Here are some of today's news highlights¹:

- *Global Conflict*: The Israel-Iran conflict continues to escalate, with both countries exchanging strikes and sparking fears of a wider war. Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran, targeting Tehran's defense ministry headquarters, while Iran responded with drone and missile strikes against Israel.

- *Stock Market*: Despite the rising tensions in West Asia, the Indian stock market rose sharply on Monday, with the Sensex up 680 points and Nifty near 24,650. IT, metal, and realty stocks rallied, while oil prices slipped after a 7% surge on Friday.

- *Aviation Disruption*: The conflict has disrupted flights globally, with over 6,000 flights canceled in two days. Airspace closures in six countries have affected Indian flights, and airlines like Lufthansa, Air India, and Emirates have rerouted or suspended flights.

- *US Politics*: Former US President Trump has denied involvement in the current Israel-Iran conflict, stating that the US is "not at this moment" involved in military action. Trump also reportedly vetoed an Israeli bid to assassinate Iran's supreme leader.

- *Sports*: PSG thrashed Atletico Madrid 4-0 in the Club World Cup opener, while Nigerian footballer Osimhen accepted a €195m deal with Al-Hilal, with medical tests set in Paris.

Some other news includes² ³:

- *Business*: Dangote Refinery is set to begin nationwide petrol and diesel supply on August 15, while Fidelity Bank denied allegations of a ₦5bn bribe.

- *Politics*: Nigerian politicians Buni and Zulum endorsed President Tinubu's second-term bid, while Sowore claimed the APC controls all, leaving no opposition.