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  • Naseem Shah gets Dubai’s Golden Visa

    Naseem Shah gets Dubai’s Golden Visa

    Fast bowler Naseem Shah has been given a golden visa for Dubai, on which the strike bowler expressed his happiness and declared the Gulf city his second home.

    Naseem Shah shared the news of receiving the golden visa on social media and wrote that it is a great honor to have received a golden visa for the country that he considers his second home.

    Apart from fast bowler Naseem Shah, many Pakistani cricketers including Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed have received golden visas.

    It should be noted that Naseem Shah is not a part of the Pakistan World Cup squad due to a shoulder surgery.

  • Human Rights Watch confirms use of white phosphorus in Gaza, Lebanon

    Human Rights Watch confirms use of white phosphorus in Gaza, Lebanon

    As Israel’s onslaught on Gaza enters the seventh day, multiple sources claimed that Israeli forces were using white phosphorus to attack Gaza and Lebanon.

    The Palestinians claimed the news to be true but many news platforms did not verify the reports.

    The use of white phosphorus has now been confirmed by Human Rights Watch.

    “Human Rights Watch verified videos taken in Lebanon and Gaza on October 10 and 11, 2023, respectively, showing multiple airbursts of artillery-fired white phosphorus over the Gaza City port and two rural locations along the Israel-Lebanon border, and interviewed two people who described an attack in Gaza,” they have stated.

    Additionally, Lama Fakih, Middle East and North Africa director at Human Rights Watch explains that “Any time that white phosphorus is used in crowded civilian areas, it poses a high risk of excruciating burns and lifelong suffering,

    “White phosphorous is unlawfully indiscriminate when airburst in populated urban areas, where it can burn down houses and cause egregious harm to civilians.”

    The United Nations has banned the use of incendiary weapons in 1972.

    “Incendiary weapons are weapons or munitions designed to set fire to objects or cause burn or respiratory injury to people through the action of flame, heat, or combination thereof, resulting from a chemical reaction of a flammable substance such as napalm or white phosphorus,” the UN says.

    Nonetheless, it is not the first time that Israel has used white phosphorus against Palestinians. One of the first recorded incidents of its use is from 2009.

  • World Cup 2023: South Africa defeat Australia by 134 runs

    World Cup 2023: South Africa defeat Australia by 134 runs

    Australia’s poor run continues at the World Cup with a massive defeat at the hands of South Africa on Thursday night.

    Before the match, played at Lucknow’s Ratanshree Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Australian captain Pat Cummins won the toss and invited South Africa to bat first.

    Opening batsman Quinton de Kock and captain Temba Bavuma started the innings for South Africa, with a solid partnership of 108 runs, but then Bavuma was caught out after scoring 35 runs off Glenn Maxwell in the 20th over.

    De Kock was dismissed for 109 runs while Markram played an innings of 56 runs. Klaasen scored 29 runs, David Miller scored 17 runs and Marco Jensen scored 26 runs, thus South Africa scored 311 runs for the loss of seven wickets in the given 50 overs.

    For Australia, Mitchell Starc, and Glenn Maxwell took 2, 2 while Hazlewood, Cummins, and Zampa took one wicket each.

    Read More: VIDEO: Afghan fan beaten by Indian fans during India-Afghanistan mtach

    The Australian top-order proved to be a wall of sand in the chase, with none of the batsmen being able to hold their own against the brilliant bowling of the African bowlers. Chasing a target of 312 runs, six Australian batsmen returned to the pavilion in short order.

    Marence Labushin put up a little resistance in front of the South African bowlers, but he too was out on 46 runs. Mitchell Starc put up 27, captain Pete Cummins 22, and Zampa scored 11 runs, so the entire Australian team was bowled out for 177 runs in the 41st over.

    On behalf of South Africa, Rabada dismissed three players by giving 33 runs in eight overs, while Marco Jensen, Keshav Maharaj and Tabriz Shamsi took two wickets each.

  • Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves increase by $31 million, reaching $7.64 billion

    Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves increase by $31 million, reaching $7.64 billion

    The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported an increase of $31 million in its foreign exchange reserves on a weekly basis, reaching a total of $7.64 billion as of October 6, according to data released on Thursday.

    The overall liquid foreign reserves of the country amounted to $13.03 billion, with commercial banks holding net foreign reserves of $5.39 billion.

    The central bank did not provide a specific explanation for the increase in reserves.

    In its report, the SBP stated, “During the week ending on October 6, 2023, the SBP’s reserves rose by $31 million, reaching $7,646.7 million.”

