iran warns ukraine
| | |

Iran warns Ukraine of response after reported Casp…

Tensions between Iran and Ukraine have increased after Tehran accused Kyiv of carrying out an attack on a vessel in the Caspian Sea and warned that the incident would not go unanswered.

According to Iranian state media reports, Iran’s Parliament Deputy Speaker Ali Nikzad said the country would respond to what he described as an irresponsible action by Ukraine. He stated that Iran reserves the right to defend its territorial sovereignty and considers any attack on its territory or interests a matter requiring a response.

The controversy emerged after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly claimed that Ukrainian forces had targeted a Russian military vessel and also struck an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea. Iran’s Foreign Ministry later confirmed that an Iranian ship had been affected by the incident.

Following the report, Iran summoned Ukraine’s chargé d’affaires and lodged a formal protest, describing the action as hostile and unacceptable. Tehran said the incident could increase regional tensions and accused Ukraine of violating international principles.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry stated that the country would take measures to protect its security and interests within the framework of international law.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also condemned the reported attack and called on the United Nations, the European Union, and the international community to take action. During a phone conversation with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Araghchi urged international bodies to hold those responsible for the incident accountable.

The reported confrontation has added another layer of complexity to ongoing international tensions, with both sides facing calls to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Directorate of Youth Affairs launches citizen comp…

    PESHAWAR: The Directorate of Youth Affairs, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has launched the “Ikhtiyar Awam Ka” Complaint Cell across all districts of the province, providing citizens with a dedicated platform to register complaints, submit suggestions and seek information regarding youth-related services through their respective District Youth Offices. The initiative has been introduced to promote transparency, accountability and effective public engagement while ensuring timely redressal of complaints related to youth affairs and government services. Director Youth Affairs Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Abbas Khan Afridi said the establishment of the complaint cell reflects the government’s commitment to responsive governance and citizen-centric service delivery. “The Directorate of Youth Affairs is committed to ensuring that every citizen has direct access to our services. The ‘Ikhtiyar Awam Ka’ Complaint Cell will strengthen communication between the public and the Directorate, enabling us to address complaints promptly and improve the quality of services through public feedback,” Mr Afridi said. He said citizens from every district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could contact their respective District Youth Offices through the designated helpline numbers to register complaints, report issues, share recommendations and obtain information about youth development programmes. Mr Afridi added that every complaint received through the complaint cell would be handled with transparency, responsibility and within a defined timeframe to ensure accountability and public confidence. The complaint cell has been established in all district youth offices across Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Swat, Buner, Shangla, Lower Dir, Upper Dir, Malakand, Chitral Upper, Chitral Lower, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, North Waziristan, South Waziristan Upper, South Waziristan Lower, Lakki Marwat, Bannu, Karak, Kohat, Hangu, Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, Haripur, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, Upper Kohistan, Lower Kohistan and Kolai-Palas Kohistan, where citizens can connect through the officially designated helplines. Officials said the initiative would strengthen public trust, improve institutional accountability and ensure efficient delivery of youth-related services across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

  • |

    Trinasolar eyes Pakistan’s battery storage boom

    Pakistan has built one of the world’s fastest-growing distributed solar markets. According to recent research by Ember and Renewables First, it is estimated that Pakistan has approximately 38GW of distributed solar capacity across residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural sectors. As this installed solar base grows, the next challenge is making that energy more flexible and available when businesses need it most. Trina Storage, Trinasolar’s global battery energy storage business, says Pakistan’s expanding solar base is increasing interest in solar-plus-storage, particularly for utility-scale and microgrids for commercial & industrial (C&I). A Renewables First report estimates that Pakistan imported 4.6 GWh of BESS in 2025, representing 220% year-on-year growth. Rather than replacing existing solar assets, well-designed solar-plus-storage systems can help businesses optimize renewable energy use, improve operational flexibility and support more resilient energy management strategies, depending on each site’s design and operating requirements. However, adding BESS to an existing solar installation is not a simple plug-and-play exercise. Projects require careful assessment of the site’s electrical architecture, inverter configuration, demand profile, equipment compatibility, energy management system, safety requirements and commercial objectives. For many retrofit projects, an AC-coupled approach provides a practical solution by allowing battery storage to operate alongside an existing PV system through its own Power Conversion System (PCS), helping retain much of the original solar infrastructure. Compatibility must still be assessed at system level, including electrical interfaces, communications, controls and compliance with the applicable IEC and UL standards. Designed for utility-scale and C&I applications, Trina Storage’s Elementa Series is compatible and is designed for integration within solar-plus-storage systems using Trina or third-party equipment, with compatibility assessed according to the project architecture. Beyond supplying technology, Trinasolar can work with customers and EPC partners to assess system compatibility, determine the most suitable BESS configuration and develop an operating strategy aligned with each site’s technical and commercial requirements. Trinasolar’s energy storage expertise builds on its long-established presence in Pakistan’s solar market, where the company has supplied more than 500MW of 700W+ modules across commercial, industrial and residential applications and recently introduced the Vertex N G3 760W series. Globally, Trina Storage, established in 2015, has achieved BloombergNEF Tier 1 Energy Storage Manufacturer status for 10 consecutive quarters and is expected to surpass 30 GWh of cumulative shipments by the first half of 2026. Its latest 6.25MWh Elementa 3 platform combines advanced battery technology, intelligent thermal management and integrated safety features for large-scale energy storage applications. “Pakistan has already built a strong solar foundation. The next phase is to consider how battery storage can be integrated with those assets to make renewable electricity available across a wider range of operating conditions. That requires careful assessment of the existing equipment, the site’s load profile and the role the battery is expected to perform. Trinasolar’s PV experience and Trina Storage’s global BESS capabilities give us a useful perspective across both sides of that system,” said Edison Zhou, Head of Pakistan, Trinasolar.

