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    Over 800,000 Lebanese return home amid ongoing border tensions

    More than 800,000 people displaced by the war in Lebanon have started returning to their hometowns and villages as security conditions improve in parts of the country. However, the humanitarian situation remains severe, with hundreds of thousands still unable to go back because of widespread destruction and ongoing instability. According to the United Nations, more than 360,000 people remain displaced across Lebanon. Around 26,000 of them continue to live in government-run shelters, while many others stay with relatives or in temporary accommodation as they wait for conditions to improve. The UN’s humanitarian agency says the conflict has devastated essential infrastructure, particularly in southern Lebanon. Damage to water supply systems and electricity networks has left more than 700,000 people without reliable access to clean drinking water, raising concerns about public health and increasing the need for humanitarian assistance. The war has taken a heavy human toll. Israeli military operations have killed more than 4,300 people and forced over one million residents to flee their homes since the conflict escalated. Entire neighborhoods and villages in southern Lebanon have suffered extensive destruction, making it difficult for many returning families to rebuild their lives. Large areas in southern Lebanon remain under Israeli military control, and residents in several border communities continue to face uncertainty despite the gradual return of displaced families. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions have resumed. A new round of US-led talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials began in Rome yesterday and will continue through tomorrow. Negotiators hope the discussions will help strengthen the ceasefire, address security concerns along the border, and create conditions for a broader and more lasting peace.

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    Jennifer Aniston’s changing priorities spark con…

    Jennifer Aniston is reportedly entering a new chapter in her personal life, but not everyone in her inner circle is convinced it is the right move. According to recent reports, the Friends star has been shifting her priorities away from work and placing a greater focus on her personal relationships, a decision that has reportedly prompted concern among some of those closest to her. While Aniston has not publicly addressed the claims, insiders suggest the actress is embracing a slower pace after years of balancing an intense Hollywood career.  A source claimed that Aniston’s priorities have “completely shifted,” with more of her time now dedicated to her relationship with boyfriend Jim Curtis. The report suggests that some friends have advised the actress to “pump the brakes,” expressing concern that she may be making significant life changes too quickly. However, those close to Aniston also acknowledge that she appears genuinely happy and is making decisions she believes are best for her future.  The reported shift comes after Aniston has openly spoken about the importance of achieving a healthier work-life balance. In previous interviews with People, the Emmy-winning actress admitted that she has long considered herself “a bit of a workaholic” and recognized the need to make time for herself after several demanding years. She explained that she has become more intentional about scheduling breaks and protecting her personal time to avoid burnout.  Over the past few years, Aniston has remained one of Hollywood’s busiest stars. In addition to starring in and executive producing Apple TV+’s The Morning Show, she has continued expanding her successful haircare brand, LolaVie, while also pursuing new film and television projects. Her packed schedule has left little room for downtime, making her recent focus on personal happiness understandable.  Despite speculation that her career could take a back seat, there is no indication that Aniston plans to retire from acting. Instead, reports suggest she is simply becoming more selective about the projects she chooses, allowing herself greater flexibility to enjoy life outside of work. Friends and colleagues may have differing opinions about her changing priorities, but Aniston has consistently emphasized that maintaining balance is essential to both her personal well-being and professional success.  Throughout her decades-long career, Aniston has built a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most respected and reliable performers. From her iconic role as Rachel Green on Friends to her award-winning performance in The Morning Show, she has demonstrated remarkable consistency and longevity. That success gives her the freedom to make choices based on fulfillment rather than constant professional ambition. Whether the reported concerns from her inner circle are justified remains unclear, as they are based on anonymous sources rather than public statements from the actress herself. What is evident, however, is that Jennifer Aniston has become increasingly vocal about protecting her peace, valuing meaningful relationships, and creating a healthier balance between work and life. If those priorities continue to shape her future, they may ultimately strengthen both her personal happiness and her enduring career.  Jennifer Aniston is reportedly entering a new chapter in her personal life, but not everyone in her inner circle is convinced it is the right move. According to recent reports, the Friends star has been shifting her priorities away from work and placing a greater focus on her personal relationships, a decision that has reportedly prompted concern among some of those closest to her. While Aniston has not publicly addressed the claims, insiders suggest the actress is embracing a slower pace after years of balancing an intense Hollywood career.  A source claimed that Aniston’s priorities have “completely shifted,” with more of her time now dedicated to her relationship with boyfriend Jim Curtis. The report suggests that some friends have advised the actress to “pump the brakes,” expressing concern that she may be making significant life changes too quickly. However, those close to Aniston also acknowledge that she appears genuinely happy and is making decisions she believes are best for her future.  The reported shift comes after Aniston has openly spoken about the importance of achieving a healthier work-life balance. In previous interviews with People, the Emmy-winning actress admitted that she has long considered herself “a bit of a workaholic” and recognized the need to make time for herself after several demanding years. She explained that she has become more intentional about scheduling breaks and protecting her personal time to avoid burnout.  Over the past few years, Aniston has remained one of Hollywood’s busiest stars. In addition to starring in and executive producing Apple TV+’s The Morning Show, she has continued expanding her successful haircare brand, LolaVie, while also pursuing new film and television projects. Her packed schedule has left little room for downtime, making her recent focus on personal happiness understandable.  Despite speculation that her career could take a back seat, there is no indication that Aniston plans to retire from acting. Instead, reports suggest she is simply becoming more selective about the projects she chooses, allowing herself greater flexibility to enjoy life outside of work. Friends and colleagues may have differing opinions about her changing priorities, but Aniston has consistently emphasized that maintaining balance is essential to both her personal well-being and professional success.  Throughout her decades-long career, Aniston has built a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most respected and reliable performers. From her iconic role as Rachel Green on Friends to her award-winning performance in The Morning Show, she has demonstrated remarkable consistency and longevity. That success gives her the freedom to make choices based on fulfillment rather than constant professional ambition. Whether the reported concerns from her inner circle are justified remains unclear, as they are based on anonymous sources rather than public statements from the actress herself. What is evident, however, is that Jennifer Aniston has become increasingly vocal about protecting her peace, valuing meaningful relationships, and creating a healthier balance between work and life. If those priorities continue to shape her future, they may ultimately strengthen both her personal happiness and her enduring career. 

