The United Nations says more than 40 people have been killed, dozens injured and many others remain missing after devastating floods swept through parts of Afghanistan’s northeastern Nuristan province.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the floods caused extensive damage to homes, public buildings and businesses, while damaged roads and difficult terrain have severely complicated search, rescue and humanitarian operations.

“More than 40 people have lost their lives, dozens have been injured and many remain missing,” Dujarric told reporters, adding that search and rescue operations were continuing in the worst-affected areas.

The floods struck parts of Nuristan, including the provincial capital, Parun, leaving families searching for relatives believed to be trapped under debris and mud.

Survivors have described losing homes, businesses and their livelihoods in the disaster. One Nuristan resident, Wali Mohammad, said he lost one of his children and suffered a serious leg injury in the floods.

“We are 12 people. I am also disabled now. Our economic situation is already bad, and we have lost everything,” he said.

Residents in Parun said floodwaters swept away shops, markets and other buildings, leaving widespread destruction and urgent humanitarian needs.

The Taliban-run disaster management authorities have warned that the number of casualties could rise as search and rescue teams continue working in affected areas. They have also warned of further rainfall and storms in several provinces and urged residents to stay away from waterways and flood-prone areas.

The United Nations said it and its humanitarian partners are assessing the damage and planning a response, but access to affected communities remains a major challenge because of damaged roads and difficult terrain.

The Taliban-run environmental agency has linked Afghanistan’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events to global climate change. Afghanistan, already facing severe humanitarian and economic challenges, has experienced repeated deadly floods in recent years, with vulnerable communities often lacking the infrastructure and resources needed to respond quickly to natural disasters.

With many people still missing and rescue operations ongoing, the full scale of the human and economic losses in Nuristan remains unclear.

The post UN Says More Than 40 Killed in Devastating Floods in Afghanistan’s Nuristan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Kuwait has activated its air defence systems to intercept Iranian drones, according to the country’s military, as the escalating confrontation between Iran and the United States continues to raise security concerns across the Gulf.

Kuwait’s General Staff said on Thursday that its air defences were responding to hostile aerial threats and that explosions heard in parts of the country were linked to interception operations. The military did not immediately provide details on the number of drones involved or report casualties from the latest incident.

The development follows a series of similar incidents in which Kuwait has reported detecting or intercepting Iranian drones and missile threats. Reuters has previously reported that Kuwait’s air defences were dealing with waves of Iranian drone attacks, underscoring the repeated security challenges facing the Gulf state during the wider conflict.

Recent regional reporting has also placed Kuwait among several Gulf states facing heightened risks from the conflict. Reuters reported that Kuwait and Bahrain intercepted additional Iranian missile and drone attacks amid renewed US-Iran hostilities, while European aviation authorities expanded airspace warnings over the Gulf because of increased military activity and the risk posed to civilian aviation.

The latest escalation comes as tensions remain high around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global energy shipments. Any prolonged disruption to the waterway could affect international shipping, oil supplies and energy markets.

Kuwait’s position is particularly sensitive because it hosts US military forces and has become part of the wider security environment surrounding the confrontation between Washington and Tehran. The country has previously reported hostile drone activity in its airspace as regional military tensions have intensified.

The latest incident also highlights the risk that the conflict could spread further across the Gulf, drawing regional states more directly into the confrontation and increasing threats to military installations, critical infrastructure and commercial aviation.

Kuwaiti authorities have urged residents to follow official safety instructions as the country’s air defences remain on heightened alert.

The full circumstances of the latest incident, including the number of drones intercepted and any potential damage, remain unclear. Further details are expected as Kuwaiti authorities assess the situation.

The developments come amid broader fears that continued US-Iran hostilities could trigger a wider regional crisis, with Gulf governments closely monitoring threats to their territory and the security of vital energy and shipping routes.

The post Kuwait Says Air Defences Intercepted Iranian Drones appeared first on Khaama Press.

“What happened to Salman Khan?” Fans have flooded social media with reactions after the Bollywood star’s latest public appearance video went viral.

A recent public appearance by Bollywood star Salman Khan has sparked concern among fans on social media, with viewers commenting on his appearance in videos from an event in Mumbai.

Khan attended an official programme organised by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) in Mumbai on Friday, where he inaugurated a new Data Collection and Verification Support Centre and its IT server room. He also handed over house keys to beneficiaries during the event.

Videos and photographs from the programme quickly circulated online, but the discussion soon shifted from the event to Khan’s appearance, with some fans expressing concern about his health and wellbeing.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Da69aPXCf0h/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=AB4I1SMAgNZzp1s-ekrTCbb

One fan wrote, “He looks sick. God bless you.” Another commented, “My hero is getting old,” while a third asked, “Ye kya hogaya bhai ko?” meaning, “What has happened to him?”

Another user wrote, “Something really bad is happening to Salman.” Other fans responded more supportively, saying ageing is a natural part of life and expressing their continued affection for the actor.

There is no confirmed information in the report that Salman Khan is suffering from any new health condition. The online speculation appears to be based solely on viewers’ impressions of the videos, and Khan has not publicly addressed the comments about his appearance.

The 60-year-old actor remains one of Bollywood’s most closely followed stars, with his public appearances regularly generating widespread discussion across social media.

On the work front, Khan was most recently seen in a cameo as Jiva Mahala in Raja Shivaji, directed by Riteish Deshmukh, who also stars in the film alongside Genelia D’Souza, Abhishek Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt and Vidya Balan. The film is available to stream on Netflix.

Khan is next set to appear in Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, formerly titled Battle of Galwan. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film also stars Chitrangada Singh, Mukesh Rishi and Ankur Bhatia.

The latest viral videos have once again highlighted the intense public interest surrounding Khan, whose appearances and upcoming projects continue to attract significant attention from fans and entertainment audiences worldwide.

The post “What Happened to Salman Khan?” Actor’s Latest Video Goes Viral as Fans React: Watch appeared first on Khaama Press.

France recorded at least 5,764 heat-related deaths between June 17 and July 2, a 36% increase compared with the relevant baseline, as the country faced a period of extreme temperatures, according to the national public health agency.

Reuters reported the figures on Wednesday, citing the agency, which said people aged 75 and older accounted for about two-thirds of the deaths recorded during the period.

The figures highlight the disproportionate risks faced by older people during periods of extreme heat, particularly as prolonged high temperatures can worsen existing health conditions and place additional pressure on vulnerable populations.

The agency said the figures remain preliminary and could change as further data becomes available. Final figures are expected to be published at the end of the summer.

The latest estimate provides an early indication of the deadly health impact of extreme heat in France and comes amid growing concerns over increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves across Europe.

Extreme heat is particularly dangerous for older people, those with chronic health conditions and other vulnerable groups. French health authorities have repeatedly urged residents to take precautions during periods of high temperatures and to check regularly on elderly and vulnerable people.

The latest figures also add to growing evidence of the public health consequences of extreme heat across Europe. Scientists have warned that climate change is contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves, with rising global temperatures increasing the likelihood of prolonged periods of dangerous heat.

France has experienced several severe heatwaves in recent years, prompting authorities to strengthen heat-warning systems and public health measures designed to protect vulnerable populations.

The preliminary death toll is expected to receive further scrutiny when final data is released, particularly as authorities assess the broader health impact of the summer’s extreme temperatures.

The figures underscore the growing challenge facing governments across Europe as extreme heat becomes an increasingly significant threat to public health, particularly among ageing populations.

The post France Records Nearly 6,000 Heat-Related Deaths Amid Summer Heatwave appeared first on Khaama Press.

Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested four employees of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in Karachi over allegations of preparing fraudulent identity documents for Afghan nationals, local media reported.

According to Dawn, citing the FIA, the suspects are employees of NADRA, the government authority responsible for issuing national identity documents and maintaining Pakistan’s registration records.

