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Newsdesk

Karachi reports third monkeypox case

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Karachi reports

KARACHI: Health authorities have confirmed a third case of monkeypox in Karachi within three days, bringing the city’s total number of confirmed cases to 11.

According to officials, a 26-year-old resident of the Defence Housing Authority area tested positive for the viral infection and has been admitted to the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital in NIPA for treatment and isolation.

Health authorities said surveillance and monitoring efforts have been intensified following the recent increase in cases across the city.

Meanwhile, official data showed that measles continues to pose a major public health challenge across Pakistan, with 96 child deaths reported between January and May this year.

Sindh recorded the highest number of fatalities at 53, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 24 deaths, Punjab with 15 and Balochistan with four.

Authorities reported approximately 28,500 suspected measles cases during the first five months of the year, of which 7,500 were laboratory-confirmed.

Despite substantial public health spending, immunisation coverage in Sindh remains below desired levels, raising concerns about the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns and disease prevention efforts.

UK to ban social media access for under-16s, Prime Minister announces

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UK to ban

London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the government will impose a nationwide ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, calling it a necessary step to protect young people.

Starmer said the move would apply to all under-16s and described a full restriction on social media use for minors as the “right decision” for their wellbeing and development.

The government had launched consultations last month aimed at limiting children’s exposure to social media platforms and related digital devices, with a focus on reducing screen time.

Officials said the policy is intended to shift children’s attention away from mobile phones and laptops and encourage a greater focus on education, physical health, and overall wellbeing.

On the other hand, Social media platform Snapchat has introduced new restrictions for its younger users, barring children aged 13 to 15 from publicly sharing videos on its Spotlight feature.

The platform’s parent company, Snap Inc., said the move is aimed at strengthening online privacy and safety protections for minors.

Under the new policy, videos uploaded by users in this age group will no longer appear on the public Spotlight feed, which functions similarly to TikTok and Instagram Reels.

However, affected users will still be able to share content privately with friends, the company clarified.

Snap Inc. said the decision is intended to reduce risks of online harassment and misuse of personal content while ensuring a safer digital environment for younger users.

Details of 14-point Iran–US draft agreement emerge

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Details of 14-point

Iran: Details of a 14-point draft framework between Iran and the United States have surfaced, outlining major political, economic and security-related provisions, according to Iranian media reports.

Under the draft, a US naval blockade would be lifted within 30 days, while restrictions on Iran’s oil and petrochemical exports would be suspended.

The proposed framework also includes an immediate and permanent ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon and other regional theatres.

According to the draft, the United States and its allies would be required to provide at least $300 billion for Iran’s reconstruction. The document reportedly excludes Iran’s missile programme and support for allied groups from the final agreement.

It further states that $24 billion of frozen Iranian assets would be released during negotiations, while $12 billion would be unblocked prior to formal talks.

The draft also suggests that the final Iran–US agreement would be endorsed through a United Nations Security Council resolution.

Iran says US deal to include frozen assets return and war damages compensation

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Iran says

Ismail Baghaei: Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson has said that a proposed agreement with the United States will include the return of frozen Iranian assets as well as compensation for damages from military actions involving the United States and Israel.

In a press briefing, Baghaei said a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States is expected to be signed on Friday in Geneva. He added that Iranian delegations will visit several regional and neighbouring countries ahead of the signing.

He said Iran’s public and armed forces showed “unprecedented resilience” during a 110-day conflict, and vowed that the country would not forget the sacrifices of its leaders, military commanders and civilians.

Baghaei also accused Israel of continuing attacks in Lebanon and Palestine, saying international institutions had failed to stop what he described as Israeli aggression or condemn actions against Iran.

He stressed that Iran prefers dialogue and diplomacy but said reaching an agreement does not mean abandoning claims related to wartime losses or alleged violations.

According to him, the deal framework includes provisions related to Lebanon, with emphasis on respecting its sovereignty and security, while implementation will be closely monitored amid continued tensions.

Baghaei further said steps are being discussed with Oman to ensure safe maritime passage in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that Iran does not support imposing any toll on ships passing through the waterway.

He said final details of the memorandum are expected to be settled within a day before an official announcement is made.

