The most significant news stories at the start of August 2025 include new economic turmoil after a wave of tariffs imposed by President Trump, a major manhunt for a mass shooting suspect in Montana, and heightened global concerns involving Gaza and the UK.
President Trump implemented a series of sweeping tariffs that have shaken financial markets and may lead to higher prices for back-to-school shoppers and other consumers. The political fallout from economic weakness was immediate, as a key government official in the Labor Department was fired after a disappointing jobs report revealed new peaks in unemployment[1][2][3].
Meanwhile, the economy is in a state of flux: several major companies are planning price increases in response to the tariffs, and there are growing worries about a weakening job market[2][3]. Additionally, signs point to additional pressure on households as the new tariffs take effect just before the school year[2].
On the world stage, there are reports of more aid-seekers in Gaza being killed by Israeli forces, with the region’s hunger crisis deepening. Diplomatic efforts continue as U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff visits hostage families in Israel[2][3].
Domestically, Cincinnati has increased police presence after a violent brawl caused national outrage, prompting concerns over local security[2].
Other notable headlines include the federal probe into former Special Counsel Jack Smith over the Trump investigations, the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s newest inductees, Canadian wildfires affecting air quality, and a California man arrested on terror-related charges for allegedly sending money to ISIS[2].
For science and skywatching, NASA notes that August’s Perseid meteor shower will be hard to view this year due to a near-full Moon, though Jupiter, Venus, and Mars will all be visible at various times overnight[7].