kuwaiti foreign minister
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Kuwaiti Foreign Minister meets Army Chief  Asim M…

RAWALPINDI: Kuwait’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, met Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on Tuesday to discuss regional security and ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

The Kuwaiti foreign minister was accompanied by Kuwait’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Nassar Abdul Rahman J. Al-Mutairi.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the two sides exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, the regional security environment, and opportunities to further deepen bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, the Kuwaiti foreign minister appreciated Pakistan’s continued support and its constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability. He also highlighted the longstanding fraternal relationship between Pakistan and Kuwait.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening ties with Kuwait, stressing that both countries share a common vision for regional peace, stability, and prosperity. He expressed confidence that the enduring partnership between the two nations would continue to grow across multiple areas of cooperation.

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    Pakistan SMA symposium 2026 held in Islamabad, bri…

      Islamabad: The Pakistan SMA Symposium 2026, organised by STRIVE – Strive Eradication of Disability Foundation, was held at Serena Hotel Islamabad, bringing together leading doctors, professors, researchers, medical experts, academics, civil society representatives, volunteers and families affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). The symposium focused on raising awareness about SMA, promoting early diagnosis, discussing modern treatment options, genetic screening, medical research and the challenges faced by patients and their families. The gathering also provided an important platform for medical professionals and researchers to exchange views on the future of SMA care and research in Pakistan. Chief Health Sector Reforms Unit (HSRU) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Dr Syed Ejaz Ali Shah, Chairman Zakat and Ushr Council Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Imtiaz Khan, and Chairman STRIVE Muhammad Yasir Khan were among the prominent participants. Doctors, medical specialists, researchers, representatives of civil society, SMA-affected families and people associated with different walks of life also attended the event. A notable feature of the symposium was the participation of professors, heads of departments and academic experts from various universities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The experts shared their views on SMA, genetic disorders, medical research, recent developments in treatment and the future direction of medical science. Researchers working on SMA at the international level also participated in the symposium. Experts and researchers from Poland, the United Kingdom and other European countries joined the gathering, giving the Pakistan SMA Symposium an international academic and research dimension. The participation of foreign researchers provided an opportunity to strengthen links between ongoing efforts in Pakistan and international research and developments in the field of SMA. Participants stressed the importance of greater cooperation between Pakistani institutions and international research communities to improve knowledge, diagnosis and care for people living with rare diseases. Addressing the gathering, Chief HSRU Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Dr Syed Ejaz Ali Shah paid tribute to parents and families of SMA patients for their continued struggle and resilience. He said the efforts of families working for the better lives and futures of their children deserved recognition and appreciation. Dr Shah emphasised that awareness about complex and rare diseases such as SMA must be accompanied by effective support for patients and their families. He highlighted the importance of collective efforts involving healthcare professionals, families, government institutions and other stakeholders. Chairman STRIVE Muhammad Yasir Khan said SMA was not merely a medical condition but had become a wider struggle requiring the combined efforts of patients, parents, doctors, researchers, government institutions, media, civil society and social organisations. He said STRIVE was working to take awareness about SMA to different parts of the country, promote early diagnosis, encourage research and help create better pathways for patients to access treatment and necessary healthcare facilities. Yasir Khan also announced that STRIVE would organise a major SMA Summit on October 30 and 31, 2026, at Tulip Marquee Islamabad. He said the proposed summit would be one of the largest gatherings of its kind in Pakistan and would bring patients, parents, doctors, medical specialists, national and international researchers, policymakers, universities, civil society organisations, volunteers and other relevant stakeholders together under one roof. During the symposium, speakers discussed the symptoms of Spinal Muscular Atrophy, the importance of timely diagnosis, genetic screening, modern treatment, patient care, research and future strategies for addressing SMA in Pakistan. Doctors and researchers emphasised that early diagnosis, proper medical guidance and access to modern treatment can play an important role in improving the quality of life of children and individuals affected by SMA. They also stressed the need for greater public awareness so that families can recognise the condition and seek appropriate medical advice at an early stage. Participants observed that Pakistan requires further efforts in public awareness, medical facilities, genetic diagnosis, research and policymaking related to SMA. Strengthening these areas, they said, could help provide better support to children living with the condition and their families. The symposium also highlighted the importance of building stronger cooperation between universities, healthcare institutions, researchers, policymakers and international organisations. Such collaboration, participants said, could help Pakistan benefit from global scientific developments while encouraging local research into rare diseases. At the conclusion of the event, participants expressed their commitment to expanding awareness, research and advocacy for the rights and needs of people affected by SMA. They stressed the importance of developing stronger links between government institutions, universities, the medical community, media, civil society, patients and their families. The organisers said the Pakistan SMA Symposium 2026 was more than a single event, describing it as an important step towards creating a collective voice and sustained movement for greater awareness, research, early diagnosis and improved support for SMA patients in Pakistan. The gathering also reflected growing efforts by medical professionals, researchers, families and civil society organisations to place rare diseases on the national health agenda and to promote a more informed, inclusive and supportive healthcare environment for affected individuals and their families.

