تازہ ترین

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    Iran rejects US control over war’s end as Hormuz tensions persist

    TEHRAN: Iran has rejected any suggestion that Washington will decide how the conflict ends, while diplomatic efforts over the Strait of Hormuz continue amid a fragile pause in US-Iran military strikes. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said some Gulf countries had been involved in the conflict alongside the United States. He did not identify the countries or provide further details. Baghaei said Tehran would not allow the United States to determine the outcome of the war. He also said Iran had not requested a return to direct negotiations with Washington. He said discussions with Oman over the management of the Strait of Hormuz had been positive. However, he stressed that the waterway remained closed and there had been no change in the situation. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the main flashpoints in the conflict. It is a crucial route for global energy shipments, making any disruption a major concern for oil markets and international trade. Iranian state media also reported that six vessels were intercepted after attempting to use what Tehran described as an unsafe and unauthorised route through the southern part of the strait. According to the report, the vessels had switched off their navigation systems. One vessel suffered an accident, while the others returned towards the Gulf following intervention by Iranian forces. The situation has also affected shipping activity in other regional waterways. Traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has slowed following attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement on Saudi oil facilities along the Red Sea coast. Shipping data showed that only a limited number of commodity vessels crossed the waterway over the weekend. The number of vessels using the Strait of Hormuz also remained unusually low despite the temporary pause in US and Iranian attacks. The slowdown has raised concerns about the wider impact of the conflict on global energy supplies. Oil prices, however, moved lower after Washington and Tehran halted their strikes for the time being. Brent crude fell sharply during Monday trading, while US West Texas Intermediate also declined. The fall reflected hopes that diplomacy could eventually restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Oman has been playing a role in diplomatic efforts between the two sides. An Omani delegation travelled to Tehran to discuss possible arrangements for future management of the strategic waterway. Iran and Oman reportedly differ over how the mechanism should operate. Tehran wants a service fee and greater control over the proposed system, while Oman has suggested a regional arrangement without tolls. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu travelled to Washington for talks with US President Donald Trump. The meeting is expected to cover regional developments and issues of concern to both countries. Netanyahu’s visit comes as the wider conflict continues to affect security across the Middle East. Trump has also rejected reports that the US military is facing shortages of ammunition. He said the United States has more munitions than any other country and has sufficient supplies for its military needs. However, reports have suggested that US military officials have raised concerns about the strain on weapons stocks following nearly two weeks of sustained attacks on Iran. US officials have reportedly warned that continued large-scale operations could put additional pressure on missile interceptors and other defensive systems deployed across the Middle East. The United States has maintained that its forces remain capable of carrying out their missions. The current pause followed 13 nights of US airstrikes against Iran. Tehran had responded to the attacks with strikes on areas in neighbouring Gulf states that host US military facilities. Iran has now also paused its retaliatory operations. A senior Iranian official said Tehran’s position remains linked to Washington’s actions: if US attacks stop, Iran will also halt its operations. US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said Trump paused the campaign to give diplomacy more time. Iran, however, remains deeply sceptical about the development. An Iranian source said Tehran viewed the pause as potentially tactical rather than a genuine shift in Washington’s position. The uncertainty has left many people in Iran worried about whether the fighting could resume.

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    BLA kidnaps courier company’s mini-truck with tw…

    Security sources said that armed members of the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) abducted a courier company’s mini-truck along with two people from the Khad Koocha area on July 24. According to the sources, the kidnappers demanded Rs25 million in ransom from the courier company on July 26 and threatened to kill the hostages if the money was not paid. Security sources said the proscribed BLA is involved not only in terrorism but also in criminal activities, including bank robberies, vehicle theft, extortion and kidnapping for ransom. They said such incidents indicate the involvement of criminal networks in activities that can also serve as a source of financing for terrorism. The sources said ordinary Baloch citizens, local traders and peace in Balochistan suffer the most from such activities. They added that such actions are also aimed at creating fear and insecurity among residents and disrupting the peaceful environment in the region.

