Norway has announced that all ticket revenue from its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Israel will be donated to humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza. The match, scheduled at Oslo's Ullevaal Stadium, will direct its proceeds to medical and aid organisations, including Doctors Without Borders.
The decision comes as the Norwegian Football Federation has taken an increasingly outspoken position on the Gaza conflict. While FIFA continues to allow Israel to compete in international football, Norway has been among the strongest advocates for suspending the Israeli Football Association, arguing that FIFA should apply its rules consistently, similar to the ban imposed on Russian teams after the invasion of Ukraine.
The announcement also carries symbolic weight because Norway hosted the secret negotiations that led to the Oslo Accords.
On the field, Norway's national team, led by Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, is enjoying one of its strongest World Cup qualifying campaigns in decades. By donating 100% of ticket sales, Norway says the match will support emergency healthcare and humanitarian aid for civilians affected by the ongoing war in Gaza.
Actor Usama Khan has questioned whether Pakistan is prepared to compete on global streaming platforms, arguing that censorship and the country's focus on family-oriented dramas limit its ability to appeal to international audiences. In an Instagram story, Khan said that while Pakistani productions showcase the country's rich culture, global streaming services such as Netflix are driven by demand for bold, realistic storytelling, including true-crime, political thrillers, and stories exploring institutional and social issues.
He argued that Pakistan's long-standing "ban culture" prevents creators from tackling sensitive subjects such as politics, crime, and history, restricting the diversity of content needed to succeed on international platforms. "Until we dismantle this ban culture and allow artists to show reality, we are simply not ready for the open landscape of streaming," he said.
Khan's comments come after Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal announced that the government is in talks with Netflix to secure greater international exposure for Pakistani films and dramas. The minister also revealed plans to launch a Pakistani streaming platform to boost media exports, saying regional politics had limited local content's global reach. Filmmaker Mehreen Jabbar has similarly raised concerns, while expressing optimism that Pakistan's first Netflix original production is expected to release within the next year.
After 15 years in the making, The Colour of My Heart (Rung Hai Dil Ka Mere Dil Ka), a documentary celebrating the life and legacy of legendary Pakistani actor and broadcaster Zia Mohyeddin, is set to make its international premiere at the 49th Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) in New York City. Directed by filmmaker Umar Riaz and produced by Asna Pictures, the documentary began as Riaz's university thesis project in New York more than a decade ago, with much of its post-production also completed there.
The film traces Mohyeddin's remarkable journey between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, weaving the poetry of Faiz Ahmed Faiz into a deeply personal portrait of one of the country's most influential cultural figures. Presented by the late scholar and human rights activist Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra, the documentary pays tribute to Mohyeddin's enduring contributions to theatre, film and Urdu literature while acknowledging the complexities of his life.
The documentary first premiered in Pakistani cinemas on February 6, 2026, shortly before the third anniversary of Mohyeddin's passing. Following its limited theatrical release, the filmmakers plan to bring it back to Pakistani cinemas this autumn. The AAIFF runs from July 30 to August 9, with the film scheduled to screen on the festival's closing day, offering international audiences a glimpse into Pakistan's rich artistic and literary heritage.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to ensure that 100% of overseas remittances are processed through digital channels as part of the government's broader push to transform Pakistan into a cashless economy. Chairing a meeting in Islamabad on promoting digital payments, the prime minister instructed officials to strengthen awareness campaigns encouraging merchants to adopt QR code-based payment systems and accelerate the country's shift toward digital financial transactions.
According to the Prime Minister's Office, Shehbaz Sharif praised the government's economic team for the progress made over the past year in expanding Pakistan's digital payments ecosystem. He said a cashless economy would improve transparency, reduce reliance on cash, and support sustainable economic growth by making financial transactions more secure and efficient.
The prime minister also highlighted the rapid growth in digital payment adoption, noting that the number of active merchants accepting QR code payments has increased by 300% over the past year. The government views digital remittances as a key component of its economic reform agenda, aiming to make cross-border money transfers faster, more transparent, and easier for millions of overseas Pakistanis who regularly send funds back home.
