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Newsdesk

President Trump says US will not rush exit from Iran conflict

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President Trump

FLORIDA: US President Donald Trump has stated that the United States will not prematurely withdraw from the ongoing conflict involving Iran, warning that a hasty exit could lead to the issue resurfacing in the future.

According to reports by Reuters, Trump made the remarks while speaking in Florida, saying the US would not leave “without finishing the job” in Iran to avoid facing a similar crisis again in a few years.

He added that if the United States withdrew too quickly, the same problem could re-emerge within three years, stressing the need for what he described as a complete and long-term resolution.

Trump further stated that Washington seeks a proper solution to the Iran conflict and would not accept temporary arrangements or short-term strategies.

Although he did not specify what “finishing the job” entails, he has previously hinted at broader strategic changes, including leadership transitions in Iran.

The former president has also repeatedly described Iran’s current leadership under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as a threat, while earlier signaling support for regime change in Tehran.

The remarks come amid ongoing regional tensions and continued debate over the future direction of US policy toward Iran.

YouTube partners with FIFA as preferred platform for World Cup 2026

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YouTube partners

YouTube has officially entered into a strategic partnership with the FIFA to become a Preferred Platform for the FIFA World Cup 2026, aiming to transform how fans around the world engage with the tournament through digital-first content and creator-driven integration.

For the first time, media partners will have the option to livestream the opening 10 minutes of every match on their official YouTube channels, marking a significant shift in sports broadcasting access. Select matches will also be available for full live streaming via designated media partners.

As part of the collaboration, FIFA will launch its Digital Archive on its official YouTube channel, offering fans access to full-length classic matches and iconic historical moments from past tournaments.

The partnership also enables broadcasters and media partners to distribute extended highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, and video-on-demand content. In addition, YouTube’s short-form vertical video format will be used to reach younger and mobile-first audiences more effectively.

FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström welcomed the development, saying the agreement will help unlock new opportunities for media partners and creators while engaging global fans in innovative ways.

The initiative is designed to align the World Cup experience with evolving media consumption trends, combining official match coverage with creator-led content to connect with the next generation of sports audiences.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Google is also exploring further sports collaborations, including partnerships with national teams such as Argentina and France, with additional announcements expected in the coming weeks.

Babar Azam eyes first PSL title as captain with Peshawar Zalmi

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Babar Azam

Pakistan former Test captain Babar Azam is set for a golden opportunity to win his maiden Pakistan Super League title as a captain, with Peshawar Zalmi reaching the final for the first time under his leadership.

Babar, who joined Zalmi in 2022 after leaving Karachi Kings, previously featured in the inaugural PSL season in 2016 with Islamabad United under captain Misbah-ul-Haq, where he played only two matches and was not part of the squad that lifted the title against Quetta Gladiators.

From 2017 to 2021, Babar represented Karachi Kings, who won their first PSL title in 2020 under captain Imad Wasim by defeating Lahore Qalandars at the National Stadium in Karachi.

In that championship-winning season, Babar was the standout performer, scoring 554 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 132.53.

In the current PSL season, Babar continues his strong form, amassing 588 runs in 10 matches at an impressive strike rate of 146.26, making him one of the key players heading into the final.

Bearish week at Pakistan Stock Exchange as index drops 7,678 points

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Bearish week

KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange witnessed a bearish trend throughout the week, as the benchmark KSE-100 Index declined by 4.5 percent during a shortened four-day trading session.

The index plunged by 7,678 points, closing at 162,994 points compared to the previous week’s close of 170,672 points. During the week, the market lost eight key psychological levels, reflecting sustained investor pessimism.

Market activity remained under pressure, with the index hitting a weekly high of 171,306 points, while the lowest level recorded was 160,391 points.

The overall market capitalization shrank significantly by Rs854 billion over the week, settling at Rs18,022 billion by the end of trading.

According to market experts, the downturn was driven by a combination of factors, including disappointing financial results from listed companies, a rise in interest rates, and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, all of which dampened investor confidence and triggered continued selling pressure.

Iran reportedly softens stance on US talks: report

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Iran reportedly

WASHINGTON: The The Wall Street Journal has claimed that Iran has eased its conditions for potential peace negotiations with the United States, signaling a possible shift in its diplomatic approach.

According to the report, Iran is willing to drop its demand for the immediate lifting of blockades and may also agree to hold talks in Pakistan next week, subject to US approval.

The report further states that Tehran has sent a 14-point proposal to Washington through Pakistan. Under the proposed framework, Iran’s nuclear and missile programs would not be included in initial negotiations.

It adds that discussions on reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be linked to the process of lifting blockades, while talks on easing US sanctions could be addressed at a later stage.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, speaking in Florida, reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. He warned that unresolved tensions could resurface in the future if left unaddressed.

Trump also claimed that US naval forces were effectively acting in a “pirate-like” manner by intercepting Iranian vessels and oil shipments, describing the operations as economically beneficial while defending US strategic objectives in the region.

However, Iranian military officials struck a contrasting tone. Sardar Asadi, deputy inspector at the Khatam al-Anbia headquarters, said Iranian armed forces remain on full alert, warning of the possibility of renewed confrontation between Iran and the United States.

Separately, senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mohsen Rezaei stated that the United States would “learn new lessons” in the Gulf region, criticizing US military leadership as inexperienced in regional geography and complexities.

Saudi Arabia reverses Hajj age restriction

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Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia has withdrawn its earlier decision to impose a minimum age limit of 15 years for Hajj pilgrims, restoring the previous policy that allows children aged 12 and above to perform the pilgrimage.

According to a statement issued by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, the restriction on pilgrims under 15 years has been lifted, and previously rejected visas under the short-lived policy will now be reprocessed.

The PCAA confirmed that the earlier eligibility criteria have been reinstated, under which children aged 12 or above can travel for Hajj.

A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs also verified that the Saudi government has taken back its decision regarding the age restriction.

 The Pakistan Hajj Mission has issued a notification in line with the updated Saudi directives.

As per the revised instructions, pilgrims aged 12 and above will now be allowed to travel to Saudi Arabia, maintaining the earlier policy framework.

It is worth noting that only hours earlier, authorities had announced a ban on children under 15 from traveling for Hajj, effective May 3, 2026, with visas of underage pilgrims declared invalid. However, the decision was swiftly reversed, bringing relief to affected families.

Dwayne Johnson cited by police over window tint violation

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Dwayne Johnson

LOS ANGELES: WWE legend and Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson was reportedly issued a citation by police in Los Angeles after a minor legal violation following his attendance at a Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony.

According to international media reports, the incident took place when Johnson was returning from the event, where he was stopped by law enforcement over allegedly tinted car windows.

Authorities stated that the vehicle was flagged due to violation of California’s strict window tint regulations.

In the state of California, front-side windows must allow at least 70 percent light transparency, while rear windows may be tinted under specific conditions. Windshields are permitted only limited tinting along the top section.

Officials further explained that first-time violations typically result in a fine of around $25 along with instructions to correct the issue, while repeat offenses can lead to penalties of up to $200 and formal citations.

Johnson, who had attended a Hollywood Walk of Fame event earlier in the day, reportedly cooperated fully with the officers during the stop.

Actress Sonali Bendre opens up on her fight against cancer

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Actress Sonali Bendre

MUMBAI: Indian actress Sonali Bendre has said that her cancer might not have progressed to an advanced stage had it been diagnosed earlier, highlighting the critical importance of timely detection.

In a recent interview, Bendre opened up about her 2018 diagnosis with Metastatic Cancer and her treatment journey, revealing that one of the biggest challenges she faced was the lack of open discussion about the disease in society.

She shared that after being diagnosed with stage IV cancer, she underwent extensive treatment in New York, including chemotherapy and surgery.

The actress noted that an earlier diagnosis could have significantly reduced the severity of her experience.

Bendre emphasized that, in the past, cancer was often considered a taboo subject, with people hesitant to even mention it openly.

However, she acknowledged that awareness around the disease has improved in recent years.

She stressed that if detected at an early stage, cancer is treatable and should not be viewed as a death sentence. She urged the public to prioritize regular medical check-ups and early screening, noting that timely diagnosis can save countless lives.

Asher Wajahat compared to Aryan Khan, social media debate intensifies

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Asher Wajahat

Young Pakistani actor Asher Wajahat, currently winning hearts with his role as “Sabuk” in the Kafeel on ARY Digital, has become the center of attention online not just for his performance, but for his striking resemblance to Aryan Khan.

Social media users have recently pointed out similarities between Asher Wajahat and Aryan Khan, the son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

 Many believe the two share similar facial features and style, sparking widespread comparisons across platforms.

Images and videos of both personalities are being widely circulated online, with users analyzing their expressions, mannerisms, and overall appearance. The comparison has triggered a mixed response among fans.

While some users strongly agree with the resemblance, others have rejected the comparison. One user commented that they had long believed both look alike, while another criticized the comparison, questioning why Pakistani talent is being measured against Indian celebrities.

Some also pointed out differences, noting that Aryan Khan has sharper features, whereas Asher Wajahat carries a softer, more innocent look.

The ongoing debate highlights how social media continues to shape celebrity narratives, often creating unexpected cross-border comparisons.

Bushra Ansari criticizes viral mimicry video, calls it ‘inappropriate’

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Bushra Ansari

Veteran Pakistani actress Bushra Ansari has expressed displeasure over a viral video in which her mimicry was performed, saying the act crossed acceptable boundaries.

The video, circulating widely on social media, prompted a question during a recent TV interview where the host asked why she objected, especially when mimicry has long been part of the entertainment industry.

Responding to this, Bushra Ansari said that while she had performed impersonations in the past, her work maintained respect and dignity.

She cited her performances mimicking legendary singers Tahira Syed, Noor Jehan, Musarrat Nazir, and Salma Agha, emphasizing that those renditions contained no offensive or personal remarks.

She explained that her performances focused on artistic expression rather than targeting anyone’s personality or private life.

Ansari added that the songs she performed were written with respect, and even her own creative contributions upheld those values.

The actress remarked that the recent mimicry lacked quality and crossed into poor taste. However, she recalled appreciating a previous impersonation by Veena Malik, noting that it was done respectfully.

Ansari also shared that she had once been encouraged to mimic Naheed Akhtar but declined, as she felt she could not do justice to the singer’s unique style.

She concluded by stressing that mimicry should remain respectful and within ethical boundaries rather than becoming offensive or demeaning.