Australia have moved ahead of Pakistan after defeating West Indies by 55 runs in the 14th match of the World Championship of Legends 2024 at the County Ground stadium in Northampton on Wednesday.
The Aussies have surpassed Pakistan on the points table due to a better Net Run Rate (NRR).
West Indies, after winning the toss, decided to bowl first which turned out to have disfavoured them as Australia smashed 274/7 in their 20 overs.
Ben Duck hit a 35-ball 100 while Daniel Christian played as many balls and fell short of his century by one run.
Dunk hit 12 fours and 7 sixes in his innings while Christian hammered 11 fours and eight sixes.
In reply, West Indies tried to chase but the required run rate kept increasing, resulting them to finish at 219/6.
Dwayne Smith made 64 runs off 40 balls while Ashley Nurse made 36-ball 70. Captain Daren Sammy 18-ball 33 at the backend.
Aussie skipper Brett Lee was team’s best bowler, bagging 2/30.
With this loss, West Indies helped India to qualify for the semi-finals while their fate depend on whether India defeat South Africa in the last league game or better their run rate with big win over India.
Australia and Pakistan had already qualified for the semi-finals.
The repercussions of the Pakistan team’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 continue to flow as it has been revealed that star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has been found misbehaving with the coaches and management staff, sources told Geo News on Wednesday.
Sources say that a probe is underway over why managers — who are responsible for maintaining team discipline — didn’t take any action against the left-arm pacer despite Shaheen’s attitude.
The revelation comes against the backdrop of ongoing measures being taken by the board, the latest of which was the sacking of Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from the selection committee, following the team’s poor performance and early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024.
Razzaq was a member of both the men’s and women’s selection committees, whereas Wahab remained the face of the men’s seven-member selection committee even after he was removed as panel chief earlier this year.
In a statement today, the PCB confirmed notifying the duo that their services were no longer required.
With senior manager Wahab out of the picture, the board has also removed team manager Mansoor Rana from his post.
Both the Wahab and Razzaq, the sources have claimed, extended undue favours to certain players and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi decided to oust the duo only after the culmination of the investigation into the said matter.
The players supported by Wahab and Razzaq turned out to be the ones who didn’t perform and were in fact opposed by other members of the selection committee as well.
Moreover, the board is also probing players who have lobbies and the benefit that is being gained from it.
Sources have further said that the team’s coaches have complained to the PCB chairman about the non-seriousness of players and disciplinary violations in recent tours.
Lamenting that players talk against each other, the coaches have also taken up the issue of players’ families and the effect on their ability to focus on the game.
Wahab dismisses pressurising selection committee
Meanwhile, reacting to the board’s confirmation of his removal, Wahab has dismissed the reports suggesting that he had pressurised the selection committee.
— X@WahabViki
“I don’t agree with the statements being discussed about adding pressure to the members of the selection committee,” the former pacer said in a post on his X account.
Questioning that how can one vote dominate six, as the selection committee comprised of seven members, he stressed that everything was documented on record in the minutes of the meeting.
Wahab then announced that he will be issuing a statement in the evening today.
It is to be noted that the board has retained Mohammad Yousuf, Asad Shafiq and Bilal Afzal in the selection panel which also includes the captain and head coach.
A man has been caught trying to smuggle over 100 live snakes into mainland China by cramming them into his trousers, according to the country’s customs authority.
The unnamed traveller was stopped by customs officers as he sought to slip out of semi-autonomous Hong Kong and into the border city of Shenzhen, China Customs said in a statement on Tuesday.
“Upon inspection, customs officers discovered that the pockets of the trousers the passenger was wearing were packed with six canvas drawstring bags and sealed with tape,” the statement said.ReplayUnmute
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“Once opened, each bag was found to contain living snakes in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colours,” it added.
The statement said officers seized 104 of the scaly reptiles, including milk snakes and corn snakes, many of which were non-native species.
An accompanying video showed two border agents peering into transparent plastic bags filled with squirming red, pink, and white snakes.
China is one of the world’s biggest animal trafficking hubs, but authorities have cracked down on the illicit trade in recent years.
The country’s biosecurity and disease control laws forbid people from bringing in non-native species without permission.
“Those who break the rules will be… held liable in accordance with the law,” the customs authority said, without specifying the man’s punishment.
At least 15 people lost their lives and two were injured when a passenger jeep tumbled down from the Leswa Bypass Road near Devlian village onto the bank of the Neelum River on Wednesday while they were travelling from Lawat Bala to Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
Though police and rescue teams rushed to the accident site, their efforts faced certain difficulties due to the occurrence of rain, according to Rescue 1122. They added that the bodies were sent to the District Headquarters Hospital, whereas, the wounded passengers were taken to the Muzaffarabad Combined Military Hospital.
Additionally, a woman cutting grass and two children were also injured at the scene. They were also admitted to the hospital.
Notably, at least 17 passengers were travelling in the jeep including the driver; out of which six men, four women, and three children could not survive the accident. Additionally, two other passengers were announced dead when they reached the hospital, as per the rescue officials.
Apart from the police and rescue teams, local people and youth also volunteered and took part in the rescue efforts.
As the possible causes behind the accident are still being determined, Muzaffarabad Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Ahmed Janjua told Geo News: “Apparently, there is no obvious cause for the car accident. There is also no trace present on the road where the accident took place, which can determine the cause behind the occurrence.”
He added, “The road is perfectly smooth and in good condition.”
The passengers who lost their lives belonged to two families of Lawat Bala village in the Neelum Valley. The bodies were handed over to their respective kin and their funeral prayers will be offered in the village before they are laid to rest.
Accidents like this routinely take place in the mountainous areas of AJK. The prime reason behind such occurrences is mostly faulty and worn-out public transport vehicles, but a lack of road safety measures also causes such road mishaps.
: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Wednesday asked the ministries to work hard to make a difference and meet the nation’s expectations, warning against any laxity in the implementation of the government’s downsizing agenda.
“I will not allow my time to waste and I am sure you will not allow your time to be wasted. The only thing that will make the difference is action and implementation. Roll up your sleeves as this is a matter of country, its resources and resolution of its issues,” the prime minister said in his remarks while chairing the meeting of the federal cabinet.
Apprising the members of his visits to Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, he referred to his interactions with world leaders, particularly Russian President Vladimir Putin and said he had formed a committee under Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal for follow-ups.
Similarly, he said he had chaired a meeting a couple of days ago to review the progress on the follow-up of “very productive” discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang during his China visit and would hold another meeting on July 20.
The prime minister said the government had launched the solarisation of 28,000 tube-wells in Balochistan to save bleeding of annual Rs80 billion. He also appreciated the Balochistan chief minister and other relevant ministries and departments for taking the project to the implementation stage.
He told the meeting that the finance ministry had been tasked to work out a business plan for the solarisation of a million tube-wells in the country which were currently running on imported fuel, putting a burden of $3.5 billion in the form of foreign exchange.
The prime minister highlighted that Pakistan had immense solar energy potential which must be exploited to save energy costs and provide low-cost electricity to the farmers.
“Time is running fast and we are racing against time. You have to accept the challenge and deliver. You will become the nation’s heroes … if you bring about a revolution of development in your ministries. For this, we will have to work day and night,” he remarked.
Coming to the downsizing agenda, the prime minister categorically said that he would not listen against the closure of Public Works Department (PWD) as the government had also found an alternative solution on the pattern of Punjab. He said the two-week time he had given for PWD’s closure, was already over.
“I will not tolerate if any ministry used delaying tactics. Please make no mistake about it. It is okay if there is any valid reason for any subsidiary but protecting any entity for the sake of perks and privileges is a thing of the past, not today. It will not happen and it must not happen,” he remarked.
The prime minister also highlighted that Pakistan spends $5 billion on freight of exports and imports but the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation was running a fleet of just 12 ships while getting Rs5 billion for salaries. This is contrary to around 600 ships being run by Bangladesh and around 1500 ships by India.
“But no one cares. At least they should have flagged the issues to seek their resolution,” he said and also referred to the evasion of import duties worth Rs1200 billion on Karachi Port.
He told the meeting that on Tuesday, the government had announced a Rs50 billion relief package to support the power consumers of the protected category for three months. “During these three months, I want massive fiscal space through enforcement like plugging financial leakages and addressing tax evasion,” he added.
