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Author: News Desk

  • Pak-Saudi pact: Islamabad to sign defence cooperation agreements with UAE, Qatar?

    Pak-Saudi pact: Islamabad to sign defence cooperation agreements with UAE, Qatar?

    A South Asia security researcher at the University of Technology Sydney, Muhammad Faisal, has said that the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) could serve as a template for Islamabad to engage in similar bilateral defence cooperation pacts with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar.

    “In the immediate term, this agreement will consolidate and formalise multi-prong defence cooperation already underway, and new avenues to expand it via joint trainings, defence production and potential expansion of Pakistani troops contingent in Saudi Arabia will be explored,” Al Jazeera quoted Faisal as saying.

    “These events [Israeli strikes in Iran and Doha] have exacerbated security anxieties of the Gulf states while jeopardising confidence in the US security umbrella as the ultimate shield. As Gulf states look to bolster their security, regional countries such as Pakistan, Egypt and Turkiye emerge as natural partners,” he added.

    The statement came as Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said “the door had not been closed” and there was a possibility of other countries joining the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia security pact.

    “It is too early to speak of other countries joining the agreement; the door has not been closed,” the defence czar said.

    Asif was appearing on a private media outlet a day after the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) late Wednesday night announced the signing of the agreement, stating that “any aggression against either country shall be considered an act of aggression against both”.

    “This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieve security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defence cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression,” read a statement issued by the PMO.

    It may be noted that the agreement was signed after Israel’s illegal strikes on Qatar, bordering Saudi Arabia, on September 9, mounting security concerns and a lack of trust in the US’ ability to keep Israel on a leash by Gulf countries.

  • Rajab Butt ‘celebrates birth of son in UK’ amid legal troubles back home

    Rajab Butt ‘celebrates birth of son in UK’ amid legal troubles back home

    Controversial Pakistani YouTuber and TikToker Rajab Butt has sparked fresh online debate after a video surfaced on social media showing him celebrating what appears to be the birth of his son, while being thousands of miles away from his family in Pakistan and facing mounting legal troubles at home.

    In the widely circulated video, Rajab Butt is seen dancing in the streets of the UK, surrounded by balloons emblazoned with “baby boy” and accompanied by celebratory drum beats. Though the video strongly suggests the arrival of a newborn, Butt has yet to officially confirm the birth of his child.

    The content creator had previously announced that he and his wife Emaan were expecting their first child. The family also held a lavish baby shower. His wife, who was living with her parents after a conflict between the two, also came back to Rajab’s house in Lahore. The controversial vlogger remained in Dubai meanwhile before departing for the UK, citing legal threats as the reason for his continued absence from Pakistan.

    In a recent video, Rajab mentioned having a bad dream about his family and urged fans to keep his wife and unborn child in their prayers. Social media platforms have since been flooded with speculation and congratulatory messages, though no official announcement has been made by Rajab or his family regarding the child’s birth.

    The celebration video comes at a time when Rajab Butt is embroiled in serious legal controversies. Just last week, a Lahore court directed the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to take legal action against the YouTuber over blasphemy allegations.

    The accusations stem from the controversial launch of his perfume brand earlier this year, during which Rajab was accused of hurting religious sentiments and mocking blasphemy laws. Following public outcry and a case filed under Pakistan’s cybercrime laws, he issued a public apology, claimed he meant no harm, and announced the closure of the brand. Shortly thereafter, he left Pakistan.

    Adding to his woes, the Lahore High Court (LHC) recently sought a detailed report from police in connection with a rape case in which Rajab Butt and two others, including Man Dogar, were named. During a hearing on the bail petition of co-accused Salman Haider, the investigating officer informed the court that Haider had been found guilty in the preliminary inquiry.

    However, the complainant’s lawyer argued that the investigation was deeply flawed, raising concerns about how Rajab Butt and Man Dogar were cleared of charges. The court has now asked the authorities to explain the basis for their release.

    The news of his son’s birth is yet to be confirmed till the time of reporting this video.

  • Trump to impose $100,000 annual fee for H-1B worker visas

    Trump to impose $100,000 annual fee for H-1B worker visas

    The Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) has said it plans to require companies to pay a staggering $100,000 a year for H-1B worker visas, a move that could potentially impact the technology industry, which depends heavily on skilled workers from India and China.

    India was the largest beneficiary of H-1B visas last year, accounting for around 71 per cent of approved beneficiaries while China was a distant second at about 11.7 per cent, said reports, citing government data.

