United States Archives

Pezeshkian says Iran seeks peace, rejects conflict with neighbors

September 12, 2026 by World Desk

NEW DELHI: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Saturday that Iran has no disputes with Muslim or neighboring countries and accused the United States of trying to portray Iran as an enemy.

Speaking during a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in New Delhi, Pezeshkian said Iran did not have disagreements with its neighboring countries and did not want to continue the war.

He said Iran continued to prioritize peace and wanted the rights of the Iranian people to be respected, along with an end to what he described as unjust sanctions against the country.

Pezeshkian said Iran was seeking its international rights and had no conflict with Muslim or neighboring states.

“America wants to make us an enemy,” Pezeshkian said, adding that the United States, Israel and European countries wanted to prevent any country in the region from remaining independent.

In an earlier interview with Indian television, Pezeshkian said countries whose territories had been used to attack Iran would attend the BRICS summit.

He said the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened if the United States ended its blockade and aggression against Iran.

Pezeshkian also called on Washington to lift its blockade and sanctions, saying the United States had resorted to a blockade after failing to achieve its objectives through war.

He said Iran’s survival did not depend entirely on maritime routes and argued that the United States would not succeed with its blockade strategy either.

Dolly Parton Dies at 80: Her Music, Movies and Lasting Legacy

August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by Entertainment Desk

Dolly Parton dies at 80: symbolic country music memorial stage

Dolly Parton dies at 80, leaving a legacy that reaches far beyond country music. Her family and representatives confirmed that the singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist died peacefully in Nashville on August 25, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer.

News of her death produced an extraordinary wave of public interest. Google Trends recorded more than 10 million searches for “Dolly Parton” in the United States within 24 hours, with people also searching for her cause of death, songs and relationship with Miley Cyrus.

Dolly Parton dies at 80: what has been confirmed

Parton’s official website now carries a memorial marking her life from January 19, 1946, to August 25, 2026. The Associated Press and Reuters also reported the death after statements from her family and publicist.

Her team said she had faced a brief battle with cancer. A private service is planned for immediate family. Fans have been encouraged to honour her through messages and support for literacy work rather than treating unverified social-media claims as fact.

The White House ordered US flags to be flown at half-staff through sunset on September 1, reflecting the national scale of the response. Tributes have come from musicians, actors and public figures across generations.

From Tennessee to global stardom

Dolly Rebecca Parton was born in rural Tennessee and grew up in a large family with limited means. Her songwriting talent and unmistakable voice carried her to Nashville, where she built one of the longest and most successful careers in American entertainment.

Her catalogue includes “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” The last of those became a second global phenomenon through Whitney Houston’s recording, but the writing remained Parton’s — a reminder that she was as important a songwriter as she was a performer.

Her career crossed genres without losing its roots. She brought country storytelling to pop audiences, performed memorable duets and became an immediately recognisable television personality. She was inducted into major music halls of fame and earned multiple Grammy Awards over a career spanning more than six decades.

Dolly Parton’s movies and screen career

Parton also became a major film star. Her performance in the 1980 workplace comedy 9 to 5 introduced her to a wider cinema audience, while the title song became one of her signature recordings. She later appeared in films including The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Steel Magnolias.

Her screen appeal came from the same qualities audiences saw in interviews: quick humour, warmth and complete confidence in the glamorous image she created. She could be larger than life without appearing distant.

The Imagination Library may be her biggest legacy

Parton’s cultural impact cannot be measured only through sales or awards. In 1995 she launched the Imagination Library in her home county to send free books to young children. The programme expanded across the United States and internationally, delivering hundreds of millions of books.

She also supported disaster relief, education and medical research. Her philanthropy was unusually practical: it focused on getting books into homes, helping communities recover and supporting work that could improve lives.

Why Dolly Parton connected across generations

The news that Dolly Parton dies at 80 prompted millions of fans to revisit the values behind her work.

Few entertainers maintain affection across age groups, musical genres and political divisions. Parton did so by combining sharp business judgment with self-deprecating humour and a consistent message of generosity. She controlled her songs, understood the value of her public image and repeatedly used her success to support other people.

For longtime fans, her death marks the end of a singular American career. For younger listeners discovering her through streaming, films or family memories, the work remains immediately accessible.

Frequently asked questions

How old was Dolly Parton?

She was 80. She was born on January 19, 1946, and died on August 25, 2026.

What was Dolly Parton’s cause of death?

Her representatives said she died after a brief battle with cancer.

Was Dolly Parton Miley Cyrus’s godmother?

Parton was widely described as Miley Cyrus’s honorary godmother and appeared with her on television and in musical performances.

What is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library?

It is a literacy programme founded by Parton that mails free, age-appropriate books to enrolled children.

Sources: Dolly Parton’s official website, Associated Press, Reuters, White House proclamation, and Imagination Library.

Iranian Army Chief warns countries hosting US attacks

August 19, 2026 by World Desk

TEHRAN: Iran’s military has warned that countries allowing the United States to use their territory to launch attacks against Iran will have to pay a heavy price.

Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Ali Abdollahi said countries permitting the U.S. to conduct attacks against Iran from their territory should know that “nothing remains hidden from Iran.”

He said providing any form of assistance or facilities to the U.S. military would be considered participation in the war against Iran.

Abdollahi warned that countries allowing their territory to be used for U.S. attacks against Iran would face serious consequences and “pay a heavy price.”

Oil prices hit three-week high for fourth straight day

August 19, 2026 by Business Desk

WASHINGTON: Global crude oil prices rose to three-week highs for a fourth consecutive day Wednesday as uncertainty over a ceasefire between the United States and Iran and disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz continued to weigh on markets.

According to Reuters, Brent crude futures for October delivery rose 45 cents, or 0.49%, to $91.47 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude also gained 45 cents, or 0.53%, to $85.39 a barrel.

Later in the session, Brent climbed further to $91.56 a barrel, while WTI rose to about $85.53.

Investors remained focused on when commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would return to normal. Reuters reported that shipping activity through the strategic waterway remained well below normal levels, with several shipowners avoiding the route because of security risks.

The disruption has also created difficulties for Russia, while rising gasoline prices are adding to political pressure on President Donald Trump ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.

Trump has repeatedly accused oil companies of making excessive profits amid rising gasoline prices and has threatened to impose additional taxes on them. Oil companies have rejected the allegations.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, carrying more than 20% of global oil and gas supplies. Iran has closed the waterway in response to U.S. and Israeli attacks, further increasing uncertainty in global energy markets.

Iran to expand trade with Pakistan after ceasefire

August 13, 2026June 18, 2026 by World Desk

TEHRAN: Following the reported ceasefire agreement with the United States, Iran has decided to significantly expand trade with Pakistan, marking a new phase in bilateral economic relations.

According to reports, Iran’s second major trade delegation in two months visited the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), where agreements were signed for investment in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage facilities in Pakistan.

FPCCI leader Muhammad Ali Haider said the agreements were signed during a meeting at the chamber, adding that the Iranian delegation included mining investors, rice importers, and other business representatives.

He said both sides have set an ambitious target of increasing Pakistan-Iran trade to $10 billion following the stabilization of the regional situation.

Focus on Energy, Trade Expansion and Connectivity

In a separate development, discussions were held in Islamabad between the Iranian ambassador and Pakistan’s Board of Investment minister.

Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh assured cooperation with relevant ministries to resolve outstanding issues.

According to an official statement, Iran has also offered Pakistan access to Central Asian markets through its territory, while both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral trade to the agreed $10 billion target.

Both sides also agreed on measures to enhance border trade, including proposals to increase the daily number of cross-border trucks to 2,000.

The statement added that the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir was appreciated during the meetings, highlighting improved political and economic coordination between the two countries.

United States defeats Paraguay 4–1 in FIFA World Cup match

August 13, 2026June 13, 2026 by World Desk

LOS ANGELES: The United States secured a commanding 4–1 victory over Paraguay in a World Cup match played in Los Angeles on Saturday.

The U.S. took control early, leading 3–0 by halftime after a dominant first-half performance.

The opening goal came via an own goal by Paraguay’s Buba Dela, followed by a strike from American midfielder Brenden Aaronson. Just seconds before the halftime whistle, Aaronson scored again to give the U.S. a 3–0 advantage.

Giovanni Reyna added the fourth goal in the closing stages to seal the win for the Americans.

Paraguay managed to pull one goal back in the 73rd minute through Marcio, but it proved only a consolation as the United States maintained control until the final whistle.

The result gives the United States a strong start to its World Cup campaign, while Paraguay will look to regroup ahead of its next fixture.

Serious efforts underway to finalize Iran-US draft agreement, Arab media reports

May 20, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

ISLAMABAD: Intensive diplomatic efforts are underway to finalize a draft agreement between Iran and the United States, with an announcement on the completion of the final text possible in the coming days, according to Arab media reports.

The reports said a senior Pakistani official could travel to Iran on Thursday, and the visit may coincide with an announcement that the draft agreement has been completed.

Arab media also reported that the next round of negotiations is expected to be held in Islamabad after the Hajj season.

The developments come as Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi made his second trip to Tehran within 24 hours, where he held meetings with Iranian leaders on the ongoing Iran-U.S. dialogue.

During a previous visit to Tehran, Naqvi met President Masoud Pezeshkian, parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss bilateral ties and regional diplomacy.

After returning from Iran, Naqvi traveled directly to Balochistan, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir were also present.

Neither Tehran nor Washington has officially confirmed the reported timeline for finalizing the agreement.

US-Iran talks likely to start in Islamabad next week: report

August 13, 2026May 9, 2026 by World Desk

Islamabad: Negotiations between the United States and Iran are expected to resume in Islamabad next week, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the newspaper reported that both sides are working with mediators to finalize a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU).

The one-page document is intended to establish a one-month framework for negotiations aimed at paving the way for an end to the ongoing conflict.

According to the report, the draft covers key issues including Iran’s nuclear programme, efforts to reduce tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and the possible transfer of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles to a third country.

However, several major issues remain unresolved.

The report said the scope and extent of sanctions relief continue to be a central point of disagreement and could pose a significant obstacle to reaching an agreement.

The Wall Street Journal added that if substantial progress is made, both parties may agree to extend the initial one-month negotiation period.

The first round of talks between the United States and Iran was held in Islamabad on April 11, where delegations from both countries engaged in approximately 21 hours of discussions.

The meeting concluded without a formal agreement, but officials described the dialogue as an important step toward continued diplomatic engagement.

US–Iran talks in Islamabad likely to continue on Sunday: reports

April 11, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

Islamabad: Ongoing negotiations between United States and Iran in Islamabad are expected to continue tonight and possibly into Sunday, according to media reports.

Citing Pakistani sources, CNN reported that discussions between the two sides may extend beyond the initially planned schedule.

Pakistan is playing a key mediatory role in facilitating the talks, providing a platform for dialogue between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said that tensions between the US and Iran span over 47 years, and such complex issues cannot be resolved in just a few hours of meetings.

He noted that both sides are in continuous contact with their respective leaderships and will consult before finalizing any agreements.

Tarar added that while the talks were initially expected to conclude in a day, the positive momentum could lead to an extension of negotiations into the following day.

Senior Iranian official Ali Larijani reportedly killed in attack

March 18, 2026 by Pakistan Desk

Tehran : Iranian media has reported that Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was killed in an alleged attack attributed to the United States and Israel.

According to official Iranian sources, Larijani’s death has been confirmed, with reports also stating that his son, Morteza Larijani, was killed in the same incident.

State affiliated media outlets claim that the attack took place in eastern Tehran, where Larijani had reportedly been visiting his daughter at the time.

A statement shared on Larijani’s official social media account expressed the news in religious terms, saying: “A servant of God has returned to God.” The message further addressed the Iranian people, Muslims worldwide, and “free people of the world,” announcing that “one of God’s servants has been martyred.”

بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم

ملت عزیز و سربلند ایران!
الشعوب المسلمة وأحرار العالم:
«بنده‌ی خدا، به خدا پیوست.»
لقد لحق عبدٌ من عباد الله بربّه شهيدًا. pic.twitter.com/G1kZUqbg1L
— Ali Larijani | علی لاریجانی (@alilarijani_ir) March 17, 2026

There has been no immediate confirmation or response from U.S. or Israeli officials regarding these claims.

Further details have emerged following reports of the death of Ali Larijani, a senior Iranian official, who was allegedly targeted in a strike claimed by Israel.

Prior to the reported attack, a handwritten message was shared on Larijani’s social media account, paying tribute to those martyred. Iranian sources later confirmed his death, describing it as a significant loss to the country’s leadership.

The Israeli military had earlier claimed responsibility for targeting Larijani at a location in Tehran, stating that Gholam Reza Soleimani, commander of Iran’s Basij internal security force, was also killed in the same strike.

Experts warn that the development could have serious implications for regional stability. Sultan Barakat, Senior Professor of Public Policy at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, said Larijani’s death is likely to make diplomatic efforts to resolve ongoing tensions more difficult and prolonged.

According to Barakat, the incident may strengthen hardline elements within Iran’s political system, pushing the prospect of a negotiated settlement further out of reach.

Biography of Ali Larijani

Ali Larijani was born in Najaf and rose to prominence after joining Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Over the decades, he became one of the most influential figures in Iran’s political, legislative, and foreign policy spheres.

At 67, Larijani was considered a key figure in post-revolution Iranian politics and a member of a powerful religious and political family. He maintained close ties with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, and was regarded as a trusted advisor on security matters.

Larijani also played a significant role during the Iran–Iraq War and held multiple high-ranking government positions. He served as Speaker of the Iranian Parliament (Majlis) for 12 years and was previously Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator.

Known for his conservative yet relatively pragmatic stance, Larijani remained an influential figure in Iran’s domestic and international policymaking until his reported death.