Good morning! Here are the top national, international and sports headlines for August 22, 2026. From Rahul Gandhi's protest and the E20 fuel debate to a historic badminton medal and rising Iran-US tensions, here's your quick morning news roundup.
NATIONAL

  • Rahul Gandhi stages police station dharna over pellet gun use
    Congress leader Rahul Gandhi staged a dharna at a police station, demanding an FIR over alleged pellet gun use during the July 20 protest. He sought action against those responsible and questioned the police response to the incident.
  • Two vessels carrying 22 Indians hijacked near Yemen, Somalia
    Pirates have reportedly hijacked two vessels carrying 22 Indian nationals in waters near Yemen and Somalia. Authorities are assessing the situation as efforts continue to secure the safety of those on board.
  • India begins in absentia proceedings against Hafiz Saeed, five others
    India has initiated in absentia proceedings against Hafiz Saeed and five other accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case. The move comes as authorities pursue legal action against key figures linked to the deadly attacks.
  • Congress seeks review of E20 policy, calls fuel move anti-people
    The Congress has demanded a review of the government's E20 fuel policy, calling it 'anti-people' and unacceptable. The party has raised concerns over its impact on consumers, vehicles and the broader economy.
  • Gandhi’s notes on truth, ahimsa fetch record Rs 16.2 crore at auction
    Mahatma Gandhi's handwritten daily notes on truth and ahimsa have fetched a record Rs 16.2 crore at an auction. The historic papers drew intense interest, underscoring their rare cultural and historical significance.
  • Supreme Court makes bail final for 105-year-old murder convict
    The Supreme Court has made bail final for a 105-year-old murder convict and waived the remaining portion of his sentence. The decision came after the court considered his advanced age and the circumstances of the case.

WORLD

  • Iran warns of 'devastating' response as US threatens tougher economic action
    Iran has warned of a 'devastating' response after the United States threatened its toughest-ever economic measures. The escalating rhetoric has heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington amid growing regional uncertainty.
  • China rejects US call to isolate Iran, opposes sanctions and pressure
    China has rejected Washington's call to isolate Iran, saying sanctions and pressure will not resolve the conflict. Beijing has instead urged dialogue and diplomatic efforts to address the escalating tensions.

SPORTS

  • Treesa-Gayatri end 15-year wait with historic BWF Worlds medal
    Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand have ended India's 15-year wait for a women's doubles medal at the BWF World Championships. Their historic achievement marks India's first women's doubles medal at the tournament since 2011.
  • PV Sindhu, Ayush Shetty bow out as India’s BWF Worlds singles campaign ends
    India's singles campaign at the BWF World Championships has ended after PV Sindhu and Ayush Shetty suffered defeats. The exits leave the country's hopes resting on its remaining doubles contenders at the prestigious tournament.

That's all for today's headlines. Stay informed, stay curious and have a fantastic day ahead!