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Rome to host US-mediated Israel-Lebanon negotiations on southern pilot zones

ByJustpaste.in

Technical delegations from Israel and Lebanon will assemble in Rome from August 4 to 6 for a fresh round of United States-brokered talks designed to advance the implementation of their bilateral framework agreement.

First disclosed by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and subsequently confirmed by the US State Department, the upcoming dialogue will address the expansion of designated pilot zones in southern Lebanon alongside broader border resolutions and long-term peace objectives.

The core terms of the underlying framework deal, established after conflict flared between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in March, require a cessation of hostilities, the disarming of Hezbollah, the national deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and a structured, phased withdrawal of Israeli forces commencing from two initial pilot areas.

Negotiators aim to leverage early operational data from these initial zones to refine the broader security rollout and facilitate a progressive expansion of government control throughout the border region.

The upcoming diplomatic round occurs amidst friction on the ground, with the Lebanese military recently condemning persistent Israeli artillery shelling and strikes in southern territory, cautioning that continued operations directly impede the full deployment of state troops outlined in the agreement.

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    NDMA issues 48-hour flood alert as Chenab rises

    ByJustpaste.in

    The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of an elevated flood risk in several parts of Pakistan as heavy monsoon rains continue across the country. The authority has placed relevant departments on alert and warned that the next 24 to 48 hours could bring flooding in riverine, urban and mountainous areas. The NDMA said medium-level flooding has been recorded in the Chenab River at Khanki, Qadirabad and Chiniot Bridge. The Palkhu Nullah in Wazirabad is also experiencing medium-level flooding. Low-level flooding has been reported at several other locations. These include Kalabagh, Chashma and Taunsa on the Indus River. Marala and Trimmu on the Chenab are also experiencing low-level flooding. Similar conditions have been observed at Balloki and Sidhnai on the Ravi River and Nowshera on the Kabul River. The situation along the Chenab remains a major concern. The NDMA said water levels are expected to rise further over the next 24 hours at Marala, Khanki, Qadirabad and Chiniot Bridge. Water levels at Trimmu Barrage are also expected to reach medium flood levels during the same period. The authority has warned of possible flash floods in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, seasonal streams in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and parts of northern Balochistan over the next two days. Several cities are also facing the risk of urban flooding due to continued heavy rainfall. The areas at risk include Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Jhang, Multan, Hafizabad and Lahore. The NDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel in flood-prone areas. Motorists have been urged to check weather forecasts and road conditions before travelling. The authority has directed provincial and district administrations to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of vulnerable locations. Emergency response teams have also been asked to remain ready for immediate deployment. Authorities have been instructed to restore roads quickly if flooding or other weather-related incidents cause closures. The NDMA also warned about landslides, debris flows and sudden flash floods in mountainous areas. People have been advised to stay away from riverbanks, steep slopes and narrow mountain passages where landslides or falling rocks could occur. Citizens have also been warned against attempting to cross flooded roads, streams or rapidly moving water. The authority stressed that even shallow floodwater can sweep away vehicles and people. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued similar warnings. It said most major rivers are currently flowing at normal or low flood levels, while the Chenab at Qadirabad and Chiniot remains at medium flood level. The weather department also warned that southeastern Sindh could face urban or rainwater flooding over the next 24 to 36 hours. Flash flooding is also possible in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan and northeastern Balochistan.

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    Beijing battles torrential rain as flood threat gr…

    ByJustpaste.in

    BEIJING: Beijing was thrown into weather-alert mode on Wednesday as torrential rain linked to Typhoon Dolphin disrupted transport, closed tourist attractions and forced authorities to evacuate people from areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides. The Chinese capital suspended 250 bus routes and ordered trains on 10 subway lines to operate at reduced speeds as heavy rain turned several roads into virtual rivers. Authorities also halted sightseeing boat services and temporarily closed tourist and camping sites, according to state media. The downpour was part of a wider weather system generated by the remnants of Dolphin, the strongest typhoon to hit China this year. Although the storm weakened after making landfall, its vast moisture system continued moving inland, bringing intense rainfall to northern and central parts of the country. Beijing’s Changping district recorded 90.7 millimetres of rain in just one hour after 9am on Wednesday, highlighting the intensity of the storm. Floodwaters left vehicles stranded and disrupted traffic on major roads. Authorities moved residents from mountainous villages, low-lying communities and other locations considered vulnerable to flooding and geological disasters. More than 5,000 elderly people were also evacuated from care facilities as officials stepped up emergency preparations. Construction work across thousands of sites was suspended, while reservoirs were releasing water in advance to create additional capacity for incoming rainfall. The National Meteorological Center renewed an orange rainstorm alert, warning that heavy rain would continue across a broad area of China through Thursday morning. The latest weather emergency has revived concerns over the growing impact of extreme rainfall and flooding in China. Scientists have increasingly linked more intense weather events to climate change, while the 2026 El Niño pattern is also contributing to warmer conditions and stronger tropical systems. For Beijing residents, the immediate priority remains staying away from flooded roads, rivers and mountainous areas as authorities monitor rainfall and prepare for further disruption.