He said the government had imposed taxes on the real estate sector to generate Rs100 billion in revenue and to do away with a culture of tax evasion.
“This cannot go for long. We need to bring deep structural reforms and take bitter pills. I pray that this should be the last IMF programme but it needs sacrifices,” he commented.
He reiterated his call for the ministers to work hard and sought plans from commerce and IT ministers to boost exports.
“I beg of you in the name of Pakistan. Let us stand up and accept the challenge, move forward in unison and create a difference as the nation wants results,” he added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz asked the interior minister and interior secretary to ensure coordination with the provinces during the month of Muharram and extend the maximum possible support to provinces as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.
Four security personnel were martyred during a joint intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Peshawar on Wednesday, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
On the reported presence of a high-profile terrorist, the action was jointly carried out by the personnel of the security forces and KP police in the Hassan Khel area today, the military’s media wing said.
The joint IBO witnessed an intense exchange of fire in which three terrorists, including a high-value target — terrorist commander Abdul Raheem — were killed.
The security personnel also recovered weapons and ammunition from the possession of the slain terrorists, the ISPR added.
Raheem was highly wanted by the law enforcement agencies, who had a head money of Rs6 million fixed on him by the government.
The killed terrorist commander was also responsible for the martyrdom of Captain Hussain Jehangir Shaheed and Havildar Shafiq Ullah Shaheed on May 26, 2024, the military’s media wing said, adding: “Today’s operation has avenged the heinous act and has brought the main perpetrator to justice.”
However, during the intense exchange of fire, the four brave sons of soil — Sepoy Muhammad Idrees, 34, resident of Swabi district; Sepoy Badam Gul, 34, resident of Kohat district, as well as Sub-Inspector Tajmir Shah, 38, resident of Peshawar district and Assistant Sub Inspector Muhammad Akram of KP’s CTD, 34, resident of Mansehra district, having fought gallantly, embraced martyrdom.
“Pakistan’s security forces stand shoulder to shoulder with other law enforcement agencies to ensure peace and stability across Pakistan and such sacrifices of our brave men further strengthen our resolve,” it concluded.
A Pakistan Army captain and three soldiers were martyred in exchange of fire with terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan and North Waziristan districts, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
The ISPR had said 24-year-old Captain Muhammad Osama bin Arshad was martyred in gunbattle with militants in North Waziristan district, while the soldiers laid down their lives in gun fight against the militants in South Waziristan district.
Since the Taliban came into power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has witnessed a significant surge in terrorist attacks on security forces, especially in provinces bordering the neighbouring country in recent months with the militants using advanced weaponry and equipment.
With the security forces hitting hard on terrorism, violence and casualty rates across the country plummeted in the second quarter of 2024, according to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) Annual Security report.
As per the report, the country experienced a 12% reduction in overall violence, with 380 fatalities recorded compared to 432 in the first quarter of this year.
During the second quarter of 2024, Pakistan witnessed 380 violence-linked fatalities and 220 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws, resulting from as many as 240 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations.
This includes 236 fatalities among civilians and security forces personnel, the report said.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan provinces – both bordering Afghanistan, were the epicenters of violence, accounting for nearly 92% of all fatalities and 87% of attacks (including incidents of terrorism and security forces operations) during this period.
In the backdrop of this, the federal cabinet last month approved the launching of the counter-terrorism operation — Operation Azm-e-Istehkam — following the National Action Plan’s Central Apex Committee’s recommendations to root out terrorism from the country.
Pakistan has extended the stay of legally residing Afghan refugees in the country by another year, according to an official statement issued following the cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
The federal cabinet, in its meeting, approved the extension of Proof of Registration (POR) cards until 30th June next year for 1.45 million legal Afghan refugees and those whose POR cards had expired last month.
The development came a day after United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi called on top Pakistani officials including Prime Minister Shehbaz and appreciated the country for suspending the “Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan,” according to a statement issued by the UNHCR.
During his discussions with Pakistani officials, the high commissioner had called for the timely extension of the POR cards, a critical identity document held by over 1.45 million Afghan refugees.
Grandi also sought assurance that the repatriation plan would remain on hold, the statement said.
In the meeting, PM Shehbaz called on the world to recognise the country’s burden of hosting a large population of Afghan refugees and demonstrating collective responsibility.
Pakistan continues to host some 3 million Afghans, all solutions need to be explored in addition to voluntary repatriation, including third-country resettlement and longer-term solutions within Pakistan, according to the UNHCR statement.
Last year, the country announced a huge drive to repatriate foreigners without visas, mostly the roughly four million Afghans who crossed the border during 40 years of armed conflict in their home country and after the Taliban seized power in 2021.
More than 500,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan since the campaign was announced, according to UN figures.
Amid a surge in terror incidents across the country, the then-caretaker government in October last year decided to repatriate illegal refugees including undocumented Afghans residing in the country.
According to the latest statistics, over half a million undocumented Afghans have been deported back to their home country.
Cabinet approves PWD’s abolishment
In today’s meeting, the federal cabinet also approved the action plan for the abolition of the Pakistan Public Works Department (Pak PWD) and decided to form a Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company to oversee federal development projects and the Asset And Facility Management Company for repair and maintenance works.
The cabinet decided to hand over the federal government projects in the provinces to the relevant provincial departments.
The cabinet decided the Asset and Facility Management Company would be established to carry out the repair and maintenance work currently being done by the Pak PWD.
After their classification, the PWD employees would be transferred to relevant ministries and a golden handshake scheme would also be introduced for them.
Moreover, the cabinet also decided to computerise the record of all PWD properties and called for completing the transition process within two weeks.
On the housing ministry’s recommendation, the meeting also approved transferring the building of Federal Lodges-II in Peshawar to the Election Commission of Pakistan for establishing the permanent office of the provincial Election Commission.
The meeting approved the repatriation of seven accountant members of Appellate Tribunal Inland Revenue to FBR and the appointment of 14 officers in the tribunal benches, as proposed by the ministry.
On the health ministry’s recommendation, the cabinet approved the appointment of Joint Secretary Muhammad Iqbal as Administrator of the National Council for Homeopathy.
It also decided to revoke the accreditation of Bahawalpur Medical College for its failure to meet the required standards of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council. The students of the colleges would be shifted to other medical colleges.
The prime minister questioned why the college was allowed to function despite not meeting the standards and asked the Prime Minister Inspection Commission to probe into the matter.
Former star cricketer Wahab Riaz reacted to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to sack him from the team’s selection board, saying he gave his “100% for the betterment of Pakistan cricket”.
Earlier, the PCB, in its statement issued today, confirmed that the services of Abdul Razzaq and Wahab Riaz are no longer required in the national selection committee after the team’s dismal performance in the T20 World Cup 2024.
“My time serving as a member of selection committee for PCB comes to an end, I just want my people to know that I have served the game I love with faith and sincerity and have given 100 percent for the betterment of Pakistan cricket,” the former cricketer said, while giving his statement on X, formerly Twitter, after the PCB decision to remove him from his responsibilities in the team’s section board.
“It has been an honour to serve as part of the selection panel. To make collaborative decisions as part of the seven man panel to select the national team was a privilege — everyone’s vote carried equal weight, we made selection decisions as a team & shared the responsibility of that process equally. It was an honour to contribute my part to that.”
“I am thankful to the people who have prayed for me. I wish nothing but success for the future of the Pakistan cricket team,” he concluded his statement.
The board has retained Mohammad Yousuf, Asad Shafiq and Bilal Afzal in the selection panel which also includes the captain and head coach.
Earlier, Wahab dismissed the reports suggesting that he had pressurised the selection committee. “I don’t agree with the statements being discussed about adding pressure to the members of the selection committee,” the former pacer said in a post on his X account.
Questioning how can one vote dominate six, as the selection committee comprised seven members, he stressed that everything was documented on record in the minutes of the meeting.
Soon after being removed as selector, Riaz was also sacked as the senior team manager of the men’s side.
The PCB removed Wahab and Manager Mansoor Rana from their posts due to lack of discipline during the last three tours of the national men’s team.
Pakistan recently toured Ireland and England for T20I series before heading to the United States and West Indies for T20 World Cup 2024 where they crashed out of group stage.
: In yet another disturbing incident of domestic abuse, private TV anchor Ayesha Jehanzeb has reportedly become the latest victim of grievous physical assault by her husband, leaving her severely bruised, Geo News reported on Wednesday.
