تازہ ترین

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    Pakistani showbiz stars who built careers beyond family legacy

    The debate around nepotism in Pakistan’s entertainment industry has continued for years, particularly after similar discussions gained momentum in neighbouring India following the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput. While several Pakistani celebrities have faced criticism for entering showbiz through family connections, there is another group of artists whose talent has largely overshadowed their famous family backgrounds. A recent Reviewit feature highlighted stars who, despite coming from influential showbiz families, established their own identities through years of hard work and consistent performances. The article notes that many viewers are unaware of the family backgrounds of these celebrities because they earned recognition on the strength of their own careers. Among them is actor and television host Adeel Hashmi, widely known for his memorable Ufone advertisements and versatile acting. Although he comes from a distinguished family—his mother is veteran media producer Muneeza Hashmi and he is the grandson of legendary poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz—Adeel has built his reputation through his own work in television and live performances. Another name on the list is Ali Tahir, who has spent over two decades in Pakistan’s television industry. Known for his performances in dramas such as Sher and Zard Patton Ka Bunn, Ali belongs to a family with a rich literary and broadcasting legacy. His grandfather was celebrated playwright Imtiaz Ali Taj, while his parents, Naeem Tahir and Yasmeen Tahir, also made significant contributions to the arts and media. The feature also highlights Momina Duraid, one of Pakistan’s most successful television producers. While she is connected to HUM Network founder Sultana Siddiqui through marriage, Reviewit credits Momina for establishing herself through acclaimed productions and for leading major projects, including Pakistan’s first Netflix series, Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo. Actress Hina Rizvi is another celebrity whose family has deep roots in the film industry. Despite being the sister of Lollywood veterans Sangeeta and Kavita, she has created a successful acting career of her own through diverse television roles. Similarly, producer Sana Shahnawaz, sister of Samina Humayun Saeed, has earned recognition by producing successful dramas including Man Mayal, Sinf-e-Aahan, Alif and Jaan-e-Jahan. The article also includes Ushna Shah, whose mother Ismat Tahira, sister Irsa Ghazal and brother Shah Sharabeel are all established names in Pakistani entertainment. Nevertheless, Ushna has become known for her own performances in dramas such as Bashar Momin and Alif Allah Aur Insaan. Other names featured are Fahad Mustafa, who successfully stepped out of the shadow of his father, Sindhi actor Salahuddin Tunio; Sheheryar Munawar, nephew of media entrepreneur Sultana Siddiqui; Nida Yasir, daughter of veteran PTV producer Kazim Pasha; and Bilal Maqsood, son of renowned writer Anwar Maqsood. According to Reviewit, each of these personalities has earned public recognition through individual achievements rather than relying solely on their family’s legacy, proving that while connections may open doors, long-term success depends on talent, dedication and consistent work. 

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    Dylan Mulvaney responds after Trump remarks

    Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney has responded after US President Donald Trump mentioned her several times during his speech at the rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Dinner, saying she was surprised to remain a topic of conversation years after her controversial Bud Light partnership. Mulvaney addressed the remarks in a TikTok video, where she congratulated CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins before responding to Trump’s comments. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, originally scheduled for April, was postponed after a gunman opened fire while the event was underway. During his speech on Friday, Trump congratulated CNN White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins on receiving a journalism award before joking about her success and comparing her to Mulvaney. Trump said, “I thought Kaitlan had really made it big with a major new sponsorship, but then I informed her that it wasn’t her on the Bud Light can, it was Dylan Mulvaney.” He went on to criticise Mulvaney’s 2023 promotional campaign with Bud Light, adding, “Dylan Mulvaney cost Bud Light $35 billion in market cap. That was the worst commercial ever made by the way, for those few people who want to hear that. Most people don’t care, but I would. I wouldn’t want to hire Dylan any time soon.” According to the report, Trump later shared an edited image on social media that placed Kaitlan Collins’ face onto Mulvaney’s body from the Bud Light advertisement, further extending the joke beyond the dinner. The post quickly circulated online and generated widespread discussion on social media. In a TikTok response posted on Sunday, Mulvaney began by congratulating Collins on her award. She said, “I would like to tell her that I’m incredibly honored to be compared to her in any way, and I hope that she keeps doing all the great work.” She then pointed out that Trump had mentioned her repeatedly during his speech, saying, “And yet I am still his topic of conversation all these years later.” Reflecting on the continued attention she receives, Mulvaney added, “It seems to me that I might be like the one that got away for these men.” She also made it clear that she would not want support from an administration whose policies she believes do not support her or many others, stating, “I wouldn’t want to be professionally supported by an administration that doesn’t personally support me or so many others in this country.” Mulvaney concluded her video with a pointed remark about the criticism she has received from the administration. “Maybe being publicly mocked and criticized by this administration is actually like the greatest compliment of all,” she said. Her response has since gone viral, drawing mixed reactions online, with supporters praising her composure while critics continued debating the controversy surrounding her Bud Light partnership and Trump’s remarks. 

