US approves direct military aid to Taiwan for the first time

The United States has approved military aid to Taiwan under a programme usually used to help sovereign states in a move likely to anger China, which claims the self-ruled democratic island as its own territory.

According to international media reports, the Department of State informed Congress on Tuesday of the $80m package, which is modest in comparison with recent military sales to Taiwan but marks the first time Washington has provided assistance to Taipei under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) programme, which generally involves grants or loans to sovereign countries.

The announcement is likely to heighten tensions with Beijing, which has not ruled out the use of force to take control of Taiwan.

The US and China have had formal diplomatic relations for 50 years, but Washington remains Taiwan’s biggest backer. Legislation also requires that it supply the island with the weapons necessary for its defence, but these have usually been done on a trade basis rather than as direct aid.

The State Department insisted that the first-ever aid under the FMF did not imply any recognition of Taiwan’s sovereignty.

“Consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act and our longstanding One China policy, which has not changed, the United States makes available to Taiwan defence articles and services necessary to enable it to maintain a sufficient self-defence capability,” a State Department spokesperson said.

Taiwan’s defence ministry expressed gratitude. “The aid will help in regional peace and stability,” it said in a short statement.

Beijing has stepped up its military activities in and around Taiwan in recent years and sought to isolate the island diplomatically since Tsai Ing-wen, considered a “separatist” by China, was first elected president in 2016. The island is preparing for its next presidential election in January and Tsai’s deputy, William Lai, is currently leading the pack. Tsai and Lai both say the people of Taiwan should be the ones to determine their future.

 

FIA bars Zain Qureshi from flying abroad

Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Thursday ‘barred’ Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zain Qureshi, son of former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, from flying to Dubai.

Zain Qureshi reached Lahore International Airport to fly to Dubai via a flight from an international airline, but he was not allowed to board the flight by the FIA Immigration officials.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s son was stopped by FIA as his name was placed on the Exit Control List (ECL).

Zain Qureshi is the son of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi who is currently facing a case of cipher leak under the Official Secrets Act.

Earlier, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) swung into action to stop over 200 suspected Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers from leaving the country.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) tightened the noose around the PTI leaders and workers who were allegedly involved in May 9 riots.

Asia Cup: Bangladesh opt to bat first against Sri Lanka

Bangladesh have won the toss and opted to bat first against Sri Lanka in their first match of the Asia Cup 2023 on Thursday at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka have an injury-riddled squad with several key players like all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, pacers Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara missing the Asian event.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh suffered a massive blow as wicketkeeper-batter Liton Das was ruled out of the tournament.

"Dry wicket, hope to put runs on the board. We have to be at our best because Sri Lanka are very good especially at home. We just have to think about today's match, have to be better than them in 100 overs. Three spinners and three seamers," Shakib Al Hasan said after the toss.

Sri Lanka's skipper Dasun Shanaka also talked after the toss and said: "It is a good toss to lose with rain around the corner. Our main players are injured but we have all areas covered. I expect turn here because LPL was played here. Asia Cup here is very much excited because fans are behind us. Six batters, two allrounders, and three bowlers. Pathirana and Wellalage is playing,"

Bangladesh are led by the experienced Shakib Al Hasan and have veterans like Mushfiqur Rahim, Mustafizur Rahman, and Mehedi Hassan.

The Sri Lankan team is led by Dasun Shanaka and have experienced personnel like Kusal Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana and Dhanajaya de Silva.

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis(w), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka(c), Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana

Bangladesh: Mohammad Naim, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan(c), Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman

 

US dollar hits new heights against Pakistani rupee

The US dollar continued to hit new heights against a weakening Pakistani rupee, and reached the 305 level during trading as the gap with the inter-bank rate widened further.

The Pakistani rupee has found itself on a rollercoaster ride yet again against the mighty US dollar.

The dollar crossed an unprecedented milestone, soaring past the Rs305 mark in the inter-bank exchange, as the rupee weakened by another 80 paisas against the greenback.

With each passing day, the rupee’s value seems to be taking a free fall, leaving economists and citizens alike in a state of astonishment.

As the dollar continues to flex its muscles, the consequences are far-reaching.

The US dollar continues its steady flight upwards as the Pakistani rupee faces record-breaking battering in the currency exchange market.

The American currency shattered records further as it opened the new trading session on Wednesday morning with a surge of 70 paisas in the interbank market.

It traded at a record value of Rs303.75 against the local currency.

However, a short while later, the value of the rupee slumped by Rs1.40 against the mighty greenback, and it reached the record value of Rs304.45 in interbank trading, according to currency dealers.

In the open market also, the US currency has reached historic high levels as it jumped to Rs322 with an increase of Rs3 in just one day.

During the 19 days of the interim government, the US dollar has appreciated by Rs27 in the open market so far. In interbank trade, the American currency has gained Rs16.5 during the sane period.

 

Fire in South Africa's Johannesburg kills dozens, many homeless

At least 63 people have been killed and more than 40 treated for injuries following a fire at a multistorey building in downtown Johannesburg, South Africa, local media and an emergency worker said.

According to international media report, Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said the blaze on Thursday morning had gutted a building located in the city’s central business district, and the death toll was continuing to rise with 63 bodies recovered from the site so far.

“Latest update 63 bodies recovered and 43 injured,” Mulaudzi said in a post on social media. “Still continuing with search and recovery operation,” Mulaudzi said.

At least one child was among the dead, and those injured in the blaze are receiving treatment at “various health care facilities”, he said earlier.

Mulaudzi said the building was effectively an “informal settlement” where homeless people had moved into looking for accommodation without any formal lease agreements. He said that made it hard for rescue workers to search the building.

There might have been as many as 200 people living in the building, witnesses said.

The fire was largely extinguished, according to authorities, but smoke could be seen seeping from windows of the blackened building downtown.

Strings of sheets and other materials also hung out of some of the windows. It was not clear if people had used those to try and escape the fire or if they were trying to save their possessions.

SC dismisses ECP plea seeking review of Punjab polls verdict

The Supreme Court (SC) dismissed on Thursday the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) plea seeking a review of the apex court's order calling for elections in Punjab to be held on May 14.

In its April 4 order, the Supreme Court had not only declared as “unconstitutional” the ECP’s decision to move Punjab polls date to October 8 from April 10, and also set May 14 as the new date for polls in the province, in a blow to the then coalition government that was seen dragging its feet on provincial elections.

The verdict was unanimously announced by a three-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan.

During today's hearing, CJP Bandial observed that, "The court will intervene whenever there will be a constitutional violation."

In April this year, a three-member bench of the top court headed by CJP Bandial and comprising Justice Ijaz Ul Ahsan and Justice Munib Akhtar declared the ECP's decision of holding polls on October 8 instead of April 30 “illegal” and ordered the electoral watchdog to hold polls in Punjab on May 14.

However, the Commission filed a plea requesting the SC to revisit its order upon the expiration of the May 14 deadline set by the top court.

In a 14-page petition, the top election organising authority said that the apex court should review its decision as the judiciary “doesn’t have the authority to give the date of elections”.

“Such powers exist elsewhere under the Constitution but certainly not lie in a Court of law,” the ECP had said, citing various legalities and reasons behind its statement.

The electoral body accused the apex court of disregarding its constitutional jurisdiction, emphasising that it assumed upon itself the role of a public body in giving a date; "thus intervention by the court is necessitated to correct an error which has effectively changed the settled constitutional jurisprudence of the country".

In a bid to ensure elections on the prescribed date, the three-member bench of the Supreme Court on April 14 ordered the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to allocate and release Rs21 billion from the funds held with it to the ECP.

