تازہ ترین

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    Amitabh Bachchan playfully calls out Preity Zinta over wishes

    Preity Zinta found herself caught off guard when Amitabh Bachchan brought up a playful complaint during their much-awaited reunion on Kaun Banega Crorepati. The Kal Ho Naa Ho actress is set to appear on the popular quiz-based reality show after several years, joining veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan for a special episode. The upcoming episode has already generated excitement among fans, particularly because it brings together some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. In a newly released promo, Bachchan can be seen telling Preity that he has a major complaint against her. The legendary actor reminded the actress that he wishes her every year on her birthday, January 31, but claimed that she has never responded to his wishes. “I have a huge complaint with you. I wish you on your birthday on January 31 every year, and you didn’t even respond to me once,” Amitabh tells Preity in the promo. The unexpected remark left the actress seemingly surprised, creating a lighthearted moment between the two stars. While Bachchan’s complaint appeared to be playful, it also brought back memories of a similar interaction involving the actors. Amitabh had previously raised the same amusing grievance when Preity Zinta appeared on Kaun Banega Crorepati alongside Sunny Deol. At the time, the actors were on the show to promote their historical drama Batwara 1947. During their appearance, Bachchan once again brought up his birthday wishes to Preity, turning the conversation into a humorous exchange. The latest promo has sparked curiosity among viewers about how Preity will respond to the veteran actor’s latest complaint. While some fans have jokingly speculated about a possible issue between the two stars, the interaction appears to be more of a friendly and playful exchange between longtime industry colleagues. The upcoming episode will also feature Sunny Deol making his debut on the Kaun Banega Crorepati hot seat. Preity and Aamir Khan will join him as special guests for the grand premiere of the new season. Aamir also adds to the fun during the episode when he questions Amitabh about a line from the show’s promotional campaign. Referring to Bachchan’s use of the phrase “Sochna Padega,” Aamir asks what exactly contestants need to think about. Amitabh responds with a trademark smirk, telling Aamir that the game will not be easy because contestants genuinely have to think before answering. The new season marks the 18th instalment of Kaun Banega Crorepati. The much-awaited season is scheduled to premiere on Monday, August 10, at 9 PM on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV. With Amitabh’s witty exchanges, Preity’s return to the show and appearances by Sunny Deol and Aamir Khan, the premiere episode is expected to offer plenty of entertaining moments for viewers.

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    Iran issues stark warning to US over ground troops

    TEHRAN: Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, saying any American ground troops attempting to enter Iranian territory would face fierce resistance. The warning was delivered by Iranian Army Ground Forces Commander Brigadier General Ali Jahanshahi, as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high and the region continues to watch closely for signs of further military escalation. According to Iranian media reports, Jahanshahi said Iran’s armed forces were fully prepared to respond to any hostile action. He stressed that the country’s ground forces remained at a high state of readiness and were closely monitoring Iran’s borders. The Iranian commander made clear that Tehran would not take any threat to its territory lightly. Any attempt by an enemy to launch military action on Iranian soil, he said, would trigger an immediate and forceful response. The remarks underline Iran’s long-standing position that a direct ground intervention would represent a major escalation. Iranian officials have repeatedly warned that foreign troops entering the country would encounter strong resistance from the country’s armed forces. Jahanshahi also emphasized that Iran’s military units were prepared to respond to a range of potential scenarios. Security measures along the country’s borders, he said, remain active as authorities continue to assess possible threats. The latest warning comes against the backdrop of continued tensions between Iran and the United States, with military developments and diplomatic efforts both shaping the rapidly changing regional situation. For Tehran, the message appears aimed at drawing a clear red line around Iranian territory: while the country may face external pressure, any attempt to send foreign ground forces across its borders would be treated as a direct threat to national security. Analysts say such statements also reflect Iran’s effort to strengthen deterrence and signal military readiness at a time when uncertainty remains over the future course of US-Iran relations. With tensions already running high, any direct military confrontation could have consequences far beyond Iran and the United States, potentially triggering a wider regional crisis. For now, the sharp warning from Iran adds another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile security situation, while international attention remains focused on whether diplomacy can prevent another escalation.

