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Author: News Desk

  • U.S State Department sidesteps question about Imran Khan

    U.S State Department sidesteps question about Imran Khan

    U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce sidestepped a journalist’s question about former premier Imran Khan’s incarceration during a briefing held on Thursday. 

    Frontier Post associated journalist Jalil Afridi asked Bruce two questions, one focused on inquiring whether the US administration officially thanked Pakistan for its role in facilitating the arrest of the alleged Kabul Airport suicide bomber mastermind Mohammad Sharifullah.

    He then went on to inquire, “Is the President aware that the most popular leader of Pakistan, Imran Khan, has been in jail for the last three years now, and a lot of atrocities have happened? Is the president at all interested in paying a little attention to Pakistan?”

    The U.S. State Department spokesperson, while sidestepping the second question, said, “I will answer that with noting that in his address to Congress, the president announced the arrest of ISIS-K operative, planned and responsible for killing 13 brave American service members and over 160 Afghan citizens at Abbey Gate.”

    The spokesperson further said that the US extended gratitude to the government of Pakistan, adding that the US did collaborate in bringing Mohammad Sharifullah to justice.

    Underscoring the significance of the PAK-U.S. relationship in terms of combating terrorism, Bruce said that both countries have a common interest in fighting against terrorism, noting that the arrest of the terrorist illustrated that the Pak-U.S. cooperation on counterterrorism remains “vitally important.”

    Speaking to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump had thanked Pakistan for its role in arresting the alleged mastermind behind the 2021 Kabul Airport bombing, Sharifuulah, also known as Jafar.

    “Three and a half years ago, ISIS terrorists killed 13 American service members and many others during the Abbey Gate bombing. Tonight, I am pleased to announce that we have apprehended the top terrorist responsible for that atrocity, and he is now on his way to face American justice. I especially want to thank the Government of Pakistan for helping to arrest this monster,” Trump had said while announcing the arrest and imminent extradition of the suspect.

    On August 26, 2021, a suicide bombing at Abbey Gate of Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul during the final days of the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan killed 13 American soldiers and at least 113 Afghan civilians. Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K) had claimed responsibility for the attack.

    According to media reports, suspect Sharifullah was produced in a Virginia courtroom Wednesday for trial. Sharifullah was told that if proven guilty, he would face lifetime imprisonment.

  • ‘Don’t know how many Tests have you played’: Basit Ali mocks Babar Azam’s father

    ‘Don’t know how many Tests have you played’: Basit Ali mocks Babar Azam’s father

    Former cricketer Basit Ali has stated that he was unaware of Babar Azam’s father’s involvement in his cricketing career and has urged him to help Babar improve his batting technique.  

    Speaking on ARY’s program, Har Lamha Purjosh, the former Test batter, said, “We didn’t know that Babar Azam’s coach is his father. It’s a good thing that his father is coaching him, but I request him to work on Babar’s technique.”

    He emphasised that fixing technical issues is in Babar’s hands, adding, “We wish him well. When Babar was the captain, Usama Mir’s name was not even considered for the T20 World Cup.”

    He further pointed out that Usama Mir had performed exceptionally well in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) but was overlooked for selection. “Usama Mir’s parents must have prayed for him too. His family must have felt heartbroken when he was dropped from the squad,” he said.

    “Every player’s parents pray for them and also feel disappointed when things don’t go their way. All cricketers should be given equal opportunities in the national team,” he added.

    Meanwhile, former wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal also weighed in on the matter, stating, “Every father loves his son. Some fathers openly express their feelings, while others leave it to fate. Babar needs to improve himself further, according to modern-day cricket. Posting statements after a player is dropped is not a good practice.”

    He further criticised social media posts made by players’ family members, saying, “When a player’s father or brother makes such posts, it disrespects the institution. The people Babar’s father is referring to have always supported him.”

    A day earlier, Babar Azam’s father, Azam Siddique, defended his son amid widespread criticism over his recent poor performances, particularly during the Champions Trophy.

    In a social media statement, Siddique addressed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to rest Babar for the upcoming series against New Zealand, emphasizing that his son was dropped despite being named in the ICC T20 Team of the Year.

    He assured fans that Babar would make a strong comeback through performances in the National T20 Cup and PSL and urged former cricketers to be mindful of their words. “I request ex-players to choose their words carefully. If someone responds, you may not be able to tolerate it. You are the past and will never play again,” he wrote.

