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World News / International

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.

No hardliners or moderates in Iran, nation united: President Pezeshkian

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No hardliners

Tehran: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has rejected the notion of internal divisions within Iran, stating that there are neither hardliners nor moderates in the country.

Speaking on the issue, the president said that all citizens identify themselves as “Iranian” and “revolutionary,” emphasizing a unified national identity.

Pezeshkian stressed that the Iranian nation and government stand in “iron unity,” warning that any aggressor would be made to regret their actions.

He further stated that this unity represents the path to victory for Iran, adding that the country’s chosen path is more valuable than life itself.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump said that Iran is facing serious difficulties in selecting its leadership, adding that there are deep divisions between hardliners and so-called moderates within the country.

Trump claimed that hardline elements are “failing badly on the battlefield,” while so-called moderates whom he said are not truly moderate are gaining public acceptance.

He further stated that the United States has full control over the Strait of Hormuz, adding that no vessel can enter or exit without approval from the US Navy.

He also claimed that the Strait has been effectively shut down and said a strict blockade would remain in place until Iran agrees to a deal.

Trump approval slips amid inflation and Iran conflict, Poll reveals

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Trump approval slips

Washington: Rising petrol prices and the impact of the Iran conflict have contributed to growing public dissatisfaction with U.S. President Donald Trump, according to a new Associated Press survey.

The survey indicates that the share of Americans expressing distrust in Trump’s economic policies has risen sharply by 9 percent to 70 percent. It also shows that his overall approval rating has declined from 36 percent to 33 percent.

According to the findings, 67 percent of respondents said they are dissatisfied with the president’s performance.

Political analysts cited in the report suggest that the decline in popularity is linked to concerns over rising domestic economic pressures and a perceived lack of focus on internal issues amid international tensions.

Iran defeats Pakistan in Kabaddi at Asian Beach Games

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Iran defeats

Sanya: In the ongoing Asian Beach Games in China’s city of Sanya, Iran defeated Pakistan national kabaddi team in a competitive match.

Iran secured a 38–28 victory over Pakistan in the kabaddi contest, delivering a strong performance throughout the game.

Meanwhile, in the aquathlon events, Pakistan’s Hamza Asif finished 28th in the men’s final, which featured 31 athletes. He recorded a personal best time of 37.26 minutes.

In the women’s aquathlon final, Pakistan’s Ayesha Waqas secured 25th position among 27 competitors, also achieving a personal best with a time of 56.32 minutes.

The Asian Beach Games continue to feature multiple sporting events with athletes from across the continent competing for top positions.

Khushdil Shah’s explosive finish powers Karachi Kings to 5-wicket win

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Khushdil Shah

LAHORE: Karachi Kings secured a thrilling 5-wicket victory over Lahore Qalandars in the 35th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11, thanks to a blistering unbeaten innings by Khushdil Shah.

At Gaddafi Stadium, Karachi Kings won the toss and opted to field first. Lahore Qalandars posted a strong total of 199/6 in 20 overs, with Abdullah Shafique scoring 62 and Fakhar Zaman adding 61 runs.

For Karachi Kings, Moeen Ali took two wickets, while Hassan Ali and Rizwanullah picked up one wicket each.

In response, Karachi Kings chased down the target in 18.4 overs, losing five wickets along the way. Early contributions came from Jason Roy (9), Raza Hendricks (10), and Salman Ali Agha (14), while Moeen Ali scored 39 off 17 balls and Azam Khan made 14.

The turning point came in the final overs when Khushdil Shah launched a fierce counterattack, smashing 23 runs in Shaheen Afridi’s over and 14 runs off just four deliveries against Haris Rauf in the next over. He remained unbeaten on 44 runs off just 14 balls, hitting 5 sixes and 2 fours, guiding his team to victory with eight balls to spare.

Captain David Warner also remained unbeaten with a solid 63-run innings.

With this win, Karachi Kings have strengthened their position in the PSL playoff race alongside Lahore and Hyderabad.

President Trump hints at second round of Iran talks on Friday

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President Trump

WASHINGTON: The second round of talks between the United States and Iran is expected to take place on Friday, with U.S. President Donald Trump expressing optimism and forecasting potential “good news” from the negotiations.

In remarks to American media, Donald Trump said the United States is simultaneously advancing diplomatic efforts while keeping its military on high alert to respond to any possible developments.

He stated that the next phase of negotiations is expected to bring significant progress, which could serve as an important step toward easing tensions in the region.

Trump also suggested that recent developments include a temporary pause in potential military action against Iran, following requests and diplomatic engagement from Pakistan’s leadership.

According to his statement, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly urged restraint and advised continued diplomatic engagement until mutually agreed proposals from Iran are presented.

He added that the ceasefire arrangement would remain in place until the completion of the negotiation process and clear progress is seen on Iranian proposals.

Analysts believe Pakistan’s diplomatic role has been significant in easing tensions, while the coming days may prove crucial for regional stability and peace efforts.

Young batter Sameer Minhas eyes consistent performances

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Young batter Samir

KARACHI: Islamabad United young batter Sameer Minhasr has said his primary goal is to make the most of every opportunity and play impactful innings for his team in the Pakistan Super League.

Speaking in an interview, the emerging cricketer said that the PSL is widely regarded as a strong platform for young players to showcase their talent and build recognition at the national level.

Sameer Minhas , who has previously represented Pakistan at the Under-19 level, said he is determined to fully utilise his chances in the league and continue improving his game.

He expressed satisfaction over his team’s overall performance, noting that Islamabad United is playing good cricket with several players delivering strong performances.

Highlighting his personal approach, he said his focus remains simple: to perform whenever given the opportunity and contribute with meaningful innings for the team.

The youngster also described playing alongside senior cricketers as a valuable learning experience, saying the dressing room environment helps improve game awareness and skills through continuous interaction and guidance.

Reflecting on his Under-19 days, Sameer said team success was always his priority, recalling their Asia Cup victory as a memorable achievement.

He added that his long-term ambition is to represent Pakistan at the international level and help the national team achieve success, while continuing to work hard and maintain consistent performances in the PSL.

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.