KP sets 60% enrolment target for school dropouts

Iran has dismissed reports of ongoing negotiations with the United States, saying there are currently no direct talks between the two countries, while confirming that discussions with Oman are focused solely on establishing a temporary maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the consultations with Oman are aimed at ensuring safe navigation in the strategic waterway and should not be interpreted as an agreement to fully reopen the strait. He maintained that the security situation in the region remains unchanged and insisted that any broader decision regarding the Strait of Hormuz would depend on regional developments. Baghaei also said there are no plans for Iranian or American delegations to meet in the coming days, rejecting speculation that formal negotiations are currently underway. His remarks came after US President Donald Trump announced that Washington expected to begin talks with Iran and suggested that diplomatic efforts had prompted him to cancel a planned military operation. Trump said discussions involving Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Iran had encouraged the United States to pursue diplomacy instead of military action. The US president said he preferred reaching a negotiated settlement but warned that military options remained available if diplomacy failed. He expressed hope that an agreement could eventually address both navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme. Meanwhile, regional tensions remain high despite renewed diplomatic efforts. Reports emerged that an explosion occurred near a commercial tanker off the coast of Oman. Maritime authorities said the vessel and its crew were safe, while an investigation into the incident is underway. In another development, Iraq’s state oil marketing company reportedly offered significant discounts on Basrah crude exports to encourage buyers to lift cargoes from facilities inside the Strait of Hormuz, reflecting continuing uncertainty in regional energy markets. Iran also announced the execution of two men convicted of spying for Israel’s intelligence agency, saying they had provided sensitive military information to foreign operatives. The uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continues to affect global energy markets. The waterway handles a significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making any disruption a major concern for international trade and energy security.

The Indian government has reportedly suspended mobile internet services in several parts of central New Delhi as nationwide protests over examination paper leaks continue to gain momentum. The move came amid heightened security and growing demonstrations led by students and youth groups demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in the country’s examination system. According to informed sources, telecom companies were instructed to disable mobile data services in and around the main protest sites in central Delhi. The internet restrictions affected thousands of residents, commuters and businesses in the area. The suspension caused significant disruption to daily life. Shopkeepers, restaurants and street vendors reported difficulties accepting digital payments because many businesses in India rely heavily on internet-based payment systems. Residents also experienced problems accessing online services and communication platforms. The protests have continued for more than a month, with students camping in central Delhi and demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Demonstrators accuse the government of failing to prevent examination paper leaks that reportedly affected nearly two million students across the country. Student leaders say the paper leak scandal has seriously damaged confidence in India’s examination system and has put the future of millions of young people at risk. They insist the demonstrations will continue until those responsible are held accountable and meaningful reforms are introduced. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the controversy and promised strict action against individuals involved in examination fraud. He said the future of India’s youth remains a national priority and announced plans to establish fast-track courts to ensure speedy trials in paper leak cases. However, opposition leaders argued that the government’s response does not go far enough. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi renewed his demand for the dismissal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing the government of failing to protect the country’s education system and the interests of students. The demonstrations intensified after security forces attempted to stop protesters marching toward Parliament during the monsoon session. Police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds after protesters tried to breach security barriers. Clashes later broke out, leaving scores of protesters and security personnel injured. Following the unrest, authorities increased security across central Delhi by deploying additional police personnel, strengthening barricades and monitoring key government buildings to prevent further violence. The protest movement, which initially focused on examination paper leaks, has gradually expanded into a broader campaign highlighting concerns over unemployment, educational opportunities and governance. Protest organisers say the issue is no longer limited to examination irregularities but has become a wider movement demanding transparency, accountability and reforms.

Global crude oil prices have surged following a new wave of US military strikes on Iran and reported attacks on oil tankers in the Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthi forces. Brent crude futures climbed 1.93 dollars, or 2 per cent, to reach 96 dollars per barrel, marking its highest level since 8 June. This follows a previous trading session where Brent closed up by more than 3 dollars at 94.07 dollars per barrel. Concurrently, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose by 1.44 dollars, or 1.7 per cent, to trade at 88.27 dollars per barrel, extending gains after a nearly 3 per cent increase on Wednesday.