    Siddique also responded to criticism regarding his public support for Babar. “People say ‘the father’ talks too much. I am Babar’s first and last coach. I am his spokesperson and mentor. Above all, I am his well-wishing father.”

    Taking a swipe at critics, he added, “Those who are making noise should check their performances from their playing days. Just visit PCB’s website once—hints are enough for the wise.”

  • Here’s why Virat Kohli blocked Glenn Maxwell on Instagram

    Here’s why Virat Kohli blocked Glenn Maxwell on Instagram

    Australia’s Glenn Maxwell has shared a funny story about how Indian cricket star Virat Kohli once blocked him on Instagram. The two players, who have now forged a close friendship  after playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, didn’t always get along.

    When RCB bought Maxwell for INR 14.25 crore ahead of IPL 2021 season, he had an impressive run, scoring over 500 runs and helping the team reach the playoffs.

    Maxwell, Kohli, and former RCB player AB de Villiers formed a powerful trio in the IPL, with their friendship was evident on the field. However, there was a time when things weren’t so friendly between them.

    In an interview in October 2024, Maxwell opened up about how Kohli had once blocked him on Instagram after an on-field incident in 2017. When he joined RCB, he tried to follow Kohli on Instagram but couldn’t find his profile.

    Maxwell recalled, “When I knew I was going to RCB, Virat was the first guy to message me and welcome me to the team. When I arrived for the pre-IPL training camp, we started chatting and spent a lot of time training together. Then I thought of following him on social media, but I couldn’t find his profile.”

    He continued, “I thought maybe he wasn’t active on Instagram, but then someone told me that if you can’t find someone, it usually means they’ve blocked you. I was like, ‘Surely not!’”

    “Then I went and asked him, ‘Have you blocked me on Instagram?’ And he was like, ‘Yeah, probably. It was when you mocked me during that Test match. I think I got the sh* and decided to block you.’** I was like, ‘Yeah, that’s fair enough.’ So, he unblocked me, and we became great friends after that,” Maxwell shared with a laugh.

    Despite their past differences, the two have since developed a strong friendship and played key roles in RCB’s success. However, after a disappointing IPL 2024 season, where Maxwell managed just 52 runs, his stint with RCB came to an end.

    Maxwell is now set to play for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025.

  • Digitial inclusion must give women agency, not just access: Jazz CEO

    Digitial inclusion must give women agency, not just access: Jazz CEO

    In today’s digital world, access to technology is a key driver of economic and social progress. Yet, millions of women, particularly in developing economies, remain excluded.


    Speaking at MWC 2025 in Barcelona during a session titled “When Women are Connected”, Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz, challenged the audience to rethink digital equity. He stressed that recognizing the gender digital divide is just the beginning, but real change requires intent, commitment, and the ability to execute.


    He was joined by a panel featuring Fawzia Ali-Kimanthi, Chief Consumer Business Officer at Safaricom; Jamie Zimmerman, Deputy Director of Digital Connectivity at the Gates Foundation; and Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion at GSMA, who moderated the discussion.


    Aamir emphasized that digital inclusion must go beyond access and enable women with agency and advancement in the digital economy. He noted that in many cultures, men act as gatekeepers, and it is crucial to empower women through digital safety and financial independence rather than reinforcing existing barriers.


    While mobile technology can be a catalyst for women’s financial and social empowerment, true transformation requires affordable digital tools, financial security, and digital literacy. Aamir urged policymakers and tech leaders to build security-first platforms tailored for women, ensuring that digital access translates into meaningful participation.


    Globally, 327 million fewer women than men have access to smartphones and mobile internet, according to the OECD. In Pakistan, barriers such as high device costs, limited financial access, safety concerns, and patriarchal restrictions continue to hinder women’s digital participation, as reported by the PTA and Global Gender Gap Report 2024.


    To address these challenges, Aamir proposed targeted interventions, including subsidized smartphones and connectivity plans, financial literacy programs, and economic opportunities for women in digital spaces. He stressed that financial inclusion is not just about transactions but about transformation, ensuring that digital tools help women gain control rather than lose it.


    Jazz is actively working to increase women’s digital participation through initiatives such as JazzCash’s financial inclusion programs, digital literacy efforts for girls, and support for women-led startups. Aamir reiterated that enabling women to access health, financial, and other life-enhancing services through mobile broadband is central to Jazz’s mission.


    He concluded with a call to action for industry leaders to move beyond access and focus on ownership. When women have digital and financial control, they reshape the economy on their terms.

