تازہ ترین

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    Afghan resistance launches armed campaign against Taliban

    ByJustpaste.in

    The United Front of Afghanistan has announced the launch of an armed campaign against the Afghan Taliban, marking what it describes as a new phase in its efforts to challenge the Taliban-led administration. The group’s leader, General Sami Sadat, also appealed to the United States, NATO and other members of the international community for political support. In a video message, General Sadat said the resistance movement had formally begun military operations in Kandahar. He described the campaign as an effort to free Afghanistan from Taliban rule and restore stability to the country. Sadat said the group’s military activities are not limited to targeting the Taliban. He claimed that United Front fighters are also operating against Al-Qaeda, Daesh (ISIS) and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), saying these organisations pose a serious threat to Afghanistan and the wider region. He stressed that the resistance movement does not seek conflict with neighbouring countries. According to Sadat, the group’s objective is to establish peaceful relations with Afghanistan’s neighbours and promote regional cooperation. He argued that the Taliban’s policies have created security concerns for neighbouring states, while the United Front aims to contribute to long-term regional stability. General Sadat also pledged that his forces would conduct all military operations in accordance with international law. He said the movement would respect humanitarian principles during its campaign and insisted that it would not seek permission from any foreign country before carrying out its operations. Calling for international engagement, Sadat urged the global community to provide political backing to the resistance movement. He appealed to the United States, NATO and other governments to support what he described as the Afghan people’s struggle for freedom, saying the international community should stand on the “right side of history.” The announcement comes amid continuing political and security tensions in Afghanistan, where anti-Taliban resistance groups have periodically claimed attacks against Taliban positions, particularly in northern and central parts of the country. Despite these claims, the Taliban remain in control of most of Afghanistan and continue to reject the legitimacy of armed opposition groups.

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    Greek wonderkid Karetsas joins Dortmund

    ByJustpaste.in

    Borussia Dortmund have officially confirmed the signing of Konstantinos Karetsas. The young Greek forward joins from Belgian side Genk. He has put pen to paper on a five-year contract. The transfer news broke on Monday. Reports peg the fee at around 30 million euros. That translates to roughly $34 million. Additional bonuses are also included in the package. Karetsas is only 18 years old. But his numbers already speak volumes. He has scored three goals in ten appearances for Greece’s national team. His club form last season was just as impressive. He delivered 11 assists in the Belgian top flight. Dortmund had a clear gap to fill. The club recently lost Julian Brandt. The experienced playmaker left on a free transfer after years of service. His departure left a creative void in midfield. Karetsas now steps in as the man tasked with filling it. The teenager didn’t hold back his excitement after signing. He called Borussia Dortmund a special club. He said he feels proud to wear the black and yellow jersey. Club officials are equally thrilled. Dortmund’s sporting director praised the young forward’s game. He highlighted Karetsas’s technical skill and sharp footballing brain. According to him, the youngster has a real talent for finding quick solutions under pressure. That skill becomes especially valuable in tight spaces near goal. This transfer likely won’t be Dortmund’s last this summer. The club has also shown interest in another rising star. Cologne’s young German international, Said El Mala, is reportedly on their radar too. Context matters here. Dortmund finished last season as runners-up. Bayern Munich once again claimed the title. That gap is clearly on the club’s mind this transfer window. Signing proven young talent like Karetsas suggests a plan to close it. For Karetsas, this move marks a major step in his career. Moving from Belgian football to one of Europe’s most storied clubs is no small leap. Expectations will be high given his price tag and reputation. Dortmund fans will now watch closely to see how quickly he adapts. If his club and international form are any indication, he could become a key piece in Dortmund’s push to reclaim the title next season.

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    Veteran British columnist Rod Liddle dies at 66

    ByJustpaste.in

    Rod Liddle, the outspoken newspaper columnist and broadcaster, has died at the age of 66 following a short illness. He passed away at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough on Sunday evening. Liddle built a long and colourful career in British media. He wrote regular columns for both the Sun and the Sunday Times. He also contributed a weekly column to the Spectator. Beyond print, he hosted a show on Times Radio, reaching audiences across multiple platforms for decades. His children, Wilder, Tyler, and Emmy, shared a heartfelt tribute following his passing. They described feeling shocked and saddened by how suddenly he’d gone. They said their father raised them to be curious, courageous, and quick with humour, just as anyone might expect from him. Even during his final weeks in hospital, they said he stayed remarkably composed. According to his children, he consistently held the room and never let the awful situation show. They spoke of the legacy he left behind, calling him their model for living life fully and fearlessly. Rebekah Brooks, CEO of News UK, also paid tribute to her longtime colleague. She called him an inimitable journalistic force whose influence shaped British journalism for years. Brooks noted that Liddle never shied away from challenging popular opinion. She said his work left a lasting impression on the industry as a whole. She went on to describe him as brilliant and provocative, someone whose wit and fearless commentary became a fixture across News UK’s publications and shows for decades. Brooks added that his absence would be deeply felt, not just by colleagues but by the many readers, listeners, and viewers who followed his work over the years. She extended condolences to his family on behalf of everyone at News UK. Liddle’s career spanned print, radio, and television, and though he was often described as divisive, few would dispute the size of his footprint on British media. His voice, whether praised or criticized, was one that consistently sparked conversation, debate, and reaction across the industry. He leaves behind three children and a body of work that continues to define the sharper, more combative side of British journalism.

