🚢 Hormuz strait remains risky despite US mine-clearing claims

US President Donald Trump claimed the US Navy cleared all sea mines in the vital Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. However, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister stated the strait is still closed, despite an agreement with Oman. Before the conflict, around 130 ships passed daily, moving about one-fifth of global oil and gas. Analysts note that while some lanes might be clear, uncertainty keeps war-risk insurance premiums very high. Shipping companies are reluctant to return to pre-war traffic levels due to this ongoing risk. 🚢

🏏 Ex-cricketer calls Dhoni's CSK stake demand unrealistic

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra refuted reports that MS Dhoni sought a 25% stake in CSK, labeling the rumours as planted. This discussion arose after reports suggested Dhoni initially wanted 25% before dropping to 20%. However, CSK reportedly offered the former captain only a 5.5% stake, according to some reports. Chopra argued that a 25% stake at a potential 1.8 billion valuation is financially unrealistic for anyone to give. The negotiations reportedly broke down as the teams could not agree on the proposed terms. 🏏

🦠 Ebola still active in Central Africa; aid groups step up

The second-deadliest Ebola outbreak in record at the Democratic Republic of Congo continues despite global attention fading. Key organizations are providing medical care amidst challenges like misinformation in Congo. Over 5,200 cases and more than 2,500 deaths have been confirmed since the WHO's May 17 declaration. The outbreak, causing a 44% fatality rate, is complicated by military conflict in eastern Congo. Organizations like Africa CDC and Doctors Without Borders are working to contain the spread moving forward. 🌍

🚨 8 arrested amid statue installation clash in UP

Violence broke out in Raja ki Sikri village in Budaun after attempts to install an Ambedkar statue on government land. Police have arrested eight individuals and registered two FIRs following the Tuesday evening stone-pelting incident. Seven police personnel and a villager were injured, while several government vehicles were damaged during the confrontation. The administration stated the land was a village threshing ground and installation permission was lacking. A large police force is now deployed, and the statue has been safely moved to the tehsil premises.

⚠️ India tracks Nepal floods; water levels dropping

The Centre is closely monitoring the flash flood situation in Nepal due to concerns about border impact in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed this on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, expressing condolences for the devastation. The CWC reported a sudden rise in Trishuli river levels, suspected from a GLOF event near the Nepal-China border. While warnings were issued, the MHA confirmed reservoir water levels on the Nepal side are now receding and the situation is under control. Officials from several ministries are continuously monitoring the developing crisis.

🤖 Google's AI cleans up your audio recordings

Google has updated Gemini Audio with a new feature called Gemini 3.5 Transcribe. This new model automatically detects specialized jargon across more than 85 languages. It removes filler words like 'um' and 'uh' while allowing natural voice editing. Users can also provide a custom vocabulary for specific jargon and attribute speech for up to three speakers. The feature is rolling out today for macOS Gemini app users and select Android users.

🌳 The Division 2 gets Central Park expansion

The Division 2 is expanding with a new DLC called "Echoes of Central Park." This expansion will take players to a previously unseen area of New York City, focusing on Central Park. Announced at Gamescom in Cologne, the DLC will feature a darker tone and explore underlying fear. Agents will respond to a distress call inside the park, requiring them to untangle mysteries. A full reveal of the new map and gameplay is scheduled for September 24.

🔭 Witnessing my first total solar eclipse in Spain 🌑

The author, a skywatching writer, finally saw a total solar eclipse after 37 years of hoping to witness the black sun. This experience took place in Valoria la Buena, central Spain, on August 12th, 2026. The author joined the Dynamic Eclipse Broadcast (DEB) Initiative to capture data on the sun's corona for a NASA webcast. The event provided a blend of science, awe, culture, and faith amidst a multinational group. This monumental first experience became a life-long memory for the writer.

😟 Hindu businessman and family missing amid threats in Bangladesh

A Hindu businessman, Pintu Das, and his four family members have been missing since August 20 in Bangladesh's Chandpur district. The missing people were reported to be from Chandpur district, with Pintu Das involved in gold jewellery lending. Authorities are investigating the disappearance, which comes after allegations of unpaid gold loans. This event raises concerns over the safety of the Hindu minority, following a recent killing in Rangpur. The investigation will determine if the family went into hiding or if foul play occurred. 😟

📱 Apple foldable iPhone targets 10 million sales

IDC estimates that the Apple foldable iPhone is set to ship over 10 million units in its first year of availability. This projection covers the global market for the new foldable device. The sales forecast is based on market analysis conducted in late 2023. The introduction of this high-end foldable phone is expected to boost Apple's premium segment significantly. Further sales milestones will be tracked throughout the coming fiscal year. 📱

🔴 Man Utd launches £43m bid for Camavinga

Manchester United has reportedly made an ambitious late move to sign Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga before the transfer window closes. The Red Devils are preparing a £43 million opening offer for the 23-year-old French international at the Santiago Bernabeu. He is under contract until the summer of 2029, and his role has been limited recently under new management. This pursuit is seen as a reaction to United's recent midfield struggles against Hull City. The club is also facing competition from Chelsea in this transfer race.