BREAKING NEWS
US-Iran talks second round reportedly expected in Pakistan, claims US media • Shaheen Bhatt announces engagement to Ishaan Mehra • Iran signals naval readiness as tensions rise with US over maritime restrictions • Field Marshal Asim Munir concludes 3-day official visit to Iran • HIV cases surge in Islamabad, raising public health concerns • Pakistan stocks rally as KSE-100 posts strong weekly gains amid improved sentiment • Iran restores tight control over Strait of Hormuz, blames US blockade • PSL 11 points table heats up after 26 matches as playoff race intensifies • Moeen Ali explains why he chose PSL over IPL • US President Trump hints at ‘surprise’ on Iran deal • Shah Rukh Khan reacts to academy clip, says he feels like king • Few issues remain in US-Iran talks, Says Ishaq Dar at Antalya Forum • US–Iran talks continue on 3-page plan to end conflict • Pakistani film “Psycho” set for worldwide release on Eid-ul-Adha 2026 • Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Love & War’ set for January 2027 release
Advertise with us >

Newsdesk

Punjab forms 12 JITs to probe banned TLP cases

by
Punjab forms

LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has constituted 12 Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) to probe cases registered against the banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

According to the Home Department notification, 7 JITs will investigate cases in Lahore while 5 will handle cases in Sheikhupura.

The JITs are tasked with investigating cases under anti-terrorism and other serious provisions of the law. Each team will include representatives from the police, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and intelligence agencies to ensure thorough investigation.

The formation of these JITs followed a request from the Punjab Police to expedite investigations.

Police sources stated that over 75 cases have been registered against the banned TLP, with more than 2,000 individuals named in these cases already arrested.

Authorities emphasized that the move aims to strengthen law enforcement efforts and ensure accountability in cases involving extremist activities.

President Trump designates Saudi Arabia as major non-NATO ally

by
President Trump

US President Donald Trump has designated Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, marking a significant expansion in bilateral strategic cooperation.

President Trump hosted a dinner at the White House in honour of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. High-profile guests, including Elon Musk and Cristiano Ronaldo, also attended the event.

The US President approved a major defence package under which Saudi Arabia will purchase F-35 fighter jets and 300 tanks from the United States.

Welcoming the Crown Prince, President Trump said Saudi Arabia and the United States share a long-standing and historic partnership, which both sides are committed to further strengthening. He said the two countries had signed a strategic defence agreement during the visit.

President Trump added that the Middle East was closer than ever to achieving lasting peace, claiming that Gaza was now “far safer than before.” He said several heads of state would be part of the upcoming “Gaza Board of Peace.”

He also stated that Hamas had handed over additional bodies of hostages to Israeli families.

Following Trump’s remarks, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman thanked the US President for the warm hospitality and said Riyadh greatly values its relationship with Washington.

The Crown Prince is currently on an official visit to the United States, during which he held talks with President Trump at the White House.

A statement issued later by the White House said that Washington and Riyadh had reached an agreement on a civil nuclear cooperation framework.

According to the statement, President Trump has approved a major arms package for Saudi Arabia, which includes the supply of advanced F-35 fighter aircraft, while the Kingdom will also acquire nearly 300 tanks from the US.

Video of Ex-Pakistan Captain Younis Khan singing goes viral

by
Younis Khan

KARACHI: A clip of former Pakistan captain Younis Khan showcasing his singing skills has taken social media by storm.

The clip, shared by former fast bowler Umar Gul, shows Younis Khan singing the Bollywood song “Mere Dost Qissa Yeh Kya Ho Gaya, Suna Hai Ke Tu Bewafa Ho Gaya.”

During the performance, Younis Khan amusingly sang one of the lines incorrectly, prompting laughter from both himself and those listening.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Umar Gul (@umargulofficial)

Currently, several former national cricketers are in Houston for a league event, where Younis Khan showcased his vocal skills during a team dinner.

Fans and attendees praised Younis Khan’s singing talent, with the video receiving widespread appreciation online.

Punjab suggests screening teachers, staff via Sex Offenders Register

by
Punjab suggests

LAHORE: A proposal has been put forward to make the screening of employees’ sexual offence records mandatory before their recruitment in educational institutions.

According to a two-page letter sent by the Punjab Prosecutor General to the Secretary Prosecution, it has been recommended that all candidates applying for jobs in educational institutions must be verified through the NADRA Sex Offenders Register.

The Prosecutor General stated in the letter that reviewing the sex offender record at the time of hiring is essential, adding that the NADRA Sex Offenders Register is an effective tool for ensuring the safety of children in educational environments. He said a major gap exists in the current hiring system concerning child protection.

The letter further noted that existing background checks do not reveal an applicant’s past sexual crime history, and hiring individuals with a record of sexual offences could pose a serious threat to entire educational institutions. It urged the Law and Justice Department to develop a mechanism to grant access to the Sex Offenders Register.

The Prosecutor General requested that sex offender verification be made compulsory for all educational institutions and that current employees also be checked against the NADRA register. He said such a policy would significantly enhance child safety standards across the education sector.

PM set to inaugurate Karachi Cantt Station’s upgradation project

by
PM set

KARACHI : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Karachi on Monday for a one-day visit. He landed at Faisal Base, where Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, the Chief Secretary, and Sindh IG welcomed him.

During his visit, the Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the upgraded Karachi Cantt Railway Station, which has been modernized to provide improved facilities for passengers.

The renovated station now features CIP lounges, enhanced waiting areas, and escalators for the convenience of travelers. Additional amenities include executive washrooms, ATM machines, and free Wi-Fi services, aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and accessibility.

This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to modernize Pakistan Railways and improve infrastructure at key transit points.

Sheikh Hasina convicted of crimes against humanity by Bangladesh Tribunal

by
Sheikh Hasina

Dhaka: Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has declared former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed guilty of crimes against humanity. The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Muhammad Golam Mortuza, announced the verdict on cases filed against the former premier.

According to international news agencies, Sheikh Hasina faced charges related to crimes against humanity, with the prosecution seeking the death penalty. During the announcement of the verdict, tight security measures were implemented across the country.

The charges stem from the 2024 crackdown on student movements, which allegedly involved widespread violence and mass killings. United Nations data indicate that approximately 1,400 people were killed during the protests that year.

The ruling marks a significant development in Bangladesh’s judicial proceedings concerning allegations of state-led violence and crimes against civilians.

Pakistani sufi singer Sanam Marvi reveals concert fee

by
Pakistani sufi Singer

Renowned Pakistani folk and Sufi singer Sanam Marvi recently disclosed that she charges up to Rs 2.5 million for a single concert.

She made the revelation during an appearance on a private TV program, where she also spoke about her career journey and personal life struggles.

Sanam Marvi shared that she began working at a very young age to support her siblings, as her family faced financial hardships. She recounted that her family moved to Hyderabad when she was four years old.

Reflecting on her early career, she revealed that her first payment was Rs 27,000—a significant sum at the time. With that money, she purchased essential household items such as a fridge, TV, and bed for her mother, marking an important milestone for her family.

Sanam Marvi further explained that she now performs at concerts and wedding events, earning fees that could even afford her a new Alto car per performance.

Her disclosure highlights both her journey from humble beginnings and her current success as one of Pakistan’s leading folk singers.

Lahore emerges as the world’s most polluted city

by
Lahore emerges

LAHORE: The Air quality in Lahore remains critically poor, placing the city at the top of global pollution rankings.

According to environmental monitoring websites, Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 484, surpassing New Delhi, which recorded an AQI of 289.

Within Lahore, Wahga emerged as the most polluted area, registering an alarming AQI of 814. Other areas also recorded hazardous levels, including DHA at 768, Civil Secretariat at 695, and FC College at 686.

