تازہ ترین

  • | | |

    President delays assent for 19 high court judges

    The appointment of 19 additional judges to four high courts remains pending as President Asif Ali Zardari has yet to approve the summary. The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) approved the nominations during meetings held on July 20 and 21. The proposed appointments involve the Lahore High Court, Sindh High Court, Balochistan High Court and Islamabad High Court. Nine days have passed since the JCP approved the nominations. However, the president has not yet given his assent to the summary. The delay has caused concern within the government. A senior cabinet member questioned why the approval had not yet been granted. The official argued that the summary was initiated by the JCP rather than the prime minister. Therefore, according to the government’s position, the president could not send it back to the prime minister for reconsideration. The official also warned that continued inaction could create further tension within the superior judiciary. The government’s legal team is reportedly examining possible options to address the issue. The matter has also exposed differences between the government and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). According to government officials, the PPP leadership is unhappy with the JCP because some of its preferred nominees were not considered for judicial appointments. The PPP had shown particular interest in securing the appointment of two candidates to the Sindh High Court. However, neither the judicial nor executive members of the JCP supported their nominations. Officials said the candidates were below the age of 45. Both government and judicial representatives reportedly agreed that nominees below that age should not be approved. PPP Senator Farooq H Naek, a senior legal figure and member of the JCP, had proposed 33 candidates for the four high courts. His proposed list included 16 candidates for the Sindh High Court, 10 for the Lahore High Court, five for the Balochistan High Court and two for the Islamabad High Court. A member of the commission said the PPP could potentially have secured appointments for other candidates from interior Sindh. Some of those candidates were considered sympathetic to the party. However, the commission member claimed that the party’s insistence on its two preferred nominees affected the outcome. The dispute comes amid wider political and judicial developments involving Sindh. JCP judicial members have already reached a consensus on the performance of constitutional benches in the Sindh High Court. The judges serving on those benches were given three months to demonstrate their performance. The commission’s judicial members also opposed the confirmation of Sindh High Court Additional Judge Syed Fiaz ul Hassan Shah. The development was viewed by some political circles as another setback for the PPP. The party has historically sought influence over judicial appointments in Sindh and other provinces. Last year, the PPP was able to influence appointments in several high courts, including the Sindh High Court, Peshawar High Court and Lahore High Court. The judicial landscape has also changed following the 27th Constitutional Amendment. After the amendment, Justice K K Agha was elevated to the newly established Federal Constitutional Court. Another judge of the Sindh High Court was transferred to the Islamabad High Court.

  • |

    Shift in Democratic backing signals growing rift over US support for Israel

    A long-standing bipartisan consensus in Washington regarding unyielding support for Israel is facing unprecedented strain, primarily driven by deepening fractures within the Democratic Party. Escalating military action in Gaza, broader regional conflict, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s close alignment with US Republicans have steadily eroded traditional Democratic backing, threatening to transform America’s foreign policy landscape into a sharp partisan divide. This internal tension is increasingly evident across Capitol Hill and key electoral contests. Congressional votes attempting to restrict or eliminate annual military assistance, which amounts to billions of dollars alongside recent emergency packages, have gained significant momentum, drawing support from senior figures like former Speaker Nancy Pelosi despite pushback from House leadership. High-profile primary races in battlegrounds such as Michigan, Florida, and Colorado highlight this rift, pitting progressive candidates advocating a complete halt to military funding against establishment figures emphasising the strategic necessity of security ties. Recent public opinion polls reinforce this realignment, with a solid majority of Democratic voters maintaining that Washington is overly supportive of Israel, reflecting a generational shift that could permanently alter future US diplomatic relations.

