The Punjab traffic police on Monday issued hundreds of e-challans to the vehicles emitting excessive smoke, after introducing modern electronic traffic policing with the help of artificial intelligence.
Stating that every smoke-emitting vehicle will be checked with modern AI-powered cameras, the Punjab government also announced that challans would be served to violators of traffic rules with evidence attached to them.
“As per Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz’s vision, smoke-emitting vehicles are being challaned through the Safe City cameras, as the process of issuing e-challans on violation of traffic and environmental laws has been expedited,” it said in a statement.
It said pictures and videos of vehicles emitting smoke in Lahore are being attached to the e-challans, which was a common practice in the world’s developed countries.
Senior Punjab minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the culture of traffic policing was changing under the supervision of CM Maryam Nawaz.
Aurangzeb said environmental protection and enforcement of traffic laws were being ensured with the help of modern technology.
“Phase-wise modern electronic traffic policing system will be implemented in every city of Punjab. With the cooperation of citizens, Punjab will become an ideal smoke-free province with modern policing, God willing,” she said.
Earlier on Sunday, CM Maryam presided over a meeting to finalise the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA), as the provincial government has apparently shifted its focus towards technology as well as technical education.
“Innovation in technical training courses is the need of the hour for economic growth and reduction of unemployment,” she told the meeting.
The chief minister directed that advanced courses in market-driven trades should be taught in TEVTA institutes.
“The new courses must include training in building, textiles, garments, tourism, hospitality, information communication technology, automobile assembly and repair, professional training in food processing, biomedical technology, light engineering, renewable energy, and surgical instruments,” she said.
Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) has said that the armed forces are already rendering sacrifices in the battle against terrorists and stressed that it is time for the nation to stand up against militants and “digital terrorists”.
The DG ISPR, while speaking during a press conference in Rawalpindi on Monday, said: “Digital terrorism is being done on social media. The army is standing up against terrorists and digital terrorists. The time has come for the entire nation to stand up against them.”
Lieutenant General Chaudhry said that unfortunately, serious issues were also being politicised in Pakistan, presenting Azm-e-Istehkam as an example.
“Azm-e-Istehkam is a comprehensive and integrated counter-terrorism campaign, not a military operation per se as it is being presented,” the DG ISPR said during a press conference in Rawalpindi.
Recalling that an Apex Committee — the country’s top security body — meeting was held on June 22 over Azm-e-Istehkam, he said that the statement following the huddle noted that “we have made an anti-terrorism policy with national consensus”.
The DG ISPR, addressing concerns over the campaign, said that no-go areas do not exist across the country, clarifying that there would be no more displacements due to Azm-e-Istehkam.
As there was much hue and cry over the newly announced campaign, the army’s spokesperson informed journalists that the Prime Minister’s Office released a statement on June 24 to clarify the matter.
“Azm-e-Istehkam is not a military operation. Why is Azm-e-Istehkam being made controversial? There’s a strong lobby which wants the objectives of Azm-e-Istehkam not to be fulfilled. It is being politicised.”
“Why did a mafia, political mafia, and an illegal mafia say that they would not let this [campaign] happen?” he questioned, adding that a certain political mafia wants to make Azm-e-Istehkam controversial.
Providing statistics over the ongoing operations, he said that the army is conducting four to five operations per hour on a daily basis — clarifying that the war against terrorism was already in full form.
The security forces conducted 22,409 intelligence-based operations this year, he said, explaining further that armed forces, police, intelligence agencies, and other law enforcement agencies are conducting more than 112 operations daily.
“During these operations, 31 high-value targets have been killed. This year 137 officers and soldiers laid their lives in the operations,” the army’s spokesperson told journalists.
Lt Gen Chaudhry explained that the army had cleared several areas of terrorists but if the governments do not ensure reconstruction of those areas, then the army will have to deploy its forces over there to “hold the area”.
“The army is clearing the areas, holding it, and then it is the provincial government’s task to build and transfer. If you don’t build and transfer to the people, then terrorists will emerge again and you will remain in a vicious cycle of ‘clear and hold’.”
The DG ISPR explained that if such a cycle continues, then it will be easier for certain elements to incite the locals of the area against the army and a false narrative would also be made against the forces.
“In conclusion, Azm-e-Istehkam is a comprehensive campaign against terrorism. If we follow it, it will not just wipe out terrorism, but also the country. The stakes are very high.”
What happened in Bannu? Moving on in the press conference, he said that on July 15, eight military personnel embraced martyrdom and sent “all terrorists to hell”. He informed journalists that Sepoy Saqib threw himself onto the grenade to save everyone else.
“The very next day, people in Bannu staged a march, saying that they wanted peace. Some armed personnel were also part of the peace march,” the DG ISPR said.
Providing details about the march, in which a person died while several others were injured, he said that people participating in the demonstration had broken down an under-construction wall while they had also looted a supply depot.
“Some armed people opened fire, which led to the loss of life. In Bannu, the army personnel followed their response SOP accordingly. Similarly, people had also raised questions as to why did the army not fire on May 9.”
Explaining the SOP of the army, he said that if an “anarchist group” approaches a military installation, it is first given a warning, and then it is dealt with.
“It is the provincial government’s job to control a mob, not the army’s. However, at the same time, people can definitely hold their peace march,” the spokesperson said.
While he showed footage of the Bannu incident and said that armed personnel could be seen, he stressed: “Hold demonstrations against terrorists.”
He said that as soon as this incident took place, there was a hue and cry on social media. “This shows how digital terrorists are supporting terrorists on the ground.”
TTP leader’s audio leak When inquired about what action would Pakistan take after Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Chief Noor Wali Mehsud’s audio leak came to the fore, he assured that the authorities were pursuing the matter.
Sources had earlier informed Geo News that the government will not only seek the extradition of terrorists from Afghanistan but will also lodge a strong protest with the Afghan Taliban-led interim administration over the TTP head’s presence in the country and his direct involvement in terrorist attacks inside Pakistan.
A disturbing phone call featuring Noor came to the surface wherein he could be heard giving instructions to his henchmen for attacks in Pakistan.
The other voices in the audio call were identified as local commanders Ahmad Hussain Mehsud alias Ghat Haji, and Saqib Gandapur.
The conversation revolves around the TTP chief’s orders on how to inflame the security situation in the country. In that conversation, he can be heard outlining two main methods for disrupting peace and order in Pakistan.
While talking about the audio call, the Lt Gen said that Mehsud could be heard directing his men to blow up hospitals and schools, but not name him.
“They do not even have the courage to take responsibility for their actions,” he said.
TLP sit-in Intimating the journalists about the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) recent sit-in, he said that the government and institutions were trying to resolve the issue keeping in mind the “sensitivity and emotions” of the people as it was related to the Palestinian issue.
He ruled out the establishment’s role in the sit-in and said that tomorrow if Jamaat-e-Islami were to stage a sit-in in Islamabad, people would still claim that the army was behind it.
“There’s so much fake news that people keep saying whatever they want to. Since the protesters cleared the area peacefully, it was being claimed that there’s ‘someone’s hand’ behind it,” he added.
The military’s spokesperson added that the army and government have a very clear stance on the Palestinian issue, stressing that a genocide was underway in Gaza.
“The genocide in Gaza is completely unacceptable. We have sent 1,118 tonnes of aid to Gaza,” he said, vowing continuous support for the oppressed Palestinians.
At least 39,006 Palestinians have been killed and 89,818 have been injured in the Israeli military offensive on Gaza since October 7, the Gaza health ministry said in a statement on Monday.
Digital terrorists hard to pinpoint “It’s hard to pinpoint the exact location of a digital terrorist,” DG ISPR said.
While stressing effective steps to stop the spread of fabricated and false information on social media platforms, the DG ISPR said, “The rampant influx of “fake news” targeting the armed forces and their leadership has been ongoing unchecked for a long time, with no one facing any serious consequences so far.”
To eliminate this menace, he said that the law would have to stop the digital terrorists by penalising them. “Instead of the law going after them, they were given more space.”
Some people [who were involved in spreading fake news] have been hailed as heroes in the name of freedom of expression, he added.
The DG ISPR said if they did not stand up against these elements they would gain more ground, benefitting the enemies of Pakistan.
He pointed out that “a foreign group was stationed in Afghanistan, whereas, India was also waiting for the country’s institutions and armed forces to weaken so that it could perpetrate a strike.
An 18-year-old boy was allegedly burned to death over a land dispute in Muzaffargarh, south Punjab, Geo News reported Monday.
The teenager, Ehsanullah, was burned alive in Seetpur, a city in Alipur Tehsil of Muzaffargarh, the police revealed.