According to Ayesha, a domestic spat with her husband, Haris, escalated, leading to the alleged horrifying physical abuse. After undergoing a medical examination, Ayesha filed a case against Haris under charges of attempted murder.
Violence against women is a global phenomenon and Pakistan is no exception. In most cases, women are hurt by none other than their family members, rendering them traumatised — sometimes for their entire lives.
The police confirmed that a case has been registered against Haris, who has been arrested and is currently under investigation.
The upsetting report prompted a swift reaction from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who, taking notice of the assault on the popular TV host , ordered the police to take action against the accused.
The provincial chief executive has also sought a detailed report from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and directed that Ayesha be provided with the best possible medical care and security.
“Women are my red line; violence against domestic or working women will not be tolerated,” she asserted.
Earlier, Ayesha’s arrested husband was presented in court, where a judicial magistrate approved a two-day physical remand for the accused, Haris.
It must be mentioned here that the TV host had lodged a case against her husband at the Sarwar Road police station.
According to the first information report (FIR), the accused assaulted and injured her.
Around 27% of women in Pakistan face violence at some point in their lives, and only about half feel safe in their communities, per a report by the Asia and the Pacific Policy Society.
Violence against women takes many forms, including rape, murder, sexual harassment, domestic violence, and forced marriages.
Women are not always safe in their homes, in public or at their workplaces. It is feared that only a fraction of the cases get reported.
The Sindh High Court recently observed that despite the promulgation of the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2013, the government had failed to implement the law.
Hence directions were issued to the government to ensure effective implementation of the Act and to initiate a campaign to make people aware of its objectives.
The government Tuesday defended its move to authorise the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to intercept or trace calls, with the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) crying foul saying the incumbent rulers would face a backlash for granting such powers to the country’s premier intelligence agency under the “black law”.
Responding to a question raised by the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Omar Ayub Khan, Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar told the House that it was not a new law rather it came into force in 1996 and further reshaped section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication re-organisation Act 1996.
He quoted section 54 of the Act which states, “Notwithstanding anything contained in any law for the time being in force, in the interest of national security or in the apprehension of any offence, the Federal Government may authorise any person or persons to intercept calls and messages or to trace calls through any telecommunication system”.
Tarar said that the government from time to time issued notifications in this regard. Many incidents like the assassination of Benazir Bhutto and DIG Mobeen took place and culprits involved in such heinous crimes were nabbed through calls interception by intelligence agencies under the said law.
Speaking on the floor of the House, Ayub said that the government has issued an SRO empowering the intelligence agency to trace and intercept calls and messages.
“Those empowering [agencies] to trace calls will go to jail,” he stressed, adding that PPP and PML-N leaders including Asif Ali Zardari, Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, will end up in jail under the same law.
Responding to the criticism of the Opposition Leader, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the matter of phone tapping is undergoing a legal process. However, he dubbed phone-tapping essential in matters of national security, saying it is imperative in view of the ongoing counter-terrorism operations against militants.
“I will support phone-tapping in the prevalent situation,” the defence minister said, calling on Ayub and other PTI leaders to review
their party founder’s previous statements on the issue.
Asif said the PTI founder in the past had backed the phone-tapping citing security concerns.
Speaking outside Parliament House, PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan denounced the government’s move, saying the Constitution of Pakistan is quite clear about eavesdropping. “The Constitution’s intent is that no one’s privacy is affected and no one is allowed to tap phone calls,” he added.
Hozier’s anticipated concert at Chepstow Racecourse has been cancelled.
As reported by BBC, The show, which was part of the venue’s Summer Sessions series, was canceled after organizers determined that ground conditions were unsuitable for the performance.
In a statement, organizers expressed regret over the cancellation, acknowledging the inconvenience caused to fans who had planned their trips around the event.
“Unfortunately, due to the persistent heavy rainfall, the ground conditions left us with no other option. Despite our efforts to pump out the water and take corrective measures, the ongoing rain has prevented these efforts from being successful. Rescheduling was not possible at this time due to existing schedule commitments. Tickets will be refunded at point of purchase,” the statement read.
They added, “This decision was extremely difficult for us, especially knowing that many of you planned your travels around the tour schedule.”
Hozier also conveyed his disappointment, describing himself as “absolutely gutted” by the news.
He expressed hope for the future performances, stating, “I hope we can do it again, Chepstow”
Gypsy Rose Blanchard is going to parent her first child with Ken Urker soon.
Recently, the popular felon took to Instagram and confirmed in a video that she is welcoming a child with beau Ken in January 20223
She added, “Ken and I are so excited to start our family together and i can’t wait to share my journey with you here on YouTube and my other social media platforms. Thank you for all your support so far and i can’t wait to see our family grow.”
For those unversed, the couple sparked romance rumours when Gypsy was sighted with Ken after revealing that she is calling it quits with husband, Ryan Anderson.
She then confessed her romance by saying, “Ken and I reconnected as friends. It wasn’t like, jump out of a marriage and then let me meet up with you, and boom, we’re in a relationship.”
“I’m in love! Love looks like spending time and feeling your complete self with another person. It’s so cliché but it gives you wings,” she also admitted.
It was later disclosed that her stepmother Kristy Blanchard played cupid for reuniting Gypsy and her ex-fiancé Ken Urker.
An anti-terrorism court in Lahore on Tuesday rejected interim bail pleas of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in three cases related to May 9 violent protests.
Judge Khalid Arshad of Lahore’s ATC announced the verdict today that he reserved three days ago after hearing Khan’s interim bail pleas in the May 9 riots cases — the Jinnah House, Askari Tower and Shadman Police Station vandalism cases.
The May 9 mayhem referred to the riots that broke out in many parts of the country last year following the ex-PM arrest in a corruption case.
The alleged PTI supporters attacked several state building including military installations, prompting the civil and military authorities to try the rioters under Army Act.
The deposed prime minister, who was ousted from power via the opposition’s no-confidence motion in April 2022, has been facing a slew of charges ranging from corruption to terrorism since his removal as premier.
He has been behind bars since August last year after he was sentenced in the Toshakhana case and subsequently sentenced in other cases ahead of the February 8 elections.
Khan secured relief in the other cases, including £190 million reference and Toshakhana, and was acquitted in the cipher case last month.
However, he remains behind bars due to his conviction in the iddat (un-Islamic nikah) case only.
Pleading before the Lahore’s ATC today, the government demanded Khan’s arrest in all three cases, including the Jinnah House case, saying his arrest was essential for interrogation with him.
The former premier along with his spouse Bushra Bibi is currently serving seven-year jail term each at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail after the couple was convicted in the iddat case on February 3, 2024.
The rejection of bail pleas come as PTI is hoping for Khan’s release from prison this month as district and sessions court in Islamabad is expected to announce verdict on the PTI founder’s main appeal challenging conviction in the iddat case.
Last month, the sessions court turned down the pleas of the ex-premier and his wife to suspend their seven-year sentences in the iddat case.
Kanye West recently faced accusation of cheating on Bianca Censori.
According to DailyMail, influencer Mikaela Lafuente accused West of inviting her over while still being married to Censori.
The model, currently dating TikTok star Bryce Hall shared screenshots of messages sent by West in March on Instagram.
“It was funny. Bryce and I were in Vegas and I was going through my Instagram DMs and I saw this [Kayne West’s message]. At first, I didn’t believe it and thought it was a fake account, but it wasn’t. The message was pretty odd as I had never spoken to him or seen him in person before,” Lafuente said.
The screenshots revealed West initiated the conversation by mentioning he was “back in Cali.”
After asking if Lafuente was in California, the rapper suggested hanging out to listen to his new album, Vultures.
However, Lafuente declined the invitation, prompting West to like her response before deleting his messages.
“I don’t think it’s acceptable to be messaging other women when you’re married. It’s not acceptable and it’s something I’d stand behind forever. I’ve grown up with all my family being with their partners forever and this is what I want for my relationship,” Lafuente added.
West is currently married to Bianca Censori, whom he wed in December 2022 shortly after finalizing his divorce from Kim Kardashian.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday told President Vladimir Putin that “war cannot solve problems” and urged “peace through dialogue” on a trip to Moscow more than two years into the Ukraine offensive.
Modi touched down in Moscow as tensions flared in Europe, following a massive Russian missile barrage in Ukraine that Kyiv said hit a children’s hospital in the capital.
