irgc targets key
| | |

IRGC targets key US military bases in Kuwait

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for launching another round of attacks on US military facilities in Kuwait, saying the strikes targeted key military infrastructure used by American forces in the Gulf region.

In an official statement, the IRGC said the operation targeted the Ali Al Salem Air Base, where US military personnel and equipment are stationed. According to the statement, the attack struck a large military equipment warehouse, a Patriot air defence missile system, and a hangar used to house US MQ-9 Reaper drones.

The IRGC claimed the strikes caused significant damage to military assets at the base. However, the extent of the reported damage has not been independently verified.

The statement also said Iranian forces targeted Al Udairi Barracks, another military facility used by US forces in Kuwait. The IRGC claimed the attack hit accommodation areas used by American troops as well as two helicopter hangars, resulting in heavy damage to helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Iran further claimed that a telecommunications tower was also struck during the operation. According to the IRGC, the attack was carried out in retaliation for what it described as previous US attacks on communication infrastructure inside Iran.

The latest announcement comes amid heightened military tensions between Iran and the United States following recent exchanges of attacks in the region. Both countries have accused each other of escalating the conflict through military operations targeting strategic installations.

There has been no immediate confirmation from the US Department of Defense or the Kuwaiti government regarding the IRGC’s claims. American and Kuwaiti officials have not publicly commented on whether the reported attacks caused casualties or damage to military facilities.

Independent verification of the IRGC’s claims remains unavailable, and the exact impact of the reported strikes has not yet been confirmed.

The reported attacks are likely to further increase tensions in the Gulf region, where US military bases play a central role in regional security and military operations. Observers say any further escalation could have significant implications for stability in the Middle East as diplomatic efforts to ease tensions continue.

Similar Posts

  • | | |

    Govt moves SC against Imran’s hospital transfer

    A request for an early hearing has been filed in the Supreme Court against its August 18 order concerning the transfer of PTI founder Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to a private hospital. The application was filed by the Islamabad Chief Commissioner, who has asked the Supreme Court to urgently hear a review petition challenging its earlier directions regarding Imran Khan. In the review petition, the petitioner has sought a review, amendment and withdrawal of the August 18 order. The petition specifically challenges the direction to transfer the PTI founder from Adiala Jail to a private hospital. The application also challenges the court’s directions concerning his medical examination and treatment by a medical panel. According to the petition, the matter is not limited to the provision of medical facilities. It also involves questions relating to the legal and constitutional jurisdiction of the court and the authorities concerned. The review petition raises legal questions regarding the scope of judicial jurisdiction following the 27th Constitutional Amendment. It also refers to Article 175(2) of the Constitution and relevant prison laws. The petitioner has argued that the Supreme Court’s August 18 order was subject to a specific timeline, making an early hearing of the review petition necessary. The Islamabad administration has therefore requested the apex court to take up the matter on an urgent basis and reconsider the directions concerning Imran Khan’s transfer, medical examination and treatment. The development comes as authorities seek legal clarification over the implementation of the Supreme Court’s directions concerning the PTI founder’s medical care while he remains in custody.

  • |

    Sidharth Malhotra supports Kiara amid Toxic criticism

    Sidharth Malhotra has shown his support for Kiara Advani amid the criticism surrounding her upcoming film Toxic, which also stars South Indian superstar Yash in a leading role. The actress has recently found herself at the centre of online controversy following the release of the film’s final trailer. Several viewers criticised her for the bold and intimate scenes featured with Yash, with some social media users expressing their disappointment over her on-screen chemistry with the actor. Amid the growing criticism, Sidharth appeared to stand firmly by his wife and praised her hard work ahead of the film’s release. The actor took to Instagram to reshare the final trailer of Toxic, accompanying it with a heartfelt message for Kiara and the entire team. Highlighting the dedication and effort that went into making the highly anticipated project, Sidharth wrote that the hard work, passion and determination of the cast and crew would be visible on the big screen. He also expressed his excitement about Kiara’s performance, suggesting that the film could become one of her best projects. Sidharth further praised director Geetu Mohandas, Yash and the rest of the team for creating what he described as something magical. He concluded his message by extending his best wishes to the Toxic team and looking forward to the film’s release on August 26. His supportive message comes at a time when Kiara has been receiving considerable attention on social media because of her role in the action-packed film. The trailer has generated strong buzz among audiences, particularly because of the actress’s chemistry and intimate moments with Yash. While some viewers have criticised the scenes, the film’s team has continued to promote the project ahead of its theatrical release. Yash has also addressed the criticism surrounding Kiara and her role in Toxic. During the film’s recent trailer launch, the actor spoke highly of his co-star and praised her commitment as a performer. According to Yash, audiences have only witnessed a small glimpse of what Kiara has brought to the project. He described her as a dedicated actor and suggested that viewers should wait to experience her complete performance when the film arrives in cinemas. The actor also appeared to send a broader message to performers dealing with public criticism. He encouraged actors to remain committed to their beliefs and artistic choices instead of allowing outside opinions to influence their work. For now, the controversy has only added to the anticipation surrounding Toxic. With its star-studded cast, action-packed storyline and high-profile collaborations, the film is among the most awaited upcoming releases. As audiences prepare to watch Kiara and Yash on the big screen, Sidharth’s public show of support has made it clear that he is standing behind his wife and eagerly waiting to see her performance.

