تازہ ترین

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    15 martyred in terror attack on joint security Che…

    At least 15 people, including 14 security personnel, were martyred after terrorists launched a major attack on a joint security checkpost in Tank district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the early hours of Friday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attackers attempted to storm the checkpost in a coordinated assault. Security personnel immediately responded with heavy fire and successfully prevented the militants from capturing the position. During the intense gun battle, security forces killed 12 terrorists who were attempting to escape after the failed assault. Officials said the troops displayed exceptional bravery and professionalism while defending the post. The attackers later rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the outer wall of the checkpost. The massive explosion caused severe structural damage and resulted in the martyrdom of 12 army personnel, two police officers and one Forest Department official who were performing their duties at the time of the attack. The blast also damaged parts of the security installation, while emergency teams rushed to the area to assist the injured and secure the site. Following the attack, security forces launched a large-scale search and clearance operation in the surrounding areas to track down any remaining militants and ensure the area was fully secured. The operation is continuing. Military officials said Pakistan’s security forces remain fully committed to eliminating terrorism and will continue intelligence-based operations across the country under the Azm-i-Istehkam national counterterrorism strategy. The military paid tribute to the martyred personnel, describing their sacrifice as a symbol of courage, dedication and unwavering commitment to the defence of the country. Officials said such attacks would not weaken the nation’s resolve to defeat terrorism. The latest incident comes amid continued efforts by security forces to dismantle militant networks operating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan through intelligence-led operations. Authorities have intensified counterterrorism efforts in recent months following a rise in attacks targeting security personnel and public installations. Senior officials condemned the attack and vowed that those responsible would be hunted down and brought to justice. They reaffirmed that operations against terrorist groups would continue until peace and stability are fully restored across Pakistan. Security experts believe militant groups are attempting to target security installations to undermine ongoing counterterrorism operations. However, officials maintain that such attacks will only strengthen the determination of Pakistan’s security forces to continue their mission against terrorism.

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    LHC Judge appointments spark Rawalpindi lawyers’…

    Rawalpindi: A dispute has erupted among lawyers’ groups in Rawalpindi over recent appointments and nominations of judges to the Lahore High Court, with some bar organisations raising questions over the representation of Rawalpindi Division and demanding a review of the process. The controversy intensified after the Peoples Lawyers Forum Rawalpindi Division called the proposed nominations unacceptable and demanded that the Judicial Commission examine the reasons behind the selections and the rejection of other candidates. The forum questioned why no candidate from Rawalpindi Division was included in the nominations and demanded details about the criteria used for selecting nominees. Meanwhile, the High Court Bar Association Rawalpindi and District Bar Association Rawalpindi also expressed concern over what they described as the continued lack of representation of Rawalpindi Division in Lahore High Court appointments. The District Bar Association Rawalpindi stated that ignoring the region’s experienced lawyers raised concerns about merit, transparency and regional balance. The association said Rawalpindi Division has a large legal community consisting of seven district bars and fourteen tehsil bars, producing many renowned lawyers, judges and legal professionals who have contributed to Pakistan’s judicial system. According to the association, no member of the Rawalpindi Division bar has been confirmed as a Lahore High Court judge since 2017, despite several capable lawyers and additional judges from the region having served with distinction. The High Court Bar Association Rawalpindi described the continued absence of representation as a matter requiring attention and said consultations would be held with district and tehsil bars to decide future steps. The Peoples Lawyers Forum also called on President Asif Ali Zardari and Peoples Lawyers Forum President Nayyar Hussain Bukhari to take notice of the situation. The forum requested that the notification process should be reviewed and that the Judicial Commission should provide details about the nominated candidates, their qualifications, selection reasons and the reasons why other candidates were not considered. The lawyers’ group demanded that if the process was found inconsistent with rules or principles of fairness, recommendations should be reconsidered and a fresh merit based review should be conducted. However, the dispute remains focused on questions of representation and transparency rather than any confirmed wrongdoing. The final decision regarding judicial appointments rests with the relevant constitutional authorities and judicial forums. The issue has now placed attention on the balance between merit based appointments and regional representation in the higher judiciary. Lawyers’ organisations have called for a transparent mechanism that ensures qualified candidates from all regions receive equal consideration while maintaining the independence and quality of the judicial system.