The police added that a case against the perpetrators has been registered on behalf of the boy’s uncle.
According to first information report (FIR) filed by the victim’s uncle, their family and the suspects were involved in a land dispute.
It further stated that the young boy was taken to the THQ hospital in Alipur which referred him to Multan.
Additionally, the FIR stated that the victim was tied to a tree and set on fire. It added that he later succumbed to his injuries. The uncle said that he has also been issued death threats before.
The police filed a murder case against four people at the Seetpur police station on the family’s complaint.
The law enforcement officials said that a investigation of the case is undergoing and they are conducting raids to arrest the suspects.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has admitted that he gave a call for a protest outside the army headquarters in Rawalpindi before his arrest, Geo News reported Monday.
The former prime minister made the admission while speaking to the journalists during a hearing of a case inside Adiala prisons.
“I had given a call for holding a peaceful protest outside the General Headquarters (GHQ) before my arrest,” Imran Khan said, adding that police and Rangers attacked my house in Zaman Park on 14 March.
“Later on March 18, the law enforcers again forcibly barged into my house,” he said, adding that on the same day, the Judicial Complex witnessed shelling inside and outside its compound.
The cricketer-turned-politician referred to an incident last year when, ahead of his appearance before the court of Additional Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal, fierce clashes erupted between his supporters and security personnel.
Back then, he had claimed that the government was planning to either assassinate or arrest him inside the Judicial Complex.
Recalling the March 18 incident, he said he understood that he would be arrested, adding that he then called for a peaceful protest in front of the army’s headquarters before his arrest.
The PTI founder said his counsels assured him that they would be part of the investigation and surrender to the police for arrest.
Replying to a question, the 71-year-old former premier said martial law was better than a technocratic regime, adding, “An unannounced martial law, however, remains in place in the country, aleready.”
BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, in its “Pakistan Country Risk Report” published on July 18, predicted who would fill the vacuum created by the “anticipated ouster” of the incumbent government.
“In the unlikely event that the government is replaced, the most likely alternative is a technocratic administration rather than fresh elections,” the BMI said.
On July 15, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore approved a 10-day physical remand of the deposed premier in cases related to the May 9, 2023, violent protests. He attended the hearing via video link today (Monday) in ATC judge Arshad Nadeem’s courtroom.
The PTI founder denied the charges and told the court that he had neither any connection with the May 9 events nor did he order the riots.
“I was attacked in Wazirabad,” the PTI founder said, adding, “[…] but an FIR (first information report) was not registered according to my will despite my [party’s] government [in Punjab].”
He further alleged that CCTV footage disappeared from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises.
Referring to the raid on his Zaman Park residence in Lahore, the deposed PM said he had given a call for a peaceful protest in response to an “attack on my home”.
The former premier, who was ousted from power via the opposition’s no-confidence motion in April 2022, said that he had requested the Supreme Court to hold a judicial inquiry into the May 9 mayhem. He added that he had also reminded the chief justice to hear his petition.
The ATC was hearing 12 cases related to the May 9 riots against the former premier which erupted following his arrest from Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises last year in which protesters targeted government and military installations.
Of the 12 cases, five cases had been registered at Sarwar Road Police Station, three cases lodged at Gulberg Police Station, and one case each at Race Course, Shadman, Mughalpura, and Model Town police stations.
In a turn of events, Lahore police swung into action immediately after the ex-premier and his wife Bushra Bibi got acquitted in the iddat case — also known as the un-Islamic nikah case — on Saturday which was the last hurdle in the couple’s release from jail.
The couple was arrested, again, in a new National Accountability Bureau (NAB) reference related to Toshakhana gifts on the same day.
After the anti-corruption watchdog secured Khan’s eight-day remand in the fresh Toshakhana case, Lahore police also declared the former premier’s arrest in connection with 12 cases related to the May 9 mayhem registered at different police stations of the provincial capital.
Famous Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has been released on bail following his detention by the local police on a complaint of criminal defamation filed by his former manager Salman Ahmad.
Rahat issued a video statement after Geo News aired the news of his arrest. He asked his followers “not to pay attention” to rumours but didn’t deny that he was detained and questioned by the police at the Bur Police station.
Evidence shows that the Dubai police formally registered the case for action against the singer on 13 July this year, after Salman’s lawyers advanced it to the police.
Sources confirmed the singer was arrested in Dubai after he arrived from Lahore for a musical collaboration. The singer was detained at the immigration centre and taken into police custody for questioning. He was released after submitting his statement before the police. Rahat and Salman have filed several cases against each other.
Rahat’s local manager and promoter in Dubai hired lawyers after his detention and secured his bail. Rahat is accompanied in Dubai by his brother-in-law Bakka Burki.
He has filed cases against Salman in Pakistan and Salman has filed cases against Rahat in Dubai and USA, alleging criminal defamation and contractual violations. Rahat has denied all allegations against him.
The singer released a video on his Instagram handle, asking people not to believe in reports of his arrest. “I came to Dubai to record a song. Some malicious reports are circulating about my arrest. Please do not believe them.”
“I will be coming back to my beloved country and will release more superhit songs,” Rahat also said while asking his fans to keep supporting him.
After imposing restrictions on the issuance of travel documents to asylum seekers abroad for over a month, the federal government has lifted the ban on handing over passports to overseas Pakistanis seeking refuge in foreign countries.
The decision was taken in a high-level session chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on Monday. They reviewed the previous decision to suspend the issuance of Pakistani passports to asylum seekers abroad.
The session, which was attended by secretaries of the ministries of foreign affairs and interior, senior officers and others, also mulled over important matters related to the welfare of overseas nationals, a declaration read.
A circular regarding the restrictions was issued on June 5, 2024, to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant authorities.
According to the letter, the step was taken in “national interest under national security and international commitment”.
Furthermore, Dar also received a briefing from concerned officials over the smooth and timely issuance of travel documents to nationals residing in foreign countries.
In today’s session, the federal government decided to issue passports to overseas Pakistanis within 60 days.
The ban on the issuance of passports to asylum seekers had been imposed by the Passport and Immigration Directorate which was notified via a letter last month, The News reported.
It said that Pakistanis who have applied for asylum abroad or who have already received asylum abroad, would not be issued passports, the publication said.
As the ongoing deadly protests in Bangladesh widened, Pakistani students present in the South Asian country have been moved to safety to keep them from harm, a Foreign Office spokesperson said on Saturday.
Student-led protests against the job quota have killed at least 110 people this week, with the government deploying army to quell the deadly events.
For five days police have fired tear gas, rubber bullets and hurled sound grenades to scatter protesters throwing bricks and setting fire to vehicles.
Assuring the safety of the Pakistani students present in Dhaka and other cities of Bangladesh, the FO said that they had been shifted to secure locations.
The spokesperson said that Pakistan’s mission in Dhaka is in contact with all the Pakistani students and the deputy head of the mission has met some of them present in Chitagong.
“All students are safe,” the FO spokesperson said, adding that the Pakistani High Commission has accommodated them at safe sites.
“These include the high commission building, the Pakistani ambassador’s residence, and some other safe places,” the statement added.
The demonstrations — the biggest since Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was re-elected for a fourth successive term this year — have also been fuelled by high unemployment among young people, who make up nearly a fifth of the population.
With the death toll climbing and police and other security forces unable to contain the protests, Hasina’s government imposed a national curfew and deployed the military, who were given orders to shoot on sight if needed.
Soldiers patrolled the deserted streets of the Bangladesh capital Dhaka on Saturday, setting up roadblocks during a curfew imposed in response to the protests.
Internet and text message services have remained suspended since Thursday, cutting the nation off as police cracked down on protesters who defied a ban on public gatherings.
Overseas telephone calls mostly failed to connect while websites of Bangladesh-based media organisations did not update and their social media accounts remained inactive.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has heaped praise on former president and Republican nominee for the presidential election, Donald Trump after an attempt was made to assassinate him.
Zuckerberg called Trump’s raised fist while he was being escorted off the stage after a bullet grazed his ear, “one of the most badass things I’ve ever seen in my life,” as quoted by NBC News.
Further praising Trump’s response to the shooting at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, Meta CEO stated: “At some level as an American, it’s hard to not, like, get kind of emotional about that spirit and that fight. And I think that’s why a lot of people like the guy.”
Zuckerberg had previously, in an interview with Bloomberg, stated that he would not involve himself in the election due in November.
Over the years, Zuckerberg has faced backlash from Trump and President Joe Biden with the former US president stating that he would not ban TikTok in the US because it would benefit social media platforms owned by the Meta CEO.
Trump has recently threatened Zuckerberg with imprisonment if he were to be elected the next president through his own social media platform, called Truth Social.