During his first meeting with Putin in Russia since the Kremlin launched its campaign in Ukraine, Modi said the conflict was discussed “openly and in detail”.
“When innocent children are murdered, one sees them die, the heart pains and that pain is unbearable,” Modi told Putin in comments in Hindi.
The Indian premier arrived in Moscow on Monday hours after strikes that hit cities across Ukraine killed at least 38 people.
“I know that war cannot solve problems, solutions and peace talks can’t succeed among bombs, guns, and bullets,” the Indian leader added.
“And we need to find a way to peace through dialogue,” he said.
On Monday evening, Modi was pictured hugging Putin at his country residence, drawing condemnation from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
He wrote on social media: “It is a huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts to see the leader of the world’s largest democracy hug the world’s most bloody criminal in Moscow on such a day.”
At the Kremlin, Putin hailed India and Russia’s “very long-standing friendship” and said they now enjoy a “specially privileged, strategic partnership”.
Putin thanked Modi for “the attention you pay to the most urgent problems” and said, “You are trying to find some ways to solve the Ukrainian crisis, too, of course primarily by peaceful means”.
However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov later told Russian news agencies that Modi “is not claiming to offer mediation efforts”.
Modi wrote on X that the talks were “productive” on “ways to diversify India-Russia cooperation in sectors such as trade, commerce, security, agriculture, technology and innovation”.
Afterwards, Putin decorated Modi with the country’s top medal for civilians, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, and the leaders embraced again.
Russia is a vital supplier of cut-price oil and weapons to India, but Moscow’s isolation from the West and growing ties with Beijing have impacted its partnership with New Delhi.
Modi is courting closer Western security ties after being returned to power last month as leader of the world’s most populous country.
Western powers have in recent years also cultivated stronger relations with India as a hedge against China and its growing influence across the Asia-Pacific region while pressuring New Delhi to distance itself from Russia.
The US on Monday urged Modi to make clear to Putin that “any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine must … be one that respects the UN Charter with respect to Ukraine’s territorial integrity”.
Modi last visited Russia in 2019 and hosted Putin in the Indian capital two years later, weeks before Russia began its offensive against Ukraine.
India has largely shied away from explicit condemnation of Russia ever since and abstained on United Nations resolutions targeting the Kremlin.
ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Tuesday his imminent visit to Kabul as part of Pakistan’s efforts to address the escalating terrorism which it attributes to militants sheltered in Afghanistan. This comes amidst a rise in militant activity in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces, which border Afghanistan. The surge in violence has been persistent since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. Pakistan has continually urged the interim Afghan government to prevent cross-border attacks and take firm action against militants using Afghan territory as a base.
Speaking at the Senate’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs’ first meeting, chaired by Irfan Siddiqui, Dar emphasized Pakistan’s enduring relationship with Afghanistan. “I will leave for Afghanistan in a couple of days. Afghanistan is our brotherly country,” he said, underscoring the importance of the bilateral ties. “We had and will continue to have a very close relationship with Afghanistan. You can’t change your neighbours.” Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi was also present at the meeting.
Addressing the issue of security, Dar highlighted the involvement of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in attacks targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan, specifically referencing an incident in Dassu. He noted that these attacks aim to create discord between Pakistan and China and stressed that evidence points to the TTP’s presence and activities being based in Afghanistan.
The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) Annual Security report revealed that during the second quarter of this year, Pakistan experienced 380 violence-related fatalities and 220 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws. These incidents resulted from 240 terror attacks and counter-terror operations, with civilian and security forces personnel accounting for 236 of the fatalities.
“Security is our major problem that Pakistan has with Afghanistan,” Dar stated. He also highlighted the resurgence of the polio virus in Pakistan, a disease that had been eradicated in 2018.
Regarding the financial situation, Dar shared Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s stance on avoiding further debt from other nations. “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has clearly stated he would not seek debt from any brotherly country, any longer.” Dar emphasized the need for economic diplomacy to navigate through the current financial crisis. “Pakistan will have to focus on economic diplomacy if it has to steer clear of the current financial crunch,” he said, while assuring that he has made every effort to support the government’s economic team.
Dar’s visit to Afghanistan is seen as a critical step in addressing both the security concerns and the broader bilateral relationship. His comments reflect Pakistan’s ongoing struggle to manage the implications of regional instability and underscore the intertwined nature of security and economic challenges facing the country.
The upcoming trip is also significant given the context of Pakistan’s internal security issues and its need to maintain strong international relationships, especially with neighboring countries. Dar’s statements suggest a proactive approach in diplomacy and security, aiming to foster stability and cooperation in a region fraught with challenges.
This development follows a backdrop of increasing violence and complex geopolitical dynamics, highlighting the necessity for Pakistan to secure its borders and engage in constructive dialogue with Afghanistan. As Dar prepares for his visit, the outcomes of his discussions will be closely watched, given their potential impact on regional stability and Pakistan’s domestic security landscape.
Prince Harry’s enthusiasm for his new life in the United States seems to be fading as he comes to terms with the reality that his royal status does not carry the same weight across the Atlantic. Since stepping down as a working royal in 2020, Harry, along with his wife Meghan Markle, relocated to the United States, settling into a £12million Montecito mansion with their two children, Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, two.
Initially, Harry found his new surroundings in the U.S. exhilarating. However, royal expert Tom Quinn has observed a change. In an interview with The Mirror, Quinn noted, “During his first six months in the States Harry found everything new and exciting, but the glamour is definitely wearing off. However big your garden—and Harry and Meghan’s garden at Montecito is enormous—there’s only so much you can do when you have no practical skills and you have always paid people to cook, clean and garden for you.”
Adding to the couple’s concerns is a legal challenge posed by The Heritage Foundation regarding the veracity of Harry’s visa application. The organization questions whether Harry was truthful about his past drug use, which he has admitted to publicly. This legal battle could have significant implications for Harry’s residency in the U.S.
Quinn explained, “The couple have taken legal advice because they’re seriously worried that if Donald Trump wins the next election Harry’s visa may be revoked. Trump has insisted that if Harry is found to have lied on his visa application about his admitted drug taking, he could be asked to leave the country.”
The notion that his royal title might not protect him from standard legal and immigration processes is becoming increasingly clear to Harry. “Harry initially thought this couldn’t possibly happen to him as the normal rules don’t apply to a Royal Prince, but he is increasingly realizing that in the United States being a Prince doesn’t actually count for very much,” Quinn added.
This situation underscores the significant cultural differences Harry is experiencing. In the U.K., his royal status afforded him a certain level of immunity and privilege that is not recognized in the U.S., where the legal and social systems operate differently. The realization that his title does not exempt him from American laws and norms has been a sobering adjustment for Harry.
The couple’s transition to life in the U.S. has been closely watched and frequently scrutinized by the media. Their high-profile move and subsequent ventures, such as their multi-million dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify, have kept them in the public eye. Despite these successes, the realities of their new life, including legal challenges and the waning novelty of their situation, are beginning to set in.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s journey continues to unfold under the global spotlight. Their attempts to balance personal privacy with public roles and the challenge of integrating into a different culture while maintaining their high-profile status have proven to be complex. As they navigate these issues, their experience serves as a reminder of the significant adjustments required when transitioning from royalty to private life, especially in a country where their titles hold no legal sway.
Prince Harry’s initial excitement about his new life in the United States is being tempered by the realization that his royal status does not carry the same influence it did in the U.K. The ongoing legal concerns about his visa application and the broader cultural adjustments continue to shape his and Meghan’s experience in their adopted home. As they navigate these challenges, the couple must confront the stark differences between their former royal life and their current reality in the U.S.
Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who became widely known through the 2019 Hulu series “The Act” and the HBO documentary “Mommy Dead and Dearest,” has shared exciting personal news with her fiancé, Ken Urker. Blanchard, currently serving a 10-year prison sentence for her involvement in the murder of her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard, has announced her engagement to Urker, sparking interest and speculation among her followers and the media.
Blanchard’s story captivated the nation due to its harrowing and unusual nature. Dee Dee Blanchard, Gypsy’s mother, had convinced her daughter and everyone around them that Gypsy suffered from a multitude of severe illnesses, a form of abuse known as Munchausen syndrome by proxy. This led to Gypsy being subjected to unnecessary medical treatments and surgeries for most of her life. In 2015, Gypsy conspired with her then-boyfriend, Nicholas Godejohn, to murder her mother, an act she described as her only means of escaping the abuse.
