⛽ Iran rejects ceasefire, Hormuz standoff fuels oil hike ⛽

Iran is rejecting a fresh temporary ceasefire with the US, demanding a permanent end to the conflict instead. This tension involves the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran’s lead negotiator insists the strait remains closed. The initial 60-day MoU, signed June 17, ended without extension on August 17. Tehran believes the deal meant 'end of war,' while the US maintains its blockade. This standoff is causing global oil prices to rise, with Brent crude at $91.02 on August 19.

⚽ Chelsea's backup plan if Enzo moves to City

Manchester City is reportedly keen on signing Enzo Fernández, which has prompted Chelsea to prepare a backup strategy. Chelsea has identified Bournemouth's Alex Scott as the top replacement candidate for the Argentine midfielder. Initially, Chelsea listed a price, but reports suggest they have raised the asking price beyond £120 million. This potential move could see City strengthen its midfield while Chelsea targets Scott to Stamford Bridge. The deadline approaches, making a quick decision on this major transfer saga necessary. ⚽

💻 Windows 11 right-click menu needs fixing

Microsoft officially admitted that the Windows 11 right-click menu is currently "cluttered and sluggish." The company is testing a redesigned, faster version with Windows Insiders to give users more control. This issue stems from third-party app extensions adding too many options to the context menu. An alternative, Nilesoft Shell, offers deeper customization, allowing users to remove entries and add custom scripts. While Microsoft's update is coming, users can opt for this third-party tool now. 🛠️

⚛️ Mystery particle X(2370) might be a glueball

Physicists suggest the mysterious X(2370) particle offers the strongest evidence yet for a glueball. This finding comes from the BESIII Collaboration at China’s Institute of High Energy Physics. The particle was observed in 2011 and further analyzed with 10 billion J/ψ events in 2024. Its suppression in certain decays supports the theory that it has little ordinary quark flavor content. Researchers will need more decay measurements to finalize this identification. 🧐

🪐 Mars Dust: How Much Is Safe to Breathe?

Scientists are investigating the safety levels of dust particles originating from Mars. Researchers at various institutions are studying the composition of Martian dust. Data gathered includes particle sizes ranging from nanometers to micrometers, observed during various missions. This research is crucial for planning future human missions to the Red Planet. The findings will help set guidelines for astronaut health during interplanetary travel. 🧑‍🚀

🤖 Unitree Robotics to Launch After Major Shanghai IPO

Unitree Robotics is preparing for its debut following a significant initial public offering. The company is based in Shanghai, China, and recently completed its massive fundraising round. The IPO was valued at $904 million, marking a huge financial milestone for the robotics firm. This successful listing solidifies Unitree's position in the rapidly growing global robotics market. The company plans to expand its operations and research following this major capital injection.

⚽ Fermin Lopez ready for false nine role at Barcelona

Fermin Lopez confirmed he is happy to adapt and play as a false nine for Barcelona this season. This comes after Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have exited the club during the summer transfer window. While Barca still seeks a new striker, the final decision on a replacement is pending before the window closes. Lopez noted he has experience in this role, similar to his favorite attacking midfielder position. He mentioned several players, including Gordon, could score goals next season for the Catalan giants. ⚽

📱 CNET readers predict Apple's next big drops

Nearly 80% of CNET readers expect Apple to debut its first foldable phone this year, possibly as early as September. The rumored book-style device could launch alongside the iPhone 18, potentially starting at $2,000. Meanwhile, 72% believe the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will bring back the black color option. Most readers are unlikely to see new AirPods with cameras this year, with some expecting them in 2027. Finally, 16% of readers wish for a lower sticker price on the iPhone. 📱

🏛️ Ex-SC judge to probe police action at Parliament march

The Supreme Court has formed a high-powered committee to investigate police action during the CJP-led Parliament march on July 20. This committee will be led by a retired SC judge and include a former HC chief justice and a senior police officer. The court is looking into allegations, counter-allegations, and the graded use of force during the protest. The committee will immediately hear victims and examine evidence, including pellet gun use. Authorities must hand over all digital and documentary records to begin the inquiry seriously. 🧐

📉 Tech selloff drags Wall Street as bond yields rise

A tech selloff is currently weighing down the overall performance of Wall Street stocks. This market dip is affecting major indices across the US financial sector. Bond yields have climbed recently, reaching new levels in the last few weeks. This rising cost of borrowing is creating investor caution in the tech space. Analysts are watching to see how long this trend in yields will continue.

📱 Apple splits iPhone 18 launch schedule

Apple is deviating from its usual release timeline by splitting the iPhone 18 launch across two years. The three high-end iPhone 18 models, including the iPhone 18 Pro, will drop in September 2026. The standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 are scheduled for spring 2027. This change is reportedly to spread iPhone sales throughout the year. Analysts predict the Pro models could see a price jump of $100 to $300. 📱