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  • ‘False-flag’: Someone is trying to frame Iran with unclaimed strikes on Turkiye, UK base

    ‘False-flag’: Someone is trying to frame Iran with unclaimed strikes on Turkiye, UK base

    Someone is trying to frame Tehran for unclaimed strikes and drone attacks on Turkiye and at least one United Kingdom (UK) military base in Cyprus, it has emerged.

    As per the details, the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) has quoted senior military leadership as saying that Iran did not carry out any missile strikes in Turkiye as the country respects its sovereignty.

    The clarification came hours after the UK’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that a Shahed-like drone that targeted Royal Air Force’s (RAF) Akrotiri base in Cyprus on March 2 was not launched from Iranian territory. 

    The ministry added that RAF Typhoon and F-35B jets continued defensive air operations across the Middle East, supported by Voyager air-to-air refuelling, and that the UK had resupplied air defence systems to British and allied bases.

    Royal Navy Wildcat helicopters armed with Martlet missiles are also expected to arrive in Cyprus in the coming days.

    Amid confusion over unclaimed strikes, American commentator Tucker Carlson has claimed that Mossad operatives were arrested in Qatar and Saudi Arabia while planning bombings, suggesting these operations could be aimed at creating disorder and framing Iran to draw Gulf states further into conflict.

    Saudi experts told Al Arabiya News that Mossad agents had been arrested in both countries and were reportedly planning false-flag bombings to involve the Gulf states in war with Iran.

    Earlier, Iranian officials, quoted by Middle East Eye, also said that some attacks on Gulf energy sites, including oil refineries and ports, were carried out by Israel to provoke Gulf countries. 

    The reports also sent social media intro frenzy as thousands on X claimed Israel was covertly launching suicide drones targeting Gulf countries and NATO, intending to blame Iran.

    Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Esmail Baghaei also told Drop Site that Israel had historically used such tactics to involve other nations in conflict, citing a high probability of misuse in the current situation. 

    Cypriot officials suggested the Akrotiri drone (an Iranian-designed Shahed type) was most likely launched by Hezbollah from Lebanon rather than Iran.

  • Saba Hameed opens up about ‘hard slap’ to Hiba Bukhari for Fitoor

    Saba Hameed opens up about ‘hard slap’ to Hiba Bukhari for Fitoor

    Veteran actor Saba Hameed has opened up about slapping co-star Hiba Bukhari during the filming of the drama Fitoor.

    Speaking as a guest on a Ramzan show, Hameed clarified that she did not actually slap co-actors in dramas. “I do not hit anyone for real in dramas because I am an expert at cheating shots.”

    However, she explained that in some cases, directors insist on realism.

    “But if the director repeatedly insists that a real slap is necessary, what can I do? It was their wish, so I had to slap her. I did slap her and later apologised because it was quite a hard slap. When asked to hit for real, I cannot cheat,” she added.

    Hameed emphasised that such situations are not ideal. “It is never good for any actor because, in the end, it is all just for a character.”

    Saba Hameed is a veteran of Pakistan’s television and film industry, with a career spanning nearly 40 years.  Some of her notable dramas include Family Front, Mere Hamsafar, Thakan, Lashkara, Pyaare Afzal, Ghisi Piti Mohabbat, the Baraat series, Sun Mere Dil, Dil Lagi, Noor Jehan and Laal Ishq.

    Recently, she received praise for her performance in Main Manto Nahi Hoon, and is currently appearing in drama serial Ishq, for which fans have highly appreciated her performance.

  • Adil Raja’s appeal in libel case rejected by UK court

    Adil Raja’s appeal in libel case rejected by UK court

    The Court of Appeal of England and Wales has refused permission for appeal in a libel case brought by former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) officer Rashid Naseer against former Pakistan Army major-turned-blogger Adil Raja, leaving in place a damages award of £50,000 and an injunction issued by the High Court.

    According to an order dated March 3, Lord Justice Warby dismissed Raja’s applications seeking to challenge a 2025 High Court judgement that held him liable for defamatory posts published on social media in June 2022.

    The case centres on nine posts in which Raja accused Naseer of involvement in election rigging, fraud, bribery, corruption and abuse of power.

    During the trial held in July 2025, the High Court considered whether the social media posts had caused “serious harm” to Naseer’s reputation under Section 1 of the Defamation Act 2013. The court also reviewed whether Raja’s claims could be protected under the public interest defence provided under Section 4 of the same law.

    In a reserved judgement issued on October 9 last year, the trial judge concluded that the requirement of serious harm had been met.

