38 Dead in Indonesia Earthquake
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off eastern Indonesia on August 15, 2026, killing at least 38 people and triggering widespread evacuations. The quake, which was followed by several aftershocks, caused severe structural damage, power outages, and landslides across East Nusa Tenggara. Residents in several areas reported shaking lasting about one minute, with many fleeing their homes in panic.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that tsunami waves of less than 1 meter were recorded in several areas, but the tsunami warning was lifted about three hours after the quake. The agency’s head, Suharyanto, confirmed the death toll and stated that many people were injured and displaced.
The earthquake was felt across East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, and parts of South Sulawesi, with residents in several areas reporting extensive damage to houses, warehouses, and government facilities. About 2,000 residents in Nagekeo were evacuated, and authorities reported traffic congestion and power outages.
This disaster comes as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and tsunamis, due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Indonesian geophysics agency BMKG recorded the first quake at 4:58 a.m. at a depth of 15 km, followed by several aftershocks.
The situation in East Nusa Tenggara remains dire, with many residents still waiting for aid and assistance. The international community is urged to provide support and assistance to those affected by the disaster.
This earthquake is reminiscent of previous natural disasters in the region, such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness and response.
India Independence Day 2026: Modi's Vision for Developed India
Modi Unveils 2047 Goal for Developed India on 80th Independence Day
On India's 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort, outlining his vision for a developed India by 2047. Modi emphasized the importance of self-reliance, highlighting significant growth in domestic manufacturing, digital transactions, and defense production over the past decade. He noted that defense production had increased nearly fourfold, while output from Khadi and village industries had grown almost fivefold, and electronics manufacturing had expanded nearly sevenfold.
Modi's speech focused on the need for India to become self-reliant and protect its interests, citing initiatives such as Make in India, Swadeshi, and Vocal for Local as key drivers of this vision. He also pointed to the expansion of metro networks, public transport, and the delivery of basic amenities like tap-water and gas connections, toilets, and housing for underprivileged families. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that India would achieve its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, urging citizens to work collectively towards this ambition.
The ceremony at the Red Fort included the hoisting of the National Flag, synchronized with a 21-gun salute by the ceremonial gunners of the 1721 Field Battery. As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, Modi's vision for a developed India by 2047 has set a new trajectory for the nation's growth and development.
In his address, Modi emphasized the importance of dreaming big and working collectively to achieve ambitious goals. He stated that nations achieve greatness when they are driven by dreams, determination, and inherent strength, adding that "small dreams will no longer suffice" and urging Indians to broaden their vision. With India poised to become the world's most populous country, its ambition to become a developed nation is expected to draw global attention.
As the country moves forward on the strength of its dreams, Modi's vision for a developed India by 2047 marks a significant milestone in its journey towards self-reliance and economic growth. The emphasis on regulatory modernization, including the elimination of thousands of compliance requirements and the repeal of hundreds of outdated laws, is expected to further accelerate India's development.
Dubai Parking Subscription Savings
Is a Parkin Subscription Cheaper for Dubai Commuters?
If you're a frequent user of Dubai's public parking, you might be wondering if a Parkin subscription can help you save money. The answer depends on where, when, and how often you park. Dubai's public parking rates vary by zone and parking type, ranging from Dh2.10 to Dh6.30 an hour. Parkin subscriptions start from Dh262.50 a month, but prices vary depending on the location and type of subscription.
To determine if a Parkin subscription is cheaper for you, you need to calculate your usual monthly parking costs and compare them to the subscription price for your specific area. For example, if you park for eight hours a day, five days a week in a Zone A area at Dh4.20 an hour, you would spend around Dh672 a month without a subscription. A Zone A monthly parking subscription costs Dh525, meaning you could save around Dh145 a month by opting for the subscription.
However, a subscription is not automatically cheaper for every driver. The potential savings depend on where you park, how long you park for, and whether the location you use is covered by Parkin's subscription options. If you use cheaper Zone C or D parking, paying as you go could cost less than a subscription. Additionally, if you only park for one or two hours a day, paying for individual sessions may still be cheaper.
A Parkin subscription can also help you avoid parking fines by reducing the risk of forgetting to activate or renew a parking session. However, it does not make you exempt from Dubai's parking rules, and you still need to check that your chosen location is covered by your subscription.
Before buying a Parkin subscription, consider the following factors:
- Where you park: Parking costs vary by zone, and paying as you go could be cheaper if you use Zone C or D parking.
- How long you park: If you only park for short periods, paying for individual sessions may be more affordable.
- Where you can use the subscription: Check that your subscription covers the areas you regularly park in.
- Who benefits most: A subscription is worth considering if you drive to work most weekdays and leave your car parked for several hours.
To get the most out of a Parkin subscription, make sure you understand the terms and conditions, including the zones and parking types covered, and the subscription duration. By calculating your potential savings and considering your parking habits, you can decide if a Parkin subscription is the right choice for you.
Next steps:
- Check the Parkin subscription map to see if your regular parking areas are covered.
- Calculate your usual monthly parking costs and compare them to the subscription price for your specific area.
- Consider your parking habits and the factors that affect your potential savings.
Dubai iDeclare App: Declare Items Electronically
Simplify Your Arrival in Dubai with iDeclare App
If you're planning a trip to Dubai, it's essential to understand the customs declaration process to avoid any issues during your arrival. Dubai Customs has made it easier for travelers to declare goods, cash, and restricted items electronically before arriving in Dubai through their iDeclare platform. This guide will walk you through the process of using the iDeclare app to submit your customs declaration and save time at the airport.