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    Aubrey Plaza and Christopher Abbott welcome baby girl together

    Aubrey Plaza and Christopher Abbott have entered an exciting new chapter as parents, welcoming their first child together. The couple has reportedly welcomed a baby girl, marking a major milestone in their relationship. The happy news came to light after Plaza was spotted in New York City on Sunday, August 9, carrying her newborn in a baby sling. The actress was seen in a relaxed casual look as she stepped out wearing a black tank top, jeans and her hair pulled into a high ponytail. She appeared to be carrying the newborn after attending Christopher Abbott’s final performance in the Broadway production Death of a Salesman. According to reports, Plaza gave birth to the couple’s daughter during the final week of July 2026. The arrival comes just months after the couple publicly confirmed that they were expecting their first child. Plaza’s pregnancy was officially revealed in April, when her representative confirmed the news. At the time, an insider described the pregnancy as a “beautiful surprise” following an emotional year for the actress and said that Plaza and Abbott felt extremely blessed about starting a family together. The couple later made their red carpet debut as an expecting pair at the 2026 Tony Awards on June 7. The event, held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, gave fans their first major public glimpse of Plaza’s growing baby bump. Although Plaza and Abbott have kept much of their relationship away from the spotlight, their romance reportedly began after years of professional connections. The two previously worked together on the 2020 film Black Bear and later reunited for the 2023 Broadway revival of Danny and the Deep Blue Sea. Their relationship reportedly became public in 2025, with the pair gradually stepping out together before announcing their pregnancy the following year. For Plaza, the birth of her daughter represents an important new beginning after a difficult period in her personal life. Before her relationship with Abbott, the Parks and Recreation star was married to filmmaker Jeff Baena. The former couple separated in 2024 after several years together. Baena died in 2025. Since then, Plaza has largely maintained a private approach to her personal life while continuing to focus on her acting career. Abbott, meanwhile, has remained busy with his professional commitments, including his Broadway role in Death of a Salesman. His final performance in the production appears to have coincided with a particularly memorable moment for the couple, as Plaza was photographed carrying their newborn shortly afterward. The arrival of their baby girl adds another special milestone to Plaza and Abbott’s evolving relationship. While neither star has publicly shared extensive details about their daughter, fans are celebrating the couple’s reported new journey into parenthood.

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    Minal Khan and Ahsan enjoy Disneyland Paris trip with son

    Pakistani actors Minal Khan and Ahsan Mohsin Ikram continue to give fans a glimpse into their beautiful family life as they enjoy a memorable summer vacation across Europe. The celebrity couple, who have both made their mark in the Pakistani entertainment industry, have been spending quality time together with their young son, Hassan. Their European getaway has turned into a special family adventure, with the couple sharing glimpses of their travels and precious moments with their fans along the way. Minal Khan is widely recognised for her performances in several popular Pakistani dramas. She has appeared in successful serials including Jalan, Nand, Hassad and Ishq Hua, among others. While Minal continued her acting career after marriage, Ahsan Mohsin Ikram gradually stepped away from the entertainment industry and turned his attention towards his business ventures. The couple tied the knot and later welcomed their son, Hassan, who has become an important part of their lives. Since becoming parents, Minal and Ahsan have often offered fans sweet glimpses of their family moments, with their little boy frequently stealing the spotlight. This summer, the family decided to embark on an extended trip to Europe. Minal and Ahsan travelled with their son as well as Ahsan’s father, Mohsin Ikram. During their journey, they explored several destinations and documented different moments from their travels. The family has already enjoyed time in Amsterdam and Germany and has now arrived in Paris, where they are making the most of their vacation. Their latest outing was particularly special as they took Hassan to the famous Disneyland Paris. The family appeared to have a wonderful time at the theme park, enjoying various attractions and rides together. For Minal and Ahsan, the outing was not only about exploring one of Paris’ most popular destinations but also about creating lasting childhood memories for their son. Minal looked stylish yet effortless for the family day out. She opted for a simple white tank top paired with a black skirt, creating a comfortable and chic vacation look. Ahsan, meanwhile, chose a black dress shirt with shorts for the outing. Their son Hassan looked equally adorable in a white T-shirt paired with denim. The little boy appeared to enjoy the magical atmosphere of Disneyland Paris as the family spent time exploring the park and experiencing its attractions. The Disneyland visit added another memorable chapter to the family’s European adventure. From exploring different cities to spending relaxed moments together, Minal and Ahsan’s vacation appears to be filled with family bonding and special experiences. Fans have been enjoying the couple’s travel updates, particularly the heartwarming glimpses featuring Hassan. Their latest Disneyland outing once again highlighted the joy they share as a family while travelling through Europe together. As their Paris stay continues, fans will undoubtedly be looking forward to seeing more moments from Minal, Ahsan and little Hassan’s European journey.