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    Billions at stake: Senate questions NHA delays in …

    Islamabad: The National Highway Authority (NHA) is under pressure after a Senate committee expressed serious concerns over delays in project restructuring, slow progress on major road schemes and the need for better management of billions of rupees invested in national highways. The Senate Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives questioned why important decisions regarding NHA projects had not been completed on time and directed authorities to speed up work to prevent further delays. The committee, chaired by Senator Quratulain Marri, reviewed the progress of NHA projects and examined issues related to projects financed through the Cash Development Loan system. Officials informed the committee that NHA was preparing a complete debt restructuring plan in coordination with the Ministry of Communications and Finance Division. The committee expressed concern over delays in implementing earlier decisions of the Economic Coordination Committee regarding the review and separation of NHA projects under the Public Sector Development Programme. Senator Quratulain Marri said the review process should have been completed much earlier and questioned why important decisions were still pending. NHA officials informed the committee that the review of projects was currently underway and assured members that the process would be completed as soon as possible. The committee also reviewed progress on major highway projects, including the M6 Motorway and N55 Highway. Officials informed the committee that the groundbreaking ceremony for the M6 Motorway Project is expected later this year. Regarding the N5 Highway, NHA officials said rehabilitation work on different sections was currently continuing with financial support from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Officials told the committee that NHA conducts yearly surveys of highways to check their condition and classify roads as poor, fair or good. They said these surveys help authorities identify damaged sections and plan repair and maintenance work before conditions become worse. The committee also examined progress on the foreign funded portion of the N55 project. Officials informed members that the project was divided into different sections and progress varied across each part. They said one section from Shikarpur to Kandhkot had achieved 34 percent physical progress, with only eight months remaining before the completion deadline. The committee stressed that the remaining work must be completed within the planned time because delays increase costs and affect public convenience. Officials also informed the committee that another section from Kandhkot to Kashmore had achieved 22 percent progress and may face difficulties in meeting the original completion schedule. However, officials said other sections of the project were expected to be completed on time. The committee warned that delays in road projects not only waste public resources but also slow economic growth, trade activities and travel facilities for citizens. Senator Quratulain Marri emphasized that government departments should focus on completing existing projects before starting new development schemes. She said limited public funds must be used carefully and ongoing projects should receive priority until they are substantially completed. The committee directed NHA and relevant departments to improve coordination, complete pending reviews and ensure that important highway projects move forward without unnecessary delays.

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    Jungkook returned Felix’s glasses after viral concert moment