Now, Blanchard’s life is taking a turn towards a more hopeful chapter. Ken Urker, who met Blanchard through a prison pen pal program, has become a significant figure in her life. Their relationship developed over time through letters and visits, eventually leading to their engagement. Urker has expressed his unwavering support for Blanchard, acknowledging her past while focusing on their future together.
The couple’s engagement has garnered mixed reactions from the public. While some people have shown support and optimism for Blanchard’s new beginning, others remain skeptical given the gravity of her past actions. However, Blanchard’s supporters argue that she deserves a chance at happiness and rehabilitation after enduring years of abuse and manipulation.
Blanchard and Urker have shared that they are committed to building a life together once she is released from prison. Gypsy is eligible for parole in 2024, and the couple is hopeful that she will be granted early release for good behavior. They have already started making plans for their future, discussing their aspirations and how they can support each other once Gypsy is out of prison.
Urker, who has remained relatively private, has spoken about his relationship with Gypsy in a few interviews. He described her as a resilient and loving person who has faced unimaginable challenges. Urker believes that Gypsy’s past does not define her future and that their relationship is built on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared vision for a better life.
Blanchard’s father and stepmother have also expressed their support for the couple. They have been advocating for Gypsy’s early release, believing that she has shown remorse for her actions and has made significant progress in understanding the trauma she experienced. They hope that her engagement to Urker will be a positive influence on her journey towards healing and rebuilding her life.
The couple’s announcement has also sparked discussions about the criminal justice system and the potential for rehabilitation. Blanchard’s case is often cited in conversations about how the system handles cases involving severe abuse and mental health issues. Advocates for criminal justice reform argue that Blanchard’s story highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to sentencing and rehabilitation, particularly for individuals who have experienced extensive trauma.
As Gypsy Rose Blanchard and Ken Urker look forward to their future together, they are aware of the challenges that lie ahead. They are committed to facing those challenges head-on, with a focus on personal growth, healing, and building a supportive and loving relationship. Their engagement marks a new chapter in Blanchard’s life, one filled with hope, love, and the possibility of a brighter future.
Gypsy Rose Blanchard’s engagement to Ken Urker represents a significant step in her journey towards healing and a new life. Their relationship, forged through shared understanding and support, offers a hopeful glimpse into the potential for second chances and the power of love and resilience. As they prepare for their future together, Blanchard and Urker are determined to move beyond the shadows of the past and build a life filled with promise and happiness.
A recent report by Sindh’s Citizens Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) has shed light on the alarming state of crime in Karachi during the month of June. The report reveals that a staggering total of 5,288 crimes were reported in the city, indicating a significant surge in criminal activities.
The most shocking statistic from the report is the number of stolen motorcycles. According to the CPLC, 2,792 motorcycles were recorded as stolen in June, with 564 of these being snatched from citizens at gunpoint. Despite efforts by law enforcement, only 196 of the stolen motorcycles were successfully recovered. This highlights the challenge that authorities face in tackling motorcycle theft in the city.
In addition to motorcycle theft, the report documents the theft of 24 vehicles, which were snatched at gunpoint, and another 135 vehicles that were stolen from various parts of the metropolis. Of these stolen vehicles, only 80 were recovered by the police, underscoring the difficulties in retrieving stolen property and the prevalence of vehicle theft in Karachi.
Mobile phone theft also featured prominently in the report, with 1,433 citizens falling victim to such crimes. However, the recovery rate for stolen mobile phones was abysmally low, with only 18 phones being recovered by the authorities. This low recovery rate further emphasizes the effectiveness of the criminal networks operating in the city and the need for improved measures to combat mobile phone theft.
The CPLC report also noted six cases of extortion registered in Karachi during June and reported that 40 people were killed due to violence in various areas of the city. These figures highlight the continued prevalence of violent crime in Karachi, despite efforts to curb it.
On a slightly positive note, the report revealed that there were no reports of “kidnapping for ransom” or “bank robbery/dacoity” in June. This indicates that while street crime and theft remain rampant, certain more severe forms of crime may be under control or less frequent.
Despite the alarming statistics, it is important to note that the city has seen the transfer of as many as 6,000 criminals to Karachi Central Jail in the first five months of the ongoing year. This large-scale incarceration suggests that law enforcement agencies are actively working to combat crime. However, the continued high levels of criminal activity indicate that more needs to be done to improve the law and order situation in Karachi.
The report has prompted significant concern among citizens and officials alike. In May, President Asif Ali Zardari, during a special meeting on the law and order situation in Sindh, directed Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to launch a large-scale operation against street criminals in Karachi. This directive underscores the government’s recognition of the severity of the crime situation and its commitment to addressing it.
The escalating state of street crime in Karachi, which is also the country’s financial hub, poses a serious threat to the safety and security of its residents. The high incidence of theft, extortion, and violence not only affects the quality of life for citizens but also has broader implications for the city’s economy and social stability.
The CPLC report for June paints a grim picture of the crime situation in Karachi, with thousands of crimes reported and significant challenges in recovering stolen property and curbing criminal activities. The high rates of motorcycle and vehicle theft, mobile phone theft, and violence highlight the need for enhanced law enforcement measures and community vigilance. While there have been some successes, such as the lack of kidnapping for ransom and bank robberies, the overall state of crime remains a pressing concern for the city’s authorities and residents. The call for a large-scale operation against street criminals reflects the urgent need for concerted efforts to restore safety and security in Karachi.
Stocks surged in Pakistan on Tuesday, with the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s (PSX) benchmark KSE-100 index crossing the 81,000-point mark during intraday trade. The index rose by 483.98 points, or 0.6%, to touch 81,050.18 points at 11:40am but settled at 80,672.06 points, registering a modest gain of 106 points, or 0.13%, by the end of the trading session.
This upward momentum was driven by local and foreign buying amid strong institutional support. However, a late profit-selling spree curtailed the rally. Analyst Ahsan Mehanti from Arif Habib Corp explained to Geo.tv that the surge to an all-time high was fueled by investor optimism surrounding the potential privatization of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s assurance of holding the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) bidding process in August played a significant role in boosting investor confidence.
Additionally, Mehanti pointed out that the rupee’s recovery against the dollar and investor hopes for a new International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal contributed to the market’s performance. The State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) accommodative policy rates also played a catalyst role in the bullish activity at the PSX.
Khurram Schehzad, CEO of Alpha Beta Core and an economic analyst, noted that the anticipation of upcoming IMF talks for a new, larger, and longer program has bolstered investor confidence in economic reforms and greater stability in the economy. He remarked that the market remains inexpensive on multiples, encouraging investors to increase their exposures.
This positive trend follows a similar pattern observed a day earlier, when stocks recorded an increase of 353.41 points, or 0.44%, closing at 80,566.21 points. The continuous gains indicate a growing investor confidence in the market’s potential for future growth.
The potential privatization of SOEs, such as PIA, is seen as a crucial step towards economic reform and financial stability. Investors are closely monitoring the government’s actions and statements regarding these developments. The commitment to privatization is expected to attract more investments and improve the overall performance of the stock market.
The recovery of the rupee against the dollar has also provided a favorable environment for investors. A stronger local currency reduces the cost of imports and inflationary pressures, contributing to a more stable economic outlook. This stability, combined with the possibility of a new IMF deal, has created a positive sentiment among market participants.
The SBP’s easy policy rates have further supported the bullish activity in the market. Lower interest rates make borrowing cheaper, encouraging businesses to invest and expand. This, in turn, stimulates economic growth and boosts investor confidence.
As the market looks forward to the IMF talks, there is a sense of optimism regarding the potential for economic reforms and stability. The prospect of a larger and longer program with the IMF is expected to provide the necessary support for Pakistan’s economy, addressing key challenges and ensuring sustainable growth.
The PSX’s benchmark KSE-100 index saw a significant surge on Tuesday, driven by local and foreign buying, institutional support, and positive economic indicators. The anticipation of SOE privatization, the rupee’s recovery, and hopes for a new IMF deal have all contributed to the market’s performance. As investors continue to monitor these developments, the market remains poised for potential growth and stability in the coming months.
The federal government has announced a two-day public holiday in observance of Muharram 9 and 10, corresponding to July 16 and 17, 2024. This decision was communicated through a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, which stated that the Prime Minister had approved these dates as public holidays to mark Ashura, the 9th and 10th days of Muharram 1446 AH.
