president donald trump
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US President Donald Trump backtracks on promise allowing Ukraine to produce Patriot missiles

US President Donald Trump has walked back his previous offer to grant Ukraine a license to domestically produce Patriot interceptor missiles, stating during a Cabinet meeting at Camp David that the United States has “not agreed” to share the technology.

Trump expressed caution over transferring sensitive defense hardware, warning that “they can someday turn on you” and emphasising the need to safeguard advanced military systems.

The reversal comes just three weeks after Trump publicly promised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a NATO summit in Ankara that Washington would grant Kyiv the manufacturing rights to build the air defense interceptors.

Although Zelensky recently stated after a White House visit that the production licensing had been approved, Trump clarified that no final commitment has been made. The decision arrives as Kyiv faces intensified Russian drone and ballistic missile strikes, with Ukrainian military officials warning that critical shortages of Patriot interceptors are severely compromising their air defense capabilities.

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    Jaffna Kings outclass Kandy Royals by 21 runs in LPL 2026

    Shakib Al Hasan delivered an outstanding all-round performance to guide Jaffna Kings to a 21-run victory over Kandy Royals in the 18th match of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Defending a formidable target of 222, Jaffna Kings dismissed Kandy Royals for 200 on the final delivery of the innings to secure an important win. The Royals made a flying start to their chase, with openers Pawan Sandesh and Lahiru Igalagamage putting immediate pressure on the bowling attack. The pair raced to a 40-run partnership within the first three overs, setting the tone for an aggressive pursuit of the target. Sandesh played an entertaining knock of 48, while Igalagamage contributed 15 before the opening stand was broken. Kandy Royals maintained a healthy scoring rate during the first half of the innings, keeping themselves in contention. However, the momentum shifted dramatically once the spin duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Dunith Wellalage came into the attack. The experienced bowlers tightened the scoring and struck at crucial intervals, reducing the Royals to 112-4 and putting Jaffna firmly back in control. Captain Wanindu Hasaranga attempted to revive the chase with a quickfire 24 off just 12 deliveries, smashing three sixes in an attacking cameo. His aggressive innings briefly raised hopes of a late comeback, but Shakib dismissed the Royals skipper in the 18th over, effectively ending the contest. Shakib and Wellalage claimed three wickets each to lead the bowling effort, while Dilshan Madushanka and Zahoor Khan chipped in with two wickets apiece to complete the victory. Earlier, Jaffna Kings produced an explosive batting display after being asked to bat first, finishing with an imposing total of 221-6 in their allotted 20 overs. Openers Kamil Mishara and Avishka Fernando laid the perfect platform with a blistering 95-run partnership inside the opening seven overs. Mishara narrowly missed out on a half-century, scoring 49 with the help of five sixes and two boundaries. Fernando added 36 from 22 balls, striking three fours and a six before leaving the field as a substitute. Although the Royals managed to regain some control through a series of quick wickets, reducing Jaffna to 139-5 in the 15th over, the innings received a powerful finish from Shakib Al Hasan and Chamindu Wickramasinghe. The pair added 59 runs in just 23 deliveries, lifting the Kings beyond the 220-run mark. Wickramasinghe played a breathtaking innings of 43 from only 15 balls, hammering four sixes and three boundaries. Shakib remained composed at the other end, contributing 22 runs from 16 deliveries, including one six and one four. For Kandy Royals, Moeen Ali and Wanindu Hasaranga were the standout bowlers, taking two wickets each. Pakistan left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, however, endured a difficult outing, finishing wicketless after conceding 43 runs in his three overs. The comprehensive victory strengthened Jaffna Kings’ campaign, with Shakib Al Hasan making a decisive impact with both bat and ball in a memorable all-round performance.

