Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid says that yesterday's airstrike by the United States killed civilians and that if "there was any potential threat in Afghanistan, it should have been reported to us, not an arbitrary attack that has resulted in civilian casualties". (The Washington Post)(Reuters)
China's General Administration of Press and Publication announces new regulations prohibiting youth under the age of 18 years old from playing online video games for more than three hours per week, citing physical and mental health concerns. Playing of online video games will only be allowed between 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm on weekends and holidays. (CNBC)
The Philippines reports a record 22,366 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, thereby bringing the nationwide total of confirmed cases to 1,976,202. (Rappler)
Vietnam reports a record 14,224 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, thereby bringing the nationwide total of confirmed cases to 449,489. (Viet Nam News)
Scientists in South Africa detect a new variant of SARS-CoV-2 called C.1.2 which is associated with increased transmissibility and the ability to evade antibodies. The variant was first identified in Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces and has spread to seven countries as of August 13. (Bloomberg)
Armed gang members take hostages during their getaway following three bank robberies in Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. Three people are killed during the incident, including two civilians and one of the robbers. Four other people are wounded, including one during an explosion. Three suspects have been arrested. (BBC News)
Kira Yarmysh, the official spokeswoman for incarcerated Russian activist Alexei Navalny, leaves Russia, reportedly travelling to Helsinki, Finland, after a court sentenced her to a restriction of movements for 18 months due to alleged breaches of COVID-19 restrictions. (Reuters)