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a period of mourning and reflection for Muslims worldwide. The 10th day, known as Ashura, holds significant religious importance, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala. This event is observed with deep grief and sorrow, particularly by the Shia Muslim community.
In light of the religious significance and the large gatherings expected during the observance, the federal government has also taken measures to ensure security. The deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAF) has been approved across the country. According to a notification from the interior ministry, the specifics of troop deployment will be coordinated with relevant authorities, including the governments of Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad. The duration of this deployment will be determined based on mutual consultation among all stakeholders, with the date of de-requisitioning to be decided subsequently.
Given the sensitive nature of Muharram and the potential for unrest, provincial governments, such as Punjab, have requested the federal government to suspend social media platforms for one week. This measure aims to prevent the spread of hate material and maintain communal harmony during this critical period. However, the federal government has not yet made a final decision regarding the suspension of internet services. Any action in this regard will be taken after consultations with the provincial authorities, as stated by the Ministry of Interior earlier today.
The observance of Ashura involves various religious rituals and gatherings, including processions, recitations, and public displays of mourning. These activities not only commemorate the historical events of Karbala but also serve to reinforce the values of sacrifice, justice, and steadfastness in the face of oppression.
In urban centers across Pakistan, security measures are typically heightened during Muharram to prevent any incidents of violence or sectarian conflict. The deployment of security forces is intended to ensure the safety of participants in religious gatherings and processions. Local authorities work in coordination with community leaders to facilitate the peaceful observance of rituals and to address any security concerns that may arise.
The decision to potentially suspend social media platforms reflects the government’s recognition of the role that digital communication can play in both fostering and mitigating tensions. In previous years, social media has been used to spread misinformation and incite violence, making it a focal point for security measures. By considering the suspension of these platforms, the government aims to curb the dissemination of inflammatory content and ensure a peaceful observance of Muharram.
The announcement of public holidays for Muharram 9 and 10 underscores the significance of Ashura in the Islamic calendar. The federal government’s approval of security measures, including the deployment of armed forces and the consideration of social media suspension, highlights its commitment to maintaining peace and security during this solemn period. As the nation prepares to observe Muharram, these steps aim to facilitate a respectful and secure environment for all communities to commemorate this important event.
Monsoon rains are forecasted to hit Karachi for the second consecutive day on Wednesday, with light to moderate showers expected in various parts of the city, according to a weather analyst. Today, light rain and drizzle are likely, accompanied by hot and humid conditions. The rainfall is anticipated to occur either in the afternoon or evening.
The weather expert also mentioned that strong sea breezes will begin to influence the port city starting Thursday, bringing cloudy weather. These breezes are expected to provide some relief from the heat and humidity.
Earlier today, the weather in Karachi transformed into a pleasant experience for residents as rain showers swept through the city. The downpour, which began in the afternoon, affected several areas including Old City, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulistan-e-Johar, Saddar, II Chundrigar Road, Malir, Airport, Quaidabad, Federal B Area, and Tariq Road. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) recorded the lowest temperature in the city at 30°C, with the maximum temperature expected to range between 35°C and 37°C.
In addition to the immediate weather forecast, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning for potential urban flooding in Karachi, Hyderabad, and other regions of Sindh. This warning is in response to anticipated heavy rains across the province.
The NDMA’s alert underscores the importance of preparedness, urging local administrations and provincial disaster management authorities to monitor the situation closely. The agency emphasized the need for precautionary measures to safeguard residents, particularly those in low-lying areas prone to flooding.
This monsoon season, Karachi has already experienced a mix of weather conditions, from sweltering heat to sudden, refreshing showers. The recent rainfall has provided a much-needed respite from the oppressive summer heat, making the weather more bearable for the city’s residents.
However, the looming threat of urban flooding remains a significant concern. Karachi, like many other major cities in Pakistan, faces challenges with its drainage and sewage systems. Heavy rainfall often leads to waterlogging and flooding, disrupting daily life and posing risks to infrastructure and public safety.
The PMD has advised residents to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions during this period. Simple measures such as avoiding unnecessary travel during heavy rains, ensuring that homes and businesses are well-prepared for potential flooding, and staying in contact with local authorities can help mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions.
The unpredictable nature of monsoon rains necessitates vigilance from both the authorities and the public. The NDMA’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for coordinated efforts to handle emergencies effectively.
Karachi is set to experience another day of monsoon rains, with light to moderate showers expected in the afternoon or evening. The city’s weather will remain hot and humid, with strong sea breezes predicted to arrive by Thursday, bringing cloudy skies. While the rain offers relief from the heat, the risk of urban flooding highlights the need for continued vigilance and preparedness among residents and authorities alike.
India’s fast bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s T20I skipper after the latter announced his retirement from the shortest format of the game after winning the T20 World Cup 2024. Pandya will be rewarded for his exceptional performance in the mega-event whereas ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah will be named the team’s vice-captain.
Pandya was crucial to India’s T20 World Cup glory as the all-rounder bowled the last over against the Proteas in the final and defended the target. During the match, he also removed Heinrich Klaasen who almost took the game away from the Men in Blue. For the captaincy, the names of Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav were also discussed but Pandya emerged as the favourite and is likely to lead the team in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka.
The goal is to give Pandya enough time and matches to make sure he is ready for the 2026 T20 World Cup which will be played in India and Sri Lanka. India are currently playing a five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe where Shubman Gill is leading the team. The series is tied 1-1 after the Blues made an impressive comeback in the second T20I and registered a 100-run win.
Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Secretary, Jay Shah, confirmed that Rohit will lead the Indian cricket team in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 and Champions Trophy 2025. Sharma recently ended India’s 11-year-long ICC trophy drought and guided them to a T20 World Cup win when the Blues defeated South Africa in a thrilling final in Bridgetown.
Sharma was appointed India’s captain in 2021 after Virat Kohli stepped down and since then, the Blues made it to the WTC 2021-23 final and the ODI World Cup 2023 final where they lost to Australia on both occasions. “I am confident that under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, we will win the WTC Final and the Champions Trophy,” Shah said in a video shared by the BCCI.
Pandya has led India in 16 T20Is and led them to wins in 10 of them. He also donned the captain’s hat three times in ODIs. In 2022, Hardik also succeeded as the captain of GT, leading them to their maiden IPL title. Hardik was asked about being the potential replacement for Rohit keeping the 2026 T20 World Cup in mind, but the Mumbai Indians skipper chose to remain tight-lipped on the possibility and rather spoke about the incumbent India skipper and Kohli.
“There is a lot of time for 2026. I am very happy for both Rohit and Virat…two giants and legends of Indian cricket thoroughly deserved this. It has been so amazing playing with them for so many years. We all will miss them but at the same point, this is the best farewell we can give them…,” he said. India’s first assignment post-T20 World Cup will be a three-match T20I series in Zimbabwe, starting July 5. Shivam Dube will be the only member of the present World Cup squad to participate in the tour, and Gill will lead the Indian side.
Hardik might return for the three-match T20Is against Sri Lanka later in July before the regular ODI side will take on the Islanders in a three-match contest in August in preparations for the Champions Trophy. With the retirement of the veterans, the think tank is expected to groom leadership candidates in their upcoming white-ball assignments. The two-time champions will also appoint a full-time captain of the Indian side in the shortest format. Since 2022, India have been led by Pant, Hardik, KL Rahul, Bumrah, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Suryakumar in the absence of regular captain Rohit. With Rohit calling time on his incredible T20I career, it will be interesting to see who will get BCCI’s final nod to become the regular captain of the Asian giants.
According to a poll, white-ball maverick Hardik has emerged as a frontrunner to become the full-time T20I captain. The T20 World Cup 2024 hero amassed 50% of the votes to become an outright favourite for the captaincy throne. Hardik was followed by pace ace Bumrah, who was named the Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup. Former world no.1 batter Suryakumar finished third while stand-in skipper for the Zimbabwe series, Shubman Gill, bagged the fourth spot.
Security researchers have issued a grave warning about a massive database of leaked passwords that has recently surfaced online. The database, named “RockYou2024,” contains nearly 10 billion unique passwords stored in plain text. This alarming development was reported by Forbes and has sent shockwaves through the cybersecurity community.
