تازہ ترین

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    Pakistan seeks to revive Iran-US mediation efforts

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is making fresh diplomatic efforts to revive its role as a mediator between Iran and the United States. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi travelled to Tehran on Tuesday for talks with senior Iranian officials. During his visit, he met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and President Masoud Pezeshkian. The visit is aimed at keeping Pakistan’s mediation channel active. Islamabad is seeking progress on the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which emerged from earlier efforts to ease tensions between Iran and the United States. Naqvi was received in Tehran by Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. He later held discussions with Araghchi on bilateral relations and regional developments. Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts had slowed after Oman became more directly involved in talks concerning arrangements for navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. However, recent contacts between Oman and Iran appear to have created an opportunity for Islamabad to renew its broader mediation initiative. A diplomatic source said Pakistan wants to follow up on the Islamabad MoU and encourage both sides to return to a wider diplomatic process. The situation around the Strait of Hormuz remains particularly sensitive. The waterway is vital for international energy and trade routes. Iran has maintained that the Islamabad MoU remains the key framework for resolving the wider dispute. Tehran has also linked the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to implementation of the commitments contained in the agreement. Iran and Oman have been discussing arrangements for safer passage through the strategic waterway. Their discussions include possible shipping routes and mechanisms for managing navigation. However, Tehran has indicated that any understanding with Oman would initially address technical matters. It would not necessarily represent a complete resolution of the wider dispute. Iran has also called for concrete assurances from Washington before moving towards the next stage of negotiations. Tehran wants guarantees that can be verified rather than verbal commitments. Pakistan has continued to encourage dialogue between the two sides. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also indicated that Washington and Tehran could be moving closer to an understanding. He said recent signals suggested that the two countries were again moving towards a possible peace arrangement or deal. Meanwhile, Pakistan has invited Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi and Iranian Parliament Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf to visit Islamabad. Iranian officials have said the visit would take place at an appropriate time. Naqvi’s trip to Tehran is therefore significant because Islamabad is maintaining direct engagement instead of waiting for the Iranian delegation to visit Pakistan. During his meeting with President Pezeshkian, Naqvi described Pakistan-Iran relations as strong and longstanding. He conveyed Islamabad’s intention to further strengthen ties with Tehran. Pezeshkian also stressed the importance of bilateral relations. He said stronger cooperation between Pakistan and Iran could serve their national interests and contribute to regional stability. The discussions come amid broader diplomatic and security developments in the region. Pakistan recently signed a trilateral defence agreement with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye. Islamabad has maintained that the arrangement is defensive and is not directed against any country. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also discussed the agreement with his Iranian counterpart. He briefed Araghchi on its objectives and stressed its focus on strategic cooperation and regional peace. At the same time, US President Donald Trump has adopted a tougher tone towards Iran’s negotiating team. Trump described Iranian negotiators as difficult and accused them of making commitments privately and later presenting them differently in public. He also warned that Iran’s economic problems and inflation were becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. Trump said Washington could continue applying economic pressure on Tehran. He also suggested that the United States could take stronger measures if necessary. The contrasting positions underline the difficulties facing diplomatic efforts. Pakistan is now attempting to keep communication channels open with Tehran while encouraging a broader political process involving Iran and the United States.

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    Verity’ trailer unveils a dark new thriller starring Dakota Johnson, Anne Hathaway