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    PSX rallies over 400 points in early trading as investor sentiment improves

    KARACHI: Buying activity returned to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Monday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index gaining more than 400 points during the opening phase of trading as investors showed renewed interest in major sectors. At around 9:50am, the benchmark index was trading at 181,880.56 points, recording an increase of 450.54 points, or 0.25%, compared with the previous close. The positive momentum was supported by buying across several key sectors, including automobile assemblers, cement companies, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration firms, oil marketing companies (OMCs) and refineries. Several heavyweight stocks also contributed to the upward movement. HUBCO, ARL, OGDC, POL, PPL, PSO, HBL, MCB, MEBL and NBP were among the prominent index constituents trading in positive territory during the early session. The latest gains came after the stock market delivered a strong performance last week, when easing geopolitical concerns helped improve investor confidence. Developments surrounding diplomatic efforts between Iran and Oman regarding shipping activity through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, coupled with expectations of a possible wider understanding between the United States and Iran, provided some relief to financial markets. The KSE-100 Index had climbed 5,335.89 points, or around 3%, during the previous week, closing at 181,430.02 points. Global markets provide additional support The positive trend at the PSX was also in line with broader gains across Asian equity markets. Regional stocks moved higher on Monday after Wall Street ended the previous session at record levels, supported by weaker-than-expected US employment data. The softer US jobs figures reduced expectations of an immediate increase in borrowing costs, encouraging investors to take on more risk. However, uncertainty surrounding diplomatic developments in the Gulf continued to influence energy markets. Oil prices edged higher as concerns persisted over the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important routes for global energy supplies. Iran said on Sunday that discussions with Oman over arrangements for new shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz were nearing completion. However, Tehran maintained that the waterway would not fully return to normal operations until the United States met additional conditions. The uncertainty contributed to a rise in international crude prices. Brent crude futures increased 0.9% to $84.32 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 0.7% to $78.74 per barrel. US inflation data in focus Investors are also closely watching the upcoming US consumer inflation data, which could influence expectations regarding the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy. The US July consumer price report, due on Wednesday, is expected to show a 0.1% increase in headline inflation and a 0.2% rise in core inflation, according to market expectations. A stronger-than-anticipated inflation reading could revive concerns that the Federal Reserve may consider raising interest rates in the coming months. Conversely, a softer reading could strengthen expectations of a more accommodative monetary policy. Market pricing currently indicates that expectations for a September rate move have weakened. The probability of such a move has fallen to roughly 44%, compared with about 67% a week earlier. The decline in expectations for higher interest rates supported US Treasury bonds on Friday and helped major Wall Street indices finish at record levels. Asian equities follow Wall Street Asian markets broadly followed the positive lead from the United States on Monday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 advanced around 0.6%, while South Korea’s benchmark index gained approximately 0.5%. Meanwhile, MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares excluding Japan rose about 0.3%. For Pakistan’s equity market, the combination of stronger global sentiment, improved geopolitical expectations and renewed buying in heavyweight stocks provided support at the start of Monday’s session.

