تازہ ترین

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    Carly Simon revisits troubled James Taylor marriag…

    Carly Simon is taking listeners back to one of the most complicated chapters of her life. More than four decades after her marriage to James Taylor ended, the legendary singer-songwriter appears to be questioning what their relationship really meant. Simon, 83, addresses the uncertainty surrounding her former marriage in “Maybe I Never Loved You,” a deeply personal song from her new album Comes in Waves. The album, released on August 14, marks her first collection of original music in 18 years. (People.com⁠) The song does not mention Taylor by name. However, its subject matter has led many listeners and publications to believe that Simon is reflecting on her relationship with the singer. The pair were married from 1972 until their divorce in 1983 and share two children, Sally and Ben. (Page Six⁠) Rather than offering a simple answer about whether she loved Taylor, Simon appears to embrace the uncertainty. The song explores the conflicting emotions that can remain after a relationship ends, including affection, disappointment and regret. That complexity is important because Simon has spoken about her feelings for Taylor very differently in the past. In a 2015 interview following the publication of her memoir, Boys in the Trees, Simon said she still loved her former husband despite the fact that they had not spoken for decades. Her earlier comments suggested that the emotional connection had never completely disappeared. (People.com⁠) Her new song therefore does not necessarily mean Simon has suddenly decided that she never loved Taylor. Instead, it seems to show how memories of a long and difficult relationship can change with time. Their marriage was heavily affected by Taylor’s struggles with heroin addiction, while both musicians have previously acknowledged the difficulties surrounding their relationship. The couple eventually separated in 1981 before their divorce was finalized two years later. (Nine⁠) Simon also explores the impact of the divorce on their children in another song on Comes in Waves, “Mother of Pearl.” The track reflects on Sally and Ben growing up amid their parents’ separation and the emotional tension surrounding their family. (People.com⁠) The new album arrives during a significant period in Simon’s life. She has recently faced health challenges, including a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis and treatment for skin cancer. Music has once again provided her with a way to process difficult emotions and memories. (WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta⁠) Ultimately, Simon’s latest work is less about rewriting history and more about confronting it. Her complicated feelings toward Taylor remain part of her story, and Comes in Waves gives her space to examine them with honesty. After decades of silence, Carly Simon has found another way to speak about a love story that clearly still carries emotional weight.

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    PTI questions Imran Khan’s transfer to Pims

    ISLAMABAD: Opposition leaders have raised serious questions over the decision to take former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) instead of Shifa International Hospital. The issue has created a fresh political dispute between the government and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Speaking in the National Assembly, senior politician and Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party Chairman Mahmood Khan Achakzai said a positive atmosphere had developed after reports emerged that Imran would be taken to hospital. Achakzai said people across Pakistan were happy to hear that Imran was being taken to hospital for a medical examination. He said his party had instructed its workers not to go to any hospital. The decision was aimed at avoiding any situation that could create security problems, he added. Achakzai also claimed that Imran’s sisters were stopped at Shifa International Hospital. He said the development had caused concern among people across the country. He questioned why the situation changed after an apparently positive atmosphere had developed. Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan strongly criticised the decision to take Imran to Pims. Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, Gohar said the party had not expected Imran to be taken to another hospital. He also expressed concern over the lack of clear information about the former prime minister’s medical examination. Gohar claimed that the Supreme Court’s order had not been implemented. He said the court’s directive was clear and contained no ambiguity. According to Gohar, failure to implement a clear judicial order was unfortunate. He questioned how democracy could function if court orders could not be implemented. “If implementing a court order is difficult, then how will democracy function?” he asked. Gohar also said political negotiations could not take place under such circumstances. He maintained that democracy required institutions and political actors to respect the law and judicial decisions. Despite his criticism, the PTI chairman said his party remained committed to negotiations. He said the PTI wanted political disputes to be resolved through dialogue. He added that efforts in this regard would continue. The controversy follows Information Minister Attaullah Tarar’s statement about Imran’s medical examination. Tarar said Imran was examined at Pims rather than Shifa International Hospital. He said doctors from Shifa were also present during the medical examination. The government has maintained that security concerns led authorities to take Imran to Pims. The issue has now become a new point of confrontation between the government and PTI. The PTI is questioning the decision to change the hospital and the implementation of the Supreme Court’s directive. The government, meanwhile, is defending the move on security and medical grounds.

