Ismail Haniyeh assassination
Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, was shockingly assassinated early on Wednesday in Tehran, leaving the Middle East in the dark and raising the possibility of a regional conflict. There is little doubt as to who is behind this heinous provocation, even though Israel has not taken ownership of it. In the center of the so-called “axis of resistance,” Israel has struck one of Iran’s closest supporters. Regarding the Haniyeh murder, the supreme leader of Iran, who has the last word on all significant policy matters, declared that it is “our duty to avenge his blood”. Naturally, the chances of a truce seem to have been permanently destroyed by the Haniyeh assassination.
Source:The Patriot
August 02, 2024 07:57 UTC
Israeli threat to regional, global peace and security
It is another symbol of Israeli aggression to the loss of regional and global peace. Although there is no state posing a significant threat to Israel, it has been pursuing aggressive policies toward all regional states, including the defenseless people of Palestine. Israel has been a threat to the international system and global peace and security since its establishment in the wake of World War II. Knowing this reality, many Jews, especially those living in the United States, refuse the aggressive and expansionist Israeli policies against the Palestinians. The numbers prove that Israel poses a threat to the global system.
Source:The Patriot
August 02, 2024 07:57 UTC
Four Florida State players earn spots on All-ACC preseason team
Florida State saw four players selected to the All-ACC preseason team on Thursday, with offensive tackle Darius Washington, center Maurice Smith, defensive tackle Joshua Farmer and punter Alex Mastromanno all earning spots by way of media vote. Florida State, who was voted to repeat as conference champion, had four selections last season as well. The full release from Florida State:TALLAHASSEE – Four Florida State football players were named to the preseason All-ACC team Thursday after a vote of attending media at last week’s ACC Kickoff. Behind Mastromanno, Florida State ranked third nationally in net punting average, with 26 punts inside the 20-yard line and just three touchdbacks. Florida State, the defending ACC Champions, will open the season August 24 at 12:00 p.m.
Source:The Nation
August 02, 2024 04:16 UTC
Pakistan to repay $24.8b in FY2024-25
Pakistan’s central bank announced on Wednesday that the country will repay a total of $24.8 billion in foreign debt and interest payments for the fiscal year 2024-25. On Monday, the central bank had estimated repayments at $26.2 billion, including $4 billion in interest. The detailed breakdown reveals that Pakistan was scheduled to repay nearly $5 billion in July alone, including $437 million in interest. Despite these notable payments, the country’s foreign exchange reserves decreased by only $400 million in the week ending July 19, marking a rare drop in the past month. Additionally, the anticipated approval of the IMF loan programme would unlock further multilateral and bilateral inflows, helping the country meet its foreign debt obligations on time.
Source:The Express Tribune
August 01, 2024 20:40 UTC
Israel and Pakistan are fake, artificial countries By Justice Katju (8th Part)
Israel and Pakistan are fake, artificial countriesBy Justice KatjuSince some people called me ‘controversial’ because many of my ideas were strange and novel, and many offensive to a large number of people ( e.g. As mentioned in the title, I regard Israel and Pakistan as having this in common : both are fake, artificial countries, and will not last forever. Also, it will infuriate many Pakistanis as I have lumped together these two countries, when most Pakistanis are totally hostile to Israel. Before creation of Israel in 1948, 90% people living in the present territory of Israel were Arabs. Without military help from USA and other Western countries, Israel cannot survive for more than a few days.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 20:13 UTC
Nation to observe day of mourning on Friday to show solidarity with Palestinians
- Advertisement -ISLAMABAD, Aug 1 (APP): The government allied parties on Thursday decided that the nation would observe a day of mourning across the country on August 2 (Friday) in solidarity with the Palestinian brothers and sisters and to condemn the Israeli state-sponsored terrorism in Palestine. The participants of the meeting strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli brutalities in Palestine for last nine months, and expressed full solidarity with the Palestinian brothers and sisters. They were of the view that the Hamas leader’s assassination incident was a conspiracy to sabotage the efforts to get stopped the ongoing Israeli atrocities on the Palestinians and establish peace in the region. The prime minister termed the ongoing Israeli state-sponsored terrorism in Palestine a tragedy for the Muslim Ummah. Leaders and senior representatives of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Pakistan Muslim League-Q, Pakistan Muslim League Zia and National Party attended the meeting.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 18:47 UTC
PTI should shun politics of vandalism, apologize to nation if wants to join mainstream: Ahsan Iqbal
In an interview with Voice of America (VOA), he said no democracy in the world could support a party that engaged in destructive politics and undermined national interests for political gain. When asked about the possibility of banning PTI, the minister mentioned that recent information suggested PTI’s social media had connections with anti-state elements abroad. Ahsan Iqbal said the PTI was banned or not, but it was evident that the party’s politics were a ‘direct attack’ on national interests. He added that some political parties were also trying to exploit the current situation while the country was recovering economically. In response to another question, the minister said Pakistan wanted to strengthen trade relations with all friendly countries, as the country’s economic future depended significantly on increasing exports.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 17:46 UTC
New Interpretations
The ruling Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) is determined not to go down without a fight. Despite the decision of the apex court on the reserved seats verdict, the PML-N is adamant about having its say. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the Election Act (Amendment) Bill 2024 in the National Assembly, proposing amendments to the election law. The bill suggests that a political party should not be allocated seats reserved for women and non-Muslim candidates if it fails to submit its list for the reserved seats within the prescribed time. However, with the PML-N determined to see this through, we should not expect them to give these considerations much weight.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 15:47 UTC
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro challenges Elon Musk to fight; Musk responds with gladiator meme
In a surprising turn of events, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has challenged Tesla CEO Elon Musk to a fight, which Musk accepted. Musk responded to the video with, "I accept," and further engaged with another user suggesting a cage fight, reminiscent of the much-publicized but unrealized Musk vs. Zuckerberg bout. I accept — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 31, 2024I’m coming for you Maduro! Adding to the international dimension, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Maduro on what has been described as a rigged election win. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has accused Maduro and 14 current and former Venezuelan officials of narco-terrorism, corruption, and drug trafficking.