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    Pakistan suffer heavy defeat as Ireland score 11

    Pakistan’s difficult start to the Masters Hockey World Cup continued on Monday as Ireland handed them a crushing 11-0 defeat in their second Group D match. The one-sided result leaves Pakistan searching for answers after another disappointing outing in the tournament. Ireland dominated proceedings and repeatedly breached the Pakistani defence, eventually finishing with an emphatic 11-goal victory. Pakistan struggled to create a meaningful attacking threat throughout the contest, while Ireland maintained pressure and capitalised on their opportunities. The Pakistani side failed to find the net despite efforts to regain control of the match. The defeat was particularly disappointing for a team featuring experienced former Olympians. Olympians Shahbaz Senior and Khalid Hameed were unable to produce the kind of performance that could inspire a turnaround as Ireland maintained their control from start to finish. The 11-0 scoreline also highlights the challenge facing Pakistan as they attempt to recover from back-to-back defeats at the competition. Pakistan will now have little time to regroup. Their next Group D assignment is scheduled for August 11, when they will face Wales. The upcoming match could provide Pakistan with an opportunity to put the heavy defeat behind them and restore some confidence. However, they will need a much stronger defensive display and greater attacking organisation if they are to avoid another difficult outing. For Pakistan, the focus now shifts from the disappointment against Ireland to the immediate task of responding against Wales. With the tournament moving quickly, the team will be hoping to turn the page and produce a more competitive performance in its next appearance.

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    Asian markets rise after Wall Street rally as oil prices edge higher

    Asian stock markets opened higher on Monday, taking cues from Wall Street’s latest gains after weaker-than-expected US employment data reduced expectations of an immediate increase in borrowing costs. However, rising oil prices and uncertainty surrounding developments in the Gulf limited the overall optimism in financial markets. Investors were also closely monitoring the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies, after Iran said discussions over the reopening of the strategic waterway were nearing an agreement. Iran announced on Sunday that negotiations with Oman on establishing new shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz had reached their final stages. Tehran, however, maintained that normal traffic through the waterway would resume only after the United States fulfilled additional conditions. The uncertainty surrounding the route kept pressure on crude markets. Brent crude futures increased 0.9% to $84.32 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 0.7% to $78.74 per barrel. The latest increase in energy prices has added another layer of uncertainty for investors ahead of the release of US inflation figures. US Inflation Data in Focus Market participants are now turning their attention to the US consumer price index report scheduled for Wednesday. Economists are expecting headline consumer inflation to rise by 0.1%, while core inflation, which excludes food and energy costs, is projected to increase by 0.2%. A stronger-than-expected inflation reading could revive concerns that the Federal Reserve may be forced to keep interest rates higher for longer and potentially consider another rate increase at its September meeting. Michael Feroli, chief US economist at JPMorgan, said his forecast for core inflation at 0.22% would probably not be sufficient on its own to trigger a rate increase in September. However, he cautioned that repeated monthly increases close to 0.3% could change the outlook. Feroli also highlighted the possibility of a rebound in prices of core goods after they declined for two consecutive months, saying this would be an important factor for markets to monitor. Expectations for a September rate increase have weakened significantly in recent days. Futures markets now indicate roughly a 44% probability of a rate move in September, compared with about 67% a week earlier. Asian Equities Follow Wall Street Higher The decline in expectations for an immediate increase in US interest rates helped US Treasury bonds rally on Friday and supported a strong performance by Wall Street equities. The positive momentum carried into Asian trading on Monday. Japan’s Nikkei index climbed 0.6%, while South Korea’s benchmark market gained 0.5%. MSCI’s broad index of Asia-Pacific shares excluding Japan also advanced 0.3%, reflecting improved investor sentiment across regional markets. The gains came as traders continued to assess the impact of softer US employment data on the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy outlook. Lower expectations for interest-rate increases generally support equities because cheaper financing conditions can encourage investment and improve corporate earnings prospects. European Markets Show Caution European markets were less enthusiastic, with futures pointing to modest declines at the start of trading. EUROSTOXX 50 futures and Germany’s DAX futures each slipped 0.1%, while FTSE futures were down 0.4%. In the United States, S&P 500 futures declined 0.1%, while Nasdaq futures remained largely unchanged. The subdued futures performance followed a particularly strong week for US technology stocks, with the Nasdaq gaining around 5% amid a series of encouraging corporate earnings reports. Strong Corporate Earnings Support US Stocks Corporate earnings have remained a major source of support for US equities. According to analysts at Bank of America, nearly 90% of companies in the S&P 500 had reported their results, with earnings per share rising approximately 30% year-on-year after excluding investment gains recorded by Alphabet and Amazon. The proportion of companies exceeding earnings expectations also remained unusually strong. Around 76% of reporting companies beat analysts’ earnings-per-share estimates, matching the highest level recorded since 2021. Artificial intelligence-related businesses continued to stand out among the strongest performers. Bank of America analysts said companies linked to AI had recorded median earnings-per-share growth of around 28%, compared with approximately 12% for businesses without a direct AI connection. However, analysts expect the pace of AI-related earnings growth to moderate in the coming quarter, with consensus forecasts pointing to growth of around 16%. Investors will have fewer major earnings releases to digest this week, although several important technology companies are scheduled to report results. These include semiconductor manufacturer Applied Materials, networking equipment company Cisco and cloud infrastructure provider CoreWeave. Bond Yields and Dollar Remain in Focus In the bond market, the yield on the benchmark 10-year US Treasury note edged slightly higher to 4.673%. Investors are also preparing for approximately $125 billion in new US government debt issuance during the week, which could influence Treasury yields and broader financial-market conditions. The recent decline in bond yields, combined with improving appetite for riskier assets, has placed pressure on the US dollar. The euro remained close to a seven-week high at around $1.1557. Meanwhile, the dollar was little changed against the Japanese yen at approximately 157.85. Currency traders remain cautious about the possibility of intervention by Japanese authorities if the yen weakens further. Japan has previously expressed concern over sharp and rapid movements in its currency, particularly when excessive weakness threatens to increase import costs. Gold Holds Near Record Levels Gold also remained firmly supported as lower bond yields improved the appeal of the non-interest-bearing precious metal. Spot gold was trading around $4,342 an ounce after recording a gain of more than 7% during the previous week. The metal continues to benefit from a combination of factors, including expectations surrounding US monetary policy, movements in Treasury yields, currency fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainty. With investors awaiting US inflation data and closely watching developments around the Strait of Hormuz, markets are likely to remain sensitive to changes in energy prices and interest-rate expectations in the days ahead.