    Notably, the previous week witnessed a decrease of $21 million in Pakistan’s central bank reserves.

    In July of this year, the SBP’s reserves received a significant boost when Pakistan received the first tranche of approximately $1.2 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after the approval of a new $3-billion stand-by arrangement. Additionally, inflows from Saudi Arabia and the UAE contributed to the growth of reserves.

    However, it’s worth mentioning that the central bank’s reserves have been under pressure due to ongoing debt repayments, an increase in import expenditures following the relaxation of restrictions, and a lack of fresh inflows.

  • Pakistan exports first batch of Changan Oshan X7 SUVs to Kenya and Tanzania

    Pakistan exports first batch of Changan Oshan X7 SUVs to Kenya and Tanzania

    Pakistan has made a significant foray into the global automobile market, marking a historic moment as it exported a batch of 14 SUV vehicles to Kenya and Tanzania, as reported by ARY News on Thursday.

    In a landmark achievement, Pakistan, through the collaboration of Master Changan Motors, a joint venture between Pakistan and China, has officially joined the league of car-exporting nations. This endeavour has solidified their position as the first automotive company to send SUV vehicles to foreign shores.

    The occasion was celebrated with a ceremonial event held in Karachi, commemorating the milestone of becoming the inaugural Pakistani-Chinese auto entity to export vehicles to two overseas destinations. Notably, the ceremony was attended by the Federal Secretary of Industries and Production, Asad Rehman.

    Rehnan also revealed the government’s intent to urge auto manufacturers to revise their car prices, especially in light of the notable depreciation of the US dollar (USD). He underlined the efforts in this direction by mentioning a recent newspaper advertisement released by an auto company, signaling its commitment to reducing vehicle prices.

    The export of the Oshan X7 SUV is a significant milestone for Pakistan as it ventures into the global automobile market, and this achievement carries even greater importance given the challenging economic conditions the country is currently facing.

    In a groundbreaking move, Pakistan’s collaborative effort with a Chinese automotive company, Master Changan Motors, marked their entry into the league of car exporters. They proudly achieved this milestone by sending the initial consignment of 14 SUV vehicles to Kenya and Tanzania.

    A special ceremony was organised in Karachi to celebrate the occasion, as it signified the first instance of a Pakistani-Chinese automotive company venturing into foreign vehicle exports.

    The Federal Secretary of Industries and Production, Asad Rehman was also present at the ceremony.

    During the ceremony, Asad Rehman conveyed the government’s intention to encourage auto companies to lower their car prices, given the significant decline in the value of the US dollar (USD).

    He also mentioned that an automotive firm had recently placed a newspaper advertisement advocating price reductions.

    Master Changan Motors, the Pakistan-Chinese automotive collaboration, proudly shipped its SUV model, the Oshan X7, to Kenya.

    This achievement is a notable milestone for Pakistan, considering the challenging economic circumstances it faces.

  • Pakistani cricket presenter Zainab Abbas speaks up after leaving India

    Pakistani cricket presenter Zainab Abbas speaks up after leaving India

    Pakistani cricket presenter Zainab Abbas left India on October 9 due to safety concerns after old tweets surfaced online. She took to X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday night to apologize for her tweets.

    “I understand and deeply regret the hurt caused by the posts that were circulated. I wish to make clear that they do not represent my values or who I am as a person today. There is no excuse or space for such language, and I sincerely apologise to anyone who was offended,” she wrote.

    She further said, “I have always felt extremely fortunate and grateful for the opportunities to travel and present the sport I love – this one would have been extra special.

    My daily interactions with everyone during my stay were kind, cheerful, and with a sense of familiarity – just as I had expected. I was neither asked to leave nor was I deported.

    However, I felt intimidated and scared by the reaction that was unfolding online. And even though there was no immediate threat to my safety, my family, and friends from both sides of the border were concerned. I needed some space and time to reflect on what had transpired.Also, I am truly grateful to those who were concerned and reached out during this challenging time.”

    According to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Zainab was under a lot of pressure in India after receiving threats.
    It is pertinent to mention here that Indian lawyer Vineet Jindal officially lodged a complaint against Zainab Abbas, regarding a series of old tweets which resurfaced on X, formerly known as Twitter.

    Vineet Jindal claimed that these anti-Hindu tweets were originally posted approximately nine years ago under the username “Zainablovesrk,” which has since been changed to “ZAbbas Official,” the currently active X account of Zainab Abbas.