Dubai Customs is the government authority responsible for inspecting and monitoring luggage and passengers, collecting duties on restricted or commercial goods, and preventing illegal practices at Dubai's airports. The customs zone or area of jurisdiction at Dubai Airports begins right after the completion of passport control procedures, managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) at the Arrivals Hall, until the passenger leaves the customs gates.
When you pass through the red or green channel at Dubai Airports, you're making a customs declaration. The red channel is for passengers who have goods, currency, or restricted items to declare, while the green channel is for those who have no prohibited, restricted, or dutiable goods to declare. The declaration can be made verbally, in writing, or electronically through the iDeclare app.
To declare items electronically before arriving in Dubai, you can use the iDeclare app, which was launched by Dubai Customs in 2018. The app allows you to register your information electronically, ahead of your arrival in the UAE, and save time at the airport. By submitting your customs declaration ahead of time, you can reduce wait times and enhance security and compliance by providing up-to-date information to the authorities.
Here's how to submit your customs declaration with the iDeclare app:
- Download the iDeclare app via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- On the home screen, tap the 'Check Eligibility' button and select the items you want to bring into the UAE.
- If you are eligible for customs declaration, you will receive a prompt to 'Declare Now'.
- Sign up to register with your full name, passport number, date of birth, address, and other personal details.
- Once you sign up, you can access your Dashboard, where you can select 'Create Declaration' and choose the declaration type, such as goods import, temporary admission, or currency import.
- Enter your flight number, date of arrival, port of loading, port of discharge, and address, and upload any relevant documents.
If you're a traveler carrying goods, cash, or restricted items, it's essential to use the iDeclare app to declare them electronically before arriving in Dubai. This will help you avoid any issues during your arrival and save time at the airport. The app is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it a convenient option for travelers.
In addition to using the iDeclare app, it's also important to understand the customs rules and regulations in Dubai. The Dubai Customs Authority has set out guidelines for permitted, controlled, and prohibited items, and it's essential to familiarize yourself with these guidelines before traveling to Dubai.
By using the iDeclare app and understanding the customs rules and regulations, you can ensure a hassle-free journey through Dubai's airports. Remember to declare all items accurately and truthfully to avoid any issues during your arrival.
Council Blocks France's Under‑15 Social Media Ban
France's Top Court Nixes Under‑15 Social Media Ban, Reform Due by 2027
On August 14, 2026, France's Constitutional Council blocked the draft law that would have barred social‑media access for anyone under 15.
Who It Affects
The proposal targeted children younger than 15, forcing them off platforms such as Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. It also would have required every user, including adults, to prove their age before logging in, a burden the Council said lacked clear safeguards. With the bill halted, no new obligations apply to minors or adult users for now.The Council’s decision did not mention any monetary penalties or enforcement fines.
What Comes Next
President Emmanuel Macron has instructed Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to rewrite the legislation, aiming to have a compliant version ready before the spring 2027 presidential election, according to a statement from the Élysée.
£6bn Deal Gives Bezos One-Third Stake in Liverpool FC
Liverpool FC Sells One-Third Stake in £5‑6bn Valuation to Bezos‑Led Consortium
Fenway Sports Group has agreed to sell roughly one‑third of Liverpool Football Club to a consortium headed by British‑Indian investor Amit Bhatia, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co‑founder Eduardo Saverin. The transaction values the Premier League side between £5 billion and £6 billion, with the deal itself reported at about £6 billion.
The sale follows FSG’s stated aim of bolstering the club’s long‑term growth by tapping global expertise in technology, finance and investment. “Liverpool has always been built by thinking beyond one season… that approach continues to attract interest from respected investors,” FSG president Mike Gordon said. The consortium will work alongside FSG and the club’s leadership to evaluate opportunities that enhance objectives on and off the pitch, while FSG retains majority ownership and operational control.
For the investors, the upside is clear. Bezos, through his venture‑capital vehicle K5 Sports, and Saverin’s network bring deep digital and financial know‑how that could modernise fan engagement, data analytics and commercial partnerships. Bhatia, who will serve as vice‑chairman, adds football‑boardroom experience from his 18‑year tenure as co‑owner of QPR. The infusion of capital and expertise arrives as Liverpool prepares for a new Premier League campaign starting on August 23, after a disappointing fifth‑place finish and the recent dismissal of manager Arne Slot. Early spending of around £94 million on players such as Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz suggests the club is already seeking to strengthen the squad; the new backing could accelerate that process.
The deal also carries constraints. Bezos will not join the expanded board, limiting his direct influence on football decisions. FSG’s retention of majority control means the consortium’s role is advisory rather than decisive. Moreover, the club’s recent on‑field struggles and a managerial change introduce performance risk that any investor must bear. The valuation range of £5‑6 billion reflects both the club’s historic brand strength and the uncertainty surrounding its immediate competitive outlook.
Overall, the transaction marks a rare entry of a U.S. tech billionaire into European football ownership, while preserving the existing ownership structure that has guided Liverpool’s resurgence since 2010. The partnership is positioned as a catalyst for sustained growth, but its impact will hinge on how effectively the consortium’s expertise translates into measurable improvements for the club’s sporting and commercial performance.
