تازہ ترین

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    Colombia earthquake, Shehbaz Sharif expresses deep…

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with Colombia after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake devastated parts of the country, killing more than 111 people and leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, with the epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region. The powerful tremor damaged hundreds of buildings and triggered desperate rescue operations as emergency workers searched through collapsed structures for survivors. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound grief over the loss of precious lives and the destruction caused by the disaster. He extended heartfelt condolences to Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, the people of Colombia and families who lost loved ones in the tragedy. “Pakistan stands with the people of Colombia in this difficult hour,” the prime minister said in his message, conveying solidarity with those facing the devastating consequences of the earthquake. Sharif also expressed sympathy for those injured and affected by the disaster, saying Pakistan’s thoughts and prayers were with the victims, survivors and rescue teams working in difficult conditions. The earthquake caused severe damage across several western cities, including Pereira, Cali, Quibdó and Manizales. Hospitals were placed under pressure as injured people were brought in, while rescue workers and volunteers continued clearing rubble in search of those feared trapped. Authorities also reported damage to infrastructure and airports, while aftershocks added to fears among residents. Colombia’s government declared an emergency to speed up rescue and relief operations. The disaster has prompted an international response, with countries offering assistance as Colombia confronts one of its most serious seismic emergencies in years. For Pakistan, the tragedy has once again highlighted the importance of international solidarity during natural disasters. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the Pakistani government and people shared the grief of Colombian families and prayed for strength, patience and an early recovery for everyone affected. As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on saving lives, supporting survivors and helping devastated communities rebuild.

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    Deadly 7.4 quake rocks Colombia, 111 killed

    BOGOTA: A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake has killed at least 111 people and injured 87 others in western Colombia, leaving communities grappling with widespread destruction and fears that more victims remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings. The earthquake struck on Monday, with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region. The powerful tremor was felt across a wide area and caused buildings to collapse in several locations. Emergency crews have been working through piles of concrete, bricks and debris as they search for survivors. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach areas where communication and access remain difficult. The disaster has caused severe damage in cities including Pereira, Cali and Manizales, while infrastructure and public services have also been affected. Rescue workers have been using heavy machinery alongside manual searches to reach people believed to be trapped under the rubble. Colombian authorities have mobilised emergency resources and launched a large-scale response operation. The government has also declared a national disaster as officials assess the full extent of the destruction. The earthquake has left families anxiously waiting for news of relatives who remain missing, while hospitals and emergency services continue treating the injured. As rescue operations continue, authorities are urging residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks and avoid entering damaged structures. With 111 lives already lost, the focus remains firmly on finding survivors and bringing urgent assistance to communities devastated by the powerful quake.

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    PCB unveils commentary panel for Champions Cup 2026

    MULTAN: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a star-studded commentary panel for the National Champions Cup 2026, adding further excitement to a tournament that could prove important in shaping Pakistan’s future international squad. The seven-match competition will be played at Multan Cricket Stadium from August 11 to 18, with four teams — Pakistan Greens, Pakistan Whites, Pakistan Blues and Pakistan Gold — competing in a single round-robin format. Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt will headline the commentary team alongside Ali Younis, Tariq Saeed, Aimen Anwar and Raja Asad. Their experience and analysis are expected to provide viewers with deeper insight into the performances of established players and emerging prospects. Under the tournament format, each team will face the other three sides once. The two teams collecting the most points at the end of the league stage will advance to the final. The Champions Cup carries added significance as the PCB looks ahead to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. Selectors will use the competition to closely monitor players competing for national recognition, while younger cricketers will have an opportunity to make a strong impression. The PCB has selected 44 players across the four squads, with another 13 players included in a reserve pool. Reserve players can replace members of the main squads only in cases involving injury or concussion. With established internationals sharing the field with promising domestic talent, the tournament is expected to offer a revealing look at Pakistan’s emerging cricketing depth. For selectors, every match could become an audition. For players, the Champions Cup may represent a crucial step towards earning a place in Pakistan’s plans for the 2027 World Cup, to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Squads Pakistan Greens Playing XI: Shadab Khan (c), Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Farhan Yousuf, Mehran Mumtaz, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Omair Bin Yousuf, Saad Baig (wk) and Sameer Minhas. Pakistan Whites Playing XI: Saim Ayub (c), Akif Javed, Ali Raza, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Mohsin Riaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Saad Masood, Shahzaib Khan and Usman Khan (wk). Pakistan Blues Playing XI: Sahibzada Farhan (c), Abdullah Shafique, Ahmed Daniyal, Arafat Minhas, Hasan Ali, Hussain Talat, Jahandad Khan, Rohail Nazir (wk), Shamyl Hussain, Sufyan Moqim, Taimur Khan (wk). Pakistan Gold Playing XI: Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Abdul Samad, Abdul Subhan, Faisal Akram, Haider Ali, Kamran Ghulam, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Nawaz, Muhammad Akhlaq (wk), Muhammad Imran and Saad Khan.