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    AJK rejects firing allegations against forces

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has strongly rejected allegations that security forces opened fire on protesters or were responsible for civilian deaths during the recent unrest in Rawalakot, describing the claims as false, unverified and part of an organised disinformation campaign. Responding to a report by the BBC on the recent incidents, the AJK government said armed members of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee opened fire on security personnel in Rawalakot, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several officers. It also alleged that the attackers set multiple vehicles on fire during the violence. According to the government, security forces acted only to maintain law and order and enforce the law, insisting that civilians were not deliberately targeted during the operation. The AJK government cited information from the police spokesperson, who said seven security personnel were killed and 143 others were injured in firing allegedly carried out by armed members of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee. It further claimed that the banned group has a history of violent activities. According to the statement, attacks carried out in 2024 and 2025 resulted in the deaths of four security personnel and left hundreds of others injured. The government also said two individuals arrested on July 28 and 29 were under investigation. It alleged that one of the suspects claimed a reward of Rs10 million had been offered for the killing of each Ranger, raising questions about the possible funding of the group. According to the statement, verified videos show armed individuals linked to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee using modern weapons and firing during the unrest. The AJK government maintained that law enforcement agencies carried out their constitutional responsibilities with restraint and professionalism. It insisted that no action was taken against peaceful civilians and that operations were conducted solely to restore public order. The government also categorically denied allegations of indiscriminate firing, the use of snipers or claims that bodies of victims were withheld from their families. It further alleged that the banned Joint Awami Action Committee had previously been involved in blocking roads, stopping or burning cargo vehicles and disrupting the supply of essential goods. According to the statement, law enforcement agencies made efforts to keep roads open and ensure the uninterrupted movement of essential supplies. The AJK government added that the Joint Awami Action Committee has been declared a banned organisation under the Anti-Terrorism Act and said all legal proceedings against the group are being carried out in accordance with the law.

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    Nawaz urges unity between government, military

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has urged party leaders to avoid any actions or statements that could create the impression of differences between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. According to sources, Nawaz Sharif told senior party members that Pakistan is currently facing significant economic, political and security challenges, making it essential to maintain national stability and institutional harmony. The development came after senior PML-N leaders reportedly conveyed their reservations to Nawaz Sharif regarding recent remarks made by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi about the country’s system. Sources said Nawaz Sharif advised party leaders to exercise restraint and avoid public statements that could fuel unnecessary controversy or create the perception of tensions between key state institutions. He stressed that the country’s national interest requires close coordination and mutual understanding among institutions, particularly at a time when Pakistan is confronting multiple internal and external challenges. According to the sources, Nawaz Sharif emphasised that maintaining harmony between the civilian government and the military leadership is essential for political stability, effective governance and addressing the country’s pressing issues. He urged party leaders to remain focused on national priorities and act responsibly in their public engagements.

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    Pakistan’s IT exports hit record $4.6 billio…