Zuckerberg was a Republican in the past as in 2013, he hosted a fundraiser for then-governor of New Jersey and Republican Chris Christie. That changed in 2020 when the creator of Facebook donated 350 million dollars to local election offices raising questions and accusations from the Republic Party that the CEO was aiding Biden in his campaign.
As for President Biden, he expressed wariness over the CEO during his presidential campaign in 2020, telling the New York Times, “I’ve never been a big Zuckerberg fan. I think he’s a real problem.”
Soldiers patrolled the deserted streets of the Bangladesh capital Dhaka on Saturday and the government ordered all offices and institutions to stay closed for two days after over 114 people were killed this week during student-led protests against government job quotas.
At least four people died, according to hospital data, during sporadic clashes on Saturday in some areas of Dhaka, which has been the centre of the protests, and where security forces set up road blocks to enforce a curfew.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government declared Sunday and Monday as “public holidays” due to the situation in the country, with only emergency services allowed to operate.
Authorities had earlier closed universities and colleges from Wednesday.
Nationwide unrest broke out following student anger against the quotas for government jobs.
Hasina’s government had scrapped the quota system in 2018, but a court reinstated it last month. The Supreme Court suspended the decision after a government appeal and will hear the case on Sunday after agreeing to bring forward a hearing scheduled for Aug 7.
The demonstrations — the biggest since Hasina was re-elected for a fourth successive term this year — have also been fuelled by high unemployment among young people, who make up nearly a fifth of the population.
Internet and text message services in Bangladesh have been suspended since Thursday, cutting the nation off as police cracked down on protesters who defied a ban on public gatherings.
Overseas telephone calls mostly failed to connect while websites of Bangladesh-based media organisations did not update and their social media accounts remained inactive.
“To take a country of nearly 170 million people off the Internet is a drastic step, one we haven’t seen since the likes of the Egyptian revolution of 2011,” said John Heidemann, chief scientist of the networking and cybersecurity division at USC Viterbi’s Information Sciences Institute.
The internet shutdown meant many people could not top up their electricity meters, leaving them without power.
The clashes have injured thousands, according to hospitals across Bangladesh. The Dhaka Medical College Hospital received 27 dead bodies last evening.
During the week police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and hurled sound grenades to scatter protesters throwing bricks and setting fire to vehicles.
With the death toll climbing and police and other security forces unable to contain the protests, authorities imposed a national curfew and deployed the military, who were given orders to shoot on sight if needed.
The curfew was eased for two hours from noon on Saturday to allow people to shop for supplies and complete other chores. It will last until 10am (0400 GMT) on Sunday, when the government will assess the situation.
Stone and Debris
Those venturing out had their identification cards inspected by army personnel at check points. TV footage showed troops had set up roadblocks and bunkers using sandbags across strategic locations of Dhaka.
Reuters TV footage showed armed soldiers surveying roads littered with stones and debris as shops remained shuttered. Trees and barricades were uprooted on streets where charred vehicles stood. Young men played football on a deserted road during the relaxation in the curfew.
In the central Bangladesh district of Narsingdi, protesters stormed a jail on Friday, freeing over 850 inmates and setting fire to the facility, TV channels reported, citing police. Scattered incidents of arson were also reported on Saturday in some parts of the country.
Many opposition party leaders, activists and student protesters had been arrested, said Tarique Rahman, the exiled acting chairman of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Police arrested Nahid Islam, a leading student coordinator, at 2am on Saturday, the protesters said in a text message.
Reuters could not independently confirm the arrests.
Neighbouring India said nearly 1,000 Indian students had returned home since the violence began.
Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities said students stuck in Bangladesh were moved to “safe places”.
“The rising death toll is a shocking indictment of the absolute intolerance shown by the Bangladeshi authorities to protest and dissent,” said Babu Ram Pant, the deputy regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International, one of many rights groups that have criticised the government’s handling of the protests.
After forming a committee to hold dialogue with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Saturday claimed that the embattled party agreed to step down from the assemblies and dissolve the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) legislature to force the government into elections.
The religio-political party constituted a committee headed by Kamran Murtaza whose members include Maulana Lutfur Rehman, Mufti Fazal Ghafoor, Aslam Ghauri and Maulana Amjad to hold talks with the Imran Khan-founded party.
The cleric, while talking to journalists in Islamabad today, said that the former ruling party assured him of stepping down from the assemblies and dissolving the KP Assembly.
“The JUI-F committee will finalise the future strategy after holding consultations with the PTI.”
However, speaking to Geo News, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan rejected the JUI-F supremo’s claims that his party had agreed to resign from assemblies.
“We have neither held any consultations with Maulana Fazl regarding resignations or dissolution of the assemblies nor had any decision in this regard,” the PTI chief added.
In today’s interaction, Maulana Fazl also admitted that his party had difference of opinion with political parties and had “bitterness” with the PTI with relations being normalised.
The JUI-F supremo, who was one of the political rivals of the former ruling party, opposed the cases against incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan and other politicians.
He also put forward a demand to hold parliamentary and local government (LG) elections together besides ending the concept of a caretaker set-up.
At the same time, the JUI-F chief also termed the mandate of the PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province “fake”.
The politico, who headed a multi-party opposition alliance — Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) — which successfully ousted former prime minister Khan from power via no-confidence motion in 2022, claimed that his fight with the PTI founder was limited to the electoral arena.
He also slammed “powerless” ruling parties in the Centre — the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — and said that both the parties did not deserve to be in power.
After the 2024 nationwide polls, the religious party had developed differences with the PML-N and the PPP after they formed a coalition government as the former levelled serious allegations of election rigging, interference and manipulation of poll results and demanded fresh elections.
The PTI, which ruled the country from 2018 to 2022, had also formed a negotiation team comprising top party leaders including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Asad Qaiser, Shibli Faraz, and others for holding talks with the Fazl-led party earlier this month, sources told Geo News.
Both parties had also held multiple meetings since the February 8 polls due to their mutual concerns over the alleged interference and manipulation during the general elections.
They also found a common ground in their opposition to the recently announced anti-terror drive titled “Operation Azm-e-Istekham” announced by the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government.
“JUI-F desires peace and a stable economy in the country,” said Fazl and announced forthcoming public events of his party in KP.
He announced that a kisan convention would be organised in Mardan district on August 10, a trader convention in Peshawar on August 11, and an aman (peace) jirga in Lakki Marwat on August 18.
He expressed his views that all politicians should be provoded level-playing field to continue political activities in the country. Fazl added that transparent election is only way to establish peace and stabilise the country’s economy.
Miley Cyrus will reportedly take Katy Perry’s spot on American Idol.
However, a new report of Life & Style established that giving this position to the Grammy-winning songstress might not be the best bargain for Disney and ABC.
An insider recently revealed to the outlet, “The big issue hanging over Katy’s mostly successful run on Idol has been the enormous paycheck she managed to negotiate from the start of her judging term that only increased incrementally in the years since.”
They even referred to Katy’s latest release, Woman’s World and added, “With Katy finally getting back to making music full-time, Disney and ABC are looking to replace her with just as famous a name at a somewhat discounted price.”
However, the insider pointed out, “Nobody expects Miley to do this cheaply, but nobody at the network wants to pay Katy prices for Katy’s replacement.”
“The show absolutely has to get a little bit cheaper no matter who joins the cast because the ratings are slowly declining. That’s just the fact of the matter,” the source also claimed.
In addition to this, the source declared that Miley’s vast fanbase can help the show to regain its popularity as “her fans actually show up to watch her on these shows.”
“That’s really her secret weapon in extracting a big fee from Disney and ABC,” the source continued.
Conclusively, the insider noted, “Miley’s been in this situation before and she knows how to make it work in her favor. The only thing that’s keeping the two sides apart at the moment is Miley’s fee, but she is absolutely the first choice to replace Katy in this franchise.”
US Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has said he will end the war in Ukraine before he even takes office in January should he win the November 5 election.
Trump said in a post on Truth Social that he had a “very good call” on Friday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and pledged to end the war pitting Kyiv against Moscow through negotiations.
Zelensky also reported his conversation with Trump and expressed thanks for US military assistance. But he made no reference in a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to efforts to end the 28-month-old conflict.
Republian candidate has also said that had he been in office when the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, the war would not have taken place.
In his Truth Social post, Trump said that as president he “will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives”.
“Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity,” Trump said.
Though Trump has put forward few tangible policy proposals, he told Reuters in an interview last year that Ukraine might have to cede some territory to reach a peace agreement.
In his post, Zelensky said he congratulated Trump on becoming the Republican nominee and condemned the assassination attempt on him last week.