    BTS member Jungkook has finally addressed one of the most talked-about moments from his surprise appearance at Stray Kids’ recent concert, revealing what happened after Felix’s glasses ended up in his hands during the show. The singer shared the story during a livestream, where he reflected on the viral incident that quickly spread across social media and sparked widespread curiosity among fans. Jungkook explained that he attended the concert specifically to support Stray Kids leader Bang Chan, whom he described as a longtime friend. His unexpected appearance at the show immediately drew attention from fans, and videos of his interactions with Bang Chan became some of the most shared clips from the event. The biggest talking point, however, was the moment when Stray Kids member Felix threw his glasses into the crowd and Jungkook somehow ended up holding them. Fans were left wondering whether the glasses had been intentionally thrown toward the BTS star or whether it was simply a coincidence. During the livestream, Jungkook admitted that he was just as surprised as everyone else. He said, “I was so shocked.” He then explained that a staff member standing next to him had actually caught the glasses first. “The staff member next to me got it first, and I was like, ‘How did it come towards me?’” he recalled. The BTS singer clarified that the glasses somehow ended up being passed into his hands, which led to the now-viral videos that circulated online shortly after the concert. His candid reaction amused fans, many of whom had already been joking about the unexpected crossover between BTS and Stray Kids. Jungkook also put an end to speculation about what happened to the glasses afterwards. He reassured fans that he returned them to Felix once the concert was over, saying he did not keep the item despite it becoming a highly sought-after viral moment. His explanation quickly delighted both BTS and Stray Kids fans, who flooded social media with reactions. Many praised Jungkook for his honesty and said the story made the incident even funnier, while others celebrated the friendly relationship between the two K-pop groups. The livestream has since generated millions of views, with clips of Jungkook recounting the story continuing to trend online. Fans were particularly charmed by how genuinely surprised he appeared while describing the moment, saying it showed his natural and unfiltered personality. Jungkook’s concert appearance has become one of the most memorable recent interactions between major K-pop stars, and his latest comments have finally answered the question that had been circulating online for days: Felix’s glasses were safely returned after the show, ending the mystery surrounding the viral souvenir moment.

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    D4vd’s Apple Music hacked during court hearing

    American singer d4vd’s Apple Music account was reportedly hacked after an unauthorised track appeared on his artist profile while he was attending a preliminary court hearing in the murder case linked to the death of teenager Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The incident quickly drew attention online as fans noticed unusual activity on the singer’s streaming page. According to screenshots obtained by TMZ, d4vd’s Apple Music profile briefly displayed a fake song titled I DID IT…, which had not been officially released by the artist. Fans soon linked the track to an unreleased demo believed to be called Celeste, sparking widespread speculation across social media. Although the demo was never officially released, listeners recognised parts of its lyrics. One of the lines reportedly heard in the leaked track reads, “Oh Celeste, the girl with my name tattooed on her chest.” The appearance of the song during the ongoing court proceedings further fuelled online discussion surrounding the case. The reported hack came as d4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, attended preliminary hearings in Los Angeles Superior Court. Prosecutors are presenting evidence in a case accusing Burke of murdering 13-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, who was found dead in 2025. He has denied the allegations, and the legal proceedings remain ongoing. During the fourth day of hearings on July 24, prosecutors presented text messages exchanged between Burke and Rivas Hernandez in January 2024. The messages reportedly discussed a pregnancy and abortion. According to court records, Rivas Hernandez wrote, “Both of us aren’t able to take care of it.” Burke allegedly replied, “I know but still.” Prosecutors displayed the messages as part of the evidence supporting the case against the singer. Authorities allege that Rivas Hernandez was killed in April 2025 at Burke’s Hollywood Hills home. Her remains were discovered several months later, in September 2025, inside a Tesla registered to the singer. Following an investigation, officials ruled her death a homicide. Burke was arrested on April 17, 2026, nearly a year after investigators concluded that the teenager had been killed on April 23, 2025. He now faces murder charges, and the case continues to move through the court system. The unauthorised upload on his Apple Music profile has added another layer of public attention to an already high-profile legal case, though there is no indication that the singer was connected to the apparent hack. 