    The H-1B programme offers 65,000 visas annually to employers bringing in temporary foreign workers in specialised fields along with an additional 20,000 visas for those holding advanced degrees.

    Trump’s threat to crack down on H-1B visas has become a major flashpoint with the tech industry that contributed millions of dollars to his presidential campaign.

    “If you’re going to train somebody, you’re going to train one of the recent graduates from one of the great universities across our land. Train Americans. Stop bringing in people to take our jobs,” Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said.

    After the announcement of the new fees, Microsoft and JPMorgan advised employees holding such visas to stay in the US, Reuters reported citing an internal email.

    They also advised employees on the H-1B visas outside the US to return before midnight on Saturday when the new fee structures are set to take effect.

    While many technology workers maintain that the visa policy allows firms to suppress wages and sideline Americans who could do the jobs, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, among others, argued it brings in highly skilled workers essential to filling talent gaps and keeping firms competitive. Musk, himself a naturalised US citizen born in South Africa, has held an H-1B visa.


    According to Deedy Das, partner at venture capital firm Menlo Ventures, said the new fees “create disincentive to attract the world’s smartest talent to the US”.

    “If the US ceases to attract the best talent, it drastically reduces its ability to innovate and grow the economy,” Das said in a post on X.

    Meanwhile, reports said that the move could add millions of dollars in costs for companies, which could hit smaller tech firms and startups particularly hard.

  • Luv Di Saun poster shows Farhan Saeed, Mamya Shajaffar looking their absolute best

    Luv Di Saun poster shows Farhan Saeed, Mamya Shajaffar looking their absolute best

    ARY Films has officially revealed the first poster of its upcoming romantic drama Luv Di Saun, starring singer-turned-actor Farhan Saeed and rising star Mamya Shajaffar in lead roles.

    The film, which promises an intense and emotionally charged love story, is directed by Irfan Malik and jointly presented by Pervez Malik Films, ARY Films, and Salman Iqbal.

    Taking to Instagram, ARY Films shared the poster with the caption: “The wait is over! Presenting the official poster of Luv di Saun — an intense love story where passion collides with destiny. Love knows no limits. Are you ready?”

    The poster depicts Farhan Saeed sitting on a Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle, while Mamya Shajaffar, dressed in a golden shimmery gown, sits back-to-back with him, hinting at a tale of love constrained by societal boundaries. The visual tone and styling suggest a story set against a backdrop of cultural conflict and deep emotional stakes.

    Director Irfan Malik also posted the poster on his official account, describing the film as: “Luv di Saun — an unforgettable journey of passion, sacrifice, and soul-deep connection. Here’s the official poster of a love story like no other.”

    Adding to the excitement, veteran actor and producer Humayun Saeed also shared the poster, writing: “Looking forward to this one! Releasing soon in cinemas.”

    Farhan Saeed, known for his performances in both television and music, returns to the silver screen in a more intense and dramatic avatar. Meanwhile, Mamya Shajaffar, who transitioned from modeling to acting, has been gaining acclaim for her roles in TV dramas Faraar, Jaan Se Pyara Juni and Jhok Sarkar. Luv Di Saun marks a significant step in her cinematic journey.

    With the poster now revealed and anticipation building, fans can expect a release date announcement soon as the film gears up for its theatrical debut.

  • PTI distances itself from petition seeking conjugal rights for jailed Imran Khan, wife

    PTI distances itself from petition seeking conjugal rights for jailed Imran Khan, wife

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has condemned and dissociated itself from a petition for conjugal rights recently filed in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in the name of incarcerated former premier Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi.

    “PTI, with deep regret and grave concern, clarifies that the petition filed in the Islamabad High Court under the names of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his respected wife, Bushra Bibi, regarding ‘Conjugal Rights’ has no connection whatsoever with Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi, their family, PTI, or their legal team,” said the PTI central information department in a statement issued on Friday.

    The statement further noted that the petition was filed by an individual named Shahid Yaqoob, who has no association with Imran Khan, his family, or any member of PTI. 

    In the statement, PTI declared the act “utterly deplorable, obscene, and vile,” adding that the party considers it not only morally unacceptable but also lacking any political or legal basis.

    “PTI strongly condemns such activities and requests the public and media not to associate any unverified claims in this matter with PTI or its leadership.”

    The statement concluded by clarifying that the defence of the rights and dignity of Imran Khan and his wife is being undertaken by PTI and their legal team, and “this shameful and condemnable act by an unrelated party is disgraceful”.

