تازہ ترین

  • | | |

    Pakistan rejects EU GSP+ report, defends reform re…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan has expressed disappointment over the European Union’s latest assessment of the country’s performance under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), saying the report does not accurately reflect the scale of reforms implemented over the past several years. Speaking during the weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan appreciates that the report acknowledges the country’s legislative progress and continued implementation of the 27 international conventions linked to the GSP+ programme. However, he said the overall assessment presents an unbalanced picture by placing greater emphasis on areas where progress has been slower while overlooking broader reforms. Andrabi said Pakistan has introduced wide-ranging legal, administrative, and institutional reforms since joining the GSP+ scheme in 2014. He maintained that these reforms have strengthened governance, improved labour protections, promoted human rights, and supported sustainable economic development. The spokesperson described GSP+ as one of the most important pillars of Pakistan’s economic partnership with the European Union. He said the preferential trade arrangement has played a significant role in boosting exports, creating employment opportunities, increasing women’s participation in the workforce, reducing poverty, and supporting economic growth. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to constructive dialogue with the European Commission and other European institutions. According to Andrabi, the government remains fully committed to implementing international conventions and continuing reforms aimed at meeting its obligations under the GSP+ framework. He also highlighted that Pakistan’s cooperation with the European Union extends beyond trade. Both sides continue to work together in areas including climate resilience, migration, regional security, counterterrorism, development, connectivity, education, and economic cooperation. During the same briefing, the Foreign Office also rejected allegations made in a recent Amnesty International report regarding Pakistani military strikes in Kabul earlier this year. Andrabi said Pakistan completely rejects the claims, arguing that the report contains serious allegations without credible evidence. He maintained that any military action taken by Pakistan was carried out solely in self-defence and targeted terrorist hideouts and logistical facilities. He said the operations were conducted only after other options had been exhausted and fully complied with the principles of necessity, distinction, proportionality, and precaution under international law. He added that Pakistan exercised restraint despite facing repeated cross-border terrorist attacks. The spokesperson urged the international community to focus greater attention on militant groups operating from Afghan territory. He said organisations such as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), and other affiliated groups continue to maintain bases and carry out attacks against Pakistan from across the border. Andrabi called on the Afghan Taliban authorities to fulfil their international commitments by preventing terrorist organisations from using Afghan territory for attacks against neighbouring countries. He said the continued presence of militant groups poses a serious threat to regional peace and security. The Foreign Office reiterated that Pakistan reserves the right to take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of its citizens. Andrabi said no responsible state can ignore repeated attacks on its people and security forces.

  • |

    Babar, Shaheen climb in latest ICC ODI rankings

    ByJustpaste.in

    Several Pakistan cricketers have improved their positions in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, with former captain Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi making notable gains following recent international matches. Babar Azam climbed one place in the ODI batting rankings and is now sixth with 689 rating points. The experienced batter continues to be Pakistan’s highest-ranked player among ODI batters and remains among the world’s leading performers in the format. Pakistan’s ODI captain Salman Ali Agha also registered progress in the latest rankings. He moved up two places to 16th after consistent performances, taking his rating to 630 points and strengthening his position among the world’s top batters. Former captain and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan retained his 31st position with 560 rating points, while opening batter Fakhar Zaman slipped one place to 37th. Young opener Saim Ayub remained unchanged in 44th position. New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell continues to lead the ICC ODI batting rankings. India captain Shubman Gill occupies second place, while veteran batter Virat Kohli remains third. In the bowling rankings, Pakistan left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi climbed two places to seventh with 604 rating points after his recent performances. Fast bowler Haris Rauf also improved his standing, moving up two positions to 20th with 556 points. On the other hand, pacer Naseem Shah dropped two places and is now ranked 49th with 477 points. Mohammad Wasim Jr gained one position to move up to 70th, while spinner Mohammad Nawaz retained his place in the rankings. Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan continues to hold the number one position in the ICC ODI bowling rankings. Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed remains second, maintaining pressure on the Afghan star. England fast bowler Jofra Archer moved into third place after improving his ranking.