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    Moomal Khalid slams Nimra Khan’s ex-husband after divorce

    Popular Pakistani actress Nimra Khan has found herself at the centre of public attention following the unexpected end of her second marriage. The actress, who enjoys a massive following of 5.1 million on Instagram, has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities during what appears to be a difficult phase of her life. Nimra Khan is a familiar name in the Pakistani television industry and has been part of several successful dramas throughout her career. Her notable projects include Aye Musht-e-Khaak, Ehraam-e-Junoon, Uraan, Meharbano, Mujhe Khuda Pay Yaqeen Hai, Choti Si Zindagi, Khoob Seerat, Baaghi, Umm-e-Ayesha and Sara Aapi. Her portrayal of a hijabi girl in Umm-e-Ayesha was particularly appreciated by viewers, while Ehraam-e-Junoon and Sara Aapi became some of the most successful projects of her television career. In June 2026, Nimra surprised her followers by announcing her wedding on social media. However, the relationship reportedly came to an end only a short time later in July, leaving many fans shocked by the sudden development. The news has since sparked a discussion on social media, with several members of the entertainment industry expressing sympathy for the actress. Among those who publicly addressed the situation was Nimra’s colleague and close industry fellow Moomal Khalid. Moomal shared an emotional message in which she questioned why people enter into marriage without being fully prepared for the responsibilities that come with it. She described marriage as a major commitment that should not be treated casually or ended without consideration for the other person’s emotions and dignity. She also expressed concern over what she described as public statements surrounding Nimra’s separation. According to Moomal, if two people are forced to part ways for any reason, they should still maintain a level of respect and decency toward each other rather than publicly hurting one another. Moomal further revealed that Nimra had appeared extremely happy after her marriage. She said that she had rarely seen the actress so happy during all the years she had known her, which made the current situation even more heartbreaking for her. The actress also strongly defended Nimra, stressing that she did not believe the situation was Nimra’s fault. She offered her prayers and support, wishing her colleague strength and courage as she navigates what she described as an emotionally painful period. Moomal also criticized the idea of making public posts that could portray one person as responsible for the breakdown of a relationship. She emphasized that nobody should have the right to play with another person’s emotions, life or dignity. Meanwhile, social media users have also expressed their disappointment and sadness over Nimra Khan’s second marriage coming to an end so soon. Many fans have flooded social platforms with messages of support and sympathy for the actress, urging people to respect her privacy during this challenging time.