    The petition was filed on Friday under Article 199 of the Constitution by Yaqoob, a resident of Islamabad and a supporter of Khan, in the IHC, seeking permission for the founder of PTI and Bushra Bibi to exercise their conjugal rights while confined in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi.

    In the petition, Yaqoob argued that denying conjugal rights violates constitutional protections, international conventions, and previous court rulings. The plea referred to the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the European Convention on Human Rights, all of which safeguard the right to family life.

    The petitioner also cited a 2010 notification issued by the Sindh Home Department, following Supreme Court directions, which allowed convicted prisoners to have conjugal visits every three months.

    It further relied on the Federal Shariat Court’s landmark judgement that recognised conjugal rights for prisoners as a fundamental entitlement and requested the IHC to order the implementation of SC and Federal Shariat Court directives.

  • ‘Nearly 18 years after Om Shanti Om’: Shah Rukh, Deepika reunite for 6th film

    ‘Nearly 18 years after Om Shanti Om’: Shah Rukh, Deepika reunite for 6th film

    Nearly 18 years after they first lit up the cinema screen together in Om Shanti Om, Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone are set to reunite for their sixth film, a high-octane action-thriller titled King, directed by Siddharth Anand.

    The announcement has sent waves of excitement across Bollywood and among fans around the world, as the duo’s on-screen chemistry has consistently been a winning formula at the box office.

    Deepika confirmed the news via Instagram, sharing a behind-the-scenes glimpse with a touching message: “He taught me that the experience of making a movie, and the people you make it with, matter far more than its success.” The message was a tribute to Shah Rukh Khan, who played a key role in launching her career with their debut film together.

    Directed by Siddharth Anand, known for helming major action hits like Pathaan and War, King is already one of the most anticipated projects of 2026. While details about the plot remain under wraps, reports suggest the film will feature Shah Rukh in a gritty, intense role unlike anything he’s done before. Deepika is expected to play a central character with strong emotional and action-driven arcs, adding yet another layer to their dynamic partnership on screen.

    This marks the sixth collaboration between the two actors, whose previous films together include Om Shanti Om (2007), Chennai Express (2013), Happy New Year (2014), Pathaan (2023), and Jawan (2023)—the last of which featured Deepika in an extended cameo. Over the years, their pairing has become successful and fan-favorite.

    King also marks a new chapter in Indian cinema’s growing trend of high-budget action thrillers with strong lead characters and global appeal. With Anand at the helm and two of the industry’s biggest stars leading the cast, expectations are sky-high.

    According to IMDb, the film will mark the return of Rani Mukerji in a much-awaited comeback. Joining the roster are seasoned actors like Anil Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Jackie Shroff, Arshad Warsi, and rising talents such as Raghav Juyal and Jaideep Ahlawat.

    Notably, King will also feature Shah Rukh Khan’s daughter Suhana Khan in what is expected to be her first major theatrical role following her debut in The Archies on OTT.

  • Old Pakistani drama clip goes viral, prompts audiences to slam new serials

    Old Pakistani drama clip goes viral, prompts audiences to slam new serials

    A clip from a classic television serial staring the late Khalida Riyasat has gone viral on X (formerly Twitter), giving birth to the realisation that current serials are just not as good as the oldies.

    The viral clip from the serial Parosi features a conversation between the legendary Khalida Riyasat and her on-screen grandmother in a scene that has deeply resonated with audiences for its emotional depth and powerful dialogues.

    Social media users are showering praise on the drama’s writing, acting, and direction, calling it a true representation of meaningful storytelling that once defined Pakistani television. “Writers, actors, directors… it was wholesome all round,” one user commented. Another added, “These were real dramas; what we see today is complete trash.”

    Many users expressed their admiration for the way old dramas like Parosi reflected cultural values, taught moral lessons, and left a lasting emotional impact. “Life was so serene and restful. PTV dramas were at the pinnacle of glory. Every dialogue carried a deep thought,” one viewer wrote, reminiscing about a bygone era.

    “Beautiful and meaningful script,” added one user while another said: “Now we have a cringe content creators.”

    Parosi, which originally aired in 1990 on NTM, was written by the iconic Haseena Moin and directed by Raana Sheikh. The show featured an impressive cast, including Khalida Riyasat, Marina Khan, and Badar Khalil, among others. It is widely remembered for its relatable characters, witty dialogue, and strong storytelling, elements that many feel are missing in today’s television landscape.