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    Iran vows to resist new US sanctions as China rejects pressure

    TEHRAN: Iran has vowed to strengthen its economy and find ways to withstand what it calls unjustified US sanctions, as Washington prepares to announce a new package of economic measures against Tehran. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf made the remarks during a meeting with Iranian and Iraqi business representatives in Baghdad on Friday. Ghalibaf said economic strength and national security were closely connected. He accused the United States and Israel of using economic and political pressure after failing to achieve their objectives through direct military confrontation. He called for stronger economic cooperation between Iran and Iraq. He also suggested that the two neighbours increase trade using their national currencies to reduce dependence on the US dollar. Ghalibaf said Iran and Iraq should focus on economic development and shared prosperity despite pressure from Western countries. The comments came a day after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans for what he described as the toughest sanctions ever imposed on Iran. Bessent said further details of the measures would be released on Monday. He suggested that maximum economic pressure could reduce the need for another major military operation against Iran. US President Donald Trump has also warned countries and businesses against providing financial or economic support to Tehran. Trump described the planned campaign as an unprecedented effort of economic warfare and isolation. He warned that countries allowing financial institutions, companies, airports or government bodies to provide assistance to Iran could face severe economic consequences. Iran has strongly rejected the US pressure. Its Foreign Ministry described the latest sanctions as economic terrorism and said they would not weaken Iran’s determination to protect its independence and sovereignty. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also accused Washington of trying to divert attention from economic problems inside the United States. China rejects sanctions strategy China has opposed Washington’s approach and said sanctions and economic pressure would not solve the conflict. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian called on all sides to adopt responsible measures and seek a political and diplomatic solution. China has significant economic ties with Iran and remains a major buyer of Iranian oil. Data from energy analytics firm Kpler indicated that China accounted for more than 80% of Iran’s shipped oil purchases in 2025. The issue could further complicate US-China relations. Washington has warned against economic cooperation with Tehran, while China has repeatedly criticised unilateral sanctions. Bessent said the United States was seeking cooperation from its allies and other countries. He argued that China had a strong interest in maintaining stability in the Gulf because a significant portion of its energy supplies comes from the region. The latest sanctions threat comes as the wider Middle East conflict continues to disrupt energy markets and regional trade. Oil prices rose after Trump announced plans for stronger economic measures against Iran. The conflict has affected oil supplies and raised concerns about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway handles a significant share of global oil trade and has become a major point of tension during the conflict. The United States and Iran have announced ceasefire agreements on two occasions in recent months, but both arrangements have broken down. Iran now faces growing economic pressure from Washington while attempting to maintain trade and regional partnerships.

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    Hayden Panettiere’s boyfriend breaks silence aft…

    Brian Hickerson, Hayden Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend, has broken his silence following the actress’s sudden death at age 36. His first public response came through his attorney as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding her passing. Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died on August 16 in Greenville, South Carolina. She was found unresponsive at a residence, and emergency responders attempted life-saving measures before she was pronounced dead. A preliminary autopsy found no signs of trauma, while officials have said there is currently no indication of foul play. The cause and manner of death remain pending further investigation and toxicology testing. (People.com⁠) Hickerson was reportedly at the apartment when Panettiere died, along with his brother, Zach. According to reports based on the police incident report, Zach found the actress unresponsive and contacted emergency services. Hickerson later became emotional after Panettiere was pronounced dead. (AP News⁠) Days after her death, Hickerson issued his first response through attorney Sloan Ellis. “Hayden’s death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” Ellis said in a statement to TMZ. He added that police had confirmed there were no signs of foul play and said there would be no further comment out of respect for Panettiere’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation. (https://www.wcax.com⁠) The brief statement comes as questions surrounding Panettiere’s death continue to grow. Authorities have not publicly established a cause of death, although emergency dispatch audio reportedly referenced a possible overdose and cardiac arrest. Officials are awaiting additional testing before making a final determination. (https://www.wcax.com⁠) Hickerson and Panettiere had a complicated relationship that began in 2018. Their romance was marked by multiple breakups and reconciliations. Panettiere had previously spoken publicly about abuse within the relationship, while Hickerson pleaded no contest to two felony charges connected to domestic violence in 2021. He served jail time and received a protective order. (People.com⁠) Despite their difficult history, the pair had reportedly remained in contact and were seen together again in 2026. Hickerson’s presence at the scene of Panettiere’s death has consequently drawn significant public attention, although he has not been accused or charged in connection with her death. Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the actress’s final hours. The preliminary autopsy has ruled out visible trauma, but investigators are still waiting for toxicology and other testing. As fans remember Panettiere’s career and her life as a mother, the investigation remains ongoing. For now, Hickerson’s attorney has made clear that he will not discuss the case further while authorities work to establish what happened. Panettiere’s death has left Hollywood mourning a performer whose career began in childhood and included some of television’s most memorable roles. Her family, friends and fans now await answers about her tragic final moments.

