تازہ ترین

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    Meghan Markle’s ring-free appearance sparks ‘deliberate message’ claim

    Meghan Markle has reportedly sent a subtle but pointed message to husband Prince Harry through a calculated public appearance. Royal insiders claim the gesture was far from accidental. Sources told Closer that Meghan wanted to remind Harry she remains the same independent, self-assured woman he originally fell for. The message, they suggest, came through a solo public outing. Meghan recently made a solo appearance at a screening for “Cookie Queens,” a documentary about the Girl Scouts on which she serves as executive producer. Eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed one key detail from the event. She was not wearing her engagement ring during the appearance. According to insiders, that absence was not accidental at all. A close source explained that Meghan is far too media-savvy to step out without her ring by mistake. They suggested the move was designed to send a clear signal, both publicly and to Harry directly. The insider described it as a reminder that Meghan remains the driven, independent woman Harry originally fell in love with. They added that anyone choosing to take her for granted would do so at their own risk. This latest development adds to ongoing speculation about how separately Harry and Meghan have been living their day-to-day lives. Sources claim the couple’s schedules have grown increasingly divided in recent months. According to the source, Meghan has been taking frequent meetings in Los Angeles while handling much of the negotiation work tied to their Netflix deal. Harry, meanwhile, is said to be focused on his charitable work and repairing his relationship with his father. The insider suggested Meghan has taken on a larger share of responsibility for bringing in income for the family. Despite their busy, separate schedules, the source said the couple still comes together for meals and family time. Even so, the source acknowledged that their days often pass quickly, with each of them pulled in different directions. The latest appearance has only added fuel to ongoing speculation about the dynamics within their marriage.

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    Harry sees Invictus Games as chance to reconnect with King Charles

    Prince Harry reportedly views next year’s Invictus Games in Birmingham as a genuine opportunity to repair his strained relationship with King Charles. The event is said to hold deep personal significance for him. According to RadarOnline, organisers of the Invictus Games are planning to invite the monarch to attend next year’s edition. Insiders claim the Duke of Sussex sees the homecoming event as a meaningful chance to grow closer to his father. A source told the outlet that Harry views the Birmingham Games as one of the most significant moments he’s experienced in years. According to the insider, bringing Invictus back to Britain carries deep personal weight for him. The source explained that Harry is determined to make the event a landmark occasion, one that celebrates both the organisation’s achievements and the servicemen and women it was created to support. That ambition, they said, remains central to his motivation. Beyond the event itself, insiders suggest there’s an added layer of significance given where things currently stand between Harry and his father. According to the source, Harry believes Invictus offers a rare setting where Charles could attend without the visit becoming solely about their relationship. The insider explained that the competitors would remain the true focus of the occasion throughout. At the same time, father and son could appear together in support of a cause they both understand and care about. That dynamic, sources suggest, could offer a low-pressure opportunity for the two to reconnect. Rather than a formal reconciliation attempt, the setting would allow any interaction between them to unfold naturally within a broader, shared purpose. For Harry, insiders say, the Games represent more than just an athletic event. They are being viewed as a potential turning point in a relationship that has remained visibly strained in recent years. Whether King Charles ultimately accepts the invitation remains to be seen. If he does, though, the Birmingham Games could become one of the more closely watched royal moments of the coming year.

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    Apple offers 15% App Store fee, pushes for Epic settlement talks