  • |

    What was their crime? 120 children killed in school strike

    ByJustpaste.in

    A devastating missile strike on a primary school in the southern Iranian city of Minab has claimed the lives of 156 people, including 120 children, making it one of the deadliest civilian incidents of the recent conflict involving Iran. The attack took place on February 28 during the opening hours of the military confrontation. The school was operating normally when explosions struck the area, causing large sections of the building to collapse and trapping students and teachers beneath the rubble. According to survivors, children had gathered inside the school for morning prayers because it was the holy month of Ramadan. Shortly after classes began, school authorities decided to dismiss students as reports of nearby explosions emerged. Before many children could leave the premises, another powerful strike directly hit the school building. Teachers who survived the attack described scenes of panic and destruction. They said the explosion threw students and staff across classrooms while thick smoke quickly filled the building, making it difficult to breathe or see. Parts of the school collapsed within seconds, leaving many children trapped. Emergency rescue teams rushed to the scene soon after the explosions. Rescue workers spent hours searching through damaged classrooms and collapsed concrete in an attempt to find survivors. However, many victims had already lost their lives before rescuers arrived. Officials involved in the rescue operation said the destruction was so severe that several victims could only be identified through clothing, shoes, or personal belongings. Families gathered outside the school in desperate search of their children as rescue efforts continued. The tragedy has left the entire community in mourning. Parents and relatives continue visiting the cemetery where many of the students and teachers have been buried. Families say they are still struggling to cope with the loss of children who had simply gone to school for their education. The school was located next to a compound associated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Satellite images and independent analysis indicate that military facilities in the neighbouring compound were also struck during the attack. Reports citing officials familiar with the investigation suggest the strike may have resulted from outdated intelligence that mistakenly identified the school area as part of a military target. However, no official conclusion has been released, and investigations into the incident are still ongoing. Iranian authorities insist the school had been operating as a civilian educational institution for years and reject suggestions that it was part of any military facility. They have repeatedly highlighted the attack as evidence of the heavy civilian toll caused by the conflict. The incident has intensified international concern over civilian protection during military operations. Human rights advocates and legal experts have called for a transparent and independent investigation to determine responsibility and examine whether international humanitarian law was violated. The strike has also renewed global debate over the accuracy of military intelligence, the protection of schools in conflict zones, and the need to safeguard civilians during armed confrontations.

  • | |

    Three accused in doctor Akash murder case eliminat…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Three suspects arrested in the murder case of young doctor Akash were killed during a police operation in Karachi after an alleged exchange of fire between law enforcement officials and criminal suspects. According to the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), the incident took place in Umar Brohi Goth area of Gulshan-e-Maymar. Police officials said the arrested suspects had provided information about their escaped accomplices, following which a raid was carried out to arrest the remaining members of the group. During the operation, the alleged criminals opened fire on police teams. Officials said a police officer was also injured in the firing. The SIU claimed that the three suspects already arrested in connection with Dr Akash’s murder were killed after being hit by bullets fired by their own accomplices during the clash. The case relates to a robbery incident in Karachi’s Clifton area on July 13. Dr Akash was killed when armed suspects opened fire outside a bank during a cash-snatching attempt. Police said the suspects had targeted people carrying large amounts of cash. During the incident, the criminals allegedly took away Rs25 million from a total amount of Rs50 million withdrawn from the bank. Investigators later found that the suspects arrested in the case were allegedly involved in other criminal activities, including robberies outside banks and attacks on traders in Karachi. The police investigation also revealed the possible involvement of an unidentified woman in the robbery case. Officials said further investigation was being carried out to determine her role and identify other members of the criminal network. Authorities said efforts are continuing to trace the remaining suspects linked to the gang. The police have vowed to take action against individuals involved in organised street crimes and cash robbery incidents across the city.

  • | |

    Sherry Rehman accuses India of using flood situati…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Sherry Rehman has criticised India’s water policies, accusing New Delhi of using the flood situation as a tool of “water aggression” against Pakistan. In a statement, Sherry Rehman said India was adopting a contradictory approach by threatening to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty while also releasing floodwater towards Pakistan. She claimed that India opened the gates of the Salal Dam, putting millions of Pakistanis at risk of flooding. She stressed that river water management should be handled responsibly and should not become a source of conflict between the two countries. The senator said India’s alleged failure to provide timely information about water flows had created uncertainty, particularly regarding the flow of the Chenab River. She warned that sudden changes in the river’s water levels could affect Pakistan’s irrigation system and agriculture. The Chenab River supports millions of acres of farmland in Punjab, and any unexpected increase or decrease in water flow could damage crops and impact farmers’ livelihoods. Sherry Rehman said Pakistan’s agricultural economy depends heavily on the proper management of river systems. She added that uncertain water policies could increase risks for farmers and create challenges for the country’s water security. She urged India to respect existing water agreements and follow international commitments. She said western rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be diverted, stored, or transferred in a manner that affects Pakistan’s water supply.