  • | | |

    Pakistan approves 1m tonnes wheat imports

    Pakistan’s strategic wheat reserves have fallen to critically low levels, with the stocks held by the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO) reportedly almost exhausted. The shortage has emerged despite the International Monetary Fund (IMF) allowing the government to procure wheat. Federal and provincial authorities, however, were unable to secure sufficient quantities, resulting in a sharp decline in PASSCO’s strategic reserves. The situation has raised concerns about maintaining adequate wheat supplies and meeting future requirements. PASSCO plays an important role in maintaining strategic stocks that can be used to support food security during periods of shortage. In response to the declining reserves, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved the import of one million tonnes of wheat. The government has also formed a steering committee to oversee the process and ensure that all necessary requirements are completed before the imported wheat is brought into the country. Officials said the import process will be subject to several conditions. These include pre-shipment inspection to verify the quality and quantity of wheat before it leaves the exporting country. Another major condition requires provincial governments to arrange and provide the funds needed to meet their respective wheat requirements. The latest decision comes as authorities seek to strengthen wheat availability and prevent a potential supply gap. The import plan is expected to help rebuild stocks after the depletion of PASSCO’s strategic reserves. The steering committee will monitor the required procedures and coordinate with the relevant federal and provincial authorities. Its role will include ensuring that the conditions attached to the wheat import decision are fulfilled. The development highlights the importance of timely wheat procurement and strategic stock management. Any delay in rebuilding reserves could create additional pressure on the country’s food supply system, particularly if domestic availability remains insufficient.

  • |

    Pakistan digitises Hajj 2027, announces Rs1.2m cost

    Pakistan has moved towards a completely digital Hajj management system, enabling intending pilgrims to complete registration and make pilgrimage-related payments through the official Pak Hajj mobile application, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf announced on Monday. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, the minister outlined the government’s preparations for Hajj 2027, including the estimated cost of pilgrimage packages, payment schedules, allocation of seats for short-duration Hajj and arrangements for collecting payments from pilgrims. He said the government had taken steps to bring the entire Hajj process onto a digital platform in an effort to make registration, payments and other administrative procedures easier, more transparent and traceable. According to the minister, approximately 400,000 people have already registered and are currently progressing through the application process for the government’s Hajj arrangements. Hajj 2027 packages and costs Sardar Yousuf announced that the estimated expenditure for the regular government Hajj package, which will cover a stay of around 40 to 42 days, has been set at approximately Rs1.2 million. The cost of the shorter package, designed for pilgrims opting for a stay of approximately 20 to 22 days, will be around Rs1.3 million, he said. The government has allocated 30,000 seats specifically for pilgrims opting for the short-duration Hajj package. The minister said the government would begin collecting the first instalment of Hajj expenses from August 17, while the second instalment would be payable during the second week of October. He added that applicants who are not selected to perform Hajj in 2027 would be placed on a waiting list for consideration in the subsequent year. Payments to be processed digitally The minister said the digitalisation programme would cover financial transactions as well as the registration process. Pilgrims would be required to use the Pak Hajj application for making payments instead of relying on other payment channels. The same digital mechanism will also be available to pilgrims travelling under the private Hajj scheme, allowing them to make their payments through the application. Sardar Yousuf emphasised that the government intends to keep Hajj-related financial transactions within the designated digital system to improve monitoring and ensure greater transparency. Pilgrims opting for the private scheme, however, will retain the option of selecting an online Hajj service provider of their choice. Habib Bank selected for Hajj payments As part of the new financial arrangements, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has entered into an agreement with Habib Bank Islami to facilitate the collection of Hajj payments. The minister said the bank would work with the ministry as its authorised banking partner for receiving pilgrimage-related funds under the arrangements being introduced for the upcoming Hajj season. He expressed satisfaction over the partnership and said the agreement would formally be signed on Monday. Minister responds to question over bank selection During the press conference, a journalist questioned the ministry’s decision to authorise Habib Bank as the banking partner for collecting Hajj applications and payments, asking why other banks had not been selected. Responding to the question, Sardar Yousuf said the ministry had opened the process to banks and invited them to participate. He explained that the banks that submitted applications were evaluated against the ministry’s requirements. According to the minister, Habib Bank was the only institution that fulfilled the required criteria, particularly those related to digital payment facilities. He said other participating banks were unable to meet the ministry’s stipulated requirements, which ultimately led to Habib Bank being selected as the authorised partner. Government seeks greater transparency through digital system The government believes the new digital framework will reduce paperwork and simplify several stages of the Hajj process for Pakistani pilgrims. By shifting registration and payment procedures to a centralised digital platform, the Ministry of Religious Affairs aims to improve oversight of applications and financial transactions while reducing the scope for manual errors. The integration of both government and private Hajj arrangements into the app-based system is also expected to provide pilgrims with easier access to information and payment services.

