At least 19 people have died in devastating wildfires raging across central and southern Chile. President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of emergency due to the catastrophic fires, fueled by dry conditions and soaring temperatures. Thousands of hectares of forest have been consumed, with Valparaiso particularly affected. Evacuations have been ordered, and a curfew imposed to aid responders. The death toll is expected to rise as authorities assess the damage. The blazes, exacerbated by a summer heatwave and drought, highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat wildfires and mitigate their devastating impact.

Two Ukrainian attack drones struck the Volgograd oil refinery, the largest in southern Russia, in a series of long-range attacks on Russian oil facilities. The operation, attributed to the SBU security service, targeted the primary processing facility, threatening significant production capacity. While local authorities confirmed a fire had been extinguished, owner Lukoil had no immediate comment. Ukrainian officials, though seldom claiming responsibility publicly, view such strikes as vital in impeding the Kremlin's war effort. With distances exceeding 600km between Ukrainian and Russian cities, such attacks highlight Ukraine's efforts to counter Moscow's military prowess. Amidst escalating conflict, Ukraine continues to innovate in drone technology to retaliate effectively.

Poonam Pandey ignited fury on social media after her team falsely announced her death due to cervical cancer, only to reveal she was alive the next day. The model-actor's attempt to raise awareness about cervical cancer backfired as netizens condemned the stunt. Criticism flooded social media, with users labeling it the "worst PR stunt" and accusing Pandey of exploiting a serious issue for cheap publicity. Despite her subsequent promotion of cervical cancer awareness, many expressed disappointment and disbelief at the hoax. Pandey's credibility took a hit as social media users voiced their disdain for her controversial tactics.

The US launched major airstrikes on 85 targets across seven locations in Iraq and Syria, targeting Iranian-backed militias responsible for attacks on US troops. The strikes were in response to a drone attack on a US military outpost in Jordan that killed three service members. President Biden warned of continued military response "at times and places of our choosing." The strikes mark a significant escalation, aiming to deter further attacks while avoiding full-scale conflict with Iran. Iraq and Syria condemned the strikes, citing sovereignty violations, while Iran warned of escalating tensions. Mixed messages from militia groups add to the complexity of the situation.

professor and five students from Pune University were arrested for staging a controversial play based on the epic Ramayan, causing outrage over objectionable scenes, including one depicting Sita smoking. The RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad lodged a complaint, leading to charges under section 295(A) of the Indian Penal Code. The play sparked a scuffle between ABVP members and students. Police arrested the head of the Lalit Kala Kendra department and students involved. The incident highlights tensions surrounding artistic interpretations of religious texts, particularly those with cultural significance like the Ramayana.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken legal action after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal skipped his fifth summons in the alleged liquor policy scandal. Kejriwal, who has consistently labeled the summonses as illegal, faces complaints under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The Rouse Avenue court in New Delhi will address the case on Wednesday. Speculation swirls around Kejriwal's potential arrest, as two other AAP leaders were previously detained in connection with the case. The AAP denounced the ED's actions as politically motivated. Kejriwal had previously been questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation without being charged.

Former Deputy Prime Minister and BJP stalwart LK Advani expressed profound gratitude after being awarded the Bharat Ratna by PM Modi. "With utmost humility and gratitude, I accept the Bharat Ratna that has been conferred on me today," Advani said, calling it an honor for his ideals. He credited his family, saying, "I also express my deepest feelings for all members of my family, especially my dear departed wife Kamla." Reflecting on his journey, he stated, "Ever since I joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh as its volunteer at the age of 14, I have sought reward in only one thing – in dedicated and selfless service of my beloved country."

During the trial of Jennifer Crumbley, mother of the Oxford High School shooter, revelations emerged of her alleged involvement in sex parties with a firefighter chief, Brian Meloche. Prosecutors detailed how Jennifer and Brian used the app Adult Friend Finder to arrange hotel meet-ups with strangers. Meanwhile, Michigan prosecutors argued Jennifer failed to act on warning signs of her son Ethan's mental state, suggesting her culpability in the tragedy. Defense countered, asserting Jennifer had no knowledge of Ethan's intentions. The trial continues, shedding light on the complex dynamics surrounding the case of the first parents facing felony charges for their child's school shooting in the US.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to seven years in jail for an unlawful marriage, deemed 'un-Islamic' by a Pakistan court. This marks Khan's fourth conviction since 2022, adding to his challenges ahead of the general elections. The case, filed by Bibi's ex-husband Khawar Maneka, alleged violation of Islamic practices, including the absence of the mandatory pause between marriages. The court also fined the couple Rs 5,00,000 each. Khan, currently serving time for other convictions, denounced the verdict, claiming it was intended to humiliate him and his spouse.

Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah etched his name in the record books by becoming the fastest Indian bowler to claim 150 Test wickets during the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam. Bumrah's fiery spell saw him dismantle England's batting lineup, including a mesmerizing delivery that left Ben Stokes clueless. His milestone, achieved in just 34 Test matches, surpassed previous records set by Indian bowlers. With a stunning performance of 6 for 45, Bumrah showcased his prowess, securing his 10th five-wicket haul. This remarkable feat solidifies Bumrah's stature as one of the finest bowlers in contemporary cricket.