2015 and on how authorities handle returning associates years later.