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    Citizen named Quaid-e-Azam told to appear before N…

    PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court has directed a citizen named Quaid-e-Azam to appear before the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) Board after his Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) was blocked. The matter came before the court after the citizen challenged the blocking of his CNIC through a petition. A division bench comprising Justice Waqar Ahmed and Justice Inamullah Khan heard the case. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s lawyer told the court that his client was a businessman. He said the citizen’s CNIC had been blocked and requested the court to intervene in the matter. The lawyer sought relief against the action taken against his client. He maintained that the blocking of the identity card had affected the citizen and required judicial consideration. A NADRA representative also appeared before the court. The Director Legal of NADRA informed the bench that the CNIC had not been blocked without reason. He said the authority had found the petitioner’s identity record suspicious. According to NADRA, the issue required further verification of the citizen’s record and identity documents. After hearing both sides, the court did not immediately order the restoration of the CNIC. Instead, the bench directed the petitioner to appear before the NADRA Board. The court’s direction means that the petitioner will have an opportunity to present his position before the relevant authority. NADRA will then examine the matter in accordance with its verification process. The case highlights the importance of accurate identity records and the procedures followed when questions arise over a citizen’s documentation. The court’s order also provides a formal channel for the petitioner to address the concerns raised by NADRA

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    Flood surge damages railway bridge near Lahore

    A railway bridge near Mission Caller on the Sheikhupura-Lahore section was damaged after a strong flood surge hit the area, disrupting train services between Lahore and Faisalabad. Railway authorities said train operations on the Lahore-Faisalabad section have been temporarily suspended due to damage to the bridge. Trains travelling from Lahore towards Karachi via Sheikhupura and Faisalabad are being diverted through Sahiwal as an alternative route. Officials said the Badr Express and Ghouri Express have been cancelled due to the disruption. The Shalimar Express and Karakoram Express will operate via Raiwind and Sahiwal, while the Mianwali Express, which normally runs between Lahore and Mianwali, will be diverted through Lala Musa. Several other trains operating on the affected route have also been cancelled. Some services have been shifted to alternative routes to minimise disruption to passengers. According to railway officials, the flood surge that hit the area last night caused 30 of the bridge’s 110 pillars to collapse. Repair work has begun on the damaged structure. Railway authorities are working to restore the track and resume normal train operations as soon as possible. The flooding has also affected nearby communities. Residents said several settlements, including Hadiala Warkan village, were inundated after the flood surge entered the area during the night. The floodwaters have also caused significant damage to standing crops. Local residents expressed concern over losses to agricultural land and crops following the sudden rise in water levels.

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    AJK polls underway as 1.4m voters cast ballots

    MUZAFFARABAD: Polling is underway in the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections. Voting started at 8am and will continue until 5pm. Elections are being held today in 13 constituencies across three districts of Mirpur division — Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber. Polling has started at several stations. However, voting has yet to begin at some locations because voters have not arrived. In Kotli, polling is underway at Polling Station No. 38 in Aghar Colony. Voting has not started at polling stations 36 and 37 due to the absence of voters. Candidates cast votes Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Chaudhry Tariq Farooq, contesting from LA-7 in Bhimber, cast his vote at Polling Station No. 161. Speaking after voting, Farooq said voter turnout was expected to be higher in rural areas than in cities. He also urged women to leave their homes after completing household responsibilities and exercise their right to vote. Farooq expressed satisfaction with the law and order situation and the arrangements made for the elections in Bhimber. PPP confident of victory Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Secretary General Muhammad Humayun Khan said the party was confident of securing a strong victory in the Azad Kashmir elections. He said the party’s electoral symbol, the arrow, represented the Kashmiri people’s rights to governance, ownership and employment. Humayun Khan said the PPP would continue to raise the voice of the people of Kashmir at every forum. He also called for the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission, describing it as an important need. PPP Parliamentarians Secretary General Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari also expressed confidence that voters in Azad Kashmir would support the PPP. He said the party had played an important role in establishing a parliamentary democratic system in Azad Kashmir. More than 1.4 million voters registered A total of 296 candidates are contesting the elections, including candidates from the PPP, PML-N, Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party and independent candidates. There are 1,401,439 registered voters across the 13 constituencies. The number includes 725,118 male voters and 675,628 female voters. A total of 2,454 polling stations have been established across Mirpur division. Mirpur district has 597 polling stations across four constituencies. Kotli has 1,107 stations across six constituencies, while 608 polling stations have been established in three constituencies of Bhimber. Officials urge voters to participate Mirpur Commissioner Raja Tahir Mumtaz and DIG Kamran Ali visited wards 16 and 17 of LA-3 to review the polling arrangements. Speaking to the media, Commissioner Mumtaz said polling was proceeding peacefully across all three districts from 8am. He urged voters to come out and cast their ballots without fear. He assured the public that the administration had arranged a peaceful environment for voters. Tight security arrangements Authorities have put in place extensive security measures for the elections. Azad Kashmir Chief Election Commissioner Justice (retd) Mustafa Mughal warned that legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the voting process. AJK Chief Secretary Khushal Khan said the people of Azad Kashmir had rejected groups seeking to create disorder and had shown confidence in the democratic process. He said all state institutions were prepared to ensure peaceful elections.