    Apple is making two significant moves at once in its long-running legal battle with Epic Games. The tech giant has proposed a new commission structure while also pushing for both sides to return to the negotiating table. In a new court filing, Apple proposed capping commissions at 15% on purchases made through alternative payment systems in the US. The move follows a period during which Apple charged a 27% commission on those same transactions. That earlier rate had already landed Apple in trouble. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled it violated a prior court order requiring Apple to let developers direct users toward outside payment options. Epic Games wasted no time responding to the new proposal. The company argued the revised fees still fall far outside what the Ninth Circuit has indicated would be acceptable. The timing of Apple’s filing is notable too. It landed the same day the Supreme Court rejected Apple’s request to pause lower-court proceedings while it separately reviews Gonzalez Rogers’ contempt finding against the company. That rejection means the fee-setting process will continue moving forward in the district court. This holds true regardless of how the higher court eventually rules on the separate contempt issue. Alongside the commission proposal, Apple filed a separate motion asking the court to order both companies into a settlement conference. The session would be overseen by Magistrate Judge Joseph C. Spero. According to the filing, Apple had already proposed this meeting directly to Epic’s legal team on August 11. Epic, however, declined to agree to the arrangement at that time. Despite Epic’s refusal, Apple maintains the court still has the authority to compel the conference. The company points to the fact that the Ninth Circuit itself had previously invited both parties to work toward an agreement on link-out commissions. Apple believes a confidential meeting could help resolve the dispute without further extending the ongoing remand proceedings. Notably, the filing does not include any actual settlement terms, it simply requests a court order mandating the conference take place. With both sides digging in on separate fronts, the long-running dispute between Apple and Epic shows no signs of reaching a resolution anytime soon.

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    Interior minister Mohsin Naqvi visits PTI chairman…

      Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the residence of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and expressed his condolences over the death of Gohar’s mother. During the meeting, Mohsin Naqvi conveyed his deep sorrow and grief to the PTI chairman over the loss of his mother. He also offered Fateha for the deceased and prayed for her forgiveness and eternal peace. The interior minister expressed sympathy with Barrister Gohar and his family during their time of mourning. He offered his condolences and prayed that Allah Almighty grant the deceased a high place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and give patience and strength to the bereaved family. Barrister Gohar thanked Mohsin Naqvi for visiting his residence and personally expressing his condolences. The PTI chairman appreciated the interior minister’s gesture and his presence with the family during the difficult period. The meeting was held in a respectful and solemn atmosphere, with both sides focusing on the bereavement and offering prayers for the departed soul. Barrister Gohar’s mother passed away on August 8. Her funeral prayers were offered and she was laid to rest in her native area, where family members and relatives gathered to pay their final respects. The visit by the interior minister came as political figures and members of the PTI continued to express their condolences to Barrister Gohar and his family following the death. Such visits are traditionally considered an important gesture of solidarity during times of personal loss, regardless of political differences. Mohsin Naqvi’s meeting with Barrister Gohar also highlighted the importance of maintaining personal and social ties despite political disagreements. The interior minister took the opportunity to personally offer his condolences rather than limiting the gesture to a formal message. Barrister Gohar, who serves as chairman of the PTI, has remained an important figure in the party’s political and legal affairs. His mother’s death came during a period of continued political activity involving the party and its leadership. According to the details of the meeting, Mohsin Naqvi offered prayers for the deceased and conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved family. He expressed hope that the family would find strength and patience to cope with the loss. The PTI chairman thanked the federal minister for taking the time to visit his home. He acknowledged the condolence gesture and expressed appreciation for Naqvi’s presence. The meeting remained focused on the personal loss suffered by Barrister Gohar and his family, with no details of any political discussions reported. The death of a close family member is a deeply emotional moment, and condolence visits are widely regarded as an expression of support and solidarity. Naqvi’s visit was similarly aimed at sharing the grief of the PTI chairman and his family. Barrister Gohar’s mother was buried in her ancestral area following her death on August 8. Since then, relatives, friends, political colleagues and other well-wishers have continued to offer condolences to the family. The interior minister’s visit concluded with prayers for the departed soul and expressions of sympathy for the bereaved family. Barrister Gohar thanked him for coming to his residence and sharing his grief at the loss of his mother.