Global oil prices climbed to their highest level in a month as military tensions between the United States and Iran intensified, raising fears of disruptions to energy supplies through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures rose 2.3% to $85.20 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) gained 2.4% to $80.05. A day earlier, Brent had surged 9.6%, marking its biggest single-day increase since May 2020.
The latest rally followed a third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran and President Donald Trump's decision to reinstate a naval blockade of Iranian shipping, along with a proposed 20% fee for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by escalating military activity, while the UAE reported that two of its oil tankers were struck by Iranian cruise missiles in Omani waters, killing one Indian crew member and injuring eight others.
Shipping data also showed tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz had fallen to its lowest level in two months, heightening concerns over global oil supplies. Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption to crude exports through the waterway, which carries a significant share of the world's seaborne oil trade, could trigger another sharp rise in energy prices.
A 28-year-old doctor was shot dead during a robbery near Teen Talwar in Karachi's Clifton after withdrawing Rs5 million from a bank. According to police, Dr. Akash, who had been serving at Jinnah Hospital for the past two years, was travelling with his father and cousin to deposit the cash at another bank when armed suspects intercepted their car.
CCTV footage shows one of the robbers firing toward the vehicle before opening the car door and grabbing one of two cash packets. Each packet reportedly contained Rs2.5 million, with the suspects escaping with one bag while the second remained in the victim's hand. The shooting caused panic in the area as bystanders fled for safety.
Police said the bank's security guard also opened fire, believing the car's occupants were robbers. Investigators are now trying to determine whether the fatal bullet that killed Dr. Akash was fired by the suspects or the security guard during the exchange of gunfire.
Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho has ordered a transparent investigation and directed authorities to arrest those responsible. Meanwhile, the victim's family has warned they will stage a sit-in with Dr. Akash's body if the suspects are not swiftly brought to justice.
The federal government has announced plans to expand the global reach of Pakistani entertainment by holding talks with Netflix and other international streaming platforms, while also working on a homegrown streaming service. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistani dramas and films enjoy strong demand worldwide and are a key part of the government's Uraan Pakistan export strategy. He claimed that regional politics has limited the visibility of Pakistani content on major streaming services and said the government is seeking a fairer share for local productions through partnerships with global platforms.
However, ARY Digital CEO Salman Iqbal offered a different approach. Responding to Ahsan Iqbal's statement, he urged Pakistan to focus on building its own streaming platform instead of relying on foreign companies. Salman Iqbal revealed that ARY Digital had previously been approached by Netflix to provide content but chose to decline the offer. He argued that Pakistan has the technology, creative talent, and storytelling expertise needed to develop a successful local platform.
Highlighting the global appeal of Urdu-language content, Salman Iqbal said ARY's productions already reach millions of households in Pakistan and abroad. He added that with an audience of over one billion Urdu speakers and understanders, Pakistan should promote its own technology alongside its internationally acclaimed entertainment industry.
A major amendment to Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB) law has shifted the final appellate authority in NAB cases from the Supreme Court to the newly established Federal Constitutional Court (FCC), a move with significant implications for former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Under the new Section 32A of the National Accountability Bureau (Amendment) Act, 2026, anyone convicted in a NAB case—or the NAB prosecutor, if directed by the chairman—can file a second appeal before the FCC within 30 days of a High Court decision.
The amendment means that if the High Court upholds a conviction against the PTI founder in any NAB reference, including the high-profile £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case, his final legal appeal will now be heard by the Constitutional Court instead of the Supreme Court. PTI sources have described the legislation as being specifically aimed at Imran Khan, arguing that it could have a direct impact on both his legal and political future. The change marks one of the first major transfers of appellate jurisdiction from the Supreme Court to the FCC following Pakistan’s recent constitutional restructuring of the superior judiciary.