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    AJK polling extended amid disruptions and security…

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    Polling in the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections was extended by one hour on Monday. Voting in Bhimber, Mirpur and Kotli continued until 6pm. The extension was announced as several polling stations faced disruptions and complaints. Political parties also raised concerns about alleged interference and security issues during the voting process. The first phase of the AJK elections covers all 13 constituencies of Mirpur Division. The division includes four seats in Mirpur, three in Bhimber and six in Kotli. More than 1.4 million registered voters are eligible to cast their votes in the first phase. Election authorities established 2,454 polling stations and 3,701 polling booths across the division. Around 22,000 election officials were assigned duties to manage the polling process. Security was also increased at polling stations across the region. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) raised several complaints during the day. PPP AJK Election Cell in-charge Sardar Abdul Shakoor called on the Election Commission to take immediate notice of disruptions at polling stations. Polling at Station 108 in LA-13 Kotli-VI was reportedly suspended for around two hours. Shakoor said the interruption was affecting voters and preventing them from exercising their right to vote. He demanded that polling be restored immediately. He also called for an investigation into the reasons behind the suspension. The PPP also alleged interference at several polling stations in LA-8 Raj Mahal and LA-12 Charhoi. The party claimed that some PML-N supporters were attempting to influence the polling process. The allegations included the presence of armed individuals near some polling stations. The PPP demanded stronger security arrangements to protect voters, polling staff and election material. Another serious incident was reported in LA-9 Nikyal. A PPP worker was killed during an incident that the party linked to alleged intimidation and the display of weapons. PPP officials identified the deceased as 35-year-old Mukhtar Younus. The party demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the incident. Shakoor alleged that weapons had been displayed in the area before polling day. He claimed that timely action by the authorities could have prevented the situation from worsening. The PPP also accused the federal government of interfering in the AJK elections. PPP Secretary General Nadeem Afzal Chan demanded that federal officials and government machinery remain neutral during the electoral process. He said political parties should be allowed to compete without outside interference. Chan also raised concerns over alleged use of state resources during the election campaign. He called for development announcements and other government activities that could influence voters to be stopped during the election period. The PPP has established an election monitoring cell in Islamabad. Senior party leaders are monitoring polling-related complaints through the cell. The monitoring team is also maintaining contact with election officials, district administrations, candidates and party representatives. The PPP said the purpose of the cell was to monitor the election process and report any violations. Meanwhile, the Election Commission took action against two presiding officers in Kotli. The officials were accused of failing to report to their assigned polling stations. They allegedly went to a private residence instead. An FIR was registered against both officials. They were arrested and later suspended from service. Election authorities said strict action would be taken against officials who violate election rules. They also warned that negligence and irregularities in the polling process would not be tolerated. Security remained a major focus during polling. Authorities declared 1,965 polling stations sensitive or highly sensitive. More than 19,000 security personnel were deployed across Mirpur Division. The force included around 17,000 police personnel. Around 2,100 Army personnel were also kept on standby. They could be deployed as a backup force if the security situation deteriorated. Despite the complaints and isolated incidents, polling continued at most stations. In LA-1 Dadyal, voting began in a peaceful atmosphere. Security arrangements were strengthened around all polling stations in the constituency. More than 105,000 voters are registered in Dadyal. The constituency has 139 polling stations and 234 polling booths. The first phase of the elections is being held under a revised schedule. Polling in Muzaffarabad Division and the 12 refugee constituencies is scheduled for August 2. The final phase will be held in Poonch Division on August 10. A total of 288 candidates are contesting the 13 seats in Mirpur Division. Election authorities have urged candidates, workers and voters to maintain peace and follow the electoral code of conduct.

