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Newsdesk

UN Security Council deadly terrorist strikes in Balochistan

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UN Security Council

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks in various areas of Balochistan, describing them as “heinous and cowardly acts of terrorism.”

In an official statement, the UNSC said the attacks carried out across Balochistan on January 31, 2026, were completely unacceptable.

The Council expressed its deepest condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, the Governor of Balochistan, and the people of Pakistan, while also wishing a swift and full recovery to those injured.

The statement reiterated that terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, remains one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. The Security Council stressed that those responsible for the attacks — including the perpetrators, planners, financiers, and sponsors — must be brought to justice.

The UNSC urged all countries to cooperate fully with Pakistan, in accordance with international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to ensure effective action against terrorism. It emphasized once again that terrorism cannot and should not be justified under any circumstances or for any reason.

The Council further stated that all states must fulfill their obligations under the United Nations Charter, international human rights law, refugee law, and international humanitarian law while taking measures to combat terrorism.

Meanwhile, security sources reported that the number of terrorists killed during ongoing clearance and search operations in Balochistan has risen to 197. Operations against militants are continuing in Nushki district and other parts of the province. These actions were launched following coordinated terrorist attacks carried out across the province over the weekend.

Earlier, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian also strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Balochistan, reaffirming China’s unwavering support for Pakistan in its fight against terrorism. He expressed condolences for those who lost their lives and sympathy for the injured and affected families.

Tobacco, diet, and pollution linked to 40% of preventable cancer cases: WHO

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Tobacco

According to a study released by the World Health Organization (WHO) on the occasion of World Cancer Day, nearly 40 percent of cancer cases worldwide could be prevented by avoiding known risk factors that contribute to the disease.

The research highlights that behaviors and exposures such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, air pollution, and certain infections account for a significant portion of cancer risk. In 2022 alone, the study estimates that 37 percent—or roughly 7.1 million—new cancer cases could have been prevented.

Key Risk Factors and Preventable Cancers

The WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) analyzed 30 factors that increase cancer risk. Findings include:

Tobacco use is linked to 15 percent of all cancer cases.

Other major contributors include infectious agents (10 percent) and alcohol consumption (3 percent).

Additional risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, ultraviolet (UV) exposure from sunlight, and air pollution.

The study emphasizes that cancers with the highest potential for prevention—nearly 50 percent of cases—include lung, stomach, and cervical cancers. Lung cancer is primarily associated with tobacco use and air pollution, stomach cancer is linked to Helicobacter pylori infection, and cervical cancer is mostly caused by HPV, against which vaccines are effective.

Gender Differences in Preventable Cancer Cases

The research indicates that men have a higher proportion of preventable cancer cases compared to women—45 percent versus 30 percent. Among these, about one-quarter of preventable cancers in men are due to tobacco, compared with 11 percent in women.

WHO experts called on governments worldwide to implement strict tobacco control measures, ensure access to vaccines for preventable infections such as HPV, improve air quality, promote healthy diets, and encourage physical activity.

The study concludes that reducing the global cancer burden requires addressing other non-communicable disease risk factors as well, including tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed foods, and environmental pollutants.

This research represents the first global analysis demonstrating that a significant portion of cancer cases could be avoided through targeted prevention strategies.

SHC forms judicial commission to probe Gul Plaza tragedy

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SHC

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has constituted a judicial commission to investigate the deadly fire incident at Gul Plaza, a well-known shopping center located on M.A. Jinnah Road, Karachi.

The tragic incident occurred on January 17, 2026, when a massive fire broke out at Gul Plaza, claiming the lives of more than 70 people. Following the incident, the Sindh government wrote a letter to the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court on January 29, requesting a judicial inquiry into the matter. The SHC has now responded to that request.

Based on the Sindh Tribunals of Inquiry Ordinance 1969 and the Terms of Reference submitted by the Sindh government, the Sindh High Court has formed a single-member judicial commission headed by Justice Agha Faisal. The commission will investigate the fire incident and determine its causes and responsibility.

The duration of the commission and other procedural details will be formally notified by the Sindh government.

According to a letter issued by the Registrar’s Office of the Sindh High Court, all relevant records and documents related to the incident are to be presented before Justice Agha Faisal. The Sindh Home Department has also been informed in this regard.

The Gul Plaza fire remains one of the deadliest fire incidents in Karachi’s recent history, raising serious concerns over building safety and fire prevention measures.

High-Level Visit: Pakistan signs multiple agreements with Kazakhstan

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High-Level Visit

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly received Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the Prime Minister’s House, marking the beginning of a high-level visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation.

Upon arrival, President Tokayev was presented with a guard of honor, and the national anthems of both countries were played.

