US president-elect Donald Trump&s pick to lead the Pentagon, Pete ­Hegseth, came under fire during his confirmation hearing yesterday as Democrats railed against him and voiced deep concern about his inexperience, alleged drunkenness and past opposition to women in combat.

Firefighters yesterday held the line against two massive wildfires that have ravaged parts of Los Angeles for the past week, even as desert winds and a parched landscape presented extremely hazardous conditions.

More than 100 MI5 files have been declassified for the first time, shedding light on the lives of five of Britain&s most infamous KGB spies.

The US and Qatar have said that a ceasefire deal in Gaza between Israel and Hamas is closer than ever before, with America&s top diplomat saying a truce could be agreed &at any time&.