⛽ Iran's demands keep oil prices on the rise

Crude oil prices jumped this week following Iran setting six demands for a peace deal with the United States. This tension is happening near the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Peninsula. Brent crude was trading at $84.24 per barrel, while WTI was at $78.70 per barrel as of the report. Iran insists the Strait will only reopen if the US agrees to terms like force withdrawal and sanction relief. Consequently, the Strait remains closed, keeping energy prices elevated amidst ongoing Houthi attacks. ⛽

🛰️ Shuttle launch damage revealed early on

NASA's first Space Shuttle launch on April 12, 1981, resulted in 16 missing and 148 damaged heat shield tiles. This damage occurred within the first few seconds due to the shockwave reflecting off the launch pad. The event, called an overpressure event, showed that the vehicle was stressed by its own ignition force. NASA subsequently implemented a water suppression system to absorb this acoustic energy. This foundational fix continues to evolve for modern launches like the Space Launch System. 🚀

✈️ VietJet Passenger Claims Water Refused for Mother's Medicine

A passenger on VietJet alleges that their request for water for their mother's medication was denied. This incident occurred on a flight, prompting significant discussion among travelers and airline watchdogs. The passenger claims the refusal happened recently, though specific dates were not provided in the report. This situation raises serious concerns regarding passenger care and emergency medical needs during flights. Authorities are expected to review the airline's procedures in light of these serious claims. ✈️

📱 OnePlus 13s 5G: Still a Top Pick in 2026

The OnePlus 13s 5G is currently available in India for Rs 51,999 for the base 12GB+256GB variant. This compact and powerful phone, which launched in 2025, is available in Green Silk and Black Velvet. It features a 6.3-inch ProXDR display and is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC. The device also boasts a 5850mAh battery with 80W SUPERVOOC fast-charging. Users can purchase it on Amazon India or the official OnePlus website. 📱

🌟 Ayushmann Khurrana on Mohanlal and Jude Anthany Joseph

Ayushmann Khurrana has publicly responded to filmmaker Jude Anthany Joseph's clarification regarding a past project involving Mohanlal. Khurrana shared his admiration for Mohanlal by stating, "I hope I’m worthy enough to share screen space with him someday." Jude had previously clarified on his Instagram that his comment about Mohanlal was about the producer, not Ayushmann. This exchange eases speculation about any friction between the actor and the filmmaker. Both parties have expressed mutual respect and hope for future collaborations.

📢 Jharkhand protests flare up over exam irregularities

BJP leaders were detained by police Monday while protesting outside CM Hemant Soren's residence regarding JPSC-JSSC alleged irregularities. Students affiliated with 'JPSC JSSC Reform Manch' gathered at the Old State Assembly in Ranchi for a planned 'Vidhan Sabha Gherao' march. Thousands of aspirants from Jharkhand's 24 districts assembled to demand transparent recruitment practices. Security has been heavily tightened outside the State Assembly ahead of the August 10 march. Organizers have assured the public that the march will remain completely peaceful and constitutional. ✊

🚨 Gunman Shoots Inside Thai Government Office

A gunman opened fire inside a government office in Thailand, leading to immediate national concern. The incident took place within a government building in Thailand. No specific casualty numbers or dates were provided in the initial reports. This event adds to the broader context of recent school shootings across the country. Authorities are currently investigating the full scope of the situation. 🇹🇭

🔬 WHO pushes for Ebola vaccine trial in DRC

The World Health Organisation has recommended prioritizing the Ervebo vaccine for a clinical trial against Bundibugyo virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This decision followed preliminary animal study data suggesting the vaccine offers cross-protection, especially in reducing deaths. The recommendation was made by WHO's Technical Advisory Group on 31 July, amid an ongoing outbreak declared on 15 May 2026. Currently, there are 3,605 confirmed cases and 1,587 deaths recorded as of 30 July. Experts stressed that further clinical research is needed to confirm its effectiveness against the virus.

🚗 Kejriwal's WagonR story goes viral online

Arvind Kejriwal's banter about his blue WagonR recently went viral on social media following a YouTube podcast appearance. The AAP convener revealed that they used the car after the first election, but switched to an official vehicle post-2015. The Aam Aadmi Party first achieved its electoral breakthrough in the December 2013 Delhi Legislative Assembly election. Kejriwal stated that AAP received the WagonR as part of a party donation instead of personal purchase. He later mentioned his preference for eating mangoes when asked about personal interests. 🚗

🤢 Bengaluru hotels busted for rotten food & fungus meat

A fresh food safety drive in Bengaluru led to the seizure of over 132 kg of spoiled food items. The Food Safety Department inspected 26 hotels across the city, collecting 35 food samples for lab testing. This action followed public complaints about unhygienic practices and substandard food quality. At Hotel Sky, UB City, rotten meat and curd expiring 10 days prior were found. Adjudication proceedings will now start against the violating Food Business Operators. 🤢

🔥 Saudi Factory Fire Claims 16 Lives

A fire broke out at a factory in Saudi Arabia, resulting in the tragic deaths of 16 Bangladeshi migrant workers. The incident occurred at a manufacturing facility in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 16 workers lost their lives in the blaze, with the incident being reported on October 20, 2023. These workers were part of the migrant labor force employed in the region. Authorities are currently investigating the exact cause of the factory fire. 😥