تازہ ترین

  • |

    White House considers removing top DC prosecutor over dropped monument case

    ByJustpaste.in

    US President Donald Trump is contemplating the dismissal of Jeanine Pirro from her position as US Attorney for the District of Columbia following her department’s move to abandon the criminal prosecution related to damage at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The decision by federal prosecutors to drop charges against former Olympian David Hearn came after evidence revealed the peeling liner stemmed from a rushed, substandard renovation rather than criminal intent. Trump reportedly felt caught unawares by the court submission, publicly rebuking Pirro for backing down under judicial pressure and claiming she buckled during proceedings. In defence of her office’s actions, Pirro explained that crucial documentation regarding the botched installation was withheld by the Department of the Interior until after the original indictment had been filed. Conversely, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum disputed this account, continuing to insist that intentional destruction caused the damage. Formal dismissal of the charges against Hearn remains pending before the court.

  • |

    Romanian forces execute controlled detonation on Danube to safeguard nuclear energy supply

    ByJustpaste.in

    Romanian naval forces detonated 180 kilogrammes of explosives to clear a massive rock obstruction in the drought-stricken Danube River, attempting to channel essential cooling water towards the country’s sole remaining functional nuclear reactor at Cernavoda. The blast was designed to clear the riverbed and facilitate the construction of a temporary dam to boost water volume heading to the facility. The intervention follows Romania’s declaration of a nationwide state of emergency for August after record-low water levels forced one reactor to shut down entirely. Romanian Defence Minister Radu Miruta defended the costs of the operation, emphasising that maintaining operational capacity at the facility even for a few additional days far outweighs the financial expenditure. Regional energy strains are mounting simultaneously in neighbouring Hungary, where severe water depletion at the Paks nuclear power station has drastically cut output. Prime Minister Peter Magyar warned that a complete plant shutdown could occur next week without weather relief, urging regional coordination and energy restraint to avoid a wider crisis as low rainfall continues across Eastern Europe.

  • |

    West Indies post 344 as Sajid Khan shines, Pakistan face must-win Test

    ByJustpaste.in

    PORT OF SPAIN: Pakistan’s hopes of leveling the two-match Test series remain alive after restricting the West Indies to 344 all out on the opening innings of the second Test, thanks largely to an impressive four-wicket haul from off-spinner Sajid Khan. After winning the toss at Port of Spain, West Indies captain Roston Chase opted to bat first, a decision that paid dividends as his side produced several valuable partnerships to build a competitive first-innings total. Middle-order batter Justin Greaves led the resistance with a composed 73, while captain Chase contributed a determined 70 to anchor the innings. Opener Brandon King added 46, with Shai Hope making 29 and Amir Jangoo chipping in with 26. Pakistan’s bowlers, however, fought back effectively after the hosts appeared set for an even bigger total. Sajid Khan emerged as the standout performer, using sharp turn and disciplined lines to finish with four wickets and halt West Indies’ progress at crucial moments. Fast bowlers Obaid Shah, Mohammad Ali and Ali Usman also made significant contributions, claiming two wickets each to ensure the home side was bowled out for 344. Speaking at the toss, Pakistan captain Babar Azam revealed that he would also have chosen to bat first had he won the toss. He expressed confidence in his squad, saying the team was determined to play positive cricket and bounce back strongly after losing the opening Test. On the other hand, Roston Chase said his team wanted to turn its home ground into a fortress and therefore retained the same playing XI for the crucial encounter. The second Test carries enormous significance for Pakistan, who trail 1-0 in the two-match series. A victory is essential to square the series, while another defeat would hand the West Indies an emphatic series triumph. With the hosts setting a challenging target of 344 in the first innings, all eyes are now on Pakistan’s batting lineup. The visitors will need a disciplined and resilient performance to seize control of the contest and keep their hopes of salvaging the series alive.

