The Pakistani passport has been ranked as the fourth weakest in the world, according to the Henley Passport Index 2024, a prestigious ranking system that evaluates the travel freedom of citizens from various countries. This ranking indicates that Pakistani passport holders face significant restrictions when traveling internationally, with only 33 countries allowing visa-free entry. In contrast, 154 destinations require a visa, highlighting the limited global mobility of Pakistani citizens.
The ranking criteria are based on the number of destinations that can be accessed without a prior visa, with the Singaporean passport holding the top spot, allowing its holders to travel to an impressive 195 destinations without a visa. In comparison, Pakistan’s neighboring countries, China, India, and Iran, are ranked at 82, 94, and 59, respectively, indicating that Pakistani passport holders face more stringent travel restrictions than their regional counterparts.
This ranking has significant implications for Pakistani citizens, who may face challenges when traveling abroad for business, education, or leisure. The limited travel freedom can also impact the country’s economic and cultural exchange with the rest of the world. Efforts to strengthen the Pakistani passport and improve its global ranking would require significant reforms in areas such as diplomacy, international relations, and national security. By addressing these challenges, Pakistan can work towards enhancing the travel freedom of its citizens and promoting greater global connectivity.
Two devastating incidents of rape have shaken the garrison city, leaving two women traumatized and seeking justice. According to police reports on Wednesday, the first incident occurred in a women’s hostel on Seventh Road, where a woman was brutally attacked while making breakfast. An armed intruder broke into her room, locking the door and subjecting her to a horrific assault. The victim recounted how the attacker threatened her, struck her with a pistol, and then raped her. To add to her ordeal, the assailant stole her purse, containing her mobile phone, Rs5,000 in cash, an ATM card, and her CNIC.
The New Town police have registered a case against the suspect, and an investigation is underway. The victim’s courage in reporting the crime and seeking justice is commendable, and it is essential that the authorities take swift and decisive action to apprehend the perpetrator.
In the second incident, a woman reported being gang-raped by four men in Gulzar-i-Quaid. The victim, who has been married since 2021 and has a three-year-old daughter, had been dating the main suspect for six months. On Sunday, he invited her to his house, and two of his friends picked her up. Upon arrival, she was allegedly raped by all four men, who then callously threw her out of the house the next morning. The victim has filed an FIR with the Airport police, and an investigation is ongoing.
These heinous crimes have sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the need for increased safety measures and support for victims of sexual assault. The authorities must ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice, and that the victims receive the necessary care and protection. It is also essential to address the societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate such violence against women, and to work towards creating a safer and more equitable environment for all.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has sought guidance from the Supreme Court (SC) due to difficulties in implementing the reserved seats verdict, which declared Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) eligible for reserved seats in the national and provincial assemblies. The ECP’s plea to the SC’s registrar highlights the challenges in confirming statements of MNAs and MPAs, as PTI lacks an organizational structure, a statutory obligation for enlisted political parties. This lack of structure has created uncertainty, prompting the ECP to request clarification on legal points related to the implementation of the verdict.
The ECP’s difficulties stem from the fact that PTI’s organizational structure is not in line with the requirements of the Elections Act, 2017. As a result, the party is unable to confirm the statements of its MNAs and MPAs, which is a necessary step in the allocation of reserved seats. The ECP has sought guidance from the SC to ensure that the implementation of the verdict is carried out in accordance with the law and the Constitution. The SC’s previous order had directed the ECP to implement the verdict, but the ECP’s plea highlights the need for further clarification to resolve the implementation issues.
The development has significant implications for the political landscape of Pakistan, as the allocation of reserved seats can impact the balance of power in the national and provincial assemblies. The ECP’s decision to seek guidance from the SC demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. The SC’s response to the ECP’s plea is eagerly awaited, as it will provide clarity on the implementation of the reserved seats verdict and its impact on the political landscape of Pakistan.
A shocking incident has come to light in which a landlord brutally chopped off the legs of a donkey for allegedly entering his field in search of water. The inhumane act has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from animal welfare organizations and social media users.
The donkey, which belonged to a poor farmer, had wandered into the landlord’s field in search of water due to the scorching heat. Enraged by the donkey’s presence, the landlord allegedly attacked the animal with a sharp object, severing its legs.
The donkey is currently undergoing treatment at a local animal hospital, but its chances of survival are slim. The landlord’s cruel act has been widely condemned, with many calling for strict action against him. Animal welfare organizations have also stepped in, demanding justice for the donkey and stricter laws to prevent such atrocities.
