تازہ ترین

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    PM expresses displeasure over Islamabad officials?…

      ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken serious notice of the use of a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy by Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police (IGP) during an official function held on August 14, according to official documents. The incident occurred during the Independence Day celebrations in Islamabad, when Chief Commissioner Lt. (Retd.) Sohail Ashraf and IGP Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi travelled to the event in the ceremonial buggy. The display later drew criticism on social media and prompted the government to issue an advisory to both senior officials. According to documents, a formal advisory was issued on Monday by Establishment Division Joint Secretary (Discipline) Syeda Shafaq Hashmi to the Islamabad IGP and Chief Commissioner. The advisory stated that the prime minister had expressed “disappointment and displeasure” over the incident and had taken a serious view of the matter. The document noted that the use of the ceremonial vehicle had attracted considerable public criticism and created an impression of excessive pomp and privilege. It said such a display was inconsistent with the values and responsibilities associated with public service. The advisory reminded the officials that civil servants and public office holders serve the people and are expected to maintain humility, restraint, dignity and sound judgment while performing their duties. According to the Establishment Division, conduct that conveys an impression of ostentation or personal privilege can negatively affect public confidence in government institutions. The advisory stressed that senior government functionaries are expected to maintain high standards of propriety, discipline and responsible governance. The officials were directed to exercise greater caution in the discharge of their responsibilities and ensure that such an incident does not happen again. The instructions were issued for “strict compliance” in both letter and spirit. The controversy gained wider attention after photographs and videos of the two officials using the buggy circulated on social media during the Independence Day celebrations. The incident prompted Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to clarify the circumstances surrounding the officials’ use of the ceremonial vehicle. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended the Islamabad police chief and chief commissioner, saying that neither official should be blamed for using the buggy. In a statement posted on X on August 15, Naqvi acknowledged that the situation had not unfolded as intended but said the two officials were not responsible for the decision. Naqvi explained that the ceremonial buggy had originally been arranged for the chief guest. However, the chief guest and the interior minister were delayed because of a meeting involving President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He said the two Islamabad officials had initially been reluctant to begin the programme in the absence of the chief guest and the interior minister. However, they were specifically instructed to proceed with the event so that members of the public would not face unnecessary inconvenience. “The buggy was arranged for the chief guest but, unfortunately, due to unavoidable circumstances, it was used by the officers,” Naqvi explained. The minister further said that both officials had initially resisted proceeding without the dignitaries but ultimately followed the instructions given to them. Naqvi also thanked Islamabad residents for participating in the August 14 celebrations and helping make the Independence Day event successful. The episode has since sparked discussion about appropriate conduct, public perception and the standards expected from senior government officials, with the prime minister’s advisory stressing the importance of maintaining humility and public trust.

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    Suspect arrested for killing 10-year-old boy durin…

      FAISALABAD: Police in Faisalabad have arrested a suspect accused of killing a 10-year-old boy after allegedly attempting to sexually assault him and attacking him when the child resisted. According to police, the suspect was identified as Saqib, who reportedly lived in the same neighbourhood as the victim. He was taken into custody during questioning of several suspects as part of the investigation into the child’s murder. Police said the suspect eventually confessed during interrogation to killing the boy by cutting his throat with a sharp-edged weapon. Further legal proceedings against the accused are currently underway. According to a police spokesperson, the victim, identified as 10-year-old Bilal, was a resident of Rehmanpura in Faisalabad. The child had reportedly left his home five days earlier to buy ice when the suspect allegedly approached him and took him to an isolated location on the pretext of going somewhere with him. Police said the suspect then allegedly attempted to sexually assault the child. When Bilal resisted, the suspect attacked him with a sharp-edged weapon, cutting his throat and killing him before fleeing the scene. The child’s body was later recovered, prompting his father to approach the police and lodge a case against unidentified individuals. Police subsequently launched an investigation and began searching for those involved in the killing. As part of the investigation, police questioned several individuals who were considered suspects or persons of interest. During questioning, investigators reportedly found Saqib’s statements suspicious and took him into custody for further interrogation. Police said that during the subsequent investigation, the suspect confessed to killing Bilal. Investigators are now carrying out further legal proceedings against him. The incident has caused concern in the area, with the killing of the child prompting demands for swift action against those responsible. Police officials said the investigation would continue and that further evidence would be collected as part of the case. Authorities are expected to present the accused before the relevant court as the legal process moves forward. Police said action would be taken in accordance with the law following the completion of the investigation. The case has also highlighted concerns surrounding the safety of children in local communities, particularly when they leave their homes alone. Law enforcement officials have urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and ensure that children are not exposed to potentially unsafe situations. Police officials said they were examining all aspects of the case and would determine the circumstances surrounding the crime through evidence collected during the investigation. Further developments are expected as the legal proceedings continue. The accused remains in police custody as authorities proceed with the investigation into the alleged sexual assault attempt and subsequent killing of the 10-year-old boy. The police have not yet disclosed further details regarding the evidence recovered from the scene or whether additional suspects are being investigated. The incident remains under investigation, and the final determination of the accused’s guilt will be made by the court based on the evidence presented during the legal proceedings.