    ByJustpaste.in

    The first trailer for Verity has arrived, offering audiences an unsettling glimpse at the upcoming psychological thriller starring Dakota Johnson, Anne Hathaway and Josh Hartnett. Based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel of the same name, the Amazon MGM Studios adaptation follows Lowen Ashleigh, played by Johnson, a struggling writer who receives an unexpected opportunity when she is hired to complete a successful author’s unfinished book series. Hathaway portrays Verity Crawford, the celebrated writer whose life changes dramatically after a serious accident leaves her unable to continue working. Lowen travels to the Crawford family’s secluded home to examine Verity’s notes and research for the books, but what initially appears to be a straightforward writing assignment quickly takes a disturbing turn. As Lowen begins sorting through Verity’s personal papers, she discovers a shocking manuscript containing revelations about the Crawford family. The material forces her to question how much she truly knows about Verity, her marriage and the events surrounding the family’s darkest moments. Hartnett stars as Jeremy Crawford, Verity’s husband and a grieving father whose relationship with Lowen becomes increasingly complicated as she spends more time inside the family home. Directed by Michael Showalter, the film leans heavily into the novel’s atmosphere of suspense, secrecy and psychological uncertainty. The trailer teases a tense dynamic between Johnson, Hathaway and Hartnett, while the isolated Crawford residence becomes an ominous backdrop for Lowen’s investigation. The film’s promotional artwork mirrors that unsettling tone. Its striking poster is divided by a bold letter “V,” accompanied by the ominous tagline, “There is no light where we’re going.” The adaptation is scheduled to arrive in theaters on October 2, bringing Hoover’s controversial and twist-filled story to the big screen. The trailer has already generated anticipation among readers familiar with the novel, particularly over how its major revelations will translate to film. With a high-profile cast, a dark premise and a story built around uncertainty, Verity is positioning itself as one of the season’s most closely watched psychological thrillers. https://www.instagram.com/reel/Db6Akt2K-6c/?igsh=MXNodHQ2bTRoNGVlbg==

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    Sindh orders three-year appointment of Qaim Ali Sh…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Sindh government has directed Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) to take immediate steps for the three-year appointment of Professor Dr Nighat Shah, daughter of former Sindh chief minister Qaim Ali Shah, just one day before her scheduled retirement. The directive was issued following a decision of the Sindh Cabinet. Secretary of the Boards and Universities Department Abbas Baloch has also issued a formal notification in this regard. According to the notification, the provincial cabinet discussed the matter during its meeting held on August 5 under agenda item 16. The cabinet cited the broader public interest, continuity of specialised medical services, academic leadership, postgraduate medical education, research, innovation and institutional standards as reasons for considering the appointment. The notification initially states that the vice chancellor should consider appointing Dr Nighat Shah as a professor for three years. However, it subsequently directs the university administration to take immediate steps to process her three-year appointment. The university has also been instructed to implement the cabinet decision without delay and submit a report on the action taken to the Boards and Universities Department on a priority basis. The appointment has raised questions because the government has referred to a notification issued by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) on May 19, 2026. The PMDC had allowed public medical and dental institutions to hire retired faculty members on a purely contractual basis until the age of 65. However, the council had clarified that the policy was enabling in nature and was not mandatory for any institution. Under the PMDC policy, individual institutions were allowed to make decisions according to their requirements, rules, regulations and available resources. The PMDC notification also stated that contractual appointments of retired faculty would not create any right to permanent employment, seniority or absorption into the regular cadre. It further clarified that such appointments should not adversely affect the promotion opportunities, career progression or cadre structure of junior faculty members. The case has therefore raised questions about the need for the provincial cabinet to intervene in the appointment of a particular retired faculty member when the PMDC policy leaves the decision to individual institutions. The PMDC notification is a general policy applicable to public medical and dental institutions. It does not specifically direct any institution to appoint an individual faculty member. The proposed appointment has also triggered concerns over seniority within JSMU. Associate professors Dr Shazia Naseeb, Dr Nasreen Fatima, Dr Saba Khan, Dr Iram Majid and Dr Maimoona Rehman are reportedly among those whose seniority could be affected by Dr Nighat Shah’s appointment. The issue is likely to attract further attention because the proposed appointment comes immediately before Dr Nighat Shah’s retirement. Questions are also being raised about how the decision could affect existing faculty members and their career progression.

