تازہ ترین

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    Pakistan dismisses Indian defence minister’s Azad Kashmir threats as attempt to hide domestic turmoil

    ByJustpaste.in

    Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has forcefully rejected comments by his Indian counterpart, Rajnath Singh, who declared that New Delhi would only hold talks on Azad Kashmir, claimed the Pakistani-administered region as an “integral part of India”, and warned that any attempt to undermine Indian sovereignty would invite a “decisive response” from its armed forces. Singh had also accused Islamabad of continuing to sponsor “terrorism” against India. Asif hit back directly, stating that Singh’s aggressive rhetoric was a clear attempt to “deflect the attention from internal turmoil and increasing unrest” following mass protests against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. He warned New Delhi against distortion and military posturing, emphasising that while Pakistan remains committed to peace, its resolve to defend its sovereignty is absolute and must never be tested. The Pakistani Foreign Office echoed these concerns, calling on the United Nations to hold India accountable to Security Council resolutions guaranteeing the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.

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    Northwestern province warns of glacial floods as Pakistan monsoon death toll rises to 107

    ByJustpaste.in

    Authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have issued urgent warnings regarding potential glacial lake outburst floods, urging residents and tourists to stay away from rivers, streams, and narrow mountain valleys. The disaster alert follows persistent heavy monsoon rains that have killed at least 107 people and injured 344 others across the country since late June, with the heaviest casualties reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab due to flash floods, structural collapses, and electrocutions. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority has highlighted specific high-risk northern districts, including Upper and Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Swat, Upper Kohistan, and Mansehra, where warm temperatures combined with intermittent rainfall are rapidly accelerating glacial melt. Local administrations have been instructed to monitor vulnerable zones closely, with officials advising the public to watch for sudden changes in river water colour or unusual mountain sounds that could signal an imminent surge.

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    Pakistan warns India against Kashmir ‘adventuris…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan has strongly condemned recent remarks by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh about Jammu and Kashmir. Islamabad warned New Delhi against any move that could increase tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The Foreign Office said Singh’s comments were provocative and irresponsible. It said the remarks misrepresented the internationally recognised position on the Kashmir dispute. Pakistan maintained that the Jammu and Kashmir issue remains on the agenda of the United Nations Security Council. Islamabad said relevant UN resolutions remain an important part of the international framework surrounding the dispute. The Foreign Office said India could not change the disputed status of Kashmir through political statements. It also rejected what it described as attempts to present the issue as settled through unilateral claims. Pakistan warned India not to underestimate the resolve of its government and people. The Foreign Office said Islamabad was determined to protect the country’s interests and respond to any attempt at military adventurism. The statement also called on the international community to take notice of India’s policies. Pakistan specifically urged the United Nations to pay attention to what it described as India’s failure to comply with relevant Security Council resolutions. Islamabad said the Indian minister’s comments appeared to divert attention from other issues. The Foreign Office referred to Pakistan’s allegations concerning the situation in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. The statement also accused India of contributing to regional instability. Pakistan said threatening rhetoric could have wider consequences for peace and security in South Asia. The latest response came a day after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif rejected Singh’s remarks. Asif said political statements from New Delhi could not alter the internationally recognised nature of the Kashmir dispute. Asif also criticised what he called intimidation and threatening rhetoric. He said Pakistan would not accept attempts to change established positions through unilateral declarations. Relations between Pakistan and India have remained tense for decades, with Kashmir continuing to be a major source of disagreement. Both countries claim the disputed region, while controlling separate parts of it. Pakistan has consistently called for the Kashmir issue to be resolved through the relevant international framework. Islamabad has also stressed the right of the Kashmiri people to determine their political future. The latest exchange of statements has further highlighted the deep differences between the two countries. Pakistan has urged India to avoid actions and statements that could worsen the regional security situation. Islamabad’s warning comes as both sides remain highly sensitive to developments involving Kashmir. Pakistani officials have repeatedly said that peace in South Asia requires dialogue and respect for international commitments.