    The reports of Zainab being deported from India are fake, according to ICC she has left for “personal reasons”.

  • Junaid Safdar and wife Ayesha part ways amicably

    Junaid Safdar and wife Ayesha part ways amicably

    Junaid Safdar, the son of the vice president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML- N) Maryam Nawaz and grandson of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has confirmed reports of his divorce with Ayesha.

    Taking to Instagram, Junaid Safdar requested the media to respect the couple’s privacy as it is their private matter, and wished his wife well.

    “News about my divorce is true. This is an entirely private matter and I request the media to respect our privacy. I hope with this decision we find our peace In Sha Allah. I will speak no further on this matter. I wish her well.”

    Junaid and Ayesha tied the knot in 2021 in a lavish ceremony held in the UK and Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif was present at the London event. The couple have kept away from the media since their marriage.

    Junaid has removed pictures of him and his wife from his Instagram account.

  • PTV World accused of airing unauthorized footage by YouTuber

    PTV World accused of airing unauthorized footage by YouTuber

    Content Creator and YoutTuber Muzammil Hussain has accused PTV World of copyright infringement, claiming that the state television used his tourism footage which was originally uploaded on his Youtube channel ‘MHtoori’ and is three minutes and fifteen seconds long. “PTV World aired the video footage on 30th September around 2 pm,” he said.

    In a legal notice, he alleges that the video was created from various clips posted on his Facebook page in March 2019.

    As per the Copyright Ordinance, 1962 (Ordinance No. lOCKIV of 1962), the sole ownership and copyright over his Facebook page, Twitter, and YouTube channels. All licenses and intellectual property rights are attributed to him, in accordance with Sections 56 and 57A of the Copyright Ordinance. He is demanding compensation of Rs200 million for the unauthorized creation and broadcast of the video, in line with the Copyright Ordinance, 1962.

    The notice provides a 70-day window for PTV World to respond.

  • Are cricket lovers staying in hospitals in Ahmedabad instead of hotels?

    Are cricket lovers staying in hospitals in Ahmedabad instead of hotels?

    Reuters: Cricket fever has gripped Ahmedabad ahead of Saturday’s World Cup group stage clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan and a visit to hospitals near the venue of the match in the western Indian city clearly shows the degree of excitement.

    Quite a few of the hospitals have seen a sudden influx of patients booked in for check-ups involving a night’s stay to coincide with the most anticipated match of the World Cup.

    Several doctors told local media the rush for check-up ‘packages’ was an ingenious way to find affordable accommodation as hotel costs have soared up to 20-fold ahead of the match.

    “We have come across some cases of people coming to watch the India-Pakistan match also taking an appointment for health check-ups and staying in hospitals,” Tushar Patel, President of the Ahmedabad Medical Association, told Reuters.

    The Ahmedabad Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association has discouraged its members from accommodating such fans.
    “We have asked our members not to entertain such requests. Hospitals are not meant for non-patients,” its president Bharat Gadhavi told Reuters.

    THREE WARS

    The Asian neighbors have fought three wars since becoming separate countries in 1947 and the relationship further soured after gunmen killed 166 people in Mumbai in 2008, which India blamed on a Pakistani militant group.

    While bilateral cricket became a casualty of geopolitical realities, it also whetted the appetite for a clash between neighbours who play each other only in multi-team events.

    India and Pakistan head into the showdown having both won their opening two matches at the tournament.

    The first batch of tickets for Saturday’s game were sold out within an hour of going on sale in August, prompting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to release another 14,000 earlier this month.

    Ahmedabad resident Hemish Patel and his friends, after several days of failed attempts, grabbed four tickets, each costing 6,000 Indian rupees ($72.15).

    “We logged into the site with multiple devices,” he said.

    “We constantly kept on refreshing the site and were able to book within 10 minutes after the sale of tickets began.”
    Patel was one of the lucky few.

    Tickets are fetching up to 25 times face value on resale and city police arrested four youths on Tuesday for selling fakes.

    Airfare has surged up to four times and Indian railways will run a pair of super fast trains linking Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

    PERFECT VENUE

    The 134,000-capacity Narendra Modi Stadium, which hosted former US President Donald Trump in 2020 and Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier this year, looks a perfect arena for cricket’s fiercest rivalry.

    The city has been declared a ‘no-drone zone’ on Saturday, and 11,000 security personnel will be deployed for the high-profile match, Ahmedabad police commissioner GS Malik said.

    On their first tour of India since the 2016 T20 World Cup, Pakistan were accorded a warm welcome in Hyderabad, where they played their first two matches.