  • 0 km vs 7,048 km: Fans, cricketers speak out against India’s Dubai advantage at Champions Trophy

    0 km vs 7,048 km: Fans, cricketers speak out against India’s Dubai advantage at Champions Trophy

    The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has been marred by logistical challenges due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan.

    As a result, a hybrid model was adopted, with India’s matches being played in Dubai while other teams had to shuttle between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) multiple times besides playing matches in different Pakistani cities. This travel-heavy schedule has sparked debates about fairness, with players expressing concerns over fatigue and competitive disadvantages.

    Based on a report by the Reddit page r/Cricket (1.7 million members), here is how much teams travelled during the event, and the disparity is striking.

    India: 0 KM (All matches played in Dubai)
    England & Afghanistan: 1,020 km 
    Bangladesh: 1,953 km
    Australia: 2,509 km
    Pakistan: 3,133 km
    South Africa: 3,286 km
    New Zealand: 7,048 km

    While finalists New Zealand, in particular, faced the biggest travel burden, covering over 7,000 km, India made it to the final, comfortably in Dubai without any travel stress.

    Pakistan, despite being the official host, had to travel over 3,100 km, while Australia also endured over 2,500 km of travel before the crucial knockout matches.

    Australian captain Pat Cummins has openly commented on the situation, suggesting that India’s fixed location gave them an advantage over other teams.

    He criticised the arrangement, calling it a major advantage for India. “I think it’s great that the tournament is moving forward, but India playing all their matches at one venue gives them a big edge,” he said.

    Similar concerns were echoed by other players, with South African and New Zealand cricketers reportedly frustrated over the constant back-and-forth movement. A level playing field should have been ensured by either having all teams travel equally or keeping the entire tournament in one country, reports quoted them as saying.

    Frequent travel not only affects player performance but also adds logistical and security complications. Teams had to adjust to different pitches, climates and conditions while battling fatigue. 

    With the Champions Trophy nearing its climax, the debate around India’s home-like advantage remains a hot topic.

  • Green TV criticized for dehumanizing dwarfism in Ishq Di Chashni

    Green TV criticized for dehumanizing dwarfism in Ishq Di Chashni

    Green TV Entertainment has come under fire for its portrayal of an actor with dwarfism in the Ramazan show Ishq Di Chashni. While the channel removed some controversial scenes after being slammed for the depiction, other questionable moments still remain in the show.

    The drama follows the love story of two chefs with an enemies-to-lovers twist. Khushhal Khan’s character Sherry has a friend named Rasgullah who lives with him.

    In the first episode, Sherry picks up Rasgullah, spins him around, and seats him on his lap, treating him like a child. Social media users quickly called out the strange behavior, saying it was disrespectful and dehumanizing.

    The actor playing Rasgullah is not credited in the cast list, and his name is hard to find online.

    Content creator Nadia Rehman Butt criticized the show in a viral video, saying, “He’s a human, not a doll or a teddy bear!” She highlighted how such actions encourage bullying of people with dwarfism.

    Many viewers expressed outrage, saying such scenes reduce people with dwarfism to props. One user wrote, “This is outdated and insensitive. It’s wrong to use someone’s appearance as comedy.”

    Another commented, “Why treat a grown man like a child? It’s disturbing and unnecessary.”


    After backlash, Green TV removed the scene where Sherry swings Rasgullah around, but aome fans noted that other problematic moments are still in the show.


    For example, in one scene, a character assumes Rasgullah is a child because of his height and gives him a lollipop, further reinforcing stereotypes.

    These scenes continue to portray the actor as a comedic device, rather than as a person deserving respect.

  • Shehzad Roy plays chess with ‘Queen of the Mountains’ Malala Yousafzai

    Shehzad Roy plays chess with ‘Queen of the Mountains’ Malala Yousafzai

    Renowned singer and social activist Shehzad Roy recently shared a glimpse of his meeting with Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai, posting a picture of their chess match on Instagram.

    Recalling the experience, Shehzad Roy revealed that he spent the day with Malala and her family—including her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, mother, Tor Pekai, and husband, Asser Malik—at their native village, Barkana Shapur, in Shangla District.

    The singer captioned his post with a reference to the popular chess move, writing, “I played the Queen’s Gambit with the Queen of the Mountains, Malala.”

    Shehzad Roy also took this opportunity to highlight the power of education, mentioning Zindagi Trust student Mehak Maqbool, who recently became the Under-18 National Chess Champion.

    He emphasised, “This proves that when given the opportunity, our girls can compete and win. Quality education is the real game changer.”