  • | | | | |

    Israel won’t leave Gaza until Hamas disarms, Pea…

    ByJustpaste.in

    JERUSALEM: Israeli forces will not withdraw from the Gaza Strip until Hamas is fully disarmed, according to Nikolay Mladenov, following high-level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The remarks came after a meeting in West Jerusalem between Mladenov, who heads the US-backed Board of Peace, and Netanyahu, where the two sides discussed the future of Gaza, regional security and the implementation of a proposed peace framework. According to a statement issued by the Board of Peace, reports suggesting that Israel had agreed to withdraw from Gaza before Hamas is disarmed are inaccurate. The organization stressed that the Israeli military’s withdrawal would only take place once Hamas had surrendered all of its weapons, including both light and heavy arms, and dismantled its network of underground tunnels. “The objective is clear and leaves no room for ambiguity,” the Board of Peace said in a statement shared on social media. It added that the long-term goal is the complete removal of weapons from the Gaza Strip and the transition toward civilian governance capable of maintaining stability and security. The meeting also highlighted concerns raised by Israeli political leaders regarding the peace initiative recently announced by the US president. While details of the proposal have not been fully disclosed, Israeli officials reportedly voiced reservations about aspects of the plan during discussions with Mladenov. Meanwhile, Hamas rejected the latest position, insisting that implementation of any agreement would remain impossible unless Israel fulfills its own obligations under the proposed framework. The group argued that both parties must comply with agreed commitments for any lasting ceasefire or political settlement to succeed. According to a news agency report citing two people familiar with the discussions, Mladenov also urged Netanyahu to halt Israeli military operations in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of reducing violence and creating conditions for diplomatic progress. Despite a ceasefire announced in October 2025, Israeli military operations in Gaza have continued, with both sides accusing each other of violating understandings reached under previous agreements. The continued fighting has complicated international efforts to revive negotiations and address the humanitarian situation in the territory. The latest statements underscore the deep divisions that continue to hinder peace efforts, with disarmament, security guarantees and governance remaining among the most contentious issues in negotiations over Gaza’s future.

  • | | |

    President Zardari hails Police martyrs’ sacr…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has paid glowing tribute to Pakistan’s police martyrs, describing their courage, unwavering commitment and ultimate sacrifices as a source of immense pride for the nation. In his message on Police Martyrs’ Day, the president praised law enforcement personnel for standing on the front lines against terrorism and organized crime, saying their bravery has played a vital role in safeguarding the country’s peace and stability. President Zardari said the sacrifices made by police officers in the fight against terrorists and their foreign-backed supporters would always be remembered. He noted that countless officers had laid down their lives while protecting citizens, defending the rule of law and ensuring national security. Highlighting the force’s professional achievements, the president said police departments across Pakistan had successfully disrupted terrorist plots and dismantled criminal networks through intelligence-based operations, dedication and professional expertise. He added that their services continue to strengthen public confidence in the country’s security institutions. The president reserved special praise for the police forces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, acknowledging their exceptional courage in confronting terrorism under extremely challenging conditions. He said officers in both provinces have consistently demonstrated resilience and extraordinary commitment despite facing significant risks. President Zardari also expressed solidarity with the families of fallen police personnel, saying the nation salutes their patience, perseverance and strength. He stressed that supporting the families of police martyrs is a shared responsibility of both the state and society, adding that their welfare and well-being must remain a national priority. Emphasizing the need for stronger law enforcement institutions, the president said the government would continue efforts to modernize the police through improved training, advanced technology and better operational resources. He noted that equipping officers with modern tools and professional skills is essential for effectively responding to evolving security challenges. The message comes as Pakistan continues to face security threats in several regions, where police personnel remain actively engaged in counterterrorism operations alongside other security agencies. The president said the bravery and sacrifices of police officers serve as a lasting reminder of their dedication to protecting the nation. Police Martyrs’ Day is observed across Pakistan each year to honor officers who lost their lives in the line of duty and to recognize the invaluable contributions of law enforcement personnel in maintaining peace, public safety and the rule of law.