  • |

    Indian authorities suspend police constable over assault rifle deployment at student rally

    Indian law enforcement authorities have suspended a police constable in the eastern state of Bihar after social media footage revealed him discharging an AK-47 assault rifle into the air to disperse a student demonstration in the city of Siwan. Senior Bihar police official Nilesh Kumar confirmed that the officer, who was carrying the weapon as part of a specialised intelligence unit, acted without justification or authorisation when firing live rounds above the crowd, adding that formal disciplinary proceedings have been initiated despite no injuries being reported. The incident marks the latest escalation in weeks of nationwide youth demonstrations sparked by question paper leaks in the NEET national medical entrance examination. Fueled further by broader anxieties surrounding high youth unemployment and technological job displacement, the persistent protests recently forced the resignation of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The police crackdown has drawn intense condemnation from opposition lawmakers and legal authorities alike. In parliament, Congress party chief Mallikarjun Kharge denounced the deployment of assault rifles against unarmed students as a grave assault on democratic norms and demanded clear governmental accountability. The harsh crowd-control measures also prompted rare public criticism from Supreme Court Judge Ujjal Bhuyan, who warned against the steady erosion of fundamental freedoms and the public space required for peaceful demonstration.

  • |

    Rome to host US-mediated Israel-Lebanon negotiations on southern pilot zones

    Technical delegations from Israel and Lebanon will assemble in Rome from August 4 to 6 for a fresh round of United States-brokered talks designed to advance the implementation of their bilateral framework agreement. First disclosed by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and subsequently confirmed by the US State Department, the upcoming dialogue will address the expansion of designated pilot zones in southern Lebanon alongside broader border resolutions and long-term peace objectives. The core terms of the underlying framework deal, established after conflict flared between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in March, require a cessation of hostilities, the disarming of Hezbollah, the national deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and a structured, phased withdrawal of Israeli forces commencing from two initial pilot areas. Negotiators aim to leverage early operational data from these initial zones to refine the broader security rollout and facilitate a progressive expansion of government control throughout the border region. The upcoming diplomatic round occurs amidst friction on the ground, with the Lebanese military recently condemning persistent Israeli artillery shelling and strikes in southern territory, cautioning that continued operations directly impede the full deployment of state troops outlined in the agreement.

  • |

    Search for survivors intensifies after devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake strikes southern Japan

    Emergency responders in southwestern Japan are racing against time to locate survivors trapped in rubble following a powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake that killed at least 13 people in the Kumamoto region of Kyushu island. The powerful tremor, which struck at a shallow depth of ten kilometres, flattened residential homes, triggered severe fires, ruptured critical bridges, and cut electricity to nearly 37,000 households. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the death toll during an official address in Tokyo, while chief cabinet spokesman Minoru Kihara noted that at least seven individuals suffered severe injuries and more than 9,000 residents sought safety across hundreds of emergency evacuation shelters. Search operations remain heavily concentrated in the town of Kashima, where part of the Aeon Mall collapsed after a gas explosion ripped through the structure shortly after the primary quake. Rescue teams in specialised gear navigated twisted steel girders and fallen concrete inside the shopping centre, where at least two women lost their lives and eight others were pulled from the debris. Meanwhile, in Yatsushiro city, search crews continue to look for nine workers unaccounted for at a Nippon Paper Industries plant after a large smokestack collapsed onto the facility below. The seismic shock registering at the maximum level on Japan’s intensity scale caused widespread logistical disruption across Kyushu island, derailing a cargo train, suspending high-speed bullet train lines, and causing structural collapses at the historic centuries-old Kumamoto Castle. In response, the Japanese military has deployed 3,600 personnel alongside 20 reconnaissance aircraft to support disaster relief efforts, clear impassable roads, and assess localised damage in remote communities.

  • |

    AJK’s JAAC accused of pursuing foreign agenda to sabotage regional polls

    Pakistan federal ministers and Azad Jammu and Kashmir authorities have publicly accused the proscribed Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee of deploying armed violence and operating under Indian financial backing to disrupt the region’s legislative assembly elections. During a joint press conference in Islamabad, State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar asserted that the group’s ongoing campaign aims to disenfranchise local voters rather than secure public rights. Chaudhry stated that thirty-seven of the committee’s thirty-eight demands had already been accepted by the government, rendering the continuing street agitation unjustified. Information Minister Tarar added that law enforcement agencies recently uncovered an India-linked digital campaign network funding social media operations and bot farms specifically to amplify content associated with the banned organization. The press conference coincided with statements from Azad Kashmir officials in Muzaffarabad following violent confrontations between law enforcement and protesters in Rawalakot. Regional police and administration spokespersons confirmed that five police officers sustained injuries from automatic gunfire during the clashes, alleging that armed elements within the movement have used civilians as shields. Despite the unrest in parts of the region, government representatives highlighted that roughly six hundred thousand citizens participated in the initial voting phase across Mirpur Division, characterising the high turnout as a definitive public rejection of efforts to derail the democratic process.

