Summary‍

Israel launched pre-emptive airstrikes in southern Lebanon, sparking rocket retaliation from Hezbollah before both sides backed off, avoiding immediate escalation. Telegram founder Pavel Durov was arrested in Paris on charges related to money laundering and drug trafficking through his platform. Hurricane Hone struck Hawaii’s Big Island with 85 mph winds, leading to flash flood warnings. A Syrian suspect confessed to a recent stabbing in Germany that killed three and injured eight, raising concerns about potential ties to the Islamic State. Arizona’s National Guard rescued over 100 people from flash floods in Grand Canyon National Park, but search efforts continue for a missing hiker.

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Today's Script

Good morning everybody! My name is Gabe, today is Monday, August 26th, and you're listening to Current2, brought to you by Just Bagels! Use code “News” for 10% off at JustBagels.com.

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In Must Know News:

• Israel launched several “pre-emptive” airstrikes across southern Lebanon early Sunday morning after reportedly detecting a Hezbollah plan for a “large-scale” attack, with the Iran-backed militant group returning fire with over 300 rockets at drones in retaliation; however, both sides have since backed off, and the world now holds its breath another day under the threat of all-out war in the region. 
• Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the messaging app Telegram, was detained and arrested at a Paris airport Sunday on charges alleging his platform has been used for money laundering and drug trafficking among other offenses. Yeesh! What’s more, Durov reportedly had been traveling on his private jet from Azerbaijan at the time. Kinda the opposite of rags to riches… 
• Hurricane Hone went past Hawaii this weekend, hitting its Big Island with winds up to 85 miles per hour that sent heavy rains pouring over residents and led officials to enact a flash flood warning through mid-Sunday afternoon and a high wind warning that would remain in effect for certain areas until 6 o’clock Monday morning. 
• One of the suspects in the recent German stabbing confessed, according to authorities. The suspect, a 26 year old Syrian man, admitted to killing 3 and injuring 8 as investigators look for potential ties to the Islamic State. The incident, as well as the militant group’s claims of responsibility, have shaken German politicians as they urge for better security and weapons restrictions.
• Arizona’s national guard has rescued more than 100 after flash floods ripped through Grand Canyon National Park. However, some were not so lucky. Hiker Chenoa Nickerson of Arizona was reportedly swept away by the floods, and search and rescue operations remain ongoing. 

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That’s all for today, folks! If you liked this episode, make sure to share it with your friends. Have a happy Monday, and thanks for listening to Current2, the easy way to stay informed!

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Sources:

Israel uses “pre-emptive” strikes. World continues to hold its breath (NBC, AP)

Telegram app founder detained and arrested (AP)

Hurricane Hone passes Hawaii (Axios)

German stabbing suspect confesses (Reuters)

Flash Floods rip through the Grand Canyon (CNN)