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    Sonakshi Sinha praises Gen Z after minister’s resignation

    Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha has applauded India’s Generation Z after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned following weeks of nationwide student protests over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the 2026 NEET-UG entrance examination. The actress, who had publicly supported the protesting students throughout their campaign, celebrated the development with an emotional message on social media. Dharmendra Pradhan stepped down from his position on Saturday, July 25, after sustained demonstrations by students demanding accountability over alleged examination paper leaks and concerns about the fairness of the 2026 NEET-UG medical entrance test. The protests gained momentum across India, with thousands of students calling for reforms in the examination system. Soon after the resignation made headlines, Sonakshi took to Instagram to congratulate the young protesters, whom she credited for bringing about change through their determination and persistence. Although she belongs to the millennial generation, the actress said the students had inspired her and completely changed her perception of Gen Z. In the caption accompanying her video, Sonakshi wrote, “Sorry what i meant to say was that i’m proud of you and THANK YOU. Brb now… millenial sathiya gayi hai. 25.07.2026. What a day!!!” The post quickly attracted widespread attention, with many social media users praising her for acknowledging the efforts of the student movement. In the video, the Dabangg actress expressed her admiration for the younger generation. She said, “Brother, you have no idea what you’ve achieved today. I’m an artist, bro, but Gen Z is the art. You know, I used to underestimate Gen Z.” She admitted that she had previously misunderstood the generation, saying, “I’d think, ‘They just do things on a whim, get tired, and nothing really comes of it.’” However, she acknowledged that the protests had changed her opinion completely. Praising the students’ determination, Sonakshi continued, “But I take my hat off to you for this. Salute! Look at me now—I want to be you; I want to be Gen Z. What have you all done? It’s unbelievable.” In a light-hearted gesture, the actress even performed sit-ups in the video as a playful apology for previously underestimating Generation Z. Her remarks quickly went viral across social media platforms, where many users appreciated her willingness to acknowledge the impact of student activism. Supporters said her message reflected the growing recognition of Gen Z’s role in driving social and political conversations, while others praised the students for remaining united throughout the protests. Sonakshi’s post has since become one of the most widely shared celebrity reactions to the minister’s resignation, highlighting the influence of youth-led movements and the growing public support for greater transparency and accountability in India’s education system. 

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    Jewellery emerges as luxury’s fastest-growing segment

    Luxury jewellery is becoming one of the strongest-performing categories in the global fashion industry as demand for traditional products such as handbags and shoes continues to slow. Industry analysts say major luxury houses are increasingly investing in jewellery, viewing it as the sector with the greatest growth potential amid changing consumer preferences. The shift has benefited both established jewellery brands and smaller luxury labels. Companies that were once known primarily for fashion and leather goods are now placing greater emphasis on expanding their jewellery collections to attract consumers looking for timeless, investment-worthy pieces. Among the biggest beneficiaries are luxury groups Richemont and LVMH, which own some of the world’s leading jewellery brands. However, smaller brands have also recorded strong growth, encouraging fashion-focused companies to strengthen their presence in the category. According to the report, the industry’s positive performance has renewed interest in jewellery across the luxury sector. French luxury group Kering, which owns jewellery brands Pomellato and Boucheron, reported particularly strong results earlier this year. The company announced in April that sales from its new jewellery division increased 22% on a comparable basis during the first quarter, outperforming all of its other business segments. The figures highlighted jewellery’s growing importance as a revenue driver. Luxury brand Hermès has also experienced rapid growth in jewellery. Analysts at investment firm Vontobel estimate that the company’s jewellery business has achieved a compound annual growth rate of nearly 30% since 2019, although they note that the division still represents a relatively small part of Hermès’ overall business. Industry experts believe this trend reflects broader changes in consumer behaviour. Luxury analyst Madjo said, “Even at soft luxury players like Hermes, Prada, Gucci, everybody’s putting a bit more emphasis on jewellery because that’s where the growth is coming from right now. So you want to be exposed to that.” At the same time, traditional luxury categories such as handbags and shoes are facing increasing pressure. Hermès, whose reputation has long been built around its highly exclusive Birkin bags, recently saw its shares fall about 10% after reporting weaker-than-expected first-quarter growth. The results prompted questions about whether the company’s scarcity-based business model can continue delivering the same level of success. Claudia D’Arpizio, senior partner at consultancy Bain & Company, said changing consumer tastes are reshaping the luxury market. “Bags and shoes are facing meaningful headwinds, as both have experienced significant softening in consumer desirability, particularly among younger audiences,” she said. She added that these categories have traditionally generated strong revenues and profit margins, but post-pandemic market conditions have made them far more challenging. According to D’Arpizio, luxury brands must now develop new strategies to remain competitive, with jewellery increasingly emerging as one of the industry’s most promising growth opportunities.