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    British high commissioner meets deputy Prime Minis…

      British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad to discuss matters of mutual interest and ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining high-level and continuous engagement between the two countries. Both sides discussed the positive developments taking place in Pakistan-UK relations and emphasized the need to continue diplomatic contacts to deepen cooperation in areas of shared interest. During the meeting, Jane Marriott conveyed her greetings and extended congratulations to Pakistan on the occasion of its Independence Day. She also discussed issues relating to the ongoing relationship between the two countries and reaffirmed the importance of continued engagement between Islamabad and London. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar appreciated the positive progress in Pakistan-UK relations and described the developments as encouraging. According to an official statement, Dar also referred to his recent meeting with the British Foreign Secretary in Manila, highlighting the importance of high-level contacts between the two countries in strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation. The discussion also covered regional and international developments, according to the spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides exchanged views on the evolving regional situation as well as broader global issues of mutual concern. Ishaq Dar stressed that Pakistan and the United Kingdom should continue working together through dialogue and diplomatic engagement. He emphasized the importance of implementing the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding in accordance with both its spirit and its agreed text. Dar also maintained that negotiations and diplomacy remain the most effective and appropriate way to address outstanding issues. He said that unresolved matters should be dealt with through constructive dialogue rather than confrontation, underlining Pakistan’s preference for diplomatic solutions to complex regional and international challenges. The meeting comes as Pakistan and the United Kingdom continue efforts to strengthen their longstanding bilateral relationship. The two countries maintain cooperation across several areas, including trade, investment, education, security, development and people-to-people relations. Regular high-level meetings between officials from both sides are considered important for maintaining momentum in bilateral ties. The discussions between Dar and Marriott also reflected the broader importance of sustained diplomatic communication at a time when regional and global developments continue to influence international relations. Both Pakistan and the UK have an interest in maintaining regular consultations on issues that affect regional stability, economic cooperation and international peace. The Pakistani foreign ministry said that continued engagement and dialogue would remain important for addressing matters of mutual interest and promoting closer cooperation between Islamabad and London. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on maintaining regular high-level contacts and advancing bilateral cooperation. Both sides expressed support for continued diplomatic engagement and efforts aimed at strengthening Pakistan-UK relations. The interaction between Ishaq Dar and Jane Marriott demonstrates the continued focus of both countries on maintaining constructive diplomatic ties. With discussions covering bilateral relations, implementation of existing understandings, regional developments and international affairs, the meeting provided an opportunity for Pakistan and the UK to reaffirm their commitment to dialogue and cooperation.

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    Bilawal Bhutto Zardari says Pakistan’s independe…

      Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that Pakistan has completed 79 years of independence and that the country will celebrate the centenary of its independence 21 years from now, in 2047. In a video message issued on the occasion of Independence Day, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reflected on the meaning of Pakistan’s independence and emphasized that freedom was not simply about acquiring a separate territory. According to him, the creation of Pakistan represented a broader promise of rights and dignity for its people. Bilawal said that independence should be understood as more than the establishment of a geographical homeland. He described it as a commitment made to the people of Pakistan and to the regions and states that chose to become part of the country at the time of its creation. He said that this commitment was subsequently incorporated into Pakistan’s Constitution and has continued to be reaffirmed over the years. According to Bilawal, the constitutional promise represents an important responsibility for successive generations and should not remain limited to political speeches or written documents. The PPP chairman stressed that the younger generation has an important role to play in fulfilling this promise. He said it is the responsibility of the present generation to ensure that the constitutional guarantees and principles associated with Pakistan’s founding vision reach every household by 2047, when the country will mark 100 years of independence. Bilawal’s remarks came as Pakistan celebrated its 79th Independence Day with nationwide ceremonies, flag-hoisting events and public celebrations. The day is observed every year on August 14 to commemorate Pakistan’s independence from British rule in 1947. In his message, Bilawal focused on the relationship between independence, constitutional rights and the responsibilities of citizens. He suggested that the true meaning of freedom lies not only in national sovereignty but also in ensuring that citizens are able to enjoy their fundamental rights. He further emphasized the importance of remembering the commitments associated with the creation of Pakistan while looking toward the country’s future. As Pakistan approaches its centenary in 2047, he called for collective efforts to translate constitutional principles into meaningful improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens. According to Bilawal, fulfilling the promise of Pakistan is a responsibility shared by every generation. He said the country’s future depends on ensuring that the principles of rights and justice are reflected in the everyday lives of people across the country. The PPP chairman also extended his greetings to the nation on Independence Day and expressed his hopes for Pakistan’s continued progress and prosperity. Concluding his message, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed his commitment to Pakistan and expressed the slogan “Pakistan Khappay, Pakistan Paindabad,” conveying a message of support for the country’s unity, stability and lasting prosperity. His Independence Day message centered on the idea that Pakistan’s journey should be viewed not only through the achievement of independence but also through the fulfillment of the rights and aspirations that accompanied the country’s creation. With 2047 approaching as the centenary year of Pakistan’s independence, Bilawal called on the current generation to work toward realizing the constitutional promise for every citizen and household. His message highlighted the importance of connecting the ideals associated with independence to the everyday realities of the Pakistani people.

