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)

US President Donald Trump praised China for its monopoly on rare earth magnets but warned of heavy tariffs if supplies to America stop. “They have to give us magnets. If they don’t, then we have to charge them 200 percent tariff or something,” Trump said at the White House. He added that while the US and China share good ties, Washington holds stronger cards. China had earlier restricted exports after US tariffs, but a trade deal later resumed supply. Trump also recalled how Chinese jets stayed grounded without US airplane parts. (PC: Reuters)

Chinese President Xi Jinping will host Prime Minister Narendra Modi—his first China visit in over seven years—and President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, 2025. The summit, the largest in SCO history, serves as a powerful display of Global South solidarity, highlighting China’s push for a post‑American international order amid Western pressure. Xi emphasized China‑Russia collaboration to safeguard security and development interests, reinforcing strategic partnerships while showcasing collective influence over global political and economic narratives. (PC: NDTV)

A new bill in the US, called the Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act, could make even one drunk-driving case grounds for deportation or entry denial for Green Card and visa holders. The bill, backed by the White House, has already passed the House and is under Senate review. Immigration experts warn it could apply to old cases, even from decades ago, and might bypass due process. Critics say it targets legal immigrants and skips rehabilitation. The law could affect lakhs of Indians studying and working in the US, leaving immigrant families anxious about their future. (PC: India Today)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel “deeply regrets” a “tragic mishap” that killed 20 people, including 5 journalists, in a strike on Nasser Hospital in Gaza. In a statement, Netanyahu added that Israel values the work of journalists, doctors, and civilians. Reuters, Associated Press, and Al Jazeera confirmed that some of their contributors were among the dead. The incident has sparked international outrage, with press freedom groups warning that the deaths of reporters make covering the war more dangerous. Human rights organizations and global leaders are urging a transparent investigation into the hospital attack and civilian casualties. (PC: NDTV)

A video of Greater Noida dowry victim Nikki Bhati, 28, happily driving a Mercedes has surfaced days after her death. Nikki was set on fire at her in-laws’ home on August 21 after a fight with her husband, Vipin Bhati, who opposed her wish to reopen her beauty parlour. Her family alleged years of dowry harassment despite giving cars, gold, and cash, while in-laws demanded ₹36 lakh more. Videos showed Nikki being doused with thinner and brutally assaulted. Vipin, his mother, and brother have been arrested. Nikki’s tragic case has sparked outrage against dowry violence in Uttar Pradesh. 

At least 20 people, including 5 journalists, were killed when Israeli strikes hit Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza. Gaza’s civil defence said the attack included an explosive drone followed by an air strike as the wounded were being evacuated. Reuters, Associated Press, and Al Jazeera confirmed their journalists were among the dead. The Israeli army said it carried out a strike near the hospital but denied targeting journalists, adding an inquiry is underway. Nasser Hospital is one of Gaza’s last functioning medical facilities. Media groups say nearly 200 journalists have died in the Israel-Hamas war so far. (PC: BBC)

At least 20 people, including 4 journalists, were killed in an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza. Gaza officials said two strikes hit the hospital, with the second blast killing rescuers who rushed after the first. Among the dead were a Reuters cameraman, an Associated Press journalist, and an Al Jazeera staffer. Doctors said patients and medical workers were also hit. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, saying it “regrets any harm” and does not target journalists. This attack comes two weeks after six journalists were killed near Gaza City’s al-Shifa Hospital in another Israeli strike. (PC: BBC)

Uttar Pradesh police made the fourth arrest in the Noida dowry death case of Nikki Bhati, apprehending her father-in-law on Monday. Earlier, her husband Vipin Bhati, mother-in-law, and brother-in-law were arrested. Nikki, 28, was set on fire at her in-laws’ home on August 21 after disputes over Instagram reels and reopening her beauty parlour. Police said the family had demanded dowry of ₹36 lakh, including a Scorpio and a motorcycle. Videos on social media show her being assaulted and set on fire. Vipin Bhati reportedly showed no remorse. Investigations continue, and police are questioning all suspects. (PC: HT)