The FIA said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects allegedly facilitated the issuance of fraudulent identity documents to Afghan nationals, tampered with official records and were involved in other illegal activities.

The agency has not publicly identified the suspects or disclosed how many Afghan nationals may have benefited from the alleged scheme. The investigation is continuing.

The arrests came about a month after three other NADRA employees were detained over allegations that they issued a Pakistani national identity card to an Afghan national who is currently in prison, according to Dawn.

The latest case has renewed attention on alleged corruption within Pakistan’s identity registration system, particularly as authorities have intensified scrutiny of Afghan nationals living in the country.

Pakistan has in recent years expanded its campaign against undocumented Afghan migrants, with large numbers of Afghans facing detention and deportation. The crackdown has drawn concern from humanitarian organisations and rights groups, which have urged Pakistan to ensure that deportations comply with international protection standards and that vulnerable individuals are not forcibly returned to situations where they may face serious risks.

The Pakistani government has defended its deportation policy, citing security and migration concerns.

The alleged involvement of NADRA employees in providing fraudulent documents could raise further questions about how some Afghan nationals obtained Pakistani identity papers and whether criminal networks or corrupt officials have exploited weaknesses in the country’s identity registration system.

The FIA has not yet provided further details on the investigation or indicated whether additional arrests are expected.

The post Four Arrested in Pakistan Over Alleged Fake Documents for Afghan Nationals appeared first on Khaama Press.

Online scam networks stole an estimated $88.3 billion to $114.1 billion from victims across the Asia-Pacific region in 2025, as organised criminal groups increasingly combine technology with human trafficking, money laundering and data theft, according to a new United Nations report.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said the losses linked to online scams across East and Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand reached tens of billions of dollars last year, with the total estimated losses exceeding the annual economic output of several countries in the region.

The report said many of the criminal networks are predominantly linked to Chinese organised crime groups, which have expanded beyond traditional criminal activities and developed interconnected operations spanning multiple illicit markets.

The UNODC’s regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific described the networks as increasingly interconnected, service-based criminal ecosystems. Their activities include online fraud, money laundering, human trafficking, migrant smuggling and data theft.

Scam centres operating mainly in Southeast Asia use increasingly sophisticated schemes to target victims around the world, generating billions of dollars in illicit revenue. The UN said nationals from at least 80 countries and territories have been identified in connection with these operations.

The criminal industry also relies heavily on human trafficking and forced labour. According to the report, recruitment networks use transit routes across Asia, the Middle East and Africa to move people into scam centres, where some victims are reportedly forced to carry out fraudulent activities.

Criminal groups are increasingly recruiting workers from outside Asia, with job advertisements reportedly targeting people who speak German, Polish, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, French, Swedish and English.

The UN warned that the scam industry is expanding both in scale and geography. Some networks have reportedly moved operations from established hubs in Myanmar and Laos to Pacific island nations and parts of Africa, where weaker government oversight and limited law enforcement capacity can make it easier for criminal groups to operate.

Weak governance and corruption were identified as major factors enabling technology-driven organised crime to expand. Criminal networks often seek jurisdictions where they can exploit gaps in regulation, enforcement and financial oversight.

The report also warned that artificial intelligence could make the threat increasingly difficult to contain. Criminal networks are already using AI to create convincing content and manipulate potential victims, while more advanced systems could eventually be used to identify targets automatically and facilitate cryptocurrency theft and money laundering.

The findings highlight the growing global reach of online fraud, which has evolved from isolated cybercrime operations into sophisticated criminal ecosystems that combine digital technology with traditional organised crime.

The UN called for stronger international cooperation, improved coordination between law enforcement agencies and greater efforts to disrupt the financial, technological and logistical infrastructure that enables scam networks to operate across borders.

The report’s findings also underscore the growing challenge facing governments as criminal groups exploit new technologies and international gaps in law enforcement to scale fraudulent operations across multiple continents.

The post Scammers Stole Up to $114 Billion as Southeast Asia’s Crime Gangs Expand Globally appeared first on Khaama Press.

Germany will continue deporting Afghan nationals convicted of serious crimes, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said following a fatal knife attack in the western city of Trier that allegedly involved an Afghan citizen.

Speaking in Berlin on Monday, Dobrindt described the deportation of convicted criminals to countries including Afghanistan as “necessary and unavoidable” and said the government would not abandon the policy.

“Society has the right to expect criminal asylum seekers to be deported,” Dobrindt said, according to German media reports.

His comments came after a 22-year-old student was killed in a knife attack in Trier. Police arrested a 22-year-old Afghan national on suspicion of carrying out the attack. Authorities have not yet established a final motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Initial reports said the suspect had a history of mental health problems and had previously received psychiatric treatment. The circumstances surrounding his mental health and any possible connection to the attack have not been fully established.

Dobrindt said public safety must remain a priority, arguing that people with mental health disorders can also commit serious crimes.

Germany has maintained technical contacts with Taliban authorities to facilitate the deportation of Afghan nationals convicted of crimes. Berlin has stressed that such contacts do not amount to recognition of the Taliban government and are limited to practical and consular matters.

The policy has drawn criticism from human rights organisations and refugee advocates, who have raised concerns about the safety of Afghans returned to the country under Taliban rule.

Afghanistan continues to face a severe humanitarian and human rights crisis, with international organisations reporting restrictions on fundamental freedoms, arbitrary detention and widespread poverty. Rights groups have also raised concerns over the rights of women and girls and limited access to justice.

The German government maintains that individuals convicted of serious crimes or considered a threat to public safety should be deported where legally possible, while insisting that returns must comply with international law and individual protection requirements.

The debate over deportations to Afghanistan is likely to continue as Germany seeks to balance tougher migration policies with its international obligations to protect people who may face serious harm upon return.

The post Germany Vows to Continue Deporting Afghan Convicts After Fatal Knife Attack appeared first on Khaama Press.

At least 23 people have been killed and more than 100 remain missing after flash floods swept through parts of Afghanistan’s northeastern Nuristan province, Taliban officials said, as search and rescue operations continued in areas affected by widespread destruction.

The Taliban’s National Disaster Management Authority said on Tuesday that the bodies of 15 victims had been recovered and about 80 people injured. The authority said the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach affected areas and continue searching for those missing.

The floods struck several parts of Nuristan, particularly Parun, the provincial capital, where floodwaters reportedly swept through the central market and damaged or destroyed homes, shops, hotels and vehicles.

Faridun Samim, a spokesperson for the Taliban governor in Nuristan, said the Taliban-appointed mayor of Parun was among those killed in the disaster.

According to the Taliban disaster management authority, the floods destroyed at least 70 shops, 11 hotels and seven residential houses. Samim estimated the economic losses at about $35 million, although the full scale of the damage has yet to be independently assessed.

Local residents described extensive destruction, saying floodwaters carried away businesses and personal belongings and left many families facing significant losses.

“Some of our relatives have been killed, and the floods swept away everything we owned,” one affected resident said.

Another resident said the floods had destroyed shops and carried away people’s belongings, describing the losses as enormous.

Taliban officials said emergency and rescue teams had been deployed to affected areas to search for missing people and assist survivors. However, continued rainfall could trigger further flooding and complicate rescue operations, officials warned.

The reported disaster highlights the vulnerability of Afghanistan’s remote and mountainous provinces to flash floods and other extreme weather events. Nuristan’s rugged terrain, limited road infrastructure and restricted emergency response capacity can make it difficult for rescue teams and humanitarian workers to reach communities affected by sudden disasters.

Afghanistan has experienced a series of deadly floods in recent years, with heavy seasonal rainfall causing deaths and damaging homes, farmland, roads and other infrastructure in several provinces. The impact is particularly severe for communities already facing economic hardship and limited access to essential services and humanitarian assistance.