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    Mir Raza allegedly kidnapped and tortured for 12 h…

    KARACHI: The investigation into the death of young businessman Mir Raza has taken a new turn after his family’s lawyer, Jibran Nasir, claimed that the victim was allegedly abducted and tortured for around 12 hours before he was killed. Speaking at a press conference alongside Mir Raza’s parents at their residence, Nasir said information gathered during the investigation had raised serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the businessman’s death. According to the lawyer, CCTV footage showing Mir Raza emerged on July 28, while his body was recovered the following day. Nasir said a chemical analysis report from the University of Karachi found evidence of acid on the victim’s clothing, along with what he described as a bullet mark from the rear side of the shirt. Nasir further claimed that the condition of Mir Raza’s face was not simply the result of decomposition but may have been caused by acid. He also alleged that the victim was given a local anesthetic or another substance that caused him to become unconscious. The lawyer said the body appeared to have been dead for approximately 20 to 22 hours when it was recovered. Based on that estimated timeline, he argued that Mir Raza may have remained in captivity for around 12 hours before his death. Nasir alleged that the businessman was abducted during that period and subjected to torture. These claims have not yet been independently established and remain part of the allegations surrounding the investigation. The lawyer also raised questions about Mir Raza’s digital devices and financial activity. He claimed that someone had accessed the victim’s phone and emptied a cryptocurrency account, allegedly in an attempt to create an impression that Mir Raza had been facing financial difficulties or was in debt. Nasir further questioned the handling of key evidence, claiming that the station house officer was carrying the digital video recorder (DVR), while Mir Raza’s smartwatch and mobile phone were reportedly in the possession of other individuals. The allegations have intensified scrutiny of the investigation as Mir Raza’s family seeks answers about his final hours and the circumstances leading to his death. Investigators are expected to examine CCTV recordings, forensic reports, digital devices, financial transactions and other evidence to establish a detailed timeline. Police have yet to publicly establish the full circumstances of Mir Raza’s death or identify those responsible. The allegations made by his family’s lawyer will need to be verified through forensic evidence and the ongoing investigation.

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    Government raises petrol price despite global decl…

    The federal government has increased the price of petrol by Rs4.45 per litre, despite a reported decline in international petroleum prices, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Energy. The revised fuel prices will come into effect from August 6, 2026. The latest notification states that the new prices have been determined in line with the pricing mechanism recommended by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and approved by the federal government. Under the revised rates, the price of petrol has increased from Rs328.56 to Rs333.01 per litre, representing an increase of Rs4.45 per litre. The decision comes only a day after the government had announced lower fuel prices for August 5. In contrast, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been reduced by Rs2.00 per litre. Following the reduction, the retail price of diesel has declined from Rs385.86 to Rs383.86 per litre, providing limited relief to transport operators and commercial users who rely heavily on diesel. According to government sources, the increase in petrol prices is linked to adjustments in the petroleum levy. The government has reportedly increased the petroleum levy on high-speed diesel by Rs1.44 per litre, raising it from Rs70.86 to Rs72.30 per litre. Officials say such adjustments form part of the government’s broader fiscal strategy while maintaining the petroleum pricing framework. The announcement has drawn attention because global crude oil prices have softened in recent weeks, leading many consumers to expect a reduction in domestic fuel prices. However, local retail fuel prices are influenced by several factors in addition to international oil prices, including exchange rate fluctuations, taxes, petroleum levy, transportation costs, and other government-imposed charges. The revised fuel prices are expected to affect transportation expenses, logistics costs, and overall inflation, as petrol remains a key commodity for private motorists and commercial activities across Pakistan. The government had previously announced reduced prices for August 5, lowering petrol by Rs3.39 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs4.07 per litre. However, the latest notification revises those rates, resulting in a fresh increase in petrol prices while providing only a modest reduction in diesel prices. The new pricing structure will remain in effect until the government announces its next scheduled review of petroleum product prices.

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    Is Mawra Hocane expecting her first baby?