Source:The Express Tribune
August 01, 2024 14:01 UTC
Live Nation Arabia to manage AlUla’s Maraya Hall
RIYADH: Concert promotor Live Nation Arabia will manage operations at Maraya Hall in AlUla after a deal was struck with the company responsible for boosing tourism in the area. The Public Investment Fund-backed AlUla Development Co. signed a three-year partnership agreement with the entertainment firm, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The deal will enhance Maraya Hall’s position as a major complex that hosts various events, including concerts, cultural performances, exhibitions, and conferences, according to the report. This falls in line with AlUla Development Co.’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the cultural and natural heritage of the governorate. Fabien Toscano, the CEO of AlUla Development Co., said: “We are delighted to partner with Live Nation Arabia to unleash Maraya’s full potential as a hub for world-class entertainment and cultural experiences.”Toscano added: “This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to showcasing AlUla’s natural beauty and rich heritage to the world.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 13:32 UTC
Fishermen demand immediate fuel subsidy
Fishermen in Karachi are demanding an immediate subsidy on fuel, as rising costs threaten to prevent them from going to sea and earning crucial foreign exchange. Historically, fishermen celebrated the end of the ban by preparing for a lucrative fishing season that extended through August, September, October, and beyond. Many vessels, docked since May, remain stationary, as their owners struggle to cover the escalating costs of operating. He called for fish stock surveys and a stipend for fishermen during the annual June-July ban, which is imposed to allow for fish breeding and protect against flooding. He also stressed the need for a comprehensive survey of all boats and vessels, which currently number over 10,000.
Source:The Express Tribune
August 01, 2024 11:30 UTC
US visa applications from Pakistan to ‘break all records’ in 2024
The number of US visas issued to applicants from Pakistan is expected to reach a record high in 2024. Aa per reports, the US consulates in Karachi and Islamabad have been processing over 10,000 visa applications each month. Embassy officials stated that 2023 saw the highest number of visas issued by the US embassy in Islamabad and the Karachi consulates. Officials announced that by October 2024, the number of visas issued is anticipated to surpass last year's record, as applications from Pakistan have increased. For those who have already submitted visa applications, the embassy has implemented a system for case reviews via email.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 09:50 UTC
MQM-P delegation to meet PM Shehbaz today
A delegation from Mutahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif today (Thursday). Sources indicate that the delegation will include Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Mustafa Kamal. As per details, the agenda for the meeting is expected to cover topics such as electricity bills and the payment of non-development charges to Independent Power Producers (IPPs). The MQM will demand a review of the contracts with the IPPs and the elimination of non-development charges. Additionally, the meeting will address the allocation of special development funds for urban areas and the provision of interest-free loans for youth.
Source:The Nation
August 01, 2024 09:29 UTC
“Confronting Extremism: The State’s Urgent Responsibility”
Beyond the abhorrent threats, this situation underscores the existential threat extremist forces pose to the nation and the state’s vulnerability to these groups. Pakistan finds itself in this precarious situation largely due to decades of ill-advised state policies regarding extremist groups. The authorities have either ignored the growth of jihadist, sectarian, and extremist groups or, in some cases, actively supported them. The state must take decisive action against extremist groups, as outlined in the National Action Plan, to prevent them from gaining further power and destabilizing the nation. The nation has already suffered significant losses, such as the assassination of Salmaan Taseer, due to accusations of blasphemy.
Source:The Patriot
August 01, 2024 07:23 UTC
Pakistan strongly condemned the incident and also submitted a resolution in the National Assembly: Tahira Aurangzeb
Action taken by Israel should be boycotted by all nations; Ali Azad, Today again we are seeing a World War One situation, Senator Humanity MohmandIslamabad: PML-N leader Tahira Aurangzeb’s conversation with SK Niazi on Sachi Baat programme said America has never given any positive statement on such incidents, if such an incident happens to a guest of any country, it is a very sad place, dozens of people in Ismail Hania’s family have also been martyred, Pakistan strongly condemned the incident and also submitted a resolution in the National Assembly, all political parties of Pakistan will strongly protest against Ismail Hania incident. ‘After the Supreme Court’s decision, the implementation consequences will be very severe, enacting legislation in the face of Supreme Court decisions would be tantamount to sitting the court, Malicious legislation will not last long, without implementing the decision of the Supreme Court, you can’t go left or right,’ said President Islamabad High Court Bar Association State Ali Azad. ‘Our constitution is like the dried flowers lying in the books, how can a government which does not have its own legs legislate, the court remarks that it is very difficult to hold elections according to the constitution, you have to break every rule to get a man, then what can a common man do, during the Tehreek-e-Insaf period, the country’s GDP remained stable at 6%,’ PTI leader Senator Humayun Mohmand. The PML-N government has ended the health card program, Nepra is also saying why Narowal Coal Power Plant has been installed, there is one power plant which has received 2 trillion rupees, if the NAB amendments are lifted, it will be seen how they have benefited themselves,The best friend is one who tells you wrong and not flatters you, Senator Humayun Mohmand. Terrorism control and load shedding was zero in Mian Nawaz Sharif’s government, Tahira Aurangzeb.
Source:The Patriot
August 01, 2024 07:21 UTC