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    FIA arrests five in Lower Dir illegal currency cra…

    The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Peshawar Zone has arrested five suspects during raids against alleged illegal foreign currency exchange and Hawala/Hundi operations in Timargara Bazaar, Lower Dir. According to FIA officials, the suspects were allegedly operating unauthorized currency exchange and money transfer businesses without the required licences. Separate cases have been registered against the arrested individuals under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA). During the raids, investigators recovered Pakistani and foreign currency worth millions of rupees. The seized cash included Rs49.336 million in Pakistani currency, 158 million Iranian rials, 20,521 Saudi riyals, 3,000 UAE dirhams and 700 Polish zloty. The FIA said the suspects were allegedly involved in unauthorized foreign exchange dealings and illegal transfer of funds through Hawala/Hundi networks. Such activities violate Pakistan’s laws governing foreign exchange and financial transactions. The latest action forms part of the FIA Peshawar Zone’s ongoing crackdown on unauthorized currency dealers and illegal money-transfer networks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Officials said such operations are aimed at curbing activities linked to money laundering, currency smuggling and other financial crimes. The agency has launched further investigations to determine the source and intended destination of the recovered funds. Investigators are also working to identify other people who may be connected with the alleged illegal operations.

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    Bhansali to begin Madhubala biopic work in September

    Sanjay Leela Bhansali is expected to begin work on the much-anticipated Madhubala biopic in September after completing his ongoing film Love & War. The upcoming project will focus on the life and legacy of legendary Hindi cinema actress Madhubala, with Sara Arjun set to play the iconic role. Bhansali is currently wrapping up the final schedule of Love & War, which features Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in key roles. The film’s last song is reportedly scheduled to be filmed at Royal Palms in Goregaon by the end of August. Once the Love & War shoot is completed, the same location is expected to be transformed for the Madhubala biopic. The production design team will reportedly begin working on the sets immediately after Bhansali finishes his current project. The location is expected to be redesigned to recreate the period associated with Madhubala’s life and career. The biopic is expected to go on floors in September, marking the beginning of a new phase for the highly discussed project. Jasmeet K Reen, who previously directed Darlings, will helm the film. Bhansali is attached to the project as a producer, a development that helped the film move forward after facing delays. The Madhubala biopic had reportedly been put on hold earlier because of financial difficulties. However, the project eventually gained momentum after Bhansali joined the production team. His involvement has further increased expectations surrounding the film, particularly given his reputation for creating visually elaborate period stories. Sara Arjun has reportedly started preparing for the challenging role. The actress and the team are said to be working on Madhubala’s personality, mannerisms and expressions to ensure that her portrayal captures the essence of the legendary performer. The production will also focus on recreating the atmosphere and visual style of the era in which Madhubala rose to fame. Sara recently received increased attention for her role in the Dhurandhar franchise, where she portrayed Yalina Jamali, the love interest of Ranveer Singh’s character. Taking on Madhubala will represent a major opportunity for the young actress, as she steps into the role of one of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable stars. Madhubala remains an enduring figure in Indian cinema, remembered for her beauty, charm, screen presence and memorable performances. Her life and career have continued to attract public interest long after her passing, making her story a natural subject for a major biographical film. As Love & War nears completion, Bhansali is expected to shift his focus towards the Madhubala project. The film will seek to explore the actress’s journey, career and lasting legacy while bringing the golden era of Hindi cinema back to life through its production design and storytelling.