“I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future,” Zelensky said.
“I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation’s freedom and independence.”
“Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day,” Trump said.
Zelensky rejects any negotiations with Russia on ending the conflict as long as Russian troops remain in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian president has proposed a peace plan, showcased again at a “world summit” last month to which Russia was not invited, that calls for the withdrawal of Russian troops and the restoration of Ukraine’s 1991 post-Soviet borders.
Russian troops occupy about 20% of the Ukrainian territory. Moscow’s forces have made incremental gains in the east of the country along the 1,000km (600 mile) front since capturing the key city of Avdiivka in February.
Britney Spears was recently papped following her split from the criminal boyfriend, Paul Soliz.
As per the latest report of In Touch Weekly, the Princess of Pop, clad in a red turtle-neck top, was papped as she was typed away with one hand jetting off in her white sports car.
This outing comes after a report by the same outlet established that Paul Soliz, Britney Spears former boyfriend, had doubled down on defaming her after she decided to call it quits with him.
An insider revealed to the outlet that the 42-year-old has security concerns from her former convicted boyfriend and therefore she “has told her security guards to remove him from the entry list for her gated community [in Thousand Oaks, California].”
They continued that Paul, who in unhappy about Britney’s “dump,” “is blabbing to everyone about his relationship with Britney, revealing all of her secrets” even though he was just using her.
“He’s tormenting her. No one would be surprised if he sold her story, too. Some even believe he was selling Britney out while he was still with her,” the source revealed.
The source even remarked in conclusion that Britney “is already fragile,” and “this is the last thing she needs right now.”
Taylor Swift just serenaded her boyfriend, Travis Kelce and his sport, football!
On Friday, the Blank Space crooner took the stage Gelsenkirchen’s Veltins Arena in Germany, for her ongoing Eras Tour and expressed her love for her NFL athlete boyfriend.
The 34-year-old performed a rather love themed mashup of her two old songs, the 2019 hit song, Paper Rings from her Lover album and Stay Stay Stay, from her album, Red, that was re-released as Red (Taylor’s Version) in 2021.
“I like shiny things, but I’d marry you with paper rings, that’s right, you’re the one I want,” the songstress sang as she switched to the song, Stay, Stay, Stay, which includes the lyric, “That’s when you came in wearing a football helmet.”
The “football helmet” phrase has taken on new-found meaning since 2023 ever since Taylor Swift started dating the Kansas City Chiefs tight end, Travis Kelce.
Kelce attended his 13th and 14th Eras Tour shows on July 17 and 18, but much to everyone’s dismay, missed this love-filled mashup, as he travelled back to the U.S. for Chiefs training camp in Missouri.
Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren is optimistic that US President Joe Biden is the Democratic nominee going forward in the presidential election 2024, but says that Vice President Kamala Harris is “ready” serve as the party’s candidate if the former steps back.
Warren emphasised in an interview with The Weekend, MSNBC that Biden is the Democratic nominee.
“Look, Joe Biden is our nominee and he has a really big decision to make. Joe Biden has been a transformational president, somebody who gets up every day fighting for working people,” she said.
Warren also expressed her gratitude for the president for leading the federal government for four years.
“I’m deeply grateful to Joe Biden for all that he has accomplished.”
The current president of the United States has been under scrutiny amid his health crisis and recent debacles including the incompetent debate against former president Donald Trump in June where he seemed unwell and out of touch.
Biden’s rising health risk has raised questions in the Democratic camp more so after he was reported to be diagnosed with COVID-19 on Wednesday.
The Democrats are reportedly pressuring Biden to step back and Vice President Kamala Harris to be nominated for presidential candidacy.
Harris has served almost four years in office as VP of Biden and was named running mate by the president for his 2024 election campaign. If Biden is to be reelected for another term in office, then Harris will reassume her role in office.
But revelations made by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez during an Instagram live session have raised questions about whether the Democrats want Harris to be named the new candidate or if they want someone else to take charge.
Ocasio-Cortez revealed that the Democratic Party wants the “entire ticket”, Biden and Harris, gone. “They (the Democrats) are interested in removing the whole ticket,” she said.
However, Senator Warren commented on this matter, saying that Harris being ready to step up if Biden steps back, gives her a lot of hope, retaliating Ocasio-Cortez’s claims.
“What gives me a lot of hope right now is that, if President Biden decides to step back, we have Vice President Kamala Harris who is ready to step up, to unite the party, to take on Donald Trump and to win in November,” she said.
Three Lord Justices of the UK Court of Appeal have ordered the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) to pay £65000, which amounts to around Rs23,333,855 or Rs23.3 million, to the MQM founder Altaf Hussain before July 30, 2024, in legal costs.
Hussain won at the Court of Appeal against his former devotees at MQM-P, who defected from him in August 2016.
According to the order released by the court following a unanimous decision by three judges accepting Hussain’s appeal and overturning an earlier decision favouring MQM-P, the Court of Appeal’s Civil Division has ordered the MQM-P to pay £65000 towards the costs of the appeal.
Generally, the courts order the losing party to make such payments to the claimants or winning side when such applications or petitions are opposed, to begin with, by the defendants.
The court has also permitted Hussain for the release of £77,760 into his lawyer’s account — the amount he was asked to deposit earlier after the single bench judge gave a decision against him.
MQM spokesperson Mustafa Azizabadi told Geo News that Hussain will soon be launching a claim of over £100,000 at the court against MQM-P for the legal costs incurred during the first part of the trial before the Insolvency and Companies Judge Jones.
MQM-P leader and the claimant in the case Syed Aminul Haque told Geo News over the phone from Karachi that he will instruct his lawyer in London to comply with the court orders.
The former federal law minister said: “We are a rule of law party. We will comply with all court orders. We won unequivocally before the Insolvency and Companies Judge Jones and we will win again. MQM-London is making it as if the case is over. It’s not.
“The UK Court of Appeal has sent the case back to the lower court to look at a few unresolved issues. We are confident we will win there, again. The UK properties belong to MQM-P and we will get these properties for the benefit of the families or our workers and our martyrs.”
After overturning the initial decision, the court order by the three Lord Justices directs that: “The constitutional issue shall be remitted back to the high court for a further hearing, such hearing to take place before a judge other than the Insolvency and Companies Judge Jones; the purpose of the further hearing will be to determine whether the claimant Haque as a representative of MQM-P can prove that amendments made to the April 2016 constitution of MQM on August 31-September 1 in 2016 were constitutional as a result of which he has locus standi to bring the claim.”
The court order states that the further hearing shall proceed on the basis that; as of August 31 2016, the April 2016 constitution was MQM-P constitution; the true effect and extent of Hussain stepping down on August 23, 2016 remains an issue for the further hearing; any findings made by the judge as to the impact or the significance of the events after September 1, 2016 have been overruled by the Court of Appeal; and Mr Haque is a representative of the members of MQM-P and entitled to bring this claim on their behalf.
Last week, three judges of the UK’s Court of Appeal accepted the MQM founder’s appeal against the judgment handed down over a year ago by the Insolvency and Companies Judge Jones — depriving Hussain of six London properties worth around £10 million, in favour of the Pakistani faction of MQM, led by Haque and Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.
Hussain had appealed the single judge’s decision before the Court of Appeal, arguing that the judge failed to take into consideration basic facts of how his party was hijacked by Dr Farooq Sattar and other MQM-P leaders in Karachi who didn’t let Hussain return to the MQM after his August 22, 2016, speech and then his voluntary relinquishing of powers to Sattar and the Central Coordination Committee (CCC).
The ICC Judge Jones had declared that the MQM-P leader and former federal minister Haque was right to bring a claim for the Trust properties; that the real and legitimate MQM was the one based in Pakistan and therefore beneficiary of the six London properties.
The Court of Appeal judges Lord Justice Arnold, Lord Justice Moylan and Lord Justice Nugee have overturned the High Court Judge Jones’ March 13, 2023 ruling that MQM-P is MQM and that Hussain and his supporters do not have a valid defence as trustees to challenge the unconstitutional acts of MQM-P on August 31-September 1, in 2016.
On Thursday, Altaf Hussain addressed a press conference to “celebrate” his win at the Court of Appeal. He praised former accountability minister Shehzad Akbar who said in a tweet that the case against Hussain was started four years ago — when PTI and MQM-P were partners in government under Imran Khan as the prime minister — by the state of Pakistan and MQM-P was only a tool in the hands of the state.
Akbar also named a minister of Khan’s cabinet who played the key part.
Hussain said that that the minister was Barrister Farogh Nasim who “conspired against me and changed the constitution of the MQM”. He thanked Shehzad Akbar for setting the record straight and speaking the truth.