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    Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola expecting their first child together

    Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola are entering an exciting new chapter as they prepare to welcome their first child together. The couple, who have been married for two years, recently sparked pregnancy reports after Osceola was spotted showing off what appeared to be a growing baby bump during a beach outing in the Hamptons. The 38-year-old actress enjoyed a relaxing day by the water with her 55-year-old husband, who appeared equally happy to spend quality time with her. Osceola was photographed wearing a dark green bikini that highlighted her growing belly. She appeared to be enjoying the summer weather as she took a dip in the ocean before spending more time with Hamm on the beach. The actor was seen wearing shorts as he stayed close to his wife and appeared to help care for her during their outing. If confirmed, the pregnancy would mark a major milestone for the couple, particularly because Hamm has previously spoken openly about not being certain that he wanted to become a father. In a 2008 interview, when Hamm was 35 and in a relationship with actress Jennifer Westfeldt, the actor admitted that having children was not necessarily part of the future he had imagined for himself. He explained that although many of his friends were starting families, he was unsure whether parenthood was something he wanted. Hamm also reflected on how a person’s family background could influence their views on having children. At the time, he said he had not firmly decided either way and was still uncertain about whether parenthood would be the right path for him. His perspective appeared to change significantly after meeting Osceola. Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola’s relationship Hamm and Osceola first crossed paths in 2015 while working together on the final season of the popular television series Mad Men. Although they met several years earlier, their relationship did not become romantic immediately. The pair were first linked romantically in 2017 before their relationship became more serious and they were publicly confirmed as a couple in 2020. In 2022, Hamm and Osceola made their red-carpet debut together at an Oscars viewing event. Around the same period, Hamm opened up about how his relationship with Osceola had changed his outlook on marriage and family. The actor previously revealed that being with Osceola helped him discover a different kind of happiness and made him reconsider some of his earlier thoughts about marriage and having children. Hamm and Osceola announced their engagement in February 2023. Just a few months later, they exchanged vows in June at Anderson Canyon in Big Sur, California. The location held special meaning for the couple because it was also where they had first met while filming Mad Men. Now, with reports of their first baby on the way, the couple appear to be preparing for one of the biggest changes in their relationship yet. Their journey from co-stars to partners and eventually husband and wife has already marked several important milestones, and parenthood could soon become their newest chapter.

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    Demi Lovato returns as Mitchie Torres in Camp Rock 3