On April 18, the ECP informed the top court that it had not yet received Rs21 billion required for holding elections to the Punjab Assembly on May 14.

CJP Bandial, on April 20, had remarked that the apex court could make some room and change the date of elections if all the political parties evolve a consensus. Later, the top court clarified that negotiations between the ruling Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to end the political deadlock on the general election's timeframe were initiated in a volunteer capacity and that the top court did not issue any direction in this regard.

In a three-page verdict of the April 27 proceedings of the Punjab election delay case, the Supreme Court said its April 4 verdict directing the ECP to hold Punjab polls on May 14 “remained unchanged”.

However, despite multiple rounds of negotiations, both sides could not develop a consensus on the matter and on May 3, the PTI submitted a report to the top court on negotiations with the then PDM-led government, requesting the apex court to ensure implementation of its April 4 judgment regarding holding elections to the Punjab Assembly on May 14.

It may be noted that the Punjab Assembly was dissolved earlier this year in January, on the directives of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan in a bid to force the previous government in the Centre to hold snap polls.

Healthy foods for your weight loss journey

Eating nutrient-rich foods, such as lean protein and legumes, can support your overall health and help you manage your weight.

If losing weight is your goal, these 16 foods may help support a healthy weight loss journey.

Eggs
Eggs are incredibly nutrient-dense and high in protein and fat, which help you feel full.

In a 2020 study that included 50 people with overweight or obesity, researchers found that eating eggs and buttered toast for breakfast — instead of cereal, milk, and orange juice — increased the participants’ feelings of fullness for the next 4 hours.

Similarly, another study involving 48 adults found that those who ate a breakfast containing protein from eggs, as well as high fiber foods, reported greater satiety (fullness) than those who ate low fiber cereal and milk.

Leafy greens
Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens pack fiber and nutrients that can help keep you satisfied and hydrated.

What’s more, leafy greens contain thylakoids, plant compounds that have been linked with increased satiety and better appetite management.

However, more research is needed on the effects of thylakoids from food sources rather than supplements.

Fish
Fish is loaded with high quality protein, healthy fats, and other important nutrients. That combination keeps you feeling full and can help you manage your weight.

What’s more, fish — and seafood in general — may supply a significant amount of iodine, which is necessary for maintaining thyroid function and metabolism.

Cruciferous vegetables
Like other vegetables, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are high in fiber and tend to be incredibly filling.

These types of veggies also contain more protein than many other vegetables.

A combination of protein, fiber, and low calorie content makes cruciferous vegetables great foods to include in your meals if you want to lose weight.

Potatoes and other root vegetables
Potatoes and other root vegetables have several properties that make them wonderful foods for weight loss and optimal health.

On a scale called the Satiety Index, which measures how filling different foods are, boiled white potatoes scored the highest of all the foods tested.

If you allow potatoes to cool after boiling, they will form large amounts of resistant starch, a fiber-like substance that has been linked to weight loss in animal studies.

Beans and legumes
Beans and other legumes, such as lentils, black beans, and kidney beans, can be beneficial for weight loss.

Those foods tend to be high in protein and fiber, two nutrients that promote satiety. They also may contain some resistant starch.

Nuts
Nuts are high in heart-healthy unsaturated fat and provide you with protein, fiber, and other plant compounds that benefit heart health.

Studies have shown that eating nuts can improve metabolic health and even promote weight loss.

But, as with any high fat food, it’s a good idea to be mindful of portion sizes when eating nuts and to eat only to the point of satiety.

Chili pepper
Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a substance that makes hot peppers such as chilis spicy.

Some studies show that capsaicin can improve how fast your body metabolizes fat and increase your sensation of fullness. Together, these may support your healthy weight loss journey.

Still, more research is needed to learn about this effect, especially regarding capsaicin from food sources.

Fruit
Most fruits have properties that make them great for helping you reach or maintain a healthy weight.

Even though fruits contain natural sugar, they have a low energy density and are loaded with micronutrients. Plus, their fiber content helps prevent sugar from being released too quickly into your bloodstream.

Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to consume a variety of fruits of different colors, particularly those that are in season.

Chairman PTI challenges cipher case hearing in Attock Jail

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman and former prime minister has challenged the notification of the Law Ministry for hearing of cipher case against him in Attock Jail.

The secretary law, secretary of interior, chief commissioner, IG Islamabad, DG FIA, and Superintendents of Adiala and Attock jails have been made respondents in the plea moved to IHC.

The PTI chairman in his plea moved to Islamabad High Court through his lawyer Sher Afzal Marwat has pleaded the court to strike down the notification of shifting the cipher case to Attock Jail by declaring it ‘illegal’.

Earlier in the day, a special court extended the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman’s judicial remand till September 13 in the cipher case.

Read: Cipher case: Special court extends Imran's judicial remand till Sep 1

Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain, who heard the case at the Attock District Jail under Official Secrets Act 2023, issued the decision in the case of the missing cipher, a classified state document.

Hearing of the case took place at the Attock Jail following approval by the Law Ministry amid security concerns expressed by the Interior Ministry.

Former premier Imran Khan has been imprisoned in Attock jail since his conviction in the Toshakhana case on August 5.

Asia Cup: Pakistan win toss, opt to bat first against Nepal

Pakistan won the toss and decided to bat against Nepal in the first match of Asia Cup 2023 on Wednesday.

Team Green boasts some of the top-ranked ODI players, with skipper Babar Azam leading the way in the ODI Batter rankings, and the first game of the event against underdog Nepal is expected to be a one-side match.

Pakistan will be eyeing to clinch the Asia Cup title ahead of the World Cup campaign.

On the eve of the Asia Cup, Pakistan captain Babar Azam said he is excited to play in front of the passionate Multan crowd. He felicitated Nepal for qualifying for Asia Cup and hoped that participation would give a boost to sport in the country.

Meanwhile, Babar XI is entering Asia Cup with a positive attitude as they topped the ODI teams rankings after securing a whitewash over Afghanistan.

After today’s opener, Men in Green will travel to Sri Lanka tomorrow to face off against India in the second Group-A match. The Island nation will host the third and final match of the group between India and Nepal on 4 September.

India’s Chandrayaan-3 rover confirms sulphur on moon’s south pole

India’s moon rover has confirmed the presence of sulphur and detected several other elements on the lunar south pole, says the country’s space agency.

Last week, India became the first country to land a craft near the largely unexplored south pole, and just the fourth nation to land on the moon.

“The Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument onboard Chandrayaan-3 Rover has made the first-ever in-situ measurements on the elemental composition of the lunar surface near the south pole,” the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said in a statement dated Monday.

“These in-situ measurements confirm the presence of sulphur in the region unambiguously, something that was not feasible by the instruments onboard the orbiters,” it said.

The spectrographic analysis also confirmed the presence of aluminium, calcium, iron, chromium and titanium on the lunar surface, ISRO added, with additional measurements showing the presence of manganese, silicon and oxygen.

India has been steadily matching the achievements of other space programmes – active since the 1960s – at a fraction of their cost, despite suffering some setbacks.

The Chandrayaan-3 mission cost an estimated $75m – less than the budget of Hollywood space thriller, Gravity.

Four years ago, the previous Indian lunar mission failed during its final descent, in what was seen at the time as a huge setback for the programme.

Chandrayaan-3 has captivated public attention since launching nearly six weeks ago in front of thousands of cheering spectators, and its successful touchdown on the moon last week came just days after Russia’s Luna-25 lander crashed in the same region.

Russia’s head of the state-controlled space corporation Roscosmos attributed the failure to the lack of expertise due to the long break in lunar research that followed the last Soviet mission to the moon in 1976.