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Pakistan’s information technology (IT) sector achieved a historic milestone in the fiscal year 2025-26, with IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) exports reaching a record $4.6 billion, marking an impressive 21 percent increase from the previous year’s $3.81 billion. Although the sector narrowly missed the government’s $5 billion export target, the achievement reinforces Pakistan’s position as one of the country’s fastest-growing export industries and strengthens its long-term goal of reaching $10 billion in IT exports by FY2028-29. Industry experts believe the strong performance reflects the steady expansion of Pakistan’s digital economy, driven by a growing pool of skilled professionals, rising demand for remote services, improved internet infrastructure and favourable tax incentives. However, they also caution that the sector must overcome structural challenges and shift towards innovation-led growth to sustain momentum. Pakistan is home to more than 600,000 IT professionals and freelancers, alongside tens of thousands of registered software and IT-enabled services companies operating from major technology hubs in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. Secondary cities such as Faisalabad, Sialkot and Sukkur are also emerging as important contributors to the country’s digital workforce. Software development, business process outsourcing (BPO), enterprise technology services, call centres and freelancing remain the backbone of Pakistan’s IT exports. Meanwhile, demand for advanced services including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, cloud computing, automation and digital consulting is expanding rapidly as global businesses seek specialised technology solutions. The United States continues to be Pakistan’s largest export destination for IT services, followed by the United Kingdom, the Gulf region, Europe, Canada and several Asian markets. Experts say significant opportunities remain untapped in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Africa and Central Asia, particularly in high-value technology sectors. Industry leaders stress that Pakistan must diversify both its export markets and service offerings. They argue that relying mainly on traditional software development and low-cost outsourcing will limit future growth, while greater investment in AI-powered solutions, enterprise software, cybersecurity and digital transformation services can significantly increase export earnings. Freelancers have also emerged as a major force in Pakistan’s digital economy, contributing an estimated $1.1 billion, or roughly a quarter of total IT exports, during FY2025-26. Online platforms have enabled thousands of professionals to access global clients, creating new employment opportunities and boosting foreign exchange inflows. Beyond export revenues, the sector continues to generate employment, with thousands of technical positions available across the country. The expansion of remote work has also increased opportunities for women and professionals living outside major urban centres. Experts believe the next phase of growth depends on moving beyond providing outsourced services to creating globally competitive technology products and intellectual property. They argue that Pakistan must position itself as a producer of innovation rather than simply a destination for low-cost software development. The country’s AI ambitions are also gaining momentum. Under the National AI Policy 2025, Pakistan plans to establish AI centres of excellence, launch dedicated funding programmes, expand public-sector AI adoption and train around one million people in AI-related skills by 2030. New AI hubs are also being developed to support startups and accelerate innovation. International partnerships are expected to play a key role in this transformation. Pakistan has strengthened technology cooperation with China through joint AI and IT initiatives and recently became a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO). At the same time, interest from the United States has grown, with American investors pledging more than $20 million for Pakistan’s technology sector during a recent investment conference. Connectivity has also improved through expanded submarine cable capacity, cross-border fibre links and stronger cloud infrastructure, making it easier for local companies to deliver digital services worldwide. Despite the progress, industry stakeholders warn that policy uncertainty, foreign exchange restrictions, internet disruptions, energy costs, weak intellectual property protection and limited access to global payment systems continue to hinder faster growth. They believe addressing these challenges while promoting innovation and AI-driven technologies will be essential if Pakistan hopes to transform its record-breaking IT industry into a global technology powerhouse.

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    Tarar rejects PPP allegations, urges acceptance of…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has rejected the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) allegations of rigging in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections, saying the claims are baseless and unsupported by credible evidence. Speaking at a media briefing in Islamabad, Tarar said political parties have the right to raise concerns about elections, but such allegations should be backed by concrete proof rather than speculation or political statements. He urged the PPP to accept the election results with political maturity and respect the democratic mandate of the people. The minister said political point-scoring is common during election campaigns, but parties should focus on serving the public instead of making accusations without evidence. He maintained that the election results reflected the will of the people and should be accepted by all stakeholders. Responding to criticism from Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Tarar questioned the basis of the PPP’s allegations and asked the party to present evidence if it believed electoral irregularities had occurred. He said making serious accusations without proof damages the democratic process and undermines public confidence in institutions. Tarar said the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir voted for the party that presented a stronger development agenda and remained committed to public welfare. According to him, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) centred its election campaign on development projects, better public services and addressing the needs of the people, which earned the confidence of voters. He also advised the PPP to review its own governance performance instead of blaming others for its electoral defeat. He said political parties should learn from election results and strengthen their public outreach rather than questioning the democratic process without evidence. The information minister said the AJK elections were conducted through a complete democratic process. He noted that voters actively participated in election rallies, corner meetings and polling, reflecting the public’s confidence in the electoral system. Tarar recalled that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had congratulated the PPP after its victory in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections, describing it as an example of democratic values, political tolerance and respect for the public mandate. He said all political parties should demonstrate the same spirit by accepting election outcomes gracefully. The minister added that the PML-N leadership, including party president Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, ran a united and well-organised campaign in AJK. He said the coordinated campaign and focus on development helped the party secure widespread public support. His remarks came after PPP leaders announced that they would challenge the AJK election results through constitutional and legal forums, alleging widespread irregularities during the polling process. The PPP has demanded investigations and re-elections in constituencies where it believes electoral violations took place.