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    NBA legend Don Nelson dies at 86, leaving lasting legacy

    Don Nelson, one of the most influential coaches in NBA history and the league’s second-winningest coach, has died at the age of 86. His family confirmed that the basketball icon passed away peacefully on Sunday surrounded by loved ones. In a statement, Nelson’s family said friends and relatives had gathered around him during his final days, sharing memories and celebrating a life that left a deep mark on basketball. Nelson’s career stretched across more than three decades. He coached the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks, compiling an extraordinary regular-season record of 1,335 wins and 1,063 losses. His total ranks second all-time behind Gregg Popovich. Known for his fearless approach and willingness to challenge traditional basketball thinking, Nelson became synonymous with “Nellie Ball.” His system emphasized speed, spacing and versatile players, often sacrificing size for athleticism and offensive flexibility. The strategy became particularly influential during his time with Golden State and Dallas, where he repeatedly pushed opponents into uncomfortable matchups. Before becoming a coaching legend, Nelson enjoyed an outstanding playing career. He spent 14 NBA seasons and won five championships with the Boston Celtics, making him one of the most decorated players of his generation. His No. 19 jersey was later retired by Boston. Nelson also earned the NBA Coach of the Year award three times and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. In 2025, he received the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award, another recognition of his extraordinary coaching career. Nelson never won an NBA championship as a head coach, but his ideas helped reshape how the game was played. His legacy lives on in the pace, spacing and positionless basketball that define much of today’s NBA.

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    Kuwait welcomes Pakistan-Saudi-Türkiye Makkah def…

    ISLAMABAD: Kuwait has congratulated Pakistan on the signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, signalling growing regional interest in the new security arrangement. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar received a telephone call from Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah late on Sunday, during which the two officials discussed the agreement as well as the wider regional situation. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the Kuwaiti foreign minister felicitated Dar on the agreement signed in Makkah on Friday. The two ministers also exchanged views on developments in the region, including the situation in occupied East Jerusalem. Their conversation also covered bilateral relations and ways to expand cooperation between Pakistan and Kuwait, particularly in investment and other key sectors. The officials also discussed follow-up to Sheikh Jarrah’s recent visit to Pakistan. “The two sides agreed to remain closely engaged,” the Foreign Office said. The development comes as Pakistan continues to explain the objectives and scope of the landmark defence pact, which brings Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye closer together on security matters. Dar has stressed that the agreement is defensive in nature and is not directed against any particular country. Under the pact, an armed attack against any one of the three signatories would be treated as an attack against all three. The foreign minister said the arrangement was designed to strengthen collective deterrence while supporting regional peace, stability and security. He also maintained that the agreement was consistent with the right of individual and collective self-defence recognised under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. Importantly, Dar clarified that the Makkah agreement does not replace or cancel existing bilateral or multilateral defence arrangements involving the three countries. The pact could also have a broader regional dimension. Dar said the agreement remains open to other countries in the region that are willing to respect its principles and resolve differences through dialogue, cooperation and peaceful means. His comments came amid reports that Egypt could potentially join the arrangement. Earlier, Dar also spoke with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, with the two officials discussing regional developments and the newly signed agreement. Pakistan has presented the Makkah accord as part of its broader foreign-policy objective of promoting regional stability and peaceful conflict resolution. With Kuwait now extending its congratulations, attention is increasingly turning to how the new defence framework could influence cooperation and security across the wider region.