A record-breaking lightning megaflash, stretching 829 kilometres, stunned scientists after occurring during a thunderstorm between Texas and Kansas City in 2017. Confirmed by the WMO, this event surpassed the previous record and highlights the dangers of megaflashes, which can strike far from storm cores. Satellite technology has improved detection, leading to better understanding and warnings.
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Qatar has enacted a new cybercrime law amendment, effective August 4, 2025, imposing strict penalties for unauthorized sharing of images or videos online. Violators face imprisonment up to one year and fines up to QR100,000 for infringing on individual privacy. This measure complements existing data protection laws, strengthening personal data safeguards in the digital sphere.
The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme, reviewed by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, aims to empower Emirati families through financial, social, and educational support. Aligned with Dubai Social Agenda 33, it has boosted marriage rates, offered housing and wedding aid, and fostered youth stability. Leaders praised its impact in building strong, value-driven, and future-ready households.
Donald Trump asserted that late-night hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel, and Jimmy Fallon lack talent and predicted their shows' cancellation. Trump referenced Colbert's program termination, attributing it to a lack of talent and anticipating similar fates for Fallon and Kimmel. He also commented on Howard Stern's declining influence after Stern supported Hillary Clinton.
In a city where even startups go to die, Saikat Chakrabarti is trying to revive something far more difficult: the soul of the Democratic Party. The 39-year-old Indian-American political organiser, best known as the architect behind Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s stunning 2018 win, has now trained his sights on a political Goliath — Nancy Pelosi, the longest-serving member of Congress from California.
Kuwaiti authorities dismantled a major drug distribution network, seizing over 800,000 Lyrica capsules. The operation was directed by an inmate from Central Prison, utilizing air freight from Asia and a rented livestock enclosure for storage and repackaging. This bust highlights Kuwait's commitment to combating international narcotics syndicates and safeguarding public health by intercepting illicit drug flows.
Kuwait is bracing for an intense heatwave this weekend, with temperatures predicted to soar to 50°C in many areas. Coastal regions will experience humidity and winds up to 45 km/h, potentially causing dust storms and reduced visibility. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor activities during midday, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions to mitigate health risks.
Vice President JD Vance embraced his portrayal on South Park as Donald Trump's subservient aide, even after being depicted in a demeaning manner. The episode, which satirizes the Trump administration, features Vance as a baby-faced figure who eagerly seeks Trump's approval, even in bizarre scenarios involving Satan.
Dubai introduced the first AI-generated “Emirati Family” to deliver government messages and promote digital services in an accessible way. This reflects Dubai’s position as a top-five global AI city. The project aims to engage all communities by combining Emirati culture with advanced AI, supporting the city’s goal of improving public interaction with smart government services.
Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade surged 34.7% in H1 2025 to AED195.4 billion (USD53.2 billion), driven by strong export, import, and re-export growth. The rise reflects successful diversification efforts, advanced infrastructure, and streamlined trade systems. Strategic investments and global trade partnerships continue to position the emirate as a key international trade and logistics hub.