    India have a perfect 7-0 record against Pakistan at ODI World Cups and while the rivalry assumes the Orwellian concept of serious sport — “war minus the shooting” — players from both sides share good relations.

    During the Sri Lanka leg of the Asia Cup last month, Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi gave Jasprit Bumrah a gift for the Indian’s newborn baby and the video went viral.

    It will be a special occasion for Indian Liyakat Khan, whose daughter Samiya is married to Pakistan fast bowler Hasan Ali.
    “My wife went to Pakistan in 2021 when my daughter was expecting her first child. We will meet again … I can’t wait to hold my grandchild,” Khan told the Indian Express newspaper.

  • ‘We have a lot of fighters, people who want to support us’, says Hamas: what we know about day six

    ‘We have a lot of fighters, people who want to support us’, says Hamas: what we know about day six

    No electricity in Gaza

    As fuel, food, and other necessities are halted by Israel in Gaza Strip, the besieged area’s only electric power plant is now exhausted. This means that 2.3 million people are now without electricity whereas hospitals and other necessary services have been affected.

    And with an increasing number of wounded people, people are left to wait for their turn. According to AL-Jazeera, 50 patients are waiting to get surgeries in Gaza’s largest hospital.

    United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres has called out the blockade of resources and necessities into Gaza, stating that fuel, water, and food “must be allowed into Gaza”.

    Hamas releases children, Israel calls it a farce

    Hamas’ Qassam Brigade has released a video showing the release of two children and a woman who were initially under their custody. This comes after the circulation of false news stating that Hamas beheaded 40 Israeli babies — Hamas denied the allegations.

    Nonetheless, Israel has deemed the video as a farce stating, Hamas is trying to change the truth through the theatrics of publishing a propaganda video through its media mouthpieces,”

    White House retract Biden’s claim

    Earlier, false news had been circulating on social media that Israeli women and children have been beheaded by Hamas’ armed wing, the Qassam Brigades.

    Anadolu Agency reached out to the Israeli spokesperson on Tuesday who stated that the Israeli army has no information confirming allegations that “Hamas beheaded babies.”

    Nonetheless, in his address, US President Joe Biden stated that “I never really thought that I would see, have confirmed pictures of terrorists beheading children.”

    However, The Washington Post reported that “A White House spokesperson later clarified that US officials and the president have not seen pictures or confirmed such reports independently,”

    Talks on releasing Israeli captives, Red Cross

    The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is currently in conversation with Hamas in efforts to free Israeli captives.

    “We are now in contact with Hamas and Israeli officials as part of the efforts on the hostage issue,

    “As a neutral mediator, we are ready to conduct humanitarian visits; and facilitate any eventual release.”

    According to Israel, 150 of their people are under Hamas’ custody including women, children, and soldiers.

    No attacks from Gaza but Israel continues airstrikes

    According to the Israeli army, no rockets were striked from Gaza and Lebanon last night.

    But airstrikes from Israel continue. At least 10 Palestinian civilians, including women and children, have been killed by an Israeli missile attack on the Shati refugee camp west of Gaza City.

    ‘We are not afraid’, says Hamas

    Al-Jazeera spoke to a Hamas leader, Ghazi Hamad, who asserted that they are prepared to face Israeli troops who are reportedly going to be deployed in Gaza as they are apparently preparing for a ground operation.

    “We are not afraid. We are a strong people. We have a strong determination to continue. We have a lot of fighters and a lot of people who want to support us, Hamad said.

    Israel expels Palestinian employees in West Bank

    Many Palestinians from Gaza had been working in the occupied West Bank due to better job prospects.

    After the attacks, however, their employers took them to checkpoints and then to the occupied West Bank as directed by Israeli police.

    Al-Jazeera reports that there is no going back for them and reportedly, they were also attacked by Israeli police after getting picked up.

    They are currently stuck at the Palestinian Authority facility in Ramallah and have not been able to return to their homes even though some have lost their family members in Gaza in Israel attacks.

    Palestinians in occupied West Bank

    Palestinian health ministry has revealed that Israeli settlers have killed two Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

    Reuters reported that according to the witnesses, settlers shot the father and son who were at the funeral of four Palestinians who were also killed by settlers and soldiers on Wednesday.

    Casualties

    According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, 1,200 have been killed in Gaza and about 5,600 wounded.

    In Israel too, 1,200 have died while 3,000 have been injured.

    The UN reveals that as a result of Israel’s attacks, 338,934 Palestinians have been displaced in Gaza.