two israeli soldiers
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Two Israeli soldiers killed in southern Lebanon bl…

ByJustpaste.in

Beirut: The Israeli military has confirmed that two of its soldiers were killed during operations in southern Lebanon, underscoring the continued volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border as cross-border hostilities show little sign of easing.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) identified the slain personnel as Major Harel Baron Stock, 34, a commander, and Sergeant Major Tamir Vaknin, 33. The military said both were killed in an explosion that occurred in the Lebanese town of Majdal Zoun, near the border.

Ishaq Dar offers special prayers for Pakistan in M…

The IDF added that four other soldiers were seriously wounded in the same incident. The injured personnel were evacuated to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving medical treatment. Israeli authorities did not immediately provide further details on the nature of the explosion or whether it was caused by an explosive device or another form of attack.

The incident comes amid continuing Israeli military operations across southern Lebanon, where strikes have intensified in recent months. The border region has witnessed repeated exchanges of fire, increasing fears of a broader escalation that could further destabilize the Middle East.

Lebanese media have reported extensive damage in several southern districts following ongoing Israeli attacks. Large numbers of residents have been displaced, although many families have recently begun returning to their homes despite widespread destruction in affected areas.

Security analysts say the latest casualties highlight the dangers faced by troops operating in the tense border zone, where military activity and intermittent clashes continue to pose risks to both soldiers and civilians.

The deaths of the two Israeli soldiers are likely to renew attention on the fragile security situation along the Israel-Lebanon frontier, as diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions remain limited. With military operations continuing on both sides, concerns persist that any major incident could trigger a wider regional confrontation, further complicating an already volatile conflict.

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    Chilling details of Nancy Guthrie’s first ra…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The investigation into the alleged kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie has taken a chilling turn as details of the first ransom note sent to her family have been revealed. The note, which authorities have described as both genuine and threatening, was addressed to Nancy’s daughter, Savannah, and contained warnings that have left investigators and the public on edge. Crime journalist Briana Whitney, speaking on the Crime Junkie podcast, revealed the terrifying message allegedly sent to Savannah. The most chilling line in the note read: “It is in the best interest of everyone to have this completed as soon as possible.” Whitney, reading from the ransom message, further detailed the captors’ demands: “You will not be able to contact me from here on out. There will be no negotiation. Do not play games. Law enforcement will not be able to help you.” The note, which was sent shortly after Nancy was last seen at home on January 31, has dominated the investigation. While some ransom notes were reportedly deemed to be hoaxes, authorities confirmed that others were genuine, adding to the complexity of the case. Investigators have yet to produce a suspect in the alleged kidnapping, leaving the family and the public seeking answers. The ransom notes have been central to the case, with authorities reportedly keeping many details under wraps to avoid compromising the investigation. However, the release of these chilling details has shed new light on the threats faced by the Guthrie family. The note’s warning that law enforcement would not be able to help and that there would be no negotiation suggests a calculated effort by the captors to isolate Savannah and exert maximum pressure on the family. Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance has sparked widespread concern, with her family making several public pleas for her safe return. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. The release of the ransom note details has reignited public interest in the case, with many hoping that the new information will lead to a breakthrough. As the investigation continues, the Guthrie family remains in the spotlight, their ordeal serving as a stark reminder of the terror faced by families of kidnapping victims. The chilling words of the ransom note have left an indelible mark on the case, underscoring the urgency of finding Nancy and bringing her captors to justice. The public awaits further developments, hoping for a resolution that will bring closure to the family and accountability for those responsible.

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    Government plans major reforms to modernise Pakistan’s construction sector