  • | |

    Mathira and Sahiba’s runway walk goes viral after near falls

    Pakistani showbiz personalities Mathira and Sahiba have become the centre of attention on social media after videos from a fashion show went viral. The videos were widely shared by users. However, their runway walk itself was not the main reason for the attention. Instead, viewers focused on several incidents that took place during the fashion show. Mathira and Sahiba were among several celebrities who walked the runway during the event. The show featured a number of participants who appeared on the catwalk one after another. However, several participants struggled to maintain their balance while walking. Some were seen stumbling. Others appeared to come close to falling. The unusual moments were captured on video. The clips were later shared across social media platforms. The videos quickly attracted the attention of users. Many viewers began discussing the condition of the runway. Several social media users claimed that the runway appeared uneven. They suggested that its condition may have made it difficult for participants to walk properly. Some viewers questioned whether the runway had been properly inspected before the fashion show. Others criticised the event organisers. They said the catwalk should have been checked carefully before participants were allowed to walk on it. One social media user claimed that the runway was visibly damaged. The user said the problem should have been identified and fixed before the event. Another user pointed out that several participants appeared to struggle while walking. The comments were not limited to criticism of the organisers. Some users also discussed the skills required for runway walking. They argued that walking confidently on a fashion runway requires professional practice and training. According to these users, models and celebrities need to be comfortable with different types of catwalk surfaces. The viral videos have generated mixed reactions online. Some users focused on the condition of the runway. Others commented on the participants’ walking techniques. The incident has also raised questions about safety arrangements at fashion events. A properly prepared runway is important for participants because even a minor surface problem can affect their balance. The videos continue to circulate on social media. Users are sharing the clips while offering different explanations for what happened. Neither Mathira nor Sahiba’s runway appearance was the only part of the event discussed online. Instead, the moments when participants stumbled became the main talking point. The incident has once again highlighted how quickly unusual moments at entertainment events can attract attention on social media.

  • | |

    Hamza Sohail’s new look sparks Chulbul Pandey comparisons

    Pakistani actor Hamza Sohail has grabbed attention on social media with his latest appearance. Fans were quick to compare his new look with Salman Khan’s iconic character Chulbul Pandey from the Bollywood film Dabangg. Hamza recently shared a short mirror video on his Instagram Story. He appeared in a noticeably different style. The actor was seen wearing glasses and sporting a thick moustache. His new appearance was a clear change from his usual clean-shaven look. The unexpected transformation immediately caught the attention of his followers. Fans began discussing his new style across social media platforms. Several users compared Hamza’s moustache-and-glasses look to Salman Khan’s portrayal of police officer Chulbul Pandey. The character became widely popular after Salman Khan played the role in the blockbuster Dabangg franchise. Fans praised Hamza’s latest appearance in the comments and online posts. Many described him as a “hero” and a “90s-style hero”. Others called him extremely dashing. Several fans also used fire emojis to show their appreciation for the new look. The new appearance comes as Hamza continues to attract attention both for his acting and his personal life. Rumours surrounding Hamza Sohail and actress Sajal Aly have also recently gained momentum on social media. However, the latest discussion surrounding the actor has largely focused on his dramatic change in appearance. Hamza is considered one of the prominent young actors in Pakistani television. He is the son of renowned actor and comedian Sohail Ahmed. Despite coming from an established entertainment family, Hamza has worked to build his own identity in the industry. The actor began his television career with the drama Raqeeb. His performance helped him establish himself as a young talent. He later gained wider recognition through the comedy drama Fairy Tale. The show brought him considerable popularity among television viewers. Hamza subsequently appeared in Zard Patton Ka Bunn. His performance in the drama was also appreciated by audiences. Over the years, the actor has continued to experiment with different roles and appearances. His latest style has once again placed him in the spotlight. The comparison with Salman Khan’s Chulbul Pandey has added further interest to his new appearance.