  • | |

    Dar holds key talks with Australia, Oman on region…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held important diplomatic meetings in Manila during the ASEAN Regional Forum 2026, discussing regional security, global developments, and ways to strengthen Pakistan’s relations with other countries. Dar met Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong and reviewed the current state of Pakistan-Australia relations. Both sides agreed to further expand cooperation through regular high-level contacts and closer engagement. The two foreign ministers also discussed recent regional tensions and international challenges. They stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law are essential for achieving long-term peace and stability. Australia appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to support dialogue and reduce tensions in the region. Both countries agreed to continue cooperation on matters of mutual interest. During another meeting, Dar held talks with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. The two leaders expressed satisfaction over the positive progress in Pakistan-Oman relations and agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation. The discussions focused on increasing trade, promoting investment, improving business-to-business links, expanding people-to-people contacts, and enhancing cooperation through international forums. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments. They emphasised the need to uphold ceasefires, respect international law, and work together to promote peace and security. Oman praised Pakistan’s constructive role in encouraging dialogue and supporting regional stability. The two ministers agreed to remain in close communication on important issues. Earlier in Manila, Dar also met senior officials of the Asian Development Bank and called for faster progress on financing for Pakistan’s Main Line-1 railway project. He highlighted the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the development institution and discussed expanding cooperation in different sectors. Dar also held separate meetings with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rehman. The discussions covered bilateral relations, trade, energy cooperation, connectivity, and future diplomatic engagement. The ASEAN Regional Forum has brought together foreign ministers and senior officials from several countries to discuss major global and regional challenges, including security issues, energy supplies, trade, food security, and ongoing conflicts.

  • | |

    Taylor Swift fans celebrate Folklore’s sixth anniversary

    ByJustpaste.in

    Taylor Swift fans across the globe are celebrating a major musical milestone today, marking exactly six years since the pop superstar shocked the entertainment world with the surprise release of her critically acclaimed eighth studio album, Folklore. ​Dropped with less than 24 hours’ notice on July 24, 2020, during the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, Folklore represented a massive sonic pivot for the artist. Trading her signature upbeat stadium-pop sound for moody, atmospheric indie-folk production, Swift collaborated remotely with Aaron Dessner of The National and Jack Antonoff to craft an introspective record that deeply resonated with a worldwide audience isolated in quarantine. ​Fans, affectionately known as Swifties, flooded social media platforms to commemorate the six-year anniversary. Trending hashtags such as #6YearsOfFolklore dominated platforms like X and TikTok, with fans sharing favorite tracks, elaborate lyric deep-dives, and emotional personal stories of how the melancholic album provided a much-needed sense of comfort and escapism during the unprecedented uncertainty of 2020. Popular tracks like “August,” “Cardigan,” and the haunting Bon Iver collaboration “Exile” saw a significant surge in streaming numbers as dedicated listeners revisited the album’s rich, fictional storytelling. ​Beyond its massive fan reception, Folklore proved to be both a commercial juggernaut and a towering critical triumph. The 16-track project famously secured the prestigious Album of the Year award at the 2021 Grammy Awards, making Swift the first female artist in music history to win the industry’s top prize three times. Music critics widely regard the atmospheric record as a definitive turning point in Swift’s lengthy career, brilliantly showcasing her evolution from an autobiographical pop star to a masterful, imaginative storyteller capable of weaving complex, character-driven narratives. ​The six-year milestone coincides with Swift’s ongoing global dominance. As her monumental Eras Tour continues to shatter box office records worldwide, the Folklore “era” remains a central and highly anticipated segment of her three-hour live shows. During the tour, Swift famously performs tracks from the album on a moss-covered cabin set, visually recreating the rustic cottagecore aesthetic that defined the celebrated release. ​Swift’s official management team, Taylor Nation, joined the vibrant online celebration by posting nostalgic tributes and behind-the-scenes glimpses from the album’s minimalist, self-styled photoshoot. As fans continue to spin their vinyl records and stream the haunting melodies of Folklore, the six-year anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of how a quiet, quarantine-born project fundamentally reshaped the trajectory of one of the biggest careers in modern history, firmly cementing Taylor Swift’s enduring legacy as a generational songwriter.

  • | |

    Lee Andrews’ father freed from Dubai prison

    ByJustpaste.in

    The father of Katie Price’s estranged husband, Lee Andrews, has reportedly been released from Dubai’s Al Awir Central Prison after being briefly detained alongside his son on fraud and financial debt allegations, according to local reports. ​The elder Andrews was taken into custody earlier this month after becoming embroiled in the complex web of financial and legal disputes surrounding his son in the United Arab Emirates. The dramatic arrest meant both father and son were simultaneously held inside the high-security Dubai correctional facility, which frequently detains foreign nationals involved in civil and criminal litigation. ​While details regarding the exact terms of his release remain limited, sources indicate that the elder Andrews was freed after authorities resolved his preliminary processing matters and cleared his immediate detention status. However, Lee Andrews remains behind bars as he works to secure the substantial funds required to clear multiple outstanding financial judgments and legal claims lodged against him in the UAE. ​The ongoing legal saga initially made international headlines after British media personality and model Katie Price launched a public search for Andrews, whom she married in January following a whirlwind 15-day romance. Andrews had mysteriously disappeared while attempting to travel to the United Kingdom, leading Price and his family to express fears that he had been kidnapped on suspicion of espionage. However, UAE authorities later confirmed that Andrews had been arrested over unpaid civil debts and alleged business fraud. ​Court records and insider reports reveal that Andrews faces multiple legal proceedings in Dubai, including a dispute with a local car rental agency over an unpaid bill exceeding 266,000 dirhams (approximately £54,000), alongside thousands in unpaid legal fees owed to a UAE law firm. Additional allegations involve an unpaid £140,000 court fine and claims from international investors alleging fraudulent property schemes. ​Despite remaining incarcerated, Andrews has reportedly assured fellow inmates that his release is imminent once his legal team finishes processing financial settlements with creditors. Meanwhile, Price—who recently traveled to Dubai to visit him behind bars—has publicly refused to assist him financially or set up crowdfunding campaigns to cover his debts. ​Friends close to the former glamour model indicate that she is growing increasingly frustrated by the mounting legal drama, with reports suggesting she is considering formal divorce proceedings once Andrews’ legal issues in the Emirates are fully resolved.