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    Meghan Markle’s financial reality comes under sc…

    Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s surprise return to the UK has sparked fresh questions about their financial future, particularly the fate of their lavish Montecito home. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly moving back to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after six years in California. However, the couple are not currently planning to give up their American base. Several reports say they intend to keep their Montecito mansion, which they purchased for about $14.7 million in 2020. (People.com⁠) Despite those reports, speculation about a possible sale has intensified. A recent New York Post report claimed the Sussexes could eventually consider putting the property on the market because of its enormous running costs. The nine-bedroom estate reportedly carries more than $600,000 a year in mortgage payments and property taxes alone, before insurance, security and maintenance are added. Some local real-estate estimates suggest the property could now be worth considerably more than the couple originally paid. (New York Post⁠) The reports come as Harry and Meghan prepare for a major lifestyle change. Their children are expected to attend school in the UK, while the couple will establish a private British home. At the same time, they are expected to retain their California property and their vacation home in Portugal. (AP News⁠) That means the family could potentially be maintaining three properties across two countries. Financial pressure has therefore become part of the conversation surrounding their relocation. Page Six reported that the couple’s annual expenses could reach around $6 million, including staff, security, mortgages and other lifestyle costs. The publication also reported that their previous major entertainment deals have become less lucrative, with Spotify no longer involved and Netflix’s relationship reportedly reduced. (Page Six⁠) However, it is important to separate confirmed information from speculation. There is currently no confirmed public listing showing that the Montecito mansion is officially for sale. In fact, TMZ reported that the couple plans to keep the California property despite their UK move. People has similarly reported that the Sussexes intend to retain the mansion. (TMZ⁠) Another property has faced more direct sale speculation. In early August, The News reported claims that Harry and Meghan could consider selling their Portuguese retreat because of its ongoing costs. Those claims were based on unnamed sources and have not been independently confirmed by the couple. (thenews.com.pk⁠) For Meghan, the situation highlights the challenge of maintaining an expensive international lifestyle while building new income streams. Her As Ever brand remains an important part of her business plans, while Harry continues his charitable work. For now, the Montecito mansion remains in the Sussexes’ hands. Whether it eventually becomes “the one on the chopping block” remains uncertain, but their return to Britain has undoubtedly placed their property portfolio and finances under a much brighter spotlight.

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    Pablo Alborán cancels concert after revealing sev…

    Pablo Alborán has delivered disappointing news to his fans after being forced to cancel an upcoming concert because of illness. The Spanish singer-songwriter announced that he will not perform in Ciudad Real on August 21 after doctors diagnosed him with severe pneumonia. The concert was scheduled as part of his ongoing KM0 tour and had already sold out, making the cancellation especially disappointing for fans who were looking forward to seeing him live. (Diario AS⁠) Alborán shared the health update with his followers on social media, explaining that he had been advised by doctors to take complete rest for the next few days. He apologized for having to cancel the performance and thanked fans for filling the special concert. The singer also tried to reassure those worried about him. He said he had already started taking antibiotics and asked people to treat the news calmly rather than spreading speculation or sensational headlines about his condition. (Diario AS⁠) His message came just days after a busy run of performances. Earlier this month, Alborán performed his KM0 tour in the Canary Islands, where thousands of fans attended his shows. The tour features both his newer material and well-known songs including “Solamente Tú” and “Saturno.” (Cadena SER⁠) The cancelled Ciudad Real concert was scheduled for the Auditorio Municipal La Granja as part of the city’s Feria y Fiestas celebrations. Organizers confirmed that ticket holders will receive automatic refunds. The refund process is expected to begin on August 24, with the money returned through the original payment method within approximately 48 to 72 hours. (OndaCero⁠) For Alborán, the setback comes at an important point in his international touring schedule. Following his Spanish dates, he is expected to continue with performances later in August before heading to Latin America in the coming months. His upcoming international dates include concerts in Mexico during October. (www.ocesa.com.mx⁠) Despite the sudden interruption, the singer remains optimistic about returning to the stage. His message made clear that his immediate priority is recovery rather than rushing back to work. Alborán is no stranger to major international recognition. The singer has received numerous Latin Grammy nominations throughout his career, including recognition for his album La Cu4rta Hoja. The Recording Academy has noted his remarkable history of 29 Latin Grammy nominations. (Grammy⁠) For now, fans are sending their support as the singer takes time to recover. While missing a sold-out concert is undoubtedly disappointing, Alborán’s decision to follow medical advice gives him the best chance of returning to the stage fully recovered. His fans will now have to wait a little longer to hear him perform live again.