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    Pakistan will respond if India threatens water rights: PM Shehbaz

    ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has warned that Pakistan will not compromise on its water rights, describing every drop of the country’s water as a “red line” and cautioning India against any move that threatens Pakistan’s sovereignty, security or access to water. Addressing a ceremony in Islamabad following the inauguration of a monument commemorating Pakistan’s recent military success, the prime minister said India had demonstrated its disregard for regional peace by unilaterally suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. He said Pakistan desired peace and stability in the region but would not interpret its commitment to peace as a sign of weakness. “Pakistan stands for peace with honour and dignity,” the prime minister said, adding that the country had emerged as a factor of stability in the region. Referring to the military confrontation with India in May 2025, Shehbaz Sharif praised the armed forces for their role and said the country’s response had demonstrated Pakistan’s determination to defend its territorial integrity and national interests. The prime minister specifically commended Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his leadership, while also highlighting the contributions of the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy under their respective chiefs. He said the performance of the armed forces during the conflict had become a lasting part of the country’s history and represented a victory not only for the military but for the entire Pakistani nation. “This victory belongs to the people of Pakistan and its armed forces,” he said, describing the achievement as a source of national pride. Shehbaz Sharif maintained that Pakistan did not seek confrontation with any country. However, he stressed that Islamabad would respond firmly if its sovereignty or security were challenged in the future. He said the events of May 2025 had sent a clear message to the international community about Pakistan’s military capabilities and national resolve. According to the prime minister, the conflict had significantly strengthened Pakistan’s standing and demonstrated that any attempt to undermine the country’s sovereignty would carry serious consequences. Turning specifically to the water dispute, Shehbaz Sharif criticised India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling the move unilateral and unlawful. He warned that Pakistan’s water resources could not be treated as a bargaining tool and said Islamabad would defend its water interests. “Every drop of Pakistan’s water is a red line,” the prime minister declared, warning that if India failed to reconsider its position, Pakistan would respond directly. The prime minister’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, with water rights emerging as a particularly sensitive issue alongside longstanding disputes over security and regional stability. Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan preferred dialogue and peace but would remain prepared to protect its national interests. He said the country’s policy was based on maintaining peace without compromising dignity, sovereignty or security. He further said the lessons of the May 2025 confrontation should not be forgotten and warned that any future miscalculation against Pakistan would invite a stronger response.

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    Danish Taimoor sends heartfelt message to Lionel Messi

    Danish Taimoor has expressed heartfelt support for football legend Lionel Messi following the reported passing of his father, Jorge Messi. The Pakistani actor and television star shared an emotional message for the Argentine football icon, offering his condolences and encouraging him to remain strong during this difficult period. Lionel Messi has always been closely associated with his family, particularly his father, who played an important role in the early stages of his football career. Jorge Messi served as his son’s adviser and manager for many years and remained a significant figure throughout Messi’s journey from a young footballer in Argentina to one of the greatest players in football history. Following the sad news, messages of sympathy and support have continued to emerge from fans and public figures around the world. Danish Taimoor also joined those expressing their love and prayers for Messi and his family. In his message, Taimoor encouraged Messi to stay strong while sending him a warm hug. His words reflected the affection many Pakistani fans have for the football superstar, who has built a huge following in the country through his remarkable career, memorable performances and achievements with both club and international football. Messi fans have also been invited to share their own messages for the legendary player during this emotional time. For millions of supporters, Messi is more than just a footballer, and many feel connected to his personal journey as well as his sporting achievements. As fans continue to show their support, messages of compassion can provide comfort during moments of grief. Danish Taimoor’s heartfelt gesture has highlighted the strong connection between Messi and his global fan base, including supporters in Pakistan. Fans can share their thoughts, prayers and messages for Messi and his family as they remember Jorge Messi and stand beside the football star during this difficult period.