    Demi Lovato is officially returning to one of her most beloved Disney roles, bringing back Mitchie Torres for the highly anticipated Camp Rock 3. The singer and actress will reprise the character nearly two decades after the original Camp Rock introduced her to audiences around the world. The news has generated excitement among longtime Disney fans, many of whom had been hoping to see Lovato return for the third instalment of the popular musical franchise. Lovato’s comeback also marks a major reunion with the Jonas Brothers, who will once again portray their iconic characters from the franchise. Joe Jonas is returning as Shane Gray, while Nick Jonas will reprise his role as Nate Gray and Kevin Jonas will once again play Jason Gray. Maria Canals-Barrera is also set to return as Connie, Mitchie’s mother and the director of Camp Rock. The upcoming film will see Lovato take on another important role behind the scenes as well. In addition to appearing on screen, she is serving as an executive producer alongside the Jonas Brothers, making her involvement in the project even more significant. The original Camp Rock premiered in 2008 and quickly became one of Disney Channel’s most popular original movies. Lovato’s performance as aspiring singer Mitchie Torres helped establish her as a major Disney star, while the film’s music and performances became a memorable part of the channel’s pop culture history. Following the announcement of her return, Lovato shared her excitement with fans on social media. She posted about Mitchie’s comeback and used the hashtag “#thisisme,” referencing one of the franchise’s most recognisable songs. Camp Rock 3 will also introduce a new generation of characters and performers. The story focuses on Connect 3 as the band prepares for a reunion tour. However, their plans are disrupted when their scheduled opening act drops out. Faced with the unexpected situation, the group heads back to Camp Rock in search of new talent who could potentially join them on their tour. The new cast includes Liamani Segura and Malachi Barton in leading roles, along with Lumi Pollack, Sherry Cola and Hudson Stone. Their addition is expected to bring a fresh energy to the franchise while allowing the returning stars to reconnect with the world that made them famous. For fans, the return of Lovato and the Jonas Brothers represents a major throwback to the early days of Disney Channel’s musical era. With the original stars returning alongside a younger cast, the film aims to combine nostalgia with a new storyline for today’s audience. Camp Rock 3 is scheduled to premiere on Disney Channel on August 13. Fans will then be able to watch the movie on Disney+ from August 14, giving viewers multiple ways to experience the long-awaited reunion.

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    Madhuri Dixit returns to TV as Marathi KBC host

    Madhuri Dixit is all set to make her much-awaited return to television, this time stepping into the role of a host after nearly 24 years. The Bollywood icon will be taking charge of Kon Honar Crorepati, the Marathi adaptation of the popular quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati. The announcement marks an exciting new chapter for the 59-year-old actress, who has already built a strong connection with television audiences through her previous appearances as a judge and host. Madhuri expressed her excitement about joining the show, describing the opportunity as an honour and highlighting the programme’s ability to inspire people through knowledge, determination and ambition. According to Madhuri, Kon Honar Crorepati is not simply a quiz-based programme. She believes the show celebrates curiosity, aspirations, hope and the courage people show while chasing their dreams. As someone who proudly identifies with Maharashtra, she is especially excited about interacting with contestants, listening to their personal journeys and watching their dreams unfold on the iconic hot seat. The upcoming season will carry the tagline “Aata Khel Badalnar,” signalling that the game is about to take a new turn. With Madhuri at the centre of the show, viewers can expect a fresh hosting style and a different energy from previous seasons. Although many fans primarily know Madhuri for her celebrated film career, she is no stranger to television. She first stepped into hosting in 2002 with the matchmaking show Kahin Na Kahin Koi Hai. Her appearance came years before matrimonial reality programmes became a major part of Indian television. Madhuri later became a familiar face on reality television through her judging roles. She served as a judge on popular dance-based programmes including Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and Dance Deewane, where her knowledge of dance and warm personality made her a favourite among viewers. The Kaun Banega Crorepati format, meanwhile, has traditionally been strongly associated with Amitabh Bachchan. The veteran actor has hosted almost every season of the original Hindi version since its launch in 2000. The major exception came during the third season, when Shah Rukh Khan took over as host. The Marathi version has also seen several prominent personalities in the host’s chair. Actors such as Sachin Khedekar and Swapnil Joshi, along with filmmaker Nagraj Manjule, have previously led different seasons of Kon Honar Crorepati. Madhuri’s appointment also makes history within the Indian Crorepati franchise. She becomes only the second woman to host a version of the format in India. Actress Radhikaa Sarathkumar previously hosted the Tamil edition. With one of Bollywood’s most recognisable stars now leading the Marathi edition, expectations are high for the upcoming season. Kon Honar Crorepati is scheduled to premiere soon on SonyLIV.