    The court subsequently ordered Raja to pay £50,000 in damages to Naseer. It also issued an injunction preventing him from repeating the allegations and directed that a summary of the judgement be published.

    Raja later sought permission to appeal the decision before the Court of Appeal. However, in the March 3 order, Lord Justice Warby rejected the applications and declined to grant permission to challenge the High Court ruling.

    With the refusal of permission to appeal, the earlier judgement awarding damages, issuing an injunction against further publication of the allegations, and requiring publication of a summary of the ruling remains in effect.

  • Bonanza Satrangi denies link with Maryam Hanif Balwani after she criticises Ali Khamenei

    Bonanza Satrangi denies link with Maryam Hanif Balwani after she criticises Ali Khamenei

    Clothing brand Bonanza Satrangi has issued a statement addressing screenshots circulating on social media showing Maryam Hanif Balwani’s controversial remarks about Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. 

    In a statement released on March 3, the brand said a woman had been falsely presenting herself as the CEO. “We are writing to address several screenshots which are currently circulating on social media. It has come to our attention that a female has been falsely claiming and impersonating to be the CEO of Bonanza Satrangi,” the company said.

    The brand stated that the individual had no link with the organisation. “This imposter is not our CEO, a member of our Board of Directors, or part of the company. They have no legal, professional, or contractual association with our organization in any capacity,” the statement said.

    The company also said it had distanced itself from remarks attributed to the account and that the matter had been reported to authorities.

    The clarification came after comments attributed online to a woman identified as Maryam Hanif Balwani circulated widely and drew criticism. In one of the posts being shared online, the statement read: “What do we mean by the Prime Minister of Iran? By the way, he/Shia was an enemy of Islam.”

    The remarks prompted responses from social media users, some of whom criticised the comments and linked them to the brand.

    One user wrote, “As CEO of Bonanza Satrangi, Maryam Hanif Balwani’s public remarks labeling Ali Khamenei an ‘enemy of Islam’ were irresponsible and divisive. Business leaders should promote unity, not sectarian tension.” Another post said, “This is being cited as an example of how some brands allegedly promote an international Yahoodi agenda.”

    Other reactions also called for a boycott of the brand. One post read, “How could you say word enemy for the most respectable person in the world millions of people love Ayatullah Khamenei who are you to judge anyone ?? Boycott her brand.”

    Following the backlash, Balwani posted a message saying her comments were being misinterpreted. “Some people are trying to harm my business by misinterpreting my words. I never called Khamenei a Jew. His statements have been against Sunnis, that is why we said that,” she wrote.

    She added, “Our family has made a lot of sacrifices to build this business. Please do not name our business. We apologize to every citizen of Pakistan. We sincerely apologize”

    The apology also drew criticism online, with several users saying it did not address the concerns raised by her earlier remarks. One user wrote, “This is not the way to apologise. You cannot hurt the sentiments of people and simply say sorry.” Another added, “We will still boycott your brand.”

    The brand’s statement also prompted reactions online. One user wrote, “Maryam Hanif Balwani is the daughter of Bonanza’s ex CEO why is this brand lying.”

    Another said, “Another shameful act is that they are lying and disowning her.” A third post read, “For first time in history a company disowned its own owner.”

  • People think I am married but I am still single: Ali Rehman Khan

    People think I am married but I am still single: Ali Rehman Khan

    Actor Ali Rehman Khan has clarified that he is not married and has no immediate plans to tie the knot.

    Speaking on a recent Ramzan show, Ali addressed questions about his marital status.  He said, “People think that I am getting married, or that I am already married.”

    When asked by the host what kind of a girl he wants, he responded, “I do not want any particular kind of girl. I am absolutely fine and single in life.”

    The host then asked what type of partner he prefers, whether a stay-at-home person or someone who works. He said, “I am very easy-going. I am fine with both.”

    When asked about physical appearance, he replied, “Definitely physical and mentality fifty-fifty.”

    He added that he sees marriage as a beautiful relationship and is open to it when he finds true love. “I believe marriage is a beautiful bond. As soon as I find true love, I will marry,” he commented. 

    Fans have speculated whether his close friend Nosrat Hidayatullah could be his future spouse, as pictures of the two have circulated widely on social media.

    Ali Rehman Khan began his career in theatre before moving to films and television dramas. He has established himself as one of the prominent bachelors in the Pakistani entertainment industry. 

    Some of his notable dramas include Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan, Tum Kon Piya, and Ehd-e-Wafa.