    Roy asserted that education creates champions, breaks barriers, and transforms dreams into reality. “When obstacles in the way of education are removed, names like Malala and Mehak shine through,” he added.

  • Mommy-to-be Kiara Advani steps back from Don 3

    Mommy-to-be Kiara Advani steps back from Don 3

    Bollywood star Kiara Advani, who is expecting her first child with her husband, actor Sidharth Malhotra, has reportedly opted out of Farhan Akhtar’s highly anticipated film Don 3, starring Ranveer Singh.

    Indian media reported that Kiara was confirmed as the female lead in the movie last February but decided to step back from the project after announcing her pregnancy. The decision was reportedly mutual between Kiara and the film’s makers, allowing her to focus on her personal life during this special phase.

    Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment announced in 2023 that Ranveer Singh would replace Shah Rukh Khan as Don in the final film of the series, The Chase Ends. Kiara Advani was then cast as the female lead in the action thriller.

    Meanwhile, Bollywood’s power couple, Kiara and Sidharth, who tied the knot in February 2023, shared the news of their pregnancy last month.

  • Quality steel, global reach: ISL’s Saudi success story

    Quality steel, global reach: ISL’s Saudi success story

    International Steels Limited (ISL) is making significant strides in Saudi Arabia’s construction sector.

    With successful appearances at some of Saudi Arabia’s biggest construction shows, including consecutive appearances at the Big 5 Construct Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Build, ISL has not only strengthened its presence in the region but also secured vendor registration for multiple high-profile Saudi Giga-Projects, showcasing the company’s commitment to quality and innovation.

    Pakistan’s Flat Steel Powerhouse Expands into Saudi Arabia’s Giga Projects

    Strengthening Ties with Saudi Arabia at Big 5 Construct Saudi Arabia 2025

    Big 5 Construct Saudi Arabia is the largest construction industry event in the Kingdom, bringing together global leaders, suppliers, and developers. ISL’s second consecutive participation at this prestigious event in 2025 underscored its commitment to the Saudi market. The company leveraged this opportunity to network with major players in the construction sector, demonstrating how its high-quality flat steel solutions align with Saudi Arabia’s infrastructural ambitions.

    A key enabler of ISL’s successful market entry has been its SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization) Saudi Quality Mark certification, which has facilitated seamless integration into the Saudi construction supply chain. By meeting the rigorous standards set by the Saudi Quality Mark, ISL demonstrates its commitment to high-quality production and safety.

    ISL’s Commitment to Quality: International Certifications & Advanced Solutions

    ISL’s reputation as a premier flat steel supplier is backed by its extensive portfolio of international certifications, including:

    • ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management Systems)
    • ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management Systems)
    • CE Certification (European Conformity)
    • RoHS Compliance (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
    • SASO Certification (Saudi Quality Mark)
    • REACH Compliance (European Chemical Safety Regulation)

    These certifications reflect ISL’s commitment to upholding the highest standards in steel manufacturing, ensuring superior product quality, sustainability, and customer confidence. The SASO Quality Mark, in particular, has played a crucial role in reinforcing ISL’s reputation for quality and helping secure both local and international business opportunities. This mark serves as a trusted indicator of product excellence and reliability. By meeting the rigorous standards set by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, ISL demonstrates its commitment to high-quality production, safety, and environmental compliance. This not only builds customer confidence and trust but also distinguishes ISL in the competitive landscape of the Gulf region.

    Beyond supplying premium flat steel, ISL also provides value-added solutions through its state-of-the-art service center. The company offers customized profiling, C-Channels, and C&Z purlins—essential components in modern construction. These advanced solutions enable clients to optimize structural efficiency and reduce construction lead times.

    ISL Secures Vendor Registration for Saudi Arabia’s Giga-Projects

    The recognition of ISL as an approved vendor for multiple Saudi Giga-Projects marks a significant milestone in the company’s regional expansion. These landmark developments are integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy and transforming the country into a global hub for tourism, entertainment, and sustainable urban living.

    Within this dynamic environment, ISL’s vendor registration for Saudi Arabia’s flagship Giga Projects stands as a testament to its reliability, quality, and competitive edge. Its inclusion in these landmark projects not only reinforces the commitment towards excellence but also aligns with the strategic goal of Vision 2030.

