UK Politics Shake-Up: Keir Starmer resigned as Labour leader and prime minister after party pressure, setting up a leadership contest with nominations due July 9 and a new prime minister expected before Parliament returns in September—while allies and critics argue over whether the transition is “smooth” or too fast. Labour Succession Watch: Darren Jones endorsed Andy Burnham, saying there’s “room to borrow a little bit more” if it’s tied to a credible growth plan, as Burnham’s team scrambles to prepare. Pensions & Cost of Living: Starmer’s exit also spotlights pension rules, including a new £35,000 income threshold for Winter Fuel Payments. Middle East Energy: Qatar’s prime minister says LNG output should return to normal within weeks, except for damaged facilities after Iranian strikes. Trade Barriers: US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick signaled possible action on Chinese “state-subsidized” robotics imports after a review, drawing criticism that it politicizes trade. Health & Prisons: South Africa’s Eastern Cape faces the worst prison overcrowding, while Jordan’s health minister ordered missing lab supplies to keep testing running. Local Governance: Leuven, Belgium, named Somali-born Sarah Mohamed Khalif as alderman for care, welfare and cemeteries starting Jan. 1, 2027.