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    AJK polls begin with 19,000 security personnel

    ByJustpaste.in

    The first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections is being held today across the Mirpur division, with authorities completing extensive arrangements for polling and security. The first phase covers Mirpur, Bhimber and Kotli districts. Officials said all polling material has been delivered to the designated polling stations ahead of voting. AJK Chief Secretary Khushal Khan and Election Commission Secretary Raja Muhammad Shakeel said the authorities were committed to ensuring free, fair and transparent elections. They urged voters to exercise their democratic right peacefully. They also warned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt polling or create a law and order situation. Officials advised voters and political workers to avoid spreading or believing unverified information circulating on social media. They said all stakeholders must follow the election code of conduct. The AJK elections are being conducted in three phases. Polling in the Mirpur division is taking place today. The second phase will be held in Muzaffarabad on August 2, followed by the third phase in Poonch on August 10. Security has been significantly increased across the three districts. Mirpur police authorities said a detailed security plan has been prepared to protect voters, election staff and polling stations. Mirpur SSP Khurram Iqbal said security forces have adopted a three-layer strategy. Polling stations have been divided into highly sensitive, sensitive and normal categories. Security personnel and resources have been assigned according to the level of risk. The district has also been divided into 56 security sectors. Each sector is being supervised by a deputy superintendent of police. Monitoring and rapid-response teams will remain active throughout the voting process. Authorities have also prepared additional contingency arrangements to deal with emergencies. A second response force will be available if required, while a third security layer will operate under zonal commanders. More than 1.4 million registered voters are expected to participate in the first phase across 13 constituencies. Authorities have established 2,454 polling stations containing 3,701 polling booths. Around 3,500 election officials have been assigned duties for the polling process. Voting will take place from 8am to 5pm. The 13 constituencies include four in Mirpur district, three in Bhimber and six in Kotli. Of the total polling stations, 1,965 have been classified as sensitive or highly sensitive. More than 19,000 security personnel have been deployed across the division. The force includes around 17,000 police officers, while approximately 2,100 army personnel will remain available as a backup force. A total of 288 candidates are contesting the 13 seats. The main political competition is expected to involve the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Pakistan Peoples Party and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, along with several influential independent candidates. Authorities have appealed to voters, candidates and political workers to cooperate with security personnel and maintain peace throughout polling.

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    23 militants killed in Intelligence-Based Operations across South Waziristan, Lakki Marwat, Taunsa Sharif and Balochistan

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD/SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Security forces successfully foiled a major terrorist attack on a check post in South Waziristan after destroying an explosives laden vehicle before it could breach the security perimeter. Four militants, including a suicide bomber, were killed during the operation, while security forces suffered no casualties. According to security sources, the attackers attempted to ram a vehicle packed with explosives into the check post. Alert troops responded swiftly, targeting the vehicle outside the outer defensive barrier. The vehicle was completely destroyed, killing the suicide bomber on the spot and preventing any damage to the installation. The remaining three militants fled into a nearby building, where security forces launched a clearance operation and killed all of them. Search and sanitization operations are continuing in the area. Meanwhile, security forces are conducting ongoing operations in the Dargai Kot, Laman and adjoining areas of Wana in South Waziristan, targeting suspected militant hideouts to restrict terrorist movement and eliminate safe havens. In a separate intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Khui area of Lakki Marwat district, four militants belonging to the Fitna al-Khawarij-linked Astarana group were killed. The deceased were identified as Abu Dujana, Arshad, and Abu Zar alias Khayal Badin, son of Muhammad Aslam, while efforts are underway to confirm the identity of the fourth militant. In another successful operation in the border region of Taunsa Sharif between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, security forces killed three militants and injured several others. One of the slain militants was identified as Amir Baloch, while identification of the remaining militants is in progress. Separately, under Operation Al-Azm, security forces continued intelligence based operations against terrorist networks in Balochistan. According to security sources, militant hideouts and ambush positions were destroyed in Kili Kand Umrani, Khad Kocha, Mastung, and surrounding areas. A large cache of weapons and explosives was also recovered. Security officials said that 16 militants have so far been killed during the ongoing operations in Balochistan. Authorities reiterated their commitment to continuing counterterrorism operations across the country until terrorism is completely eradicated and lasting peace is restored.