The latest floods come as Afghanistan continues to face significant humanitarian needs following years of conflict, economic instability and repeated natural disasters. The loss of homes and livelihoods in Nuristan could further increase pressure on affected families and local communities.

With more than 100 people still reported missing, search and rescue operations are expected to continue as authorities assess the damage and identify the immediate needs of survivors.

The post Death Toll Rises to 23 After Devastating Floods in Afghanistan’s Nuristan appeared first on Khaama Press.

The UK’s new prime minister has pledged to improve living standards by reducing the cost of living and delivering greater economic stability, as the new government begins work on its policy agenda.

The prime minister, who took office on Monday, is now working to complete the Cabinet and appoint senior government officials.

As the UK’s seventh prime minister in the past decade, the new leader faces high public expectations and pressure to deliver on promises to improve household finances and strengthen the economy.

“We will help people live better lives by building a government that focuses on prevention and invests in people’s success, rather than paying for the costs of failure,” the prime minister said.

One of the government’s early measures is the removal of a 5% tax on household electricity consumption, a move aimed at easing financial pressure on families amid continued concerns over living costs.

The new government’s plans have drawn mixed reactions from people in London, with some expressing optimism while others remain cautious about whether the promised changes will translate into meaningful improvements in their daily lives.

“I feel positive about him. We still don’t know much about his plans, but the fact that he is talking about taking a different approach is encouraging to me,” one London resident said.

Another resident said the previous prime minister, Keir Starmer, had performed well but struggled to communicate his message effectively to the public.

“It seems the new prime minister is better at connecting with the public, and I think that is important in today’s world,” the resident said.

The new prime minister is also working to finalise the Cabinet and appoint senior officials who will oversee the government’s key policy areas.

The leader has held talks with several international leaders, including US President Donald Trump, and said Britain and the United States would continue cooperating on areas of mutual interest.

The new government’s ability to reduce living costs and deliver economic stability will ultimately depend on how effectively it implements its policies and fulfils its campaign promises in the months ahead.

The post UK’s New Prime Minister Pledges Lower Living Costs and Economic Stability appeared first on Khaama Press.

US forces carried out their 11th consecutive night of strikes against Iran, with explosions reported in Tehran, Tabriz and other parts of the country as Washington seeks to weaken Iran’s military capabilities and its ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the latest strikes targeted Iranian military operations centres, maritime capabilities, aircraft hangars, drone storage facilities and military logistics infrastructure.

CENTCOM said the strikes were intended to further degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the strategic waterway, a major route for global energy supplies.

Iranian media and local officials reported explosions in parts of Tehran, Bushehr and southern Iran. Strikes were also reported near the northwestern city of Tabriz and in Khuzestan province.

The reported strikes on Tehran and Tabriz would indicate a broader geographic scope for the latest US military campaign, which has largely focused on southern Iran and areas around the Strait of Hormuz.

The escalation comes amid a growing confrontation over the strategic waterway. CENTCOM said Iran had attacked more than 30 commercial vessels using the international waterway over the past three months, while maintaining that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial shipping.

The US military said its forces have helped facilitate the passage of about 900 commercial vessels carrying roughly 450 million barrels of crude oil through the strait since early May.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remained willing to pursue diplomacy with Tehran but warned that the United States would defend freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump has also threatened further attacks on a suspected Iranian nuclear site, while Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters warned that attacks across the region could intensify if Washington targets Iranian nuclear facilities.

The conflict is also placing a growing financial burden on the United States. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told Congress that the war with Iran had cost Washington $37.5 billion so far and said the Pentagon needed an additional $90 billion in funding.

The figures include costs already incurred and projected expenses through the end of the current fiscal year, according to the information provided to lawmakers.

As military tensions escalate, diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have also intensified. Iranian officials have held talks with senior Pakistani officials in Islamabad, while Qatar has stepped up diplomatic contacts with Saudi Arabia in efforts to support de-escalation and strengthen regional security.

The latest strikes come amid a broader struggle between Washington and Tehran over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about the potential impact of the conflict on global trade, oil supplies and energy markets.

The post US Carries Out 11th Night of Strikes on Iran as Explosions Rock Tehran, Tabriz appeared first on Khaama Press.

A Russian traveller’s decision to try a $1 face massage at a men’s salon in New Delhi has gone viral on social media, drawing a mix of amusement, curiosity and safety concerns from viewers.

The traveller, identified as Liubov, shared her experience on Instagram after visiting a local men’s salon while exploring the Indian capital, according to India Today, which reported on the video on July 21.

“Getting face massage in New Delhi, India. What a niche experience,” Liubov wrote in the caption accompanying the video.

The clip shows Liubov entering the salon and sitting in a barber’s chair before staff prepare her for the treatment. One of the workers clips back her hair, applies cream to her face and begins the massage.

The treatment features gentle, rhythmic movements as the worker massages her face, while other salon staff watch. Liubov appears relaxed throughout the session, smiling and laughing as she experiences the unfamiliar treatment.

She later described the experience in an overlay on the video, writing: “POV: $1 face massage in India.”

The video quickly attracted attention online, with viewers offering differing reactions to the unusual travel experience.

Some praised Liubov for exploring local experiences and trying something outside the usual tourist itinerary. Others, including some Indian users, expressed concern about her decision to visit an unfamiliar men’s salon while travelling alone.

“As an Indian, I will advise you, stay safe and don’t visit deserted areas,” one commenter wrote.

Other users clarified that their concerns were not specifically about men’s salons but about general safety precautions for solo travellers exploring unfamiliar areas.

They advised travellers to choose businesses that are busy or well-reviewed and to avoid isolated locations when visiting unfamiliar parts of a city.

The viral video has also highlighted how ordinary travel experiences can quickly attract international attention when they offer audiences a glimpse into local businesses and everyday customs that may be unfamiliar to foreign visitors.

For Liubov, the face massage appeared to be a lighthearted travel experience. The reaction to the video, however, also sparked a wider conversation about personal safety and situational awareness among people travelling alone in unfamiliar cities.

New Delhi is a major international tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. Travel safety experts generally advise visitors to remain aware of their surroundings, use reputable businesses and take basic precautions when exploring unfamiliar neighbourhoods.

The video and the reactions to it offer a glimpse into the unexpected experiences that can become memorable parts of international travel and, in the age of social media, sometimes turn into viral stories.

The post Viral Video: Russian Traveller Tries $1 Face Massage at Delhi Men’s Salon, Sparking Online Reactions appeared first on Khaama Press.

The United States’ war in Iran has cost Washington $37.5 billion, including expenses already incurred and projected costs through the end of the current fiscal year, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers, according to Reuters.

Hegseth appeared before Congress on Tuesday for the first time since the United States resumed heavy bombing operations against Iran, as lawmakers pressed the administration over the military campaign and its financial impact.

During the congressional hearing, Hegseth said the $37.5 billion figure includes specific costs associated with the war as well as projected expenses through September 30, according to Reuters.

The estimate is significantly higher than an earlier figure provided by the administration of President Donald Trump, which said the first six days of the conflict had cost at least $11 billion.

The latest estimate is likely to intensify scrutiny in Congress over the financial burden of the military campaign, particularly as US forces continue to incur expenses related to combat operations, logistics, military deployments and the movement of personnel and equipment.

Lawmakers from both parties have also raised concerns over the administration’s handling of the conflict and the level of information provided to Congress since the United States and Israel began bombing Iran on February 28, according to the supplied reporting.

Hegseth’s appearance comes amid a broader debate over the administration’s strategy in Iran, the objectives of the military campaign and the potential for further US involvement.

The $37.5 billion figure includes both costs already incurred and projected expenses through September 30. The total could therefore change depending on the duration and intensity of the conflict.

The administration’s earlier estimate of at least $11 billion for the first six days of the war had already raised questions about the campaign’s financial impact. The latest figure suggests a substantial increase in projected costs as military operations continue.