  • | |

    Dylan Mulvaney responds after Trump remarks

    Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney has responded after US President Donald Trump mentioned her several times during his speech at the rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Dinner, saying she was surprised to remain a topic of conversation years after her controversial Bud Light partnership. Mulvaney addressed the remarks in a TikTok video, where she congratulated CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins before responding to Trump’s comments. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, originally scheduled for April, was postponed after a gunman opened fire while the event was underway. During his speech on Friday, Trump congratulated CNN White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins on receiving a journalism award before joking about her success and comparing her to Mulvaney. Trump said, “I thought Kaitlan had really made it big with a major new sponsorship, but then I informed her that it wasn’t her on the Bud Light can, it was Dylan Mulvaney.” He went on to criticise Mulvaney’s 2023 promotional campaign with Bud Light, adding, “Dylan Mulvaney cost Bud Light $35 billion in market cap. That was the worst commercial ever made by the way, for those few people who want to hear that. Most people don’t care, but I would. I wouldn’t want to hire Dylan any time soon.” According to the report, Trump later shared an edited image on social media that placed Kaitlan Collins’ face onto Mulvaney’s body from the Bud Light advertisement, further extending the joke beyond the dinner. The post quickly circulated online and generated widespread discussion on social media. In a TikTok response posted on Sunday, Mulvaney began by congratulating Collins on her award. She said, “I would like to tell her that I’m incredibly honored to be compared to her in any way, and I hope that she keeps doing all the great work.” She then pointed out that Trump had mentioned her repeatedly during his speech, saying, “And yet I am still his topic of conversation all these years later.” Reflecting on the continued attention she receives, Mulvaney added, “It seems to me that I might be like the one that got away for these men.” She also made it clear that she would not want support from an administration whose policies she believes do not support her or many others, stating, “I wouldn’t want to be professionally supported by an administration that doesn’t personally support me or so many others in this country.” Mulvaney concluded her video with a pointed remark about the criticism she has received from the administration. “Maybe being publicly mocked and criticized by this administration is actually like the greatest compliment of all,” she said. Her response has since gone viral, drawing mixed reactions online, with supporters praising her composure while critics continued debating the controversy surrounding her Bud Light partnership and Trump’s remarks. 

  • | |

    Pakistani content creators demand justice in Azad Kashmir

    A wave of digital voices is rising from Azad Jammu and Kashmir and from across Pakistan as deeply disturbing reports emerge of violence following elections held in the region. Content creators, local witnesses and public figures have taken to social media to share footage, demand accountability and appeal for international attention as claims of civilian killings spread rapidly online. The unrest followed elections in AJK, after which protests erupted amid allegations of election rigging. Demonstrators took to the streets demanding protection of their mandate, and the situation deteriorated sharply when clashes broke out between security forces and protesters. According to locals sharing updates on social media, heavy firing continued throughout the night and cellular services were shut down in parts of the region, limiting the flow of information. Reports from the ground claim that more than 200 people have been killed, though these figures have not been independently verified. Among the most widely shared voices was young digital creator Laibaro Manak, who addressed her message directly to PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. “My video is for Bilawal Bhutto,” she said. “I asked him about the internet shutdown and the situation, and he responded that everything should be handled peacefully. But soon after the election, countless people died due to open firing by forces. You took votes and are celebrating your victory, but Kashmir is bleeding. My appeal is to stop the firing. Mothers are waiting for their sons, unaware that their children are being killed by direct gunfire.” Another content creator broke down in tears while addressing the camera, describing scenes of chaos and death he had personally witnessed. He said that after watching his friends die, he stood before the camera and demanded that forces open fire on him too, a raw and anguished act of protest against what he described as indiscriminate killing of innocent people. A third creator spoke directly to the camera from the site of what he described as a long march that was met with force. “Today we were doing a long march, and security forces opened direct fire on us. Countless people are injured, and many are dead. Cellular services are shut down, and they are committing genocide in Kashmir. I request international humanitarian organizations to take action against the oppressors and share this news as much as you can.” Actress Mishi Khan was among the Pakistani public figures to raise her voice. “Please have mercy on the people of Azad Kashmir and Balochistan,” she wrote. “They are citizens of Pakistan who are being treated in the most inhumane manner just because they wanted their rights as citizens. This kind of treatment is so cruel. Have mercy on your own people.” Content creator Anumta Imran also shared footage documenting the deaths, as a growing number of digital voices from within and outside AJK worked to bypass the communication blackout and ensure the situation reached a wider audience. The voices emerging from AJK are not simply asking for sympathy. They are asking to be seen, heard and counted at a moment when the tools that might otherwise amplify their cries have been deliberately switched off.