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    Safeer Afridi appointed Brand Ambassador of Celebrities Cricket League

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Celebrities Cricket League (CCL) is proud to announce the appointment of renowned content creator and digital entrepreneur Safeer Afridi as the official Brand Ambassador of the league in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The appointment marks a significant milestone as the league continues its preparations for its inaugural edition, reinforcing its commitment to promoting grassroots cricket, youth engagement, and community participation through the power of sport and digital influence. At 26 years of age, Safeer Afridi has established himself as one of Pakistan’s emerging digital creators, with more than eight years of experience in the online industry. Based in Islamabad, he has built a strong reputation by creating educational, informative, and engaging content covering technology, digital opportunities, entrepreneurship, and personal development. With a social media community of more than 100,000 followers across various platforms, Safeer has consistently focused on producing meaningful content that educates and inspires audiences. His expertise in content creation, audience engagement, and digital communication makes him a valuable addition to the Celebrities Cricket League as it seeks to connect with young people across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The league is being spearheaded by entrepreneur and digital creator Muhammad Anas, whose vision is to establish a platform that combines the excitement of cricket with youth empowerment and community development. Through this initiative, CCL aims to create opportunities for aspiring cricketers while bringing together celebrities, influencers, digital creators, and local talent on one stage. Subject to official approvals, the inaugural edition of the Celebrities Cricket League is expected to feature six competitive teams and is proposed to take place at Imran Khan Cricket Stadium around October or November. Beyond providing entertainment, the tournament has been designed to promote grassroots cricket, identify emerging talent, encourage healthy competition, and inspire young people to participate in sports. As Brand Ambassador, Safeer Afridi will play an important role in supporting the league’s awareness campaigns, engaging with audiences through digital platforms, and promoting the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and youth development. His strong connection with younger audiences and his experience in building online communities are expected to contribute significantly to the league’s outreach efforts. Commenting on the appointment, Muhammad Anas, Founder of the Celebrities Cricket League, said: “Safeer Afridi represents the energy, creativity, and positive influence that reflect the vision of the Celebrities Cricket League. His ability to inspire young audiences through meaningful digital content makes him an ideal Brand Ambassador for this initiative. We are delighted to welcome him to the CCL family and look forward to working together to promote grassroots cricket and create new opportunities for aspiring players across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.” Expressing his enthusiasm, Safeer Afridi said: “It is an honour to join the Celebrities Cricket League as its Brand Ambassador. Cricket has always brought communities together, and I am excited to support an initiative that focuses on young talent, positive engagement, and the future of grassroots cricket. I look forward to contributing to the league’s vision and encouraging more young people to participate in the sport.” The Celebrities Cricket League believes that meaningful partnerships between sports, entrepreneurship, and digital creators can help inspire the next generation while creating a platform where emerging cricketers receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve. As preparations continue, CCL remains committed to delivering an event that celebrates cricket, encourages community participation, and strengthens grassroots sports development across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

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    Pakistan U21 hockey team leaves for Oman series

