تازہ ترین

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    Karachi braces for cloudy, humid weather

    ByJustpaste.in

    Karachi is expected to witness cloudy and humid weather over the next 24 hours, with light drizzle likely in some areas during the morning and evening, according to the latest forecast issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Monday. The Met Office said daytime temperatures in the port city are expected to remain between 33°C and 35°C, while the minimum temperature recorded early Monday was 28°C. Humidity levels remained high at 78 percent, making weather conditions feel warmer than the actual temperature. Sea breezes continued to blow across the city at a speed of around 15 kilometres per hour, providing some relief from the humid conditions. Weather officials said intermittent drizzle could occur in isolated parts of Karachi, particularly during the early morning and after sunset, although no widespread rainfall is expected. Meanwhile, the PMD has projected that August 2026 is likely to be drier than usual across much of Pakistan, with rainfall expected to remain below the long-term average in most regions. The monthly climate outlook, released on July 31, was prepared using forecasts generated by 10 internationally recognised seasonal climate prediction models, providing a comprehensive assessment of expected weather trends during the month. According to the department, large-scale climate patterns are expected to play a significant role in shaping weather conditions across the country. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently in a positive phase and is likely to continue through August, while the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) has also shifted into a positive phase. Meteorologists say the combination of these climate systems is expected to suppress rainfall in many parts of Pakistan. As a result, below-average rainfall is forecast for most regions of the country. The greatest rainfall deficits are expected over northeastern and central Punjab, extending into adjoining parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, as well as southeastern Sindh. In contrast, parts of Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to receive rainfall closer to normal levels during the month, making it one of the few regions where precipitation is not forecast to decline significantly. The PMD has also warned that temperatures across Pakistan are likely to remain above seasonal averages throughout August. The most pronounced rise in temperatures is expected over eastern Gilgit-Baltistan, central and northeastern Punjab, adjoining areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and northern Balochistan.

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    Mufti Jana Mir killed in targeted blast in Wana

    ByJustpaste.in

    Mufti Jana Mir was killed in a targeted explosion near Rustam Bazaar in Wana, the main town of Lower South Waziristan, on Monday, according to police officials. The blast occurred close to Rustam Bazaar, where unidentified attackers had allegedly planted explosive material on the ground floor of a building. The device exploded as Mufti Jan Mir passed through the area, killing him on the spot. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) said the attack appeared to be a planned assassination. He confirmed that investigators believe the explosives had been installed in advance to specifically target Mufti Jana Mir. Police and security personnel rushed to the scene immediately after the explosion. The area was cordoned off, while bomb disposal and forensic teams collected evidence from the blast site. Officials said all available evidence has been secured and a detailed investigation is underway to identify those responsible and determine the circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities have not yet claimed responsibility for the bombing, and no arrests have been announced. Security has been increased in and around Wana as investigators continue their inquiry. Mufti Jana Mir was widely respected for his efforts to promote peace and social harmony in South Waziristan. He regularly participated in peace initiatives and remained actively involved in campaigns aimed at improving law and order in the region. He was also a regular speaker at the National Peace Jirga, where he called for unity, dialogue and lasting peace. Community members regarded him as an influential religious figure who consistently encouraged peaceful coexistence and opposed violence.

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    Chelsea sign Valentin Barco on seven-year contract

    ByJustpaste.in

    Chelsea have continued their active summer transfer business by completing the signing of Argentine defender and midfielder Valentin Barco on a seven-year contract. The 22-year-old becomes the club’s seventh signing of the current transfer window, further highlighting Chelsea’s determination to strengthen the squad ahead of the new season under head coach Xabi Alonso. Barco arrives from French side Strasbourg, becoming the second player to make the move from the Ligue 1 club to Stamford Bridge this summer after striker Emmanuel Emegha. The transfer also adds to the growing number of deals completed between Chelsea and Strasbourg since both clubs came under the same ownership group. Since the beginning of last season, the two clubs have conducted several player transfers as part of their long-term sporting strategy. Known for his versatility, Barco is capable of playing as a left-back, wing-back or central midfielder. His technical ability, attacking mindset and composure on the ball have made him one of Argentina’s promising young talents. Chelsea believe his flexibility will provide valuable options across multiple positions during the upcoming campaign. Barco is no stranger to English football. He previously joined Brighton & Hove Albion but struggled to establish himself in the Premier League. Seeking regular first-team football, he moved to Strasbourg on loan in 2024 before making the switch permanent the following year. His performances in France helped Strasbourg secure qualification for the UEFA Conference League, with Barco becoming one of the team’s standout performers. His consistent displays earned praise for his defensive work, creativity and ability to contribute in attack. On the international stage, Barco has also continued to build his reputation. He was part of Argentina’s squad that reached the FIFA World Cup final, gaining valuable experience alongside some of the country’s biggest stars. During the tournament, he attracted attention after an emotional exchange with England midfielder Jude Bellingham following Argentina’s passionate celebrations in front of England’s players after the semi-final victory. Chelsea’s latest signing reflects the club’s continued focus on recruiting young players with significant long-term potential. The Blues have invested heavily in emerging talent in recent transfer windows, aiming to build a squad capable of competing for major honours over the coming years. Barco joins a growing list of new arrivals at Stamford Bridge this summer. Chelsea recently confirmed the signing of experienced striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton, adding leadership and attacking depth to the squad. The club have also strengthened their defence with the arrival of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, while Morgan Rogers has joined from Aston Villa to boost the attacking midfield options. In addition to those signings, Chelsea have secured the services of Marco Palestra, Emmanuel Emegha and Geovany Quenda as part of their extensive recruitment drive. With pre-season preparations continuing, Chelsea hope the arrival of Barco and several other new faces will help the team adapt quickly to Xabi Alonso’s tactical approach. Expectations are high as the Blues look to challenge strongly in domestic competitions while returning to the top level of European football. Barco’s versatility, energy and international experience are expected to make him an important addition as Chelsea prepare for the new season.

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    PMDC issues advisory for Afghan medical students

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has issued an advisory for Pakistani students pursuing or planning to pursue medical and dental education in Afghanistan, warning that graduates from Afghan institutions will not be eligible to practise medicine in Pakistan. According to the advisory, medical and dental graduates from Afghanistan will not be able to obtain registration with the PMDC, making them ineligible to work as licensed healthcare professionals in the country. The council stated that medical institutions in Afghanistan are not included in the recognised list of the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). As a result, graduates from these institutions will also be barred from appearing in Pakistan’s National Registration Examination (NRE), a mandatory requirement for obtaining a medical licence. PMDC advised Pakistani students to carefully verify whether a foreign medical institution is recognised by the ECFMG before seeking admission. The council stressed that enrolling in an unrecognised institution could prevent graduates from securing professional registration and practising medicine in Pakistan. The advisory aims to help students make informed decisions about pursuing medical education abroad and to avoid academic and professional complications after graduation. PMDC urged aspiring medical students to ensure that any foreign institution they choose meets internationally recognised accreditation standards before finalising their admissions.

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    Monsoon fury raises flood risks across Pakistan, N…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s disaster management authorities have issued a fresh flood alert as intensified monsoon rains continue to push water levels higher in major rivers, raising concerns over flooding in several parts of the country. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said river flows are expected to increase significantly between August 2 and 4, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas and remain alert to changing weather conditions. According to the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), high flooding has been observed in the Lehri River at Head Gogi, while Nullah Palkhu near Wazirabad is experiencing medium-level flooding. The Indus River is currently witnessing low-level flooding at Kalabagh, Chashma, Guddu and Sukkur, while similar conditions have been reported at Head Nari on the Nari River. The NDMA warned that the Chenab River is likely to experience high water flows at Marala, with low to medium flooding anticipated at Khanki and Qadirabad. Water levels are also expected to rise in the Jhelum, Ravi and Kabul rivers and their tributaries as monsoon activity intensifies. Officials cautioned that streams connected to the Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi rivers could swell to medium or high levels. Meanwhile, water flows in the Ravi and Sutlej rivers will largely depend on releases from reservoirs across the border. The authority also expressed concern over the possibility of flash floods in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur, as well as seasonal streams in central and southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and northern Balochistan. In addition, urban flooding and waterlogging remain a serious threat in several cities, including Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Hyderabad, Badin, Thatta and other parts of Sindh due to continued heavy rainfall. The NDMA advised residents to avoid crossing flooded roads and waterways, monitor weather updates before travelling, and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. It also encouraged the public to use the official Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application for real-time weather warnings and emergency information. Separately, the Prime Minister’s Emergency Response Committee (ERC) held its 10th consecutive daily review meeting to assess the country’s monsoon situation. The meeting, chaired virtually by Planning Minister Prof Ahsan Iqbal, brought together federal ministries, provincial governments, disaster management authorities and senior administrative officials. During the briefing, the NDMA presented the latest updates on weather conditions, casualties, infrastructure damage, rescue operations and rehabilitation efforts. Officials informed the committee that deputy commissioners in all high-risk districts had already been directed to remain fully prepared for any emergency. The committee was told that recent heavy rains had caused flooding in multiple regions, with coordinated rescue and relief operations continuing through federal, provincial and district authorities. Weather experts also forecast more rainfall across northern and central Pakistan in the coming days, while isolated showers are expected in southeastern Sindh. The NDMA highlighted that relief activities are being carried out with the support of both national and international humanitarian organisations. Officials further noted that most monsoon-related fatalities this season resulted from the collapse of unsafe and poorly constructed buildings, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement of building safety regulations and greater public awareness. The ERC commended the efforts of government institutions, provincial administrations, district authorities, the armed forces and rescue teams for their ongoing response. It directed all relevant departments to strengthen coordination, maintain maximum preparedness, accelerate relief and rehabilitation work, and take preventive measures to minimise the impact of future weather emergencies.

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    China stands firm on economic strategy ahead of ke…

    ByJustpaste.in

    BEIJING: China has intensified its defence of its state-led economic model as it prepares for crucial trade discussions with the European Union and the United States, signalling that it is unlikely to make major policy concessions despite mounting international criticism. Beijing has repeatedly argued that its development strategy, which prioritises investment in advanced manufacturing and technology, remains essential for long-term economic growth. Chinese leaders maintain that the country’s industrial policies have helped strengthen innovation and global competitiveness, rejecting accusations that they distort international trade. The latest policy statements from China’s leadership indicate a commitment to maintaining its current economic direction. While officials acknowledge challenges such as weak domestic demand and excess production capacity, they continue to favour targeted policy support instead of broad consumer-focused stimulus measures. Chinese authorities have also dismissed Western claims of industrial overcapacity, describing such criticism as politically motivated. They argue that China’s manufacturing success reflects its stage of economic development and benefits global consumers through affordable, high-quality products. Ahead of expected meetings between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump later this year, as well as upcoming negotiations with the European Union, Beijing has adopted a more confident tone in defending its economic policies. Analysts believe the messaging is intended to establish clear limits on what China is willing to negotiate while encouraging greater understanding of its development model. China has also sought to counter warnings of a new “China shock” by portraying its industrial expansion as an opportunity for global economic growth. However, many Western economists argue that China’s reliance on exports, combined with subdued domestic consumption, continues to create imbalances that affect international markets. Although Beijing has slowed public investment by tightening oversight of local government spending, officials acknowledge that supply and demand remain uneven. Authorities have pledged to reduce destructive price competition among manufacturers and have reiterated their intention to strengthen consumer demand, though without announcing sweeping structural reforms. Chinese policymakers have also recognised that the country’s traditionally low household consumption cannot remain a permanent feature of its economy. While official publications describe the existing model as historically appropriate, they also suggest gradual adjustments will be necessary to ensure sustainable long-term growth. Despite these acknowledgements, Beijing remains cautious about implementing rapid reforms, fearing that abrupt policy changes could undermine economic stability. International studies continue to raise concerns over China’s economic practices. Recent research suggests that government subsidies have played a significant role in boosting the global market share of many Chinese companies, while other reports attribute much of China’s export growth to weak domestic consumption and industrial overcapacity. Analysts also note that China continues to invest in productive assets at a much faster pace than Europe and the United States, even though returns on those investments have declined. Many experts believe Beijing’s increasingly assertive defence of its economic model reflects growing confidence that it can manage trade tensions with Western partners without fundamentally changing its industrial strategy.