This incident highlights the deeper issues of animal cruelty, rural poverty, and the need for empathy and compassion towards all living beings. It also underscores the importance of providing adequate water and food sources for animals, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Elon Musk has categorically denied media reports claiming he pledged to donate $45 million monthly to Donald Trump’s campaign. The billionaire entrepreneur and business magnate took to social media to refute the allegations, stating that the claims are entirely false.
Musk did, however, confirm the establishment of a political action committee (PAC) called “The America PAC,” which aims to promote principles that align with his own values, including meritocracy, freedom, and limited government intervention. He emphasized that his support is focused on these principles rather than any individual, including Trump.
Musk’s denial of the donation claims comes after initial reports sparked controversy and raised eyebrows. The entrepreneur’s clarification provides much-needed context, underscoring his commitment to promoting specific values rather than blindly supporting a particular candidate or party.
By setting the record straight, Musk has demonstrated his willingness to engage with the public and provide transparency, characteristics that have endeared him to his vast following. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Musk’s approach serves as a reminder of the importance of fact-checking and accurate reporting.
Tesla has put its plans to build a new gigafactory in Mexico on hold due to the threat of tariffs posed by former President Donald Trump’s potential re-election. Trump has vowed to impose heavy tariffs on vehicles manufactured in Mexico, which would significantly impact Tesla’s ability to invest in the country. As a result, the electric vehicle manufacturer has shifted its focus towards expanding production capacity at its existing factories, including the development of its highly anticipated Robotaxi and Optimus robots.
Tesla had initially announced its plans to build a new gigafactory in Mexico in March 2023, with the intention of producing its next-generation vehicles. However, the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s tariff threats has forced the company to re-evaluate its investment strategy. The Mexico gigafactory was expected to play a crucial role in Tesla’s expansion plans, but the company is now waiting to see how the political landscape unfolds before making any further decisions.
The halt in plans is a significant setback for Tesla’s ambitions in Mexico, where the company had hoped to capitalize on the country’s strategic location and skilled workforce. However, with the threat of tariffs looming large, Tesla is prioritizing caution and exploring alternative options to ensure its continued growth and success. The company’s decision serves as a testament to the far-reaching impact of political uncertainty on business investment and expansion plans.
A devastating plane crash has occurred in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, resulting in the loss of at least 18 lives. The tragic incident involved a domestic plane operated by Saurya Airlines, which was on a test flight to Pokhara when it crashed and caught fire. The plane was carrying 19 people, including 17 Nepali nationals and one foreigner, with only the pilot surviving the catastrophic event. The pilot is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the crash.
The cause of the crash is still unknown, but preliminary reports suggest that it occurred during takeoff. The incident has sent shockwaves across the country, with emergency crews rushing to the scene to respond to the disaster. The Tribhuvan International Airport, the main airport in Nepal, has been closed temporarily as authorities work to investigate the crash and clear the wreckage.
This tragic event has once again highlighted concerns about aviation safety in Nepal. The country has a poor track record of plane and helicopter crashes, with several deadly incidents occurring in recent years. The European Union has taken note of these safety concerns, banning all Nepali carriers from its airspace. The investigation into this latest crash will be crucial in determining the cause and identifying measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
The Sindh government has made the prudent decision to extend the summer vacations for colleges across the province, citing the unbearable heatwave and anticipated monsoon rains as the primary reasons. This extension will see the summer break prolonged until August 14, a move that will undoubtedly bring relief to students, teachers, and staff alike. The new academic year, which was initially slated to commence on August 1, will now begin on August 15, allowing for a more comfortable and safe learning environment.
The extension of summer vacations is a timely response to the extreme weather conditions that have been prevailing in Sindh. The heatwave has been particularly severe, with temperatures soaring to record highs, making it essential to prioritize the well-being and safety of students. Moreover, the anticipated monsoon rains are expected to bring further disruptions, and the extended break will help minimize the impact of these weather-related challenges on the academic calendar.
While the extension of summer vacations is a welcome move, it is important to note that co-curricular activities related to Independence Day celebrations on August 14 will continue as planned. This will ensure that students can still participate in the festivities and commemorate the country’s independence without any disruptions. The official notification issued by the Sindh College Education Department has confirmed the extension, providing clarity and direction to educational institutions across the province.
Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta has unveiled a cutting-edge AI model, showcasing significant advancements in artificial intelligence technology. The updated model boasts exciting new features, including “Imagine Yourself,” a generative AI model that creates stylized selfies based on a photo of a person, and “Edit with AI,” a revolutionary editing tool that allows users to add, remove, change, or edit objects using simple prompts. Additionally, Meta has introduced Llama 3, the next major version of its foundational open-source model, which outperforms competing models of its class on key benchmarks and excels across the board at tasks like coding.