 

Power bills: IMF asks Pakistan to share relief plan in writing

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday asked Pakistan to share the plan in writing to provide relief in electricity bills as the protests continue countrywide.

According to media report, the development comes after the caretaker government decided to seek the lender's nod before announcing any relief to the consumers.

A meeting of the federal cabinet was held on Tuesday with interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar in the chair to mull options but ended without announcing any measures.

The Power Division shared its proposals with the authorities but due to strict IMF loan conditions, it was concluded that the lender should be taken on board first.

Islamabad had signed a $3 billion loan agreement with the Fund in July and agreed to stringent financial discipline during the programme.

Under the bailout package, the previous government of the Pakistan Democratic Movement okayed a massive increase in electricity rates which are now being reflected in the bills.

As per the cabinet instructions, Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar held a virtual meeting with IMF representative Esther Perez and discussed relief measures, report said.

They were briefed on the current situation as protests continue unabated across the country.

The Pakistani team submitted various proposals for relief in electricity bills but the IMF officials sought the relief plan in writing which would be shared with them today, report added.

 

PTI Chairman re-arrested in cipher case after Toshakhana sentence suspended

PTI Chairman Imran Khan has been re-arrested moments after his sentence in the Toshakhana criminal case was suspended.

Imran Khan was arrested in the cipher case and sent on judicial remand till August 30. The decision was announced by Official Secrets Act court judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain.

The special court has sent the written verdict to the Attock Jail superintendent. It ordered to present Imran Khan in the court on August 30.

The judge remarked that the suspect is on judicial remand in a case under the Official Secrets Act. The suspect should be kept in jail and presented in court on August 30.

Moments ago, the Islamabad High Court had suspended the sentence of PTI Chairman Imran Khan in the Toshakhana criminal case.

A division bench of IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq and Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri accepted Imran Khan’s appeal and pronounced the decision.

The court has ordered to release Imran Khan from jail. The PTI chief has been asked to submit bail bonds of Rs100,000.

The high court’s division bench had reserved its decision on Monday in an appeal filed by Imran Khan seeking suspension of his sentence in the Toshakhana case. It said it would announce the verdict at 11am today.

Separately, Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi met him in the Attock District Jail. His sisters Aleema and Uzma Khan also met with their brother later.

All those accompanying Bushra Bibi were earlier stopped at the jail checkpost. After their separate meetings with Khan, his sisters and wife left the jail together.

At the previous hearing, Election Commission of Pakistan’s lawyer Amjad Pervaiz had completed his arguments.

He had said the PTI chairman concealed the Toshakhana information in his asset details, and then opposed the appeal for suspension of sentence.

The counsel said it is necessary to issue a notice to the public prosecutor in the case. The hearing should not proceed without issuing notices to the state and hearing their side, Amjad Pervaiz requested.

The chief justice remarked that a complainant is never made a party in NAB cases. The state does not appear in NAB cases and a bureau prosecutor is heard, the counsel responded.

The law does not mention the word complainant, only the state is mentioned, the ECP lawyer contended.

Amjad Pervaiz said there is not a single judgment where a complaint of corrupt practices has been filed with the magistrate.

The other party said the complaint cannot be sustained as it was not filed before the correct forum, he stated, adding that it is not true and the situation is completely the opposite.

They have also harassed the judge who delivered the verdict in the Toshakhana case, the ECP counsel claimed, adding that the defence has adopted the stance that this is the first case in which the suspect was not given the opportunity to defend himself.

All the members of the Election Commission of Pakistan unanimously approved filing of the complaint in their decision, the lawyer remarked.

Amjad Pervaiz said the trial court held 44 hearings out of which Imran Khan only appeared in four.

Apple Watch 9 price predictions: unveiling the potential cost

As anticipation builds for the speculated Apple September event, the burning question remains: what will the price tag of the Apple Watch Series 9 look like? Awaiting its moment in the spotlight, the next-generation Apple Watch is poised to share the stage with the company’s latest tech unveiling.

But the big reveal we’re all eager for is the Apple Watch 9 price. The exact figure remains a mystery until we have a comprehensive view of the distinctions between the Apple Watch Series 9 and its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 8.

However, in the absence of surprises, it’s likely that the starting price for the Apple Watch 9 will continue the tradition at $399 – the established benchmark for this premier smartwatch over the years.

Speculations are rife that the Apple Watch 9’s price won’t veer from the $399 mark set by the Apple Watch Series 8. This base price secures the 41mm model complete with GPS functionality.

For those opting for the 45mm size, the cost escalates to $429. For the added convenience of cellular support, allowing you to remain connected sans your iPhone, the price points shift to $499 and $529 respectively.

Moreover, whispers suggest the potential arrival of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 this year. With its commanding 49mm display and robust titanium casing, the Apple Watch Ultra originally commanded a price of $799. Rumors hint that its successor might uphold the same price tag.

Meanwhile, for those eyeing affordability, the Apple Watch SE (2022) is expected to continue its availability. Offering a starting price of $249, the Apple Watch SE trims down some flagship features while still delivering a commendable smartwatch experience.

To aid your decision-making, our guide spotlighting the best Apple Watch models can steer you toward the most suitable option.

Should budget considerations weigh on your mind, exploring the finest Apple Watch deals or consulting our guide on trading in your current device to offset the cost of the new one are worthwhile avenues to explore

Parvez Elahi’s physical remand extended till Sept 2 in corruption case

The accountability court of Lahore has extended the physical remand of former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi till September 2.

The court was hearing a case of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) regarding alleged corruption in development schemes.

It has sought the investigation report from the NAB on the next hearing.

Elahi had also challenged his arrest by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in the Lahore High Court. The Punjab IGP, NAB, FIA and others have been made parties in the petition.

The petition maintains that the NAB illegally issued an arrest warrant and executed it.

The bureau also illegally upgraded the inquiry to an investigation. It did not even give a call-up notice nor did it give time to submit a statement.

The petition requests the Lahore High Court to declare the arrest by the NAB null and void.

The court should issue an order to stop Parvez Elahi’s arrest in any undisclosed case.

During the proceedings in a NAB case of alleged corruption in development schemes against the former CM, lawyer Amjad Pervaiz said if Moonis Elahi committed a wrongful act, his father could not be held responsible for it.

Moonis Elahi is independent and self-reliant in his work. Higher court verdicts also say the same, he told the accountability court.

The prosecution has made some huge allegations, the counsel says, adding that they should be asked to provide documents related to the allegations too.

The accountability court of Lahore has reserved its verdict on the application for the physical remand of Elahi. The NAB sought the PTI president’s physical remand.

Elahi’s lawyer requested for declaring his client’s arrest illegal.

In a report prepared by the NAB, it was revealed that PTI President Elahi misused his office during his stint as the chief minister and had 116 schemes approved for his hometown of Gujrat.

 

Iraq executes three over ISIS-claimed blast that killed hundreds

Iraq has executed three people convicted in a 2016 bombing case involving the ISIL (ISIS) armed group that killed hundreds of people.

According to international media reports, the office of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said on Monday that the hangings were carried out on Sunday night and Monday morning, but did not name those executed or provide details about when they were sentenced.

The attack took place early on July 3, 2016, in Baghdad’s Karrada shopping area when it was filled with people in advance of the Eid al-Fitr festival at the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The car bomb killed a limited number of people, officials said at the time, but it caused flames that spread and trapped people inside shopping centres that lacked emergency exits.

By the time the fire was put out, 323 people had died, making it one of the deadliest attacks to ever hit Iraq and one of the world’s deadliest attacks since the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States.

