A celebration at Villa Wolkonsky in Rome marked 200 years since Lord Byron's death, featuring British Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and spoken word poet Scarlett Sabet. The event, organized by the Keats-Shelley House and the Italian Cultural Institute, highlighted the strong cultural ties between Britain and Italy. Sir Ivor Roberts, former British Ambassador to Rome, spoke about Byron's love for Italy. The celebration included performances, readings, and exhibitions, with notable attendees such as Jimmy Page. The event is part of a year-long commemoration of Byron's bicentenary.

Europeans experienced a decrease in jihadist attacks last year, marking the safest period since the rise of Islamic State in 2014, according to Europol. Despite this, Europol suggests that the decline of IS may lead to increased efforts by al-Qaeda to regain influence.

Satow’s Diplomatic Practice, first published in 1917, is a highly regarded text in the field of diplomacy. The eighth edition includes updated sections on the history and practice of diplomacy, international law, and multilateral diplomacy. It features new chapters on modern diplomatic challenges, the impact of China and Russia's actions, and updated content on human rights and digital diplomacy. The book covers a wide range of topics including diplomatic privileges, consular matters, treaty-making, and the role of NGOs and violent non-state actors. It also addresses the influence of international terrorism and the interaction with intelligence agencies and commercial security firms.

The leak of critical assessments of the Trump administration by the UK's ambassador to the US, Sir Kim Darroch, raises questions about the role and credentials of an ambassador. The article discusses the importance of an ambassador's candid assessments and the implications of such leaks, drawing parallels with a previous incident involving remarks about President George W. Bush. The focus is on the disingenuous attack on the ambassador's candour and the role of an ambassador in providing honest and accurate assessments.

The article discusses the escalating nuclear threat posed by Iran following the US withdrawal from the nuclear agreement in 2018. Iran's accelerated nuclear activities present an existential threat to Israel and could lead to a regional nuclear arms race involving Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The potential for an Israeli retaliatory strike on Iran's nuclear facilities is explored, highlighting the military and political challenges. The article warns of the severe consequences of both military action and allowing Iran to develop nuclear weapons, emphasizing the high stakes as the world approaches a nuclear tipping point.

Britain, Italy, and Japan are collaborating to build the next generation of fighter jets, reflecting a Western move to prepare for potential U.S. isolationism in defense. The EU is pursuing a stronger security role, independent of the U.S. and UK if necessary, with initiatives like a European Defence Union. This shift is driven by concerns over Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine, war fatigue in Europe, and the possibility of an isolationist U.S. administration. European NATO members face a dilemma between increasing defense spending to show responsibility and fueling a narrative of not needing the U.S. The article emphasizes the importance of balancing U.S. relations while expanding defense cooperation with other countries.

Animals have historically played a role in diplomacy, with notable examples including pandas given to the US and UK, a giraffe to France, and various creatures to English monarchs. The Smithsonian’s National Zoo's pandas are returning to China, marking the end of an era of 'panda diplomacy.' Other instances of animal diplomacy include Cleopatra's alleged gift of a giraffe to Julius Caesar, a polar bear swimming in the Thames, and various animals presented to Queen Elizabeth II. While animal gifts can symbolize respect and power, they can also lead to diplomatic incidents, such as the controversy over panda treatment in the US and Putin's dog scaring Merkel. The article recounts these historical events and the implications of using animals as diplomatic gifts.

Britain, Italy, and Japan are collaborating on a new fighter jet program, reflecting a broader Western strategy to prepare for potential US withdrawal from global defense commitments. The European Union is pushing for a stronger, independent defense capability, highlighted by recent initiatives to boost ammunition production and procurement. The article discusses the implications of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the rising death toll in Gaza, and the potential return of an isolationist US administration. European countries are increasingly focusing on self-reliance in defense while maintaining alliances beyond the US.

Israel launched a targeted tank raid into Gaza, striking terror infrastructure ahead of a broader ground offensive. The Gaza death toll has risen to over 7,000, with significant casualties reported in recent air strikes. Israel's response to Hamas's attacks is expected to take years, involving military, diplomatic, and social efforts. Border Force officials have been sent to Egypt to assist in evacuating British citizens trapped in Gaza. Additionally, Israel conducted air strikes in southern Lebanon, targeting areas near the Israel-Lebanon border where tensions with Hezbollah have escalated.

The UK Covid Inquiry has revealed that WhatsApp messages between senior figures in Nicola Sturgeon's Scottish Government during the pandemic were deleted, raising concerns about transparency and legality. Despite UK ministers providing similar material, the Scottish Government has not retained many messages, prompting criticism from Douglas Ross and bereaved families. The inquiry is considering legal measures to compel evidence, while the Scottish Government insists on needing a legal order to share messages due to personal information concerns. The situation highlights ongoing issues with record-keeping and transparency within the Scottish Government.