The new AI model has the potential to drive innovation and improve safety and security in the field of AI. The “Imagine Yourself” feature allows users to generate stylized images based on a photo of themselves, simply by typing “Imagine me” followed by a prompt. The “Edit with AI” tool provides users with unprecedented control over editing options, enabling them to fine-tune their images with ease. Furthermore, the open-source nature of the Llama 3 model makes it accessible to a wider range of developers and researchers, fostering a collaborative environment that can accelerate AI advancements.
The impact of Meta’s new AI model is expected to be significant, with far-reaching consequences for the field of AI. By making AI technology more accessible and user-friendly, Meta is democratizing access to AI tools and empowering a new generation of developers, researchers, and creators. As AI continues to evolve and improve, Meta’s innovative approach is likely to give the company a competitive edge in the field, solidifying its position as a leader in AI technology.
The federal government has taken a significant step towards addressing the growing concern of electronic crimes by constituting special courts to hear cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). These courts, which will be presided over by additional district and sessions judges as well as civil judges, have been granted the authority to conduct trials related to PECA. The primary objective of these special courts is to provide a dedicated platform for the expeditious disposal of cases pertaining to electronic crimes, which have been on the rise in recent years.
The PECA law, which was enacted in 2016, prohibits various forms of electronic crimes, including the unauthorized copying or transfer of data, unsolicited messages, hate speech, online criticism of the country, its courts, religion, and armed forces. The law aims to safeguard the integrity and security of electronic communication, data, and systems, and to prevent the misuse of digital technologies. With the establishment of these special courts, the government seeks to ensure that cases related to PECA are dealt with efficiently and effectively, and that perpetrators of electronic crimes are brought to justice.
The special courts will hear a range of cases, including those involving Raoof Hasan, the information secretary of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), who was recently arrested by Islamabad Police and handed over to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for alleged violations of PECA. The establishment of these courts demonstrates the government’s commitment to tackling electronic crimes and ensuring the safety and security of digital spaces in the country.
In 2024, the world’s most powerful passport is shared among six countries: Singapore, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain. According to the Henley Passport Index, these passports offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 194 destinations, making them the most globally accessible. This ranking reflects a blend of strong diplomatic ties and robust travel infrastructure, enhancing the holders’ ability to travel freely around the world.
The consistent presence of these countries at the top of the passport rankings underscores their citizens’ ease of global mobility, which is increasingly valued in today’s interconnected world. The rankings are determined based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and other reliable sources, ensuring an accurate assessment of each passport’s travel freedom.
Notably, Singapore and Japan have maintained their positions among the most powerful passports over the past several years, often swapping the top spot. This year, they share the honor with several European nations, illustrating a broad distribution of travel privileges across continents.
The significance of having a powerful passport extends beyond convenience; it also reflects a country’s diplomatic relationships and the strength of its international agreements. For instance, the United Arab Emirates has seen substantial improvement over the past decade, rising dramatically in the rankings due to expanding its visa-free access【19†source】.
For citizens of these countries, the benefit is not only in the number of destinations accessible without prior visa arrangements but also in the reduced travel bureaucracy, saving time and resources. In an era where international travel is recovering from pandemic-related disruptions, these passports offer a considerable advantage in terms of travel flexibility and convenience.
Overall, the 2024 passport rankings highlight the changing landscape of global mobility and the increasing importance of strong international partnerships. The top passports not only facilitate travel but also represent the broader geopolitical and economic status of their respective countries. This year’s results underscore the continued prominence of European and Asian countries in providing their citizens with unparalleled global access.
Prince William has broken his silence following Prince Harry’s announcement of the Invictus Games in Birmingham in 2027, by taking on new patronages as the Prince of Wales. In a statement shared on social media, Prince William expressed his honour in assuming new responsibilities with various organisations, highlighting his commitment to supporting their vital work and making a positive impact. This move comes after Prince Harry congratulated the city of Birmingham on being selected to host the Invictus Games in 2027, a prestigious international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, which he founded in 2014.
The Invictus Games has grown in prominence since its inception, providing a platform for athletes to compete, inspire, and showcase their resilience. Prince Harry’s involvement with the Games has been instrumental in its success, and his announcement of the 2027 host city marks an exciting milestone for the event. Meanwhile, Prince William’s new patronages demonstrate his dedication to various causes and his willingness to take on additional responsibilities as the Prince of Wales. By supporting these organisations, Prince William aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities, aligning with his charitable focus and royal duties.
The world has shattered the record for the hottest day for the second consecutive day, with a scorching global average surface air temperature of 17.15 degrees Celsius (62.87 degrees Fahrenheit) on July 22. This unprecedented heatwave has left a trail of sweltering temperatures, heatwaves, and wildfires in its wake, affecting numerous regions across the globe, including Asia, Europe, and North America. The record-breaking heat is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change, driven by the relentless burning of fossil fuels, which continues to push the planet to new extremes.