The database, a text file, was posted on a hacker forum at the end of last week and quickly caught the attention of experts. According to CyberNews, this unprecedented collection of stolen passwords has the potential to unleash a wave of data breaches, financial fraud, and identity theft. The RockYou2024 leak appears to be a compilation of old and new data breaches, creating a significant threat landscape.
“In its essence, the RockYou2024 leak is a compilation of real-world passwords used by individuals all over the world. Revealing that many passwords for threat actors substantially heightens the risk of credential stuffing attacks,” CyberNews researchers explained. Credential stuffing is a common technique used by hackers to exploit stolen login credentials from one website to gain unauthorized access to another. This is particularly effective when individuals reuse the same login information across multiple platforms.
The team at CyberNews cautioned that threat actors could exploit the RockYou2024 password compilation to conduct brute-force attacks and gain unauthorized access to various online accounts. These attacks are especially concerning for individuals who have passwords included in the dataset.
RockYou2024 builds on an earlier leak known as RockYou2021, which was a text file shared by hackers three years ago. The new leak’s sheer size and scope dwarf its predecessor, making it one of the largest password leaks in history.
To protect themselves from credential stuffing and other cyber-attacks following this breach, CyberNews advises individuals to take immediate action:
Reset Passwords: Immediately reset passwords for all accounts that rely on a password included in the database. This is the first line of defense to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access.
Unique Alpha-Numeric Passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for each online account. A strong password should include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Activate multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all accounts. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a one-time code sent to your phone number or generated by an authentication app, in addition to your password.
Use a Password Manager: Utilize a password manager to generate, store, and manage complex passwords. Password managers can help create strong, unique passwords for each account and store them securely.
Check for Breaches: Use tools like “Have I Been Pwned” or CyberNews’ personal data leak checker to see if your details have been compromised. These tools can alert you if your email addresses or passwords have been part of known data breaches.
The breach also highlights the importance of using special characters in passwords. Researchers found that many of the leaked passwords were either all lowercase or uppercase English letters with a few numerical digits. Passwords lacking complexity can be cracked in just 17 seconds if they have eight or fewer characters.
The RockYou2024 leak underscores the critical need for robust password practices and heightened awareness of cybersecurity threats. In an increasingly digital world, where personal and financial information is often stored online, protecting one’s digital identity is paramount. By adopting strong password policies, enabling multi-factor authentication, and staying vigilant about potential data breaches, individuals can better safeguard their online accounts and personal information against cybercriminals.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning that Karachi and Hyderabad are at risk of urban flooding due to expected heavy rains in Sindh. The authority has advised the provincial disaster management departments and local administrations to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures to safeguard the population at risk.
The NDMA’s warning comes as scattered rainfall, windstorms, and thunderstorms are expected in various districts, including Kashmore, Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Umerkot, Badin, Mithi, Tharparkar, and adjacent areas, within the next 12 to 24 hours. This downpour could result in localized urban flooding and medium-level overflows in nullahs, putting people living in low-lying areas at risk. The authority has urged people dwelling in these areas to take extra caution and undertake emergency preparations given the potential for urban flooding.
The Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) has also predicted a chance of rain with thunderstorms in the country’s financial hub, Karachi, today. An ongoing monsoon activity is likely to affect the weather in the coming days, according to the Met Office. Moreover, more monsoon currents are likely to penetrate from the Arabian Sea in upper parts of the country from July 10. Residents of Karachi experienced heavy rain and strong winds a day earlier, bringing an end to the persistent heat spell that has gripped the city in recent weeks.
In light of this warning, it is essential for residents of Karachi and Hyderabad to stay informed and follow instructions from local authorities to ensure their safety. The NDMA’s warning highlights the need for preparedness and caution in the face of potential urban flooding. By taking necessary precautions and staying vigilant, the risk of damage and harm can be minimized, and the impact of urban flooding can be mitigated.
A Pakistan Army captain embraced martyrdom in a gunbattle with terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.
As the security forces ramp up efforts to wipe out the scourge of terrorism from the country, 24-year-old Captain Muhammad Osama bin Arshad, a resident of Rawalpindi district, laid down his life in the motherland’s defence.
“On 9 July 2024, a fire exchange took place between security forces and terrorists in the North Waziristan district,” the military’s media wing said.
The ISPR statement said that two terrorists “were sent to hell” as troops effectively engaged effectively engaged the terrorists’ location during the fierce exchange of gunfire.
However, Captain Muhammad Osama, who led his troops from the front, fighting gallantly, made the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat, the ISPR said.
The ISPR further said that the sanitisation operation is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area.
“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” it added.
Last week, the security forces conducted the IBO on the reported presence of high-profile local terrorist commander Irfan Ullah Adnan, who was killed during an intense exchange of fire, the ISPR had said.
The slain terrorist was actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against security forces as well as extortion and targeted killings of innocent civilians, according to the ISPR. He was a most-wanted terrorist by law-enforcement agencies.
Since the Taliban came into power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has witnessed a significant surge in terrorist attacks on security forces, especially in provinces bordering the neighbouring country in recent months with the militants using advanced weaponry and equipment.
With the security forces hitting hard on terrorism, frequency of such incidents of violence went down in recent month. The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) Annual Security report stated that during the second quarter of the current year, Pakistan witnessed 380 violence-linked fatalities and 220 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws, resulting from as many as 240 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations.
In the backdrop of this, the federal cabinet last month approved the launching of the counter-terrorism operation — Operation Azm-e-Istehkam — following the National Action Plan’s Central Apex Committee’s recommendations to root out terrorism from the country.
The weather in Karachi turned pleasant on Tuesday afternoon as several parts of the city experienced intermittent rainfall. The areas that witnessed rain included Old City, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulistan-e-Johar, Saddar, II Chundrigar Road, Malir, Airport, Quaidabad, Federal B Area, and Tariq Road.
Earlier today, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had forecasted rain with thunderstorms in some parts of the port city, despite the prediction of hot and humid weather. “There is a likelihood of rain with thunderstorm in some parts of Karachi after noon,” said the Met Office, adding that there might be light to moderate rain in some places.
The department also indicated that the weather is expected to remain hot and humid over the next 24 hours. The minimum temperature recorded in the city was 30°C, with the maximum temperature likely to hover between 35°C to 37°C. The percentage of humidity in the air was noted at 59%.
In light of the expected heavy rains across Sindh, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued an urban flooding warning for Karachi, Hyderabad, and other areas. Scattered rainfall, windstorms, and thunderstorms are anticipated in Kashmore, Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Umerkot, Badin, Mithi, Tharparkar, and adjacent areas within the next 12 to 24 hours.
This downpour poses a risk of localized urban flooding and medium-level overflows in nullahs, putting people living in low-lying areas at risk. The NDMA has advised provincial disaster management departments and local administrations to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures to safeguard the population at risk.
The ongoing monsoon activity is likely to affect the weather in the coming days, as per the Met Office. “Met Office informed that more monsoon currents are likely to penetrate from the Arabian Sea in upper parts of the country from 10th July,” stated the latest weather update. This means that Karachi and other parts of Sindh might continue to experience rainfall and thunderstorms, which could further impact daily life and infrastructure.
Urban flooding is a significant concern for Karachi, given the city’s history of drainage and infrastructure issues. Heavy rainfall often leads to waterlogging in various parts of the city, disrupting traffic and daily activities. The local government and disaster management authorities are expected to take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of potential flooding.
In preparation, the city administration may need to ensure that drainage systems are clear and functional, and that emergency response teams are ready to act swiftly. Public awareness campaigns can also help inform residents about safety measures during heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
Overall, while the rainfall brings much-needed relief from the heat, it also necessitates vigilance and preparedness to address the associated risks. The cooperation between the NDMA, PMD, local government, and residents will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the monsoon season.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has granted a “free hand” to the men’s team’s coaches during a meeting with white-ball coach Gary Kirsten, red-ball coach Jason Gillespie, and Assistant Coach Azhar Mahmood. This meeting, focusing on team coaching, concluded with an agreement that players’ inclusion in the squad would be contingent on their fitness levels.
The context of this meeting is critical, occurring in the wake of severe criticism following Pakistan’s poor performance in the T20 World Cup 2024. The Men in Green failed to advance to the Super Eight stage, showcasing subpar performance in batting, bowling, and fielding. They suffered a surprising loss to the United States and a subsequent disappointing defeat against India, leading to their early elimination from the tournament.