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan’s Under-21 hockey team has departed for Muscat to take part in a five-match Test series against Oman’s senior national side, giving the country’s emerging players a valuable opportunity to gain international experience against more seasoned opposition. The young Pakistan squad left for Oman on Monday, accompanied by head coach and Olympian Ayaz Mahmood, coach and Olympian Sameer Hussain, and coach Azfar Yaqoob. The series is being viewed as an important step in the development of Pakistan’s junior hockey players, particularly as they prepare to transition from age-group competition to the demands of senior international hockey. The first Test will be played on July 29, followed by the second on July 31. The third match is scheduled for August 1, while the fourth Test will take place on August 2. The five-match series will conclude with the final Test on August 4. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) believes the exposure will help the young players understand the pace, physical demands and pressure associated with international hockey. PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani extended his best wishes to the team before its departure and said the decision to send the players to Oman was aimed at boosting their confidence and providing them with meaningful international exposure. “Our junior players will gain confidence when they compete against foreign teams at the international level,” Wani said, stressing the importance of giving promising players opportunities to perform outside the domestic circuit. The series against Oman’s senior team could prove particularly useful for Pakistan’s youngsters because they will be competing against players with greater experience and exposure to high-level hockey. Such matches can help young athletes identify weaknesses, improve decision-making and develop the composure required in competitive international fixtures. For Pakistan, the tour is also an opportunity to assess the depth of its emerging talent. With the national side looking to strengthen its future pool of players, regular international exposure at the Under-21 level could play a key role in preparing the next generation for senior hockey. The five-Test format will provide the players with multiple opportunities to adapt. Rather than relying on a single match, the youngsters will have to recover quickly, learn from mistakes and make tactical adjustments throughout the series. The tour also gives the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate players under challenging conditions and identify individuals capable of progressing to the senior national setup. As Pakistan’s junior players prepare to take on Oman’s senior side, the series promises to be more than a collection of practice matches. It represents a test of character, confidence and readiness—and potentially another important chapter in the development of Pakistan hockey’s next generation.

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    Zardari, Shehbaz among officials depositing gifts …

    ByJustpaste.in

    President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other senior officials have deposited numerous gifts received from foreign dignitaries in the Toshakhana. The government has released details of gifts received by senior officeholders during the recent period. The Cabinet Division has also made records of gifts received by public officials since 2002 available on its official website. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said details of deposited gifts are published periodically. He said the records cover gifts received by the president, prime minister, deputy prime minister, federal ministers and other government officials. However, the names of the foreign dignitaries who presented the gifts have not been made public. The Cabinet Division has stated that the valuation of some of the newly listed gifts is still being completed. It has also clarified that the published information is based on records and declarations submitted by individuals and departments. The records show that President Zardari received several valuable and ceremonial items. These included a tea set, sword, golden desert model, woollen overcoat and a Vacheron Constantin Geneve wristwatch. Other gifts listed for the president included a decorative piece, ceremonial sabre set, chessboard, serving bowl and an oil painting. First Lady Assefa Bhutto-Zardari and Bakhtawar Bhutto-Zardari also received jewellery. The records show that both received necklaces. Jewellery sets were also listed among their gifts. Assefa Bhutto-Zardari additionally received a Kumis set. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also received a wide range of gifts. The items included shields, souvenirs, portraits, ties, frames and swords. Some jewellery items were also listed among the gifts received by the prime minister. The records further show several watches, including Rolex and Patek Philippe models. Other items included a coin, traditional dress, clock, sugar bowl and car model. Cups, pens and cufflinks were also among the listed gifts. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar received several items as well. His gifts included a decorative piece and a traditional Chinese stamp. The records also mention a Burmese string puppet, a Myanmar cultural frame, a Rolex watch, vase, medal and Chinese leather belt. Dar also received an Egyptian statue, pen and cufflink set. Several other federal officials were also listed in the records. Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema received a book about Uzbekistan and a T-shirt. Economic Affairs Secretary M. Humair Karim received a ballpoint pen. Information Minister Tarar was listed as having received a Rolex watch. Several members of the president’s staff also received watches. These included the military secretary, chief security officer, Air ADC, principal staff officer and presidential spokesperson. National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq received a large ceramic jar. Senator Saleem Mandviwalla received a Bvlgari watch. Former NAB chairman retired Lt Gen Nazir Ahmed received a wristwatch and an INTERPOL commemorative book. Deputy Chief of State Protocol Hafeezullah received a Tag Heuer watch. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi received a Rolex watch and a hand-chased tea set. Prime Minister’s spokesperson for foreign media Mosharraf Ali Zaidi received a Tag Heuer watch. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhter received a hand-chased tea set with 24-karat gold plating. The government has said the details of Toshakhana gifts will continue to be uploaded periodically. The Cabinet Division has also placed a disclaimer on the records. It said the information is based on available records and declarations made by officials and departments under the rules applicable at the time.