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    Saif Ali Khan opens up about Haiwaan role

    Saif Ali Khan is looking forward to the release of his upcoming film Haiwaan, which brings him together with filmmaker Priyadarshan and actor Akshay Kumar. The film has generated interest not only because of its star-studded cast but also because of the unusual character Saif plays. In Haiwaan, Saif portrays a visually impaired musician and martial arts coach. The actor has described the role as one of the most interesting characters he has taken on in recent years, particularly because of the character’s layered past and the contrasting influences of his parents. Saif revealed that he discovered an unexpected personal connection between Priyadarshan and his late father, legendary cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, popularly known as Tiger Pataudi. Both Priyadarshan and Pataudi experienced the loss of an eye but continued to achieve success in their respective careers. For Saif, this similarity made his association with the director even more meaningful. The actor also spoke warmly about Priyadarshan’s personality and working methods. According to Saif, the director’s calm, disciplined and focused approach reminded him of his father. He admired the filmmaker for maintaining a fast pace on set and not giving actors too much time to overanalyse their scenes. Saif suggested that Priyadarshan’s efficient style can help performers remain natural because they have less opportunity to become overly conscious of their acting. Rather than spending too much time thinking about every detail, actors are encouraged to trust their instincts and deliver their performances. Haiwaan also marks the seventh collaboration between Saif and Akshay Kumar. The two actors share a long professional history, having first worked together in the 1994 romantic drama Yeh Dillagi. Looking back at their early days, Saif recalled how that film played an important role in bringing the two actors closer and developing their friendship. This time, however, their roles are expected to create a very different dynamic. Saif believes Akshay’s decision to take on the role of the villain has added another layer of excitement to the project. The actor feels that seeing Akshay in a negative role will make the film more intriguing for audiences. Saif also offered some insight into his character’s background. His character is shaped by two very different parental influences. While his mother encouraged him to pursue music, his father wanted him to develop skills in martial arts. These influences eventually become an important part of the character’s identity and journey. The actor has spoken highly of the film and described it as his best work in a long time. His comments suggest that he is particularly confident about the project and eager to see how audiences respond to it. Saif recently celebrated his 55th birthday on August 16. During his conversations, he also opened up about his family life and noted that his four children have distinctly different personalities. Despite sharing the same family, he said each of them has developed a unique character and identity. With its combination of action, music, drama and an unusual storyline, Haiwaan is shaping up to be an important project for Saif. His collaboration with Priyadarshan and Akshay has further raised expectations surrounding the film.

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    Priyanka Chopra reveals Nick Jonas’s cultural respect importance