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    Rick and Morty season 9 finale leaves fans heartbroken

    The season 9 finale of Rick and Morty has left fans emotional after delivering one of the series’ darkest and most heartbreaking endings. Titled Field of Dreams, the episode shifts its focus to Morty as he embarks on an emotional journey across different realities, forcing him to confront difficult truths about himself, Rick and the meaning of family. The finale has since sparked widespread discussion among viewers, many calling it one of the show’s most powerful episodes to date. The episode begins with Morty travelling through multiple dimensions, attending the funerals of alternate versions of himself in search of a sense of belonging. His journey eventually leads him to a parallel Smith family mourning the loss of their own Morty. Unlike the dysfunctional family he knows, this version has distanced itself from Rick because of his destructive behaviour and alcoholism, creating what appears to be a healthier home environment. For a brief moment, Morty experiences the warmth and stability he has always wanted. The alternate family treats him with kindness, making him question whether his own life could have been different. However, the illusion of a perfect family soon begins to unravel as Morty’s presence unintentionally changes their lives, proving that no reality is truly free from pain or consequences. The emotional core of the finale centres on Professor Rick, a version of Rick who abandoned his destructive lifestyle and spent years attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings after losing Diane. Morty eventually tells him the truth about Diane’s fate, offering him comfort but also reopening old wounds. The revelation ultimately pushes Professor Rick back toward alcohol, suggesting that even the best versions of Rick cannot completely escape their past. As Morty watches yet another family fall apart, he begins blaming himself for the destruction around him. Believing that he brings chaos wherever he goes, he returns to his own dimension emotionally defeated. The closing scene features Rick taking Morty on a motorcycle ride before drunkenly declaring that he is Morty’s father. Rather than rejecting the statement, Morty quietly accepts it, implying that he now sees his future as inseparable from Rick’s influence. The ending has particularly resonated with fans because it suggests Morty is finally accepting that he may become more like Rick than he ever wanted. Instead of offering hope, the finale presents a bleak emotional conclusion in which Morty sees himself as someone who damages the lives of those around him. Critics have described the episode as one of the series’ most mature explorations of identity, trauma and family relationships. A post-credit scene hints that more interdimensional chaos lies ahead, setting up future storylines for season 10. While the finale leaves several questions unanswered, it succeeds in delivering an emotionally devastating conclusion that has earned praise from critics and viewers alike. Many fans have called Field of Dreams one of the strongest Rick and Morty finales ever produced, applauding its willingness to place emotional storytelling above spectacle.

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    Bridgerton season 5 confirms new cast changes

    Netflix’s hit period drama Bridgerton is officially in production for its fifth season, with the streaming giant confirming that the series will return in 2027. As filming gets underway, details about the cast have begun to emerge, including one confirmed departure, several returning favourites and a former lead who says she is still waiting for an invitation to return. Season five will focus on Francesca Bridgerton, played by Hannah Dodd, as the story explores her life following the death of her husband, John Stirling. Masali Baduza will reprise her role as Michaela Stirling, who is expected to play a central part in Francesca’s emotional journey throughout the upcoming season. Netflix is also expanding the show’s ensemble with several new additions. Tega Alexander has been cast as Christopher Anderson, while Jacqueline Boatswain will portray Helen Stirling. Gemma Knight Jones is joining the series as Lady Elizabeth Ashworth, introducing fresh characters to the Bridgerton universe. A number of familiar faces are also set to return. The confirmed returning cast includes Ruth Gemmell as Violet Bridgerton, Golda Rosheuvel as Queen Charlotte, Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury, and Claudia Jessie as Eloise Bridgerton. Showrunner Jess Brownell has also confirmed that Alice and Will Mondrich will continue to be part of the story, ensuring the Mondrich family remains involved in the series. Nicola Coughlan has confirmed she will return as Penelope Bridgerton, although fans should expect to see less of her this season. Speaking previously on the Dish podcast, she said, “Season five had started filming already, so I won’t be in it very much. I’m always happy to come back. I think it’s a genuinely lovely job to come back to.” Several other major cast members—including Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Luke Newton and Polly Walker—are widely expected to reprise their roles. However, Netflix has not yet officially confirmed their involvement in the upcoming season. The most significant confirmed departure is Victor Alli, who is not expected to return following the death of John Stirling in season four. Meanwhile, former series lead Phoebe Dynevor, who played Daphne Bridgerton, revealed that she has not yet been contacted about returning. She previously said, “I have not received a call. When I get that call, I will be there if I can,” indicating that she remains open to reprising her role if the opportunity arises. With filming now underway, fans can expect more casting announcements and story details to emerge ahead of the show’s anticipated 2027 release. 