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    Iran sent IRGC commanders to aid Houthis: report

    Iran is alleged to have flown senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders, military advisers and missile- and drone-related equipment to Yemen earlier this month in a move that could significantly strengthen the military capabilities of the Houthi movement, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The reported transfer is believed to have taken place on July 13 aboard a Mahan Air flight that departed from Tehran. Sources said the aircraft was originally scheduled to land in the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa, but was forced to divert to the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah after military activity disrupted operations at Sanaa International Airport. According to the sources, between 10 and 21 IRGC personnel, including senior commanders, were on board the aircraft. They claimed the mission included military advisers tasked with providing operational support and training on advanced missile systems. The flight was also reportedly carrying missile components, drone-related equipment and gold, which the sources alleged was intended to finance Houthi military operations. The reported shipment has raised fresh concerns that Tehran may be expanding its military support for the group amid growing regional tensions. Officials from Yemen’s internationally recognised government said intelligence indicated that Iranian military experts had arrived to strengthen Houthi capabilities. They claimed the advisers were expected to improve the group’s ability to launch attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea and the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes. Regional security analysts also supported the claims, saying the shipment allegedly included components for short- and medium-range missiles as well as drone systems similar to those previously used in attacks across the Gulf region. The reported deployment came only days before the Houthis announced a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia. The group later claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil tankers operating in the Red Sea, further escalating tensions and increasing fears over global energy supplies and maritime security. Despite the allegations, both Iran and the Houthi movement strongly denied the reports. A Houthi media official who said he was among the passengers on the flight insisted that everyone on board was a civilian and rejected claims that military personnel or weapons had been transported. Iran has also repeatedly denied supplying advanced weapons to the Houthis or directing their military operations. Iranian officials maintain that the Yemeni group independently develops its own military capabilities and makes its own operational decisions. According to Iranian officials, the July 13 flight was organised to return a Houthi delegation and Yemeni civilians who had travelled to Tehran earlier in the month. They said the passengers included people who had attended a funeral ceremony as well as Yemenis who had received medical treatment in Iran. The allegations have emerged at a time of heightened confrontation across the Middle East, where attacks involving the United States, Iran, Israel and Iran-backed groups have intensified. Growing instability has already disrupted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, contributing to rising oil prices and increasing uncertainty in global financial markets.

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    PPP workers’ convention in Lahore faces hurd…

    LAHORE: Preparations for the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) workers’ convention at Greater Iqbal Park were halted on Friday after the Lahore district administration said the party had not secured formal written permission to hold the event. The party had already set up a stage and made extensive arrangements for the convention, which is scheduled for July 25. The gathering was also expected to be followed by celebrations marking President Asif Ali Zardari’s birthday on July 26. District authorities questioned the use of the public venue without official approval and asked the PPP leadership to explain why preparations had begun before the necessary permission was obtained. Lahore PPP President Faisal Mir insisted the party had moved forward after receiving verbal assurances that there was no objection to the event from the Punjab Chief Minister’s Office. According to him, the preparations were launched in good faith based on those assurances, but officials later intervened and stopped the work. Mir criticized the administration’s actions, claiming access to the venue had been restricted and vehicles carrying chairs and other equipment had been prevented from reaching the site. He maintained that the party remained committed to holding the convention peacefully and said he was prepared to face arrest if necessary. The Chief Minister’s Office did not comment on claims that approval had been communicated through the chief minister’s principal secretary. PPP leaders also shared videos on social media showing workers at the venue, along with the stage and seating arrangements prepared for the convention, reaffirming the party’s determination to proceed with the event. Party sources acknowledged that written permission had not been obtained but argued that verbal approval was sufficient to begin preparations. They added that local police had been informed in advance about the gathering. The convention was expected to feature a large stage, with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari scheduled to address workers via video link. Senior party leaders, including Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Hassan Murtaza, and Qamar Zaman Kaira, were also expected to attend. Officials indicated that permission could still be granted if the required formalities were completed. However, they noted that approving the PPP event without following standard procedures could complicate decisions on similar requests from other political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has sought permission for a public gathering in Lahore next month.

