Archived edition · August 17, 2026 Today's news →

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Omiš Fire Damage Revealed, Arson Probe Escalates with Terrorism Angle

A comprehensive assessment of the recent Omiš fire has been released, detailing the destruction of 106 vehicles, 28 houses, and 45 boats. Concurrently, the Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organized Crime (USKOK) has taken charge of the investigation into suspicious fires near Benkovac, now exploring the possibility of terrorism-related offenses.

Adding to the day's significant developments, the body of the Italian tennis club president, who had been missing, was discovered on Cres Island. Meanwhile, a new report highlights the substantial financial burden of a seven-day holiday on the Adriatic coast, costing up to three average monthly salaries for Croatian citizens.

In other news, provisional results for the European Parliament elections show the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) securing six mandates, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) four, and the Homeland Movement (DP) and We Can! (Možemo!) each winning one. Sports news includes javelin thrower Sara Kolak's emotional gold medal win, Hajduk's Marko Livaja scoring a winning goal, and Dinamo's inability to register new players for an upcoming match. Additionally, severe storms and hail are forecast following a period of heat.

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Omiš Fire Damage Assessed

A detailed damage assessment for the massive fire near Omiš has been released by the Split-Dalmatia County prefect, revealing that 106 vehicles, 28 houses, and 45 boats were completely destroyed.

Arson Investigation Escalates, USKOK Probes Terrorism Link

Croatia's Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organized Crime (USKOK) has taken over the investigation into suspicious fires near Benkovac, examining whether elements of a terrorism-related criminal offense are present. This follows the apprehension of suspects in the Zadar area.

Political Landscape and European Parliament Election Results

Political commentary suggests the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) could still win future elections despite ongoing issues, while Prime Minister Andrej Plenković faces scrutiny over the Gospić crisis. Provisional results for the European Parliament elections show HDZ with six seats, SDP with four, and DP and Možemo! with one each.

Sports Highlights: Gold for Kolak, Livaja's Winning Goal

Javelin thrower Sara Kolak expressed her emotions after winning a gold medal, while Marko Livaja was the hero for Hajduk, scoring the winning goal. Separately, football club Dinamo will not be able to register new players for their crucial match against Viking.

Severe Storms and Hail Expected

Following a period of heat, Croatia is preparing for a significant weather change, with forecasts predicting strong storms and hail in various regions.

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