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    Brandon King injured after brilliant Babar Azam run-out

    TRINIDAD: West Indies endured a significant setback on day three of the second Test against Pakistan after opener Brandon King was forced off the field with a painful lower back injury moments after producing a brilliant run-out to dismiss Babar Azam. The dramatic incident unfolded during Pakistan’s first innings when Babar, who resumed play on an overnight score of 84, looked well placed to end his long wait for a Test century. However, a costly mix-up with fellow batter Abdullah Shafique brought his innings to an abrupt end. Attempting a quick single after guiding the ball into the off side, Babar found himself stranded halfway down the pitch as King reacted sharply from cover. The West Indies fielder gathered the ball cleanly and unleashed a direct hit that caught the Pakistan star well short of his crease. While the dismissal gave the hosts a much-needed breakthrough, it came at a heavy price. King appeared to injure his lower back during the throwing action and immediately collapsed to the ground in visible pain. Medical staff rushed onto the field, and after several minutes of treatment, the 31-year-old was taken off on a stretcher, leaving teammates and spectators concerned. Cricket West Indies later confirmed that King had suffered lower back muscle spasms and would take no further part in day three’s play as a precaution. Team officials added that his condition would continue to be monitored by the medical staff before a decision is made on his availability for the remainder of the match. Earlier in the day, Pakistan resumed on 266-2, with Babar and Abdullah adopting a cautious approach as the West Indies bowling attack maintained disciplined lines and restricted scoring opportunities. The pressure eventually paid off with Babar’s dismissal in the 75th over after he added just two runs to his overnight total. King’s injury has added fresh concern for the West Indies camp at a crucial stage of the Test, with the hosts now awaiting further medical updates while trying to keep Pakistan’s batting lineup under control. The coming days could prove decisive not only for the outcome of the match but also for King’s immediate cricketing future.

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    Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid spark wedding buzz a…

    Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid have become the center of intense wedding speculation after the couple was photographed in Paris wearing matching gold bands on their ring fingers. The new photos quickly sent social media into a frenzy, with many fans wondering whether the Hollywood actor and the supermodel had secretly tied the knot during a private ceremony in Europe. However, despite the growing rumors, neither Cooper nor Hadid has publicly confirmed that they are married.  The couple was spotted enjoying a relaxed outing in Paris, where photographers captured them wearing coordinating gold rings while spending time together. Their matching jewelry immediately caught the attention of fans, who interpreted the bands as possible wedding rings. The appearance has fueled widespread speculation, although representatives for the couple have remained silent on the rumors.  According to People, the rings have been identified as wedding bands from the French luxury jewelry house Boucheron. Hadid was seen wearing the Quatre Radiant Edition Wedding Band, while Cooper wore the Godron Pink Gold Wedding Band. Although the designs are traditionally marketed as wedding rings, wearing them does not necessarily confirm that the pair have exchanged vows.  Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid first sparked romance rumors in October 2023. Since then, the two have gradually become more comfortable sharing glimpses of their relationship in public. Over the past three years, they have attended major events together, traveled across Europe, and supported each other’s careers while largely keeping their romance out of the spotlight.  The latest Paris appearance has only intensified interest in the couple’s relationship. Fashion observers also noted how coordinated their outfits looked throughout the trip, further highlighting how their personal styles have evolved together. While the matching rings became the biggest talking point, many fans also praised the pair’s effortless chemistry during their outings around the French capital.  Despite the excitement, there is currently no official confirmation that Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid have secretly married. Most reports describe the situation as speculation based on the rings and the couple’s recent appearance. Until either star addresses the rumors publicly, the reports of a private European wedding remain unverified.  Whether the rings symbolize marriage, an engagement, or simply a meaningful commitment, one thing is clear: Cooper and Hadid continue to attract attention wherever they go. Their relationship has steadily grown stronger while remaining relatively private, a rarity in Hollywood. For now, fans will have to wait for an official statement. Until then, the mystery surrounding the matching gold bands is likely to keep wedding rumors alive, making Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid one of the entertainment world’s most talked-about couples. 

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    The Odyssey crosses Rs. 183 crore, targets Rs. 200 crore in India

    Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey continues to perform steadily at the Indian box office, maintaining a solid hold even in its third week. The epic drama added an estimated Rs. 2.50 crore gross on its third Tuesday, taking its overall Indian box office collection to approximately Rs. 183 crore gross. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, and Zendaya, the film has remained one of the strongest international performers in the Indian market this year. Despite entering its third week, the movie continues to attract audiences, particularly in premium cinema formats. Based on its current trend, The Odyssey is expected to conclude its third week with around Rs. 187 crore gross. It would then require only about Rs. 13 crore more to reach the coveted Rs. 200 crore mark, a milestone that industry estimates suggest could be achieved by the end of its fourth weekend. If the film continues to perform at its current pace, its lifetime theatrical run in India is projected to exceed Rs. 215 crore gross, making it one of Christopher Nolan’s highest-grossing films in the country. One of the film’s biggest strengths has been its exceptional performance in IMAX theatres. A significant share of its total earnings has come from premium large-format screens, with IMAX collections alone reaching approximately Rs. 60 crore across just 36 screens. This achievement has made The Odyssey the highest-grossing IMAX release ever in India, highlighting the audience’s preference for experiencing Nolan’s visually ambitious storytelling on the biggest screens available. Christopher Nolan’s reputation has once again proven to be a major driving force behind the film’s commercial success. Over the years, the Oscar-winning filmmaker has built a loyal fan base in India, where each of his new releases generates substantial anticipation. His previous films have consistently performed well, and the renewed interest in his work, including the successful re-release of Interstellar, has further strengthened his box office appeal. Interestingly, The Odyssey belongs to a genre that has not traditionally been among the strongest performers in the Indian market. Despite that, Nolan’s storytelling, technical excellence, and large-scale cinematic presentation have helped the film overcome genre limitations and attract audiences across major cities. The film’s box office journey in India has remained consistent throughout its run. It earned Rs. 104.50 crore gross during its opening week, followed by Rs. 55.25 crore gross in the second week. In its third weekend, the movie collected Rs. 4 crore on Friday, Rs. 7 crore on Saturday, and Rs. 7.25 crore on Sunday. It then added an estimated Rs. 2.50 crore each on Monday and Tuesday, bringing the cumulative total to approximately Rs. 183 crore gross. With stable weekday collections and continued support from premium-format screenings, The Odyssey remains on track for another successful weekend. If the momentum continues, the film is expected to comfortably cross the Rs. 200 crore milestone before completing its fourth weekend, further cementing Christopher Nolan’s status as one of the most successful Hollywood filmmakers at the Indian box office.

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    Islamabad to build two new underpasses

    Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters to review the progress of ongoing development projects and approve new infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving Islamabad’s traffic system and public services. During the meeting, officials briefed the minister on the status of several major development schemes and presented plans for upcoming projects across the federal capital. Participants also reviewed timelines for ongoing construction work and discussed measures to ensure projects are completed without unnecessary delays. To ease traffic congestion and improve the flow of vehicles, Mohsin Naqvi announced the construction of two new underpasses at Kashmir Chowk and Faisal Mosque. He said work on both projects will begin next month and emphasized that the government is committed to expanding the city’s road infrastructure to meet growing transportation demands. The interior minister also expressed dissatisfaction over the absence of a fully operational Emergency 1122 service in Islamabad. He directed the relevant authorities to immediately complete all legal and administrative requirements needed to establish the Capital Emergency Services as a fully functional institution. He further instructed officials to launch work on four new emergency response centers on a priority basis to strengthen rescue and emergency services in the capital. In addition to infrastructure development, the meeting focused on improving the CDA’s financial sustainability. Officials discussed proposals to increase the authority’s permanent revenue, develop a long-term revenue model, and implement practical measures that would help the organization achieve greater financial independence. Naqvi stressed that strengthening the CDA’s financial position is just as important as delivering development projects. He also instructed officials to complete the Expressway Service Road project within the approved deadline, saying timely completion of public infrastructure remains a top government priority.

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    Sabalenka storms into Toronto third round, eyes US Open hat-trick

    TORONTO: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka made an emphatic return to hard-court tennis with a straight-sets victory over Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima at the WTA 1000 Toronto Open, reinforcing her status as one of the favourites heading into the North American swing. The Belarusian star defeated qualifier Uchijima 6-3, 6-3 in her opening match on Tuesday, bouncing back strongly after disappointing exits at both the French Open and Wimbledon. The convincing win marked another milestone in Sabalenka’s remarkable hard-court campaign, where she has now won 24 of her last 25 matches on the surface. Her only defeat on hard courts this season came against Elena Rybakina in the Australian Open final, highlighting just how dominant Sabalenka has been throughout the year. Despite the comfortable scoreline, the match was far from straightforward. Uchijima stunned the top seed early by breaking serve in the opening game after recovering from a 40-15 deficit, quickly taking a 2-0 lead. However, Sabalenka responded like a champion, winning the next five games to seize complete control and eventually close out the opening set with authority. The second set proved equally competitive, with both players exchanging five service breaks in an entertaining battle. Sabalenka eventually established a crucial 3-2 advantage before tightening her game at the right moment. She held serve confidently to move ahead 4-2 and later sealed victory on her second match point with a powerful overhead winner. Speaking after the match, Sabalenka expressed satisfaction with both her physical condition and mental approach following a short break from competition. “I’m happy with the performance and the fight. I expected some challenges after the break, but I felt mentally and physically ready,” she said. The victory keeps Sabalenka’s momentum alive as she targets another successful North American campaign, including a possible third consecutive US Open title later this month. Awaiting her in the third round is experienced Chinese player Zhang Shuai, who advanced after Jelena Ostapenko retired while trailing 6-0, 4-0. With confidence growing and hard-court form peaking once again, Sabalenka has sent an early warning to the rest of the field that she is ready to challenge for another major title as the road to New York gathers pace.

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    Police chief: Missing weapon may crack Mir Raza my…

    Karachi Police Chief Azad Khan has said that investigations into the death of Mir Raza are continuing from every possible angle, adding that recovering the missing weapon could be crucial in determining what happened. Speaking to the media, Azad Khan said the initial medical report was prepared by a doctor working under the police surgeon. The medico-legal officer (MLO) examined the body and submitted the report to the police surgeon, who kept it for two days before it was released. He questioned why any concerns regarding the report were not addressed immediately. According to the police chief, the police surgeon neither personally examined the body nor conducted the medical examination, and any reservations about the findings should have been communicated to investigators without delay. Azad Khan said police based their early investigation on the preliminary medico-legal report provided by the MLO. He added that confirmation of gunpowder residue on the deceased’s hands was also essential to the investigation. The police chief said the Crime Scene Unit collected evidence from the scene and handed all relevant material over to the medical team. He also questioned why the medical team did not visit the crime scene, noting that in many countries medical experts inspect the scene themselves, particularly in high-profile cases. He said that if Mir Raza’s family requests it, another medical examination can be conducted. Meanwhile, investigators are looking into the disappearance of the weapon believed to be linked to the case. Azad Khan also confirmed that police are searching for a waste collector seen in a video recorded near the scene. He said locating the missing weapon could help investigators resolve key questions surrounding Mir Raza’s death. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to gather evidence and examine all possible leads.

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    Riteish Deshmukh’s birthday note for Genelia has fans smiling

    Riteish Deshmukh marked wife Genelia Deshmukh’s birthday with a message that was equal parts loving and hilarious. It proved the couple’s chemistry has not dimmed one bit over the years. Genelia turned 39 on August 5. Riteish took to Instagram to celebrate her with a carousel of cherished family photos featuring the couple and their two sons. Alongside the pictures, he shared a note that mixed humour with heartfelt affection. “My dearest Baiko, I was going through all the memories we have shared, curated, and created,” he wrote. “I realized that I am the only one ageing, you seem completely frozen in time.” He added with a laugh, “But then again, I guess you are truly blessed with a good husband.” He wrapped up the tribute on a warmer note. He called Genelia the glue that holds their family together, praising her as a devoted mother, daughter and sister, and ended with a simple “I love you.” Riteish and Genelia’s love story goes back to 2003. They first met on the sets of their debut film Tujhe Meri Kasam. Sparks flew on set, though the two kept their relationship private for years while their careers took off. They dated for a decade before finally getting married on February 3, 2012. The ceremony blended Marathi and Maharashtrian traditions. The couple went on to share the screen again in Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya, delighting fans who had followed their real-life romance from the start. They are now proud parents to sons Riaan and Rahyl. They often give fans glimpses into their close-knit family life on social media, from birthday tributes to candid vacation snaps. Genelia has largely stepped back from acting in recent years to focus on her entrepreneurial ventures. Riteish has stayed busy across films, Marathi cinema production and television. He most recently made headlines for his hosting duties on a reality show. Despite their packed schedules, the two continue to make time to celebrate each other publicly. Fans say it keeps their marriage feeling as fresh as it did when they first met on set over two decades ago. Fans quickly flooded the comments section with birthday wishes for Genelia. They also praised Riteish’s playful yet touching gesture, calling the couple one of Bollywood’s most enduring pairs.

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    Grenade blast kills three in Lakki Marwat

    A family dispute in the Bahram Khel area of Lakki Marwat turned tragic when a hand grenade exploded inside a house, killing three people and injuring three children, police said. According to officials, the explosion occurred during an argument between family members. The powerful blast claimed the lives of a man, his sister-in-law, and his nephew on the spot, while three children suffered injuries of varying severity. Residents rushed to the house after hearing the explosion and alerted rescue teams. Emergency responders reached the scene shortly afterward and shifted the victims to a nearby hospital. Doctors are providing medical treatment to the injured children, while the bodies of the deceased have been handed over for legal formalities. Police cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the explosion. Investigators are examining how the hand grenade came to be inside the house and whether it was intentionally used during the dispute or detonated accidentally. Authorities have begun collecting evidence from the scene and recording statements from family members and witnesses. Officials said they will determine responsibility after completing the investigation and forensic examination. No arrests have been reported so far, and police said further details will emerge as the inquiry progresses.