Donald Trump pledged to secure the release of Jimmy Lai, the jailed Hong Kong media tycoon, vowing to raise the issue with Xi Jinping during trade negotiations. Lai, a critic of China's Communist Party, faces charges under the national security law. His case has drawn international attention, with supporters expressing concern for his health and advocating for his freedom.

Donald Trump suggested that secondary tariffs on India, impacting Russian oil sales, might have influenced Vladimir Putin's decision to meet him in Alaska. Trump aims for a quick peace deal in Ukraine, potentially involving Volodymyr Zelenskyy in future talks. Increased tariffs on Indian imports have drawn strong objections, highlighting the complex global dynamics surrounding the US-Russia relationship.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, due to escalating violence and drug trafficking, particularly driven by fentanyl. The declaration allocates $750,000 to bolster local law enforcement and emergency management. This action follows rising concerns from local and tribal leaders about the overwhelming impact on communities and resources.

Hunter Biden has dismissed Melania Trump's threat to sue him for $1 billion over his claims linking her to Jeffrey Epstein. Biden asserted that Epstein introduced Melania to Donald Trump, a claim the Trumps deny. Melania's legal team demanded a retraction, citing reputational harm.

Senator Lindsey Graham, addressing Republican evangelicals, staunchly defended Israel, asserting its right to self-defense and highlighting the existential threats it faces. He warned that abandoning Israel would have dire consequences for the United States, invoking divine repercussions. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined plans for a broader Gaza offensive, emphasizing opportunities for Palestinian civilians to evacuate combat zones.

Vladimir Putin praised the Trump administration's efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict, suggesting potential nuclear arms control agreements during their Alaska summit. Discussions will encompass the Ukraine war, trade cooperation, and economic matters. Despite ongoing tensions, both leaders aim to establish lasting peace, with Trump warning of severe consequences if the war persists.

Arab nations have strongly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's apparent endorsement of a "Greater Israel," viewing it as a threat to their sovereignty. Netanyahu's remarks, suggesting an expanded Israel encompassing parts of Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, have sparked condemnation from Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, and Qatar.

Asha Jadeja Motwani, an Indian-origin venture capitalist, advises New Delhi to improve relations with Donald Trump to reduce tariffs. She suggests India should express warmth, encourage significant US investments, finalize defense purchases, and reduce reliance on Russian energy. ​Trump imposed a 25 per cent penalty on India in addition to 25 per cent tariff for buying Russian oil. The new tariffs are set to come into effect on August 27 and US negotiators are expected to go to India on...

​After Alaska was announced as the summit spot, Bolton expressed his opinion on several news channels, social media, newspapers and, to summarize, he called the Alaska summit an advantage for Putin. He said Putin being welcomed to America is a step towards his victory and Trump has offered the first victory to him.

USCIS is intensifying scrutiny of signatures on H-1B petitions, leading to increased denials due to non-compliant signatures. The agency is rejecting petitions with electronically inserted, duplicated, or non-original ink signatures. Immigration law offices are advising petitioners to ensure all signatures are handwritten and original, as USCIS doesn't allow corrections for deficient signatures.

Micherre Fox, a New York woman, unearthed a stunning 2.3-carat diamond at Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park after a three-week search. Planning to use it in her engagement ring, Fox named the gem the Fox-Ballou Diamond. The park, a unique public diamond site, has yielded over 350 diamonds this year, offering visitors a chance to discover their own treasures.

Wakan Village in Oman is experiencing a tourism boom, with visitor numbers climbing over 13% in the first seven months of 2025. The village's appeal lies in its mild mountain climate, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. Tourists are drawn to the area's hiking trails, ancient agricultural terraces, and seasonal fruit harvests, making Wakan a sought-after eco-tourism destination.

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil, has responded to Donald Trump's remarks. Trump criticized the Brazilian judiciary. Lula stated Trump would face trial in Brazil for a similar incident like the Capitol riot. This comes after Trump sanctioned a Brazilian judge and imposed tariffs. Jair Bolsonaro, the former president, faces charges.

The Emirates Esports Federation has joined the World Phygital Community (WPC) as its 100th member, marking a major milestone in the growth of phygital sports. This comes ahead of Abu Dhabi hosting the Games of the Future 2025, where global athletes will compete across 11 hybrid physical-digital disciplines for a $5 million prize pool, showcasing the UAE’s leadership in innovative sports.

A tragic incident unfolded in Kuwait. Thirteen Asian expatriate workers died due to toxic alcohol. Sixty-three cases of poisoning are reported. Many are critically ill and hospitalised. The source is traced to illicit alcohol in Al Shuyoukh. Investigations are underway to dismantle the production network. Authorities are warning against consuming unregulated drinks. Embassies are supporting their nationals.