launches heavy strikes
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US launches heavy strikes on Iran after missile at…

The United States has resumed large-scale military operations against Iran, launching what officials described as a “heavy wave” of precision strikes after a five-night pause, dramatically escalating tensions across the Middle East and raising fresh concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the overnight operation targeted dozens of sites linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including military command centres, missile and drone facilities, coastal defence systems and maritime infrastructure. The strikes came in response to Iranian missile attacks a day earlier on American forces stationed at a US military base in Jordan.

US President Donald Trump had warned that Washington would respond “very hard” to any attack on American troops, and the latest operation marked one of the most extensive US offensives since the conflict intensified earlier this year.

Iranian state media reported that at least three civilians were killed in the strikes, including a couple and their two-year-old child after a residential building on Qeshm Island was hit. The IRGC also confirmed that three of its personnel were killed during the attacks.

Explosions were reported across several southern Iranian cities, including Ahvaz, Abadan, Bushehr, Kazerun and Farashband. Iranian media said power outages affected parts of Ahvaz following strikes in the oil-rich Khuzestan province, while local officials confirmed that multiple locations in Abadan had also been targeted.

The confrontation quickly spread beyond Iran. Jordan said its air defence systems intercepted five Iranian missiles launched toward its territory after Tehran targeted a US airbase and command headquarters inside the kingdom. No casualties were reported.

Meanwhile, Kuwait confirmed that an Iranian strike hit a building belonging to a Chinese company in the country’s north, killing one worker and causing significant damage. Saudi Arabia condemned Iran’s attacks on Jordan, describing them as a violation of international law and regional stability.

Despite the renewed fighting, diplomatic contacts continue behind the scenes. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said negotiations between Tehran and Washington remain active, particularly over the Strait of Hormuz and efforts to reduce tensions. Iranian officials also confirmed that discussions with Omani mediators regarding the future of the strategic waterway are continuing.

The Strait of Hormuz remains at the heart of the crisis. Iran insists the waterway remains closed because of US military actions, while Washington accuses Tehran of threatening global shipping and using maritime pressure to strengthen the IRGC’s influence.

Adding economic pressure, the US Treasury imposed fresh sanctions on two Iranian companies accused of supporting an IRGC-backed maritime insurance network.

Security analysts say Washington now faces a critical decision: continue targeting Iran’s military infrastructure around Hormuz or expand attacks on key national infrastructure. While the latest strikes signal a tougher military posture, experts believe both sides still have incentives to leave the door open for diplomacy, even as the risk of a wider regional war continues to grow.

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    England on track to eliminate hepatitis C by 2030

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A free course of antiviral tablets lasting between eight and 12 weeks can cure more than 95% of cases. The NHS says effective treatment could reduce the number of people requiring liver transplants by 80% over the next decade, while also reducing cases of liver cancer and cirrhosis. Deaths from hepatitis C have already fallen by 36% over the past ten years. (NHS England) NHS urges people at risk to get tested The latest figures have prompted the NHS to urge people who may be at greater risk of having undiagnosed hepatitis C to order a free and confidential home-testing kit. Those particularly encouraged to test include people who have moved to England from certain Eastern European countries, anyone who has had a tattoo abroad, and people who currently use or have previously used injectable drugs. Adults born in Ukraine, Romania, Estonia, Latvia, Poland, Albania, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Czechia and Slovakia are also being urged to test. The NHS says some people from these countries may have been exposed to the virus through medical or dental procedures before 1991, when modern sterilisation standards were introduced. The free home-testing service is designed to reach people who may not otherwise come into contact with drug and alcohol services, sexual health services, GPs or A&E departments. Thousands of hidden cases identified The NHS has significantly expanded hepatitis C testing over the past five years. A first-of-its-kind programme offering hepatitis C testing to patients having blood tests in participating A&E departments has identified around 1,900 previously undiagnosed cases since 2022. GP practices are also asking new patients whether they received a blood transfusion before 1996, helping identify people who may have been infected through the contaminated blood scandal. 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(NHS England). Patient urges others to take the test Among those treated is 65-year-old Paul Eatwell from Blackburn, Lancashire, who discovered he had hepatitis C after routine liver-function tests following a change of GP. His new doctor ordered additional tests, including screening for hepatitis C. Paul said he initially could not believe the result because he had no symptoms and could not understand how he might have contracted the virus. The precise source of his infection was never established, although possible risk factors included surgery in South Africa several decades ago. He said the specialist team helped answer his questions and reassured him about the condition. Paul said treatment was far less difficult than he had imagined, involving one tablet a day for 12 weeks and several blood tests. 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She said treating more than 100,000 people in ten years had brought England closer than ever to eliminating hepatitis C as a public health threat. The Hepatitis C Trust also called for continued long-term investment to maintain the progress made by the national programme, particularly among marginalised communities that can face barriers to healthcare. Rachel Halford, chief executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, said continued funding would be essential to ensure people at greatest risk were not left behind. Hepatitis B remains a challenge While England’s progress against hepatitis C is described as world-leading, health authorities stress that elimination of viral hepatitis as a whole also includes hepatitis B. Further work is therefore required to improve diagnosis and access to treatment for people living with hepatitis B. A national

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    Injection marks found on woman who died at Lahore …

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    Crazy, Stupid, Love. directors recall Kevin Bacon?…

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    Diljit Dosanjh explores Japan before Europe tour begins

    Global Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh is taking a well-deserved break before launching the Europe leg of his highly anticipated Aura World Tour 2026. The singer recently traveled to Japan, where he immersed himself in the country’s culture, sampled its renowned cuisine, and visited several iconic locations. Sharing highlights from the trip on Instagram, Diljit gave fans a glimpse into his memorable Japanese adventure through a lively video. Staying true to his signature style, he narrated the experience with his trademark Punjabi humor, making the travel diary both entertaining and relatable for his followers. Throughout the video, the singer can be seen exploring different parts of Japan, admiring its scenic beauty, bustling streets, and cultural landmarks. However, one aspect of the country stood out to him more than anything else—its remarkable cleanliness. Diljit expressed genuine amazement at how spotless the streets were despite the apparent absence of public litter bins. The observation left him impressed, as he noted that even without trash cans readily available, the roads and public spaces remained exceptionally clean. His reaction highlighted the discipline and civic responsibility often associated with Japanese society. Accompanying the video, the singer shared a caption that reflected his excitement for both the trip and his upcoming performances. He wrote that he was exploring beautiful Japan before heading to Europe for the next phase of the Aura World Tour 2026, while also expressing his eagerness to meet fans across Europe soon. The travel video quickly attracted widespread attention on social media, with fans praising not only the stunning visuals but also Diljit’s engaging storytelling. His humorous narration and natural charm once again proved why his travel content is as popular as his music. This isn’t the first time Diljit has delighted fans with travel vlogs and behind-the-scenes moments from his journeys around the world. Over the years, he has built a reputation for sharing candid experiences, combining humor with observations about different cultures and destinations. His unique approach has helped him connect with audiences beyond his music, making his social media accounts a favorite among millions of followers. Fans flooded the comments section with appreciation shortly after the video was posted. Many praised the quality of the content, while others admired the singer’s ability to make even simple travel moments entertaining. One fan described him as the “best vlogger ever,” while another said they were thoroughly enjoying every piece of content he shares online. As Diljit wraps up his time in Japan, attention now shifts to the Europe leg of his Aura World Tour 2026. With sold-out concerts, energetic performances, and a massive international fan base, the singer is expected to continue his successful run across Europe. His latest travel update has only added to the excitement, giving fans another reason to look forward to the next chapter of his global journey.

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