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    Arshad Nadeem opts for training in South Africa

    ByJustpaste.in

    Olympic javelin throw gold medallist Arshad Nadeem has decided to undergo training in South Africa ahead of major international competitions. According to sources, Nadeem will not participate in the Lausanne Diamond League scheduled for August 21. His name had initially been included in the entry list for the event. The Pakistani javelin thrower is now planning to train in South Africa. He has previously completed training camps in the country on two occasions. Sources said Nadeem will travel to South Africa on the first available flight once he receives his visa. He is expected to use the training camp to prepare for his upcoming international assignments. Following his training in South Africa, Nadeem will compete at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship. The championship is scheduled to take place in Budapest from September 6 to 14. The event will bring together leading athletes from around the world. Nadeem is also expected to compete at the Asian Games after the World Athletics Ultimate Championship. The decision to skip the Lausanne Diamond League is part of his revised competition and training plan. The focus is now on preparing thoroughly for the major championships ahead. Nadeem has emerged as one of Pakistan’s leading athletics stars. He made history by winning the Olympic javelin throw gold medal, becoming a major figure in Pakistan’s international sporting success. His planned training stint in South Africa is expected to provide him with an opportunity to work on his technique, strength and overall competition preparation before returning to international action.

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    Hina Khan reveals cancer battle tested her marriage deeply

    ByJustpaste.in

    Indian television actress Hina Khan has opened up about the difficult impact her cancer diagnosis had on her relationship with longtime partner Rocky Jaiswal, revealing that her health battle made her reconsider their future together. Hina and Rocky had known each other for nearly 13 years before taking their relationship to the next level. The couple eventually married in an intimate ceremony in June 2025, during a particularly challenging period in Hina’s life as she was undergoing treatment for stage 3 breast cancer. Speaking about their relationship, Hina admitted that her diagnosis brought an enormous amount of uncertainty into their lives. Rather than questioning Rocky’s commitment, she found herself worrying about whether she could still give him the life and happiness he deserved. The actress revealed that she even encouraged Rocky to move on and consider marrying someone else. According to Hina, she made the suggestion several times because she feared that her illness could permanently change different aspects of their lives. “We are not in that space where we fight; we have been in real-life crises,” Hina explained while discussing their relationship. She recalled telling Rocky that he should marry someone else, believing that he should not feel obligated to stay with her because of her health struggles. For Hina, the decision was not an attempt to test Rocky’s love or loyalty. Instead, she said it came from a genuine desire to ensure that he could have the future he wanted, even if that future did not include her. Her cancer journey brought emotional and physical challenges, but Rocky remained a constant source of support. Hina acknowledged that his presence played a major role in helping her cope with one of the most difficult periods of her life. “Anyone who was around me then knew that I was able to get through that time only because of him,” she shared, adding that Rocky made the difficult circumstances appear much easier than they actually were. Despite Hina’s repeated attempts to convince him to move forward without her, Rocky chose to remain by her side. He supported her throughout her cancer treatment and stood with her through the uncertainty surrounding her health. The couple ultimately married while Hina was still battling cancer, turning their relationship into a story of commitment and resilience during an exceptionally challenging chapter. Hina’s revelations offer a deeply personal look at how serious illness can affect not only an individual but also the relationships surrounding them. While she feared that her condition might prevent Rocky from experiencing the life he deserved, his decision to stay demonstrated his willingness to face the difficult circumstances alongside her. Their journey highlights the strength of a relationship when both partners choose to stand together during moments of uncertainty. For Hina, Rocky’s unwavering support became an important part of her ability to navigate her cancer battle, while their marriage marked another significant chapter in their 13-year journey together.