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    Shakira sends heartfelt message after Colombia earthquake

    Shakira has expressed her support for Colombia after a powerful earthquake struck the country, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming numerous lives. The Colombian singer used social media to send a heartfelt message to those affected by the disaster while urging people to come together and support one another during the difficult time. The magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia at around 7:34 a.m. on Monday, August 10. The devastating tremor caused widespread damage across several areas, with the reported death toll reaching 132. Hundreds of people were also injured as buildings and infrastructure were damaged by the powerful quake. Following the disaster, Shakira took to her Instagram Stories to address the situation and share a message of solidarity with her fellow Colombians. The singer, who has frequently spoken about her deep connection to her home country, offered her thoughts to the victims and families struggling in the aftermath of the earthquake. “Beloved Colombia, my heart is with everyone who felt this earthquake today and with the families who are going through moments of anguish,” Shakira wrote in Spanish. She further encouraged Colombians to remain united and help one another as emergency teams worked to respond to the destruction. “In times like these, we Colombians know how to come together and support one another. All my strength and love for my homeland. Let’s embrace tightly and stay tuned to the instructions so we can help as soon as possible,” she added. The earthquake reportedly injured at least 570 people, according to figures released by authorities. The epicentre was located near the village of San José del Palmar in Colombia’s Chocó province, where the impact was particularly severe. The disaster also caused extensive damage to homes and public infrastructure. Around 1,575 homes were reportedly damaged, while 61 buildings collapsed following the powerful tremors. Several essential facilities were also affected, including 18 health centres, 52 educational centres and 17 community centres. As the scale of the destruction became clearer, authorities declared a state of emergency to strengthen rescue and relief operations. Emergency departments were mobilised to assist affected communities, assess damaged areas and provide support to people who had been displaced or injured. Shakira was not the only Colombian celebrity to react to the devastating earthquake. Several prominent Latin music stars also used their social media platforms to express concern and help spread information about relief efforts. Maluma, J Balvin and Karol G were among the entertainers who addressed the situation, using their large online audiences to raise awareness and share information related to assistance and resources. The earthquake has prompted an outpouring of solidarity across Colombia, with public figures, emergency workers and ordinary citizens joining efforts to support those affected. As rescue and recovery operations continue, messages from stars such as Shakira have highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation during one of the country’s most difficult moments in recent years.

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    Punjab schools to reopen on August 24 after summer…

    LAHORE: Schools across Punjab are set to reopen on August 24 following the summer vacation, with the provincial government directing education authorities to complete all necessary arrangements before students return to classrooms. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has instructed relevant departments and school administrations to ensure that educational institutions are clean, secure and fully prepared for the new academic session. The minister directed school administrations to pay particular attention to the cleanliness of classrooms, washrooms, playgrounds and other areas of school premises. He also stressed the need to ensure the availability of safe and clean drinking water for students and staff. In view of the ongoing monsoon season, authorities have been asked to inspect and clean water tanks and school rooftops and ensure proper disinfection. Drainage systems should also be checked to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water, which can increase the risk of mosquito breeding and dengue fever. The education minister ordered school administrations to strictly follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) aimed at preventing dengue outbreaks. Officials have been directed to identify and remove potential mosquito breeding sites from school premises and ensure that no stagnant water remains in or around the institutions. Security arrangements have also been made a priority ahead of the reopening. The minister directed both government and private schools to ensure full compliance with prescribed security SOPs and make certain that CCTV cameras and other security equipment are operational before students arrive. Schools where construction or repair work is underway have been instructed to install proper barriers and restrict students’ access to potentially hazardous areas. The authorities have also been directed to inspect electrical installations throughout school buildings. School heads must ensure that fans, lights, switches, electrical sockets and wiring are in safe working condition to prevent accidents. Rana Sikandar Hayat further instructed heads of educational institutions to conduct a final inspection of their respective schools before reopening. He warned that negligence, delays or failure to comply with the government’s instructions would not be tolerated and could result in action against those responsible. The minister emphasized that all arrangements must be completed before August 24 so that students can return to school in a clean, safe and healthy environment.