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The federal government has stepped up efforts to reform Pakistan’s construction industry, with a comprehensive package under consideration to improve regulation, financing, taxation, procurement practices and construction quality. Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Khan Cheema chaired a high-level meeting on Saturday to review proposed reforms aimed at strengthening the construction sector and bringing national practices closer to modern standards. The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Federal Secretary for Housing and Works Captain Mahmood (retd), Managing Director of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), representatives of the Construction Association of Pakistan (CAP) and senior government officials. The discussions focused on developing a coordinated policy framework capable of addressing longstanding regulatory, operational and financial challenges faced by the construction industry. Construction Industry Development Board proposed As part of the proposed reform package, the government is considering the creation of a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) to serve as both a development and regulatory body for the sector. The proposed board would be responsible for supporting the growth of the construction industry while also establishing and enforcing standards for contractors, consultants and other stakeholders. According to the plan discussed at the meeting, the CIDB would include representatives from both the public and private sectors, creating a platform for cooperation between government institutions and industry stakeholders. Senator Ahad Cheema said there was broad agreement between the federal government and CAP on the need for such an institution. He said the government would prepare the proposed framework and present it to the prime minister for approval. The proposed regulatory mechanism is expected to address gaps in the existing system, particularly those relating to professional standards, project quality and accountability. Consultants may face greater accountability One of the major issues discussed during the meeting was the lack of a clear accountability mechanism for consultants involved in public infrastructure projects. Cheema noted that contractors could face penalties for delays, defaults and poor performance, but similar legal and financial consequences were not adequately available for consultants when design or technical shortcomings resulted in project failures. Under the proposed CIDB framework, consultants would come under a more formal regulatory structure. The objective would be to ensure that professionals responsible for project design and technical supervision could also be held accountable for serious errors, design deficiencies or technical mistakes. CAP representatives supported the proposal, maintaining that stronger oversight of consultants would improve the quality of project designs and help safeguard public funds. Defect liability period to be extended The government is also preparing to increase the Defect Liability Period (DLP) for public development projects. At present, the standard liability period is one year. The government plans to initially extend it to three years and subsequently work towards increasing it to five years. Cheema said public infrastructure should remain durable for a considerable period after completion and should not begin deteriorating soon after being handed over. He argued that extending the liability period would create stronger incentives for contractors and executing agencies to maintain quality standards throughout construction. Under a longer liability period, contractors would remain responsible for addressing defects for an extended period, potentially discouraging the use of substandard materials or poor construction practices. The government views the proposed change as an important step towards improving the long-term value of public development spending. Construction development package under consideration The proposed construction industry development package is expected to address several financial and policy constraints currently affecting the sector. The package could include targeted tax reforms, revised import and export policies and incentives aimed at encouraging the adoption of modern construction technologies. Officials also discussed the need to strengthen domestic construction capacity by facilitating access to modern machinery, equipment, materials and technical expertise. The government believes that a more predictable policy environment could encourage greater private investment while supporting the development of local construction companies and suppliers. Proposal for Construction Development Bank Financing challenges faced by construction companies also came under discussion. CAP representatives highlighted difficulties encountered by contractors in obtaining banking facilities, particularly when arranging financial and performance guarantees required for government projects. The industry also proposed establishing a dedicated Construction Development Bank (CDB) to address the sector’s specialised financing needs. In response, Cheema directed Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani to consult the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA). The feasibility of creating a dedicated construction development bank will be assessed after obtaining feedback from the central bank and commercial banking sector. Officials will also examine the financial implications and potential structure of such an institution before any decision is taken. Import and export policies to be reviewed The government is also considering changes to import and export policies affecting construction-related businesses. The proposed review is intended to facilitate access to modern technologies and equipment while simultaneously encouraging greater domestic production and development of local industrial capacity. The authorities are expected to examine existing duties, procedures and policy barriers to determine whether adjustments could help improve competitiveness without undermining domestic manufacturing. Focus on value for public money During the meeting, Cheema stressed that improving construction quality was directly linked to protecting public finances. He said the government’s objective was not simply to complete infrastructure projects but to ensure that they delivered value over their intended lifespan. The minister emphasised the importance of cost-effectiveness, durability and accountability at every stage of public construction projects. The proposed reforms, if approved, could introduce significant changes to the way construction contractors and consultants are regulated, how public projects are monitored and how construction companies access financing. The government is now expected to consolidate the proposals into a broader policy framework and seek approval for the proposed measures.