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    Information Ministry accuses Al Jazeera of biased …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has accused international broadcaster Al Jazeera of presenting a misleading picture of the recently held Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections, alleging that its coverage selectively portrayed the electoral process. In an official statement, the ministry said the broadcaster reported from selected polling stations in Muzaffarabad and relied on carefully chosen interviews and timings that did not accurately reflect the overall conduct of the elections. It claimed the reporting created a distorted impression of the voting process and failed to represent the broader electoral environment. The ministry further alleged that such coverage appeared aimed at undermining the credibility of the elections and ignoring what it described as the democratic will expressed by voters across the region. It maintained that the people of AJK had exercised their right to vote despite political tensions. Alongside its criticism of the coverage, the ministry reminded foreign media organisations operating in Pakistan that reporting assignments outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi require prior approval under the country’s External Publicity Guidelines. It urged all foreign correspondents to comply with the regulations governing reporting in other parts of the country. The AJK elections, however, remained under intense scrutiny after allegations of irregularities and isolated incidents of violence emerged during polling. Opposition parties accused authorities of interfering in the electoral process, while the ruling coalition exchanged allegations of rigging and misuse of state resources. Human rights organisations also expressed concern over reports of deaths and injuries linked to election-related unrest. They called for transparent and independent investigations into the incidents and stressed that maintaining public order should not come at the expense of fundamental rights, including peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. The elections were held against the backdrop of political unrest that has continued in AJK since last year’s protests over governance reforms and constitutional issues. The controversy surrounding reserved refugee seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly also remained a major political issue during the campaign.

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    PPP to challenge AJK election results over rigging…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has announced that it will challenge the results of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections through legal and constitutional forums, alleging widespread rigging, voter manipulation and administrative interference during the electoral process. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, accompanied by senior PPP leader Chaudhry Yasin, accused the federal government, the AJK Election Commission and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of working together to influence the election outcome. He claimed the electoral process was neither transparent nor impartial and alleged that several complaints submitted by the PPP were ignored by the election authorities. Memon said PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had repeatedly called for free, fair and transparent elections in AJK. He said Bilawal had urged all institutions to protect the democratic process and ensure that the interests of the Kashmiri people remained above political considerations. The PPP leader alleged that the AJK Election Commission failed to perform its constitutional responsibilities fairly. He claimed the commission did not take action on complaints submitted by the party during polling and questioned its impartiality throughout the election process. According to Memon, polling staff and election materials reached several polling stations late, affecting the voting process and creating unnecessary confusion among voters. He also questioned the postponement of polling in constituency LA-27, saying the decision was based on weather conditions despite what he described as clear circumstances. He further alleged that violence and intimidation were reported in several constituencies during polling. Referring to the killing of PPP worker Mukhtar Younis in LA-9 Nikyal, Memon claimed the incident reflected the deteriorating security situation on election day. He also alleged that attacks on PPP workers and political leaders were not properly investigated despite complaints to the relevant authorities. Memon accused authorities of failing to take action against those allegedly involved in election-related violence. He also claimed that PPP workers who reached certain polling stations after receiving reports of irregularities came under fire. The senior minister further alleged that ballot papers had reached some candidates before polling day and claimed there were serious violations during the voting process. He also alleged that voter turnout in one constituency exceeded 100 percent and called on the Election Commission to investigate the matter immediately. He said the PPP would continue to pursue all available legal and constitutional options to challenge the election results. The party, he added, would present evidence before the appropriate forums and seek action against those responsible for the alleged irregularities. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also criticised the conduct of the elections, saying the Election Commission had failed to address complaints raised after the first phase of polling. He maintained that the party reserved the right to demand re-elections in constituencies where it believed the electoral process had been compromised.

