Connect with us

Latest News

Iran has officially announced a period of national mourning following the tragic death of Raisi in a helicopter crash.

Published

on

The state-run news agency IRNA has reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has announced a period of five days for the entire nation to grieve the untimely death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter accident.

Khamenei paid a respectful homage by sharing a photograph of himself with Raisi on X, previously known as Twitter, and included a remark alluding to Imam Reza, the highly esteemed eighth imam of Shia Islam.

Mohammad Mokhber, the First Vice President, has been appointed to supervise the executive branch of the government. He will serve in this role temporarily for a period of 50 days, during which a new presidential election must take place. Mokhber has committed to perpetuating Raisi’s trajectory and guaranteeing the seamless execution of governmental responsibilities.

“As per Article 131 of the constitution, Mokhber has been appointed to lead the executive branch,” stated Khamenei. He further mentioned that Mokhber will collaborate with the heads of the legislative and judicial branches to make arrangements for the upcoming presidential elections, with a deadline of 50 days.”

According to IRNA, Ali Bagheri Kani has been designated as the interim foreign minister following this unfortunate event. The remains of Raisi are currently being brought to Tabriz, however, specific information regarding his funeral plans has not yet been provided.

An unusual conference, encompassing all three levels of the Iranian government, was convened on Monday in response to the tragedy. Mokhber served as the representative of the executive branch, while delegates from the legislative and judiciary branches were also present.

“During the meeting, Mokhber assured that we will adhere to President Raisi’s directives and carry out our assigned responsibilities without any disruptions.” As to the constitution of the Islamic Republic, the first vice president is authorised to temporarily take the position of president with the agreement of the Supreme Leader. Subsequently, a new president is to be elected within a period of 50 days.

Global leaders have offered condolences and conveyed their profound grief and sympathy with the people of Iran in response to this tragic occurrence. While the country grieves, plans are being made to commemorate Raisi’s accomplishments and facilitate a seamless transfer of power.

Latest News

Pakistan achieves a commanding victory against England in the second test, equalising the series.

Published

on

By

In the second Test match of the series, Pakistan defeated England by a commanding 152 runs at Multan, levelling the scores at one. The game’s standout performer was spinner Noman Ali, who claimed an incredible eight wickets in the second innings, good for figures of 8 for 46, and helped England to a 297 total at a cost of just 144 runs.

Under the weight of Noman Ali’s skill, England’s batting crumbled, and they were bowled out in just 33.3 overs. Noman’s outstanding effort allowed him to take 11 wickets in the match, making him a crucial component in Pakistan’s triumph. Sajid Khan, his partner, was also instrumental in the second innings, taking two vital wickets, but his 2 for 93 stats were insignificant in the face of Noman’s valiant efforts.

After scoring 366 in the first innings and 221 in the second, Pakistan set England a formidable target of 297. In their chase, England, who had scored 291 in their opening innings, collapsed, with very few batsmen offering any opposition. Despite Joe Root’s 38 runs, Pakistan’s spin attack was too much for any of the other batters to withstand.

Pakistan’s victory was confirmed when Abdullah Shafique caught England’s last man, Shoaib Bashir, off Noman Ali’s bowling for a golden duck.

Pakistan has levelled the series with their victory, paving the way for an intriguing decider in the final Test. One of the best bowling performances ever by Noman Ali will go down in history, and the squad will be hoping to continue this momentum into the series decider.

(T:297) 291 and 144

Ollie Pope was dismissed for 22 off 38 balls by Sajid Khan after he struck twice, skilfully using a caught and bowled catch.

Although Pope and Joe Root had previously shown some resistance, Pope’s exit has put England in danger. Sajid’s explosive session now stands at 6.2-0-27-2, while Noman Ali added the crucial wicket of Ben Duckett to send England reeling at 37/3.

England currently has a difficult assignment as Pakistan’s spinners find significant turn and bounce on the fourth-day surface. England began the day needing 260 runs to win. Joe Root remains at the crease with 12 runs from 26 balls, but with 260 more runs required and seven wickets in hand, England will need a special effort to avoid defeat.

With over 88 overs remaining in the day, the match hangs in the balance, but Pakistan hold the upper hand as their bowlers continue to apply pressure.

Continue Reading

Latest News

Pakistan writes the US to request Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s presidential pardon.

Published

on

By

According to a report submitted to the Islamabad High Court, the Pakistani government has formally asked for the presidential pardon of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, who is incarcerated in the United States.

Manoor Iqbal Dogal, the Additional Attorney General, told the court during a hearing on the ongoing efforts to release and repatriate Siddiqui that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has written to the President of the United States, requesting a pardon for Siddiqui.

Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, Aafia Siddiqui’s sister, filed a complaint asking the government to work towards her freedom and safe return to Pakistan. Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan presided over the case. In court, Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui’s attorney, Imran Shafiq, emphasised the seriousness of the situation and expressed optimism that the letter would open the door for her return.

In 2010, the American court found Pakistani neuroscientist Dr. Aafia Siddiqui guilty of attempted murder and assault against US servicemen in Afghanistan.

What’s the case of Aafia Siddiqui?

One of the most divisive court cases between Pakistan and the US is still that of neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui.

Siddiqui was born in Karachi, Pakistan, but after the events of September 11, 2001, his life took a sharp turn. This resulted in a number of accusations, detentions, and convictions that have provoked controversy, discussion, and tensions between nations.

Aafia Siddiqui was born in Karachi in 1972 into a well-educated family. She continued her studies in the US, graduating from Brandeis University in 2001 with a PhD in neuroscience. Well-known for her scholastic prowess and strong religious convictions, Siddiqui’s life dramatically changed after it was alleged that she had connections to “extremist organisations” in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

The Charges and the Detention

When Siddiqui was suspected of being involved in the planning of strikes against the United States and was allegedly connected to Al-Qaeda in 2003, her name began to appear in American media. She and her three kids “disappeared” in Pakistan in the same year, sparking years of rumours about her location.

Aafia Siddiqui was controversially captured in Ghazni, Afghanistan, in 2008. The main accusation against her is that she tried to shoot US soldiers while being questioned.

Despite being imprisoned, Siddiqui allegedly managed to obtain a firearm and fire, missing no one, according to U.S. authorities. She was critically wounded when the American forces shot her in the belly in retaliation.

Verdict and Trial Results

During her 2010 trial in New York, Siddiqui was found guilty of attempted murder and assault. The jury declared her guilty even though there was no tangible evidence that she had fired a weapon, and she was given an 86-year prison sentence as punishment.

Siddiqui’s case became a symbol of alleged injustice by the United States, and the trial drew heavy condemnation, especially in Pakistan.

Concerns concerning the trial’s fairness and the reliability of the evidence submitted have been voiced by human rights organisations and activists.

Public and Diplomatic Reactions

Civil society in Pakistan has pushed successive Pakistani administrations to pursue Aafia Siddiqui’s release, as her situation has sparked large-scale protests throughout the country.

In Pakistan, Siddiqui is frequently referred to as the “Daughter of the Nation,” and her case serves to stoke anti-American sentiment there.

Through official channels or prisoner exchange programs, the Pakistani government has diplomatically attempted several times to arrange Siddiqui’s return.

The United States maintains that she is serving a justly earned term, hence these attempts have not been successful thus far.

Present Situation and Requests for Publication

Aafia Siddiqui is incarcerated at the Federal Medical Centre in Carswell, Texas, where her health is still a concern while she serves her term. Human rights advocates and prominent politicians continue to be drawn to her plight, particularly in Pakistan where demonstrations and rallies demanding her freedom are held on a regular basis.

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Breaking down barriers: The top 5 dramas in Pakistan that focus on the difficulties of women

Published

on

By

In recent years, Pakistani television shows have increasingly concentrated on the adversities encountered by women, providing spectators with insight into their experiences.

Below are five dramas that have adeptly emphasised these significant themes:

Udaari (2016): This innovative play addressed the delicate issue of child protection, centring on a man who jeopardises the safety of his young stepdaughter and niece.

Featuring Urwa Hocane and Farhan Saeed, ‘Udaari’ initiated significant discussions around child protection and the necessity for awareness.

Baaghi: Inspired by the life of model Qandeel Baloch, ‘Baaghi’ depicted the challenges women encounter in claiming their autonomy. The drama depicted Qandeel’s odyssey in a society where conventional norms frequently eclipse women’s rights.

Hadsaa: Inspired by a true event, ‘Hadsaa’ chronicles a woman’s quest for justice following a tragic experience witnessed by her children. The drama underscored perseverance and the significance of advocating for one’s rights, while illustrating the victim’s post-trauma challenges.

Juda: Focused on the emotional odyssey of a lady confronting a difficult marriage, Juda poignantly illustrated the intricacies of love and support, highlighting the fortitude required to pursue an improved existence.

Cheekh: Starring Saba Qamar, this gripping series chronicles a woman’s quest for justice on behalf of her companion. The drama emphasised societal constraints and the importance of championing women’s rights.

These shows not only entertain but also stimulate intelligent discourse on women’s empowerment and social issues, resonating with audiences and fostering awareness.

Continue Reading

Trending