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Newsdesk

PSX turns positive as Iran-US talk’s news boost investor sentiment

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PSX turns positive

Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) rebounded sharply into positive territory following reports of an Iranian delegation’s expected visit to Pakistan for the second round of Iran-US talks.

The benchmark KSE-100 Index surged by 1,498 points to close at 170,672 points. Earlier in the trading session, the index had plunged by 2,165 points to 167,007 points before reversing its losses.

Market analysts linked the recovery to emerging diplomatic developments, including expectations of renewed dialogue between Iran and United States, with Pakistan playing a mediating role.

In global commodities, crude oil prices also declined amid easing geopolitical concerns. Brent crude fell from $107 to $104 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) dropped by $2 to trade near $95 per barrel.

According to sources, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad, while a US delegation may also travel to Pakistan as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at facilitating peace talks.

Yami Gautam opens up about Quran study for character in ‘Haq’

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Yami Gautam opens

Mumbai: Bollywood filmmaker Supran Verma has revealed that actress Yami Gautam studied the Quran as part of her preparation for her role in the upcoming film “Haq”.

In an interview with a British media outlet, the director said that Yami Gautam made a dedicated effort to understand her character “Shazia Bano” more deeply by studying the Holy Quran, a process that reportedly took her around four months.

He added that the film also includes references from the Quran and concludes with the word “Iqra,” reflecting its thematic focus.

Verma explained that the project aimed to address misconceptions about Islam and present a more informed and accurate perspective, especially in an era where information is widely available but often confusing or misleading.

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He further stated that he worked on the film’s religious and social context for nearly one and a half years, consulting multiple sources and drawing insights from Muslim friends to ensure authenticity.

According to him, the film also touches on sensitive social issues such as “triple talaq” and attempts to present the concept of “mehr” as a social contract rather than a misunderstood tradition.

The director raised broader questions about social change, asking whether women’s conditions have significantly improved over the past 40 years, noting that many still face social pressure, discrimination, and legal challenges.

“Haq” is reportedly inspired by the real-life story of Shazia Bano and is based on the book “Bano: Bharat Ki Beti”. The film features Emraan Hashmi alongside Yami Gautam in lead roles.

Netanyahu reveals prostate cancer diagnosis

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Netanyahu reveals

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has disclosed that he was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer but has since completed treatment and is now fully healthy.

In December 2024, his office had announced that Netanyahu underwent surgery for an enlarged prostate.

However, he has now confirmed that subsequent medical reports revealed a cancerous tumor measuring less than one centimetre.

In a video message shared on social media, Netanyahu said he is now in good health, adding that the condition was “minor” and has been fully treated.

According to sources, the illness was diagnosed several months ago, and he began radiation therapy around 10 weeks ago.

The Israeli prime minister also explained a two-month delay in the release of his annual medical report, saying it was intended to avoid what he described as misinformation or propaganda amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran.

Medical reports issued by his doctors confirmed that the cancer was very small and had not spread to other parts of the body.

Israel’s medical team has reportedly declared Netanyahu cancer-free, stating that there is no remaining sign of the disease, while Israeli media reports say he has been issued a clean bill of health following successful treatment.

“Michael” biopic sparks renewed global craze for Michael Jackson

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“Michael” biopic

The highly anticipated Hollywood biographical film “Michael” based on the life of global pop icon Michael Jackson was released worldwide on April 24, 2026, and quickly began trending on social media within hours of its debut.

The film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, has already generated strong curiosity among audiences due to its trailer and star-studded cast.

Michael Jackson is portrayed by his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, marking his major acting debut. The film also features performances from well-known actors including Miles Teller and Colman Domingo, along with other supporting cast members.

The biopic focuses on Jackson’s early life, his journey with the Jackson 5, and his rise to global superstardom. It highlights his music career, family relationships, and the pressures of fame, with particular emphasis on his 1980s “Bad Tour” era.

Reports suggest that the screenplay underwent multiple revisions and reshoots during production, resulting in some limitations in covering certain aspects of his later life.

Early reviews of the film are mixed but largely critical, with reviewers praising its visual scale and musical performances while noting that some controversial aspects of Jackson’s life appear to have been treated cautiously or minimally.

Despite the criticism, Jaafar Jackson’s performance has received significant appreciation for closely capturing his uncle’s style, dance moves, and stage presence.

“Michael” had already been labeled one of the most anticipated biopics of 2026, and its global release is expected to draw large audiences to cinemas worldwide.

Saba Faisal faces backlash again over controversial remarks in viral interview

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Saba Faisal

KARACHI: Pakistani senior actress Saba Faisal has once again come under criticism on social media following her recent controversial remarks in an interview.

In recent months, several clips of the actress have gone viral in which she was seen discussing domestic issues, particularly relating to daughters-in-law and their roles in in-laws’ households. These comments previously sparked strong backlash from social media users.

In her latest interview, Saba Faisal commented on husbands’ relationships with women outside marriage, saying she felt that some men believe that if they are financially stable and their wives are at home, they may still seek other relationships.

She further stated that wives should remain patient, adding that a husband, no matter where he goes, eventually returns home.

The actress also shared a personal anecdote involving her husband, recalling an incident where she visited his office and introduced herself as his wife to a receptionist.

According to her, the interaction led to an unusual situation the following day when her husband mentioned the receptionist had resigned.

Saba Faisal added that people often react differently when they learn about her marital identity, suggesting it can influence behavior in workplace settings.

Clips from the interview have gone viral across social media platforms, with users criticizing her for making what they termed inappropriate and unnecessary public statements. Many users have urged public figures to avoid sharing such personal or sensitive views in the media.

Iranian FM expected to arrive in Islamabad tonight for second round of talks

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Iranian FM

ISLAMABAD: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad tonight with a small delegation, according to government sources.

Sources said that following key engagements with Pakistan’s mediation team, the second round of the proposed “Islamabad peace talks” between the United States and Iran is likely to take place.

Officials further stated that a US logistical and security team is already present in Islamabad in preparation for the negotiations.

Earlier, Araghchi held a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, during which both sides discussed regional developments, ceasefire efforts, and ongoing diplomatic initiatives.

According to the Foreign Office of Pakistan spokesperson, the two leaders reviewed the evolving regional situation and Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts in the context of U.S.-Iran contacts.

Ishaq Dar emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement to resolve outstanding issues and promote lasting peace and stability in the region.

The Iranian foreign minister appreciated Pakistan’s constructive and positive role in facilitating diplomacy, and both sides agreed to remain in close contact.

Pakistan continues its diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the foreign minister, and the military leadership maintaining active contacts with relevant stakeholders to prevent further escalation.c

Trump blasts media again over queries on Iran war duration

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Trump blasts media

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump reacted strongly during a White House briefing when questioned about the possible duration of the ongoing Iran conflict.

A journalist asked how long the situation between the United States and Iran might continue. In response, Trump criticized the media, calling parts of it “fake news” and saying that ground realities are not being accurately reported.

The US president claimed that Iran has already suffered significant damage amid the ongoing tensions.

When asked about a potential ceasefire, Trump said he should not be pressured into setting timelines, adding that compared to past conflicts such as Vietnam and Iraq, his administration has only been involved in the Iran situation for a few weeks.

He rejected suggestions that the United States is under pressure to end the conflict, stating that Iran should be given space to address its internal issues.

Responding to questions on fuel prices, Trump said there could be a temporary increase, but argued that the outcome would be worth it if Iran is prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

He further claimed that despite the conflict, oil prices remain lower than expected and the stock market is performing strongly.

Aryan Khan’s fun ‘shoe-stealing’ moment at wedding goes viral

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Aryan Khan

Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan has once again grabbed social media attention, this time not for his filmmaking work but for a viral video from a wedding ceremony.

The incident took place during a friend’s wedding where Aryan Khan participated in the traditional South Asian ritual of “joota churai” (shoe-stealing), turning it into a highly entertaining and dramatic moment that amused guests.

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A video shared by the wedding organizers on Instagram shows Aryan Khan firmly holding onto the groom’s shoes, refusing to give them up despite repeated attempts by the bride’s side. At one point, he nearly loses balance but still manages to keep hold of the shoes, adding to the comedic chaos.

Dressed in jeans, a T-shirt, and a brown jacket, Aryan is seen confidently moving around while guarding the shoes, turning the light-hearted tradition into what guests jokingly called a “mini war.”

The caption of the video humorously described the moment as a “full-blown battle,” with organizers noting that when the groom’s best friend is a Bollywood personality, the shoe-stealing ritual becomes an unforgettable event.

The clip quickly went viral, with social media users reacting enthusiastically. Some expressed surprise, while others joked about the intensity of the situation, calling it more dramatic than expected. Many fans also praised Aryan Khan’s fun and energetic personality.

It is worth noting that joota churai is a traditional wedding custom in South Asia where the bride’s side hides the groom’s shoes and demands gifts or money in exchange for their return.

Aryan Khan, who recently made his directorial debut in a web series, continues to work on new projects, but this viral wedding moment has once again put him in the social media spotlight.

Pakistan, China discuss Middle East situation and peace efforts in high-level meeting

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Pakistan

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, during which discussions were held on the situation in the Middle East and Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts for peace.

The meeting in Islamabad focused on bilateral relations and regional developments. The prime minister expressed pride in Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China and said that close cooperation with Chinese leadership would continue to further strengthen ties between the two countries.

Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed good wishes for the Chinese President and Premier, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations.

The Chinese ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting lasting peace in the region and reiterated the commitment of both countries to further strengthen their longstanding friendship.

Pakistan playing key role in preventing breakdown of US-Iran talks: Report

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Pakistan playing

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir is reportedly playing a key role in efforts to prevent a complete breakdown of US-Iran negotiations and facilitate diplomatic communication between the two sides.

According to a report by Financial Times, Pakistan Armed Forces is actively engaged in behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts amid escalating tensions between Iran and United States.

The report describes Pakistan’s role in mediation as important in easing regional tensions, with Field Marshal Asim Munir viewed as playing an unconventional but central part in maintaining communication channels between the parties.

It further states that mistrust, sanctions, and military tensions have complicated the peace process. However, Pakistan is continuing efforts to keep dialogue alive and encourage diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation in the region.