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    PTI infighting deepens as Raja, Yousafzai trade al…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Internal differences within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have intensified after a public dispute between central secretary-general Salman Akram Raja and party leader Mashal Yousafzai. The disagreement revolves around allegations linked to party tickets and internal decision-making. Both leaders have exchanged strong statements, further highlighting tensions within the party. Mashal Yousafzai had accused Salman Akram Raja of involvement in what she described as the sale of party tickets. Raja rejected the allegation and responded sharply. Raja questioned the credibility of the accusation. He said those who could not afford even a small amount to pursue a legal case had resorted to making serious allegations against him. He also questioned Yousafzai’s knowledge of the circumstances surrounding her Senate position. Raja said she did not know who had played a role in getting her elected to the Senate. Raja further stated that decisions regarding Yousafzai had been made on the instructions of PTI founder Imran Khan. He said he did not possess the authority to remove Yousafzai from the Senate. He added that not taking action against her at the party level was an act of leniency on his part. Yousafzai rejected Raja’s claims and responded with allegations of her own. She claimed that Raja had apologised to Imran Khan on one occasion but later resumed making public statements against her and others. Yousafzai also challenged Raja to take action against her if he believed he had the authority to remove her from the party. The dispute has attracted attention because both figures hold prominent positions within PTI circles. Their public exchange has brought internal disagreements into the open at a time when the party is already facing political and organisational challenges. PTI worker Shandana Gulzar also joined the debate. Gulzar accused Raja of making an incorrect statement about financial matters. She questioned the handling of funds allegedly received from the United States. She asked where the millions of rupees allegedly coming from the US had gone. Gulzar suggested that disclosure of the facts could create serious problems for those involved. The allegations made by the PTI figures have not been independently established. The dispute remains centred on competing claims made by the individuals involved. The latest confrontation has nevertheless raised questions about internal discipline and decision-making within the party.

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    Pakistan’s Young Taekwondo stars shine in Singapore

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan’s young taekwondo athletes delivered a memorable performance in Singapore, returning from the Grand Slam Youth Taekwondo League with an impressive haul of five medals, including three golds. The international youth competition was held in Tampines, Singapore, from July 24 to 26, bringing together talented athletes from more than 13 countries. The event provided young competitors with a valuable platform to test their skills against international opposition. The Singapore edition was also officially listed as the second edition of the Grand Slam Youth League. Pakistan’s Qadeer Khan, Wajahat Ali Khan and Arham Manaf emerged as the standout performers, securing gold medals in their respective categories after impressive displays. Their victories highlighted the growing confidence and ability of Pakistan’s young taekwondo athletes on the international stage. Competing against athletes from a wide range of countries, the Pakistani trio demonstrated determination, speed and technical skill to finish at the top. The country’s medal tally was further strengthened by Ayan Miraj and Syed Ahmed Ayaz, who claimed bronze medals after strong performances. The five-medal haul represents an encouraging development for Pakistan’s youth taekwondo programme. Beyond the medals themselves, the results offer a glimpse of the potential emerging among the country’s younger athletes. The Grand Slam Youth League is designed to give young competitors high-level international experience while allowing them to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment. For Pakistan, the Singapore success could prove an important confidence boost as these young athletes continue their development. Their performances have not only raised the national flag on the international stage but also underlined the depth of talent available in Pakistan’s next generation of taekwondo competitors.

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    Abu Dhabi T10 League faces big changes after scandals

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Abu Dhabi T10 League is preparing for a major transformation as it heads towards its 10th season, with new ownership and stronger institutional oversight expected to reshape the tournament following a series of controversies. The league, launched in 2017 as the world’s first major T10 cricket competition, has attracted international players and significant attention for its fast-paced format. However, allegations and investigations linked to corruption, payment disputes involving players and frequent changes in franchise ownership have affected its reputation in recent years. In response to these challenges, the Abu Dhabi government has taken a more direct role in the competition. Through the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub, the government has acquired a majority stake in the league, a move aimed at bringing greater stability and long-term planning to the tournament. The authorities are now seeking new franchise owners through a competitive bidding process being conducted under the supervision of Deloitte. Final offers are expected to be submitted later this week, potentially marking a new chapter for the league. Abu Dhabi Sports Council chief executive Matt Boucher said the focus is on creating institutional stability and establishing longer-term agreements with franchise owners. The move is expected to provide teams with greater certainty while helping the competition strengthen its commercial and sporting foundations. Despite the planned restructuring, officials have indicated that the league will retain its current eight-team format. There are no immediate plans to increase the number of franchises, while expansion over the next three years is also not considered a priority. With fresh ownership, tighter management and a focus on stability, the Abu Dhabi T10 League now hopes to rebuild its credibility and establish itself as a sustainable annual cricket competition in the region.