  • |

    Trump’s look-alike spotted behind president sparks internet frenzy

    ByJustpaste.in

    President Donald Trump has a doppelganger, and the internet can not stop talking about it. A mystery man bearing a striking resemblance to Trump has gone viral online. His face does not actually look like Trump’s but his height, posture, and signature style all seem to match perfectly. The clip first caught attention during a World Cup event. Trump was speaking to reporters about the tournament’s final and oddly enough, his words were not what stole the spotlight. It was the man standing behind him who grabbed everyone’s focus. Jon Stewart picked up on the moment during a segment on The Daily Show. He could not hide his shock at the resemblance and jokingly asked if there was a backup version of Trump on standby. He kept replaying the clip, clearly stunned by how much the man’s build and stance matched the president’s. Stewart even joked he was not sure which one was the real Trump anymore. The clip quickly spread across social media, and users had their own theories. Some pointed to a popular show called Inside Job, which features a fictional robotic clone of a president. One viewer even suggested fans check it out, calling some of its ideas surprisingly close to reality. Other users had simpler explanations. Someone suggested the man was likely a body double hired for security reasons. Another commenter guessed the man could be John Solomon, a controversial political figure known for his election-related claims tied to the White House. Despite the wave of guesses, most people online landed on one theory. Many believe the man is actually Viktor Knavs, Melania Trump’s father. Reports note that Knavs was indeed present at the World Cup final, which lines up with the timing of the viral clip. Still, nobody has officially confirmed who the man really is. The White House has not commented on the viral footage, and the mystery man himself has not come forward. For now, the internet is left buzzing with speculation, memes, and half-joking conspiracy theories. Whether it is a security double, a family member, or simply an odd coincidence, the resemblance has proven impossible to ignore. One thing is certain, the video has given social media plenty to talk about this week.

  • | |

    Haris Khokhar denies Dr Nabiha Ali Khan’s allegations

    ByJustpaste.in

    Haris Khokhar has publicly broken his silence to firmly refute the allegations made by his estranged wife, social media personality and medical professional Dr. Nabiha Ali Khan, labeling her claims as entirely baseless and deeply damaging to his family’s reputation. ​The high-profile rift between the couple—whose viral wedding celebrations previously captivated Pakistani social media—escalated into a public controversy after Dr. Nabiha appeared on a live television show. During the broadcast, she broke down in tears while accusing Khokhar and his family of subjecting her to severe mental stress, alleging domestic interference from her mother-in-law and sister-in-law that ultimately led to their separation. ​Responding through an exclusive interview and subsequent online statements, Khokhar offered his side of the story, categorically denying any mistreatment or domestic misconduct. He expressed deep dismay over having his private domestic matters aired on national television, asserting that he never abandoned his wife as claimed. Instead, Khokhar maintained that Dr. Nabiha chose to leave their marital home voluntarily after failing to adapt to married life and the household dynamics. ​Defending his family against what he described as targeted character assassination, Khokhar pointed out that his sister is happily married with children and that his parents had consistently welcomed Dr. Nabiha into their home. He rejected accusations that his family caused friction in the marriage, emphasizing that the disputes stemmed from personal incompatibilities and unrealistic expectations rather than systematic abuse. ​”I will not engage in a toxic public blame game, but dragging my mother and family onto live broadcasts with false allegations is completely unacceptable. I never abandoned my wife; she chose to walk away. She needs to acknowledge the reality of our personal differences instead of maligning my parents on social media for content and sympathy.” ​Khokhar further revealed that he has initiated formal legal notices regarding the dissolution of their marriage, stating that reconciliation is no longer a viable option following the public defamation his family endured. Addressing the media circus surrounding their split, he urged content creators, digital news portals, and netizens to stop sensationalizing their personal tragedy for online views and engagement. ​As formal legal proceedings move forward, Khokhar reiterated his call for privacy, urging both sides to handle the final resolution through legal courts rather than continuing trials on digital platforms.