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    Sharif promises motorways, international airport f…

    MIRPUR, Azad Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) President and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announced a series of major development promises for Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) while addressing a large public gathering in Mirpur. He said the PML-N would focus on improving infrastructure, healthcare, education and public transport if it returned to power in the region. During his speech, Nawaz Sharif also made a light-hearted political remark directed at Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He said Bilawal should not take his comments personally, adding that political rivalry should remain limited to healthy debate rather than conflict. Referring to the venue of the rally, he jokingly said Mirpur should not be confused with Kashmore or Mirpur Khas, stressing that it is Mirpur in Kashmir. The former prime minister said Kashmir has always held a special place in his heart and described Azad Kashmir as his “first home” rather than a second home. He said he shared a strong emotional bond with the people of the region and had always worked for their welfare during his time in office. Nawaz Sharif said Mirpur is one of the most beautiful cities in Azad Kashmir but added that its development had slowed after his government left power. He questioned what later governments had done for the people of Azad Kashmir and claimed that most major development projects in the region were initiated during the PML-N government. He said he had come to Mirpur with a clear development agenda and a comprehensive manifesto for Azad Kashmir. According to him, every major project completed in Pakistan and AJK carries the stamp of the PML-N’s performance and commitment. Speaking about future plans, Nawaz Sharif said education would remain the party’s highest priority. He stressed that young people must be provided with quality educational opportunities so they can contribute to the country’s progress. He also announced plans to strengthen the healthcare system in Azad Kashmir. He said more specialised hospitals for cancer treatment and heart diseases should be established to ensure patients receive advanced medical care without travelling to distant cities. Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Nawaz Sharif said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had arranged to provide modern electric buses for the people of Azad Kashmir. He added that 10 mobile hospitals would also be sent to improve healthcare services, especially in remote and underserved areas. The former prime minister promised that if the PML-N formed the government in Azad Kashmir, it would launch large-scale infrastructure projects. These include the construction of new motorways and an expressway linking Murree with Muzaffarabad to improve regional connectivity, boost tourism and support economic growth. Nawaz Sharif also pledged to personally visit every part of Azad Kashmir if his party received the public’s mandate. He promised to expand natural gas facilities to homes across Mirpur, saying better public services were essential for improving the quality of life.

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    Maryam’s big election pitch: roads, homes, hospi…

    Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has claimed that the public response at the PML-N rally in Mirpur shows that her party will secure a strong victory across Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a public gathering in Mirpur, Maryam Nawaz praised the enthusiasm of the participants despite the intense heat. She said the large turnout reflected growing support for the PML-N in the region. She said that people in Muzaffarabad also attended the party’s gathering despite heavy rainfall, adding that she had not come to Mirpur as a political visitor but as someone returning to her ancestral home. Maryam Nawaz said Mirpur has beautiful houses and significant potential, but its roads and infrastructure require major improvement. She added that the time had come to begin a new phase of development in the city. Recalling her visit with Nawaz Sharif, she said the former prime minister repeatedly admired the beauty of the region during their journey and appreciated its natural landscape. The Punjab chief minister said Kashmir has abundant resources and talented people, but it lacks modern infrastructure. She stressed the need for better roads, advanced hospitals and improved facilities to promote tourism and economic growth in Azad Kashmir. She claimed that the PML-N would provide the same facilities in Azad Kashmir that it has introduced in Punjab if it wins the upcoming elections. She announced that even before the elections, she was bringing a gift of 10 electric buses for Mirpur. Maryam Nawaz highlighted Punjab government initiatives, saying that around 200,000 people had received homes under the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” housing project within two years. She said Azad Kashmir could surpass Punjab in development within five years if honest and effective governance was ensured. She also called for introducing projects such as a Safe City system and housing schemes in Azad Kashmir to improve public security and living standards. Criticising rival political parties, Maryam Nawaz said no other party could point to major development work carried out in Kashmir. She challenged opponents to identify even a single major infrastructure project completed by them. She urged voters to make a careful decision, warning that choosing the wrong leadership could delay development opportunities. She said people from other provinces often praise Punjab’s progress and wish for similar governance. Maryam Nawaz said that removing Nawaz Sharif’s contributions from Pakistan’s development history would leave behind “only ruins.” She promised that if people supported the PML-N, the party would bring changes in Azad Kashmir beyond public expectations and work to transform the region’s future.