Scientists warn that this is not just a short-term anomaly, but a disturbing trend that underscores the urgent need for drastic action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy sources. Unlike last year’s record-breaking heat, which was attributed to the El Nino climate pattern, this year’s extreme temperatures are solely the result of human-induced climate change. The previous record, set in July 2023, has been eclipsed by a staggering 0.06 degrees Celsius, a significant margin that highlights the accelerating pace of global warming.
Regional heatwaves have brought temperatures to extreme levels, with Japan, China, the United States, and southern Europe experiencing record-breaking highs. In Spain, temperatures soared to a sizzling 44 degrees Celsius (111.2 degrees Fahrenheit), leaving residents and visitors alike struggling to cope with the oppressive heat. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, it is clear that immediate action is needed to mitigate its effects and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, has announced the release of LIama 3.1, a cutting-edge AI model that is open-source and freely available for everyone. This move marks a significant milestone in the AI industry, as LIama 3.1 is a state-of-the-art model that has been trained on a massive dataset and has achieved impressive results in various benchmarks. With its large parameter size of 405 billion, LIama 3.1 is one of the largest and most powerful AI models available, making it competitive with top AI models like GPT-4 and Claude 3.5 Sonnet.
The open-source nature of LIama 3.1 democratizes access to AI technology, allowing more people to use, modify, and distribute the model. This move has the potential to accelerate AI research and development, as researchers and developers can build upon and improve the model. LIama 3.1 has been trained on a multilingual dataset and can perform translation tasks in multiple languages, making it a valuable tool for various applications. However, it’s important to note that LIama 3.1 is not a multimodal AI model, meaning it cannot handle images, audio, and video inputs.
The release of LIama 3.1 is a result of Meta’s partnership with Nvidia, which provided computing chips called GPUs to help train the AI model. This partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in the AI industry, as companies work together to advance the field. With LIama 3.1, Meta aims to lead the charge in AI innovation, making it a significant player in the industry. The model’s potential applications are vast, ranging from chatbots and virtual assistants to language translation software. As the AI industry continues to evolve, LIama 3.1 is poised to play a major role in shaping its future.
Speculations are rife that Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, may join forces with Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, in a potential collaboration that could see Markle appointed as the US ambassador to the Court of St James’s. This suggestion was made by royal commentator Ephraim Hardcastle, who believes that if Harris were to win the presidency, she might consider Markle for the esteemed role. While neither Markle nor Harris has confirmed this speculation, it is worth noting that the two women have expressed mutual admiration for each other’s work, particularly in their shared passion for gender and racial equality and representation.
Both Markle and Harris have been vocal advocates for women’s rights, racial equality, and social justice, which could provide a strong foundation for a potential collaboration. Markle’s experience as a member of the British royal family, combined with her American heritage and commitment to philanthropic causes, might make her an attractive candidate for the ambassadorial role. Harris, who has been a trailblazer for women in politics, might see Markle as a like-minded individual who could help promote American interests in the UK while also championing their shared values.
However, it is essential to note that this is purely speculative at this point, and no official announcement has been made by either Markle or Harris regarding a potential collaboration or appointment. Nevertheless, the prospect of these two influential women joining forces is an exciting one, and their shared commitment to creating positive change could lead to significant advancements in various fields. As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see if this speculation becomes a reality.
President Joe Biden is set to deliver a highly anticipated address to the nation from the Oval Office, a speech that could potentially be his last from the iconic room. Scheduled for 8:00 p.m. (PST) on July 24, 2024, the address comes on the heels of Biden’s surprise decision to withdraw from the November presidential election. During the speech, Biden is expected to explain his reasons for dropping out of the race and reassure the American people that he will not spend the remainder of his term as a lame duck president.
In the eight to ten minute address, Biden will outline his vision for the remaining months of his presidency, emphasizing the work that still needs to be done to benefit the American people. Despite his decision to bow out of the election, Biden is determined to finish strong and make the most of his time left in office. The speech will likely touch on his administration’s accomplishments and the progress made towards his goals, as well as the challenges that lie ahead.
This address is significant not only because it may be Biden’s last from the Oval Office but also because it comes at a pivotal moment in his presidency. With the clock ticking on his time in office, Biden is under pressure to deliver results and leave a lasting legacy. The speech will be closely watched by politicians, pundits, and the public alike, all eager to hear Biden’s vision for the future and how he plans to make the most of his remaining time in office.