    Priyanka Chopra Jonas has spoken candidly about her marriage to Nick Jonas, explaining why his respect for her Indian heritage and traditions has been an important part of their relationship. The actress highlighted the significance of understanding and appreciating a partner’s cultural background, particularly when two people come from different countries and traditions. Priyanka and Nick first attracted widespread attention as a couple after appearing together at the 2017 Met Gala. Although their appearance sparked dating rumours, their relationship quickly developed into something more serious. Nick proposed to Priyanka in July 2018, just two months after they began dating. The couple tied the knot later that year in India, celebrating their marriage through ceremonies that reflected both their backgrounds. Their wedding brought together Indian and Western traditions and became one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings of the year. Reflecting on their relationship, Priyanka said that respect for a partner’s roots is essential in a multicultural marriage. She explained that she could not imagine loving someone who did not understand or appreciate an important part of her identity. “I don’t know if I’d love him if he didn’t. That is a big part of any story or any relationship that is multicultural. I think it’s really important to have a sense of respect for your partner’s roots,” she said. For Priyanka, cultural understanding is not simply about participating in traditions but also about showing genuine respect for the person behind them. Over the years, Nick has frequently accompanied her on visits to India and has taken part in several Indian celebrations and customs, demonstrating his willingness to embrace her cultural background. The actress has previously spoken about some of the thoughtful ways Nick has connected with her traditions. One such romantic story is expected to feature during her upcoming appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show. Priyanka is reportedly set to recall how Nick once took her above the clouds in his plane so she could see the moon and break her Karva Chauth fast. Beyond cultural compatibility, Priyanka also believes that simple kindness plays a major role in maintaining a healthy and lasting relationship. Sharing her thoughts on what keeps a partnership strong, she emphasised the importance of treating one’s partner with care and consideration. “Being kind to your partner. That’s something that’s really important,” she said. Priyanka and Nick have continued to balance their professional commitments with family life. The couple welcomed their daughter, Malti Marie, in 2022 and have often shared glimpses of their family life with fans. On the professional front, Priyanka has several major projects lined up. She will next appear in SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, where she stars alongside Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. She is also expected to return for Citadel Season 2 and has the upcoming science-fiction action thriller Bluefly in her lineup. As Priyanka continues to build her international career, her comments about marriage underline the importance she places on mutual respect, cultural understanding and kindness in her relationship with Nick.

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    Mark Ruffalo rejects Paramount antisemitism accusation

    Mark Ruffalo has strongly rejected allegations of antisemitism made by Paramount after the actor criticised the company’s proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The actor said his comments were directed at the business and political activities connected to the deal, rather than Jewish people or the Jewish community. He argued that criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, military technology contracts, or executives involved in such agreements should not be equated with antisemitism. “The accusation that I am antisemitic is appalling and fundamentally dishonest,” Ruffalo said in a statement shared on X. He maintained that his remarks were based on his political beliefs and concerns about the proposed merger. Ruffalo also stressed that he has “deep love and respect” for Jewish people, pointing to the important role Jewish friends, colleagues and loved ones have played in his life. His response came after he criticised the proposed Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery deal and raised questions about Oracle’s involvement in supplying technology used by the Israeli military. Paramount had previously criticised Ruffalo’s remarks, saying it was concerned that antisemitic tropes were being used in connection with a business dispute. A company spokesperson said Paramount did not tolerate prejudice against anyone but argued that Ruffalo’s comments warranted criticism. The dispute is part of a wider debate surrounding Paramount’s proposed $111 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. Ruffalo has argued that the transaction could have major consequences for the entertainment industry, particularly in areas such as editorial independence, employment and corporate influence. The actor has also questioned Oracle’s business interests in data, surveillance technology and government contracts. He raised concerns about the possible influence of foreign money and powerful technology companies on media organisations and editorial decisions. Ruffalo has called for greater scrutiny of the proposed transaction, arguing that regulators should provide clearer answers about potential national security concerns before the merger is allowed to proceed. “Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have called for serious national security review,” Ruffalo said, arguing that the deal should not move forward until those concerns are properly addressed. His opposition to the merger is not new. In April, Ruffalo joined attorney Norm Eisen in urging state officials to challenge the takeover through antitrust measures. An open letter opposing the transaction has also attracted more than 5,000 signatures, with support from several entertainment industry and advocacy organisations. The proposed deal gained momentum after Paramount Skydance made a $31-per-share offer for Warner Bros. Discovery following Netflix’s withdrawal from its own proposed agreement with the company. As discussions over the merger continue, Ruffalo’s comments have added another layer to the controversy, bringing questions about corporate ownership, political influence, technology contracts and editorial freedom into the wider debate over the future of the entertainment industry.