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    Atif Aslam reflects on decade-long India music ban

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    Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has spoken about his decade-long absence from the Indian music industry, reflecting on the ban imposed on Pakistani artistes following the 2016 Uri attack. In an interview with Kris Fade on his YouTube channel, the 43-year-old singer discussed how the restrictions affected his professional relationship with India and his millions of fans there. Atif said it had been almost 10 years since he was banned from working in India, explaining that the decision was made by the Indian government. He also pointed out that Indian artistes have faced similar restrictions in Pakistan, describing the situation as something beyond the control of individual musicians. Atif revealed that he has not recorded a song for the Indian market during the past decade. Despite the ban, however, he said his music continues to reach Indian listeners through different means. According to the singer, some fans use VPNs to access his music, while others share his songs through CDs. Although he made it clear that he does not support piracy, Atif said music ultimately finds its way to audiences who want to listen to it. Addressing his Indian fans directly, the singer delivered an emotional message and assured them that he has not forgotten them. He said he does not necessarily miss working in India but genuinely misses the people who supported his music throughout the years. Atif also reflected on how the ban unexpectedly influenced his artistic journey. He explained that his experience with playback singing had taught him a great deal, but the absence of opportunities in India pushed him to focus more deeply on creating his own music. Rather than viewing the ban entirely negatively, Atif said the situation gave him an opportunity to explore himself creatively. He expressed gratitude to his supporters as well as those responsible for the restrictions, suggesting that the circumstances ultimately encouraged him to develop a different side of his musical identity. The restrictions on Pakistani artistes in India began in the aftermath of the September 2016 Uri attack. The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association subsequently called on its members to stop working with Pakistani artistes. Restrictions became even stronger following the 2019 Pulwama attack, when the All India Cine Workers Association announced a complete ban on Pakistani actors working in Indian cinema. Despite being unable to work in India for years, Atif has remained one of the most popular Pakistani singers among Indian audiences. His connection with Indian music lovers dates back to his breakthrough with “Aadat,” which featured in the 2005 Bollywood film Kalyug. He later became known for several successful Bollywood songs, including “Tera Hone Laga Hoon,” “Tere Sang Yaara” and other popular tracks that strengthened his position as one of the region’s most recognised playback singers. Atif’s latest comments highlight the lasting connection between his music and Indian listeners, even after years of political and industry-level restrictions.

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    California Senate unanimously honors Pakistani com…

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    The Pakistani-American community has received a major recognition in California, with the state Senate unanimously approving a resolution honoring its contributions to the state’s economy, culture and social life. The resolution also highlights the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and the United States, placing particular emphasis on the role Pakistani-Americans have played in strengthening ties between the two countries. Introduced by State Senator Melissa Hurtado, the resolution recognises the achievements of Pakistani-Americans across different fields and acknowledges their contribution to California’s continued development. A similar resolution reported by California authorities and Pakistani diplomatic sources was unanimously approved by the Senate, underscoring the community’s growing presence and influence in the state. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, welcomed the unanimous approval and expressed gratitude to Senator Hurtado for her leadership and efforts in recognising the Pakistani-American community. The ambassador also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people contacts and building on positive developments in Pakistan-US relations. The resolution also recognises the role of Pakistani-American entrepreneurs, investors and business leaders in promoting economic cooperation. Their involvement in business and investment, particularly in technology and other emerging sectors, has helped create opportunities for stronger commercial links between Pakistan and the United States. Sheikh’s engagement with California comes as Pakistani officials seek to expand economic, political and community-level ties with the state. During his visit, he met with state lawmakers and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation. The recognition carries significance beyond the Pakistani-American community itself. California is one of the world’s largest economic centres and home to a diverse population, making acknowledgement by its legislature an important symbol of the community’s growing role. The resolution also praised Ambassador Sheikh’s efforts to promote Pakistan-US relations. For Pakistani-Americans, the Senate’s recognition represents more than a ceremonial gesture. It highlights decades of community participation, professional success and cultural engagement while offering a fresh opportunity to deepen connections between California and Pakistan. The development is expected to further encourage people-to-people, economic and cultural exchanges between the two sides.