Germany open World Cup campaign with record 7–1 demolition of Curaçao

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Germany

Germany: Four-time world champions Germany made a statement start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, thrashing debutants Curaçao 7–1 in a dominant Group E encounter.

Germany struck early, taking the lead in the sixth minute through Felix Nmecha, whose curling finish was set up by a sharp touch from Florian Wirtz. The goal is being described as one of the fastest of the tournament so far.

Curaçao, the smallest nation in the competition by population and size, responded impressively in the 21st minute when Levano Comenisa fired a stunning long-range strike past veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to level the score.

The match remained balanced briefly before Germany regained control. Nico Schlotterbeck restored the lead with a header from a corner, followed by a Kai Havertz penalty in first-half stoppage time to make it 3–1.

In the second half, Germany continued their attacking dominance. Jamal Musiala scored within seconds of the restart, followed by goals from Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav.

Havertz added his second late in the match to complete the 7–1 rout, a result reminiscent of Germany’s famous 7–1 win over Brazil in 2014, as they launched their World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion.

Two charged in US over theft of England team gear during World Cup logistics

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Two charged

United States: Two individuals have been charged in connection with the theft of equipment belonging to the England national football team during FIFA World Cup 2026 operations, according to international news reports.

Authorities said Mustafa Salik and Irfan Kamal each face one count of possessing stolen property after the missing items were recovered.

The stolen goods, valued at approximately $18,000, reportedly included England team kits and other training equipment.

Officials stated that the equipment went missing while being transported from the team’s training camp in Florida to its World Cup base in Kansas City.

Under state law, the offense carries a maximum penalty of up to seven years in prison.

Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing turns festive after Japan’s World Cup draw with Netherlands

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Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing

Tokyo: The iconic Shibuya Crossing turned into a sea of celebration after Japan held Netherlands to a thrilling 2–2 draw in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Hundreds of local and international football fans gathered at the famous intersection, waving national flags, chanting slogans and celebrating Japan’s spirited performance in the Group F match.

Despite light rain, enthusiasm remained high as the area transformed into a festive scene shortly after the final whistle.

A widely shared video on social media showed fans briefly stepping onto the road during celebration, but quickly clearing the crossing when the traffic signal turned green, allowing normal traffic flow to resume.

The disciplined behavior of the crowd drew widespread praise online, with users highlighting it as an example of civic responsibility and Japanese cultural discipline.

Earlier, Japan produced a spirited late comeback to secure a 2–2 draw against Netherlands in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F encounter.

The match, played in an intense atmosphere, saw the Netherlands start slightly stronger in the first half, with Daniel Malen creating several chances that forced key saves from Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

The Dutch took the lead in the 51st minute when Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk headed home a precise cross from Ryan Gravenberch.

Japan responded quickly, leveling the score six minutes later through a powerful strike from Keito Nakamura that left the Dutch goalkeeper helpless.

The Netherlands regained the lead in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville finished a brilliant solo effort inside the box.

However, Japan pressed relentlessly in the closing stages and were rewarded just two minutes before full time when Daichi Kamada scored a header to make it 2–2, sparking celebrations among Japanese fans in the stadium.

Both teams earned a point each from the opening Group F fixture, with the match being widely regarded as one of the most exciting early games of the tournament.

Sweden open World Cup campaign with commanding 5–1 win over Tunisia

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Sweden

Sweden: Sweden delivered a dominant performance in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, defeating Tunisia 5–1 in a Group F match played in Monterrey.

Sweden took control early, with Yasin Ayari capitalizing on a defensive error in the 7th minute to give his side the lead. Alexander Isak doubled the advantage in the 30th minute, finishing a precise assist from Viktor Gyökeres.

Tunisia pulled one back before halftime through a header from Omar Rekik, briefly reducing the deficit and keeping the contest alive.

However, Sweden regained full control in the second half, adding two more goals in the 59th and 84th minutes to extend their dominance.

Substitute Swedberg made history by scoring just 12 seconds after coming on, setting a record for the fastest substitute goal in World Cup history.

In stoppage time, Ayari struck again to complete his brace and seal a convincing opening win, sending Sweden to the top of Group F standings.