  • |

    Pakistan’s Nasir Iqbal reaches International Squash final

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Pakistan’s Nasir Iqbal delivered a commanding performance to secure a place in the final of the PN Fleet Club Open International Squash Championship, keeping the country’s title hopes alive with a convincing straight-games victory in the semi-finals. Competing at the Pakistan Navy Roshan Khan-Jahangir Khan Squash Complex, Nasir outclassed Egypt’s Yase Al Shafe in an impressive display that lasted just 24 minutes. The Pakistani star dominated throughout the contest, winning 11-5, 11-7 and 11-5 to book his spot in Tuesday’s final. Nasir looked in complete control from the opening game, combining aggressive shot-making with precise movement around the court. His clinical performance left his Egyptian opponent with little opportunity to recover, underlining the form that has made him one of Pakistan’s standout performers in the tournament. The victory has raised hopes of another international title for Pakistan, with Nasir now just one win away from lifting the prestigious trophy. In the other semi-final, Pakistan’s Asim Khan saw his campaign come to an end after suffering a 3-1 defeat against Egypt’s Salman Khalil. Despite a determined effort, Asim was unable to overcome the Egyptian player, who advanced to set up a final showdown with Nasir Iqbal. The championship, organized by the Sindh Squash Association, has attracted top international players and carries a prize purse of $41,000, making it one of the region’s significant squash events. The final is scheduled to be played on Tuesday at 4:00 pm, where Nasir will aim to cap his outstanding run with the championship title. His impressive form throughout the tournament has generated excitement among Pakistani squash fans, who are hoping to see another memorable triumph on home soil. With confidence high and momentum firmly on his side, Nasir Iqbal now stands on the brink of adding another major international achievement to Pakistan’s rich squash legacy.

  • |

    Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 likely to be held in UAE

    ByJustpaste.in

    DUBAI: The Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 is expected to be staged in the United Arab Emirates, with participating teams reportedly being informally notified about the tournament window ahead of the official announcement by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). According to cricket media reports, the ACC is expected to confirm both the venue and the complete schedule in the coming days. The tournament is likely to run from August 28 to September 13, featuring eight of Asia’s leading women’s cricket teams. The competing nations are expected to include Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, Thailand and hosts UAE, promising an exciting contest as teams battle for continental supremacy ahead of future ICC events. The UAE has emerged as the frontrunner to host the tournament due to its world-class cricket infrastructure, favorable playing conditions and extensive experience in organizing major international events. Several global tournaments have previously been held in the Emirates, making it a reliable venue for multinational competitions. The tournament is expected to showcase some of Asia’s biggest women’s cricket stars, with traditional rivals Pakistan and India likely to attract significant attention if they meet during the competition. Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has already announced India’s squad for the tournament. Veteran batter Harmanpreet Kaur will continue to lead the Indian side as captain, reflecting the board’s confidence in her leadership and experience. Other participating teams are also expected to finalize and announce their squads in the coming weeks as preparations gather pace. With the official schedule still awaited, anticipation continues to build among cricket fans across Asia. The Women’s Asia Cup is regarded as one of the region’s premier tournaments and provides teams with valuable international competition while helping them prepare for upcoming global events. If confirmed, the UAE will once again become the center of Asian cricket, hosting another high-profile tournament that promises thrilling matches, emerging talent and intense regional rivalries.

  • |

    Pakistan appoint Michael Smith as batting coach

    ByJustpaste.in

    LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former South African first-class cricketer Michael Smith as the national team’s new batting coach on a two-year contract, reinforcing the coaching setup ahead of a crucial international season. Smith, 46, will work with both Pakistan’s red-ball and white-ball squads, with his first assignment set to be the upcoming three-match Test series against England, which begins on August 19. The PCB officially confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, expressing confidence that Smith’s extensive coaching background and international experience will strengthen Pakistan’s batting unit across all formats. During his playing career, Smith scored 7,029 runs across first-class, List A and T20 cricket. He also registered nine centuries and 40 half-centuries, establishing himself as a consistent performer in South Africa’s domestic circuit. Beyond his playing achievements, Smith is regarded as an experienced coach with a Level 4 coaching qualification, one of the highest coaching certifications in cricket. He has previously worked with multiple HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises, giving him valuable insight into Pakistan’s cricketing environment and many of the country’s leading players. His coaching résumé also includes roles as batting coach for Australia’s Hobart Hurricanes and Cricket Tasmania, where he earned recognition for developing players and improving batting performances. Smith’s appointment comes at an important time for Pakistan, with the national side preparing for a challenging home Test series against England. The PCB hopes his expertise will help address batting inconsistencies and strengthen the team’s performance in both Test and limited-overs cricket. Pakistan will begin their three-match Test series against England on August 19, with Smith expected to join the squad during its pre-series training camp. The appointment reflects the PCB’s continued focus on building a strong coaching structure as the team prepares for a packed international calendar. Fans will now be eager to see whether the experienced South African can make an immediate impact and help Pakistan’s batters deliver more consistent performances on the international stage.