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    PM, Field Marshal inaugurate Sky47 Karakoram One D…

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir have inaugurated the Sky47 Karakoram One Data Centre, marking a major step towards strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. During a briefing at the facility, the prime minister was informed that the data centre would provide a strong foundation for cloud computing, data hosting and advanced digital services. Officials said the project would help Pakistan move towards technological self-reliance. The Sky47 Data Centre has the capability to support emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and high-performance computing. It is expected to play an important role in meeting the country’s growing digital and technological needs. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the modern data centre as an impressive and remarkable achievement. He praised the completion of the project in a short period, saying it reflected strong commitment, expertise and determination. The prime minister appreciated the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir and the contribution of technology partner ZTE in making the project possible. He said the country’s achievements during difficult times showed that challenges could be overcome through unity, determination and hard work. Shehbaz Sharif said projects like Sky47 represent Pakistan’s future and would contribute to national progress. He thanked all stakeholders involved in delivering the facility and said such initiatives would enhance the country’s digital security and technological capabilities. Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the inauguration of the Sky47 Data Centre marked the beginning of a new era of artificial intelligence in Pakistan. She said the project would open doors to new economic opportunities and allow Pakistan to better utilise its resources, data and skilled workforce. The minister added that transforming data into practical solutions and converting artificial intelligence into economic value would be crucial for future growth. She said the global AI race would depend on secure, affordable and effective use of technology.

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    South Korea becomes global health tourism giant

    South Korea is rapidly becoming one of the world’s leading destinations for medical tourism as international travellers increasingly combine vacations with comprehensive health check-ups. Foreign visitors are now adding blood tests, ultrasounds, cancer screenings and other preventive healthcare services to their travel plans, attracted by affordable costs, advanced technology, quick results and foreigner-friendly facilities. According to South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, more than 2 million foreign patients visited the country in 2025, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Visitors mainly came from China, Japan, Taiwan and the United States. Experts say South Korea’s growing popularity as a healthcare destination is driven by its efficient medical system, advanced equipment and competitive prices. Many international patients can complete full-body health screenings within a few hours, avoiding long waiting periods and complicated procedures common in other countries. Medical tourism officials say healthcare in South Korea remains relatively affordable because of government regulation of medical costs. In some cases, the cost of a single advanced medical test in countries like the United States can equal the price of a complete health screening package in South Korea. The country’s healthcare system also focuses heavily on preventive care, allowing doctors to detect diseases at an early stage through regular screenings. International visitors can book health packages through specialised medical concierge services that arrange appointments, interpreters and follow-up consultations. Many major hospitals and screening centres provide services in English and offer results in multiple languages. Foreign patients have shared positive experiences of completing extensive medical examinations, including blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds and endoscopies, within a single visit. One visitor from Los Angeles said he chose South Korea after researching medical centres online and was impressed by the number of tests offered and the professionalism of healthcare workers. His complete screening, including several procedures, was completed within hours at a comparatively low cost. Another traveller from Hong Kong said a similar health package in her home country would have cost several times more than what she paid in South Korea. Healthcare providers say international patients are also attracted by smooth services, modern facilities and the availability of follow-up treatment if any health issues are discovered. However, experts advise travellers to confirm language support before booking appointments and recommend using medical assistance services to avoid communication problems.