A devastating fire tore through the popular Na Ladprao pub in northern Bangkok around midnight, killing 27 people and injuring 63 others in one of Thailand’s deadliest nightlife disasters in recent years. According to Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, many victims were found near the pub’s restrooms, suggesting they were trapped while trying to escape the rapidly spreading smoke and flames.
A musician performing at the venue told officials that smoke was first seen coming from a circuit breaker near the stage before the power suddenly failed. Moments later, an explosion was heard, and thick black smoke quickly engulfed the packed nightclub, causing panic among patrons. Dramatic footage shared by first responders showed people scrambling to flee as flames consumed the building.
Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after approximately 30 minutes, but the venue’s interior was left severely damaged, with charred furniture and extensive fire destruction visible in the aftermath. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with an electrical fault emerging as the leading suspected cause of the tragic fire.
India has refused to rush into a trade agreement with the United States, insisting it will only sign a deal that protects its economic interests and offers clear tariff advantages. Negotiations stalled during US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer’s recent visit to New Delhi after both sides failed to reach consensus on key issues, including tariff concessions and protections for Indian agriculture. India has made it clear that it will not compromise on what it considers its “red lines,” particularly safeguards for farmers and small businesses.
New Delhi’s stronger negotiating stance is backed by improving economic indicators. India’s goods exports rose around 15% year-on-year during April–June, while exports to the US reached $17.29 billion in April and May. Exports to Gulf nations also rebounded to $5.3 billion in May after falling to $2.62 billion in March due to regional conflict. Meanwhile, a free trade agreement with the UK is set to take effect this month, with an EU trade deal expected by early next year. Goldman Sachs has also upgraded India’s 2026 GDP growth forecast to 6.8%, giving New Delhi greater confidence to hold out for more favorable terms despite the threat of higher US tariffs.
Narr.
Norway has announced that all ticket revenue from its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Israel will be donated to humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza. The match, scheduled at Oslo's Ullevaal Stadium, will direct its proceeds to medical and aid organisations, including Doctors Without Borders.
The decision comes as the Norwegian Football Federation has taken an increasingly outspoken position on the Gaza conflict. While FIFA continues to allow Israel to compete in international football, Norway has been among the strongest advocates for suspending the Israeli Football Association, arguing that FIFA should apply its rules consistently, similar to the ban imposed on Russian teams after the invasion of Ukraine.
The announcement also carries symbolic weight because Norway hosted the secret negotiations that led to the Oslo Accords.
On the field, Norway's national team, led by Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, is enjoying one of its strongest World Cup qualifying campaigns in decades. By donating 100% of ticket sales, Norway says the match will support emergency healthcare and humanitarian aid for civilians affected by the ongoing war in Gaza.
3 days ago | [YT] | 52
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Narr.
Actor Usama Khan has questioned whether Pakistan is prepared to compete on global streaming platforms, arguing that censorship and the country's focus on family-oriented dramas limit its ability to appeal to international audiences. In an Instagram story, Khan said that while Pakistani productions showcase the country's rich culture, global streaming services such as Netflix are driven by demand for bold, realistic storytelling, including true-crime, political thrillers, and stories exploring institutional and social issues.
He argued that Pakistan's long-standing "ban culture" prevents creators from tackling sensitive subjects such as politics, crime, and history, restricting the diversity of content needed to succeed on international platforms. "Until we dismantle this ban culture and allow artists to show reality, we are simply not ready for the open landscape of streaming," he said.
Khan's comments come after Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal announced that the government is in talks with Netflix to secure greater international exposure for Pakistani films and dramas. The minister also revealed plans to launch a Pakistani streaming platform to boost media exports, saying regional politics had limited local content's global reach. Filmmaker Mehreen Jabbar has similarly raised concerns, while expressing optimism that Pakistan's first Netflix original production is expected to release within the next year.
3 days ago | [YT] | 14
View 0 replies
Narr.
