Year: 2026

HEALTH CEO MURDER
Luigi Mangione admitted to killing a healthcare CEO overnight, citing premeditation in court.
This act has led to widespread outrage and condemnation from the victim’s family.

What’s going on?
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia, resulting in at least 38 confirmed fatalities. The quake prompted authorities to issue a tsunami warning across the region. Emergency services are responding to the damage and assessing remaining risks.
The New York Times reports, “At Least 38 Dead as 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Rocks Indonesia,” focusing on the casualty toll. In contrast, Yahoo headlines, “7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Leaves At Least 38 Dead and 13 Injured in Indonesia,” emphasising both fatalities and injuries. This difference highlights the severity versus the broader impact of the disaster.
Coverage analysed: The New York Times | Yahoo

Bangladesh closed Day Three of the first Test against Australia on 161-4, leading by 67 runs. Spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz dismissed Steve Smith, while Hasan Mahmud took two early wickets. Cameron Green (43) and Alex Carey (19) remained at the crease as Bangladesh aimed for a historic win.

The Saskatoon Berries secured a spot in the WCBL championship series for the first time in three years, defeating the Sylvan Lake Gulls. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the team in the league.

Major stock markets experienced mixed trading on Friday, with oil prices rising and the dollar weakening. Investors remain focused on U.S. interest rate forecasts and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Kospi index, having rebounded over 20% from a significant drop, reflects this volatility.

The Red Arrows have withdrawn from the Eastbourne International Airshow due to adverse weather conditions in Canada, which disrupted their travel plans. The team will attempt to resume displays with upcoming events, including the Cromer Festival on August 19 and the Clacton Air Show on August 27-28.

Royal Navy operations monitoring Russian activity in UK waters and the North Atlantic increased by 25% in July, amid concerns over potential threats to British shipping.

British academic Jason Arday, 41, was found dead on Friday in south London, following his resignation from Cambridge University amid allegations of plagiarism and racism claims. His death comes shortly after a high-profile investigation into these accusations was announced.

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia’s Flores Island, resulting in two fatalities and prompting a tsunami warning. The quake, recorded by the USGS at 5:58am local time, had an epicentre 68 kilometres north-northwest of Ende, causing extensive damage and injuries. Authorities urged coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground.

Netanyahu rejects a US-led Gaza plan, distancing himself from Trump to solidify support ahead of elections.