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    Sam Asghari reveals future family plans with girlf…

    Sam Asghari is embracing a fresh chapter in life, and it appears the actor and fitness trainer is already thinking about what the future could hold with his girlfriend, Brooke Irwin. Nearly two years after finalizing his divorce from pop icon Britney Spears, Asghari says he is happier than ever and is carefully balancing his thriving career with his personal life.  The 32-year-old has been dating real estate agent Brooke Irwin since late 2024, with the couple making their relationship public shortly afterward. Since then, they have shared glimpses of their romance on social media and have frequently been spotted enjoying everyday outings together. Friends close to the pair describe their relationship as supportive, low-key, and built on mutual respect.  Speaking about his relationship in a recent interview, Asghari praised Irwin, calling her “amazing” and highlighting how supportive she has been during his busy acting schedule. While discussing whether children could be part of their future, he admitted that family is something he wants someday. However, he emphasized that his current focus remains on establishing himself in Hollywood before taking that major step. Asghari explained that creating a stable future is important before expanding his family.  The actor has also hinted that marriage is not off the table. In previous interviews, he acknowledged that he and Irwin have discussed the possibility of getting engaged, though the couple is in no rush. Instead, they are enjoying spending time together, traveling when their schedules allow, and building a strong foundation for the future.  Asghari’s optimistic outlook comes after a highly publicized split from Britney Spears. The pair ended their marriage in 2024 after seven years together as a couple. Despite their divorce, Asghari has consistently spoken respectfully about Spears, saying he will always appreciate the chapter they shared because it helped shape the person he is today.  Professionally, Asghari is equally focused on expanding his acting career. Alongside new film projects, he has expressed a desire to take on more meaningful roles that reflect his personal experiences and cultural background. As he continues to build his Hollywood career, it is clear that he hopes to create a future where both his professional ambitions and family dreams can thrive together. 

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    Kim Kardashian pays heartfelt tribute to late gran…