The Court of Appeal has accepted Hussain’s ground that without deciding the constitutionality of MQM-P acts, the High court judge erred in deciding that MQM-P is the real MQM.
The judges also accepted the arguments of Hussain that he did not step back from his role in MQM but was asked by Sattar to temporarily step back until the situation in Pakistan calms down but was later ditched by him and his allies by bringing Article 6 (treason) resolution against Hussain in Sindh and national assemblies.
The court has further stated that without having evidence on the backgrounds of the events unfolding to that announcement, it cannot be said that he stepped down as the party chief of MQM and that the High Court must investigate the claims of violence August 20, 2016 on MQM workers.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced the formation of a commission to conduct a transparent investigation into the Bannu firing incident, which resulted in the deaths of at least four people and injuries to several others. The incident occurred during a protest rally organized by the trader community, who were demonstrating against the deteriorating law and order situation in the Bannu district. The rally, which saw a complete shutter-down strike, aimed to demand action against armed groups operating in the city and its surrounding areas.
The tragic event unfolded when civilians were killed during the firing, leading to chaos and a stampede, which further injured many. In response to the violence, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has taken swift action by initiating the formation of an investigative commission. Adviser on Information Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif emphasized the government’s commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, ensuring that the findings would be made public and legal action taken against those found responsible.
Barrister Saif’s statements highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting the high-security alert in sensitive areas and attributing the incident partly to the area’s sensitive nature. He urged the public to avoid spreading rumors and unverified information, stressing the importance of awaiting the commission’s report for accurate details about the incident.
The formation of the commission is a crucial step in addressing the grievances of the Bannu community and ensuring accountability. The commission’s mandate is to investigate the circumstances leading to the firing, identify the individuals or groups involved, and provide a comprehensive report on the incident. This report is expected to shed light on whether the violence was a result of negligence, deliberate action, or a combination of factors.
The Bannu firing incident underscores the broader issue of law and order in the region. The protest organized by the trader community reflects the local populace’s frustration with ongoing violence and the presence of armed groups. The demand for action against these groups signifies the urgent need for effective law enforcement and security measures to restore peace and stability in the area.
The commission’s investigation will be a test of the KP government’s ability to handle such sensitive and complex issues transparently and impartially. Ensuring that the process is free from political influence and bias is essential to maintain public trust. The commission’s findings will play a crucial role in determining the next steps, including any legal proceedings against those found culpable.
Adviser Barrister Saif’s call for caution amid the ongoing wave of terrorism reflects the heightened security concerns in KP. The province has been a hotspot for terrorist activities, and incidents like the Bannu firing exacerbate the already fragile security situation. The government’s response to such incidents is critical in shaping public perception and confidence in their ability to protect citizens.
In addition to the immediate investigation, the KP government must also address the underlying issues contributing to the law and order problems. This includes enhancing security infrastructure, improving intelligence gathering, and taking decisive action against armed groups. Strengthening community engagement and trust in law enforcement agencies is also vital for long-term stability.
The aftermath of the Bannu incident will likely see increased scrutiny on the KP government’s handling of security and its effectiveness in preventing such tragedies. The commission’s report will be pivotal in providing clarity and ensuring justice for the victims and their families. Transparency and accountability in this process are paramount to rebuilding public trust and demonstrating the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
The KP government’s decision to form a commission to investigate the Bannu firing incident is a significant step towards ensuring accountability and addressing the community’s concerns. The commission’s work will be closely watched as it aims to provide a transparent and impartial report on the incident, identifying those responsible and recommending legal actions. As the region continues to grapple with security challenges, the government’s ability to manage and resolve such issues will be crucial in maintaining peace and stability.
Former President Donald Trump is set to hold his first campaign rally following a recent assassination attempt, signaling his determination to continue his bid for the 2024 presidential election despite the recent threat to his life. This rally is not only a significant moment for Trump but also a critical juncture for his supporters and the political landscape at large.
The assassination attempt has undoubtedly added a new layer of complexity to Trump’s campaign. Details about the incident remain sparse, but the fact that Trump has chosen to proceed with his rally underscores his characteristic defiance and resilience. His decision to maintain a public presence despite security concerns is likely to galvanize his base, reinforcing his image as a leader who remains steadfast under pressure.
This rally will serve as a platform for Trump to address the assassination attempt directly. It offers him an opportunity to portray himself as a victim of political violence, which could resonate strongly with his supporters who already perceive him as a figure fighting against the establishment and various perceived adversaries. By framing the attack as part of a broader struggle, Trump can bolster his narrative of being an outsider challenging entrenched powers.
Security at the rally will undoubtedly be heightened, with increased measures to protect Trump and the attendees. The presence of robust security protocols may also be highlighted by Trump to emphasize the severity of the threat and his resolve to continue his campaign undeterred. This approach can further amplify his message of strength and perseverance.
Politically, this rally will also be a critical test of Trump’s ability to maintain momentum amid adversity. His ability to draw large crowds and generate enthusiasm will be closely watched as an indicator of his ongoing influence within the Republican Party. A strong turnout would signal that his core supporters remain deeply loyal, while a lukewarm response could raise questions about his viability as a candidate.
The rally will also be an important moment for Trump to outline his vision for the country and reinforce his key campaign themes. It provides him with a chance to address pressing issues such as the economy, immigration, and national security, and to offer his critiques of the current administration. By doing so, he can attempt to shift the focus away from the assassination attempt and back to his policy positions and proposed solutions.
For his opponents, both within the Republican Party and from other political affiliations, the rally presents an opportunity to critique Trump’s response to the assassination attempt and his broader campaign strategies. They may argue that his decision to continue with public events amid heightened security risks is reckless, or that it distracts from more substantive political debates. How these critiques are received by the public will be an important factor in shaping the broader political discourse.
Donald Trump’s first campaign rally following an assassination attempt is poised to be a pivotal event. It represents a moment for him to reaffirm his commitment to his presidential bid, galvanize his supporters, and address the attempt on his life. The rally’s turnout and the public’s reaction to his message will be closely scrutinized as indicators of his political strength and the viability of his campaign. As the 2024 election approaches, this event will play a significant role in shaping the narrative around Trump’s candidacy and his ongoing influence in American politics.
As Selena Gomez approaches her 32nd birthday, she reflects on what she considers her “best era.” Gomez, who has evolved from a Disney Channel star to a multifaceted artist, philanthropist, and businesswoman, sees this phase of her life as one of significant growth and fulfillment. This period has been marked by notable achievements in her music and acting careers, as well as personal milestones that have shaped her into a more confident and self-assured individual.
In the music world, Gomez has continued to evolve her sound and artistic vision. Her recent projects, including her critically acclaimed album “Rare” and her Spanish-language EP “Revelación,” have showcased her versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres. These works have not only resonated with fans but have also garnered critical acclaim, solidifying her position as a mature and influential artist in the industry.
On the acting front, Gomez has made significant strides with roles that challenge her and allow her to expand her repertoire. Her performance in the popular Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building” has received praise from both critics and audiences, highlighting her comedic timing and acting prowess. This role, in particular, has been a testament to her ability to take on diverse and complex characters, further establishing her credibility as a serious actress.
Beyond her professional achievements, Gomez has also been candid about her personal journey, including her struggles with mental health and chronic illness. She has used her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and support, sharing her own experiences to help destigmatize these issues and encourage others to seek help. Her transparency and advocacy work have earned her respect and admiration, positioning her as a role model for many.
Additionally, Gomez’s ventures outside of entertainment have also flourished. Her beauty brand, Rare Beauty, has been successful not just commercially but also in promoting positive messages about self-acceptance and inner beauty. Rare Beauty’s commitment to inclusivity and mental health initiatives reflects Gomez’s broader mission to make a positive impact on her community and fans.
As she reflects on this period of her life, Gomez recognizes the significance of the personal and professional growth she has experienced. She credits her support system, including her family, friends, and fans, for their unwavering encouragement and love. This support has been instrumental in helping her navigate the ups and downs of her career and personal life, allowing her to emerge stronger and more resilient.
Looking ahead to her 32nd birthday and beyond, Gomez remains optimistic and excited about the future. She continues to set new goals and challenge herself, driven by a desire to keep evolving and making meaningful contributions to her various fields of work. Whether through music, acting, advocacy, or business, Selena Gomez is determined to continue using her platform to inspire and uplift others.
Selena Gomez’s reflections on her “best era” as her 32nd birthday approaches encapsulate a period of profound personal and professional growth. Her achievements in music, acting, and business, coupled with her advocacy for mental health and inclusivity, have defined this phase of her life. As she looks to the future, Gomez remains committed to pushing boundaries and making a positive impact, embodying the strength and resilience that have become hallmarks of her journey.