  • Punjab seeks Rs861m for new VIP jet operations

    Punjab seeks Rs861m for new VIP jet operations

    The Punjab government is expected to face higher expenses following the acquisition of a new VIP aircraft, the Gulfstream G500, reports quoted sources. 

    Sources have said that a summary seeking an additional Rs 861.5 million for VIP flight operations has been prepared. 

    The supplementary grant could cover operational and maintenance costs of the Gulfstream G500, including mandatory training in the United States (US) for pilots and engineers.


    Additional subscriptions and programs may cost around Rs 497.8 million, while insurance for the aircraft is expected to rise significantly compared to previous arrangements.

    To meet operational requirements, the Punjab government is reportedly planning to hire more chief mechanics and aircraft technicians. 


    Maintenance, cleaning, and other related costs for the Gulfstream G500 have also increased. On February 22, a newscaster on a private news channel presented a report on the preparation and purchase of the aircraft, highlighting the associated costs and operational requirements.

    Aviation sources said the government purchased a seven-year-old Gulfstream G500 with US registration N144S, valued at approximately Rs 1 billion. 


    Flight records indicate the aircraft arrived in Lahore on December 28 via North America and Egypt and remained grounded at Allama Iqbal Airport for about 40 days for refurbishment. Its first flight in Pakistan took place on February 6 from Lahore to Multan.


    The Gulfstream G500, built in 2019, is a long-range aircraft designed for heads of state and business executives. It can cover 8,334 kilometers in a single flight at speeds of 1,000 kilometers per hour and accommodates 13 passengers, according to the Gulfstream Aerospace website. 

    Local flights began on February 6, mostly under its registered call sign. Between February 10 and 12, it operated as “Punjab Two” from Lahore to Quetta and Lahore to Mianwali, and again on February 16 for a Lahore to Sialkot round trip.

  • ‘You said we can go to a homeless shelter’: Imad Wasim called out by ex-wife after ‘Baba loves you’ post

    ‘You said we can go to a homeless shelter’: Imad Wasim called out by ex-wife after ‘Baba loves you’ post

    Former Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim and his ex-wife Sannia Ashfaq are once again publicly feuding on social media following their recent separation after six years of marriage. 

    The couple, who married in 2019, have three children together.

    The latest controversy emerged on the occasion of their daughter Anaya’s fifth birthday. Imad Wasim shared a post wishing his daughter a happy birthday, writing, “Happy Birthday to my daughter, Baba loves you so much.”

    In response, Sania Ashfaq used her Instagram to share a message expressing her concern over the gap between public posts and private actions.

    “Happy 5th Birthday to my beautiful girl. You deserve a childhood filled with love, safety and stability. It is difficult seeing public messages of ‘Baba love you so much’ while, privately, agencies are being told that your mother and children can go to a homeless shelter because financial support will no longer be provided,” she wrote.

    She added, “Children deserve more than words posted online. They deserve security, honesty and protection in real life. No matter what happens, Mummy will always protect you and make sure you feel safe and loved every single day.”

    Reports indicate that Sania Ashfaq is currently raising the three children alone and has alleged that the all-rounder neglected to fulfill his financial responsibilities. 

    She had also accused Imad of forcing her to undergo an abortion in 2023.

    The couple announced their separation last year. Following their divorce, Imad Wasim married Nyla Raja.

  • Pakistan halts imported gas supply to fertiliser plants after Hormuz disruption

    Pakistan halts imported gas supply to fertiliser plants after Hormuz disruption

    Gas supply to fertiliser manufacturers in Pakistan has been suspended as pressure mounts on liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies. According to a report by Bloomberg, the disruption is linked to the war extending to the Strait of Hormuz, which is now, according to Iran, under their control.

    Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), the country’s largest gas distributor, informed customers that it would stop providing regasified LNG to fertiliser plants from midnight on Wednesday. 

    The company said it had been notified of supply disruptions by Pakistan State Oil (PSO) five days after confrontations began in the Gulf.

    Authorities are also reviewing gas allocations for other industrial consumers.

    The disruption follows escalation after Israel and the United States carried out strikes on Iran, with Tehran responding through retaliatory attacks on regional bases. 

    Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has been affected. The strait is a waterway and a key route for global energy trade, including LNG exports from Qatar’s Ras Laffan facility.

    During the previous energy crisis in 2022, triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Pakistan faced difficulties securing LNG cargoes amid high spot prices and payment constraints.