The conflict began with US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, according to the supplied reporting. The fighting has since involved repeated military operations and contributed to heightened tensions across the region.

The White House and Pentagon have not provided a detailed public breakdown of the $37.5 billion figure in the information available for this report. It remains unclear how much of the total represents direct combat operations, military deployments, logistics and other associated costs.

The financial burden of the conflict is expected to remain a key issue for Congress as lawmakers debate the administration’s military strategy, its objectives in Iran and the broader implications of continued US involvement.

The post US War in Iran Has Cost $37.5 Billion So Far, War Secretary Says appeared first on Khaama Press.

A 20-year-old bridesmaid in China was left permanently disabled after a wedding prank caused a spinal fracture, prompting a court to hold the newlyweds and others responsible.

A Chinese woman has been awarded about $34,000 in compensation after a wedding hazing prank left her seriously injured, according to a report by South China Morning Post.

The woman, identified only as Zhang, sued the bride, groom and nine other people involved in the incident, seeking $38,000 in compensation for medical expenses and emotional distress, the report said.

A court ultimately awarded Zhang about 34,000 US Dollar and apportioned liability among those involved in the incident.

The newlyweds were found 40% liable after the court determined that, as organisers of the wedding, they were aware of the hazing but failed to intervene, according to the report.

A man accused of pulling Zhang from a closet and suggesting the prank was held responsible for another 20% of the damages. The remaining participants were ordered to share the other 40% after failing to establish that they were not involved, the report said.

The case has drawn renewed attention to the risks associated with wedding hazing practices in China, where guests sometimes subject newlyweds, relatives or friends to elaborate pranks that can involve humiliation, coercion or physical danger.

While such rituals are often presented as part of wedding celebrations, some have resulted in serious injuries and legal disputes over who should be held responsible.

In 2018, a groom in Guizhou province reportedly suffered multiple injuries after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to escape a wedding prank, according to South China Morning Post.

Earlier this year, another groom in the same province reportedly broke his leg while fleeing a similar wedding ritual. A court later ordered those responsible to pay him 50,000 US Dollars in compensation.

The incidents have fuelled debate over the limits of wedding hazing and the responsibilities of organisers and participants when celebrations turn dangerous.

Critics argue that some wedding rituals can cross the line from harmless entertainment into behaviour that causes humiliation, coercion or physical harm. The latest case also demonstrates how courts can divide liability among multiple participants when a prank results in injury.

Zhang’s compensation was lower than the 38,000 US Dollars she initially sought. However, the ruling placed a significant share of responsibility on the newlyweds, finding that they had a duty as event organisers to intervene when they knew potentially harmful behaviour was taking place.

The case highlights the potential legal and financial consequences of allowing wedding pranks to escalate into dangerous conduct, particularly when participants suffer physical or psychological harm.

The post Chinese Wedding Prank Leaves 20-Year-Old Bridesmaid Permanently Disabled appeared first on Khaama Press.

Hashmatullah Shahidi has resigned as captain of Afghanistan’s one-day international (ODI) team with immediate effect, ending a four-year tenure in which he led the side at major international tournaments and oversaw several notable victories.

Shahidi announced his resignation on Wednesday in a post on Instagram, saying the decision was made personally and with respect for the responsibility he had held. “Today I announce with full respect and consent that I am resigning as captain of my team at my personal decision,” he wrote.

“It was a great honour for me to perform this responsibility as a Captain. I am proud to have served alongside my team with honesty, unity and commitment.”

The 31-year-old batter had served as Afghanistan’s ODI captain since January 2022. According to ESPNcricinfo, he led the team in 55 ODIs before stepping down following Afghanistan’s most recent ODI assignment against India in June 2026.

Shahidi’s tenure included leading Afghanistan at the 2023 Asia Cup, the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Under his leadership, Afghanistan won 27 of the 55 ODIs he captained. The team’s strongest run came during the 2023 World Cup in India, where Afghanistan defeated England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands and narrowly missed out on a place in the semi-finals.

Afghanistan finished sixth in the World Cup standings, a result that secured their qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. At that tournament, they defeated England but failed to reach the semi-finals after their match against Australia was abandoned because of rain.

During Shahidi’s captaincy, Afghanistan also recorded bilateral ODI series victories and wins against Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Ireland.

His time as captain also coincided with a period of growing recognition for Afghanistan as a competitive force in international cricket. The team’s performances against established sides, particularly during the 2023 World Cup, helped strengthen its position among the world’s leading associate-era success stories.

Shahidi also continued to contribute with the bat while leading the team. According to ESPNcricinfo, he averaged 33.79 with a strike rate of 70.77 in ODIs as captain, compared with an average of 32.97 and a strike rate of 64.39 when playing without the captaincy.

His only ODI century came in Afghanistan’s most recent ODI before his resignation. Shahidi scored 102 from 131 deliveries against India in Chennai, producing a notable individual performance despite Afghanistan’s defeat.

Shahidi’s resignation now leaves the Afghanistan Cricket Board with the task of selecting a new ODI captain ahead of the team’s next assignment.

Afghanistan are scheduled to tour Ireland in August for a five-match ODI series, which is expected to be the first ODI campaign under a new captain.

The post Hashmatullah Shahidi Resigns as Afghanistan’s ODI Captain After Four-Year Tenure appeared first on Khaama Press.

US President Donald Trump has approved a landmark 30-year nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia that could give the kingdom access to US nuclear technology and potentially allow uranium enrichment, The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing US officials.

The agreement, which could be worth tens of billions of dollars, is expected to give US companies a central role in developing Saudi Arabia’s nuclear infrastructure while limiting the involvement of competitors from countries such as Russia and China, according to the report.

A key provision would allow US companies to build a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia if a joint US-Saudi study concludes that such a facility is necessary, the newspaper reported.

The arrangement would also give Washington a role in monitoring Saudi Arabia’s nuclear activities, with Trump administration officials arguing that greater US involvement could help ensure the kingdom’s nuclear program remains focused on peaceful purposes.

The agreement is expected to be submitted to the US Congress for review in the coming days, according to the report. It could face opposition from lawmakers and nuclear nonproliferation advocates concerned about the potential risks of expanding nuclear capabilities in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia has long sought US support to develop a nuclear energy program as it looks to diversify its energy sources and reduce its dependence on oil. Riyadh has also previously said it wants the ability to enrich uranium as part of its nuclear ambitions.

Uranium enrichment is a particularly sensitive issue because the technology can be used for civilian nuclear energy but, at higher levels of enrichment, can also contribute to the production of nuclear weapons.

The reported agreement could significantly strengthen US economic and strategic ties with Saudi Arabia while giving American companies a major role in one of the kingdom’s most ambitious long-term energy projects.

The deal also comes amid broader efforts by Washington and Riyadh to deepen their strategic partnership and expand cooperation in energy, investment, defence and technology.

Any decision to permit uranium enrichment in Saudi Arabia is likely to draw close scrutiny from US lawmakers and regional governments, particularly as concerns grow over the possibility of a wider nuclear arms race in the Middle East.

The post Trump Approves 30-Year Nuclear Deal With Saudi Arabia, WSJ Says appeared first on Khaama Press.

India has sent humanitarian relief supplies, including food items and family tents, to Afghanistan following devastating floods in Nuristan province, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said on Tuesday.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, said the relief supplies were handed over to Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority to support communities affected by the floods.

“In the wake of the devastating floods in Nuristan, India delivers relief materials, including food items and family tents, to Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority to support affected communities,” Jaiswal said in a post on X.

“India stands with the Afghan people at this difficult time,” he added.

The assistance comes after severe flooding in Nuristan killed at least 20 people, injured about 80 others and left more than 100 people missing, according to Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority and Taliban officials.

The floods have also reportedly destroyed or damaged residential homes, agricultural land and shops, causing significant financial losses for affected communities.