Police Major-General Talib Khalil Rahi said at the time that the bomber’s minibus had been loaded with plastic explosives and ammonium nitrate. Some of the dead could not be identified due to the intensity of the raging fires.

Al-Sudani’s office said in its statement that the prime minister met the victims’ families following the hangings and informed them that “the rightful punishment of death sentence was carried out against three key criminals found guilty of their involvement in the terrorist bombing”.

Justice system that undermines justice not acceptable: Shehbaz

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday slammed the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial for "favouring" Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) suspended the sentence awarded to him in the Toshakhana case.

The IHC verdict today comes as a major legal victory for Khan who was sentenced to three years in jail and fined Rs100,000 in the Toshakhana case by Additional Districts and Sessions Judge Dilawar Humayun — after finding him guilty of corrupt practices related to the state gift repository — in a move that barred him from contesting elections due later this year.

In his message on X, formerly Twitter, the former premier also wrote that the IHC had been influenced by the apex court's leniency toward the PTI chief.

"The "favourite's" sentence has been suspended, not terminated.

"Chief Justice's message of "Good to see you" and "Wishing you good luck" reached Islamabad High Court. If everyone knows what the decision will be before the decision comes, it should be a moment of concern for the justice system," the former premier wrote.

Read: IHC suspends Imran Khan’s sentence in Toshakhana case

He further stated that when a "clear message" was received from the higher judiciary, the subordinate court would follow suit.

"A monitoring judge was appointed to ensure Nawaz Sharif's punishment, [and now] the chief justice himself [has become] a monitoring judge to save the 'favourite'," he wrote, slamming the courts for giving Khan relief.

Taking issue with the overturning of the sentence, Shehbaz's tweet further read: "This role of the justice system will be written as the dark chapter of history. Scales tilted to one side and a justice system that undermines justice are not acceptable.

He wrote that the law was powerless before those who "sold the watches".

"If thieves and state terrorists are facilitated, where will the common man get justice in the country?"

The former premier also lamented that Khan and his party were given undue leniency by the courts.

"Be it May 9, be it an attack on the judicial complex, be it raining petrol bombs on the police, everything is forgiven," he concluded.

Viv Richards predicts Shaheen to pick most wickets during World Cup 2023

West Indies legend, Sir Viv Richards, has offered his prediction regarding the upcoming 2023 World Cup, set to take place in India between October 5 and November 19.

According to Richards, the leading wicket-taker during the tournament will be none other than Pakistan's talented left-arm seamer, Shaheen Afridi.

Richard, sharing his thoughts on a video featured on the official Instagram account of the International Cricket Council (ICC), highlighted the significant progress that Afridi has made.

“The leading wicket-taker in the World Cup will be Shaheen Afridi because I have seen him in Pakistan. I spent some time in the PSL and I have seen his massive growth. [He is a] highly determined individual. He is my man.,” Richards said.

Last week, New Zealand pacer, Tim Southee at the Ceat Cricket Rating Award event, mentioned the prowess of Shaheen Afridi and Trent Boult, acknowledging their ability to trouble batsmen consistently throughout their careers.

“Shaheen and Trent Boult are quality bowlers and have caused a lot of players headaches over the years,” Southee said.

US dollar soars to new high against PKR

The US dollar’s relentless surge against the Pakistani rupee shows no signs of abating, reaching record highs in both the interbank and open markets on the second day of the business week.

According to details, the dollar’s value climbed by an additional 75 paisas in the interbank market, settling at an alarming 302.75 rupees.

In the open market, the dollar remains at a historic level of Rs316.

Within a mere two weeks, the US dollar has appreciated by a staggering 13 rupees in the interbank market and 20 rupees in the open market.

On Monday, the rupee concluded the day at an all-time low against the US dollar, closing at 302.

Imaan Mazari rearrested hours after bail in sedition case

Human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, who was granted bail in a sedition case earlier today, was rearrested on Monday shortly after she was released from Adiala jail in Rawalpindi.

Islamabad police took the human rights activist into custody. She was arrested in a case registered in Barakahu police station in the federal capital.

The Mazari’s counsel in a statement said the police did not inform them about the case in which Mazari had been arrested.

The development comes after an Islamabad anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Monday granted bail to Mazari and Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Ali Wazir in a sedition case related to the controversial speech against the state institutions.

IHC reserves verdict on Imran Khan's plea in Toshakhana case

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) today (Monday) has reserved a verdict on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan's plea seeking suspension of sentence by the trial court's Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Humayun Dilawar in the Toshakhana case.

A two-member bench, comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, conducted the hearing, with Election Commission of Pakistan's lawyer, Amjad Parvez, who wasn't able to appear before the court due to ill health at the last hearing on Friday, presented his arguments in the case.

Last week , the court had adjourned the hearing till Monday (today) on the request of his assistant counsel and ordered the ECP counsel to present arguments today. It had also directed the electoral authority to make alternative arrangements due to the unavailability of the lawyer.

PTI lawyer, Latif Khosa, completed his arguments in the last hearing.

Earlier this month, a trial court had sentence Khan to three-year in prison and imposed a fine of Rs100,000 earlier this month.

Khan challenged the verdict and approached the IHC for his release and suspension of the conviction. ECP, meanwhile, had filed a private complaint against Khan in the same case.

Under the rules governing Toshakhana — a Persian word meaning "treasure house" — government officials can keep gifts if they have a low worth, while they must pay a dramatically reduced fee to the government for extravagant items.

The Toshakhana has been under a microscope ever since the emergence of the allegations that Khan purchased the gifts he received as prime minister at throwaway rates and sold them off in the open market for staggering profits.

The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician was accused of misusing his 2018 to 2022 premiership to buy and sell gifts in state possession that were received during visits abroad and worth more than Rs140 million ($635,000).

The gifts included watches given by a royal family, according to government officials, who have alleged previously that Khan's aides sold them in Dubai.

Moreover, seven wristwatches, six made by watchmaker Rolex, and the most expensive a "Master Graff limited edition" valued at 85 million Pakistani rupees ($385,000), was also among the gifts.

A reference was forwarded by National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf to the Election Commission asking it to probe the matter.

In October 2022, the electoral body also declared the former premier guilty of corrupt practices and filed a complaint in an Islamabad court.

Sutlej braces for high flood as India releases more water

Hundreds of homes have been destroyed, while at several places roads and embankments have been washed away as the release of more water by India into River Sutlej has led the river to burst its banks.

The river flooding has caused devastation especially in Bahawalnagar, Hasilpur, Vehari and Luddan, Arifwala and Chishtian where roads are completely submerged, leaving hundreds of villages and towns cut off from their surroundings.

Pakistan Army, on the other hand, is assisting the local administrations in relief and rescue operations.

Sutlej River attains very high water level: Over 0.25m people evacuated, shifted to safe places

The situation is still grim at Arifwala where water from River Sutlej has inundated over 28 kilometres of area around the river.

The situation is more precarious in Tibbi Lal Beg area where water level continues to rise. Dozens of villages have been flooded, resulting in the washing away of homes, crops, and roads. At several places, embankments have also been washed away.

Tehsil administration, Rescue 1122 personnel and army Jawans are evacuating people from their homes, while on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi food items are being distributed among them.

Local assistant commissioner, on the other hand, has said that all kinds of facilities are being provided to the people at relief camps set up in the tehsil. However, the situation has started improving in some areas such as Bahawalpur, Kasur and Okara.

According to a report released by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), during the three-day period, from August 23 to August 26, water has receded in over 100 villages.