    According to an energy expert, Masanori Odaka, the situation “could be serious” if five or more LNG shipments are affected. Odaka added that current spot prices were beyond what Pakistan was likely willing to pay and that alternatives to sourcing LNG cargoes were limited. He also said a history of deferment and payment difficulties would put Pakistan at a disadvantage.

    An LNG analyst at ICIS (Independent commodity intelligence services), Evan Tan, said Pakistan received two cargoes in March, making it possible to manage any immediate gap through domestic production and coal imports. He said the shortfall in April and May could rise to two or three shipments, which would be difficult to offset through local alternatives.

    The matter was discussed at a meeting of the Petrol Monitoring Committee chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. 

    Officials, at fhe meeting, stated that petrol and diesel reserves were at satisfactory levels.

    Aurangzeb said the government was monitoring developments related to the Strait of Hormuz.

    Officials also briefed the committee that contacts were underway with friendly countries to secure additional crude oil supplies.

    Separately, the petroleum ministry said Pakistan had requested Saudi Arabia to route oil supplies through the Red Sea port of Yanbu to ensure steady supply during the war.

    Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik raised the issue during a meeting with Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, according to a ministry statement.

    The minister said most of Pakistan’s energy imports transit through the Strait of Hormuz and that the government was monitoring the situation to maintain supply continuity.

  • ‘My father did not speak to me for one year’: Yashma Gill reveals family resistance to her acting career

    ‘My father did not speak to me for one year’: Yashma Gill reveals family resistance to her acting career

    Actress Yashma Gill has opened up about the struggles she faced with her family’s opposition when she decided to pursue a career in acting.

    Speaking on a talk show, she revealed that her father did not speak to her for an entire year, while her mother remained supportive.

    She said, “My father did not speak to me for one year, while my mama was supportive.”

    Recalling a small but meaningful moment during Ramzan, Yashma said, “One day I greeted my father with ‘Salam,’ gently reminding him that responding is obligatory in Islam. He replied, ‘Walaikum Assalam.’ That was the first crack in the emotional wall between us.”

    The turning point came during her first Umrah trip. Yashma invited her father to accompany her, and what he witnessed during the journey helped change his perspective about her career in the entertainment industry.

    “Fans recognised me at the hotel and sent Sehri and Iftari meals. I received overwhelming respect,” Yashma said.

    “A particularly emotional moment came when a fan gifted me a piece of the Ghilaf-e-Kaaba, and seeing this admiration in such a sacred place deeply moved my father. He later told me that if you are receiving such respect in the House of Allah, you must be doing something good,” she added.

    Yashma Gill started her career with supporting roles and gradually warmed recognition for her performances in popular dramas including Qurban, Azmaish and Phaans.

  • Vaping comes under spotlight in Senate for intoxication risk

    Vaping comes under spotlight in Senate for intoxication risk

    The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services was informed that vaping devices could be misused for drug intoxication and other substances as lawmakers reviewed a proposed law to regulate electronic nicotine delivery systems.

    The matter came under discussion during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination at Parliament House. The meeting was chaired by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti, with members examining a Private Member’s Bill titled “The Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (Regulation) Bill, 2025.”

    Officials from the Ministry of National Health Services briefed the committee on concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the use of vaping devices. They said the devices, if left unregulated, could potentially be used for drug intoxication and other substances.

    The committee was also informed that several countries have already introduced restrictions or regulatory frameworks for electronic nicotine delivery systems.

    During the meeting, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal told lawmakers that vaping had become common among teenagers and young people.

    “Vaping has become a fashion,” he said, adding that adolescents were often seen using the devices openly.

    The minister also informed the committee that Pakistan does not manufacture vaping products domestically and that foreign exchange is spent on their import.

    The discussion became tense when Senator Sarmad Ali raised concerns over the ministry’s response to the proposed legislation. He told the committee that the key objective of the bill was to prevent individuals under the age of 18 from using vaping devices and to limit their spread among children.

    “Eighteen years of age was the central point of legislation,” Senator Sarmad Ali said during the meeting.

    He added that he had worked with officials, including the Director General of Health, to address technical matters in the draft law.

    In response, the federal health minister said the government was open to considering different viewpoints on the legislation and would provide responses to the concerns raised by members.

    He also told the committee that countries had adopted different approaches to regulate vaping products and that Pakistan would also need to develop its own framework after consultations.

    Following the discussion, the committee decided that further consultations were required on the proposed legislation. Members directed the Ministry of National Health Services to incorporate the proposed amendments and present a detailed briefing at the next meeting.