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    PTI to file contempt plea over Imran Khan hospital…

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced that it will approach the Supreme Court over what it describes as the government’s failure to implement its order regarding Imran Khan’s transfer to Shifa International Hospital. PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said the party would file a contempt petition on Saturday. He alleged that the authorities did not comply with the court’s directions and failed to constitute the medical board ordered by the Supreme Court. The development follows the government’s decision to take Imran Khan to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for a medical examination instead of Shifa International Hospital. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Imran was taken to PIMS during the night between August 20 and 21 because of security concerns around Shifa Hospital. According to Tarar, doctors from Shifa were present during the examination, while a team comprising specialists examined Imran and declared him medically fit. He said Imran was later taken back to Adiala jail at around 5am. Raja rejected the government’s explanation, saying there was no unusual rush on the roads leading to Shifa. He also claimed that Imran’s personal physician, Dr Faisal Sultan, was taken to the hospital in a police-escorted vehicle. The PTI leader said the party’s political and parliamentary committees were meeting to determine its next course of action. He also reiterated that PTI had already announced plans for street protests over the issue. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan separately criticised the government’s handling of the matter. He questioned how political negotiations could continue when, according to him, a clear Supreme Court order had not been implemented. Gohar said the party had been assured that the court’s directions would be followed. He argued that the order clearly required Imran to be shifted to a hospital for treatment and undergo medical tests. He also questioned why the PTI leadership and Imran’s family were not properly informed about the transfer and medical examination. “You do not shake hands like this. Negotiations do not happen like this,” Gohar said while responding to the government’s offer for political dialogue. Speaking in the National Assembly, he warned that PTI could reconsider its participation in Parliament. He said the party would decide within a few days whether it would continue attending the assembly. Opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai also raised questions over the overnight transfer. He said people had expected Imran to be taken to Shifa after the Supreme Court order, but later learned that he had been taken to another hospital. Achakzai expressed concern that elements within the government could be attempting to damage prospects for political dialogue between PTI and the government. The controversy stems from a Supreme Court order issued earlier this week directing that Imran Khan be shifted to Shifa International Hospital for treatment for several days. The court also ordered weekly meetings between Imran and his family and allowed access to his personal physician. The court directed that a medical board comprising an ophthalmologist, general physician and cardiologist be formed, with Dr Faisal Sultan and Imran’s sister, Dr Uzma Khan, associated with the process. The Supreme Court also ordered that Imran’s medical reports remain confidential and should not be used for political purposes. It instructed PTI supporters and lawyers not to hold political activities or press conferences outside the hospital.

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    England take 238-run oead as Pakistan struggle at Headingley

    LEEDS: England strengthened their position in the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley on Thursday, reaching 409 runs in their first innings to secure a substantial 238-run lead after Pakistan were bowled out for 171. Pakistan’s bowlers managed to break through England’s batting line-up on the third morning, but the home side’s tailenders added valuable runs to push the total beyond the 400-run mark. England resumed the day on 366-8, with Jofra Archer and the lower order looking to extend their advantage. Archer remained unbeaten on 23, while Jamie Smith contributed 25 before being dismissed. Josh Tong was also removed after scoring eight. Earlier, England’s top and middle order had laid the foundation for the imposing total. Harry Brook missed out on a century but made a valuable 91, while Jordan Cox scored 73. Captain Joe Root continued his dependable form with 66, and Dan Lawrence added 51. The combined efforts of England’s senior batters ensured that Pakistan faced a demanding bowling assignment and left their opponents with a sizeable deficit to overcome. For Pakistan, Ali Usman emerged as the standout bowler. The spinner claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket, providing a major highlight for the visitors despite England’s strong batting performance. Khurram Shahzad supported him with three wickets, while Mohammad Abbas and Mohammad Ali took one wicket each. Pakistan’s first innings had lasted only long enough to produce 171 runs, leaving their bowlers with the difficult task of restricting England and preventing the hosts from building an overwhelming advantage. England’s ability to extend their innings through the lower order proved particularly costly for Pakistan. Archer’s unbeaten 23 ensured that the hosts crossed the 400 mark, while the additional runs from Smith and Tong further increased the pressure on the visitors. With England now holding a 238-run lead, Pakistan face a challenging second innings. Their batters will need to produce a vastly improved performance if they are to prevent England from taking control of the Test. The Headingley contest has already produced a contrasting display from the two sides: England’s batting depth has stood out, while Pakistan’s Ali Usman has provided a significant individual breakthrough with his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The match remains a stern test of Pakistan’s resilience as they look to recover from their modest first-innings total and keep their hopes alive in the opening Test.