    Saudi Giga-Projects: Transforming the Future of the Kingdom

    Saudi Arabia’s Giga-Projects represent some of the most ambitious developments globally, driving economic growth and shaping the Kingdom’s future. These projects include:

    • NEOM: Covering over 10,200 square miles, NEOM is an ultra-modern smart city powered by renewable energy. It includes The Line (a 170-km-long linear city), Oxagon (a high-tech industrial hub), Trojena (a futuristic ski resort), and Sindalah (a luxury island destination).

    • Red Sea Global: Spanning 28,000 sq. km, this sustainable tourism initiative features pristine islands, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class hotels, set to attract high-end travelers.

    • Qiddiya: A 360 sq. km entertainment and leisure hub featuring Six Flags Qiddiya City, esports facilities, concert venues, and adventure parks. It is expected to generate $36 billion in GDP and create 325,000 jobs.

    • ROSHN: Focused on housing development, ROSHN is committed to increasing Saudi homeownership rates. Projects like SEDRA, WAREFA, and ALAROUS are designed with a blend of traditional and modern architecture.

    • King Salman Park & Murabba: These projects exemplify Saudi Arabia’s ambitious urban expansion, incorporating green spaces and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

    ISL: Delivering Pakistan’s Best to the World

    As Pakistan’s largest flat steel manufacturer, ISL is proud to bring world-class expertise, innovation, and quality to Saudi Arabia’s construction sector.

    The deep-rooted partnership between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is further strengthened by ISL’s approval as a vendor for Saudi Arabia’s prestigious Giga Projects. This milestone underscores both ISL’s commitment to quality and the robust economic collaboration between the two countries. ISL’s role as a trusted supplier for Saudi Vision 2030 demonstrates Pakistan’s growing contribution to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious development agenda. Known for its premium flat steel products, global certifications, regional presence, and innovative spirit, ISL is poised to be a key, dependable supplier for Saudi Arabia, reinforcing a relationship built on trust and shared vision.

    For product and service details, visit www.isl.com.pk/inquiries.

    International Steels Limited – Shaping Tomorrow

  • Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza clashes with Imran Riaz over Imran Khan

    Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza clashes with Imran Riaz over Imran Khan

    Religious scholar and popular cleric Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza has hit back at YouTuber Imran Riaz Khan for criticising him over his opinions about former Premier Imran Khan. 

    In a video posted on his YouTube channel on Wednesday, Mirza denounced Riaz’s allegations that he had attacked Imran Khan’s personal character and clarified that he was talking about the political character of the jailed ex-Prime Minister. 

    “I had talked about Imran Khan’s political character in terms of his U-turn; however, you [Imran Riaz] misinterpreted it as a personal attack on Imran Khan,” he clarified.

    Ten days back, former TV host Imran Riaz had accused Mirza of the character assassination of Imran Khan in his vlog. “You [Engineer Mohammad Ali Mirza] are doing character assassination of Imran Khan. Have you looked into his heart to see how close he is to Allah,” questioned Riaz. 

    While demanding an apology from Riaz, Mirza accused the latter of being involved in facilitating the disappearance of civilians with the assistance of former intelligence chief General (retd) Faiz Hameed.

    Responding to Riaz’s claims, the religious scholar pointed out that he had publicly condemned the attack on former premier Imran Khan during a PTI convoy in Wazirabad in 2023, adding that he had also spoken about the February 8, 2024, general elections in Pakistan.

    Asserting that Riaz has deliberately crafted a controversy to divert public attention and not be labeled an “absconder”, Mirza advised his students not to fall victim to the half-truth information spread by the former TV host through his vlogs.

    Mirza explained, “In the 2013 election, I not only voted for Imran Khan but also got 1,000 people to vote for him,” adding that when Imran Khan climbed onto a containers in 2014 [for a sit-in], he distanced himself from PTI, understanding that the party had aligned itself with the establishment.

    In response to Mirza’s statement, Riaz posted his own vlog on Wednesday, stating that Mirza was very eager to meet Imran during his premiership in 2020-2021. He also called out Mirza for being a “hypocrite.”

    Meanwhile, the religious scholar concluded his response by saying that he was ready to entertain ex-TV host Aftab Iqbal’s offer to address the row on Skype. “I accept the offer; now, don’t run away,” Mirza challenged the YouTuber.

    The verbal clash began after the former TV host uploaded a vlog on his YouTuber Channel 10 days ago, lambasting a short clip of Mirza in which the latter gives his opinion on a vast range of issues in Pakistani politics.

    Mirza, a resident of Machine Mohallah of Jhelum City, maintained that the clip on which Riaz did a vlog decrying him was actually recorded months ago.