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    Sindh health minister calls for stronger measures to protect mothers during childbirth

      Karachi: Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho has expressed serious concern over the rising maternal mortality rate associated with repeated cesarean section (C-section) deliveries. Speaking at the “Maa Rahe Salamat” (May Mothers Stay Safe) Family Planning Summit held at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) in Karachi, she emphasized the urgent need for stronger policies and legislation to protect the lives and health of mothers in Pakistan. Addressing participants at the summit, Dr. Pechuho stated that Sindh has taken a leading role in promoting maternal and child health across the country. She highlighted that the provincial government has introduced several laws and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services for women and children, particularly during pregnancy and childbirth. The health minister noted that the increasing number of cesarean deliveries has contributed to a higher rate of maternal deaths. According to her, repeated surgical deliveries expose women to greater health risks, including excessive bleeding, infections, complications from anesthesia, and damage to internal organs. She said the provincial health department is actively working to address these issues and expressed confidence that the results of these efforts will become visible in the near future. Dr. Pechuho stressed that protecting mothers during childbirth should be treated as a national priority. She said the government wants to introduce legislation that ensures the safety of women during pregnancy and delivery while also promoting informed family planning decisions. One of the key proposals she discussed was the introduction of tubal ligation after a woman’s third cesarean section. Tubal ligation is a permanent method of contraception in which the fallopian tubes are blocked or sealed to prevent future pregnancies. According to Dr. Pechuho, women who undergo a third C-section face significantly higher health risks if they become pregnant again. She argued that women should have the right to request tubal ligation during their third cesarean delivery if they wish to avoid future pregnancies. In her view, providing this option would help reduce preventable maternal deaths and improve long-term maternal health outcomes. She added that ensuring access to this procedure should be considered an important part of reproductive healthcare. The minister further remarked that if Pakistan is serious about reducing maternal mortality, mandatory consideration of tubal ligation after a third cesarean section should be included in public health policy. She explained that she deliberately presented the proposal in cautious terms but believes that legislation should move in this direction. According to her, she is already working to advance legal reforms that would support this objective. Dr. Pechuho concluded by reaffirming the Sindh government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of mothers and newborns. She emphasized that comprehensive maternal healthcare, effective family planning services, and timely medical interventions are essential for reducing preventable deaths and ensuring healthier families. She expressed hope that the proposed legal and policy reforms would strengthen maternal healthcare services and provide greater protection for women across the province.

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    Is Mawra Hocane expecting her first baby?

    Pakistani actors Mawra Hocane and Ameer Gilani are once again at the centre of social media discussion after their recent anniversary posts sparked fresh speculation that they may be expecting their first child. The rumours began circulating after the couple shared photos and videos celebrating their first wedding anniversary. Some social media users claimed Mawra appeared to be hiding a baby bump, while others pointed to what they described as a noticeable “pregnancy glow.” However, neither Mawra nor Ameer has confirmed the speculation. The couple celebrated their anniversary by sharing heartfelt messages dedicated to each other. Mawra expressed her love by describing Ameer as the light of her life and thanked him for a memorable first year of marriage. Ameer also posted a loving tribute, expressing his hope for many more years together. Mawra also shared an emotional note about the jewellery and wedding dupatta gifted to her by her mother-in-law. She described the family heirlooms as deeply meaningful and said she hoped to preserve them before eventually passing them on to the next generation. Following the anniversary celebrations, online discussions intensified, with fans closely analysing the couple’s recent public appearances and photographs. The speculation quickly spread across entertainment pages and social media platforms. Despite the growing rumours, there has been no official confirmation from the couple regarding any pregnancy. This is not the first time Mawra has faced such speculation. In the past, she publicly dismissed similar claims, making it clear that the rumours were false and asking fans not to believe unverified reports. Mawra Hocane and Ameer Gilani tied the knot on February 5, 2025, in a private wedding ceremony attended by close family members and friends. The couple later shared wedding photographs on social media, receiving widespread congratulations from fans and fellow celebrities. Before getting married, the two actors worked together in several popular television dramas, earning praise for their on-screen chemistry and becoming one of Pakistan’s most admired celebrity couples.