In a surprising turn of events, electric cars are gaining traction in Saudi Arabia, a country notorious for its fuel-guzzling culture. Despite being one of the world’s largest oil producers, the Saudi government is actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, with investments in EV production expected to reach a staggering $50 billion over the next decade. This shift towards sustainable transportation aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
As environmental concerns continue to mount, electric vehicles offer a more eco-friendly option, reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The growing interest in EVs is evident in the increasing sales figures, with more consumers opting for electric cars. However, despite this momentum, electric vehicles still face significant challenges in Saudi Arabia. The limited charging infrastructure and high prices are major hurdles that need to be addressed to facilitate widespread adoption.
To overcome these obstacles, the Saudi government is investing heavily in developing the necessary infrastructure, including charging stations and battery-swapping facilities. Moreover, more car brands are entering the Saudi market, offering a range of electric vehicle options, including BYD, Lucid, and CEER. This increased competition is expected to drive down prices, making EVs more accessible to the average consumer.
In a bold move, Saudi Arabia is also ramping up domestic production of electric vehicles, with companies like Lucid and CEER planning to start production in the near future. This strategic decision will not only reduce reliance on imported vehicles but also create jobs and stimulate local economic growth. The government has set an ambitious target of producing 300,000 electric vehicles annually and increasing the electric vehicle share in Riyadh to 30% by 2030. If achieved, this would be a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s transition towards a more sustainable transportation sector.
Prince Harry has extended an olive branch to his estranged family members, King Charles and Prince William, in a new documentary titled “Tabloids on Trial”. In the documentary, Prince Harry reflects on his relationship with his family and how allegations of tabloid intrusion and hacking were a central piece of the rift with King Charles and Prince William. He expresses his desire to work together as a family, stating, “It would be nice if we did it as a family”. This sentiment marks a significant shift in Prince Harry’s tone, as he has previously been critical of his family’s handling of the media and its impact on his mental health.
The documentary appearance and Prince Harry’s comments come a day after he announced that the host city of the Invictus Games 2027 will be Birmingham, UK. This announcement has been seen as a positive step, as it brings a high-profile event to the UK and promotes the Invictus Games’ mission of supporting wounded veterans. By extending an olive branch to his family, Prince Harry may be attempting to mend fences and create a more positive atmosphere ahead of the games.
However, it remains to be seen how King Charles and Prince William will respond to Prince Harry’s overture. The relationship between Prince Harry and his family has been strained for some time, with disagreements over media coverage, mental health, and other issues. While Prince Harry’s comments in the documentary may be seen as a step towards reconciliation, it will likely take time and effort from all parties involved to fully repair the relationship.
Despite the challenges, Prince Harry’s desire to work together as a family is a positive development, and his commitment to the Invictus Games and its mission is admirable. By focusing on shared goals and values, Prince Harry may be able to build bridges with his family and create a more harmonious relationship. Only time will tell if this olive branch will lead to lasting change and a more united royal family.
The government’s decision to transfer fuel pricing authority to oil marketing companies (OMCs) marks a significant shift in the country’s petroleum sector. This move towards deregulation aims to introduce market-driven product rates, allowing OMCs to determine fuel prices based on global market trends and other factors. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the abolition of the government’s powers to fix petroleum product prices, paving the way for a more liberalized market.
The implications of this decision are far-reaching, with potential benefits including increased competition, improved efficiency, and better services. However, concerns have been raised by petroleum dealers, who fear that granting OMCs pricing authority could lead to unfair profiteering and negatively impact their businesses. Refineries have also expressed concerns, warning that deregulation could jeopardize nearly $6 billion of investment, as it may be more beneficial to invest in upgrading refineries.
As the government moves forward with this plan, it is crucial to address these concerns and ensure a smooth transition. Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik has convened a meeting to finalize and present the deregulation framework for the petroleum sector, which will hopefully provide clarity on the government’s vision and address stakeholder concerns. Ultimately, this shift towards deregulation has the potential to transform the petroleum sector, but its success will depend on careful planning, implementation, and regulation.
The government’s decision to hike taxes on capital gains from stock investments and equity derivative exchanges caused market anxiety, which caused the Indian rupee to fall to all-time lows on Tuesday.
The rupee fell to a historic low of 83.7150 early in the session before closing little down versus the US dollar at 83.6875, its lowest close ever.
The Reserve Bank of India’s intervention most likely prevented the currency’s collapse. Traders speculated that the central bank probably sold dollars via state-run banks around 83.70–83.72 levels. The BSE Sensex and Nifty 50, which are India’s major equity indexes, finished the day little lower after falling more than 1% earlier.
A trader at a foreign bank stated that although the rupee experienced a “knee-jerk” response to the decline in equity markets, the RBI is unlikely to permit a significant increase in volatility.
For the remainder of the week, the rupee is predicted to gradually depreciate and trade in the 83.57-83.77 range, according to Dilip Parmar, an HDFC Securities foreign exchange research analyst.
