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Newsdesk

Iran warns of unused advanced weapons amid rising tensions with US

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Iran warns

TEHRAN: Iran has issued a strong warning following threats of possible military action from the United States, claiming it possesses advanced weapons that have not yet been used on the battlefield.

According to a Russian news agency report, an Iranian military source said the country has locally developed sophisticated defensive and offensive weapon systems that have neither been deployed nor tested in combat situations so far.

The source warned that Iran would not show restraint if the United States launches another attack, adding that Tehran is fully prepared for any potential escalation.

Iranian officials also reportedly stated that the country faces no shortage of military equipment or defense capabilities and remains fully capable of defending itself against external threats.

The statement comes after US President Donald Trump recently renewed threats of military action against Iran, saying Washington could take strong measures if negotiations fail.

Meanwhile, American and Western officials have continued to express concern over Iran’s missile capabilities and broader military program, while Iran insists its defense activities are solely intended to safeguard national security.

Analysts warn that growing tensions between Iran and the United States could trigger a fresh crisis in the Middle East, particularly raising global concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf region.

Kangana Ranaut urges women to prioritize careers

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Kangana Ranaut

MUMBAI: Indian actress Kangana Ranaut has advised women to focus on building their careers before marriage, expressing concern over the increasing number of bride deaths linked to dowry demands in India.

In an Instagram story, the Bollywood actress and politician said heartbreaking reports involving young married women continue to emerge daily, including cases of educated women pleading with their parents to rescue them from toxic environments before tragedies occur.

Kangana criticized what she described as a social mindset in which daughters are often abandoned after marriage, leaving many women vulnerable to abuse and harassment.

Referring to the pressures created by social media and lifestyle industries, she told young women that career independence is more important than relationships or marriage.

“You have to become your own hero. No one is coming to save you,” she wrote, adding that a woman’s identity and achievements matter more than whom she marries.

Her remarks came after the death of 33-year-old actress Tvesha Sharma from Noida, who was found dead earlier this month at her husband’s residence in Bhopal.

Police have registered a case against Sharma’s husband, lawyer Samarth Singh, and mother-in-law Giri Bala Singh on charges of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide following a complaint filed by the actress’s parents.

Rizwan likely to be dropped for Australia ODI series

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Rizwan likely

LAHORE: Experienced Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan is likely to be dropped from the upcoming ODI series against Australia national cricket team as the team management considers trying new wicketkeeping options.

According to reports, the squad for the three-match ODI series is being finalized after consultations between head coach Mike Hesson and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, with Rizwan’s inclusion appearing increasingly unlikely.

Sources said Hesson is not in favor of retaining Rizwan in the ODI setup after already moving away from him in T20 cricket.

The 33-year-old Rizwan has scored 2,979 runs in 103 ODIs for Pakistan at an average of 40.08, including four centuries and 19 half-centuries. As a wicketkeeper, he has taken 113 catches and completed seven stumpings.

In Pakistan’s three-match ODI series against Bangladesh national cricket team in March 2026, Rizwan managed 58 runs.

Reports further suggested that Ghazi Ghori, who made his debut as a batter in the third ODI against Bangladesh on March 15, 2026, is likely to remain with the squad for the Australia series. One of Usman Khan or Mirza Saad Baig could also be selected as the second wicketkeeper.

The Australian team is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on May 23, while Pakistan will begin training in Rawalpindi from May 22 and is also expected to play a practice match ahead of the series.

The ODI matches between Pakistan and Australia are scheduled for May 30, June 2 and June 4.

Gold prices surge in local markets after one-day decline

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Gold prices

KARACHI: Gold prices witnessed a sharp rebound in both international and local markets on Thursday after declining a day earlier.

In the international bullion market, the price of gold rose by $50 per ounce, pushing the global rate to $4,530 per ounce.

Following the upward trend in the global market, local bullion markets also recorded a significant increase in gold prices during the fourth trading day of the week.

The price of 24-karat gold per tola surged by Rs5,000, reaching Rs475,362 in the local market.

Similarly, the price of 10 grams of gold increased by Rs4,287 to settle at Rs407,546.

Meanwhile, silver prices also moved upward across the country. The price of silver per tola climbed by Rs60 to Rs8,034, while the rate for 10 grams of silver increased by Rs51 to Rs6,887.

A day earlier, gold prices had dropped sharply, with the international market declining by $68 per ounce to $4,480. In the domestic market, gold prices had fallen by Rs6,800 per tola to Rs470,362, while the price of 10 grams had decreased by Rs5,830 to Rs403,259.

FIFPRO raises fresh concerns over extreme heat at FIFA World Cup

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FIFPRO raises

NEW YORK: Global football players’ union FIFPRO has once again expressed concerns over extreme heat risks during the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

According to a new report by climate research group World Weather Attribution, nearly one-quarter of the tournament’s matches could be played in conditions where temperatures may pose serious risks to players and spectators.

The report warned that at least five matches in the expanded 104-game tournament could face weather conditions severe enough to warrant postponement recommendations.

Researchers used the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index to assess heat stress levels, measuring how effectively the human body can cool itself under extreme weather conditions.

FIFPRO Medical Director Vincent Gouttebarge said special safety measures become necessary when WBGT temperatures exceed 26 degrees Celsius, while suspending matches is recommended when levels rise above 28 degrees Celsius.

In response, FIFA said it has already developed plans to protect players and fans, including cooling systems, hydration breaks and enhanced medical services.

Experts believe extreme heat could also affect the style of play, with teams likely to adopt more cautious tactics to manage physical strain.

The report identified cities such as Miami, New York City, Philadelphia and Kansas City among the locations facing the highest heat risk, while warning that temperatures during the tournament final could also reach dangerous levels.

Pakistan steps up preventive measures amid global Ebola concerns

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Pakistan steps

ISLAMABAD: The spread of the deadly Ebola outbreak originating in African countries has raised global alarm, with the World Health Organization declaring the situation a serious public health concern.

In response to the potential threat, Pakistan’s Ministry of Health has initiated precautionary measures and directed the National Institute of Health to ensure the availability of laboratory testing kits and take all necessary preparedness steps.

The ministry has also instructed Border Health Services authorities to remain on high alert and intensify screening of passengers arriving from Uganda and Democratic Republic of the Congo at airports across the country.

Officials said symptoms of Ebola hemorrhagic fever closely resemble those of dengue virus, prompting health authorities to advise medical staff to exercise extra caution while handling suspected cases.

According to officials from Pakistan’s federal health ministry, the situation within the country remains fully under control and there is no immediate cause for concern.

Meanwhile, more than 300 suspected Ebola cases and 80 deaths have been reported in affected African countries so far. A team from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also arrived in the affected regions to assist response efforts.

Oil prices drop as Trump signals progress in Iran talks

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Oil prices drop

WASHINGTON: Global oil prices fell sharply after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism over progress in negotiations with Iran, easing investor concerns over potential supply disruptions.

International media reported that Brent crude dropped more than 5%, falling to around $105 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate also recorded a noticeable decline.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump said talks with Iran were in their final stages and voiced hope that an agreement could soon be reached. His remarks helped calm market sentiment and reduced pressure on global energy prices.

However, analysts warned that geopolitical risks in the Middle East remain elevated, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments. Any disruption in maritime traffic through the chokepoint continues to pose a major risk to supply stability.

Financial institutions cautioned that failure in negotiations or renewed military escalation in the region could push oil prices back toward $120 to $200 per barrel.

Despite the recent decline, volatility in global energy markets has persisted throughout the year due to ongoing tensions involving Iran and broader Middle East uncertainty.

Trump issues stark warning to Iran over nuclear talks

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Trump issues

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said Iran will either be forced into a deal or face severe consequences, warning of potential military and maritime action if negotiations fail.

Addressing a Coast Guard Academy graduation ceremony, Trump said that the United States had previously been weakened under the Biden administration, but claimed that Iran’s military capabilities, including its navy and air force, had been significantly diminished.

He said Iran would not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons and claimed Tehran was eager to reach an agreement with Washington.

“If there is no deal, we will carry out strong strikes,” Trump said, adding that the United States could impose a maritime blockade under a plan he referred to as the “Steel Wall,” which he said would be impossible to break.

Trump further warned that the United States could seize additional Iranian oil tankers if an agreement is not reached, saying the situation would depend on whether Iran chooses to sign a deal or face escalation.

Sonya Hussyn recalls on-set injury while filming ‘Psycho’

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Sonya Hussyn

KARACHI: Pakistani actor Sonya Hussyn recalled suffering an on-set injury while filming the upcoming action movie “Psycho,” saying a scene involving a door left her knocked to the ground.

Speaking to digital media during the film’s trailer launch in Karachi, Hussyn said several scenes were physically demanding, but one sequence stood out as the most memorable.

She said actor Shaan Shahid instructed her to run and open a door during the scene, but before she reached it, actor Meera opened the door from the other side.

“The door hit me hard on the head, and I fell down,” Hussyn said with a smile, adding that both she and Meera sustained injuries during filming.

Hussyn said Meera received multiple bruises because she became fully immersed in her role, but described working with her as an enjoyable experience.

“Psycho,” produced under the Geo Films banner, is scheduled for nationwide release in Pakistan during Eid al-Adha.

The film stars Shaan Shahid, Sonia Hussyn, Meera and Shabbir Jan.

Sara Ali Khan prefers waiting for right life partner

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Sara Ali Khan

MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan says she is in no rush to get married, adding that waiting for the right partner is better than entering a relationship under pressure.

According to Indian media, the actor made the remarks while promoting her upcoming film “Pati Patni Aur Woh 2” and discussing her views on marriage, relationships and life priorities in a recent interview.

Sara said her perspective has been shaped by personal experiences and by observing the relationships of people around her.

“Marriages do not always turn out the way people expect,” she said, noting that she has learned from what she has seen in her own life and among family and friends.

She said it is more important to be patient and marry the right person than to make a hurried decision because of social expectations.

Speaking about her current priorities, Sara said she is focused on her career and wants to remain independent before committing to a serious relationship.

She added that if the right person enters her life naturally, things will happen at the appropriate time.