Additional areas affected include Allama Iqbal Town with an AQI of 678, Ravi Road at 667, and DHA Phase 8 at 615, highlighting the widespread air pollution across the city.

Other major cities in Punjab, including Gujranwala, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan, have also been listed among the most polluted urban centers in the country, reflecting a growing environmental and public health concern.

Authorities and environmental experts urge residents to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the health risks associated with hazardous air pollution.

Multiple deaths reported as bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims collides with Oil Tanker

by
Multiple deaths

Madina: A tragic accident occurred on Monday morning when a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims collided with an oil tanker while traveling from Mecca to Madina, resulting in multiple fatalities, according to Arab media reports.

The bus, carrying 42 passengers from Hyderabad in the Indian state of Telangana, included women and children.

Following the collision, both vehicles caught fire, raising serious concerns about casualties. Saudi authorities are reportedly conducting rescue and emergency operations at the site.

Indian politician Asaduddin Owaisi, speaking to the media, stated that preliminary information suggests 41 passengers may have lost their lives in the accident. However, Saudi officials have not yet released an official statement regarding the death toll.

Authorities continue rescue operations, and further details regarding the incident and casualties are awaited.

Pakistan Shaheens dominate India as Maaz shines with bat and ball

by
Pakistan Shaheens

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Shaheens continued their dominant form in the Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, registering a commanding eight-wicket victory over India A in their second Group B fixture at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha.

All-rounder Maaz Sadaqat led the way for Shaheens with a brilliant unbeaten 79 off 31 balls and impressive bowling figures of 2-12 in three overs, earning his successive Player of the Match award. The left-handed opener’s innings featured seven fours and four sixes, while he also contributed with his left-arm spin, taking two crucial wickets including a wicket-maiden over.

Maaz put on a blazing 55-run opening partnership with Mohammad Naeem (14, 10b, 1×4, 1×6), giving Pakistan a rapid start in the Powerplay. His aggressive approach included a 20-run seventh over, featuring two sixes off Naman Dhir, as Shaheens inched closer to their target of 137 with the required run rate dropping below five.

The young Peshawar-born batter’s dominance ensured Pakistan reached 137-2 in just 13.2 overs, losing only Yasir Khan among the top order. Mohammad Faiq (16 not out, 14b, 1×4, 1×6) remained unbeaten alongside Maaz, finishing the match with a six and helping Pakistan Shaheens remain unbeaten in the tournament so far, with their last group fixture against UAE scheduled for Tuesday.

Earlier, India A were restricted to 136 all out in 19 overs, thanks to disciplined bowling from Shahid Aziz (3-24), Maaz Sadaqat (2-12), and Saad Masood (2-31). Despite a strong start, India A collapsed from 91-2 to 136 all out, with key wickets falling to Sufyan, Shahid Aziz, Maaz, and Saad Masood. Top scorers Vaibhav Suryavanshi (45, 28b, 5×4s, 3×6s) and Naman Dhir (35, 20b, 6×4s, 1×6) could not convert their starts, as Pakistan’s bowlers kept the pressure consistent.

Following the win, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi called the victory a “proud moment for the nation” and lauded the Shaheens’ fearless and dominant performance. He also congratulated the team on their clean sweep against Sri Lanka in the recent ODI series, praising the players, coaches, and management for their dedication and commitment.

Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori and Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah also extended their congratulations to the team, recognizing their stellar performances and contribution to Pakistan cricket.

Scores in brief:

India A: 136 all out, 19 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 45, Naman Dhir 35; Shahid Aziz 3-24, Maaz Sadaqat 2-12, Saad Masood 2-31)

Pakistan Shaheens: 137-2, 13.2 overs (Maaz Sadaqat 79 not out)

This victory keeps Pakistan Shaheens unbeaten and firmly in contention for the Rising Star Asia Cup 2025 semi-finals.