India’s fiscal year 2024–25 budget reduced the objective for the fiscal deficit while striking a balance between increased investment on rural development and jobs. The administration reduced its goal for the fiscal deficit in February’s interim budget from 5.1% to 4.9% of GDP. Additionally, it slightly decreased its overall market borrowing to 14.01 trillion rupees. Tuesday saw a small increase in the majority of Asian currencies, while the dollar index was up at 104.3.
Due to mounting demand concerns in China and growing expectations of a truce in Gaza, oil prices fell by almost 2% on Tuesday, reaching a six-week low. Around 12:13 p.m. EST (1613 GMT), U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped $1.49, or 1.9%, to $76.91, while Brent futures slid $1.38, or 1.7%, to $81.02 a barrel.
This moved both crude benchmarks into technically oversold territory for the first time since early June and set them up for their lowest closings since June 7. Additionally, it marked the first time since early June that WTI futures have dropped for four straight days. For the third day in a row, Brent was down.
The past month has seen a surge in the Middle East’s attempts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and the terrorist organization Hamas through a plan presented by U.S. President Joe Biden in May and facilitated by Egypt and Qatar.
Even as fighting raged in the Palestinian enclave, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the relatives of hostages held in Gaza that a solution to guarantee their release could be nigh.
Netanyahu and Biden are scheduled to meet at the White House on Thursday. Oil futures have benefited from the war in Gaza as investors have factored in the possibility of disruptions to the world’s supply of crude oil from the Middle East’s major producing regions.
Following further Houthi attacks on commercial ships, which are backed by Iran, and the first Israeli airstrikes on Yemen in reprisal for Houthi drone and missile attacks on Israel, the United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, issued a dire warning about the possibility of a catastrophic regional escalation.
During talks in China, Palestinian factions, including rivals Hamas and Fatah, decided to put an end to their differences and establish a temporary national unity administration. Claudio Galimberti, head of global market analysis at Rystad, stated in a note that “a uncertain macroeconomic outlook in China and ceasefire negotiations in the Middle East are exerting downward pressure on oil prices this week.” The U.S. dollar (.DXY), which is strengthening to a nine-day high versus a basket of other currencies, is another factor influencing pricing.
A higher dollar raises the price of oil in other nations, which may cause demand for the fuel to decline.
The Finance Division said in a statement that Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb briefed Moody’s Ratings representatives on Tuesday about Pakistan’s Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) with the International Monetary Fund IMF and the ongoing reforms in the energy sector and State-Owned Enterprises, including efforts towards “privatisation and rightsizing to enhance operational efficiency and governance.”
The finance minister emphasised at a Zoom virtual meeting how Pakistan’s macroeconomic indicators had improved as a result of the nine-month Stand-By Arrangement with the IMF.
Earlier in the month, the IMF said that it and Pakistan had come to an agreement on a $7 billion, 37-month loan package designed to strengthen stability and promote equitable growth.
The IMF said the new Extended Fund Facility (EFF) was subject to approval by its Executive Board and obtain “timely confirmation of necessary financing assurances from Pakistan’s development and bilateral partners.”
As part of the new programme, Aurangzeb told Moody’s representatives that Pakistan aims to increase revenues by 1.5% of GDP in FY 2025 and by 3% over the next three years.
He told Moody’s representatives that the government aims to achieve a primary surplus of 1% of GDP for FY 2025.
The minister also talked about Pakistan’s $9.4 billion foreign exchange reserves, stock exchange performance, 12.6% inflation in the CPI in June 2024, and a 7.7% rise in foreign remittances.
He informed Moody’s Ratings that more than 150,000 retailers have registered as first-time taxpayers.
The rating agency was notified by Aurangzeb of the increased trust of multilateral institutions in funding projects in Pakistan.
The Moody’s Ratings team expressed gratitude for the thorough briefing and confidence in Pakistan’s economic trajectory, which is being bolstered by significant fiscal changes and strategic efforts.
Both domestic and international markets have seen a decline in gold prices, according to Express News. The price of an ounce of gold dropped by $11 on the international bullion market, making it $2,391.
In the meantime, 24-carat gold dropped in price in local markets by Rs500, bringing it down to Rs250,500 per tola. Furthermore, the cost of 10 grammes of gold decreased by Rs 429 to Rs 214,763. The nation’s silver prices were steady in contrast to the falling price of gold. The pricing for 10 grammes of silver remained constant at Rs 2,503.42, while the rate for a tola of silver remained at Rs 2,920.
David Beckham and Victoria’s son Romeo Beckham continues to follow his father’s footsteps.
On Instagram, Romeo shared a photo showing off his two latest tattoos inspired by his famous dad David.