Libya suspends foreign minister after meeting with Israeli counterpart

The head of Libya's Government of National Unity Abdul Hamid Dbeibah has suspended the Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush and referred her to investigation, a statement said early on Monday.

According to international media reports, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said on Sunday he met with the Libyan Foreign Minister for the first time in history.

In a statement issued by the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Cohen described last week’s meeting held in Rome with Najla Elmangoush as "historic".

The top Israeli diplomat said the meeting with the Libyan foreign minister “is the first step in the relationship between Israel and Libya.”

"The size and strategic location of Libya give ties with it enormous importance and enormous potential for the State of Israel," Cohen added.

The meeting aimed to examine "possibilities for cooperation and relations between the countries and the preservation of the heritage of Libyan Jewry," Cohen said.

The preservation "includes renovating synagogues and Jewish cemeteries in the country,” he added.

As per reports, the first-ever meeting between the Israeli and Libyan foreign ministers was arranged by their Italian counterpart Antonio Taiani.

"We are working with a series of countries in the Middle East, Africa and Asia with the aim of expanding the circle of peace and normalisation of Israel," Cohen said.

There was no comment yet from the Libyan authorities on the Israeli minister’s statements. Libya does not have diplomatic relations with Israel.

Six Arab countries have diplomatic ties with Israel starting with Egypt in 1979, Jordan in 1994, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco in 2020.

PM to chair meeting on issue of increased electricity bills today

The meeting on the issue of increased electricity bills will be held in Islamabad today with Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar in the chair. Provincial Chief Ministers will also participate in the meeting.

Earlier, chairing a meeting, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar directed to present solid measures to him for reduction in increased electricity bills.

He said such steps would be taken which would not put additional burden on national exchequer and would also facilitate the consumers.

He directed relevant ministries and departments to provide details of the institutions and officers who are getting free of cost electricity.

The Prime Minister also directed to present short, medium and long term reform plans in the electricity sector, as soon as possible.

He asked the power distribution companies to give a road map for stopping electricity theft.

Afghan cricket team reaches Pakistan for Asia Cup

Afghanistan cricket team reached Pakistan to participate in Asia Cup 2023.

According to details, the Afghanistan cricket team reached Lahore from Colombo, where the Afghan team was commuted to the hotel under strict security.

It is pertinent to note that the presidential protocol is being provided to the teams arriving in Pakistan for the Asia Cup.

Afghanistan cricket team will start practice at Gaddafi Stadium from tomorrow (Tuesday).

The Afghan team will play its first match against Bangladesh on September 03 in the Asia Cup.

Law ministry warns against social media trolling of IHC chief justice

The Ministry of Law and Justice has issued a warning to individuals trolling the Islamabad High Court (IHC) chief justice on social media.

The Ministry of Law in a tweet stated that political parties should refrain from attacking national institutions.

It stated that the social media assault by political parties on the chief justice of the Islamabad High Court is utterly reprehensible.

Recently, the Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamir Farooq,faced criticism particularly from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

In their tweet, the PTI had mentioned that each decision by the chief justice contradicts the previous ones, benefiting the government.

Following the criticism aimed at the IHC chief justice, legal experts had strongly condemned it, terming it an unwarranted attempt to undermine and pressure the judiciary.

Earlier, The FIA Cybercrime Circle lodged a case against several prominent figures from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, accusing them of initiating a purportedly baseless campaign against state institutions through social media.

BCCI president Roger Binny to visit Pakistan during Asia Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Roger Binny has confirmed that he will visit Pakistan for an official dinner to be hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in Lahore to commemorate their hosting of the Asia Cup 2023, which begins on August 30.

According to media report, "Vice President Rajiv Shukla and I will arrive in Pakistan on September 4," said Binny.

It is likely Binny and Shukla will also attend a match at the Gaddafi Stadium on September 3 or 5 as part of their two-day visit.

The report added that an official invitation was extended by Zaka Ashraf, the current PCB managing committee chairman, to the top brass of the BCCI on August 15 and that all top board members from the participating teams, including the BCCI, have confirmed their attendance.

Binny said: "I have no hesitation in going to Pakistan. My visits to Pakistan were always memorable, Pakistanis are very hospitable," adding that he hoped his visit to Pakistan would benefit India-Pakistan cricket ties.

He further added that matches between India and Pakistan are bigger and more watched than the Ashes.

"Matches between Pakistan and India are important for cricket," he said.

Binny's remarks come against a backdrop of conflict between the two boards, a conflict that has been going on for several months due to a direct fallout of the political tensions between the two countries.

It is pertinent to note that Binny's trip to Pakistan for the Asia Cup will be his first in 18 years. The BCCI president last visited the country in 2005 for the Asian Cricket Council camp.

 

WhatsApp's new update allows users to send HD videos

Just weeks after adding support for HD photos, Meta’s messaging app WhatsApp now allows users to send videos in HD resolution.

The company has rolled out HD video support to both iOS and Android users.

Similar to the HD photos feature, the HD videos feature gives customers the choice to share high-def videos across WhatsApp.

Previously, HD videos would have been compressed to 480p, now, users can opt to send their video in HD, but only up to 720p.

The process here is the same as for sharing HD photos.

After selecting the video or videos you want to share, you’ll tap the new HD button on the top of the screen. A dialogue box will appear where you can confirm if you want to share in Standard Quality or HD Quality and will show the associated file sizes. You then press send to share the video as usual.

Images and videos shared on WhatsApp are protected with the company’s end-to-end encryption.

How to conquer insomnia: Tips to get you sleeping again

Are you having trouble with insomnia? While everyone doesn’t need the same amount of sleep, most adults need between seven to nine hours of shut eye per night. As you get older, you may get tired earlier and wake up earlier, but you still need the same amount of sleep.

According to interanational media reports, “Sleep is essential for your physical and mental well-being,” says Michael Pham, DO, an internal medicine physician at Scripps Coastal Medical Center Carlsbad. “Adequate sleep helps restore your energy, boost your mood, lower your blood pressure and produce hormones that help build muscle, repair cells and tissue, fight infection and control appetite.”

Remember that if you sleep better, you’ll feel better. Untreated insomnia can lead to significant health issues, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and issues with memory.

1. Limit caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant and can stay in your system for up to eight hours. Limit yourself to one caffeinated drink early in the day.

2. Get regular exercise
“Not being active enough during the day can make it harder for you to sleep at night, regular exercise can help you sleep better,” says Dr. Pham.

Aim to finish your workout about three to four hours before you go to bed, or you may feel too alert to doze off.

3. Eat light at night
Eating a heavy or spicy meal too close to bedtime can cause discomfort from indigestion and make it hard to drift off to sleep.

Have dinner earlier in the evening. “If you are still hungry before bedtime, make your choice mindfully and meaningfully,” Dr. Pham says. “Consider whole food options or foods that are rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, and/or healthy fats such as vegetables and hummus or berries and yogurt.”

4. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
Try to go to bed and get up at the same time every day. While it might be tempting to sleep in on the weekends, this can throw off the body’s natural clock, making it more difficult to get to sleep later in the night.

5. Keep it quiet
Noises such as nearby traffic, dogs barking, or a dripping faucet can chip away at your rest. If there are noises you can’t avoid during the night, try earplugs, a fan or a white-noise machine.

6. Turn off your phone
Blue wavelength light from digital devices, including phones, tablets and computers, keeps us alert, and inhibits the production of melatonin, the hormone needed for sleep.

“Turn off all your devices about an hour before bedtime,” says Dr. Pham. “If you do choose to use technology during that hour, keep it 14 inches from your face and dim the brightness to reduce the blue light and promote the natural melatonin release.”