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    Security forces intensify K-P anti-terror operatio…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Security forces have stepped up intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign, targeting militant hideouts and disrupting terrorist networks in several areas over the past two months, according to security sources. Officials said one of the major operations was carried out in the Khatti Killi area of North Waziristan, where security forces raided suspected militant hideouts following intelligence reports. During the operation, several terrorists were killed after an exchange of fire, while others sustained injuries and managed to flee. Security sources said troops recovered a large cache of weapons, ammunition and communication equipment from the militants’ hideouts. The recovered material is expected to assist investigators in tracing the activities and support networks of militant groups operating in the region. According to officials, the operations specifically targeted members of Fitna al-Khawarij, the term used by the state for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Authorities said the campaign was conducted with great care to protect civilians and prevent damage to local communities. Security officials emphasised that the ongoing operations are aimed at eliminating terrorist threats, restoring law and order, and ensuring lasting peace across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They reaffirmed that intelligence-led operations would continue until militant networks are dismantled and terrorism is eradicated. The latest operations are part of the broader Azm-e-Istehkam strategy launched to strengthen counterterrorism efforts nationwide. The campaign focuses on targeted intelligence operations against militant groups while enhancing the security of vulnerable areas. Last week, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said security forces had carried out more than 40,000 intelligence-based operations across Pakistan so far this year, with a significant number conducted in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said nearly 194 intelligence-based operations are being conducted daily across the country. According to the military spokesperson, security forces have eliminated more than 2,000 terrorists during 2026, reflecting the intensified pace of counterterrorism operations.

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    Flash flood warning issued for New York, New Jersey

    ByJustpaste.in

    Authorities have issued a flash flood warning for New York City, parts of New Jersey and western Long Island as heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds swept across the region, raising the threat of widespread flooding and travel disruptions. Weather officials warned that intense downpours could quickly overwhelm drainage systems, flood roads and affect low-lying areas. The flash flood warning remained in effect through Monday morning, while a broader flood watch was issued for New York City and northern and central New Jersey until the evening. Forecasters also declared a First Alert Weather Day, citing an elevated risk of flash flooding and severe thunderstorms. Moist and humid air moving into the region is expected to produce rainfall rates of one to three inches per hour, with total rainfall forecast between one and three inches. Some isolated locations could receive even higher amounts, significantly increasing the risk of flooding. In response to the severe weather threat, New York City Emergency Management activated its Flash Flood Emergency Plan. City crews were deployed to clear storm drains and catch basins in flood-prone neighbourhoods, while emergency teams were placed on standby to respond to flooded streets, fallen trees and stranded motorists. Officials warned that severe thunderstorms could also generate damaging wind gusts, increasing the possibility of power outages and hazardous driving conditions throughout the day. Meanwhile, a High Surf Advisory was issued for beaches south of New York City and across Long Island, where waves were expected to reach between six and ten feet. Authorities also warned of a high risk of dangerous rip currents and urged residents and visitors to stay out of the water until conditions improve. Temperatures were expected to remain in the low 80s under mostly cloudy skies. Weather experts forecast that storm activity would gradually weaken by Monday night, bringing an improvement in conditions.