    Kim Kardashian is remembering her beloved grandmother, Mary Jo “MJ” Campbell, with an emotional tribute that has touched the hearts of fans around the world. Just days after MJ’s passing on July 16, the reality star and entrepreneur honored what would have been her grandmother’s 92nd birthday with a heartfelt Instagram post filled with cherished memories and never-before-seen family photos.  The SKIMS founder shared a carousel of pictures celebrating the special bond she shared with her grandmother, who was a familiar face to fans of Keeping Up with the Kardashians and The Kardashians. Alongside the photos, Kim reflected on how the past week had revealed even more about the woman she admired so deeply. “Happy Heavenly 92nd Birthday grandma! It’s only been a week, but wow, the amount of things I’ve learned about you this week from going through all of your stuff with mom has been beautiful,” Kim wrote. She added that discovering more about MJ’s life had only deepened her admiration and love for her grandmother. “I miss you like crazy and I love you endlessly, my sweet grandma MJ.”  MJ, the mother of Kris Jenner, passed away at the age of 91 and was widely regarded as the heart of the Kardashian-Jenner family. She often appeared on the family’s reality shows, where her warm personality, humor, and close relationship with her grandchildren made her a fan favorite. Her influence extended far beyond television, as she inspired generations of her family through her work ethic, kindness, and unwavering support.  Kim has previously described MJ as her “best friend,” “gossip buddy,” and “forever twin.” In an earlier tribute following her grandmother’s death, she recalled receiving her very first job at MJ’s children’s boutique in San Diego, where she learned valuable lessons about business, confidence, and determination. Those experiences, Kim said, helped shape the entrepreneur she is today.  Kris Jenner also honored her late mother on what would have been her 92nd birthday, describing MJ as the foundation of their family and thanking her for the love, wisdom, and values she passed down to her children and grandchildren. The family continues to lean on one another as they grieve the loss of a woman whose legacy remains deeply woven into their lives.  Although MJ is no longer physically present, Kim’s touching birthday message serves as a reminder that love and memories can keep someone’s spirit alive forever. Through heartfelt tributes and treasured family stories, the Kardashian-Jenner family is ensuring that Mary Jo “MJ” Campbell’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

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    Jennifer Garner sends heartfelt message as Ben Aff…

    Jennifer Garner has seemingly paid a touching tribute to Ben Affleck’s late mother, Chris Anne Affleck, during a difficult time for the actor and his family. Although Garner did not release an official statement, fans quickly noticed a subtle yet meaningful gesture that many believe was dedicated to the beloved family matriarch following her passing.  Over the weekend, the 13 Going on 30 actress was spotted at the Brentwood Farmers Market in Los Angeles wearing a casual white T-shirt featuring the French phrase, “Maman Je T’aime,” which translates to “I love you, Mom.” The heartfelt message sparked widespread speculation online, with many interpreting it as a quiet tribute to Chris Anne Affleck, who died peacefully in her sleep on June 2 after battling pancreatic cancer. She was 83 years old.  Chris Anne Affleck, a Harvard graduate and longtime elementary school teacher, was admired not only for raising Oscar-winning actors Ben and Casey Affleck but also for her lifelong dedication to education, civil rights, and community service. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2025 and spent her final months surrounded by family. One of her last wishes was to attend her grandson’s high school graduation, a milestone she proudly celebrated just two days before her passing.  Garner and Ben Affleck were married from 2005 until their separation in 2015 and finalized their divorce in 2018. Despite ending their marriage, the former couple has remained committed to co-parenting their three children—Violet, Fin, and Samuel—and has often been praised for maintaining a respectful and supportive relationship.  Jennifer also shared a close bond with Chris Anne throughout her marriage and long after the divorce. The two were frequently photographed together at family gatherings, school events, and outings with the children, highlighting a relationship that extended beyond legal ties. Friends and fans have long admired the warmth and mutual respect they shared, making Jennifer’s recent gesture even more meaningful.  Ben Affleck has often credited his mother for shaping his life and career. In past interviews, he praised her intelligence, dedication to public education, and unwavering encouragement as he pursued acting. Her influence extended beyond her family through decades of teaching and activism, leaving behind a legacy that touched countless lives.  While Jennifer Garner has not publicly addressed Chris Anne Affleck’s passing, her understated message has resonated with many fans. At a time when Ben Affleck and his family continue to grieve, the simple expression of love serves as a reminder that meaningful relationships and lasting family bonds often endure, even after life takes unexpected turns. 