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    Economists urge SBP to hold rate at 11.5%

    Economists have recommended that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) keep its policy rate unchanged at 11.5% at its upcoming monetary policy meeting on July 27. The recommendation comes as inflation has started to ease, but underlying price pressures remain high. Analysts believe the economy is also recovering unevenly, leaving limited room for another increase in borrowing costs. A recent economic assessment showed that headline inflation fell to 11.1% in June. However, core inflation remained elevated. Urban core inflation stood at 8.7%, while rural core inflation was recorded at 7.9%. Economists said much of the current inflationary pressure is coming from food, energy, transport and government-controlled prices. These factors cannot be addressed effectively through interest-rate changes alone. They also warned that a recent increase in the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) requires close monitoring. The development could indicate that the decline in inflation has not yet become firmly established. Financial market indicators also support maintaining the current policy rate. Short-term Treasury bill yields remain close to the SBP’s existing rate, while the overnight interest rate is also broadly aligned with the current monetary policy stance. However, yields on longer-term Treasury bills have increased. The six-month yield reached 11.80%, while the 12-month yield rose to 11.99%. Economists said the movement reflects some caution about the medium-term economic outlook. The assessment noted that Pakistan’s economic recovery has gained momentum but remains uneven. Large-scale manufacturing continues to face challenges, while there are no strong signs of excessive demand that would require another rate hike. Economists warned that raising the policy rate further could increase borrowing costs for businesses and consumers. It could also discourage investment and slow economic activity without directly tackling the supply-side factors behind current inflation. Pakistan’s external position has improved in recent months. Higher foreign exchange reserves, strong remittance inflows and relative stability in the exchange rate have reduced immediate pressure on the economy. Despite these improvements, risks remain. The country continues to face a sizeable merchandise trade deficit and upcoming external debt repayments. Heavy dependence on imported energy also leaves Pakistan vulnerable to international oil price fluctuations. A sharp rise in global oil prices could increase transportation and energy costs in Pakistan. It could also widen external pressures and trigger another round of inflation. Persistent core inflation is another major concern. If underlying price pressures remain high, inflation expectations could become difficult to control. This could delay any reduction in interest rates or force the central bank to consider tighter monetary policy. A weakening exchange rate could create additional pressure by making imports more expensive. It could also affect foreign exchange reserves and increase imported inflation. Economists have therefore advised the SBP to closely monitor private-sector borrowing, lending rates, monetary growth and the difference between short- and long-term interest rates. For now, the indicators favour maintaining the policy rate at 11.5%. However, economists say the central bank should remain ready to adjust its stance if inflation, oil prices, exchange-rate pressures or external financing risks deteriorate.

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    Oil prices rise more than $2 amid falling US inven…

    Global crude oil prices climbed by more than $2 per barrel in the latest trading session, as a decline in US crude inventories boosted market sentiment and supported prices. According to Reuters, the rise came after traders responded to signs of tighter oil supplies in the United States. A drop in crude stockpiles often signals stronger demand or reduced availability, which can encourage investors to push prices higher. Oil prices had fallen in the previous session after tensions between Washington and Tehran showed signs of easing temporarily. However, the market regained momentum in the latest session as supply concerns returned to focus. Brent crude futures gained $2.71, or 3.2%, to reach $86.80 per barrel. Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures rose $2.26, or 3.4%, to trade at $81.95 per barrel. Market participants continue to closely monitor developments in the Middle East, particularly any changes in US-Iran relations, as well as global supply conditions. Any renewed tensions in the region could further affect oil markets because of the Middle East’s importance to global energy supplies. Analysts also expect traders to keep an eye on upcoming inventory data and broader demand trends. A combination of falling stockpiles, geopolitical uncertainty and concerns over supply could continue to create volatility in international oil prices in the coming sessions.