  • | |

    Madison Beer announces engagement to Justin Herbert

    Singer-songwriter Madison Beer has announced her engagement to NFL quarterback Justin Herbert, sharing the joyful news with fans through her official Instagram account. The surprise announcement quickly captured widespread attention, marking a major personal milestone for the couple after months of public appearances and growing speculation about their relationship. Beer revealed the engagement by posting a collection of photographs from the proposal, which took place in a scenic outdoor setting surrounded by flowers and mountain views. The images showed Herbert getting down on one knee before the pair embraced and celebrated the moment together. Keeping the caption simple yet meaningful, Beer wrote, “meet my fiancé,” confirming the engagement to her millions of followers. The post immediately drew an outpouring of congratulations from fans, friends, and fellow celebrities, with many celebrating the couple’s happy news in the comments. Within hours, the announcement had generated millions of likes and widespread discussion across social media platforms. Beer and Herbert were first linked romantically in 2025 before making their relationship public. Since then, they have occasionally shared glimpses of their life together while largely maintaining a private relationship. Earlier this year, Herbert also made an appearance in Beer’s “Lovergirl” music video, giving fans another look at their partnership beyond the headlines. Beer has built a successful music career through projects including Life Support and Silence Between Songs, earning praise for her emotional songwriting and powerful vocals. Herbert, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the NFL’s leading quarterbacks, admired for his performances on the field and calm leadership. Although the couple has not announced wedding plans or shared additional details about the ceremony, the engagement marks an exciting new chapter in both of their lives. For fans who have followed Beer’s journey over the years, the Instagram announcement offered a heartfelt glimpse into a deeply personal moment, one that was celebrated around the world almost instantly after it was shared. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffbenjamin/2026/07/28/madison-beer-engaged-to-nfl-star-justin-herbert/

  • | |

    Dakota Johnson goes blonde to portray Marilyn Monroe in flesh impact

    Dakota Johnson has undergone a dramatic transformation, debuting platinum blonde hair to portray Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe in the upcoming short film Flesh Impact. Newly released first-look images showcase the actress with Monroe’s signature curled hairstyle, bold red lipstick, and famous beauty mark, offering audiences an early glimpse of one of her most striking screen appearances to date. Written and directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Maggie Gyllenhaal, Flesh Impact is a 17-minute short film created to mark what would have been Monroe’s 100th birthday. Rather than telling the story of Monroe’s life through a conventional biographical approach, the project presents an imaginative exploration of her legacy by examining both the woman the world knew and the future she never had the chance to experience. Johnson portrays Monroe during the height of her Hollywood career, while Academy Award-winning actress Ellen Burstyn plays an imagined older version of the screen legend. The cast also includes Sepideh Moafi and Peter Sarsgaard, adding further depth to the film’s unique interpretation of Monroe’s enduring influence. Gyllenhaal has described the project as an opportunity to look beyond Monroe’s glamorous public image and reflect on the complexity, vulnerability, and resilience that defined her life. The filmmaker aims to celebrate Monroe not simply as a global celebrity but as a woman whose story continues to resonate with audiences around the world decades after her death. Flesh Impact is set to make its world premiere at the 2026 Venice International Film Festival, where Ellen Burstyn will also be honoured with the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. Following the release of the first images, Johnson’s transformation has already generated widespread attention, with many praising the actress’s remarkable resemblance to Monroe. More than six decades after her passing, Marilyn Monroe remains one of cinema’s most recognisable and influential figures, remembered for classics including Some Like It Hot, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and The Seven Year Itch. With Flesh Impact, Gyllenhaal and her cast hope to honour Monroe’s lasting legacy while offering audiences a thoughtful and imaginative perspective on the Hollywood icon’s extraordinary life. https://www.instagram.com/p/DbVfWs0Dpab/?igsh=Z3hwZjhteGdydXB5