Why does Reform seem unassailable? Because this is party conference season, when politicos always lose the plot | Simon Jenkins

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged protesters to be mindful of the grief experienced by British Jews during upcoming pro-Palestinian demonstrations. His comments highlight the delicate balance between advocating for political causes and respecting the emotional impact of ongoing conflicts. This matter is significant as it reflects the broader societal tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine issue and the importance of empathy in public discourse.

Japan is on the brink of a historic change as Sanae Takaichi has been elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, making her the first woman likely to become prime minister. This significant milestone not only reflects a shift in political dynamics but also symbolizes progress towards gender equality in a country where female leadership has been scarce. Takaichi's admiration for Margaret Thatcher hints at her ambitions for a strong and prosperous Japan, and her leadership could inspire future generations of women in politics.

The article discusses how the hairstyles of politicians, from Starmer's quiff to the Maga movement's glossy locks, reflect their political identities and public perceptions. It highlights a recent YouGov survey revealing that many view the Labour party as dishonest and self-serving, indicating a significant image problem for them. This matters because public perception can greatly influence political success, and understanding these dynamics is crucial for both voters and political strategists.

In response to the recent attack in Manchester, Prime Minister Starmer has pledged to protect Jewish communities across Britain. He emphasized the need to combat antisemitic hate, a sentiment echoed by the King and various religious leaders and politicians. This commitment is crucial as it highlights the importance of unity and support for marginalized communities during challenging times.

Senior Tories, including former Prime Minister Theresa May and Alok Sharma, have expressed strong disapproval of Kemi Badenoch's proposal to repeal the Climate Change Act, labeling it 'catastrophic.' They argue that such a move would be detrimental to the UK, with May stating that even Margaret Thatcher would not have supported it. This debate highlights the ongoing tensions within the Conservative Party regarding environmental policies and the future direction of the UK's climate strategy.

In a shocking incident, UK police shot a man suspected of a car ramming and stabbing near a synagogue, coinciding with the solemn observance of Yom Kippur. This act of violence has drawn strong condemnation from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who expressed his dismay and left a European summit in Copenhagen early to address the situation. The timing of this attack raises serious concerns about safety and security, particularly for communities observing significant religious events.

The situation in Gaza escalates as Israel continues its bombardment, resulting in the deaths of 61 individuals, despite former President Donald Trump's call for a ceasefire and urging Hamas to expedite negotiations for the release of captives. This ongoing conflict highlights the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and raises concerns about the humanitarian crisis in the region.

In a significant political event, billionaire populist Andrej Babis' ANO party has emerged victorious in the Czech parliamentary election, although it has not secured an overall majority according to preliminary results. This outcome is noteworthy as it reflects the ongoing influence of populist politics in the region and sets the stage for potential coalition negotiations, which could shape the future governance of the Czech Republic.

In a significant crackdown, nearly 500 activists were arrested during a silent vigil in London supporting Palestine Action, an organization banned by the UK government since July. This protest aimed to be the largest demonstration against the ban, highlighting the tensions surrounding freedom of expression and government policies. The arrests occurred despite pleas from the Prime Minister for restraint, raising concerns about the balance between public safety and the right to protest.

Milan Mandaric, the former owner of Portsmouth, Leicester City, and Sheffield Wednesday, has passed away at the age of 87. His contributions to English football were significant, as he played a key role in the development and success of these clubs. Mandaric's legacy will be remembered by fans and players alike, highlighting the impact he had on the sport.

In response to the recent synagogue attack, Greater Manchester Police are receiving additional support from other forces, resulting in hundreds of extra officers on the streets. This increase in police presence aims to enhance community safety and reassure residents, highlighting the commitment to protecting vulnerable places of worship and maintaining public order.

Storm Amy has caused significant damage and disruption across the UK, leaving thousands of homes in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland without power. The storm has also led to the cancellation of numerous train services, affecting travel plans for many. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather events and the importance of infrastructure resilience.