US President Donald Trump claimed he personally pressured Prime Minister Narendra Modi to accept a ceasefire with Pakistan after “7 jets were shot down.” Trump said he warned Modi of steep tariffs and blocked trade deals if tensions grew. “I said, you guys are going to end up in a nuclear war… we’re going to put tariffs on you that are so high, your head’s going to spin,” he said. India rejected foreign mediation, stating the ceasefire was reached through direct military talks. Meanwhile, Washington imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods. 

Starting August 27, the US will impose a 50% tariff on many Indian goods, doubling the earlier 25%. This comes as retaliation for India’s purchase of Russian oil and military equipment. Nearly two-thirds of India’s exports to the US, worth around $60 billion, will be hit. Key sectors like textiles, gems, jewellery, carpets, and shrimp may suffer heavy losses. Small businesses fear job cuts as costs rise. Experts warn the move could also raise prices and inflation in the US. India’s exports to America may drop sharply, giving rivals like China, Vietnam, and Mexico a major advantage. (PC: NDTV)

DJ TRYPS made history by performing a full live set while paragliding at 10,000 feet. She is the first female DJ in India to achieve this daring feat. Suspended in the sky, she turned the open air into a dancefloor as her beats echoed over the mountains. The performance tested her skills, courage, and focus against wind and turbulence. “Music has no boundaries,” she said. Her airborne set has inspired many and shown that creativity knows no limits. Videos of her performance went viral, with fans calling it “legendary” and “brave.” (PC: X)

At least 20 people, including 5 journalists, died when Israeli double strikes hit Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a “tragic mishap” and promised an investigation. The UK Prime Minister’s office said the attack was “horrific” and “completely indefensible,” urging a ceasefire. The European Commission called the strikes “completely unacceptable,” stressing civilians and journalists must be protected under international law. Families of hostages held by Hamas protested across Israel, blocking roads and burning tyres. In Brussels, journalists gathered to honor colleagues killed in Gaza, demanding protection for press freedom in war zones. (PC: BBC)

American political scientist Carol Christine Fair sparked controversy after calling Donald Trump “ch***ya” during a live interview with journalist Moeed Pirzada. The remark, a Hindi slang word for “idiot,” drew laughter before she repeated it. Fair explained that she often uses the word in Urdu and even has it on her car license plate. She criticised Trump’s administration, saying many officials lack expertise and have weakened US bureaucracy. Fair also noted that thousands of State Department staff were lost in recent years, affecting policy. Known for her sharp views, Fair specialises in South Asian political and military affairs.

Two psychologists have raised concerns about Donald Trump’s health, saying he shows signs of frontotemporal dementia. Dr. Harry Segal and Dr. John Gartner said Trump’s speech, language, and motor skills are getting worse. They pointed to his unsteady walk during public events, calling it a “telltale sign” of brain disorder. Videos from his recent meeting with Vladimir Putin showed him struggling to walk straight. The experts warned his psychomotor functions are deteriorating. Despite concerns, Trump insists he is healthy and has often boasted about his cognitive test results.

On August 25, 2025, an Israeli double-tap airstrike hit Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza, killing at least 20 people, including five journalists from Reuters, AP, Al Jazeera, and Middle East Eye. The second strike struck as rescuers and media gathered, intensifying outrage. The IDF expressed regret and launched an inquiry, claiming journalists were not deliberate targets. The attack triggered mass protests across Gaza, the West Bank, and global capitals, with demonstrators demanding accountability, civilian protection, and an immediate ceasefire. International bodies, press groups, and the UN condemned the strike as a grave threat to press freedom.   

A massive manhunt is under way in Porepunkah, Victoria, after two police officers were shot dead and one injured in an ambush. The officers were part of a team of 10 serving an arrest warrant when a heavily armed man opened fire. Police say the 59-year-old detective and 35-year-old senior constable were “murdered in cold blood.” The suspect fled into nearby bushland on foot and is considered dangerous. Authorities urged locals to stay indoors. Hundreds of officers, helicopters, and emergency teams have been deployed. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the bravery of the fallen officers. (PC: X)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) plans to bring in the rugby-style Bronco Test as a fitness standard. The new test, which includes shuttle runs of 20, 40, and 60 metres, has sparked debate. Former India batter Manoj Tiwary claimed it may have been introduced to sideline ODI skipper Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Tiwary said Virat Kohli will likely remain in plans, but Rohit must improve fitness to survive the challenge. The decision comes after fitness issues in the England Test series. (PC: NDTV)

Mass protests broke out in Israel as families of hostages blocked major roads, demanding a deal to bring their loved ones home. The unrest came a day after an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Gaza killed at least 20 people, including five journalists and four health workers. Footage showed rescuers hit by a second strike. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a “tragic mishap” and promised an investigation. Nearly 200 journalists have died in the Gaza war, the deadliest conflict for media workers. President Trump said he wants the war “settled soon” and hinted at a ceasefire deal. (PC: BBC)