Japan stage late comeback to hold Netherlands to 2–2 draw in World Cup thriller

Japan produced a spirited late comeback to secure a 2–2 draw against Netherlands in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F encounter.

The match, played in an intense atmosphere, saw the Netherlands start slightly stronger in the first half, with Daniel Malen creating several chances that forced key saves from Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

The Dutch took the lead in the 51st minute when Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk headed home a precise cross from Ryan Gravenberch.

Japan responded quickly, leveling the score six minutes later through a powerful strike from Keito Nakamura that left the Dutch goalkeeper helpless.

The Netherlands regained the lead in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville finished a brilliant solo effort inside the box.

However, Japan pressed relentlessly in the closing stages and were rewarded just two minutes before full time when Daichi Kamada scored a header to make it 2–2, sparking celebrations among Japanese fans in the stadium.

Both teams earned a point each from the opening Group F fixture, with the match being widely regarded as one of the most exciting early games of the tournament.

Late Amad Diallo strike gives Ivory Coast 1–0 win over Ecuador in World Cup thriller

Ivory Coast secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Ecuador in a tense FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E clash, thanks to a last-minute goal from substitute Amad Diallo.

The decisive moment came in the 90th minute when the Manchester United winger finished a swift attacking move with a composed left-foot strike into the corner of the net, sending the stadium into celebration.

The goal was set up following a powerful run from Wilfried Singo, who delivered a precise pass that allowed Diallo to complete the match-winning finish.

The defeat proved particularly painful for Ecuador, ending their 19-match unbeaten run that had lasted nearly two years.

Throughout the match, Ecuador created several clear chances, hitting the crossbar three times through attempts from John Yeboah and Alan Minda in the first half, while experienced striker Enner Valencia also came close after the break.

Ivory Coast also threatened on multiple occasions, with Nice forward Evann Guessand striking the crossbar as well.

Despite Ecuador’s defensive discipline for most of the match, Ivory Coast’s persistence paid off in the dying moments to secure a crucial Group E victory and strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.

Ali Safina clarifies remarks amid Asim Azhar–Merub Ali breakup speculation

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Ali Safina clarifies

Ali Safina: Actor, host and model Ali Safina has addressed ongoing social media speculation regarding the reported split between singer Asim Azhar and model Merub Ali.

Speaking on a private TV morning show hosted by Nadia Khan, Safina responded to questions about whether a podcast discussion involving Merub Ali and references to Hania Aamir had contributed to tensions between the couple.

Safina clarified that he shares a friendly professional relationship with Merub Ali and that their past conversation was casual and light-hearted in nature. He said a social media user later amplified the clip, which sparked unnecessary controversy online.

He added that what began as an informal discussion was exaggerated on social media, leading to widespread speculation about the personal lives of those involved. Safina emphasized that the intent of the conversation was not to comment on anyone’s private relationships.

The issue gained traction after a podcast clip from last year resurfaced online, triggering debates and assumptions across social media platforms.

Ali Zafar sets record with massive 45,000-strong concert in Canada

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Ali Zafar

Ali Zafar: Pakistani singer, actor and musician Ali Zafar has set a new record with a historic open-air concert in Canada, drawing an estimated 45,000 fans in a landmark musical event.

The concert was held at Celebration Square in Mississauga, a major public venue that was declared by organizers as hosting its largest-ever musical gathering.

Due to the overwhelming turnout, crowds spilled beyond the square into surrounding streets and nearby areas.

The show marked the closing performance of Ali Zafar’s “Lights Tour 2026” North America leg and was attended by fans from across the South Asian diaspora, including Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. The audience included families, children and people of all ages.

A highlight of the night came when Ali Zafar performed his popular song “Jhoom,” prompting thousands of fans to light up their mobile phone torches, turning the venue into a sea of lights.

The singer also stepped down from the stage to interact with fans, drawing enthusiastic reactions from the crowd.

Speaking during the event, he emphasized unity, cultural pride and mutual respect, urging people to stay connected to their roots while respecting individual choices and freedoms.

The concert concluded with fans continuing to sing along, with organizers describing it as one of the most memorable cultural events in Mississauga’s history.