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    Australian court rejects Hanson’s racial appeal

    ByJustpaste.in

    An Australian court has rejected far-right politician Pauline Hanson’s appeal against a racial vilification ruling. The case relates to comments Hanson made about Pakistan-born Australian Senator Mehreen Faruqi in 2022. Faruqi had criticised the British Empire after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. She said she could not mourn the former monarch because of the empire’s history of colonisation. Hanson responded with a social media post directed at Faruqi. She criticised Faruqi for living in Australia and told her to return to Pakistan. Faruqi later filed a complaint over the remarks. The Federal Court ruled in 2024 that Hanson’s comments amounted to racial vilification. The court said the remarks were reasonably likely to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate Faruqi. The court also said the comments could affect Muslim Australians and other people from migrant backgrounds. Hanson challenged the ruling. She argued that her comments did not violate Australia’s racial discrimination laws. She also argued that the relevant legislation was constitutionally invalid. The court rejected her appeal on Monday. The earlier finding against Hanson therefore remains in place. Hanson defended her position after the decision. She said she was angry about Faruqi’s comments concerning the late queen. She maintained that she had wanted to criticise what she considered disrespectful remarks. The case has renewed debate over political speech and racial discrimination in Australia. It also highlights the legal restrictions surrounding comments about race, religion and migrant backgrounds. Faruqi is a senator representing the Greens. She has been active on issues including human rights, immigration and racial equality. Hanson leads One Nation. The party has built its political support around strict immigration policies and stronger measures against illegal migration. Hanson has also called for major reductions in government spending. She has promoted proposals aimed at cutting public expenditure. The politician has further urged Australia to reconsider its membership of some international organisations. The court decision comes as One Nation continues to attract significant political support. Hanson remains one of Australia’s most recognisable figures on the political right. The ruling could add to the wider national discussion over the balance between freedom of expression and protection against racial discrimination. It also reinforces the legal risks politicians can face when public statements target people based on their race, religion or migrant background.

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    Vin Diesel gives update on ‘Fast Forever’, sparks fan excitement

    ByJustpaste.in

    Vin Diesel has united Fast & Furious fans with a new post on social media. The actor shared a behind-the-scenes photo from the set of the franchise’s final chapter, captioning it simply with a note about creative happiness. The image quickly became the center of attention. It showed Diesel deep in conversation with Jason Momoa, who plays antagonist Dante Reyes in the tenth installment of the series. The snapshot confirmed something fans had been waiting to hear, Momoa, has officially joined the Fast Forever cast after finishing his other commitments. Momoa was the last major star to sign on for the upcoming film. His scheduling conflicts, including work on DC’s Supergirl and the third Dune movie, had kept him tied up elsewhere. The newly shared photo captured the on-set moment when his character finally crossed paths with Dominic Toretto, played by Diesel. The reaction from fans was immediate and enthusiastic. Many took to the comments section to celebrate the reunion they had been anticipating for months. One admirer described the cast as feeling like family, calling the image a great one. Another simply praised how joyful the picture looked. A third fan could not hide their eagerness to watch Toretto finally face off against Momoa’s villain character on screen. The excitement reflects just how much anticipation has built around this final installment of the long-running franchise. After multiple films spanning over two decades, seeing the full cast finally assembled together feels like a milestone moment for longtime viewers. Fast Forever will bring back several familiar faces alongside Diesel and Momoa, including Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, and Ludacris. Together, they will close out the story that began with street racing and evolved into a global action saga spanning heists, espionage, and family drama. The film is scheduled to open in theaters worldwide on March 17, 2028, giving fans plenty of time to speculate about how the story will wrap up. Given the buzz already surrounding this single photo, anticipation for the movie’s marketing rollout is likely to grow substantially as the release date approaches. For now, though, fans are simply savoring confirmation that the full ensemble is finally together on set.