    “In a time when stories touched the soul and characters felt like family, Parosi remains a beautiful reminder of when drama was not just entertainment — it was art,” one user said.

  • Girls shine, Punjab Group of Colleges among private colleges dominate Intermediate Part II results

    Girls shine, Punjab Group of Colleges among private colleges dominate Intermediate Part II results

    In affirmation of academic excellence, private colleges have emerged as a dominant force, securing 283 of the top 335 positions in the 2025 Punjab Boards Intermediate Part II results that were officially unveiled on September 18.

    As per the details, private colleges secured an impressive 84% share in top positions announced by ten Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISEs), including Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan and the federal board.

    Among them, Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) stood out as the undisputed leader, clinching 143 top spots, which accounts for 51% of all private educational institutions positions.

    Meanwhile, the passing percentage in Lahore stood at 60.86% in the board-wise result analysis. The same was reported as 73.71% in Faisalabad, 63.10% in Gujranwala, 68.83% in Sargodha, 54.12% in Rawalpindi, 63.54% in Multan, 63.53% in Bahawalpur and 58.88% in Sahiwal. As many as 74.86% students passed in Dera Ghazi Khan and 81.10% in the federal board.

    Government and semi-government institutions, by comparison, secured 52 positions, making it 16%.

    Female students once again outshone their male counterparts across all academic streams, both regular and private. This consistent trend reinforces the growing academic prowess of young women in Punjab and highlights the shifting dynamics in educational achievements.

    With girls leading the charge and private institutions setting new standards, the 2025 results paint a promising picture for the future of education in the province.

  • Restoration of damaged undersea internet cables could take four to five weeks: IT secy

    Restoration of damaged undersea internet cables could take four to five weeks: IT secy

    Information Technology (IT) Secretary Zarrar Hasham has informed the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication that restoration work on damaged undersea internet cables could take four to five weeks.

    In response to a question about slow internet and service outages across the country, Hasham said that multiple cables had been severed off the Yemeni coast, resulting in connectivity issues. “Not just one or two but four or five cables have been cut,” he told the meeting held at Islamabad’s IT Park.

    “The issue is serious considering the situation in Yemen. Two cables coming to Pakistan have been affected,” Hasham said and added that bandwidth had been temporarily diverted to other networks.

    “Repairing the cables may take four to five weeks,” he said, noting that special boats would be required to carry out the work.

    Hasham also confirmed that three new cables were coming in the next 12 to 18 months, which would provide connectivity to Pakistan from Europe. “Agreements have been made to bring these three cables to Pakistan.”

    Damage to undersea cables has caused widespread disruptions in Pakistan’s internet services. The Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) warned earlier this month that internet service during peak hours may be impacted by submarine cable cuts in Saudi waters. 

    Partial bandwidth capacity on the India-Middle East-Western Europe (IMEWE) and South Asia-Middle East-West Asia (SMW4) networks has been affected by the damage.

  • Imran Khan wrote THIS legendary cricketer’s name on a pillow, punched it hard after India loss

    Imran Khan wrote THIS legendary cricketer’s name on a pillow, punched it hard after India loss

    Former cricketer and ex-Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ramiz Raja has said that Imran Khan wrote a legendary cricketer’s name on the pillow and punched it hard when the latter got out against India, leading Pakistan to lose a One Day International (ODI) match. 

    “We played six ODIs and won five of them in India. We lost [a] match when Abdul Qadir got out [at the moment] when the score was level,” he said while appearing on a private media outlet on Wednesday, adding that, despite the match being tied, India won as Pakistan lost more wickets than India.

    Raja said Khan told Abdul Qadir, “I wrote your name on the pillow and punched it hard,” leaving the host in stitches.

    He was referring to Pakistan’s visit to India in 1987, when both teams played six ODIs. Pakistan lost only one match, played on March 20 in Hyderabad, with a score of 212/7. Despite the match being tied, India won, as it had lost only six wickets.

    In that series, Abdul Qadir was the second-highest wicket-taker (eight). Meanwhile, Javed Miandad was the leading scorer with 229 runs.

    Responding to the Indian media reports suggesting that if India wins the final of the Asia Cup 2025, the team perhaps would not take the winning trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Raja described the idea as “meaningless” and went on to say that he has no idea about such a development.

    Ramiz Raja’s remarks came in the backdrop of September 14’s Pakistan-India clash in the Men’s Asia Cup in Dubai, when the former lost by seven wickets.

    Pakistan will face India again on September 21, as both teams have qualified for the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup.