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World Desk

Future Soch World Desk covers international politics, conflicts, markets, diplomacy and global developments with context for Pakistani readers.

Iran confirms participation in FIFA World Cup 2026

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Iran confirms

TEHRAN: Iran has officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite earlier political tensions surrounding the tournament.

According to the Iranian Ministry of Sports, the national football team is fully prepared to take part in the global event, which is scheduled to begin on June 11.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani also confirmed that all necessary arrangements for participation have been completed.

The announcement comes after comments from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had previously stated that Iran would be part of the tournament.

Iran has already qualified for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The team’s matches are currently scheduled to be played in the United States.

Under the group stage fixtures, Iran is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 27.

Earlier reports suggested that the Iranian Football Federation had considered requesting FIFA to relocate its matches to Mexico due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel. However, no final decision on venue changes has been confirmed.

The participation had also drawn political commentary, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier suggested Iran’s participation in the U.S. might be inappropriate under current conditions. Iran, however, maintained that no country could exclude its national team from the tournament.

Despite tensions, both sporting authorities and political figures have now indicated that Iran will take part in the global football event as planned.

Usman Khan breaks record for most centuries in PSL history

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Usman Khan

KARACHI: Hyderabad Kingsmen batter Usman Khan has made history in the Pakistan Super League by becoming the player with the most centuries in the tournament’s history.

The milestone came during a PSL 11 match against Multan Sultans, where Usman Khan played a heroic innings of 101 runs off just 47 balls while chasing a target of 214 runs.

This century marks his fourth in the PSL, taking him to the top of the all-time list for most hundreds in the league.

Usman Khan has featured in 33 PSL matches, having previously scored one century in 2023 and two in 2024 before achieving this latest feat.

Powered by his match-winning knock, Hyderabad Kingsmen successfully chased down the 214-run target with three balls to spare, securing a memorable victory.

Survey: 36% Europeans view US as greater threat than China

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Survey

BRUSSELS: A new survey has revealed that 36% of Europeans consider the United States a bigger threat than China, amid criticism of anti-Europe statements by US President Donald Trump.

The poll, conducted across six European countries including Germany, found that 36% of respondents identified the US as a threat, compared to 29% who viewed China as a greater concern.

According to the “EuroPulse” survey, the perception was particularly strong in Spain, where 51% of respondents considered the US a threat. Similar views were recorded in Italy (46%), Belgium (42%), and Germany (30%).

In France, 37% of participants saw the US as a threat, while a higher 43% viewed China in that light.

Meanwhile, in Poland, only 13% of respondents identified the US as a threat, compared to 37% who pointed to China.

The findings highlight shifting geopolitical perceptions in Europe amid evolving global political dynamics.

Trump claims Iran halted execution of 8 women after his appeal

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Trump claims

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has halted the execution of eight women following his request, according to a statement shared on his social media platform.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had been informed that the eight women, who were reportedly scheduled to be executed, would no longer face the death penalty.

He added that four of the women would be released immediately, while the remaining four would be freed after serving one month in detention.

Trump expressed appreciation toward the Iranian leadership for, as he stated, respecting his appeal and deciding to stop the executions.

It is noteworthy that a day earlier, Trump had shared images of the women on social media and called for their release, urging Iranian authorities to ensure their safety and describing their act as a positive step toward upcoming negotiations.

However, according to U.S. media reports, the detention of these eight women in Iran could not be independently verified. Meanwhile, Iran’s judiciary has denied reports that eight women were sentenced to death.

A statement from Iranian judicial authorities, cited by international media, said the U.S. president had once again been misled by “fake news,” adding that some of the women mentioned had already been released, while others if convicted would face imprisonment rather than capital punishment.

Steve Smith enjoying PSL stint with Multan Sultans

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Steve Smith

KARACHI: Steve Smith has described his time with Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League as a “great experience,” saying he is thoroughly enjoying his stint in the tournament.

Speaking after Multan Sultans’ six-wicket victory over Rawalpindi in PSL 11, Smith said the past month with the franchise has been excellent and the team has played impressive cricket.

In the match, Rawalpindi posted 166 for 4 in their 20 overs. In reply, Multan Sultans comfortably chased down the target in 18.4 overs for the loss of four wickets, thanks to Smith’s half-century.

Addressing a post-match press conference, Smith highlighted his role as an opener, stating that the position suits his style of play as it allows him more opportunities during the powerplay.

He also praised the PSL as a highly competitive and quality league, noting that every team features strong players, making the competition intense.

Commenting on young players in the Multan Sultans squad, Smith said in a light-hearted manner, “I am learning from the youngsters; they are teaching me everything,” while adding that he is always available to offer guidance if needed.

Smith further said that the team’s goal is to perform strongly in the remaining matches and secure a place in the top two of the points table.

He also appreciated the hospitality in Pakistan and the team environment at Multan Sultans, though he noted that larger crowd turnout would enhance the overall atmosphere.

Multan Sultans beat Rawalpindiz by six wickets in PSL 11 clash

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Multan Sultans

KARACHI: Pakistan Super League Season 11 saw Multan Sultans register a convincing six-wicket victory over Rawalpindiz, securing two crucial points and moving up to second place on the points table.