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    Kris Jenner remembers late mom MJ on her first hea…

    Kris Jenner is honoring the memory of her beloved mother, Mary Jo “MJ” Campbell, with an emotional tribute on what would have been her 92nd birthday. Just days after MJ’s passing on July 16, the Kardashian-Jenner matriarch took to Instagram to celebrate her mother’s life, expressing how deeply she misses the woman who shaped her family’s legacy. (people.com⁠) Sharing a collection of cherished family photos spanning several decades, Kris reflected on the irreplaceable role her mother played in her life. The heartfelt post featured smiling moments with children and grandchildren, capturing MJ’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. “Happy Heavenly Birthday to my beautiful mommy. Today you would have been 92. I miss you every single day. I love you more than words can say,” Kris wrote in part. She went on to thank her mother for the countless lessons she taught her, from strength and resilience to unconditional love and generosity. (people.com⁠) Mary Jo Campbell, affectionately known as “MJ,” was more than just the Kardashian-Jenner family matriarch. She became a familiar and much-loved face to millions of viewers through Keeping Up with the Kardashians and later The Kardashians. Fans admired her gentle personality, quick wit, and the close relationships she shared with Kris, Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Rob Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, and her great-grandchildren. (people.com⁠) Following MJ’s death, members of the Kardashian-Jenner family have continued to share touching tributes celebrating her remarkable life. Kim Kardashian recently posted never-before-seen family photos while revealing that sorting through her grandmother’s belongings had helped her learn even more about the woman she admired. She ended her tribute by writing, “I miss you like crazy,” highlighting the profound impact MJ had on the entire family. (people.com⁠) For Kris, her mother was a constant source of wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional support. Throughout the years, she often credited MJ with teaching her the values that guided both her family and her successful career. Their close bond was evident on screen and off, making her loss especially heartbreaking. Although this birthday was the first the family celebrated without MJ physically by their side, Kris’s emotional message made it clear that her mother’s love and influence remain deeply rooted in their lives. As the Kardashian-Jenner family continues to grieve, they are also celebrating a remarkable woman whose legacy of compassion, strength, and devotion will continue to inspire generations. Through heartfelt memories and treasured photographs, Kris Jenner ensured that her mother’s first heavenly birthday was not only a day of remembrance but also a celebration of a life filled with love, family, and lasting impact.

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    Christopher Nolan shares why romantic comedies ‘…

    Christopher Nolan has built a career on pushing cinematic boundaries with thought-provoking blockbusters such as Inception, Interstellar, The Dark Knight trilogy and the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer. But despite his success across multiple genres, the acclaimed filmmaker says there is one type of movie he has no desire to direct anytime soon—a romantic comedy.  While promoting his latest epic, The Odyssey, during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Nolan was asked whether fans could ever expect him to make a romantic comedy. Although the question was posed jokingly, the director gave a surprisingly thoughtful answer, admitting that the idea genuinely intimidates him.  “I think doing a rom-com would be incredibly difficult,” Nolan said. “I love watching those movies.” However, he explained that making audiences laugh consistently is one of the toughest challenges in filmmaking, giving immense credit to directors and actors who specialize in comedy.  The two-time Academy Award winner went on to explain why comedy demands a unique level of precision. According to Nolan, filmmakers working in dramatic or suspenseful genres have more room for interpretation if a particular scene doesn’t resonate with viewers. Comedy, on the other hand, leaves little room for error because jokes either land—or they don’t. That pressure, he admitted, is enough to make him “terrified” of attempting the genre himself.  Nolan’s comments have quickly sparked discussion among movie lovers, many of whom praised his honesty. Fans pointed out that although the filmmaker has mastered science fiction, historical drama, superhero films, psychological thrillers and war epics, his willingness to acknowledge the difficulty of comedy reflects his respect for fellow filmmakers.  Interestingly, while Nolan appears reluctant to direct a romantic comedy, he recently revealed that The Odyssey has increased his interest in another genre—horror. The filmmaker said working on the mythological adventure, which features several frightening sequences, has left him eager to explore horror further, provided he finds the right story.  The Odyssey, starring Matt Damon, Tom Holland and Anne Hathaway, marks another ambitious project for Nolan. Shot entirely using IMAX cameras, the film has received praise for its scale, practical effects and emotional storytelling, continuing the director’s tradition of delivering visually spectacular cinematic experiences.  Although fans may never see Christopher Nolan helm a lighthearted romantic comedy, his candid remarks highlight the immense respect he has for the genre. For now, the celebrated filmmaker remains committed to telling bold, ambitious stories—while happily leaving romantic laughs to directors who have mastered the art of comedy.