7. Relax
Try not to stress or worry about tomorrow’s problem before bedtime. During the last hour before bedtime, start winding down and engage in an activity that is relaxing. Try a warm bath, meditating, listening to music or reading.

South Africa women’s cricket team arrives in Karachi for T20I, ODI series

For the first time, the South African women’s cricket team reached Karachi on the tour of Pakistan.

According to sources, the South African women’s cricket team reached Karachi by flight EK600 via Dubai.

In this regard, police sources say that the President’s protocol is being given for the security of the team.

Strict security arrangements were made from Karachi Airport Terminal One to the team’s accommodation.

The 3 T20 matches between South Africa and Pakistan women’s cricket teams will start at 7:30 PM on September 1, 3, and 5 at the National Stadium.

Both teams will also play ODI matches on September 8, 11 and 14.

South African women cricketers will leave for home on September 15.

PM vows to utilise all available resources for development of Balochistan

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Sunday assured of resolution of all issues of Balochistan province and said that Pakistan’s progress and development was linked with the development of the province.

The prime minister was talking to a delegation of the elders of the province that called on him to felicitate him on assuming the office. The delegation also extended good wishes, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

Governor Balochistan Abdul Wali Kakar and Caretaker Chief Minister Ali Mardan Domki were also present during the meeting. The prime minister said that the government was taking steps, on priority basis, to enhance foreign investment, industrial and agriculture development and provision of employment opportunities in the province.

He also assured of providing equal job opportunities to the youth of Balochistan. For the country’s progress, the caretaker government would strive to increase the role of Balochistan province through provision of infrastructure, electricity, water and all other available resources, he added.

Pakistani doctor gets 18-year jail in US on terror charges

Muhammad Masood, a 31-year-old licensed Pakistani doctor, living in the United States on a work visa, was sentenced to 18 years in jail for attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organisation, Daesh.

"A Rochester man was sentenced today to 216 months in prison, equivalent to 18 years, followed by five years of supervised release for attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization," a press release issued by the US Department of Justice stated.

The court documents showed that Masood was formerly employed as a research coordinator at a medical clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, under an H-1B visa.

As per the official statement, Masood's activity from January 2020 to March 2020 showed his attempts to become a part of the militant outfit and provide material support in carrying out terrorist acts in the US.

"Between January 2020 and March 2020, Masood used an encrypted messaging application to facilitate his travel overseas to join a terrorist organization," the statement added.

It further stated that the Pakistani man made multiple statements about his desire to join Daesh and also pledged his allegiance to the designated terrorist organisation and its leader.

"Masood also expressed his desire to conduct 'lone wolf' terrorist attacks in the United States."

On February 21, 2020, he bought a plane ticket from Chicago, Illinois, to Amman, Jordan, with plans to travel to Syria from there.

However, his travel plans changed on March 16, 2020, owing to the border closure by Jordan under the coronavirus travel restrictions.

He then decided to fly from Minneapolis to Los Angeles, where he would meet a person who he believed would help him with travel via a cargo ship to deliver him to the territory claimed by Daesh.

On March 19, 2020, Masood traveled from Rochester to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to board a flight bound for Los Angeles, California.

However, he was eventually arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) upon arrival at the airport.

Masood pleaded guilty last year on August 16 to attempting to provide material support to Daesh.

Senior Judge Paul A. Magnuson sentenced him to 18 years in prison on Friday, after the completion of investigations by the FBI's JTTF.

Racist gunman kills three black people in US

A masked white man has shot dead three Black people in a shop in Florida, in the southern United States, in a racially-motivated attack.

According to international media reports, the sheriff’s office in Jacksonville, the man, who was in his 20s but has not yet been named, was wearing body armour when he entered the Dollar General outlet armed with an assault-style rifle and a handgun.

He shot dead three Black customers – two men and one woman. After a standoff with police, he shot himself.

“This shooting was racially motivated and he hated Black people,” Jacksonville Sheriff T K Waters told a press conference on Saturday.

Waters said authorities believed the attacker acted alone and that before the attack, he had authored “several manifestos” for media, his parents and law enforcement detailing his “disgusting ideology of hate”.

He said the attacker was spotted at a local historically Black college, Edward Waters University, where he put on his vest and a mask before going to the local branch of Dollar General, a discount chain with stores across the US.

The victims of the attack have not been named.

 

PM Kakar convenes meeting after protests erupt over inflated electricity bills

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar called for an emergency meeting at the Prime Minister’s House tomorrow to discuss the issue of rising electricity bills.

According to PM's post on microblogging platform X — formally known as Twitter — the meeting would include briefings from the Ministry of Energy (Power Division) and distribution companies.

Consultations would also be held to provide maximum relief to consumers regarding electricity bills, according to PM Kakar.

The inflated power bills triggered country-wide protests, including Karachi, Rawalpindi, Multan, Gujranwala, and Peshawar.

In Karachi, the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) held demonstrations at multiple places against the skyrocketing increase in power bills and what it said overcharging on part of the K-Electric (KE).

Meanwhile, in Rawalpindi, protesters gathered at Committee Chowk and burned bills while demanding that the government abolish imposed taxes on electricity.

In Peshawar, protesters called the increase in electricity bills unbearable and demanded relief from the government.

In Gujranwala, Protesters surrounded the Gujranwala Electric Power Company office in protest against expensive electricity.

Protests were also held in other cities, including Narowal, Attock, Sargodha, and Haripur, against high power bills.

In July, the then federal cabinet gave its go-ahead to a massive increase in the base tariff of electricity by up to Rs7.50 per unit against the national average tariff determination of Rs4.96 by the power regulator National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra).

The regulator had hiked the tariff to increase revenue collection for the loss-making power distribution companies (Discos) during the current fiscal year.

 

Pakistan welcomes Denmark govt's move to outlaw Holy Quran desecration

Pakistan has welcomed the reported decision by Denmark government to propose a bill outlawing the burning of the Holy Quran and other divine books.

In a statement on Saturday, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said this is a step in the right direction. She hoped the step taken by Denmark would culminate in effective legislation to curb the desecration of the Holy Quran and other divine books.

In his interaction with the Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, while appreciating the Danish Government's proposed legislation, expressed the hope that the bill, when passed, would create interfaith harmony and bring an end to an environment of hatred amongst people of different religious faiths.

The spokesperson hoped that other countries will emulate and undertake similar steps to outlaw such hateful acts.

The spokesperson said Pakistan has always maintained that desecration and burning of holy scriptures constitute a serious act of religious hatred, which must not be permitted under the guise of freedom of expression, opinion and protest. She said as stipulated by international human rights law and called for by the UN Human Rights Council, such provocative acts must be prevented and prohibited through legal means.

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said the recurrent incidents of the Holy Quran's desecration during the last few months hurt the sentiments of over 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide. Such abhorrent acts intend to create friction among communities and harm inter-faith harmony and mutual respect.

The spokesperson said it is the responsibility of national governments to take all measures necessary to prevent these acts of religious hatred, xenophobia and Islamophobia.

9 killed, 50 injured in fire inside train coach in south India

A fire erupted inside a stationary train compartment at a railway station in southern India killing at least nine people, officials said.

According to internaitonal media reports, the blaze broke out early at 5 am local time on Saturday morning and burned for two hours before firefighters were able to put it out, authorities said.

It started inside a train's private compartment which was detached and parked on the railway tracks in the Madurai station, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, according to a statement by the Southern Railway.

A gas cylinder smuggled in by some passengers caused the fire, the statement read, adding that police, fire and rescue officials helped pull out the bodies from the coach. There was no damage to other coaches.