  • Thailand Shuts Over 7,000 Cannabis Shops Amid Regulatory Overhaul

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    BANGKOK – Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has confirmed the closure of more than 7,000 cannabis shops following a sharp decline in license renewals under a newly implemented regulatory framework. As of January 5, 2025, Cabinet-approved regulations have introduced stricter controls over the cannabis industry, resulting in widespread closures across the country. New Thai Law […]

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    Kaia Gerber reveals she underwent an exorcism as a child

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    Model and actress Kaia Gerber has made a startling revelation about her childhood, saying she underwent an unusual exorcism after her mother, supermodel Cindy Crawford, feared she might be possessed. The 24-year-old opened up about the experience during an interview on The Mitch Churi Chat Show, where she was promoting Ryan Murphy’s upcoming series The Shards. Gerber also spoke about her long-standing fascination with supernatural experiences and encounters. Gerber said she had been told as a child that she was possessed and described herself as having been “haunted” throughout her life. She then revealed that an exorcism had actually been performed on her. According to the actress, the ritual involved a didgeridoo being played around her. “I’ve never talked about it, but that actually did happen,” Gerber said while recalling the unusual childhood experience. Her comments also brought attention to her connection with supernatural themes. During her appearance in American Horror Story: Double Feature, Crawford reportedly took precautions because of concerns about the show’s subject matter. Gerber said her mother gave her holy water during the production because she worried that her daughter could become possessed. The revelation comes as Gerber has also been speaking more openly about the pressures she has faced growing up as the daughter of one of the world’s most recognisable models. In a recent interview, she discussed the constant comparisons between herself and Crawford, particularly regarding their physical appearances. Gerber said such comparisons affected how she viewed her own body and admitted that she had sometimes felt jealous of her mother’s figure. The actress explained that comments about her appearance have been difficult because people often expect her to discuss her body publicly. Gerber has also attracted attention for her relationship with actor Lewis Pullman. The couple reportedly began dating in early 2025 after her relationship with Austin Butler ended. More recently, Gerber described her relationship with Pullman in highly positive terms, saying she values being able to remain herself rather than changing her personality depending on whether she is with a partner, friends or colleagues.

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    Gold prices rise in Pakistan

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      KARACHI: Gold prices climbed in Pakistan on Monday, even though international gold rates experienced a slight decline. The increase in local prices was mainly attributed to continued uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict, concerns over rising inflation, and investor caution ahead of key US economic data expected later this week. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association, the price of 24-karat gold increased by Rs1,700 per tola, taking it to Rs428,436. Similarly, the price of 10 grams of goldrose by Rs1,457, reaching Rs367,314. The latest increase came after a significant decline on Saturday, when gold prices had fallen by Rs3,700 per tola to settle at Rs426,736. In contrast, the international gold market remained under slight pressure. Spot gold slipped by 0.1% to $4,037.01 per ounce, while US gold futures for August delivery declined by 0.3% to $4,035.80 per ounce during trading. Despite the minor drop, analysts believe global investors remain cautious because of ongoing geopolitical tensions and expectations of fresh economic developments in the United States. Silver prices in Pakistan also moved higher. The price of silver gained Rs54 per tola, taking it to Rs6,291, reflecting continued demand for precious metals in the local market. Adnan Agar, Director at Interactive Commodities, said that international gold prices had eased slightly after fluctuating throughout the trading session. According to him, gold touched a high of $4,080 per ounce before falling to a low of$4,019, eventually stabilising near $4,038. He noted that gold remains under pressure and the market is closely monitoring upcoming US economic indicators, particularly employment data, which could influence the Federal Reserve’s future monetary policy decisions. Agar added that gold has remained within a broad trading range of approximately $3,950 to $4,250 per ounce since June. However, he expects this range to break within the next one or two weeks, potentially leading to a stronger upward or downward price movement depending on market conditions. Market participants are now awaiting a series of important US labour market reports, as these will provide further insight into the Federal Reserve’s interest rate outlook. Higher interest rates generally reduce the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold, while expectations of rate cuts tend to support bullion prices. Another factor attracting attention in the global market is reports that South Korea’s central bank intends to purchase gold from domestic producers, a move that could provide additional support to demand in the coming months. Meanwhile, oil markets have also remained highly volatile. Brent crude futures surged by more than 20% last month, driven largely by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, raising concerns that higher energy prices could fuel inflation worldwide. Edward Meir, an analyst at Marex, said gold has traded within a narrow range of $4,000 to $4,200 per ounce for over a month. He explained that the possibility of inflation picking up again, particularly after July’s economic data, is helping support gold prices despite the recent weakness. Separately, the Pakistani rupee posted another modest gain against the US dollar. The local currency appreciated by 0.01%, closing at Rs277.77 per dollar, compared with Rs277.80 at the end of the previous trading session, reflecting continued stability in the foreign exchange market.

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