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    Zelensky alleges Russia shared satellite intelligence with Iran to target US bases

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of helping Iran identify US military positions in the Gulf by providing satellite intelligence, adding another layer of tension to the already strained relationship between Moscow, Tehran, and Kyiv. His remarks come as Ukraine and Iran exchange fresh accusations following an attack on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea. In a statement shared on social media, Zelensky claimed that Ukraine had observed increased Russian satellite monitoring of Gulf countries and American military installations since the beginning of July. According to him, the satellite images were later used by Iran, with a noticeable connection between the timing of the surveillance and Iranian attacks. He alleged that the imagery was gathered before strikes to assist with planning and then again afterward to evaluate the extent of the damage. While Zelensky did not release evidence to support the claim, he insisted the pattern was clear and significant. The allegations surfaced shortly after Ukraine announced a series of long range military operations in the Caspian Sea. Zelensky said Ukrainian forces had successfully struck vessels carrying military cargo linked to Iran as well as a warship. Ukrainian intelligence later stated that drones had targeted sanctioned cargo ships allegedly involved in transporting military equipment between Iran and Russia. The operation marked one of Kyiv’s most direct actions against assets connected to Tehran and reflected Ukraine’s growing willingness to challenge countries it believes are supporting Russia’s war effort. Iran reacted strongly to the reported strikes. The Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned Ukraine’s senior diplomat in Tehran to protest what it described as a hostile and unlawful attack. Iranian officials said one sailor was killed and several others were injured when a commercial vessel exploded following the strike. The ministry rejected any suggestion that Iran had played a role in the war between Russia and Ukraine and insisted the country had remained outside the conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also condemned the attack, describing it as a serious violation of the United Nations Charter. He claimed the operation had been carried out to advance Israeli interests and accused Kyiv of trying to draw Europe deeper into the regional conflict. Araghchi said he had discussed the matter with European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, warning that Iran would not allow the incident to pass without a response. Zelensky’s latest accusations regarding Russian support for Iran are not entirely new. Earlier reports citing US officials claimed that Moscow had shared intelligence with Tehran about American military positions in the Middle East during the recent conflict involving Iran and the United States. Those reports also suggested that China could have played a supporting role, although no public evidence has confirmed those claims. The issue has also created mixed messages within the US government. During a congressional hearing, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged that Russia and China were helping Iran in different ways. He said there was clear cooperation among American rivals but declined to discuss the full extent of that support, arguing that the details should remain classified for security reasons. Only days later, however, President Donald Trump publicly disagreed with that assessment. Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he did not believe Russia or China had assisted Iran. He stated that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping had assured him they were not involved in supporting Iranian military operations. Despite those conflicting views, Zelensky maintained that Russian satellite activity offered direct evidence of cooperation. He specifically pointed to satellite surveillance conducted on July 19 and 20, claiming Russian satellites closely monitored four air bases used by the United States in Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. According to the Ukrainian leader, the timing of those observations raised serious concerns about Russia’s role in helping Iran monitor American military assets in the region.