Prime Minister Sharif introduced members of his federal cabinet to the Kazakh president, who in turn introduced his delegation.

A formal reception was held in honor of the Kazakh president, attended by senior officials and diplomatic delegations from both countries.

During a detailed meeting following the reception, Prime Minister Sharif and President Tokayev discussed matters concerning bilateral relations, regional security, and cooperation in multiple sectors. Both leaders emphasized strengthening ties between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.

Signing of MOUs and Agreements

The visit included the signing of 19 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and agreements aimed at expanding cooperation. The leaders also signed a joint communiqué, described as a major step forward in bilateral relations.

Key areas covered by the agreements include:

Cooperation in UN peacekeeping operations

Partnerships in mining and petroleum sectors

Prisoner exchange programs

Maritime sector collaboration

Transit trade agreements and customs cooperation

Partnerships in Pakistan Railways

Climate change initiatives

Collaboration in virtual assets, AI, and digital development

Protection and veterinary sector cooperation

Officials highlighted that these agreements will facilitate future technological cooperation and digital partnerships between the two countries.

The signing ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal.

This visit and the accompanying agreements underscore a strengthened Pakistan-Kazakhstan partnership across economic, technological, and strategic domains.

US weapons left in Afghanistan being used in terror attacks in Pakistan

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US weapons

According to a report by U.S. broadcaster CNN, weapons left behind by American forces in Afghanistan are now being used by terrorists in Pakistan, posing a significant obstacle to counterterrorism operations.

The report highlights that militant groups, including the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), are reportedly using U.S.-made rifles, machine guns, and sniper rifles in their attacks.

The availability of these weapons has reportedly increased both the scale and intensity of terrorist assaults in the region.

John Sopko, head of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), stated that approximately 300,000 U.S. weapons were left in Afghanistan during the withdrawal. These arms have since been used in attacks in Pakistan’s South Waziristan and Balochistan regions.

The Pakistani government has repeatedly provided evidence to both the Afghan authorities and the international community, showing that Afghan territory is being used to launch attacks against Pakistan and that terrorists, particularly the TTP, are using modern U.S.-supplied weapons in these operations.

The CNN report underscores the growing security challenge posed by the proliferation of abandoned U.S. arms in the region, which have empowered terrorist groups and complicated counterterrorism efforts.

Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael’ trailer sparks buzz ahead of release

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Michael Jackson

The first trailer of Michael, the highly anticipated biopic based on the life of American music legend Michael Jackson, has been released, quickly becoming a major topic of discussion across social media and film circles.

Following the trailer’s release, fans have reacted enthusiastically, expressing confidence that the biopic will portray the Pop King’s career in a powerful and compelling manner. The film is scheduled to hit cinemas on April 14.

According to the filmmakers, the project brings together different phases of Michael Jackson’s life, highlighting his musical journey, rise to global fame, and the professional challenges he faced along the way.

The biopic deliberately avoids making long-standing controversies and allegations the central focus, instead emphasizing his artistic struggle, achievements, and the highs and lows of his career.

Michael Jackson is portrayed by his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, marking his debut in a major feature film.

 In the trailer, Jaafar is seen capturing Jackson’s iconic walk, speech, singing style, and the legendary moonwalk. His vocal tone and precise dance moves have impressed many viewers, though some fans feel makeup and visual styling could have been enhanced to achieve an even closer resemblance.

Several scenes show a young Michael Jackson singing under a producer’s guidance, while brief yet striking moments highlight his signature dance moves and electrifying stage presence.

Despite its short duration, the trailer has successfully heightened anticipation, with fans now eagerly awaiting the film’s release in April.

PSL sets new record with 149% surge in international media rights value

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PSL sets new record

LAHORE: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has created fresh history after witnessing a landmark surge in the value of its international media rights, recording a massive 149 percent increase compared to last year.

A Pakistani company has acquired the international media rights for the HBL Pakistan Super League at a record-breaking price, setting a new benchmark for the league’s commercial growth.

The winning bid surpassed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) reserve price, underlining the tournament’s rising global appeal.

The sharp increase in valuation highlights the PSL’s expanding popularity and strengthening brand value on the international stage.

PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer said the league is steadily cementing its position among the world’s leading T20 competitions.

He added that the significant jump in international media rights reflects strong global confidence in the HBL PSL, driven by competitive, high-quality cricket that continues to attract fans worldwide.

Salman Naseer further noted that the new agreement boosts confidence in the league’s long-term business growth and positions the PSL for even greater international recognition in the years ahead.

Spain to ban social media use for children under 16

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Spain to ban

Madrid: Spain has decided to impose a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16 as part of stricter measures to protect minors online.