In the wake of escalating violence in Bangladesh, Pakistani students have been relocated to secure locations to ensure their safety, according to a statement from the Foreign Office (FO). The protests, which have been driven by discontent over job quotas and high youth unemployment, have resulted in significant unrest and casualties.
The demonstrations, which began in Dhaka and spread across the country, have resulted in the deaths of at least 110 people this week. The protests, the largest since the re-election of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a fourth term, have seen violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. The government has responded by deploying the army to suppress the unrest, with orders to use lethal force if necessary.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the FO assured the safety of Pakistani students in Bangladesh. The FO spokesperson stated that all Pakistani students have been moved to secure locations, including the residence of the Pakistani envoy, the high commission, and other designated safe sites. The Pakistani deputy head of mission has personally visited students in Chitagong to ensure their well-being.
The protests have been fueled by high unemployment rates among young people, who represent a significant portion of the population. The demonstrations have led to widespread violence, with police using tear gas, rubber bullets, and sound grenades to disperse crowds. The government has also imposed a national curfew and suspended internet and text message services to control the situation.
The curfew and military presence in Dhaka have led to a noticeable decline in daily activity, with soldiers setting up roadblocks and patrolling deserted streets. Communication disruptions have further isolated Bangladesh, as internet services remain down and media outlets have been unable to update their platforms.
The FO’s assurance of Pakistani students’ safety comes amid a broader international concern about the violence and its impact on foreign nationals. The steps taken by the Pakistani government reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding its citizens abroad during times of crisis.
As the situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve, the international community is closely monitoring the developments. The focus remains on restoring stability and addressing the underlying issues that have led to the widespread unrest.
As President Joe Biden maintains his commitment to run for re-election in 2024, the Democratic Party is grappling with a complex and challenging situation surrounding the possibility of candidate replacement. Biden’s decision to stay in the race, despite concerns about his age and political viability, has sparked intense debate within the party about the best course of action. At 81, Biden would be the oldest person to assume the presidency if re-elected, raising questions about his physical stamina and ability to handle the demanding responsibilities of a second term.
While Biden’s supporters argue that his extensive experience and record of achievements are significant assets, others within the party are increasingly concerned about the potential drawbacks of his age, prompting discussions about alternative candidates who could better address these concerns and energize the electorate. Among the names being considered are Vice President Kamala Harris, who could be seen as a logical successor given her current role and experience, as well as other prominent Democrats like Governor Gavin Newsom of California, Senator Cory Booker, and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.
Each of these potential candidates offers unique strengths and policy perspectives that could influence the party’s strategy and appeal to different voter demographics. Replacing Biden, however, poses several risks and challenges. It could potentially create divisions within the party, as Biden’s loyal supporters may feel alienated by any attempt to move away from his leadership. Additionally, the choice of a new candidate would necessitate a recalibration of the Democrats’ electoral strategy to ensure broad appeal across various voter groups, including progressives, moderates, and independents.
The party would need to carefully manage this transition to avoid undermining its unity and to present a cohesive vision for the future. Public perception is another critical factor; any significant shift in the candidate lineup could be scrutinized by the media and the public, influencing voter confidence in the party’s stability and competence. Ensuring a smooth transition and effective messaging would be essential to maintaining voter trust and support. As the party deliberates these issues, it must weigh the potential benefits of a new candidate against the risks of disrupting the current campaign and potentially weakening its electoral chances.
Biden’s campaign, meanwhile, is likely to focus on emphasizing his administration’s accomplishments and presenting a compelling case for his continued leadership. The decision-making process within the Democratic Party is thus a balancing act between honoring Biden’s current leadership and addressing the growing calls for change. As the 2024 election approaches, the outcome of these internal discussions will be crucial in shaping the party’s strategy and determining its ability to secure electoral success. The Democratic Party’s ability to navigate this delicate situation effectively will significantly impact its future trajectory and its prospects in the upcoming presidential race.
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly Facebook), recently issued a notable statement praising former President Donald Trump following a serious assassination attempt on his life. The comments were made in a public address and reflected Zuckerberg’s stance on the critical importance of protecting individuals, regardless of political affiliations, and ensuring that democratic processes remain safeguarded against violence.
The assassination attempt on Trump, which occurred in a period of heightened political tension, brought a significant amount of media attention and public discourse. The incident underscored the volatile nature of contemporary political environments and the risks that public figures face. In this context, Zuckerberg’s remarks were seen as an effort to contribute to a broader conversation about political violence and its impact on democratic institutions.
Zuckerberg’s praise of Trump was multifaceted. He commended Trump for his strength and resilience in the face of such a grave threat. This acknowledgment of Trump’s fortitude was intended to underscore the importance of personal safety and mental strength for individuals in high-profile positions. By highlighting Trump’s ability to withstand such a severe challenge, Zuckerberg aimed to convey a message of solidarity and support that transcends political divisions.
In his statement, Zuckerberg also emphasized the broader implications of the incident for democratic discourse. He condemned the use of violence as a means of addressing political disagreements and stressed the necessity for maintaining a civil and respectful dialogue. According to Zuckerberg, the preservation of democratic values relies heavily on protecting individuals from violence and ensuring that political debates remain grounded in reasoned argument rather than aggression.
Zuckerberg’s comments also touched on the role of social media platforms in shaping political discourse. Given Meta’s influential position in the digital landscape, Zuckerberg’s statement served as a reminder of the company’s commitment to fostering a safe online environment. This includes combating hate speech, misinformation, and other forms of digital violence that could exacerbate real-world conflicts. Zuckerberg reiterated Meta’s dedication to upholding these standards and ensuring that the platform remains a space for constructive and respectful engagement.
The praise for Trump was met with a mixed reception. Supporters of Trump viewed Zuckerberg’s comments as a commendable act of solidarity, reflecting a recognition of the former president’s ordeal and his ongoing role in American political life. They appreciated the gesture as a sign of respect for Trump’s resilience and a reinforcement of the principle that no individual should be subjected to violence based on their political position.
On the other hand, critics argued that Zuckerberg’s praise could be interpreted as politically motivated or as an attempt to align Meta with Trump’s political narrative. Some detractors expressed concern that by focusing on Trump’s personal experience, Zuckerberg might be overshadowing broader systemic issues related to political violence and the challenges facing democratic institutions. They suggested that a more comprehensive approach to addressing these issues would involve not only supporting individual figures but also actively promoting reforms to reduce political violence and enhance the security of all public figures.
Zuckerberg’s remarks were also situated within a broader context of ongoing debates about the role of social media in politics. The incident brought renewed scrutiny to the ways in which digital platforms influence political events and public perceptions. Critics have long argued that social media can amplify extreme viewpoints and contribute to political polarization. In this light, Zuckerberg’s statement was seen as part of a larger effort to navigate these complex dynamics and promote a safer, more constructive online environment.
Mark Zuckerberg’s praise of Donald Trump following the assassination attempt was a significant public statement reflecting his views on personal resilience, the importance of democratic discourse, and the role of social media in political life. While the comments were intended to show solidarity and support, they also sparked a broader discussion about the intersection of politics, violence, and digital media. The response to Zuckerberg’s statement highlighted the ongoing debates about how best to address political violence and protect democratic values in an increasingly polarized world.
Former President Donald Trump’s recent pledge to end the war in Ukraine quickly if re-elected in the 2024 presidential election has generated significant attention and debate. Trump’s assertion that he could resolve the conflict before even taking office underscores his belief in his unique negotiating abilities and experience in international affairs. However, this bold promise raises several questions regarding its feasibility and the implications for U.S. foreign policy and international relations.
Trump’s confidence in his ability to swiftly end the war stems from his self-proclaimed prowess in negotiation and his previous experience as a businessman and president. During his first term, he emphasized a more unilateral approach to foreign policy, often challenging traditional alliances and agreements. His administration’s approach to international conflicts included direct negotiations and a preference for personal diplomacy, which he argues could be instrumental in resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The war in Ukraine, which began in 2014 and escalated significantly in 2022 with Russia’s full-scale invasion, has been a complex and multifaceted conflict involving not just the direct military engagements between Russia and Ukraine, but also intricate international dynamics. The conflict has drawn in numerous global actors, including the United States, NATO members, and various European nations, all of whom have played roles in providing support to Ukraine and imposing sanctions on Russia.