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    Selena Gomez faces fraud lawsuit over Wondermind

    Selena Gomez and her mother, Mandy Teefey, are facing allegations of fraud in a new lawsuit involving Wondermind, the mental health and wellness company they helped launch. The legal action has brought renewed attention to the company’s financial difficulties and internal problems. Wondermind was founded in 2021 with the goal of creating a platform focused on mental health and emotional wellness. Gomez and Teefey were closely associated with the venture, while Daniella Pierson served as its co-CEO. The company initially attracted significant attention and investment because of its high-profile founders and ambitious plans. Now, investors who put approximately $1.2 million into Wondermind are suing Gomez, Teefey, Pierson and Wondermind Global Inc. They are seeking a jury trial and financial recovery, claiming they were misled about the company’s condition and future prospects. According to the lawsuit, investors were allegedly given the impression that Wondermind had the infrastructure, leadership and resources needed to become a successful mental health platform. However, the plaintiffs claim the company was actually experiencing serious problems and was already facing a financial crisis. The investors also alleged that they were told Gomez would play a major role in Wondermind’s marketing efforts. They further claimed that Pierson was presented as an experienced business leader with an impressive track record and valuable partnerships. Several potential revenue-generating projects were allegedly described as being in development. However, the lawsuit claims that many of those plans failed to materialize. The plaintiffs alleged that Gomez entered into an agreement to promote Wondermind but did not fulfill her obligations under the contract. They also claimed that expected partnerships and revenue opportunities never came to fruition and that the company’s planned app was never developed. The investors further alleged that they remained unaware of the extent of Wondermind’s financial and operational difficulties for more than three years. According to the lawsuit, the company’s internal problems became widely known after a 2025 report by The Cut detailed allegations from former employees. Wondermind reportedly experienced a major financial crisis and laid off around 60 percent of its workforce in May 2025. Former employees cited in the report made allegations about Teefey’s conduct and claimed there were serious problems inside the company. Some former staff members made allegations involving drug use and described what they claimed was an unstable working environment. One former employee reportedly referred to Teefey’s office using a highly damaging description and alleged witnessing her use what they believed was Ritalin. Teefey strongly denied the accusations, describing them as false claims made by disgruntled former employees. Following the publication of the report, the investors said they sought to rescind their investments and recover the money they had put into Wondermind. The lawsuit now places Gomez, Teefey, Pierson and the company at the center of a legal dispute over whether investors were properly informed about Wondermind’s financial condition. The allegations remain claims made in the lawsuit and have not been established as facts in court. The legal proceedings could determine whether the investors’ accusations have merit and whether they are entitled to recover their investment.

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    Israeli airstrikes kill 18 in Gaza as ceasefire hopes face fresh setback

