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US Supreme Court strikes down President Trump’s trade tariffs

US Supreme Court

WASHINGTON: The US Supreme Court has struck down President Donald Trump’s global trade tariffs, ruling that he exceeded his authority when imposing them, severely impacting international trade.

According to reports, the court stated that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not grant the President the power to impose such tariffs.

The decision is being seen as a major judicial setback for Trump’s economic agenda, as tariffs were considered a key tool of his trade policy.

Experts warn that the ruling could also affect trade agreements made earlier this year, establishing new limits on what policies the President can implement without Congressional approval.

It is noteworthy that Trump had imposed tariffs on multiple countries, including Pakistan. Last month, he had warned that a court ruling against these measures could put the US at a disadvantage.

5.6 magnitude earthquake rocks Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cities

5.6 magnitude earthquake

PESHAWAR: Residents across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Malakand, Lower Dir, Hangu, Kohat, Bajaur, Swat, Buner, Shangla, and North Waziristan, reported feeling tremors from a recent earthquake.

The tremors were also felt in Swabi, Upper Dir, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi.

The earthquake registered a magnitude of 5.6, with its epicenter in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan at a depth of 73 kilometers.

Following the quake, residents reportedly recited Kalma Tayyiba as they evacuated their homes.

No casualties or property damage have been reported so far.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have advised people to remain alert for aftershocks.

Rain threat looms over Pak vs NZ Super 8 T20 World Cup match

Rain threat looms

COLOMBO: Weather concerns are rising ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8 clash between Pakistan and New Zealand, scheduled for Saturday at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting encounter, but similar to other matches in Sri Lanka, rain poses a significant threat.

According to AccuWeather, there is a 74% chance of rain in Colombo tomorrow, along with predictions of strong winds.

ICC rules state that there is no reserve day for Super 8 matches in the T20 World Cup 2026.

If rain prevents at least 5 overs per innings for either team, the match will be abandoned, and both teams will be awarded one point each.

Fans and teams alike will be keeping a close eye on the weather, as conditions could play a decisive role in this high-stakes Super 8 encounter.

Mike Hesson confident in Babar Azam’s specialized role

Mike Hesson

COLOMBO: Ahead of Pakistan’s Super 8 T20 World Cup match against New Zealand, Pakistan cricket team head coach Mike Hesson expressed full confidence in captain Babar Azam, highlighting his specialized skills and the strategic role he plays in the team.

Hesson emphasized that Babar knows what is expected of him and that after the Asia Cup, he has been brought back for a specific role in the middle order.

He noted that Babar’s strike rate in powerplays is below 100, which is not the role required from him. The coach referenced Babar’s performance in the match against the USA, where he successfully increased his strike rate.

Hesson stated that at times, other players may execute certain roles more effectively, but Babar possesses unique skills critical for Pakistan’s strategy.

Hesson confirmed that Fakhar Zaman remains in the squad and will play when needed.

He highlighted that in Sri Lankan conditions, spinners will play a significant role, and team combinations will be adjusted accordingly.

Usman Tariq was praised for his exceptional skills, capable of both attack and defense simultaneously.

Hesson also clarified that Salman Agha’s reaction during his dismissal was only due to being upset, and no further discussion occurred.

Pakistan and New Zealand will clash in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on Saturday.

Hesson expressed confidence that the team is well-prepared and hopes to take full advantage of the playing conditions.

This press conference reaffirmed Pakistan’s strategic planning, emphasizing Babar Azam’s central role and the adaptability of the squad in critical T20 match scenarios.

Mahira Khan wants Humayun Saeed to play villain in upcoming film

Mahira Khan

ISLAMABAD: Renowned Pakistani actress Mahira Khan expressed her desire to see senior actor Humayun Saeed in a villainous role, revealing her thoughts during a promotional appearance for her upcoming film “Aag Lage Basti Mein”.

Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa participated in comedy show “Hansna Mana Hai”, where host Tabish Hashmi engaged them in games and interactive questions.

When asked what advice she would give to Humayun Saeed, Mahira Khan said she would love to see him in a unique villain role, similar to characters like Noori Nath, and mentioned that Humayun also enjoys action-hero roles.

Fahad Mustafa, asked about performing action sequences, shared that he also enjoys action but faces challenges due to limited facilities in Pakistan.

He revealed that during the ongoing film shoot, he had a finger injury, highlighting the physical demands of action filming.

The discussion not only gave fans a glimpse into the actors’ preferences for diverse roles but also highlighted the growing interest in action and unique character-driven performances in Pakistani cinema.

Bollywood Actor Rajpal Yadav requests smoking area in Jail

Bollywood Actor

NEW DELHI: Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav, who surrendered to authorities in connection with a check bounce case, has suggested that prisons should provide designated areas for smoking, similar to facilities at railway stations and airports.

Jail Surrender and Release

Yadav surrendered to jail authorities as per Delhi High Court orders related to multiple check dishonor cases. On Wednesday, he was granted release and thanked the film fraternity and his fans for their support.

Speaking to the media in his native village in Shahjahanpur, he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming affection he received from the public.

Suggestions on Prison Reforms

The actor emphasized that jails should function as reform centers, providing organized opportunities for inmates to change and improve themselves.

He specifically recommended that designated smoking areas should be provided inside prisons for inmates.

Court Proceedings

The Delhi High Court had withdrawn leniency previously granted in Yadav’s multiple check dishonor cases, instructing him to surrender by February 4.