According to international media reports, the Spanish government is introducing tough new regulations that will require social media platforms to implement mandatory age-verification systems.

The Spanish Prime Minister said the new measures aim to safeguard children from the risks associated with social media, including harmful content and negative impacts on mental health.

He also urged other European countries to adopt similar policies to ensure the protection of minors across the region.

The Prime Minister revealed that Spain has joined the “Coalition for Digital Wellbeing” alongside five other countries to better coordinate cross-border digital regulations.

Australia became the first country to impose a nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16 in December.

Following this move, several other countries have begun taking steps to introduce age-based restrictions on social media platforms.

Spain is also preparing to table a bill that will hold social media executives accountable for illegal content, criminalize algorithmic manipulation, and mandate robust age-verification mechanisms across digital platforms.

Meanwhile, Greece is expected to announce a ban on social media use for children under 15 in the near future. Senior government sources told Reuters on Tuesday that Greece is “very close” to making the announcement.

Globally, growing concerns over children’s mental health and rising negative online trends have prompted governments to introduce restrictions, reforms, and stricter legal frameworks for social media regulation.

France

In France, the lower house of parliament has overwhelmingly approved a bill banning social media use for children under 15. However, the legislation still requires approval from the Senate before it can be enforced.

According to Reuters, the move is aimed at protecting children from online harassment, psychological stress, and increasing mental health risks. The bill was passed with 116 votes in favor and 23 against. It will now be debated in the Senate before returning to the lower house for final approval.

The bill states that excessive social media use among minors has led to an alarming rise in mental health issues, making regulatory intervention unavoidable. It also proposes extending the existing ban on smartphone use in middle schools to high schools.

United Arab Emirates

In the United Arab Emirates, a new Child Digital Safety Law has been implemented to ensure safer online environments for children.

According to Gulf News, the law prohibits the use of personal data of children under 13 without explicit, written, and verifiable parental consent.

The legislation also requires social media platforms to provide parents with an easy and immediate option to withdraw consent at any time, without the need to provide justification.

Nipah-like virus detected, experts warn of silent human transmission

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Nipah-like virus

Islamabad: Scientists have identified a new bat-borne virus resembling the deadly Nipah virus, raising concerns that it may already be spreading silently among humans without being detected.

According to details, the virus was discovered in patients who initially showed symptoms similar to Nipah virus infection but later tested negative for Nipah. Researchers fear that the newly identified virus may have been circulating undiagnosed in humans.

Nipah virus is considered one of the most dangerous zoonotic diseases, known to cause severe brain inflammation, with a fatality rate of up to 75 percent.

Experts from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health have named the newly discovered pathogen Pteropine Orthoreovirus (PRV). Clinically, its symptoms closely resemble those of Nipah virus, including severe respiratory and neurological complications.

Researchers believe the virus may have gone undetected for a long time due to similarities with Nipah virus symptoms and limited diagnostic surveillance.

The virus was identified in five patients in Bangladesh whose throat swab samples tested negative for Nipah virus. All patients had recently consumed raw date palm sap, which is widely known as a transmission source for bat-borne viruses such as Nipah, rabies, and Marburg.

Patients developed severe respiratory and neurological symptoms. In some cases, fatigue, breathing difficulties, and problems with mobility persisted for months after the initial illness. One patient later died, although it could not be conclusively determined whether PRV was the direct cause of death.

In a study published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, researchers advised healthcare professionals to consider PRV infection in patients presenting with Nipah-like symptoms.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Nishesh Mishra, said the discovery highlights that consumption of raw date palm sap can facilitate the spread of dangerous viruses beyond Nipah, underscoring the urgent need for expanded surveillance systems.

Meanwhile, UK health authorities have confirmed that they are closely monitoring the recent Nipah virus outbreak in India’s West Bengal state, where testing of nearly 200 individuals is currently underway.

US shoots down Iranian drone near aircraft carrier in Arabian Sea

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US shoots down

Washington: The United States military has shot down an Iranian drone that was approaching a US aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea, according to foreign news agencies.

Reports said a US F-35 fighter jet intercepted and destroyed the drone as it moved toward the aircraft carrier. A US official, quoted by the news agency, confirmed that the Iranian drone was heading in the direction of the USS Abraham Lincoln when it was neutralized.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) also confirmed the incident, stating that a US F-35C fighter aircraft carried out a defensive action and shot down an Iranian Shahed-139 drone.

CENTCOM said the drone was downed to ensure the safety and security of the aircraft carrier and its onboard crew. No US personnel or military equipment were harmed during the incident.

The development comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where US naval forces remain on high alert to counter potential threats in international waters.