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    Security forces eliminate militants in KP intellig…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Security forces have intensified intelligence-based operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past two months, resulting in the killing of multiple militants and the destruction of several militant hideouts, according to security sources. The operations were conducted under Operation 11 Gurj, which is aimed at dismantling militant networks and preventing terrorist activities in the province. During the campaign, security forces carried out a series of targeted raids based on intelligence reports in different districts. According to the sources, several militants were killed during these operations, while their hideouts were successfully destroyed. The forces also apprehended a number of suspected facilitators believed to have been providing logistical and operational support to militant groups. Security personnel recovered a large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other military equipment during the raids. Officials said the seized material was intended to be used in future terrorist attacks. One of the major operations was conducted in the Shakro area of Bajaur district, where security forces targeted militant hideouts after receiving credible intelligence. Reports indicated that several militants were killed, while others sustained injuries during the operation. The forces also located and destroyed multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found in the area. Officials said eliminating these explosives helped prevent potential attacks and improved the safety of local residents. Ground troops, supported by quadcopter surveillance, were used throughout the operations to identify militant positions and monitor movements before launching precise strikes. Security officials said the use of modern surveillance technology enhanced the effectiveness of the operations and reduced risks to security personnel. According to security sources, the operations form part of an ongoing campaign to eliminate militant infrastructure, disrupt terrorist networks and strengthen peace and stability across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Authorities reiterated that intelligence-based operations will continue until all militant elements are dismantled and the security situation is fully brought under control.

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    Ancient Roman shipwreck found off Sicily carrying hundreds of 2,000-year-old amphorae

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    Italian authorities have uncovered an ancient Roman merchant ship off the coast of Sicily, dating back to the 2nd or 1st Century BC. The vessel was discovered lying 46 metres underwater roughly three nautical miles off Mazara del Vallo. Measuring 21 metres long and 6 metres wide, the vessel’s cargo holds remain piled with hundreds of well-preserved amphorae, primarily Dressel 1A ceramic jars used during the late Roman Republic to transport commodities such as wine, olive oil, and grain. Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli described the site as “one of the most important underwater archaeological discoveries of recent years”. Local fisherman and free-diver Giacomo De Mola first flagged the site after detecting an anomaly on his sonar scanner that resembled a massive reef or rock. Upon diving down to investigate, he encountered the intact cargo mound surrounded by marine life. Following De Mola’s report, specialist divers from the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Heritage (Carabinieri Art Squad), working alongside the Sicilian Region’s Superintendency of the Sea, were dispatched to survey and document the seabed. Archaeologists also identified two lead anchor stocks alongside the vessel’s structure. Italian maritime authorities have implemented security measures to safeguard the wreckage from illicit looting while further documentation and cargo analysis take place.

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    ICCI awards in Istanbul highlight new opportunities for Pakistan-Turkiye economic partnership