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    Natasha Hussain reveals Humayun Saeed is still her celebrity crush

    Former Pakistani model and actress Natasha Hussain has revealed that actor and producer Humayun Saeed continues to hold a special place on her celebrity-crush list. The actress made the admission during a recent appearance on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast Excuse Me, where she spoke openly about her admiration for the popular Pakistani star. During the conversation, Natasha was asked about her celebrity crush and did not hesitate to name Humayun Saeed. She described herself as a huge fan of the actor and admitted that her admiration for him has remained unchanged over the years. Natasha recalled an occasion when she had the opportunity to meet Humayun in person while he was visiting a friend’s home during a shoot. The encounter left a strong impression on her, particularly because of the way the actor interacted with everyone present. According to Natasha, she and her friends were excited to see Humayun but initially felt hesitant about approaching him. They were unsure how he might respond to requests for photographs and wondered whether his status as a major celebrity would make him less approachable. She explained that the group had expected he might have a somewhat reserved or distant personality and could possibly refuse to take selfies with them. However, their concerns quickly disappeared once they interacted with him. Natasha said she eventually decided to approach Humayun herself and ask for a selfie. Her decision was influenced not only by her admiration for him but also by how handsome she thought he looked at the time. To her delight, Humayun agreed to the selfie without hesitation. Natasha described his response as generous and said the actor warmly welcomed her when she approached him. The actress also recalled how her friends were eager to take pictures with the star. Rather than behaving like someone uncomfortable with fans, Humayun reportedly remained friendly and approachable throughout their interaction. For Natasha, the meeting proved different from what she and her friends had initially expected. Instead of displaying a distant attitude, Humayun made the gathering comfortable and happily posed for photographs. Her comments offered a glimpse into the actress’s long-standing admiration for the Mere Paas Tum Ho star. While celebrity crushes are often discussed casually, Natasha’s story showed that meeting a favourite celebrity in person can make the experience even more memorable. Humayun Saeed has remained one of Pakistan’s most recognisable entertainment personalities, with a career spanning acting and film production. His popularity has continued to grow through television dramas and major film projects, making him a familiar name among audiences in Pakistan and beyond. Natasha’s candid confession has added a light-hearted moment to her podcast appearance, particularly because she openly admitted that Humayun remains her celebrity crush despite having met him personally. Her experience also highlighted a quality she clearly appreciates in him: his friendly and respectful behaviour toward fans. Rather than allowing his celebrity status to create distance, Humayun’s willingness to interact warmly and take pictures left Natasha with an even more positive impression of the actor she has admired for years.

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    Pakistan’s new diplomatic momentum: Ishaq Dar’…