The latest Indian aid adds to New Delhi’s humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, where millions of people continue to face humanitarian needs amid economic hardship, displacement and recurring natural disasters.

India has maintained humanitarian engagement with Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, while stopping short of formally recognising the Taliban government. New Delhi has previously provided humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, including food and medical supplies.

The latest relief delivery is focused on communities affected by the flooding in Nuristan, a mountainous province where difficult terrain and limited infrastructure can complicate emergency response and access to affected areas.

The full extent of the damage and the number of people requiring assistance remain subject to further assessment. Search, rescue and relief efforts are continuing in the affected areas.

The post India Sends Food and Family Tents to Flood-Hit Afghanistan’s Nuristan appeared first on Khaama Press.

World Cup winners celebrate with the original FIFA trophy, but the iconic gold cup soon returns to FIFA custody for future tournaments.

The FIFA World Cup Trophy is one of the most recognizable symbols in global sport, representing the highest achievement in international football. Made of 4.93 kilograms of 18-karat gold, the trophy has an estimated material value of about $713,000 and is widely regarded as one of the most valuable prizes in sport.

Yet the team that wins the World Cup does not receive the original trophy as a permanent possession.

The winning team is presented with the original trophy during the official awards ceremony and is allowed to celebrate with it after the final. The trophy is then returned to FIFA, which retains custody of the original as part of the tournament’s history and heritage.

The champions instead receive a replica trophy that closely resembles the original. The replica is gold-plated rather than made entirely of solid gold and is retained by the winning country’s football federation as a permanent reminder of its World Cup triumph.

The policy is designed not only to protect a valuable object but also to preserve the continuity of the tournament. The same original trophy can be presented to each new World Cup champion, linking generations of winners to the competition’s history.

Security is another consideration. Given the trophy’s financial value and global significance, FIFA keeps the original under strict security arrangements rather than allowing individual national football associations to retain it permanently.

The decision also reflects the history of the previous World Cup trophy, the Jules Rimet Trophy.

Under the rules at the time, Brazil was allowed to keep the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently after winning the World Cup for the third time in 1970. The trophy was later stolen in 1983 from the headquarters of the Brazilian Football Confederation in Rio de Janeiro.

Despite an investigation, the original trophy was never recovered. It is widely believed that the thieves melted it down and sold the gold, although the fate of the trophy has never been officially established.

The disappearance of the Jules Rimet Trophy remains one of the most notable losses in the history of international sport. The incident also highlighted the challenges of protecting iconic sporting artifacts and preserving them as part of global heritage.

The current FIFA World Cup Trophy was introduced for the 1974 tournament in West Germany, replacing the Jules Rimet Trophy. Since then, FIFA has retained ownership of the original trophy and does not allow World Cup champions to keep it permanently.

The trophy’s significance, however, extends far beyond the value of the gold used to make it. It represents decades of football history and the achievements of the world’s greatest national teams.

For the players who lift it, the moment may last only briefly. But the image of a World Cup champion raising the trophy above their head has become one of the most enduring and recognizable scenes in global sport.

The post FIFA World Cup Trophy Explained: Why Winners Cannot Keep the Original Gold Cup appeared first on Khaama Press.

The first Chinese transit train to use Iran’s railway network has delivered a shipment to Herat in western Afghanistan, Iranian media reported on Tuesday.

The train carried 500 tonnes of cargo, including fibreboard sheets, and reached Herat after the goods were unloaded and reloaded before continuing through Iran’s railway network, according to the reports.

Mustafa Rezaei, head of the Iran-Afghanistan railway corridor, said the launch of the service marked the beginning of the Herat-Khaf railway’s operational expansion for transit and trade.

He said the new route could help reduce the time and cost of transporting goods between the countries involved.

The development comes as Afghanistan seeks to expand regional trade and transit links and reduce its reliance on traditional transport routes. The Herat-Khaf railway is expected to provide a connection between Afghanistan’s western markets and Iran’s wider rail network, potentially creating new opportunities for the movement of goods.

Economic experts have said the railway could strengthen Afghanistan’s position as a transit link between Central Asia, Iran and China. However, the scale of its impact will depend on the expansion and reliability of rail infrastructure, customs procedures and cross-border trade arrangements.

The latest shipment also marks a further step in efforts to connect Afghanistan with regional transportation networks. Improved rail links could allow businesses to move cargo more efficiently and provide an alternative to road-based transport, which can involve longer travel times and higher costs.

The Herat-Khaf railway connects Herat in western Afghanistan with Khaf in northeastern Iran. The route has been developed to facilitate the movement of goods and strengthen economic ties between Afghanistan and Iran.

The reported arrival of the Chinese cargo marks a potentially important development for regional transit, particularly if regular freight services are established and the route is integrated into broader trade corridors linking China, Iran and Central Asia.

The post First China Transit Train Reaches Herat via Iran Rail Network appeared first on Khaama Press.

The bodies of five Afghan young men from Mir Qasim Jan village in Chamtal district of northern Balkh province were buried on Tuesday after they reportedly died while travelling to Iran through an irregular migration route, local sources said.

The five men had reportedly left their homes about a week earlier in an attempt to travel to Iran. According to local sources, they died in the deserts of Nimroz province due to extreme heat and a lack of drinking water.

Their deaths highlight the dangers faced by Afghans travelling through unofficial routes to reach Iran, particularly across remote desert areas where extreme temperatures, dehydration and limited access to water can pose serious risks.

The incident comes as efforts reportedly continue to locate another group of Afghan migrants who went missing while attempting to travel to Iran through an irregular route in Nimroz.

According to information provided by local sources, 19 young men reportedly left for Iran about two weeks earlier and later disappeared in the province’s deserts. Their vehicle allegedly broke down in the Margow desert in Chakhansur district, after which the group reportedly lost its way.

The sources said extreme heat and a lack of drinking water led to deaths among some members of the group, while the whereabouts of 14 others remained unknown. Search efforts were reportedly continuing.

The latest reports are part of a broader pattern of deaths involving Afghans attempting to reach Iran through unofficial routes. Migrants travelling through remote areas can face extreme heat, dehydration, difficult terrain and the risk of becoming lost far from populated areas.

Despite the risks, Afghans continue to use irregular routes to reach Iran from different parts of the country, particularly through border provinces. Economic hardship, unemployment, limited legal migration opportunities and difficulties obtaining visas are among factors often cited for the use of such routes.

The deaths also underscore the broader risks facing Afghan migrants who rely on dangerous and unregulated routes in search of work or better economic opportunities.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths of the five young men and the reported disappearance of the other migrants could not be independently verified from the information available.

The post Five Afghan Migrants Found Dead After Attempting to Reach Iran appeared first on Khaama Press.

Mia Khalifa is celebrating Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph after reportedly placing a $1 million bet on the team to defeat Argentina in the final, with the winning wager returning nearly $1.65 Million

Following Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, Khalifa shared a screenshot of her betting slip on social media showing that she had wagered around Rs 9.65 crore, equivalent to $1 million, on Spain.

“Believed and won big. So proud of my home country Spain, not a drop of Spanish blood in me,” Khalifa wrote in a post celebrating the result.

The reported payout of nearly $1.65 million included her original stake. Based on the figures cited in the report, her estimated net profit from the wager was around $730,000, although the exact amount could vary depending on the betting odds, platform fees, currency conversion rates and any applicable taxes.

The bet paid off after Spain secured its second men’s World Cup title by defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time.

Barcelona forward Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute after coming on as a substitute. The victory ended Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive men’s World Cup titles.

Khalifa appeared to celebrate Spain’s victory from the stadium, sharing photographs of herself wearing a Spain jersey featuring the name of teenage star Lamine Yamal.

Her post also drew attention because of her humorous reference to her support for Spain despite acknowledging that she has no Spanish ancestry.