The Beckham family is known for their extensive collection of tattoos
One features a lion’s face with the words “Do it afraid” on his arm, while the other is a bird carrying a rose with the phrase “Everything passes” on his other arm.
This isn’t the first time Romeo has taken inspiration from his father, David.
Earlier this year, Romeo sported a satin patterned bandana reminiscent of one his father wore 25 years ago. This adds to his collection of tattoos, including the word “Romance” on his index finger, a large dove on his wrist with the phrase “Lead with love,” and a stone angel statue covering his forearm along with the phrase “Freedom to dream” on his torso.
The Beckham family is known for their extensive collection of tattoos. David Beckham and his eldest son, Brooklyn, reportedly have over 200 tattoos combined.
Jennifer Meyer just gave Gwyneth Paltrow the credit for her smooth divorce.
In her latest appearance on the Broad Ideas podcast, the jewelry designer revealed how Paltrow and Chris Martin’s amicable divorce gave her inspiration to have a rather peaceful split from Tobey Maguire.
Meyer, who parted ways from the Spider-Man actor in 2016 and then filed for divorce four years later deemed the Coldplay frontman’s “beautiful breakup” an “example,” at the show.
She stated, “Right when Tobey and I were starting to break up, I watched what Gwyneth Paltrow was starting to do with Chris — this conscious uncoupling that everyone was making fun of.”
“I got to see it firsthand, and it was the most beautiful thing that I had ever witnessed two human beings go through. She was so loving and kind and open to him and she created this family,” she added.
The 47-year-old then approached Paltrow and gushed over how different the Oscar winner’s divorce was from her parents’s split.
“I was like, ‘Wow, that’s not what I was taught growing up. I was taught that divorce was ugly … bad and would never be good,’” she recalled telling Paltrow.
Veteran Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Qaiser on Sunday made a startling claim that the party lawmakers were being pressurised and offered big bucks to buy their loyalties, The News reported.
PTI Chairman Gohar Khan had also accused the government of coercing the PTI MPs to change their allegiance after the Supreme Court verdict about the reserved seats for women and minorities was announced.
The Supreme Court on July 12 ruled that the PTI was eligible for the allocation of reserved seats, paving the way for the party’s return to the parliament, which was kicked out of the February 8 polls owing to the electoral body’s December 2023 ruling.
The judgement has also increased the pressure on the coalition alliance as it will change the composition of the National Assembly.
Asad Qaiser said the rulers had no shame as they had resorted to various tactics in a bid to cling to power, including pressurising the lawmakers.
“At the moment, the game of fire and blood is being played in the country and they are cracking down on a political party,” he said in a video message, announcing countrywide protests on Friday.
Qaiser said the PTI would request that all the political parties join this protest, including the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA).
“My fellow Pakistanis, we have announced a protest in the whole of Pakistan next Friday under Tehreek Tahaffuz Aiyeen-e-Pakistan. Our protest has three aims and objectives. Our protest is against the deteriorating law and order situation in the country and the failure of the government (to tackle it),” he said.
Secondly, the seasoned politician said, their demonstration was against the unlawful and unconstitutional imprisonment of former prime minister Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi as well as “our other prisoners in jails and the illegal abduction and disappearance of our social workers and especially those related to social media”.
“Thirdly, our protest is against inflation which has brought doomsday on the poor people. Electricity bills have been increased, petrol prices have been increased, taxes have been imposed which are unaffordable. The people will hold a historic protest on Friday,” he maintained.
He said all the political parties especially the GDA would be invited to participate in the protest.
He said: “All sections be it farmers, students, traders or workers we all have to save this country”.
The decision to hold the protests on July 26 was taken during an emergency meeting of the Tehreek under its chairman, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, a senior politician from Balochistan, who also heads the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party.
Bangladesh appeared calm on Monday amid a curfew, but widespread disruption of telecoms prevailed a day after the Supreme Court scrapped some quotas for government jobs that sparked protests this month that killed scores.
Clashes between protesters and security forces killed at least 139 people across the South Asian nation after the high court last month reinstated job reservations removed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2018.
On Sunday, however, the Supreme Court ordered that 93% of government jobs should be allocated on the basis of merit, against earlier quotas of 56% for groups such as families of freedom fighters, women, and people from underdeveloped areas.
There were no reports of violence or protests on Monday morning and media said curfew would be relaxed for three hours in the afternoon, extended from two hours the previous day, so that people could buy essentials.
Student protesters have said they plan to continue demonstrations, however, until the release of detained protest leaders, and have demanded the government lift the curfew and re-open universities shut since Wednesday.
They have set a 48-hour deadline for the government to act on the demands.
Last week’s protests saw thousands injured as security forces fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and sound grenades to scatter the demonstrators.