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    7 dead, 8 children missing in Muzaffargarh canal accident

    The death toll from the tragic Muzaffargarh Canal rickshaw accident has risen to seven after rescue teams recovered another body from the canal, while eight people remain missing. The incident occurred when a rickshaw carrying members of a wedding party fell into the canal in Muzaffargarh. A large number of people, including women and children, were travelling in the vehicle at the time of the accident. According to the updated list issued by rescue officials, the deceased have been identified as Dilawar, son of Abdul Rasheed, aged 14; Muneeb, son of Rashid, aged seven; Sakina Bibi, wife of Allah Ditta, aged 58; Sameera Bibi, daughter of Muhammad Shafiq, aged 15; Muhammad Saim, son of Muhammad Iqbal; Muhammad Sabtain, son of Musharraf, aged seven; and Raju, son of Muhammad Iqbal, aged nine. Rescue teams are continuing their search for eight people who are still unaccounted for following the accident. The missing persons have been identified as Muhammad Bilal, son of Muhammad Iqbal; Muhammad Yasir, son of Fida Hussain; Muhammad Ali, son of Muhammad Shafiq; Usman, son of Ghulam Fareed; Shakir, son of Ashiq Hussain; Hassnain, son of Musharraf Ali; Iqbal Bibi, daughter of Fida Hussain; Kaleem Ullah, son of Basheer Ahmad; and Zareef, son of Wazeer Ahmad. Rescue officials have intensified the search operation in the canal to locate the missing passengers. Divers and other rescue personnel are taking part in the operation, while efforts are also being made to determine whether any victims remain trapped in or around the submerged vehicle. Earlier, rescue teams managed to save 11 passengers from the accident. The injured and rescued individuals were shifted to medical facilities for necessary treatment.

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    Trump reportedly left Türkiye on secret flight amid Iran threat

    US President Donald Trump reportedly left Türkiye on a military aircraft during a covert security operation last month. The move was allegedly made because of an Iranian assassination threat. According to a report citing US officials and people familiar with the operation, Trump initially boarded the older Air Force One aircraft in Ankara. Television cameras were present as he departed. Minutes later, however, Trump was reportedly moved to a smaller Air Force C-32A aircraft. The transfer was allegedly carried out using an airport catering truck. The unusual operation was designed to keep Trump’s actual location hidden. The report said the information was not shared publicly. Some journalists and even members of the White House staff were also reportedly unaware of the change. Trump had travelled to Ankara for a NATO summit held on July 7 and 8. The reported security threat emerged during his visit. The operation reportedly took place shortly after US forces resumed strikes against Iran. The strikes followed the collapse of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the security arrangements. He said the aircraft being used as Air Force One had been equipped with advanced security measures. Cheung said the president faced threats from several enemies of the United States. He added that the administration was using all available measures to protect him. The reported security operation comes as tensions between the United States and Iran remain high. Trump has continued to leave open the possibility of stronger military action against Tehran. Oil prices rise amid escalation fears Global oil prices also climbed sharply as markets reacted to Trump’s latest comments on Iran. Brent crude rose around 5% on Monday. It reached about $87.70 per barrel, its highest level in nearly two weeks. US West Texas Intermediate crude also gained around 5.1%. It reached approximately $82.20 per barrel. The rise came after Trump said the United States still had the option of taking stronger action against Iran. Trump told reporters that Washington had the capability to pursue a major escalation if it decided to do so. His comments increased uncertainty over efforts to end the conflict. They also raised concerns about the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has claimed that the strategic waterway is open and fully under US control. However, he acknowledged that Iran could still attempt to interfere with maritime traffic. Iran has taken a different position. Tehran has reportedly demanded that the US lift its blockade before it agrees to fully restore the waterway’s operations. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes. Large volumes of crude oil and liquefied natural gas pass through the waterway. Any prolonged disruption could therefore put further pressure on global energy prices. Oil prices were also supported by reports of attacks involving energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and a tanker operated by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. Meanwhile, US crude reserves remained under pressure. Stocks in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell below 300 million barrels last week. The reserve was reported at around 298.7 million barrels. It was the lowest level recorded since 1983.