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    Newcastle complete signing of goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Braga

    ByJustpaste.in

    Newcastle, currently without a permanent manager, announced Monday that they have signed Czech Republic goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese club Braga. Hornicek has agreed to a five year contract after Newcastle triggered his 30 million euro release clause, a fee equivalent to roughly 25.7 million pounds or 34.6 million dollars. He becomes the club’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window. The 24 year old, who is expected to challenge Nick Pope for the starting goalkeeper role, described the past few days as an emotional experience since first learning of the move, and said he is thrilled to have completed the transfer. He said he is aware of Newcastle’s reputation as a major football city, pointing to the roughly 52,000 fans who fill St James’ Park and create an atmosphere he said pushes the team in every match, adding that he is eager to play in front of them. Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson said Hornicek has firmly established himself as one of the top young goalkeepers in Europe. The signing comes during a turbulent period for the club. Eddie Howe stepped down as Newcastle manager last week after five years in charge, following a difficult campaign that saw the team finish 12th in the Premier League. The club has also faced a challenging summer transfer window on other fronts. Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali has completed a move to Tottenham, while England forward Anthony Gordon has departed for Barcelona. Captain Bruno Guimaraes has also been strongly linked with a switch to Premier League champions Arsenal. Newcastle will open their Premier League season at home against Liverpool on August 23.

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    Auqib Nabi earns maiden India call-up as replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah

    ByJustpaste.in

    Right-arm pacer Auqib Nabi has been added to India’s squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, replacing injured fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. The series begins in Galle on August 15, followed by a second Test in Colombo on August 23. It marks India’s first assignment in the World Cup Test Championship cycle since a 2-0 home defeat to South Africa in 2025. Auqib, a tall right-arm quick from Jammu and Kashmir, earns his first national call-up after strong performances in domestic cricket. He topped the wicket-taking charts in India’s premier first-class competition, the Ranji Trophy, across the past two seasons. He played a central role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy title win, taking 60 wickets in 17 innings during that campaign, an effort that earned him the player of the tournament award. He also featured for India A against Sri Lanka A during a recently concluded tour, picking up six wickets across two four-day matches. Should he make his Test debut in the upcoming series, Auqib would become the first cricketer from Jammu to represent India in the format. Across his first-class career, Auqib has taken 162 wickets in 43 matches at an average of 18.63, including four ten-wicket hauls in a match and 16 five-wicket innings hauls. Bumrah, meanwhile, has been ruled out after failing to recover in time from a left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England. He had originally been named in India’s squad for the Sri Lanka tour before the setback. His workload has been closely monitored since he suffered a back injury during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, and the recent ODI series against England marked his first appearance in the format since the 2023 World Cup final. India’s updated squad for the Sri Lanka Tests reads: Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), B Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, Devdutt Padikkal and Saransh Jain.

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    No date finalised for renewed US-Iran talks, sources say

    ByJustpaste.in

    Efforts to revive direct negotiations between the United States and Iran are continuing through diplomatic channels, but no date or venue has been finalised for the next round of talks, according to informed sources. The sources said discussions are ongoing with the help of mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, who are working with both Washington and Tehran to arrange a fresh round of negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and restoring dialogue after months of conflict. Officials familiar with the process said there is currently no scheduled meeting between American and Iranian negotiators in Islamabad. They added that both Islamabad and Doha remain possible venues for future talks, although no final decision has been made. According to the sources, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is expected to visit Tehran in the coming days to discuss diplomatic efforts and explore ways to help restart negotiations between the two countries. Diplomatic contacts between the two sides have reportedly continued despite recent hostilities, with mediators exchanging messages in an effort to revive dialogue under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year. The sources said both countries are expected to begin with indirect discussions through mediators before moving to direct negotiations. The initial phase is likely to focus on maintaining the current reduction in hostilities and building mutual confidence rather than addressing Iran’s nuclear programme. One of the main issues expected to dominate future discussions is the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway through which a significant share of the world’s oil supply passes. Mediators are reportedly working on proposals to ensure safe maritime navigation and reduce tensions in the Gulf. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said there are currently no direct negotiations taking place with the United States. Iranian officials confirmed that Tehran is engaged in discussions with Oman regarding a temporary maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz but stressed that these talks should not be interpreted as an agreement to fully reopen the strategic waterway. Iran also maintained that any broader agreement would depend on changes in the regional security situation and an end to what it described as continued US pressure. Regional tensions remained high as Iranian media reported that the country’s Revolutionary Guard had shot down a US MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Strait of Hormuz. Separately, several oil tankers reportedly changed their shipping routes to avoid potential security threats near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, increasing transportation costs for energy shipments. At the same time, Israel launched military exercises involving naval and ground forces, saying the drills had been planned in advance. Israeli forces also continued military operations in southern Lebanon, while cross-border tensions remained elevated despite an existing ceasefire. US President Donald Trump recently said he had postponed a planned military strike against Iran after receiving requests from regional countries to allow more time for diplomacy. He expressed hope that negotiations could eventually lead to agreements on the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional security issues.