The reported size of the wager and the resulting payout quickly became a talking point online, adding a celebrity betting angle to a final that already attracted global attention.

The financial figures, however, should be viewed separately from the headline payout. While the total return was reportedly around 1.65 million USD, Khalifa’s original stake accounted for approximately 730,000 USD of that amount.

The report did not provide a confirmed calculation of any tax liability, and the actual amount that could be owed would depend on the relevant tax rules, her tax residency and the jurisdiction governing the betting transaction.

Spain’s victory also capped a successful tournament for a team that entered the final as European champions. Torres’ late strike secured the trophy in a tense match in which Argentina struggled to find an equaliser after falling behind in extra time.

For Khalifa, however, the final had an additional financial dimension. Her reported $1 million bet on Spain turned into a $1.65 million payout after Torres’ decisive goal, giving her another reason to celebrate the European side’s historic victory.

The post Mia Khalifa Wins $1.65 Million After Betting $1 Million on Spain’s 2026 World Cup Victory appeared first on Khaama Press.

Lionel Messi’s future in international football is once again under the spotlight after Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni addressed speculation over whether the 39-year-old superstar will retire following Argentina’s World Cup final defeat.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has said Lionel Messi will continue playing for as long as he wants, leaving the decision over the 39-year-old captain’s future to the player himself after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

ANI reported on Tuesday, July 21, that Scaloni praised Messi following Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in Sunday’s final in New Jersey, saying the veteran forward would have the full support of his teammates and those around him if he chooses to continue his career.

“He’s going to play up until he decides to do so, and that all the team players, team-mates, and all of his people were going to support him,” Scaloni said, as quoted by The Athletic. “I hope that everyone feels proud of him and of what he’s achieved because he’s the best football player ever.”

Scaloni’s comments came after speculation over whether the final could mark the end of Messi’s World Cup career. The Argentina captain is now 39, and the 2026 tournament was his sixth appearance at the competition.

Messi led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022, completing one of the most significant chapters of his international career. He also helped his country win the Copa America in 2021 and 2024.

The defeat to Spain denied Argentina the chance to retain the World Cup title. Spain secured a 1-0 victory after extra time, with substitute Ferran Torres reportedly scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute.

For Scaloni, the result ended Argentina’s bid for back-to-back World Cup titles but did not diminish his assessment of Messi’s contribution to the national team.

The manager’s comments also leave open the possibility that Messi could continue playing for Argentina beyond the 2026 tournament. However, Scaloni did not announce that Messi would remain with the national team or confirm whether he plans to participate in future international competitions.

Instead, the coach made clear that the decision rests with Messi. Spain’s victory secured the country’s second men’s World Cup title after its previous triumph in 2010. The result also added to a successful period for the Spanish team following its Euro 2024 title.

The final marked another major moment for Spain’s younger generation, including 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who emerged as one of the tournament’s most prominent young players.

Spain’s campaign was built on a combination of possession-based football and contributions from several key players. Midfielder Rodri was influential in controlling matches, while Mikel Oyarzabal was among the team’s leading scorers. Goalkeeper Unai Simon was also recognised for his performances during the tournament.

Torres’ winning goal added another chapter to Spain’s tournament success. According to the supplied reports, he became only the fifth substitute to score in a World Cup final and the first since Germany’s Mario Gotze scored against Argentina in the 2014 final.

For Argentina, however, the focus after the final quickly shifted to Messi’s future. The veteran forward has already achieved the biggest prize in international football and remains the central figure of Argentina’s most successful period in recent years. Whether he continues beyond the 2026 World Cup will ultimately be his decision, according to Scaloni.

The post Lionel Messi Retiring From Football? Argentina Coach Scaloni Breaks His Silence appeared first on Khaama Press.

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro is reportedly coming soon with a new 2nm A20 Pro chip, major camera upgrades and enhanced on-device AI features.

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro lineup is expected to launch in September 2026, with reports and leaks pointing to a new 2-nanometre chip, camera upgrades and improved on-device artificial intelligence capabilities.

Apple has not officially announced the iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max, and has yet to confirm their launch date, specifications or pricing. Details currently circulating are based on industry reports, supply-chain information and leaks cited by technology publications.

One of the most closely watched potential upgrades is Apple’s reported A20 Pro chip, which is expected to use a 2nm manufacturing process. If confirmed, the move would mark a shift beyond the 3nm technology used in recent iPhone generations.

A smaller chip manufacturing process can allow more transistors to be packed into a similar area, potentially improving processing performance and power efficiency. The actual benefits, however, will depend on Apple’s final chip design and how the technology is implemented.

The reported 2nm chip could also support Apple’s push to expand artificial intelligence features that run directly on the device, reducing reliance on cloud-based processing.

The iPhone 18 Pro series is also rumoured to use a new packaging technology known as Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module, or WMCM. Reports suggest the technology could improve how components are integrated and potentially boost performance for AI, gaming and video processing, although Apple has not confirmed the technology or its benefits.

Camera improvements are another area of speculation. Reports suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max could feature a Sony IMX905 primary camera sensor and possibly introduce a variable-aperture system.

A variable aperture allows a camera lens to control how much light enters the sensor and can provide greater control over depth of field. If introduced, the technology could offer photographers and video creators more flexibility in different lighting conditions.

Claims about improvements to low-light photography, dynamic range and portrait images remain unconfirmed and will require independent testing if the technology is introduced.

Pricing estimates have also begun to circulate. The Economic Times, citing industry estimates, reported that the iPhone 18 Pro could start at around $1,099 in the United States, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max could reportedly cost between $1,399 and $1,499 for its base configuration.

Those prices are speculative and could change before any official announcement.

Apple typically unveils its new iPhone lineup in September, but the company has not yet confirmed an event date for 2026.

If the reported upgrades are accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup could bring significant changes to Apple’s flagship smartphones, particularly in chip technology, AI processing and camera hardware. For now, however, the key specifications remain unconfirmed and should be treated as rumours until Apple makes an official announcement.

The post iPhone 18 Pro Coming Soon: 2nm Chip, Major Camera Upgrade Reportedly on the Way appeared first on Khaama Press.

US President Donald Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would not be arrested in the United States, after New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city was examining whether it had legal authority to detain him if he visits New York.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would not be arrested while in the United States, responding to growing debate over whether New York authorities could detain him if he visits the city.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said Netanyahu would not be arrested in the United States “under any circumstances.”

Trump did not directly mention New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani in the post. He also praised Israel for what he described as its assistance to the United States during the conflict with Iran.

Mamdani, who was elected mayor of New York after campaigning on a pledge to seek Netanyahu’s arrest if he entered the city, raised the issue in an interview with The New York Times published on Saturday.

He said New York City’s legal department was examining what authority the city might have to take such action.

“I believe that Prime Minister Netanyahu should be in The Hague. He is a war criminal who is being pursued by the International Criminal Court,” Mamdani said.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in November 2024, alleging war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Israel rejects the court’s jurisdiction and has denied the allegations.

The ICC’s arrest warrants do not automatically mean that local authorities in every country are required to detain individuals named by the court. The United States and Israel are not parties to the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC, and both reject the court’s jurisdiction in the case.

Netanyahu’s potential travel to New York has particular significance because he regularly attends the annual United Nations General Assembly in September, raising the possibility of renewed debate over the warrant and his legal status.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry criticised Mamdani’s remarks in a statement on Sunday, describing the ICC as a “kangaroo court” and calling the arrest warrant against Netanyahu “baseless.”

The ministry also accused Mamdani of targeting Israel’s prime minister and attempting to divert attention from what it described as domestic political issues.

The ICC, established in 2002, prosecutes individuals accused of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and, under certain conditions, the crime of aggression.