Trump’s promise to end the war swiftly is met with skepticism by many analysts and observers. The main concerns revolve around the practical aspects of such a claim. Ending a war of this magnitude typically involves extensive negotiations, compromises, and often, involvement from multiple stakeholders. The specifics of how Trump plans to achieve this remain unclear. His previous approach to foreign policy, characterized by a combination of unpredictability and a tendency to bypass traditional diplomatic channels, raises questions about whether his methods would be effective or even feasible in the context of the Ukraine conflict.
The proposed approach suggests a potential return to Trump’s “America First” doctrine, which prioritizes U.S. interests and often advocates for a reduction in American involvement in overseas conflicts. This could mean negotiating directly with Russia and possibly pressing for a ceasefire or peace agreement without extensive involvement from other international partners. However, such a strategy might also risk alienating allies who have been actively supporting Ukraine and working to counter Russian aggression.
Critics argue that Trump’s approach could undermine the ongoing international efforts to support Ukraine and weaken the collective response against Russian aggression. The current U.S. administration, under President Joe Biden, has emphasized a coalition-based approach, working closely with European allies and NATO to provide military and economic aid to Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia. A shift to a more unilateral approach might disrupt these alliances and the coordinated strategy that has been established to address the conflict.
Furthermore, the complexities of the Ukraine conflict involve not only military considerations but also deep-rooted political, historical, and cultural factors. A resolution would likely require addressing issues such as territorial disputes, security arrangements, and the broader geopolitical implications of any settlement. Trump’s ability to navigate these complexities with a rapid resolution remains a contentious topic.
Supporters of Trump argue that his unconventional approach could break the current diplomatic deadlock and bring a fresh perspective to the negotiations. They believe that his track record of renegotiating international agreements and his willingness to challenge the status quo could lead to a breakthrough in the peace process. On the other hand, detractors caution that his previous tenure was marked by unpredictability and a tendency to prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability.
While Donald Trump’s promise to end the war in Ukraine quickly if re-elected is a bold and ambitious declaration, it remains uncertain how such a goal would be practically achieved. The complexities of the conflict and the current international landscape present significant challenges. The feasibility of his promise will likely be a topic of ongoing debate as the 2024 election approaches, with implications for both U.S. foreign policy and global stability.
K-Electric, the primary electricity provider in Karachi, Pakistan, has approached the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) with a request to raise the power tariff by Rs5.45 per unit. This request falls under the Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA) mechanism, which allows electricity prices to be adjusted in response to changes in fuel costs.
The FCA is a standard regulatory process in many countries, designed to ensure that utility companies can cover the fluctuating costs of fuel used in electricity generation. In Pakistan, this mechanism is crucial due to the country’s heavy reliance on imported fuel, which is subject to global price volatility. The rising international fuel prices have significantly impacted K-Electric’s operational costs, prompting this request for a tariff hike.
K-Electric’s application to NEPRA highlights the increased costs of fuel over the recent period. The company argues that without an adjustment in the tariff, it will face substantial financial strain, potentially affecting its ability to maintain and upgrade its infrastructure. This, in turn, could lead to more frequent power outages and a decline in service quality, which would adversely affect consumers.
The proposed increase of Rs5.45 per unit represents a significant rise in electricity costs for consumers. For households and businesses already grappling with economic challenges, this could exacerbate financial pressures. The impact would be felt across various sectors, including manufacturing, services, and residential areas, potentially leading to higher operational costs for businesses and increased living expenses for individuals.
NEPRA’s role in this process is to thoroughly review K-Electric’s request, considering various factors such as the justification for the cost increases, the company’s financial health, and the potential impact on consumers. The regulatory body will hold public hearings and solicit feedback from stakeholders before making a decision. This process is intended to ensure transparency and fairness, balancing the need for K-Electric to recover its costs with the need to protect consumers from undue financial burden.
In recent years, K-Electric has faced criticism for its service quality, including frequent power outages and inadequate infrastructure investment. The proposed tariff hike is likely to reignite these concerns among consumers and advocacy groups. Critics argue that K-Electric should focus on improving its operational efficiency and reducing losses rather than passing increased costs onto consumers.
However, K-Electric maintains that the tariff increase is essential for maintaining reliable service. The company points out that it has made significant investments in infrastructure and technology to enhance service delivery, and these investments require substantial financial resources. Without adequate revenue from tariffs, K-Electric warns that it may struggle to sustain these improvements and meet the growing demand for electricity in Karachi.
The broader economic context in Pakistan also plays a role in this situation. The country has been facing economic challenges, including inflation and a depreciating currency, which have contributed to rising costs across various sectors. The energy sector is particularly vulnerable due to its reliance on imported fuel and equipment. As a result, regulatory decisions regarding tariff adjustments have far-reaching implications for economic stability and growth.
K-Electric’s request for a Rs5.45 per unit increase in the power tariff under the Fuel Cost Adjustment mechanism is a critical issue with significant implications for both the company and consumers. While the adjustment is aimed at addressing rising fuel costs and ensuring the sustainability of electricity supply, it also raises concerns about affordability and service quality. NEPRA’s decision will need to carefully balance these competing interests to achieve a fair and equitable outcome.
Boeing’s 777X, the latest iteration in its line of long-haul aircraft, represents a monumental leap in aviation technology. This aircraft is designed to set new standards in efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort, solidifying Boeing’s position in the competitive market for wide-body jets.
The 777X comes in two variants: the 777-8 and the 777-9. The 777-9, which is the larger of the two, boasts a capacity of up to 426 passengers in a two-class configuration and a range of 7,285 nautical miles. The 777-8, slightly smaller, can carry up to 384 passengers with a range of 8,730 nautical miles. These specifications make the 777X suitable for ultra-long-haul routes, enabling airlines to connect more distant city pairs directly.
A key feature of the 777X is its new GE9X engines, produced by General Electric. These engines are the largest and most powerful commercial jet engines ever built, offering significant improvements in fuel efficiency compared to their predecessors. The GE9X engines are designed to burn less fuel, produce fewer emissions, and reduce noise, aligning with the industry’s goals of minimizing environmental impact.
Another innovative aspect of the 777X is its composite wings, which are longer and more flexible than those on previous models. The wings incorporate folding wingtips, a first for commercial aviation. This feature allows the aircraft to have a longer wingspan in flight, improving aerodynamic efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. On the ground, the wingtips can be folded up to allow the 777X to fit into the same airport gates and taxiways as the current 777 models, enhancing airport compatibility.
The cabin design of the 777X has also been significantly upgraded to enhance passenger experience. The fuselage is wider, providing more spacious seating arrangements. Larger windows, higher ceilings, improved lighting, and advanced air filtration systems contribute to a more comfortable and pleasant environment. The 777X also features a new architecture that allows airlines to customize the cabin layout to better meet their specific needs and the preferences of their passengers.
Despite its promising advancements, the development of the 777X has not been without challenges. The program has faced delays due to various factors, including issues related to the GE9X engines, difficulties in achieving regulatory certification, and the broader impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the aviation industry. Boeing has worked closely with regulators to address safety concerns and ensure the aircraft meets all necessary standards.
The introduction of the 777X is expected to have a substantial impact on the market for wide-body jets. Its combination of capacity, range, and efficiency positions it as a strong competitor against Airbus’s A350. Airlines that operate the 777X will benefit from its lower operating costs and the ability to serve a broader range of routes without compromising on passenger comfort.
The 777X’s launch customer, Emirates, along with other major airlines such as Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines, have placed significant orders for the aircraft, reflecting confidence in its potential to transform long-haul air travel. As these airlines begin to incorporate the 777X into their fleets, passengers can look forward to experiencing the next generation of aviation technology.
The Boeing 777X represents a significant advancement in the aviation industry, combining innovative engineering, improved efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort. Despite the hurdles faced during its development, the 777X is poised to set new benchmarks in the world of commercial aviation, offering airlines a highly capable and versatile aircraft for the future of long-haul travel.
Bangladesh recently declared a two-day public holiday and imposed a curfew in response to escalating protests that have turned deadly. The unrest began over a series of contentious political issues, including demands for electoral reforms and allegations of government corruption. Protests quickly spread across major cities, leading to violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Reports indicate several casualties and numerous injuries as authorities struggled to restore order.
In an effort to de-escalate the situation, the government announced the public holiday, hoping to reduce tensions by keeping people indoors and minimizing the potential for further confrontations. The curfew was implemented to restrict movement and prevent gatherings that could lead to more violence. Security forces, including police and military units, were deployed to enforce the curfew and ensure public safety.
The government also called for calm and urged citizens to refrain from participating in protests, emphasizing the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution of grievances. Opposition leaders, however, criticized the government’s response, arguing that the imposition of a curfew and public holiday was an attempt to stifle dissent and avoid addressing legitimate concerns.