Southern Railway did not divulge the number of people inside the compartment at the time of the fire but said many managed to get out.

Officials told reportrs, that 50 others were injured and taken to hospital.

Accidents are common on India’s railroad network, one of the world’s largest, with some 22 million passengers daily. Most collisions and fires are blamed on poor maintenance and human error.

In June, a deadly train collision killed over 290 people in one of India's worst train accidents.

Final ODI: Pakistan opt to bat first against Afghanistan

Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first on Saturday in the final one-day international (ODI) match of the series against Afghanistan.

Pakistan have already won the series 2-0 and will be looking to make a clean sweep in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where Afghanistan is hosting the series.

If Pakistan win the match today, they will not only relish the clean sweep victory but will also overtake Australia and jump to the top spot in the International Cricket Council (ICC) ODI ranking.

Ahead of the match today, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam remarked that the first 10 overs would be tough.

"We will increase the pressure on the Afghan team by setting a huge target," he said, adding that four changes had been made to the playing eleven.

He added that Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Wasim Jr are playing today in place of Usama Mir, Iftikhar Ahmed, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf.

On the other hand, Afghanistan suffered a blow when all-rounder Azmatullah Umarzai was ruled out of the third ODI match due to side strain.

All-rounder Gulbadin Naib has been brought in to replace Azmatullah, the Afghanistan Cricket Board said.

Playing XI
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (captain), Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Shaheen Afridi.

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Gulbadin Naib, Riaz Hassan, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi

ECP assures to provide level playing field to all political parties

A PML-N delegation attended a consultative meeting with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in Islamabad, on the invitation of ECP as part of commission's consultation process with different political parties.

Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja chaired the meeting at the ECP headquarters in Islamabad, while the PML-N delegation comprised Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Sanaullah, Zahid Hamid, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ataullah Tarar and Asad Junejo.

The delegation briefed the commission that the Council of Common Interest had unanimously approved final results of the recent census as all political parties had agreed on holding next general elections on the basis of fresh census. It declared ECP's schedule for delimitations as per law and the Constitution.

The delegation proposed that the process of delimitation of constituencies and updating of electoral rolls should be started simultaneously to avoid any delay in the general elections.

Talking about the code of conduct, it suggested imposing ban on the hate speeches of political parties. Similarly, only posters and stickers should be allowed to reduce expenditure of candidates.

The PML-N also proposed ECP to appoint its own officers as District Returning Officer in order to ensure transparency in the polling process.

On this occasion, the Chief Election Commissioner assured the delegation of holding free, fair and transparent elections as well as provision of level playing field to all the political parties and candidates.

Pakistan, China start first international road transport trade

The first convoy of cargo trucks is on its way from China to Pakistan, as trade started between Pakistan and China under international road transport.

Cross-border transportation of goods has for the first time started under the United Nations International Road Transport Convention in collaboration with National Logistics Corporation of Pakistan and CEVA Logistics, a well-known Chinese company.

This important development took place on the occasion of the 10 anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project.

A ceremony was held at Kashgar Yuanfang International Logistics Port Company for the official launch of the TIR service. The ceremony was attended by the representatives of NLC, Kashgar Customs, Municipal Committee officials, CEVA Logistics and Cross-Border E-Commerce Association.

The speakers highlighted the importance of the TIR transport route from Kashgar to Islamabad and shed light on the future plans for transportation of goods under the TIR between the two countries.

The project will provide an efficient and safe land route to connect the landlocked Central Asian states.

Thanks to simplified and coordinated customs procedures at the borders, the cross-border movement of TIR goods will be possible faster and more safely.

This will not only reduce time, but also cost. At the end of the ceremony, the first convoy of cargo trucks left for Pakistan.

Toshakhana case: 'What trial court did was wrong,' observes IHC CJ

Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Aamer Farooq on Friday observed that the trial court, which convicted former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan in Toshakahna case, "did wrong".

The judge's remarks came during the hearing of the PTI chief's appeal challenging the Toshakhana verdict, which sentenced him to three-year in prison and imposed a fine of Rs100,000 earlier this month.

Two-member IHC bench comprising CJ Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri heard the plea seeking suspension of Khan's conviction by the trial court's Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Humayun Dilawar.

During the hearing today, the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) legal counsel Amjad Parvez did not appear before the bench, citing ill health.

His assistant advocate asked the bench for an adjournment saying: "For the last eight months, we never sought adjournment."

He said that doctors had suggested Parvez bed rest.

At this, the IHC chief justice said: "The request for suspension of sentence is now at a critical stage." He added that arguments would have been completed in fifteen to twenty minutes.

He further said: "We can also do what the trial court did, but we will not."

The PTI has criticised the trial court's verdicy saying that the decision was announced in haste in the absence of the party chief and his lawyer.

The court then adjourned the hearing till Monday.

"We adjourn the case till Monday, and even if no one comes, we will annouce our decision," Justice Farooq said, adding that what the trial court had done was wrong.

At this, the PTI counsel Latif Khosa remarked: "One person has been in jail for twenty days. Will [you] keep the PTI chairman in jail for another three days?

"We will not appear in court, do what you have to do."

He requested the bench to suspend the sentence today.

"If you are satisfied with their arguments on Monday, then send them back to jail," he requested.

Besides the sentence of incarceration, the additional district and sessions judge also imposed a fine of Rs100,000 after finding Khan guilty of graft in the Toshakhana case.

Following the PTI chief's arrest, it is the third petition the party had filed.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Supreme Court (SC) Wednesday heard a petition challenging IHC's decision to remand the case back to the trial court judge who had convicted him, and observed that the trial court had hastened Toshakhana's verdict.

It acknowledged the “procedural defects” in Khan's conviction but opted to wait for the IHC’s decision on the former premier's plea seeking suspension of the three-year sentence.

What is Toshakhana case?
Under the rules governing Toshakhana — a Persian word meaning "treasure house" — government officials can keep gifts if they have a low worth, while they must pay a dramatically reduced fee to the government for extravagant items.

The Toshakhana has been under a microscope ever since the emergence of the allegations that Khan purchased the gifts he received as prime minister at throwaway rates and sold them off in the open market for staggering profits.

The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician was accused of misusing his 2018 to 2022 premiership to buy and sell gifts in state possession that were received during visits abroad and worth more than Rs140 million ($635,000).

The gifts included watches given by a royal family, according to government officials, who have alleged previously that Khan's aides sold them in Dubai.

Moreover, seven wristwatches, six made by watchmaker Rolex, and the most expensive a "Master Graff limited edition" valued at 85 million Pakistani rupees ($385,000), was also among the gifts.

A reference was forwarded by National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf to the Election Commission asking it to probe the matter.

In October 2022, the electoral body also declared the former premier guilty of corrupt practices and filed a complaint in an Islamabad court.

Javelin star Arshad Nadeem qualifies for Paris Olympics, World Athletics Championships final

Pakistani javelin ace Arshad Nadeem made his mark on Friday by securing a spot in both the final of the World Athletics Championships (WAC) and the Paris Olympics 2024.

Nadeem’s remarkable throw of 86.79 metres, achieved during his third attempt in the qualifying round of the WAC held in Budapest, Hungary, not only secured his spot in the WAC final but also guaranteed his participation in the upcoming Olympics in Paris next year.

The javelin throw final is scheduled for August 27 (Sunday).

During his initial two attempts, he achieved distances of 70.63 metres and 81.53 metres, respectively. The Paris Olympics stipulates a qualifying minimum distance of 85.50 metres for the javelin throw, a requirement that the Pakistani athlete comfortably met.