Experts have blamed the unrest on stagnant job growth in the private sector and high rates of youth unemployment that have made government jobs, with their regular wage hikes and other privileges, more attractive.
Hasina, who was sworn in for a fourth consecutive term this year, has been accused of authoritarianism, human rights violations, and crackdowns on free speech and dissent in the past — charges her government denies.
Islamabad Police on Monday arrested Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) Information Secretary Raoof Hasan from the party’s Central Secretariat for heading a digital media cell allegedly involved in running propaganda against Pakistan and its integrity.
After reports pertaining to the arrest of the PTI spokesperson and Chairman Gohar Khan surfaced, the capital’s police clarified that they only arrested Hasan during a raid “on the basis of evidence”.
“The PTI digital media centre had become a centre of international disinformation, from where anti-Pakistan propaganda is run throughout the world,” said police.
Meanwhile, Gohar said he went along with Hasan to the Police Lines, however, the police said since the PTI chairman was not wanted in any case, he could leave. He said Hasan was detained in the Police Lines.
Police said those directly involved in the anti-national propaganda were arrested and all the evidence from the PTI’s digital media cell was taken into custody.
The party, in a statement on X, said: “It’s absolutely shameful how Islamabad Police continues to completely mock and disregard every law in this country. Law of the jungle is reigning over Pakistan!”
PTI said police took a computer and some other equipment into custody as well from the party secretariat.
Footage shared by the party on X shows numerous police vehicles and some police officials outside its secretariat.
Police sources denied the report of the arrest of four women as well as the confiscation of a laptop and documents from the office.
Condemning the raid at the former ruling party’s central secretariat, PTI leader Khurrum Sher Zaman claimed the arrest was made on instructions of the “Form-47 government”.
“We’ve been informed that they’ve locked staff in a room & waiting for prison van to arrive & have taken computers & important documents,” he wrote on X.
Adviser to Chief Minister on Information Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said the arrest of PTI leaders proved that the “government was taking its last breaths”.
The federal government had broken all records of fascism and had even resorted to underhanded tactics, he said, adding that they were not scared of them.
“The struggle for true democracy and to ensure the rule of law will continue,” said Saif.
Meanwhile, the PTI held a demonstration in Lahore, demanding the authorities release its leaders and workers.
PTI lawyers wing and other supporters participated in the protest, led by Opposition Leader in Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmad Khan Bhacher, in droves.
Dozens of workers and leaders of the embattled party are behind bars following last year’s May 9 attacks, which ensued after PTI founder Imran Khan was arrested in a graft case.
Imran, 71-year-old cricketer-turned-politician, has been in prison for almost a year now in three cases — the Toshakhana case, cipher case, and the un-Islamic marriage case. His wife, Bushra Bibi, is also behind bars.
However, a court suspended his sentence in the Toshakhana case, while other courts overturned his convictions in the cipher and iddat cases, respectively.
While there were hopes for his and Bushra’s release in July, they were dashed when the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) arrested them on fresh charges related to the sale of state gifts.
An accountability court has approved a seven-day remand of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the newly filed Toshakhana reference.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had sought a 14-day remand of the couple, but the court turned down the request and asked the anti-graft body to produce the suspects on July 29.
The anti-corruption body’s team had presented the couple before the court after the expiry of their previous eight-day remand and also submitted a progress report to the judge.
The 71-year-old cricketer-turned-politician has been in prison for almost a year now in three cases — the Toshakhana case, cipher case, and the un-Islamic marriage case. His wife, Bushra Bibi, has also been behind bars for months.
However, a court suspended his sentence in the Toshakhana case, while other courts overturned his convictions in the cipher and iddat cases, respectively.
While there were hopes for his and Bushra’s release in July, they were dashed when NAB arrested them on fresh charges related to the sale of state gifts.
Marvel Studios president, Kevin Feige, has made huge revelations about Blade reboot.
During the press conference for upcoming super-hero film Deadpool & Wolverine, Feige briefly spoke about Marvel’s reboot, which is still in progress.
The Marvel boss said that the studio is taking their time with the reboot, focusing on getting it right rather than rushing it.
He claimed that the company has been trying to master that movie for the past two years. “The most important thing for us is not rushing it and making sure we are making the right Blade movie,” Feige said.
Back in July 2019, Marvel announced the reboot of the 1998 film. However, since then, the project has seen major changes in regard of writers and directors.
Feige went on to reveal that the Blade reboot will likely receive R-rating, which he believes is the right approach.
First Blade film was released in 1998 starring Wesley Snipes in the leading role. The sequel was released in 2002 titled Blade II. The third installment of the movie titled Blade: Trinity had a theatrical release in2004.
Blade reboot is set to release on November 7, 2025.