After 15 years in the making, The Colour of My Heart (Rung Hai Dil Ka Mere Dil Ka), a documentary celebrating the life and legacy of legendary Pakistani actor and broadcaster Zia Mohyeddin, is set to make its international premiere at the 49th Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) in New York City. Directed by filmmaker Umar Riaz and produced by Asna Pictures, the documentary began as Riaz's university thesis project in New York more than a decade ago, with much of its post-production also completed there.
The film traces Mohyeddin's remarkable journey between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, weaving the poetry of Faiz Ahmed Faiz into a deeply personal portrait of one of the country's most influential cultural figures. Presented by the late scholar and human rights activist Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra, the documentary pays tribute to Mohyeddin's enduring contributions to theatre, film and Urdu literature while acknowledging the complexities of his life.
The documentary first premiered in Pakistani cinemas on February 6, 2026, shortly before the third anniversary of Mohyeddin's passing. Following its limited theatrical release, the filmmakers plan to bring it back to Pakistani cinemas this autumn. The AAIFF runs from July 30 to August 9, with the film scheduled to screen on the festival's closing day, offering international audiences a glimpse into Pakistan's rich artistic and literary heritage.
3 days ago | [YT] | 3
View 0 replies
Narr.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to ensure that 100% of overseas remittances are processed through digital channels as part of the government's broader push to transform Pakistan into a cashless economy. Chairing a meeting in Islamabad on promoting digital payments, the prime minister instructed officials to strengthen awareness campaigns encouraging merchants to adopt QR code-based payment systems and accelerate the country's shift toward digital financial transactions.
According to the Prime Minister's Office, Shehbaz Sharif praised the government's economic team for the progress made over the past year in expanding Pakistan's digital payments ecosystem. He said a cashless economy would improve transparency, reduce reliance on cash, and support sustainable economic growth by making financial transactions more secure and efficient.
The prime minister also highlighted the rapid growth in digital payment adoption, noting that the number of active merchants accepting QR code payments has increased by 300% over the past year. The government views digital remittances as a key component of its economic reform agenda, aiming to make cross-border money transfers faster, more transparent, and easier for millions of overseas Pakistanis who regularly send funds back home.
3 days ago | [YT] | 5
View 0 replies
Narr.
Global oil prices climbed to their highest level in a month as military tensions between the United States and Iran intensified, raising fears of disruptions to energy supplies through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures rose 2.3% to $85.20 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) gained 2.4% to $80.05. A day earlier, Brent had surged 9.6%, marking its biggest single-day increase since May 2020.
The latest rally followed a third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran and President Donald Trump's decision to reinstate a naval blockade of Iranian shipping, along with a proposed 20% fee for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by escalating military activity, while the UAE reported that two of its oil tankers were struck by Iranian cruise missiles in Omani waters, killing one Indian crew member and injuring eight others.
Shipping data also showed tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz had fallen to its lowest level in two months, heightening concerns over global oil supplies. Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption to crude exports through the waterway, which carries a significant share of the world's seaborne oil trade, could trigger another sharp rise in energy prices.
3 days ago | [YT] | 2
View 0 replies
Narr.
A 28-year-old doctor was shot dead during a robbery near Teen Talwar in Karachi's Clifton after withdrawing Rs5 million from a bank. According to police, Dr. Akash, who had been serving at Jinnah Hospital for the past two years, was travelling with his father and cousin to deposit the cash at another bank when armed suspects intercepted their car.
CCTV footage shows one of the robbers firing toward the vehicle before opening the car door and grabbing one of two cash packets. Each packet reportedly contained Rs2.5 million, with the suspects escaping with one bag while the second remained in the victim's hand. The shooting caused panic in the area as bystanders fled for safety.
Police said the bank's security guard also opened fire, believing the car's occupants were robbers. Investigators are now trying to determine whether the fatal bullet that killed Dr. Akash was fired by the suspects or the security guard during the exchange of gunfire.
Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho has ordered a transparent investigation and directed authorities to arrest those responsible. Meanwhile, the victim's family has warned they will stage a sit-in with Dr. Akash's body if the suspects are not swiftly brought to justice.
4 days ago | [YT] | 11
View 2 replies
Narr.
