🚨 UAE Halts All Trade with Iran Post Missile Scare

The United Arab Emirates suspended all trade and financial dealings with Iran on Tuesday. This action followed a regional escalation after the UAE accused Iran of firing two ballistic missiles near its territory. The UAE stated the missiles targeted maritime navigation, while Iran categorically rejected these claims. Previously, the UAE had faced numerous attacks from Iran since the Middle East war started on February 28. Iran, in turn, warned that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until a peace agreement with the United States is reached.

⚽ Mourinho: Real Madrid is a different league

José Mourinho shared his first external interview since returning to Real Madrid, discussing his evolution as a coach and manager. The coach stated that Real Madrid operates on a different level, demanding commitment from players. He praised Kylian Mbappé's performance, noting his dedication and skill during training. Regarding Rodri, Mourinho mentioned that Real Madrid made a substantial offer, but the player hesitated. He asserted that the club requires players who commit fully without second thoughts. ⚽

⚙️ NTA shakes up, ditches 600 experts for tighter checks

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has decided to remove 600 experts and implement a new four-tier paper scrutiny system. This major operational change was discussed with Education Minister Pralhad Joshi in New Delhi on Tuesday. The agency plans to onboard 20-25 new officials and move offices quickly over the next two to three weeks. This enhanced checking mechanism aims to catch factual and language errors before final exams are set. Furthermore, NTA is hiring for 10 leadership roles and overhauling its internal security protocols. 📚

✈️ Heart Aerospace's electric plane takes off for the first time

Heart Aerospace's X1 battery-electric demonstrator completed its inaugural flight, successfully reaching 1,100 feet. This full-scale demonstrator was tested at Plattsburgh International Airport in upstate New York. The 27-minute mission occurred on August 12, and the aircraft weighed over 25,000 pounds at takeoff. This flight demonstrated electric flight at a commercial airliner scale, using about $5 worth of electricity. The X1 validates tech for the planned ES-30, aiming for commercial service in 2031. ✈️

🤱 TN Govt Approves Huge Maternity Leave for Third Child

The Vijay government in Tamil Nadu has officially approved a groundbreaking maternity leave policy. This major update benefits mothers in the state, specifically for the birth of a third child. The policy grants a full 365 days of paid leave to the eligible mothers. This initiative aims to support working parents and improve gender equality in the workforce. Further details regarding the implementation timeline are expected to be released soon. 🤱

😟 Mamdani on Netanyahu Billboard with Iran & Hezbollah Leaders

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani was featured on a campaign billboard in Tel Aviv alongside leaders from Iran, Hezbollah, and Turkey. The billboard, run by Netanyahu's Likud party, warns, “They want Netanyahu to lose Don’t let them win.” This follows Mamdani's strong criticism of Israel’s Gaza war and his public call labeling Netanyahu a "war criminal." Netanyahu has responded by accusing Mamdani of "fomenting hate" ahead of Israel's October elections. The feud heats up as Gaza ceasefire talks continue to face difficulties. 😟

⚖️ US States Sue Meta Over Instagram's Teen Impact

Lawyers for 29 US states accused Meta of concealing internal research showing Instagram could be addictive for teenagers. The legal battle is taking place in a federal court in Oakland, California. The 233-page lawsuit, filed in October 2023, also claims Meta collected data from kids under 13 without parental consent. States argue Meta knowingly designed features that could harm mental health for profit. They are seeking up to $200 billion in damages and product safety changes. 📱

😟 Measles outbreak tests health ministry's resolve

The health ministry spent much of its first 180 days managing a severe measles outbreak across the nation. This crisis occurred in Bangladesh, where the disease has tragically claimed 918 lives so far. The emergency vaccination drive vaccinated 1.84 crore children by May 20, despite coverage gaps affecting 40 lakh children. While the minister claims success, experts point to systemic issues like disrupted immunization since 2020. The government plans to expand hospital capacity and roll out e-health cards moving forward.

⚽ Mourinho's dream Real Madrid XI in 4-2-3-1

Jose Mourinho seems set on using a 4-2-3-1 formation for Real Madrid's initial setup. The predicted starting XI features Courtois, Cucurella, Konate, Huijsen, Alexander-Arnold, Bernardo Silva, Arda Guler, Bellingham, Diomande, Vinicius Junior, and Mbappe. This formation is geared for the upcoming La Liga match against Espanyol on the 2026/27 season kickoff. Bellingham's role as the central playmaker is highlighted as a major asset for the team. Mbappe will lead the attack, supported by the wide players and Bellingham's creativity.

🏛️ High Court threatens jail for non-compliance

The High Court warned the Commissioner Secretary of School Education about potential jail time for failing to comply with a court judgment. The petitioner, Rashida Akhter, sought retrospective regularization from April 29, 2010, which was directed in a judgment from February 25, 2025. Authorities initially submitted compliance but the Commissioner Secretary later withdrew approval, leading to contempt proceedings. On July 21, the bench directed framing of a rule against him, and the court observed that non-compliance would lead to conviction and sentencing.

✨ Capricorn horoscope: Watch out for risky investments today

Progress is supported today, bringing recognition for Capricorn in all areas. This applies to Capricorn, with professional focus early and social gains later on August 19, 2026. Career and finances look good, but excitement might lead to high-risk investment temptations. Relationships need mature talks, while health requires managing mental pressure and taking breaks. Facts should guide decisions, even when things feel promising. 🧘