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    ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has used a series of high-level engagements in Istanbul to promote Pakistan’s private sector, recognise leading entrepreneurs and strengthen commercial ties between Pakistan and Turkiye. The ICCI International Excellence Awards 2026 brought together Turkish government representatives, diplomats, business leaders and members of the Pakistani and Turkish business communities, providing a platform to highlight the contribution of Pakistani entrepreneurs while exploring opportunities for greater bilateral trade and investment. Around 40 Pakistani business leaders representing a range of sectors were honoured at the awards ceremony for their contributions to the country’s economy and private-sector development, according to a press release issued on Saturday. The event also provided an opportunity for business representatives from both countries to discuss the potential for expanded commercial cooperation, investment partnerships and joint ventures. Turkish officials stress stronger business links Addressing the ceremony, Istanbul Deputy Governor Mehmet Sulun said initiatives bringing together business communities from Pakistan and Turkiye could play an important role in expanding people-to-people and business-to-business contacts. He said stronger interaction between entrepreneurs could create fresh opportunities in trade, investment and joint ventures while contributing to deeper ties between the two countries. Sulun observed that business leaders played a role beyond commercial activity, describing them as important contributors to friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations. He expressed confidence that the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Turkiye would continue to develop and remain strong for future generations. Pakistan’s Consul General in Istanbul Khawaja Khurram Naeem also emphasised the importance of expanding direct links between the private sectors of the two countries. He said political and fraternal relations needed to be complemented by stronger commercial engagement if Pakistan and Turkiye were to significantly increase bilateral trade and investment. Naeem assured Pakistani business representatives that Pakistan’s diplomatic mission would continue supporting initiatives aimed at improving commercial cooperation and facilitating interaction between entrepreneurs from both countries. ICCI seeks expansion in trade and investment In his opening remarks, ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood highlighted the longstanding historical, cultural and fraternal relationship between Pakistan and Turkiye. He said the two countries had strong political and people-to-people relations, but the economic relationship had considerable room for further expansion. Mehmood reaffirmed the ICCI’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at increasing bilateral trade and investment in line with the ambitions of the leadership of both countries. He said the chamber was working to establish itself as an international platform connecting Pakistani businesses with global markets and partners. According to Mehmood, the ICCI is focusing on promoting Pakistani exports, attracting investment and developing international business partnerships while coordinating with government departments and other relevant institutions to improve the business environment. He stressed that greater ease of doing business and stronger institutional support would help Pakistani companies compete more effectively in international markets. Turkish chamber backs institutional cooperation Munir Ustun, a member of the Executive Board of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, welcomed efforts to bring the Pakistani and Turkish business communities closer. He stressed the importance of stronger institutional relationships between chambers and private-sector organisations in both countries. Ustun said regular business delegations, business-to-business meetings and joint commercial initiatives could help identify areas where cooperation could be expanded. He noted that significant untapped potential existed in bilateral trade and investment and that closer engagement between businesses could help turn that potential into concrete commercial projects. Faisal Town Group Director Zohair Majeed said the international recognition given to Pakistani entrepreneurs demonstrated the capability and resilience of the country’s private sector. He said Pakistani companies had the potential to compete in international markets and argued that stronger partnerships with Turkish businesses could create opportunities in investment, technology transfer and exports. According to Majeed, greater cooperation between businesses could also contribute to sustainable economic growth and help Pakistani companies gain access to new markets and technologies. Pakistan-Turkiye economic ties discussed at Independence Day event The ICCI delegation also participated in a separate event in Istanbul to mark Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, where Pakistani and Turkish business representatives reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic cooperation. Speaking at the gathering, Mehmood said Pakistan’s independence had been achieved after enormous sacrifices by the country’s founding generation. He called on citizens and the business community to contribute to national development by promoting economic growth, investment and entrepreneurship. Mehmood said Pakistan and Turkiye shared decades of historical, cultural and fraternal ties, adding that the longstanding relationship should increasingly be reflected in stronger economic cooperation. He called for greater participation by the private sectors of both countries in trade, investment and joint ventures. The ICCI president said the chamber would continue to provide platforms where Pakistani and Turkish entrepreneurs could meet, explore commercial opportunities and develop long-term partnerships. Turkish business representatives also reiterated their commitment to deepening the relationship with Pakistan, particularly through increased trade, investment and direct business-to-business engagement. Business conference explores investment opportunities The economic engagement was further strengthened through a Business Opportunity Conference in Istanbul, which brought together business leaders from both countries to examine potential areas for cooperation. Participants discussed opportunities for expanding bilateral trade, establishing joint ventures, attracting investment and creating stronger business-to-business connections. Pakistan’s Consul General in Istanbul Khawaja Khurram Naeem participated actively in the discussions, responding to questions from Turkish business representatives and outlining Pakistan’s trade and investment potential. He also highlighted developments in the country’s business and investment environment and encouraged Turkish companies to examine opportunities in Pakistan. A significant number of Turkish companies participated in the conference and expressed interest in exploring commercial and investment prospects in Pakistan. During an interactive session, ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, along with former ICCI presidents Aamir Waheed Sheikh and Mohammad Ejaz Abbasi, and Dr Adeel Sami, Founder and President of the Pakistan-Turkiye Investment & Development Council, responded to questions from Turkish entrepreneurs. The discussion focused on practical mechanisms for strengthening commercial links and identifying sectors where Pakistani and Turkish companies could work together. Focus shifts from friendship to economic partnership The events in Istanbul underscored a

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