    Pakistani actors Mawra Hocane and Ameer Gilani are once again at the centre of social media discussion after their recent anniversary posts sparked fresh speculation that they may be expecting their first child. The rumours began circulating after the couple shared photos and videos celebrating their first wedding anniversary. Some social media users claimed Mawra appeared to be hiding a baby bump, while others pointed to what they described as a noticeable “pregnancy glow.” However, neither Mawra nor Ameer has confirmed the speculation. The couple celebrated their anniversary by sharing heartfelt messages dedicated to each other. Mawra expressed her love by describing Ameer as the light of her life and thanked him for a memorable first year of marriage. Ameer also posted a loving tribute, expressing his hope for many more years together. Mawra also shared an emotional note about the jewellery and wedding dupatta gifted to her by her mother-in-law. She described the family heirlooms as deeply meaningful and said she hoped to preserve them before eventually passing them on to the next generation. Following the anniversary celebrations, online discussions intensified, with fans closely analysing the couple’s recent public appearances and photographs. The speculation quickly spread across entertainment pages and social media platforms. Despite the growing rumours, there has been no official confirmation from the couple regarding any pregnancy. This is not the first time Mawra has faced such speculation. In the past, she publicly dismissed similar claims, making it clear that the rumours were false and asking fans not to believe unverified reports. Mawra Hocane and Ameer Gilani tied the knot on February 5, 2025, in a private wedding ceremony attended by close family members and friends. The couple later shared wedding photographs on social media, receiving widespread congratulations from fans and fellow celebrities. Before getting married, the two actors worked together in several popular television dramas, earning praise for their on-screen chemistry and becoming one of Pakistan’s most admired celebrity couples.

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    Iran considers allowing European nations to clear …

    Iran is reportedly considering allowing European countries to participate in clearing naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz, marking a potential shift in its long-standing position as diplomatic efforts continue to restore safe navigation through one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. According to multiple diplomatic sources, Iranian officials are evaluating the possibility of permitting a European-led mine-clearing operation aimed at reopening commercial shipping lanes affected by months of heightened regional tensions. If approved, the move could help restore confidence in maritime trade and improve the flow of global energy supplies. Sources familiar with the discussions said the proposed policy change is intended to facilitate the safe passage of commercial vessels and oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for international oil and liquefied natural gas exports. The waterway has remained under increased scrutiny due to ongoing security concerns and the reported presence of naval mines. Diplomatic officials indicated that Iran has attached several conditions to any potential European involvement. These reportedly include guarantees for the safety of European naval vessels, the existence of a ceasefire or a significant reduction in regional hostilities, approval from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and assurances that the mission would be limited strictly to humanitarian and commercial navigation rather than broader military operations. While the conditions have not yet been finalized, sources said negotiations are progressing in a constructive direction. No formal agreement has been announced, and discussions among the involved parties remain ongoing. The reported flexibility represents a notable departure from Iran’s previous public position, which has consistently opposed the involvement of foreign military or naval forces in security operations within the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomats, however, say recent closed-door talks suggest Tehran may be willing to reconsider its stance under specific circumstances. Oman is also believed to be playing a key diplomatic role in facilitating communication between Iran and Western countries. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has previously stated that Tehran and Oman had reached an understanding on the geographical parameters of maritime routes, providing a basis for continued negotiations. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital energy corridors, carrying a significant share of globally traded crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Any improvement in security and navigation through the waterway could reduce shipping insurance costs, stabilize global energy markets, and support the uninterrupted movement of commercial vessels. Although negotiations are still underway, the reported discussions highlight growing diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions and ensure the safe resumption of international maritime trade.

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    PM Shehbaz hails PML-N’s stunning AJK victory

    The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) emerged as the leading party in the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections. Unofficial and unofficial results from all 13 constituencies in the Mirpur division showed that PML-N candidates won nine seats, while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured four. PML-N won constituencies LA-1 Mirpur-1, LA-4 Mirpur-4, LA-5 Bhimber-1, LA-6 Bhimber-2, LA-7 Bhimber-3, LA-9 Kotli-2, LA-11 Kotli-4, LA-12 Kotli-5 and LA-13 Kotli-6. The PPP secured two seats in Mirpur and two in Kotli. Its successful constituencies included LA-2 Mirpur-2, LA-3 Mirpur-3, LA-8 Kotli-1 and LA-10 Kotli-3. Voting was held on July 27 across 13 constituencies covering Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber. Polling officially ended at 5pm, after which an additional hour was allowed for voters already waiting to cast their ballots. Following the announcement of the initial results, PML-N candidates and supporters celebrated their party’s strong performance in the first phase. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated PML-N candidates on securing a clear lead in the AJK elections. He said the strong participation of political parties demonstrated the successful continuation of the democratic process. The prime minister urged voters to participate with the same enthusiasm in the next phase of the elections and contribute to strengthening the democratic process. He also praised PML-N’s campaign in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, saying the party’s team, under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, had conducted a highly successful election campaign.

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