International reactions have been mixed, with some nations expressing concern over the use of force against protesters and urging the Bangladeshi government to uphold human rights. Humanitarian organizations have called for an investigation into the violence and accountability for those responsible.
The two-day public holiday provided an opportunity for authorities to engage in discussions with protest leaders and seek a peaceful resolution. Efforts were made to address some of the protesters’ demands, including promises of electoral reforms and measures to combat corruption. However, the underlying political tensions remain unresolved, and it is unclear whether these measures will be sufficient to prevent further unrest.
The situation in Bangladesh underscores the challenges faced by the government in balancing security and democratic freedoms. The curfew and public holiday may offer a temporary reprieve, but long-term stability will depend on the government’s willingness to engage with opposition groups and address the root causes of discontent. As the country navigates this period of turmoil, the international community will be closely watching developments and assessing the implications for regional stability and human rights.
In the aftermath of the protests, there have been calls for greater transparency and accountability in government actions. Civil society organizations and activists are advocating for reforms to ensure that citizens’ rights to free expression and assembly are protected. The government’s response to these calls will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of Bangladesh’s political landscape.
The declaration of a public holiday and the imposition of a curfew highlight the serious nature of the unrest in Bangladesh. While these measures may help to restore order in the short term, sustainable peace will require comprehensive political reforms and genuine efforts to address the grievances of the populace.
Microsoft experienced a significant IT outage that disrupted a wide range of services globally. The incident impacted key services such as Microsoft 365, Power BI, Microsoft Teams, and the Microsoft 365 admin center. Users reported being unable to access these services, which affected businesses, financial institutions, airlines, and more.
The outage was traced back to a software glitch involving CrowdStrike’s Falcon Sensor, a cybersecurity tool that caused systems to fail, leading to widespread disruptions. This incident not only affected Microsoft’s cloud services but also led to operational halts in various sectors, including transportation and broadcasting.
Microsoft quickly acknowledged the issue and provided updates through their service health status page, while their engineers worked on restoring normal operations. The recovery process involved close coordination with affected enterprises to mitigate the impact and restore service functionality.
This outage highlighted vulnerabilities in integrated cybersecurity solutions and the potential widespread effects of technical failures in interconnected systems. The event underscored the importance of robust contingency planning and cross-sector collaboration in managing such crises. As services were gradually restored, Microsoft continued to monitor and provide support to affected users, emphasizing transparency in communication throughout the recovery period.
The Apollo 11 mission, which culminated in the historic moon landing on July 20, 1969, included the iconic moment of planting the American flag on the lunar surface. The successful flag hoisting was the result of meticulous planning and engineering by NASA, overcoming the unique challenges presented by the moon’s environment.
One of the primary challenges was the lack of atmosphere on the moon, which means there is no wind to unfurl a flag. To address this, NASA designed a special flagpole with a horizontal crossbar that could extend from the top of the pole. This ensured that the flag would be displayed as if it were flying, despite the vacuum of space. The flag itself was made from nylon, chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the harsh conditions of space.
The flag assembly was stored in a thin, rectangular aluminum tube on the Lunar Module, just outside the ladder on the descent stage. It was Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s task to deploy the flag during their historic moonwalk. Upon landing, Armstrong and Aldrin removed the flag assembly from its storage and began the process of setting it up.
The flagpole consisted of two sections: the vertical pole and the horizontal crossbar. The vertical pole was telescoping, designed to collapse for storage and extend for deployment. Armstrong and Aldrin first drove the vertical pole into the lunar surface. This proved more challenging than anticipated, as the lunar soil, known as regolith, was not as penetrable as expected. It required considerable effort to push the pole into the ground to a sufficient depth to ensure stability.
Once the vertical pole was secured, Armstrong and Aldrin extended the horizontal crossbar, which was hinged at the top of the vertical pole. This crossbar was pulled out to its full length and then locked into place. The flag was attached to the crossbar and hung down naturally. Despite the lack of wind, the presence of the crossbar gave the appearance that the flag was waving.
The astronauts faced some difficulty in getting the flag to stand straight and remain upright. Given the uneven and rocky surface of the moon, achieving the perfect angle required patience and precision. After several adjustments, Armstrong and Aldrin managed to position the flag satisfactorily. The resulting image of the flag standing proudly on the lunar surface, with Earth visible in the background, became one of the most enduring symbols of human achievement.
In addition to the physical setup, the flag’s placement was carefully considered. It was positioned to be visible in the numerous photographs and television broadcasts that were planned, ensuring that the moment was captured for posterity. The flag-raising was a powerful gesture, symbolizing not only the success of the Apollo 11 mission but also the culmination of years of effort and the collective achievement of thousands of people involved in the space program.
This seemingly simple act of planting a flag required overcoming significant technical and environmental challenges, reflecting the ingenuity and determination that characterized the entire Apollo program. The flag on the moon remains a testament to human exploration and the spirit of discovery that continues to drive space exploration today.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday strongly condemned the dastardly terrorist attack on a mosque in the Wadi Kabir district of Muscat on July 16 and offered Pakistan’s support to Oman in the elimination of terrorism in all of its forms.
The ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman, Fahad Sulaiman Khalaf Al Kharusi, paid a courtesy call on PM Shehbaz earlier today.
The premier appreciated Oman’s swift response and cooperation with the Pakistan mission in the repatriation of the bodies of the deceased and treatment of the injured.
The attack claimed the lives of six people, including four Pakistani nationals, and left over 30 injured, nearly all of whom were Pakistanis.
PM Shehbaz said Pakistan had itself been the victim of terrorism for the past several decades.
During the meeting, the prime minister conveyed his best wishes for Sultan Haitham bin Tariq while recalling his telephonic conversations with the Sultan on Eidul Adha and Eidul Fitr earlier in the year.
The premier also reiterated his invitation to the Sultan of Oman for an official visit to Pakistan at his earliest convenience.
On the bilateral front, PM Shehbaz stressed, saying: “Pakistan and Oman enjoy close, brotherly ties with a shared history, faith and culture.”
He expressed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries, particularly in trade, investment, energy, and defence.
In this regard, the premier thanked the ambassador for encouraging a trade and investment delegation that will visit Pakistan next week. He assured the visiting dignitary that the relevant Pakistani authorities would extend full cooperation to the delegation while seeking mutually beneficial outcomes.
The Omani envoy thanked the prime minister for receiving him and conveyed to him the greetings of the Sultan of Oman. He reaffirmed his country’s desire to further enhance its trade and investment relations with Pakistan.
While the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has agreed to stand by the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) over issues related to the Pakistan Tehree-e-Insaf (PTI), the legal team of the Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari-led party expressed reservations over repercussions of these decisions in coming days.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held consultations at the President’s House on Friday with allied parties including the PPP over issues including the Supreme Court’s 8-5 verdict on reserved seats, sources said, adding that the ruling party seeks to take the allies into confidence over its plan to ban the PTI that invited criticism from numerous political figures.
The PPP lent its complete support to the PML-N’s review petition in the apex court over the order of the reserved seats, the sources in the PPP said. “However, the party held back from the issue of banning the PTI.”
The two key political allies have agreed to discuss the issue of imposing the ban on the PTI on the party level first and then produce the matter before parliament later on, the sources added..
The PML-N’s legal team took the PPP leaders into confidence over its decisions regarding the Imran Khan-founded party in a meeting that lasted for one-and-a-half hours.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Awan briefed the meeting about the legalities of the government’s plan to ban the PTI, the insiders further said.
However, they said, members of the PPP’s legal team voiced their concerns regarding the future impacts of these decisions.
But, the two parties agreed to make all decisions about the PTI with unanimity, the sources said, adding that the coalition partners also agreed to continue negotiations in the future as well.
The development comes a week after the top court ruled that the PTI was eligible for the allocation of reserved seats for women and minorities.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah of the SC’s full bench announced the 8-5 majority verdict, nullifying the Peshawar High Court’s (PHC) order wherein it had upheld the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) decision denying the reserved seats to the SIC.
Following the verdict, the PML-N on Monday filed a review petition in the Supreme Court against its verdict. It nominated 11 respondents in the plea including the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and its chairman Hamid Raza, praying the court to suspend its ruling dated July 12, 2024, on the reserved seats.
The review petition asked a number of questions including whether the SIC should be granted the reserved seats.
It questioned if reserved seats could be granted to a political party that had not submitted a party list within the prescribed time, whether a political party can be given reserved seats whose candidates have not even filed nomination papers within the time provided by the election watchdog and if independents could even join a political party which did not win a single general seat in parliament.
The plea also raised the question if the seats could be left vacant or have to be distributed among the political parties contesting for the said seats.