The warrant against Netanyahu has become a major source of diplomatic and political tension. Supporters of the ICC say its warrants should be respected by member states, while Israel and its allies have challenged the court’s jurisdiction and rejected the allegations against Israeli officials.

The post Trump Says Netanyahu ‘Will Not Be Arrested’ in US After Mamdani Remarks appeared first on Khaama Press.

Shah Rukh Khan-starrer King is reportedly nearing the end of production, with the filmmakers scouting locations in the United States and South America for a final international shooting schedule ahead of its expected December 2026 release.

Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming action thriller King is reportedly approaching the final stage of production, with the filmmakers planning one more international shooting schedule before the film’s expected theatrical release in December 2026.

According to a report by Mid-day, the production team is considering locations in the United States and South America for the final schedule, which could take place in August. The locations have not yet been officially confirmed.

A team is reportedly in the United States scouting locations and assessing logistical arrangements, while options in parts of South America are also being considered before a final decision is made.

If the schedule goes ahead as planned, the cast and crew could travel to the selected location next month to film a key remaining sequence and complete principal photography, the report said.

Most of the film has reportedly already been shot, with the final international schedule expected to focus on a major sequence that requires a distinctive and relatively unexplored setting.

The location search is reportedly part of plans by Shah Rukh Khan and director Siddharth Anand to give the remaining portion of the film a visually distinctive backdrop.

King has attracted significant attention as it marks the first major theatrical collaboration between Shah Rukh Khan and his daughter, Suhana Khan, who is set to make her big-screen debut. Suhana previously appeared in the 2023 Netflix film The Archies.

The film is directed by Siddharth Anand, whose previous action films include War and Pathaan. Shah Rukh Khan also starred in Pathaan, which became one of the biggest Hindi-language box-office successes of 2023.

The reported ensemble cast includes Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Anil Kapoor, Jaideep Ahlawat, Jackie Shroff, Arshad Warsi, Abhay Verma and Raghav Juyal.

King is expected to arrive in cinemas in December 2026, although the exact release date and details of the reported international schedule have yet to be officially confirmed by the filmmakers or distributor.

With production reportedly nearing completion, the film is shaping up as one of the major Hindi-language releases expected at the end of 2026, driven by Shah Rukh Khan’s return to the big screen, Suhana Khan’s theatrical debut and the film’s action-focused premise.

The post Shah Rukh Khan and Daughter Suhana Khan’s ‘King’ Nears Final Shoot Ahead of December Release appeared first on Khaama Press.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said journalism is facing unprecedented pressure.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has warned that press freedom and independent journalism are facing growing global pressure from censorship, attacks on journalists, AI-generated misinformation and declining support for independent media.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) on Monday highlighted growing threats to journalism worldwide, citing a UNESCO-supported report on the challenges facing independent media and the importance of free journalism.

In a post on Facebook, UNAMA said the report examines the role of independent journalism in providing reliable information, promoting transparency, combating corruption and helping societies respond to crises.

The UN mission posed the question, “If free journalism is weakened, what will we lose?”, warning that the erosion of independent media could undermine the public interest and limit people’s access to accurate and reliable information.

The warning comes as journalists and independent media outlets in Afghanistan continue to face significant restrictions and pressure following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021.

Media rights organisations have documented restrictions on journalists, limited access to information and growing challenges for independent media outlets. Economic pressures, reduced media funding and the departure of journalists from the country have also weakened Afghanistan’s media sector.

Journalists in Afghanistan have faced restrictions on reporting, while media organisations have repeatedly raised concerns about censorship and limited access to official information.

UNAMA’s warning also comes amid wider global concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism. The rapid spread of AI-generated misinformation and disinformation has raised concerns about public trust in news, while declining financial support for independent media has placed additional pressure on news organisations.

The UNESCO-supported report cited by UNAMA highlights the broader importance of independent journalism in ensuring that citizens can access trustworthy information and hold institutions accountable.

The post UNAMA Warns of Rising Censorship and Attacks on Journalists appeared first on Khaama Press.

The US Central Command said on Tuesday that a new round of American strikes against Iranian military targets had ended, as tensions between Washington and Tehran remained high.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Tuesday that a new round of American military strikes against Iran had ended, following attacks targeting Iranian military and strategic capabilities.

In a post on X, CENTCOM said the latest round of strikes ended at 9 p.m. Eastern Time. The exact date and timing of the operation should be confirmed against official military records before publication.

According to CENTCOM, US forces targeted Iranian military command centres, maritime capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and air-defense systems.

The US military did not provide further details on the locations of the strikes, the number of targets hit or the extent of damage caused by the operation.

The claims about the targets and the impact of the strikes could not be independently verified. CENTCOM also said commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz was continuing despite heightened military tensions in the region.

The command claimed that US forces had facilitated the passage of approximately 900 commercial vessels carrying about 450 million barrels of crude oil since May. The statement did not provide further details on the vessels or the nature of the US military support involved.

The Strait of Hormuz, which lies between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important energy transit routes. Any disruption to shipping through the waterway could have significant consequences for global oil supplies and energy markets.

The latest US military operation comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with both sides claiming to have carried out attacks against military targets in recent days.

The post US Says New Strikes Targeted Iranian Military, Missile and Air Defense Sites appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Tuesday it targeted US military sites in Kuwait and Bahrain with missile and drone strikes, including an air base, radar facilities and a Patriot defense system.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Tuesday it carried out missile and drone strikes against US military sites in Kuwait and Bahrain, claiming it destroyed or damaged radar, communications and air defense facilities.

The IRGC said the attacks targeted Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, where it claimed to have struck an MQ-9 drone hangar and destroyed or severely damaged several drones.

The force also said the attack destroyed a long-range radar installation, a communications centre, satellite-receiving systems and a US missile-defense radar at the base.

In a separate statement, the IRGC claimed it had destroyed a US radar facility and a Patriot air-defense system in Bahrain.

The IRGC said the attacks were part of the second phase of the 24th wave of its Operation Nasr 2, adding that its military operations were continuing.

The claims could not be independently verified, and the IRGC did not provide details about possible casualties or the extent of damage caused by the reported strikes.

The reported attacks come amid a sharp escalation in military confrontation between Iran and the United States. Washington has intensified strikes against targets in Iran in recent days, while Tehran has retaliated by targeting facilities and military bases it says are being used by US forces across the Gulf and the wider region.

The latest exchange of fire has raised concerns that the conflict could spread further across the Middle East, potentially threatening regional security, military installations and international shipping routes.

The escalation comes despite a Pakistan-brokered memorandum of understanding reportedly signed by Iran and the United States in June aimed at ending the conflict and paving the way for a lasting peace agreement.

Neither the US nor Kuwaiti or Bahraini authorities had immediately commented on the IRGC’s latest claims at the time of publication.

The post Iran Says Missiles Hit US Military Base in Kuwait, Destroyed Drone Hangar appeared first on Khaama Press.

At least 20 people were killed and more than 80 injured in flooding in Parun, capital of Afghanistan’s northeastern Nuristan province, reports said on Monday.

At least 20 people have been killed, about 80 injured and more than 100 remain missing after severe flooding struck Parun, the capital of Afghanistan’s northeastern Nuristan province, and surrounding areas, Taliban authorities said on Monday.

The Taliban-run National Disaster Management Authority said in a statement that heavy floods had affected Parun and several other parts of the mountainous province, causing significant casualties and widespread damage.

Hafiz Mohammad Yousuf Hamad, the authority’s head of information and publications and spokesperson, said specialized teams had been dispatched to the affected areas to assess the situation, search for missing people and determine the extent of the damage.

The floods destroyed or damaged residential homes, agricultural land and shops belonging to local residents, leaving significant financial losses in addition to the reported loss of life, according to the disaster management authority.

Hamad said the casualty figures could change as search and rescue operations continue and teams reach areas that may have been cut off by floodwaters and debris.

