Starmer issues ultimatum to Musk over Grok's AI abuse on X

Plus: Former Tory chancellor Nadhim Zahawi defects to Reform

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Good morning and welcome to your daily news briefing from The Independent.   Starmer has issued an ultimatum to Elon Musk, vowing to take "fast action" to deal with the abuses of the AI tool Grok on X, controversial former Tory chancellor Nadhim Zahawi has defected to Reform UK, and Iran and the United States have opened the door to dialogue. Top stories 1 | Starmer issues ultimatum to Musk vowing 'fast action' from government to end Grok abuse on X Read more 2 | Controversial former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi defects to Reform 'after begging Tories for peerage' Read more 3 | Iran opens door to dialogue after Trump threatens 'serious' military action over protests Read more 4 | Major incident declared after 30,000 homes experiencing water shortages across South East Read more 5 | EU 'demands Farage clause' in Brexit reset talks with Starmer Read more Editors' picks Mark Almond: If Iran falls, the United Nations will be first to feel the shockwaves Negative equity is back – is this the reason you can't sell up anymore? Sorry, trolls, Mattel's autistic Barbie is its best doll yet Your Views Your Views 'Unhappy do us part': Readers reflect on marriages that didn't last Unfortunately, when relationships are actually in trouble, some couples end up trying to put a plaster on it, like getting married or having a baby, thinking it will bring them closer together. In fact, it only makes the eventual split worse.   Mark Simpson Get involved and share your views here. Don't forget to complete your registration You haven't completed your registration with The Independent. It's free, quick, and helps support our journalism while tailoring your experience. Register now to enjoy benefits including access to limited Premium articles, The Independent app, more than 20 newsletters and commenting on independent.co.uk. Complete your registration today to unlock access. WATCH  Fireball erupts as London recycling centre is engulfed in flames STAT OF THE DAY 8,400 The number of filling stations across the UK will have stopped selling the fuel by 2035 Read more QUOTE OF THE DAY Britain is drinking in the last chance saloon  In a video message announcing his defection to Reform, former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi said the UK 'really does need Nigel Farage' Read more Other stories you might like Jewish MP's visit to school cancelled after pro-Palestine campaign Chechen warlord hospitalised with kidney failure, Ukrainian intelligence says Huge Roman villa found in Wales dubbed 'Port Talbot's Pompeii' Enjoy a winter tipple – Bankhill single malt whisky is reduced to under £17. Stock up on socks for less in the Peper Harow sale. Choosing The Independent as one of your preferred sources ensures that you'll see our coverage more prominently displayed in your searches. That way, you can be sure you're accessing the latest headlines from a trusted source. SOURCE PREFERENCES Join the conversation and follow us Download the free Independent app Please do not reply directly to this email   You are currently registered to receive The Independent's Evening Headlines newsletter.   To unsubscribe from The Independent's Morning Headlines newsletter, or to manage your email preferences please click here.   This e-mail was sent by Independent Digital News and Media Ltd, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH. Registered in England and Wales with company number 07320345 Read our privacy policy and cookie policy