  • | |

    PML-N rejects rigging claims as AJK polls head tow…

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has strongly rejected allegations of election rigging in the ongoing Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) legislative assembly elections, maintaining that the electoral process has remained transparent and democratic despite criticism from opposition parties. The three-phase election, being held under heightened security arrangements, has become one of the most closely watched political contests in recent years. The process has been marked by the boycott of the polls by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), accusations of irregularities by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and weeks of unrest linked to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has challenged the existing electoral structure, particularly the controversial refugee constituencies. Addressing a press conference after the completion of the second phase of polling, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah expressed confidence that the PML-N had already secured enough seats to form the next AJK government. He predicted the party would strengthen its position further after the remaining constituencies complete voting in the final phase. Sanaullah described the elections as free, fair and credible, crediting election officials, law enforcement agencies and the AJK administration for ensuring a peaceful voting process under difficult circumstances. He dismissed the PPP’s allegations of rigging, arguing that any complaints should be formally presented before the Election Commission, which has the constitutional authority to investigate and order re-polling wherever necessary. The senior PML-N leader also alleged that elements associated with the PPP and JAAC attempted to create unrest in Muzaffarabad before polling day to discourage voter turnout in areas considered favorable to his party. He said the PML-N would seek an official investigation into those incidents. The PPP, however, continues to challenge the credibility of the elections. Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has alleged widespread irregularities and insisted that several constituencies require independent investigations, claiming that the electoral process has not provided a level playing field for all contestants. One of the central issues surrounding the election remains the 12 refugee constituencies, which represent refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir residing in different parts of Pakistan. Critics argue that these seats allow Islamabad greater influence over government formation in AJK, while the government maintains they are constitutionally protected. Earlier this year, the AJK Supreme Court ruled that the constituencies cannot be abolished without a constitutional amendment. The political atmosphere has also been shaped by protests led by the Joint Awami Action Committee, which initially mobilized against rising electricity prices, taxation and the increasing cost of living before expanding its campaign to demand electoral reforms. Following weeks of demonstrations and clashes with security forces, the AJK government declared JAAC a banned organization under anti-terrorism laws. With unofficial results from the first two phases placing the PML-N in a leading position, attention has now shifted to the third and final phase of polling in Poonch Division, scheduled for August 10. The outcome will determine the composition of the next AJK government and conclude an election that has generated intense political debate across Pakistan.

  • | |

    Bomb disposal officer injured in explosion at DI K…

    A bomb disposal officer was injured after an explosion ripped through the malkhana (evidence store) inside the Police Lines in Dera Ismail Khan on Thursday, causing significant damage to the building. According to police officials, the blast occurred inside the evidence store where confiscated explosive materials and other recovered items are kept. The force of the explosion caused part of the building’s roof and a wall to collapse. The officer in charge of the Bomb Disposal Squad sustained injuries in the incident. Rescue teams and fellow police personnel rushed to the scene and shifted him to a nearby hospital, where he received medical treatment. His condition was not immediately disclosed. Police said preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion was triggered by the accidental detonation of hand grenades stored inside the malkhana. However, officials stressed that the exact cause would only be confirmed after a thorough investigation. Following the explosion, police sealed off the affected area and launched a detailed search of the site. Investigators and forensic teams began collecting evidence to determine how the stored explosives detonated. Senior police officials also visited the Police Lines to inspect the damaged building and review the initial findings of the investigation. Authorities said all possible angles are being examined, including the handling, storage and condition of the explosive material kept in the evidence store. Police added that a comprehensive inquiry has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the blast and to determine whether any negligence or procedural lapse contributed to the incident.

Leave a Reply

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