Yadav complied by reporting to Tihar Jail.

Reports indicate that his lawyer requested additional time for payment of INR 5 million, which the court rejected.

This incident has sparked discussions on prison reforms and facilities for inmates, highlighting Yadav’s unusual but practical suggestions regarding jail amenities.

US deploys largest aircraft carrier near Iran amid rising tensions

US deploys

The United States’ largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, has entered the Mediterranean amid rising tensions with Iran and ongoing nuclear negotiations between the two nations.

Naval Deployment Amid Rising Tensions

According to international news agencies, the second round of US-Iran nuclear talks has begun, but tensions remain high. Monitoring websites reported that the USS Gerald R. Ford, part of a Carrier Strike Group, is currently transiting the Strait of Gibraltar, signaling rapid movement toward the Middle East.

The deployment follows orders from US President Donald Trump, who last week instructed the carrier strike group to move toward the region as military options against Iran were being considered.

US defense officials expect the carrier to reach the Middle East within a few days, becoming operationally ready for potential missions against Iran.

Operational Readiness

Images released by the US Department of Defense show F/A-18F Super Hornet jets taking off from the deck of the USS Gerald R. Ford in the Mediterranean, highlighting the carrier’s operational preparedness.

With tensions escalating in the region, this deployment is considered a critical strategic move by the United States as the nuclear negotiations continue.

FBR orders online monitoring of over 14 business sectors

FBR orders online

LAHORE: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced a nationwide plan to monitor business activities online by mandating Point of Sale (POS) systems for more than 14 types of businesses.

POS Requirement for Various Sectors

According to the FBR notification: Hotels, restaurants, guest houses, marriage halls, marquees, and race clubs must install POS systems, except where air conditioning is unavailable.

Retail shops, hospitals, clubs, beauty parlors, and other service providers must also be linked to the FBR system.

Vehicles operating in cities, courier and cargo services, and medical professionals such as dentists, physiotherapists, plastic and hair surgeons, veterinary doctors, medical labs, X-ray, CT, and MRI centers are required to implement POS.

Beauty parlors, massage centers, pedicure centers, and private hospitals must also comply, with hospitals charging a fee of 500 PKR granted an exemption.

Expansion to Health Clubs, Gyms, and Educational Institutions

Health clubs, gyms, swimming pools, multipurpose clubs, civil and non-civil polo clubs, chartered accountants, and cost management accountants are now included in the POS mandate.

Retailers, manufacturers, importers, foreign exchange dealers, currency exchange companies, private educational institutions, and vocational training centers are also required to integrate online systems.

Institutions charging a monthly fee of 1,000 PKR are exempt from the POS requirement.

Cities Covered and Implementation

The FBR notification specifically mentions Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, directing all gyms, clubs, and other establishments in these cities to comply. Retailers, manufacturers, and importers nationwide must integrate their systems with FBR online monitoring to enhance transparency and tax compliance.

This move is part of the FBR’s broader strategy to digitize and monitor business operations across Pakistan.

Zimbabwe outclass Sri Lanka by six wickets

Zimbabwe outclass

Colombo: Zimbabwe delivered a commanding performance to defeat hosts Sri Lanka by six wickets in a Group B clash of the ICC T20 World Cup.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to bat first and posted 178 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Pathum Nissanka led the charge with a solid 62 runs, while Rathnayake contributed a valuable 44 runs to anchor the innings.

Confident Run Chase

In reply, Zimbabwe chased down the 179-run target comfortably in the final over, losing just four wickets.

Opener Brian Bennett remained unbeaten on 63, guiding his side home with composure. He was well supported by: Sikandar Raza – 45 runs,  Marumani – 34 runs and Ryan Burl – 23 runs.

Zimbabwe Top Group B

With this victory, Zimbabwe finished top of Group B with seven points, remaining unbeaten in the group stage.

Zimbabwe won three out of four matches, registering victories over Australia and Sri Lanka, while one match was washed out due to rain.

It is worth noting that both Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka had already qualified for the Super 8 stage from Group B prior to this encounter.

Former Prince Andrew arrested over misconduct allegations

Former Prince Andrew

The younger brother of King Charles III, has reportedly been taken into custody over allegations of misconduct in public office.

According to reports, Ex-Prince Andrew — formally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — is accused of providing confidential government documents to disgraced American financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Investigators from Thames Valley Police detained him on Thursday for questioning in connection with the allegations.

Investigation Into Official Role

Earlier this month, police confirmed they were examining claims that Prince Andrew, during his tenure as a trade envoy, may have shared sensitive official documents with Epstein.

Prince Andrew has previously denied any involvement in illegal activities related to Epstein and has expressed regret over their association. However, following the recent release of millions of pages of documents by US authorities, he has not issued further comment.

First of Its Kind Arrest

The reported detention marks the first time a senior member of the British royal family has faced arrest under such allegations.

In a statement, King Charles III said the reports concerning Prince Andrew were “a matter of deep concern,” adding that authorities would have the full support of the royal family and that “the law must take its course.”

He further stated that it would be inappropriate to comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing.

Palace Response

Buckingham Palace has previously said it would fully cooperate with any police investigation and reiterated concerns regarding the allegations surrounding Prince Andrew’s conduct.

The case has intensified scrutiny following the release of more than three million pages of documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, which allegedly referenced official reports from overseas visits in 2010 to Vietnam, Singapore, and other countries.