    Pakistan’s diplomatic profile has undergone a significant transformation over the past year. Once viewed primarily through the prism of regional security, the country is now increasingly being recognised as a constructive diplomatic actor capable of facilitating dialogue and contributing to regional stability. Against this backdrop, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar’s official visit to the United Kingdom, beginning on Monday, carries considerable strategic and political importance. The visit comes at a time when Pakistan’s international standing has strengthened through an active and confident foreign policy. Islamabad’s recent role in facilitating dialogue and reducing tensions in the Middle East has earned international recognition, while its efforts to promote regional peace have been acknowledged by major global powers. Pakistan’s leadership in supporting diplomacy between the United States and Iran, together with its broader commitment to regional stability, has enhanced its credibility as a reliable international partner. This growing diplomatic influence has also been reflected in the historic Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. The agreement has reinforced Pakistan’s position as an important contributor to collective security, strategic cooperation and peace in the wider Middle East, demonstrating its ability to work closely with key regional partners on issues of shared security. Senator Ishaq Dar’s visit to the United Kingdom is aimed at building upon this diplomatic momentum by further strengthening Pakistan’s relationship with one of its most important international partners. It will be Pakistan’s first high-level engagement with the United Kingdom since Prime Minister Andy Burnham assumed office on 20 July 2026, making the visit particularly significant in establishing an early and comprehensive dialogue with the new British leadership. A central feature of the visit will be Mr Dar’s meeting with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband. The discussions are expected to cover the full spectrum of Pakistan–United Kingdom relations, including political cooperation, trade and investment, institutional collaboration, education, cultural exchanges and people-to-people links. Particular emphasis is likely to be placed on the invaluable contribution of the British Pakistani community, which continues to serve as a bridge between the two countries. Regional and international developments, particularly the evolving situation in the Middle East, are also expected to feature prominently on the agenda. The Deputy Prime Minister is also scheduled to meet the United Kingdom’s National Security Adviser, Jonathan Powell. These talks are expected to focus on regional and global security challenges, with discussions covering counter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence sharing and broader strategic coordination. Such engagement reflects the growing importance both countries attach to security cooperation in an increasingly complex international environment. Another significant engagement will be Mr Dar’s meeting with International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez. The meeting will reaffirm Pakistan’s longstanding cooperation with the IMO and underline Islamabad’s commitment to promoting safe, secure and efficient international shipping. As a maritime nation with expanding regional connectivity ambitions, Pakistan’s engagement with the IMO remains an important component of its international diplomacy. Beyond the scheduled meetings, the visit represents a broader strategic opportunity. It offers both Islamabad and London the chance to redefine and modernise a long-standing partnership that extends beyond traditional diplomacy to encompass trade, investment, technology, education, climate cooperation and regional security. With changing geopolitical dynamics and emerging economic opportunities, both countries have strong incentives to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. For Pakistan, the visit is also a demonstration of a more proactive and confident foreign policy that seeks engagement rather than isolation. It reflects Islamabad’s determination to cultivate stronger ties with major global powers while simultaneously playing a constructive role in addressing regional and international challenges. If successful, Senator Ishaq Dar’s visit is expected not only to strengthen Pakistan–United Kingdom relations under the new United Kingdom leadership but also to pave the way for further high-level exchanges in the months ahead. More importantly, it will reinforce Pakistan’s growing image as a responsible diplomatic partner whose influence extends beyond South Asia and whose voice is increasingly valued in discussions on international peace, security and strategic cooperation.

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    Iran threatens action over US economic support

    Iran’s National Security Council chief Mohsen Rezaei has warned that the interests of countries assisting the United States in its economic war against Iran could be targeted. In an interview, Major General Mohsen Rezaei urged Iran’s neighbouring countries not to cooperate with Washington against Tehran. He warned that Iran could consider them hostile if they joined the US economic campaign. Rezaei said Iran did not want to escalate the conflict. However, he warned that any neighbouring country supporting the economic war could face attacks on its interests. He also threatened to prevent even a single drop of oil from passing through the Persian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz. He said other routes used to import oil through the Persian Gulf could also be targeted. Rezaei further warned that locations linked to Iranian opposition groups could also come under attack if the United States continued meeting groups opposed to the Iranian government. According to Rezaei, the US had expected to end the conflict within a few days and take control of Iran’s oil and gas resources. He claimed that around 1,200 oil tankers had become unusable during the conflict, affecting 15 per cent of the global fleet. He said Tehran should reconsider its approach to the conflict and its diplomatic engagement with the international community. Rezaei accused Washington of failing to honour its commitments. Rezaei said Iran was no longer the same country it was before the conflict. He described new military appointments by Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei as a sign that Iran was preparing for war. He added that the perception of the United States among Iranian youth had also changed. According to him, many young Iranians no longer view America as a country committed to peace. Rezaei accused Washington of betraying negotiations, diplomacy and agreements it had signed. He also warned that US policies could encourage more countries to seek nuclear weapons. He criticised US President Donald Trump and claimed that the world had begun viewing Iran differently. Rezaei said Iran would change its approach to warfare and use the lessons learned from the current conflict in any future war. Asked about the Makkah agreement involving Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, Rezaei said it indicated that the United States had informed those countries of its intention to leave the region. On former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, Rezaei said those who believed his return would turn Iran into a “paradise” should reconsider their view. He claimed that bringing Pahlavi back to power could instead lead to Iran being divided into five parts.