  • | | | |

    Iran claims destruction of three US F-35 jets

    The conflict between Iran and the United States intensified on Thursday after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it destroyed three US F-35 fighter jets during a missile attack on Jordan’s al-Azraq airbase, a key facility used by American forces. According to the IRGC, the attack was carried out in retaliation for a US strike on Iran’s Qeshm Island that allegedly killed members of a civilian family. Iranian officials claimed several ballistic missiles struck aircraft maintenance facilities at the base, destroying three F-35 fighter jets and severely damaging three others. The IRGC also alleged that several US military personnel and technical staff were killed in the attack. No independent confirmation of these claims has been provided by US or Jordanian authorities. The latest exchange came after the United States launched fresh overnight strikes targeting multiple locations in Iran, including Bushehr, Qeshm, Bandar Abbas, Kish and Abadan. Iranian media reported that residential areas on Qeshm Island were hit, killing three members of one family and injuring two children. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also announced that three of their personnel were killed in separate US missile attacks, vowing retaliation against what they described as American aggression. Meanwhile, Jordan said its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed five Iranian missiles heading toward its territory, marking the fourth consecutive day of missile interceptions. Authorities reported no casualties or damage. Iraq also sought to distance itself from the growing conflict. A military spokesperson stated there was no evidence that recent regional attacks had been launched from Iraqi territory, while stressing that only official security forces would be responsible for the country’s defence and security. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said discussions with Omani officials aimed at reducing tensions remain ongoing in Tehran. Iranian officials blamed the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions to global shipping on US and Israeli military operations, insisting that foreign military actions had created instability in one of the world’s most important energy corridors. The IRGC also claimed two oil tankers attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz turned back after a fire broke out on one vessel. The group warned the strategic waterway would remain closed while military pressure against Iran continued. Elsewhere, Iran condemned recent US and Saudi air strikes inside Iraq, calling them violations of Iraqi sovereignty and international law. The attacks reportedly targeted Iran-aligned groups operating in the country. The United Nations expressed growing concern over the escalating hostilities. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged all parties to end military operations immediately and return to diplomatic negotiations, warning that continued escalation could further destabilise the Middle East.

  • |

    Wasim Akram’s 1992 heroics inspire Rabada ahead of 2027 World Cup

    JOHANNESBURG: South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has revealed that one of Wasim Akram’s greatest World Cup performances is motivating him as the Proteas prepare for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup on home soil. Rabada, speaking at the official World Cup 2027 venue and brand announcement event in Johannesburg, acknowledged that hosting cricket’s biggest tournament brings an added sense of responsibility. However, the experienced pacer said he prefers to view home advantage as an opportunity rather than a burden. “I think there’s a lot more to it at the moment with us hosting it,” Rabada said. Rather than feeling pressured to deliver a title in front of home supporters, the 31-year-old wants South Africa to embrace the occasion and protect what he described as their “fortress”. “For me, it’s about representing the badge,” Rabada said, stressing the pride that comes with playing a World Cup in front of South African fans. The fast bowler also looked back at the 1992 World Cup final, identifying Pakistan great Wasim Akram’s devastating spell against England as one of the tournament moments he remembers most vividly. Akram changed the final with two remarkable deliveries that removed Allan Lamb and Chris Lewis in successive balls, helping Pakistan seize control before eventually lifting the trophy. For Rabada, the performance represented everything he admires about fast bowling: pace, skill, intensity and the ability to rise to the biggest occasion. “He was fast, had so much skill, and just had this presence, this heightened energy about him,” Rabada recalled. The South African pacer hopes his team can create a similarly memorable moment in 2027. South Africa have repeatedly shown the ability to reach the latter stages of major ICC tournaments but have struggled to convert those appearances into a world title. Rabada believes that barrier is no longer psychological. “We’ve shown that we can go and play in finals and in the semi-finals,” he said. The remaining challenge, he added, is taking that final step. With the 2027 World Cup set to be staged across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, Rabada and his teammates will have a major opportunity to write their own chapter in cricket history. And if Rabada can channel even a little of Akram’s 1992 magic, South African fans may have plenty to celebrate.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *