pakistan muslim countries
| | |

Pakistan, 7 muslim countries condemn Israel over G…

Pakistan and seven other Muslim countries have condemned Israel’s reported rejection of the Gaza peace plan, warning that opposition to a political settlement could undermine efforts to end the conflict and achieve lasting regional peace.

A joint statement issued by Pakistan, Egypt, Türkiye, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates said Israel’s rejection of the Gaza plan and Palestinian statehood was damaging peace efforts.

The countries expressed concern over attempts to prevent implementation of the comprehensive plan and stressed the need for immediate action to end the war in Gaza. They also called for measures to address the humanitarian crisis and support reconstruction and recovery in the territory.

The statement reaffirmed support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The eight countries rejected any attempt to prevent or deny Palestinian statehood, saying a two-state solution remains the path toward a fair and lasting peace.

They backed the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The countries also urged all parties to cooperate on the second phase of the Gaza plan and called for concrete steps toward implementing the Gaza roadmap.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Tiny kurtas and Y2K trends dominate summer fashion

    Pakistani fashion influencers are embracing a fresh wave of nostalgic style this summer, with Y2K-inspired outfits, tiny kurtas, polka dots and fusion dressing emerging as some of the season’s biggest trends. Rather than recreating early-2000s fashion exactly as it was, creators are blending vintage influences with contemporary styling, giving classic pieces a modern update. Across Instagram, influencers are moving away from heavily embellished looks in favour of versatile wardrobe staples that can be styled for both casual and dressy occasions. The result is a mix of timeless silhouettes, tailored basics and playful colours that reflect nostalgia while remaining practical for everyday wear. One of the standout trends making a strong comeback is the tiny kurta. Popular during the late 1990s and early 2000s, the short kurta has returned with a modern twist. Fashion creators are pairing it with straight-leg jeans, tailored trousers, capri pants and flowing skirts, creating looks that combine traditional Eastern wear with contemporary styling. The trend has reminded many fashion enthusiasts of classic Bollywood wardrobes from the early 2000s while fitting naturally into today’s minimalist aesthetic. Instead of heavily embroidered designs, influencers are opting for clean cuts and understated styling that allow the silhouette to take centre stage. Another pattern enjoying renewed popularity is the polka dot. After several seasons dominated by florals and abstract prints, the timeless motif has returned on dresses, matching co-ord sets and separates. The classic print offers a vintage-inspired feel without appearing outdated, proving that certain fashion elements continue to return in new forms. Summer wardrobes are also embracing a colour palette inspired by Y2K fashion. Shades such as butter yellow, cherry red, chocolate brown, powder blue and soft pink are appearing frequently across influencer feeds, bringing warmth and nostalgia to seasonal outfits. Accessories like headbands and capri trousers have also quietly re-entered fashion conversations, although in more refined ways than their original early-2000s versions. While nostalgic pieces are attracting attention, wardrobe basics remain equally important this season. Oversized button-down shirts, classic waistcoats, relaxed tailoring and crisp white shirts have become essential styling pieces. Influencers are layering these staples over denim or pairing them with tailored trousers to create polished everyday looks. Perhaps the defining feature of this summer’s fashion movement is fusion dressing. Rather than separating Eastern and Western clothing, creators are combining them effortlessly. Tiny kurtas are styled with denim, waistcoats are worn with skirts, blazers are layered over traditional separates, while shalwars are paired with fitted tank tops and contemporary accessories. Instead of chasing fast-changing microtrends, many Pakistani influencers appear to be focusing on clothing that offers longevity and versatility. By blending nostalgic Y2K influences with classic tailoring and traditional silhouettes, they are creating wardrobes that feel both fashionable and wearable, making this summer less about dramatic statements and more about timeless personal style.

  • |

    South Korea’s Bankware Global secures Rs1.57 billion Pakistan Post Contract

    ISLAMABAD: South Korean core banking and financial technology company Bankware Global has secured a contract worth 7.98 billion South Korean won, equivalent to approximately Rs1.57 billion, to develop a banking and financial services system and provide software for Pakistan Post Office Department (PPOD). The Seoul-based technology company disclosed the development in a notice submitted to the Korea Exchange on Tuesday, marking a significant expansion of its presence in Pakistan’s financial technology and public-sector digitalisation market. According to the company, the project will be implemented from August 7, 2026, to March 6, 2028. The value of the contract represents around 12.6% of Bankware Global’s total sales recorded during 2025. The company said the project would be executed through a joint venture, with the arrangement covering the development and supply of the required technology infrastructure and software solutions for the Pakistan Post Office Department. Bankware Global also outlined the payment mechanism for the project. Under the agreed terms, 20% of the contract amount will be paid upfront, while the remaining 80% will be released in phases. Subsequent payments will be linked to project implementation, sector-wise inspection and the commencement of operations and maintenance services. Pakistan Post seeks digital transformation The contract comes as Pakistan Post continues efforts to modernise its operations and introduce greater use of digital technologies across its extensive network. The Pakistan Post Office Department is one of the country’s largest public-sector service networks, with approximately 13,000 post offices operating across Pakistan. Besides traditional postal services, the department provides a range of financial and public services, including domestic and international mail, remittance facilities, utility bill collection and selected identity-related services such as CNIC renewals. With the growing demand for faster and technology-driven financial services, Pakistan Post has been seeking to upgrade its systems and integrate modern digital platforms into its operations. The introduction of a modern core banking and financial technology system is expected to support more efficient processing, improve service delivery and strengthen the department’s ability to manage financial transactions through its widespread network. Bankware Global expands international footprint Bankware Global has been operating in the financial technology sector for more than 17 years. The South Korean company specialises in core banking platforms and other technology solutions designed for financial institutions. Its portfolio includes component-based and cloud-native core banking systems, financial enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions, card-processing platforms and software-as-a-service (SaaS) banking products. The company has supplied technology solutions to financial institutions in several Asian markets, positioning it as a regional player in the digital banking and fintech sector. The Pakistan Post project is expected to further strengthen Bankware Global’s international business portfolio while providing the company with an opportunity to participate in Pakistan’s ongoing digital transformation efforts. For Pakistan Post, the project could represent an important step toward upgrading its technological infrastructure and improving the delivery of financial and public services through its nationwide network. The contract will remain in force until March 6, 2028, with implementation and payments scheduled according to the agreed project milestones.

  • | |

    Population boom demands governance reset: DG ISPR

    Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on Friday said Pakistan’s rapid population growth requires a serious review of the country’s governance and administrative structure to ensure it continues to meet the nation’s needs. Speaking at a news conference, the military spokesperson noted that Pakistan’s population had increased from around 70 to 80 million in 1972 to nearly 250 million today, while the country’s administrative framework had largely remained unchanged. He said such a significant rise in population made it necessary to assess whether the existing system was still capable of delivering effective governance and public services. The DG ISPR stressed that improving governance was essential for national security and stability, adding that unresolved issues indicated the need for reforms. However, he emphasized that any changes to the administrative structure must be introduced through constitutional and democratic processes. He said the decision on governance reforms or administrative restructuring should reflect the aspirations of the people rather than individual opinions. Lt Gen Chaudhry also highlighted that Pakistan’s youth now make up the largest segment of the population and urged political leaders to focus on improving governance while guiding the public through constructive political dialogue. He reiterated that lasting solutions to the country’s governance challenges could only be achieved through constitutional means and in accordance with the will of the people.

  • | | |

    Iran says US military weaker as Hormuz crisis deep…

    TEHRAN: Iran has intensified its rhetoric against the United States as attacks on commercial shipping and stalled peace efforts deepen uncertainty over the future of the war, with Tehran warning that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless Washington accepts its conditions. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, an adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said in an interview with PBS that the US military had proved “weaker than what we perceived” during the five-month conflict. Naqdi said Iran had gained valuable battlefield experience during the war and claimed Tehran would continue to emerge victorious. “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain,” he said, arguing that Iranian forces had learned how to confront the US military through direct experience. His comments came as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz dropped sharply. Shipping data showed only eight vessels were tracked through the waterway on Tuesday, below a 10-day average of about 12 and the lowest daily figure since August 5. Before the conflict, the strait typically handled around 130 to 140 vessels a day. The slowdown has heightened fears over global energy supplies because Hormuz is a crucial route for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The International Maritime Organization has previously warned of serious risks to vessels and seafarers operating in the area. Shipping attacks raise fresh alarm Tensions also spread to other maritime chokepoints. Four crew members were reportedly killed in a suspected Houthi attack on a cargo vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while two Yemeni rescuers were also killed, according to reports cited in the source material. The US military separately said an MH-60 helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at a Panama-flagged cargo ship after the vessel allegedly ignored warnings linked to a blockade of Iranian ports. Maritime sources said the incident occurred off Pakistan in the Gulf of Oman. The attacks have added to concerns that the conflict could disrupt shipping routes connecting the Gulf with the Red Sea and beyond. Iran sets conditions for reopening Hormuz Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would not reopen unless Washington agreed to Tehran’s demands, including the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to conflicts across the region. Iran’s parliament is also preparing legislation that would restrict military and commercial vessels from countries Tehran considers hostile from entering the Gulf without Iranian authorisation. The proposed law is intended to strengthen Iran’s control over the strategically important waterway. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has continued to combine threats with suggestions that negotiations could eventually produce a settlement. He has claimed the United States has control over the Strait and warned Iran against further escalation. Oil markets have already reacted to the uncertainty. Brent crude rose 1.4 per cent to $88.91 a barrel, while US crude gained 1.3pc to $83.20. Pakistan seeks diplomatic space Amid the worsening security situation, Pakistan has continued diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Iran and met President Masoud Pezeshkian, with both sides stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral political, economic, trade, cultural and security ties. Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s commitment to closer relations and said Tehran was ready to expand cooperation with Islamabad. Naqvi said his visit was aimed at following up on understandings reached between the two countries and accelerating implementation of existing agreements. With military rhetoric rising, shipping routes under pressure and negotiations at an apparent impasse, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of a crisis whose consequences could extend far beyond the Middle East.

  • | |

    Oil tankers call off immediate strike as petroleum…

    A potential nationwide disruption to fuel transportation has been temporarily put on hold after Pakistan’s Petroleum Minister agreed to meet representatives of the Oil Tankers Contractors Association following the group’s 72-hour ultimatum. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 27, where both sides are expected to discuss the association’s long-standing demands and explore ways to prevent a countrywide strike. During a joint press conference, leaders of the Pakistan Oil Tankers and Contractors Association said they had repeatedly raised their concerns with the authorities over the past year and a half. They stated that if the government accepts their demands, they will formally announce the decision. However, if negotiations fail, they will unveil their next course of action, which could include a nationwide suspension of oil tanker operations. The association is demanding an immediate end to commercial loading practices and an increase in transportation rates. According to the representatives, oil tanker freight charges have remained unchanged for the past three years despite a sharp rise in operating expenses. They also pointed out that motorway and National Highway Authority (NHA) toll taxes have increased by nearly 180 percent during the same period, making current transport rates financially unsustainable. Association leaders further alleged that despite months of negotiations and official correspondence, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and the Petroleum Division failed to address their concerns, leaving them with no option but to threaten industrial action. The outcome of Monday’s meeting is expected to determine whether the dispute is resolved through dialogue or escalates into a nationwide strike that could affect fuel transportation and supply across the country.

  • | |

    US expands import blacklist over Chinese forced la…

    The United States has banned imports from 43 additional Chinese companies over alleged human rights abuses and forced labour involving Uyghurs and other minority groups in the Xinjiang region. The decision marks the largest single expansion of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List since its enactment in December 2021, bringing the total number of restricted entities from 144 to 187. Newly blacklisted firms span electronics, lithium, metals, pharmaceuticals, and food sectors, including major capacitor manufacturer Hunan Aihua Group and exporter Chacha Food Co, which US officials accuse of sourcing materials or recruiting personnel through state-backed forced labour programmes. While US Customs and Border Protection has intercepted more than 24,300 shipments valued at nearly $1 billion under the law, the Chinese embassy in Washington has rejected the allegations, maintaining that workers of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang freely choose their employment and receive equal remuneration.

Leave a Reply

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