Kirsten had recently submitted a “confidential” assessment report on the national side’s performance in the World Cup, highlighting areas needing improvement. In the meeting, Naqvi and the coaches discussed a comprehensive plan to enhance the team’s batting, bowling, and fielding departments.
While acknowledging the abundant talent in Pakistan, the meeting participants recognized the current lack of a strong team combination. The foreign coaches shared their strategies to boost the team’s performance, with Naqvi expressing his full support for their suggestions. “We have full confidence in you and will support you fully regarding matters related to players’ coaching,” Naqvi assured the coaches.
Gillespie and Kirsten were appointed as Pakistan’s red and white-ball coaches respectively on a two-year contract. Kirsten, who led India to World Cup victory in 2011, began his tenure with Pakistan during the five-match T20I series against England and the T20 World Cup 2024. Gillespie is set to lead Pakistan for the first time during the red-ball series against Bangladesh, part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, scheduled for the end of August.
In his first press conference as red-ball coach, Gillespie expressed his enthusiasm for working with the team. “I am excited to work with the Pakistan cricket team,” Gillespie said. Reflecting on Pakistan’s last tour to Australia, where they lost the series 3-0 but had moments of dominance, Gillespie emphasized the need for consistency. “The Pakistan cricket team is very talented but the lack of consistency in performances is the main problem. We will see how we can bring continuity and consistency in performances,” he noted.
The decision to allow the coaches more autonomy comes as a strategic move to address the underlying issues in the team’s performance. With Naqvi’s backing, Kirsten, Gillespie, and Mahmood are expected to implement their plans rigorously, aiming to build a more cohesive and consistent team. This support is crucial as the coaches work to identify and nurture talent, develop effective team combinations, and instill a culture of sustained high performance.
As Pakistan gears up for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, the focus will be on translating these plans into tangible improvements on the field. The coaching staff’s experience and strategic insights will be pivotal in this endeavor. The PCB’s commitment to supporting the coaches suggests a long-term vision for rebuilding the team’s strength and competitiveness on the international stage.
The cricketing fraternity will keenly watch how these initiatives unfold, hoping for a resurgence of Pakistan cricket that aligns with the nation’s rich cricketing heritage and potential. With the leadership of Kirsten and Gillespie, supported by the PCB’s strategic direction, there is optimism that Pakistan cricket can overcome its recent setbacks and emerge stronger.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the government would maintain stable electricity rates for protected customers who consume up to 200 units of power for three months, specifically July, August, and September. This move comes in response to public outcry over a significant tariff increase, which was part of the conditions to secure a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking at an event in Islamabad, Prime Minister Sharif stated that the subsidy would benefit 94% of household electricity consumers, costing the national exchequer Rs50 billion. This subsidy will be funded through the budget’s development fund. Sharif highlighted that the previous government, led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), had reduced power prices without making corresponding budget allocations.
Under this new subsidy package, the per-unit cost of electricity for these consumers will range between Rs4 to Rs5. Consumers of K-Electric will also be eligible for this subsidy. The prime minister emphasized that this decision aims to provide relief to the common man during the peak summer months when electricity consumption is typically higher.
Sharif explained that the summer months of July, August, and September are particularly challenging due to increased electricity usage. However, as the weather becomes more pleasant in October, electricity consumption tends to decrease. This subsidy is designed to help households cope with the high costs during the summer.
According to Reuters, Pakistan’s annual power usage is expected to fall consecutively for the first time in 16 years due to higher tariffs curbing household consumption. The prime minister assured the public of further relief measures, attributing them to ongoing government efforts to tax the elite class, expand the tax net, close non-performing entities, and reduce financial leakages.
Sharif also mentioned that the government is in the process of negotiating a three-year program with the IMF. This program is essential for Pakistan to manage its fiscal challenges, and the IMF has been informed about the relief measures for domestic power consumers. He emphasized that entering a new IMF program is necessary for Pakistan’s financial stability.
For the fiscal year that began on July 1, Pakistan has set a tax revenue target of 13 trillion rupees ($47 billion), representing a nearly 40% increase from the previous year. The government aims to reduce its fiscal deficit to 5.9% of GDP from 7.4% last year.
Earlier this month, to unlock the IMF program of over $6 billion, the federal government announced significant increases in the end-power tariff for both protected and unprotected consumers, which was to take effect from July 1, 2024. For protected consumers, those consuming 1-100 units saw their tariff increase by Rs3.95 per unit, while those consuming 101-200 units experienced a Rs4.10 per unit increase. Unprotected consumers faced even steeper hikes, with those in the 1-100 units slab seeing a 43% increase in their tariff.
These tariff increases have caused considerable concern among consumers. For instance, unprotected consumers using 101-200 units per month now pay 31% more, with their tariff rising by Rs7.15 per unit to Rs30.10 from Rs22.95 per unit. Those consuming 201-300 units per month faced a 26% increase, while those in the 301-400 units slab saw a 22% hike.
Consumers in the higher usage categories also experienced significant increases. For example, those using 401-500 units per month faced a 17% increase, while those consuming 501-600 units per month also saw a 17% hike. Consumers using 601-700 units per month faced a 16% increase, and those consuming above 700 units per month saw a 14% hike in their tariffs.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement to maintain stable electricity rates for protected consumers aims to provide much-needed relief during the peak summer months. This subsidy, funded through the budget’s development fund, is designed to alleviate the financial burden on 94% of household consumers. As the government negotiates a new IMF program and implements measures to stabilize the economy, it remains committed to easing the cost of living for its citizens.
In June 2024, remittances to Pakistan surged by 44% to $3.16 billion compared to $2.2 billion in the same month a year ago. This substantial increase comes despite a slight month-on-month decline from $3.24 billion in May 2024. Analysts attribute the year-on-year growth to a significant rise in legal fund transfers, as more overseas Pakistanis utilized regulated channels such as banks and exchange companies.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported that remittances for the fiscal year 2023-24 reached $30.3 billion, up 10.7% from $27.3 billion in FY23. This increase is largely credited to a stable currency and rigorous crackdowns on illegal dollar activities and speculators, encouraging the use of official transfer channels.
Saudi Arabia emerged as the leading source of remittances, with $808.6 million sent in June 2024. While this amount was 1% lower than May 2024, it represented a 57% increase from $516.1 million in June 2023. The United Arab Emirates followed with $654.3 million, a 2% decline from the previous month but a significant 101% increase from $324.8 million a year earlier. Remittances from the United Kingdom rose 3% month-on-month to $487.4 million, while inflows from the European Union dropped by nearly 3% to $330 million. The United States saw a 10% month-on-month decrease, with $322.1 million sent in June 2024.
This positive trend in remittances is reflected in a recent World Bank report, “Migration and Development Brief 40,” which positioned Pakistan among the top five recipients of remittances in 2023. The report forecasts a recovery and growth of remittances to Pakistan, predicting a 7% increase to $28 billion in 2024 and a further 4% rise to about $30 billion in 2025.
Globally, India topped the list of remittance recipients in 2023 with an estimated inflow of $120 billion, followed by Mexico ($66 billion), China ($50 billion), the Philippines ($39 billion), and Pakistan ($27 billion). These funds serve as a crucial economic lifeline, especially for households in developing countries.
Remittances are more than just financial transfers; they play a vital role in alleviating poverty, improving nutritional outcomes, and supporting higher enrollment rates for children in disadvantaged households. They enable recipient families to build resilience by financing better housing and aiding recovery from natural disasters.
The notable increase in legal remittance channels can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the crackdown on illegal money changers and dollar speculators has driven more people to use official channels. Secondly, the growing number of Pakistani immigrants in other countries has contributed to the increase. Lastly, the stable currency and improving economic conditions in Pakistan have encouraged more expatriates to send money home through regulated means.
The importance of remittances cannot be overstated, particularly in times of economic uncertainty. They provide a steady income stream for many households, helping to smooth consumption, pay for healthcare and education, and invest in small businesses. The World Bank highlights the role of remittances in reducing poverty and supporting economic stability in recipient countries.
The significant increase in remittances to Pakistan in June 2024 highlights the crucial role of these funds in the country’s economy. With continued efforts to encourage legal fund transfers and a stable economic environment, Pakistan can expect to see sustained growth in remittances, providing essential support to millions of families and contributing to the nation’s overall economic resilience.