In August last year, Nadeem achieved a record-breaking throw during the javelin final at the Commonwealth Games, securing Pakistan’s first track and field medal in 56 years.

Nadeem’s monster 90.18-metre throw had brought Pakistan’s first athletics medal at the Games since 1966 and a first javelin gold for the country, bettering Mohammad Nawaz’s silver at the inaugural edition of the quadrennial multi-sport spectacle in 1954 and Jalal Khan’s second-place finish in 1958.

Achieving that distance in his fifth throw, he had come on top in a field that included world champion Anderson Peters, former Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott and former Commonwealth and world champion Julius Yego.

Bushra urges SC to take notice of ‘decline’ in PTI chairman’s health in jail

Former prime minister Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi on Friday urged the Supreme Court to take “serious notice” of the alleged threat to her husband’s life during his incarceration, citing a considerable decline in his health during a meeting with him in Attock jail.

She made the request in an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court through her representative Advocate Syed Rifaqat Hussain Shah today, which recounted her meeting with her husband on August 22.

It comes after similar concerns were raised by her in a letter to the Punjab government last week, in which she voiced fears that her husband could be “poisoned” in Attock jail.

On Aug 5, an Islamabad trial court had convicted Imran in a case pertaining to concealing details of state gifts and sentenced him to three years in prison. Soon after the verdict, he was arrested by the Punjab police from his Zaman Park residence in Lahore and taken to the prison in Attock.

In the affidavit submitted, it was highlighted that Bushra was allowed to meet Imran “after unwarranted delays and difficulties” on Aug 22, 2023, at the Attock jail.

It added that “during the course of the meeting, the petitioner expressed his determination to stand for the Constitution and Rule of Law in Pakistan and to offer any sacrifice and suffer any privation or hardship for his beloved country”.

The affidavit stated that during her meeting, Bushra “found a significant decline in the petitioner’s health” and that he “appears to have lost weight substantially during the course of his confinement, particularly loss of muscles around his arms”.

“Such a decline in the health of a person in his 70s can be a serious danger to his life,” it added.

“That without going into details and keeping in view the totality of circumstances observed by the deponent, it is feared that the petitioner’s life is seriously threatened for which it is humbly prayed that this honourable court may kindly take serious notice of the same”, the affidavit concluded.

This is not the first time Bushra has expressed fear of her husband’s life in danger.

In a letter dated August 17, addressed to the Punjab home secretary, Imran’s wife had sought the ex-PM’s transfer from District Jail Attock to Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail and expressed fear he could be poisoned in lock-up.

According to the letter, the life of the ex-prime minister was in danger as “he was previously attacked twice whereby once he was hit by bullets shots (sic) on his body.”

“Moreover it is apprehended that he may be poisoned in the jail through food as the ones responsible and perpetrators of previous attacks are still at large and have not been captured by the law enforcement agencies,” Bushra had feared.

Meanwhile, the PTI chief has appealed his jail sentence in both the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court. On Aug 23, the Supreme Court had acknowledged “procedural defects” in the August 5 conviction of Imran in the Toshakhana reference but opted to wait for the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) decision on a plea seeking suspension of the three-year sentence to the former prime minister.

The IHC adjourned its proceedings till Monday after the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) lawyer skipped the hearing over illness.

Ex-US president Trump’s mug shot released after booking at Georgia jail on election charges

Donald Trump’s mug shot was released on Thursday evening after he was booked at an Atlanta jail on more than a dozen felony charges as part of a wide-ranging criminal case stemming from the former US president’s attempts to overturn his 2020 election defeat in Georgia.

An unsmiling Trump — inmate no. P01135809, according to Fulton County Jail records — was captured glaring at the camera in the mug shot.

The image represented yet another extraordinary moment for Trump, who did not have to submit to a photograph when making appearances in his three other criminal cases.

Trump spent only about 20 minutes at the jail before heading back to his New Jersey golf club. Before boarding his private plane at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport, he repeated his claim that the prosecution — along with the others he faces — is politically motivated.

“What has taken place here is a travesty of justice,” he told reporters. “I did nothing wrong, and everybody knows it.”

Trump, 77, already has entered uncharted territory as the first former US president to face criminal charges, even as he mounts another campaign for the White House next year.

Far from damaging his candidacy for the Republican Party nomination, however, the four cases filed against him have only bolstered his standing. He holds a commanding polling lead in the Republican race to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the November 2024 election.

Dozens of supporters, waving Trump banners and American flags, jostled for a glimpse as Trump arrived at the jail. Among the Trump backers gathered outside was Georgia US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of the former president’s most loyal congressional allies.

Lyle Rayworth, 49, who is in the aviation industry in the Atlanta area, had been waiting near the jailhouse for 10 hours, since early on Thursday.

“Yeah, I’m hoping he sees me waving the flags, showing support,” Rayworth said as he awaited Trump’s arrival. “He needs us.”

The image is certain to be circulated widely by Trump’s foes and supporters alike.

“We want to put it on a T-shirt. It will go worldwide. It will be a more popular image than the Mona Lisa,” said Laura Loomer, 30, a Republican former congressional candidate who mingled with other Trump supporters outside the jail on Thursday morning.

Judge Scott McAfee set a trial date of Oct 23 for one of Trump’s 18 co-defendants, attorney Kenneth Chesebro, after Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis proposed that date in response to Chesebro’s request for a speedy trial. The judge’s order said the schedule does not yet apply to Trump or any of the other defendants.

Eleven of his co-defendants already have been booked, according to authorities. Some, like Rudolph Giuliani, the former New York mayor, were stone-faced in their mug shots, while others, such as lawyer Jenna Ellis, smiled for the camera.

All 19 defendants faced a Friday deadline to surrender. Court records showed that Mark Meadows, who served as Trump’s White House chief of staff, was processed at the jail on Thursday.

The jail has a reputation for grim conditions that have inspired rap songs and prompted an investigation by the US Justice Department.

Trump faces 13 felony counts in the Georgia case, including racketeering, which is typically used to target organised crime, for pressuring state officials to reverse his election loss and setting up an illegitimate slate of electors to undermine the formal congressional certification of Biden’s 2020 victory.

Trial date wrangling

Willis originally proposed a trial date of March 4 but moved it up for Chesebro after he asked that his trial start by October. Trump’s legal team has yet to propose a date but is expected to push for a much later start. On Thursday, his newest Atlanta lawyer, Steven Sadow, asked for Trump to be tried separately from Chesebro.

Trump has pleaded not guilty in the three other cases and denied wrongdoing. In the Georgia case, Willis has requested that arraignments begin the week of Sept 5, though defendants in Georgia are permitted to waive those appearances and plead not guilty via court filing.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg filed the first case, accusing Trump of falsifying business records to hide hush money payments to a porn star who claims to have had a sexual encounter with him years ago.

Trump also faces two sets of federal charges brought by Special Counsel Jack Smith — one case in Washington involving election interference and one in Miami involving classified documents he retained after leaving office in 2021.

He faces 91 criminal counts in total.

Trump agreed to post $200,000 bond and accepted bail conditions that would bar him from threatening witnesses or his co-defendants in the Georgia case.

Republicans who control the US House of Representatives said on Thursday they would investigate whether Willis improperly coordinated with federal prosecutors.

They previously launched an investigation of Bragg, who accused them of a “campaign of intimidation.”

On Wednesday, Trump’s leading rivals in the race for the Republican presidential nomination met in Milwaukee for their first debate.

Trump skipped that event, instead sitting for a pre-taped interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson aimed at siphoning away viewers.

“I’ve been indicted four times - all trivial nonsense,” Trump told Carlson.