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    Imran Khan shifa hospital transfer: PTI announces …

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has decided to approach the Supreme Court with a contempt of court petition if former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan is not transferred to Shifa International Hospital by Thursday night. According to PTI sources, the party is waiting for implementation of the Supreme Court’s order regarding Imran Khan’s Shifa Hospital transfer. If no progress is made by the deadline, the party plans to file the contempt petition on Friday morning. The Supreme Court had ordered on August 18 that Khan, who remains imprisoned, be transferred to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for medical assessment and treatment. The court also directed the formation of a medical board, including specialists and Khan’s personal physician. The order came amid continuing concerns surrounding Khan’s health and access to medical treatment. The court also issued directions concerning family meetings and communication with his son. The government, however, challenged the decision. On August 19, it filed a review petition arguing that the order to move Khan to a private hospital should be reconsidered. The government has maintained that existing prison and legal procedures should be followed regarding treatment of prisoners. The legal dispute intensified on Thursday when the Supreme Court Registrar’s Office returned the government’s review petition after raising objections. Sources said the government intends to address the objections and submit the petition again. PTI has maintained that the Supreme Court’s order should be implemented without delay. Party representatives have warned that failure to comply with the directive could lead to contempt proceedings against the officials responsible for implementation. The developing situation has created another legal and political confrontation between PTI and the government. The next several hours could determine whether the matter is resolved administratively or moves into another round of proceedings before the Supreme Court. For now, PTI’s position is clear: if Imran Khan is not shifted to Shifa International Hospital by Thursday night, the party says it will seek legal action through a contempt of court petition on Friday morning.

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    Sindh police finally question doctor over Mir Raza…

    Sindh police have finally questioned Dr Usama, the medico-legal officer who conducted the first post-mortem examination of Karachi businessman Mir Raza, nearly 25 days after the initial report was prepared. Dr Usama had classified Mir Raza’s death as suicide in his original post-mortem report. The report later came under serious scrutiny after several alleged discrepancies were highlighted by Police Surgeon Dr Samia Syed. Police initially defended the medico-legal officer’s findings. However, Dr Usama was later removed from his position following concerns over major errors in the post-mortem examination. Police have now formally included him in the investigation and questioned him for around five hours. The case concerns the death of young Karachi businessman Mir Raza Ali Khan, who went missing from the PECHS area on July 28. He reportedly left his home at around 4:09am in an online taxi. His body was recovered from Gulistan-e-Johar two days later. According to police officials, the body was found in a severely damaged condition. Mir Raza had suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. His social media accounts were also reportedly deactivated one day before his body was found. Mir Raza’s father had said that his son was scheduled to get married on August 30 at Bait-ul-Mukarram Mosque in Gulshan-e-Iqbal. He said Mir Raza had been excited about beginning a new chapter in his life. Questions were raised over the initial post-mortem report after several discrepancies were highlighted during a television programme on August 4. Police Surgeon Dr Samia Syed and Mir Raza’s father both expressed dissatisfaction with the initial findings and called attention to issues surrounding the examination. Following a court order, Mir Raza’s grave was exhumed on August 8 for a second post-mortem examination. His body was reburied later the same day. The initial post-mortem findings reportedly stated that the bullet had entered from the back. The examination also documented signs of physical injuries and trauma. According to the report, Mir Raza had fractured ribs and multiple injuries to his head and face. Dark marks were also reportedly found on different parts of his body. The report further mentioned injuries to his feet and blood staining in tissues in the lower part of the body. A fracture and injury measuring around 12 centimetres were reportedly found on his right thigh. The initial examination also identified a deep injury and fracture around the jaw, along with injuries to the nasal bone and several areas of the face. The developments have intensified questions surrounding the circumstances of Mir Raza’s death and the accuracy of the first post-mortem report.