The federal government has announced plans to expand the global reach of Pakistani entertainment by holding talks with Netflix and other international streaming platforms, while also working on a homegrown streaming service. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistani dramas and films enjoy strong demand worldwide and are a key part of the government's Uraan Pakistan export strategy. He claimed that regional politics has limited the visibility of Pakistani content on major streaming services and said the government is seeking a fairer share for local productions through partnerships with global platforms.
However, ARY Digital CEO Salman Iqbal offered a different approach. Responding to Ahsan Iqbal's statement, he urged Pakistan to focus on building its own streaming platform instead of relying on foreign companies. Salman Iqbal revealed that ARY Digital had previously been approached by Netflix to provide content but chose to decline the offer. He argued that Pakistan has the technology, creative talent, and storytelling expertise needed to develop a successful local platform.
Highlighting the global appeal of Urdu-language content, Salman Iqbal said ARY's productions already reach millions of households in Pakistan and abroad. He added that with an audience of over one billion Urdu speakers and understanders, Pakistan should promote its own technology alongside its internationally acclaimed entertainment industry.
4 days ago | [YT] | 7
View 0 replies
Narr.
A major amendment to Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB) law has shifted the final appellate authority in NAB cases from the Supreme Court to the newly established Federal Constitutional Court (FCC), a move with significant implications for former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Under the new Section 32A of the National Accountability Bureau (Amendment) Act, 2026, anyone convicted in a NAB case—or the NAB prosecutor, if directed by the chairman—can file a second appeal before the FCC within 30 days of a High Court decision.
The amendment means that if the High Court upholds a conviction against the PTI founder in any NAB reference, including the high-profile £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case, his final legal appeal will now be heard by the Constitutional Court instead of the Supreme Court. PTI sources have described the legislation as being specifically aimed at Imran Khan, arguing that it could have a direct impact on both his legal and political future. The change marks one of the first major transfers of appellate jurisdiction from the Supreme Court to the FCC following Pakistan’s recent constitutional restructuring of the superior judiciary.
4 days ago | [YT] | 2
View 0 replies
Narr.
A devastating fire tore through the popular Na Ladprao pub in northern Bangkok around midnight, killing 27 people and injuring 63 others in one of Thailand’s deadliest nightlife disasters in recent years. According to Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, many victims were found near the pub’s restrooms, suggesting they were trapped while trying to escape the rapidly spreading smoke and flames.
A musician performing at the venue told officials that smoke was first seen coming from a circuit breaker near the stage before the power suddenly failed. Moments later, an explosion was heard, and thick black smoke quickly engulfed the packed nightclub, causing panic among patrons. Dramatic footage shared by first responders showed people scrambling to flee as flames consumed the building.
Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after approximately 30 minutes, but the venue’s interior was left severely damaged, with charred furniture and extensive fire destruction visible in the aftermath. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with an electrical fault emerging as the leading suspected cause of the tragic fire.
4 days ago | [YT] | 1
View 0 replies
Narr.
India has refused to rush into a trade agreement with the United States, insisting it will only sign a deal that protects its economic interests and offers clear tariff advantages. Negotiations stalled during US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer’s recent visit to New Delhi after both sides failed to reach consensus on key issues, including tariff concessions and protections for Indian agriculture. India has made it clear that it will not compromise on what it considers its “red lines,” particularly safeguards for farmers and small businesses.
New Delhi’s stronger negotiating stance is backed by improving economic indicators. India’s goods exports rose around 15% year-on-year during April–June, while exports to the US reached $17.29 billion in April and May. Exports to Gulf nations also rebounded to $5.3 billion in May after falling to $2.62 billion in March due to regional conflict. Meanwhile, a free trade agreement with the UK is set to take effect this month, with an EU trade deal expected by early next year. Goldman Sachs has also upgraded India’s 2026 GDP growth forecast to 6.8%, giving New Delhi greater confidence to hold out for more favorable terms despite the threat of higher US tariffs.
4 days ago | [YT] | 4
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