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    US replaces warship in Mideast as crew faces mental health crisis

    The US Department of Defence has dispatched the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East, replacing the USS Abraham Lincoln following mounting concerns over living conditions and mental health struggles among sailors aboard the long-deployed vessel. The USS George Washington departed Da Nang, Vietnam, passing through the Strait of Malacca toward the Indian Ocean. The deployment temporarily leaves the Asia-Pacific region without a US aircraft carrier presence, reflecting a strategic shift under the Trump administration, which views China as a manageable regional presence rather than a primary global threat. The deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln has surpassed 260 uninterrupted days at sea, setting a modern record without a port call. Operational demands linked to the conflict with Iran disrupted traditional supply hubs, leading to severe shortages of fresh food, clean water, and hygiene items, alongside broken sanitation facilities and lost mail. Reports have also highlighted safety concerns and multiple incidents of sailors attempting to jump overboard. Congressional leaders have demanded answers regarding the ship’s operational conditions. Senator Richard Blumenthal pressed defense officials on fleet sustainability, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to be removed from his post. Hegseth rejected the criticisms, stating that reports of deteriorating conditions aboard the carrier were completely misrepresented.

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    US, Russian envoys congratulate Pakistan on Indepe…

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day brought messages of goodwill from two major international partners, with the United States and Russia extending warm greetings to the Pakistani people and expressing hopes for continued peace, prosperity and stronger bilateral ties. US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker and the US diplomatic mission in Pakistan conveyed their Independence Day wishes to Pakistanis on Friday, marking the country’s 79th year as an independent nation. In its message, the US Embassy recalled the long history of relations between the two countries, noting that the United States was among the early countries to recognise Pakistan after its creation in 1947. The embassy said that Pakistan-US friendship had grown stronger over the decades, highlighting the enduring ties between the two countries and their peoples. “Over the past 80 years, the friendship between Pakistan and the United States has grown stronger,” the message said, while extending wishes for peace, happiness and prosperity to the people of Pakistan. The greeting comes as Islamabad and Washington continue to maintain engagement across several areas, including trade, investment, security, education and people-to-people ties. Russia highlights Pakistani resilience Russia’s ambassador to Pakistan also extended Independence Day greetings, describing the occasion as a reflection of the courage, determination and strong national spirit of the Pakistani people. In his message, the Russian envoy praised the resilience demonstrated by Pakistanis and expressed confidence that cooperation between Moscow and Islamabad could continue to expand. The ambassador said both countries would work together to strengthen mutual understanding and broaden their partnership in areas of shared interest. The message underscored Moscow’s interest in developing closer relations with Islamabad at a time when Pakistan is seeking to expand its diplomatic and economic partnerships. Messages arrive amid wider diplomatic engagement The messages from Washington and Moscow came as Pakistan marked Independence Day with nationwide celebrations, flag-raising ceremonies and tributes to the country’s founding leaders and those who sacrificed for independence. For Pakistan, such diplomatic messages carry significance beyond traditional greetings. They reflect the country’s longstanding relationships with major global powers and its continuing efforts to maintain engagement with partners across different regions. As Pakistan entered its 80th year since independence, the messages from the United States and Russia shared a common theme: a desire for peace, prosperity and stronger cooperation. While the two countries have different strategic relationships with Islamabad, their Independence Day messages highlighted the importance of continued engagement and mutual understanding. For Pakistanis celebrating the day, the greetings added an international dimension to the occasion, with both Washington and Moscow signalling their desire to see Pakistan move forward with stability, prosperity and deeper partnerships.