    Gaza: Israeli airstrikes struck multiple areas across the Gaza Strip for the second consecutive day on Sunday, leaving at least 18 Palestinians dead and several others injured, according to Palestinian health officials. The renewed violence came despite recent diplomatic efforts led by the United States aimed at advancing last year’s ceasefire agreement and reducing tensions in the region. Medical officials reported that Israeli fighter jets carried out strikes in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, and Khan Younis in the south. The attacks marked one of the deadliest days in recent weeks, with residential buildings, tents sheltering displaced families, and civilian vehicles among the locations hit. The escalation occurred only days after US President Donald Trump announced what he described as a significant breakthrough in efforts to revive the ceasefire agreement. His statement suggested that Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups had agreed in principle to disarm, raising hopes of progress toward ending the prolonged conflict. However, Israeli officials quickly expressed skepticism over the proposed disarmament plan. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet, said Israel was prepared to give Hamas an opportunity to surrender its weapons but doubted the group would follow through. Speaking to Israel’s Army Radio, Cohen stated that no agreement had been reached to halt Israeli military operations in Gaza. He added that if Hamas refused to disarm, Israel could seek full control of the territory, where Israeli forces already maintain control over roughly 70 percent of the enclave. He emphasized that dismantling Hamas remained Israel’s primary objective under its understanding with the United States, describing it as a prerequisite for any lasting political arrangement. Later in the day, Doron Spielman, spokesperson for the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, confirmed that Israel had conveyed its concerns to US officials regarding the proposed roadmap. According to Spielman, Israel insists that Hamas must completely and verifiably disarm before any further steps toward implementing the ceasefire can move forward. Civilian Areas Among Targets Palestinian emergency services reported widespread destruction following Sunday’s airstrikes. In Deir al-Balah, at least four people were killed after an apartment building was struck. Another Israeli attack in the Mawasi area near Khan Younis injured five people and ignited fires in tents housing displaced families. A Palestinian couple and their nine-year-old son were killed when their home in Mawasi was hit. In Gaza City, another couple and their child lost their lives after an apartment was targeted. Medical teams also reported that two people were killed in a strike on a tent located near the Egyptian representative mission in Gaza City. Later in the day, two more fatalities were reported in the eastern Zeitoun neighborhood following another airstrike. In northern Gaza, one person was killed near Jabalia, while a separate strike targeting a vehicle near Saraya Square in Gaza City claimed at least three additional lives. Israeli Military Defends Operations The Israeli military said one of its operations in Deir al-Balah targeted two commanders belonging to Hamas’ elite “Nukhba” force. It also stated that strikes carried out in Gaza City and Jabalia were aimed at what it described as Hamas military operatives, although officials said assessments were still underway regarding the outcomes of those attacks. US-Led Peace Initiative Continues Despite the renewed violence, diplomatic efforts to preserve the ceasefire remain ongoing. The US-led Board of Peace, responsible for overseeing implementation of the ceasefire agreement, released a 15-point roadmap outlining the final stages required to fully enforce the deal. Nickolay Mladenov, the board’s chief envoy for Gaza, expressed concern over the latest escalation, saying the attacks came while mediators were actively working with Palestinian factions to secure agreement on the proposed roadmap. In a statement posted on social media, Mladenov said discussions with regional partners and international mediators were continuing to reduce tensions and create conditions necessary for implementing President Trump’s peace initiative. He stressed that achieving a lasting peace would require sustained commitment from all parties involved. Hamas Accuses Israel of Undermining Talks Hamas maintained that it remained open to negotiations but insisted Israel must first end its military campaign and withdraw forces from Gaza in accordance with the ceasefire agreement before any discussion on surrendering weapons could proceed. Senior Hamas official Basem Naim said the movement had demonstrated “considerable flexibility” during negotiations but accused Israel of escalating attacks in an attempt to weaken diplomatic efforts and impose new realities on the ground through military force. Meanwhile, former senior Fatah official Mohammed Dahlan, who is based in the United Arab Emirates, claimed that Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law and a senior adviser involved in the US initiative, had informed him that discussions were underway with Israeli officials to halt the attacks. According to Dahlan, contacts between US officials and regional mediators continue, but the success of the agreement now depends largely on Israel ending its ongoing military operations in Gaza. The US State Department has not immediately commented on Dahlan’s remarks, while Israeli authorities have yet to issue a formal response. Casualties Continue to Rise According to Gaza health authorities, at least 1,230 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes since the ceasefire agreement reached in October. Hamas has not released figures regarding the number of its fighters killed during the same period. Israeli officials, meanwhile, report that four Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ceasefire came into effect.

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    Lionel Messi breaks Leagues Cup record with stunning brace

    MIAMI: Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest stars, delivering a brilliant two-goal performance to guide Inter Miami to a thrilling 4-2 victory over Atletico San Luis in their opening Leagues Cup 2026 group-stage match on Wednesday. The Argentine captain etched his name into the tournament’s history by becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in the Leagues Cup. His latest brace took his tally to 14 goals, surpassing every player to have featured in the competition between Major League Soccer (MLS) and Mexico’s Liga MX clubs. Inter Miami’s evening did not begin as planned. Atletico San Luis stunned the home crowd when David Rodriguez found the net in just the fourth minute, giving the visitors an early advantage. However, Messi wasted little time responding, calmly equalising only seven minutes later to restore confidence for the hosts. The momentum quickly shifted in Miami’s favour. Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia completed the turnaround in the 26th minute with a well-taken goal after sustained pressure from the home side. Just before the halftime whistle, Messi struck again with a trademark finish, extending Miami’s lead and putting the match firmly under their control. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Brazilian defender Micael added another goal, capping off an outstanding opening 45 minutes as Inter Miami entered the break with a commanding 4-1 advantage. Although Rafa Llorente pulled one back for Atletico San Luis in the second half, the visitors were unable to mount a serious comeback as Miami comfortably saw out the contest to collect all three points. Messi’s latest performance highlighted his enduring quality and his ability to influence major matches. Since arriving in Florida in 2023, the Argentine icon has transformed Inter Miami into one of North America’s most competitive clubs, leading them to their first Leagues Cup title that same year. Elsewhere in the Leagues Cup, Dallas secured a 2-0 victory over Queretaro, while Leon claimed a narrow 1-0 away win over Nashville in another tightly contested fixture. With Messi in record-breaking form and Inter Miami starting their campaign in style, the 2026 Leagues Cup promises more excitement as the tournament progresses.

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