  • |

    Pakistan’s Ehsanullah Mehsud wins Taekwondo gold at the Thailand International Taekwondo Championship

    ByJustpaste.in

    BANGKOK: Pakistan celebrated another proud moment on the international sporting stage as taekwondo athlete Ehsanullah Mehsud captured the gold medal at the Thailand International Taekwondo Championship after an impressive run through the competition. Mehsud sealed the title with a commanding victory over his Sri Lankan opponent in the final, completing an unbeaten campaign that showcased his skill, determination and consistency against top regional competitors. The Pakistani fighter began his journey with a confident win over a competitor from Kazakhstan in the opening round, setting the tone for an outstanding tournament. He then produced one of his best performances in the semi-finals by defeating an Indian opponent to secure a place in the championship match. Carrying that momentum into the final, Mehsud delivered another composed display to overcome the Sri Lankan contender and clinch the coveted gold medal for Pakistan. Speaking after his victory, Mehsud thanked the people of Pakistan for their prayers and unwavering support throughout the tournament. He dedicated his gold medal to the nation, saying the encouragement he received from fans inspired him to perform at his best on the international stage. “I am grateful for the love, prayers and motivation from the people of Pakistan. This gold medal belongs to the entire nation,” he said after the medal ceremony. The achievement drew widespread praise from across the country. Provincial Assembly member Asif Mehsud congratulated the athlete, saying his remarkable performance had brought pride to both Pakistan and Waziristan by raising the country’s flag on the international stage. Recognizing his success, Asif Mehsud also announced a job for the newly crowned champion, describing the gold medal as a reward for years of dedication and hard work. The latest triumph adds to Pakistan’s growing list of achievements in international taekwondo and highlights the emergence of talented athletes capable of competing successfully on the global stage. Sports enthusiasts hope Mehsud’s victory will inspire more young athletes to pursue martial arts and represent Pakistan with distinction in future international competitions.

  • |

    Bangladesh seeks India’s clarification over Hasina speech

    ByJustpaste.in

    DHAKA: Bangladesh has asked India to clarify its position over a planned virtual address by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, saying political activities by a fugitive could undermine efforts to improve relations between the two neighboring countries. The request comes ahead of an event scheduled for August 5 in New Delhi, where Hasina is expected to deliver a video address alongside her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, during a programme organized by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia. Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said Dhaka is committed to strengthening ties with India but believes New Delhi should clearly explain its stance regarding political activities by individuals wanted by Bangladeshi authorities. She said Bangladesh has repeatedly expressed concerns over Hasina and other leaders of the Awami League making political statements while residing in India. According to the minister, Dhaka does not want such activities to negatively affect the progress made in bilateral relations. The minister noted that the event is not being organized by the Indian government but added that Bangladesh is prepared to raise the matter through diplomatic channels if required. India’s Ministry of External Affairs had not issued an official response to the remarks at the time of reporting. Relations between Bangladesh and India have remained under strain since Hasina left Bangladesh in August 2024 following a student-led uprising that ended her tenure in office. Although both countries have recently indicated a willingness to rebuild diplomatic engagement, the issue of Hasina’s stay in India continues to be a sensitive matter. Bangladesh has formally requested Hasina’s extradition to face legal proceedings. In 2025, she was sentenced to death in absentia over crimes against humanity linked to the 2024 crackdown on anti-government protests. Hasina has rejected the verdict, describing it as politically motivated and without legal validity. Despite the legal cases against her, Hasina has said she intends to return to Bangladesh in the future, while her planned virtual appearance has once again brought the issue of her presence in India into the diplomatic spotlight.