In the match played in Karachi, Rawalpindiz won the toss and opted to bat first, posting 166 for 4 in their allotted 20 overs.

For Rawalpindiz, Daryl Mitchell top-scored with an unbeaten 58, while Sam Billings contributed 29 runs. Captain Mohammad Rizwan added 26 to the total.

In reply, Multan Sultans comfortably chased down the target in 18.4 overs for the loss of four wickets, thanks to a brilliant half-century by Steve Smith.

Smith remained the top scorer with 56 runs, while Ashton Turner played a solid unbeaten knock of 37 to guide his team home.

With this win, Multan Sultans climbed to second position on the points table with 12 points from eight matches. Meanwhile, Peshawar Zalmi lead the standings with 15 points from eight games.

JD Vance visit to Pakistan postponed as Iran talks remain unclear

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JD Vance

ISLAMABAD: The planned visit of US Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for the second round of Iran-US negotiations has been postponed, according to American media reports.

Sources said the delay comes after Iran did not respond regarding participation in the upcoming talks. However, US officials familiar with the matter indicated that the visit could be rescheduled at any time.

Meanwhile, Minister for Information Atta Tarar stated that the ongoing Iran-US ceasefire is set to expire at 4:50 AM (Pakistan time) on April 22.

According to reports, the two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States is nearing its end, with uncertainty still surrounding the next steps from both sides.

US media further reported that negotiations could resume at any moment, although President Donald Trump has indicated he is not in favor of extending the ceasefire without a long-term agreement.

On the other hand, Iran has stated that no decision has yet been made regarding sending a delegation to Islamabad for talks. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that participation in the negotiations would depend on whether they prove meaningful and productive.

He also strongly criticized US actions against Iranian vessels, calling them a serious violation of international law, “maritime piracy,” and “state terrorism.” He added that such actions further deepen Iran’s distrust of the United States and raise serious questions about Washington’s intentions.

Powerful earthquake triggers tsunami warning in northern Japan

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Powerful earthquake

Tokyo: A strong earthquake struck northern Japan, prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning for several coastal regions.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency and the United States Geological Survey, the quake—measuring between 7.4 and 7.7 in magnitude hit northeastern coastal areas including Hokkaido and Aomori.

Following the tremor, authorities warned of possible tsunami waves reaching up to 3 meters along parts of northeastern Japan. However, initial wave heights have remained below the projected levels so far.

Tsunami waves measuring 0.8 meters were recorded at Kuji Port, while waves of 0.4 meters hit Miyako Port. Officials cautioned that sea levels could continue to rise.

The Japanese government has ordered the evacuation of more than 171,000 residents across five regions as a precautionary measure.

Authorities have also warned of potential aftershocks in the coming days, including the risk of another major earthquake exceeding magnitude 8.0.

So far, no casualties or major damage have been reported, although power outages have been observed in some affected areas.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents in coastal zones to remain alert and follow evacuation advisories.

PCB bans Dasun Shanaka for one year over PSL contract breach

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PCB Bans Dasun

Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board has imposed a one-year ban on Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka from participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after he was found in violation of his contractual obligations.

According to the PCB, Shanaka, who was signed by Lahore Qalandars for PSL 11, withdrew from the tournament, breaching the terms of his agreement. As a result, he has been declared ineligible to participate in PSL 12.

The board stated that strict action was taken to uphold league regulations, emphasizing that Shanaka’s withdrawal constituted a clear violation of contractual rules. Maintaining the integrity and standards of the PSL remains a top priority, the PCB added.

In response, Shanaka expressed regret over his decision, offering a heartfelt apology to fans in Pakistan and the wider cricket community.

He acknowledged that the PSL is a prestigious tournament and admitted that his withdrawal had caused disappointment, particularly among Lahore Qalandars supporters.

Shanaka clarified that at the time of his withdrawal, he had no intention of joining any other tournament.

He also reiterated his respect for Pakistani fans and said he hopes to return to the PSL in the future with renewed commitment and trust.

US President Trump criticizes Obama-era Iran deal

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US President Trump

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has strongly criticized the Iran nuclear deal negotiated during the tenure of Barack Obama, calling it “one of the worst agreements ever made.”

Trump said the new deal his administration is working on with Iran would be “far better” than those pursued during the Obama and Joe Biden administrations.

He claimed that had he not withdrawn from the earlier agreement, Iran could have developed nuclear weapons that might be used against Israel and other countries in the region.

“The previous deal was a pathway to nuclear weapons this will not happen again,” Trump stated, adding that under the proposed agreement, Iran would not be allowed to possess nuclear weapons.

He also alleged that the Obama administration had sent $1.7 billion in cash to Iran via aircraft, claiming that even bankers were surprised by the withdrawal of such funds from banks in Washington, D.C., and Maryland.

Trump criticized sections of the media, including The Washington Post, accusing them of supporting what he described as a “shameful” agreement.

The US president asserted that a deal finalized under his leadership would guarantee peace for Israel, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, adding that “the era of embarrassment is over.”

He emphasized that the negotiations with Iran are not being conducted under any pressure and expressed confidence that a successful agreement would ensure peace and stability in the region.