More than 100 people were reported missing, raising concerns that the death toll could increase as rescue teams continue searching for survivors and those who may have been swept away by the floods.

The reported casualty figures and the scale of the destruction could not be independently verified.

The flooding followed heavy rainfall in parts of Nuristan, where mountainous terrain and limited road access can make emergency response and rescue operations particularly difficult.

The disaster comes as Afghanistan remains highly vulnerable to extreme weather events, including flash floods, landslides and droughts. Years of conflict, poverty, weak infrastructure and limited emergency response capacity have increased the vulnerability of communities, particularly in remote and mountainous areas.

Seasonal floods have repeatedly caused deaths and extensive damage across Afghanistan in recent years, destroying homes, farmland and infrastructure and forcing thousands of people from their communities.

The latest flooding is also expected to place additional pressure on local authorities and humanitarian organizations responding to affected families, particularly those who have lost homes, farmland or sources of income.

The post At Least 20 Killed, 80 Injured in Severe Flooding in Afghanistan’s Nuristan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Nearly 100 US service members have suffered injuries since July 7 amid ongoing hostilities with Iran, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said on Monday.

Nearly 100 U.S. service members have suffered injuries since July 7 amid ongoing hostilities with Iran, the Pentagon said on Monday, providing a new estimate of American military casualties.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a post on X that nearly 100 U.S. personnel had sustained “some degree of injury” since July 7.

The statement did not specify the nature or severity of the injuries, nor did it provide a breakdown of casualties by incident or location.

The Pentagon also identified two service members who were killed in an attack on Friday evening, according to the information provided.

The Trump administration had previously declined to release detailed figures on U.S. military personnel injured in recent attacks.

Figures attributed to the U.S. Department of Defense indicate that 18 U.S. service members have been killed and 447 injured since the conflict began on February 28.

The latest disclosure comes as hostilities between the United States and Iran continue, with U.S. military facilities in the region facing attacks and Washington carrying out military operations against Iranian targets.

The Pentagon has not provided further details on the circumstances surrounding the reported injuries or the extent of damage caused by recent attacks.

Iranian authorities had not publicly responded to the Pentagon’s latest casualty figures at the time of publication.

The United States and Iran have remained in direct military confrontation amid a wider escalation in the region. The Strait of Hormuz and U.S. military facilities across the Middle East have emerged as key flashpoints, raising concerns over further attacks, regional instability and the potential impact on global energy and shipping markets.

The post Nearly 100 US Troops Injured Since July 7, Pentagon Says appeared first on Khaama Press.

The Trump administration is considering possible restrictions on advanced Chinese artificial intelligence models over national security concerns, Axios reported, though no final decision has been made.

The Trump administration is considering measures that could restrict or limit Americans’ access to advanced Chinese artificial intelligence models over national security and cybersecurity concerns, Axios reported.

According to the report, U.S. officials are examining potential risks linked to the growing availability of Chinese-developed AI systems, including concerns over data security, espionage and technological dependence on a strategic competitor.

The discussions come as Chinese open-source AI models, including Kimi, have gained attention for offering lower-cost alternatives to some leading U.S.-developed artificial intelligence systems.

Axios reported that officials are particularly focused on advanced Chinese models that have become increasingly competitive in performance and affordability.

Supporters of tighter controls argue that limiting access to certain Chinese AI technologies could help protect sensitive data and reduce reliance on foreign systems in a strategically important sector.

Critics, however, warn that broad restrictions could reduce competition in the U.S. AI market, benefit major American technology companies by limiting cheaper alternatives, and potentially slow innovation.

The reported discussions are part of wider U.S. efforts to reduce dependence on Chinese technology in areas considered important to national security, including semiconductors, telecommunications and advanced computing.

Neither the White House nor developers of the Chinese AI models mentioned in the Axios report had publicly commented at the time of publication.

Artificial intelligence has become a major area of competition between Washington and Beijing, with both countries investing heavily in advanced models, computing infrastructure and AI research.

U.S. officials have increasingly described AI as a strategic technology linked to economic competitiveness, cybersecurity and national security, while Chinese companies have expanded open-source AI offerings that compete globally on cost and accessibility.

The post US Considers Curbs on Chinese AI Models Over Security Concerns appeared first on Khaama Press.

Switzerland has contributed $2.4 million to support the UN refugee agency’s humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, helping displaced people, returnees and vulnerable communities, UNHCR said Monday.

Switzerland has contributed $2.4 million to support humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said on Monday, as humanitarian agencies continue to appeal for international funding to address growing needs across the country.

In a statement posted on X, UNHCR Afghanistan thanked the government and people of Switzerland for the contribution, saying the funding would strengthen the agency’s ability to respond to evolving humanitarian needs and provide flexible support where it is needed most.

According to UNHCR, the funding will help deliver protection and assistance to displaced Afghans, support returnees rebuilding their lives, and assist vulnerable host communities facing increasing economic and humanitarian pressures.

The agency said flexible funding is particularly important as Afghanistan experiences a rise in the number of returning refugees and migrants, placing additional strain on communities already struggling with poverty, unemployment and limited access to basic services.

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. According to UN agencies, millions of people continue to rely on humanitarian assistance following years of conflict, economic decline, climate-related disasters and widespread displacement.

Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that funding shortages are forcing aid agencies to reduce essential services, including emergency shelter, protection, healthcare and support for displaced families. They have called on international donors to maintain financial assistance to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions.

UNHCR did not provide additional details on the implementation timeline or specific projects that will be financed through the Swiss contribution.

Afghanistan has seen a sharp increase in the return of Afghan refugees and undocumented migrants from neighboring countries in recent months, adding pressure to an already overstretched humanitarian response. UNHCR and other aid agencies continue to provide emergency assistance, legal protection and reintegration support while urging sustained international funding to meet growing humanitarian needs.

The post Switzerland Contributes $2.4 Million to Support UNHCR Aid Operations in Afghanistan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Police fired tear gas and used batons against thousands of protesters marching toward India’s Parliament on Monday as demonstrators demanded accountability over alleged exam corruption.

Indian police fired tear gas and used batons to disperse thousands of protesters attempting to march toward Parliament in New Delhi on Monday, as a youth-led movement demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged corruption in the country’s examination system.

The demonstration, organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), coincided with the opening day of Parliament’s monsoon session and became one of the largest anti-government protests in India in recent years. The Guardian reported that thousands of mostly students and young people defied police restrictions, filled central Delhi’s streets, and marched despite heavy security measures.

Delhi Police, which had denied permission for the march, imposed restrictions on public gatherings, barricaded major roads around the capital, and suspended internet services in parts of central New Delhi before protesters attempted to move toward Parliament.

Police said more than 10,000 people gathered near Jantar Mantar and surrounding areas. Officers blocked demonstrators from advancing, citing public safety concerns after the designated protest area reached capacity.

Videos circulating on social media showed riot police firing tear gas and charging protesters with batons as crowds attempted to breach barricades. Protest organizers accused authorities of using excessive force, while police disputed reports that large-scale clashes had occurred.

The CJP also claimed its founder, Abhijeet Dipke, was detained during the protests, although authorities had not immediately confirmed the detention.

The movement emerged earlier this year after allegations of widespread irregularities in India’s national medical entrance examination (NEET). Last month, authorities ordered nearly 2.2 million candidates to retake the exam after cancelling the original test following allegations that question papers had been leaked.

Protesters said the examination scandal reflected broader failures in India’s education system, including alleged corruption, lack of transparency, and limited employment opportunities for young graduates. Organizers have also linked the controversy to reports of more than 20 student suicides following the examination crisis.

The protests gained additional momentum after prominent education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk launched a hunger strike in support of students. Organizers said Wangchuk was later taken to hospital under police supervision, prompting further criticism from opposition politicians and civil society groups.

According to protest organizers, government representatives invited two CJP members for talks with senior cabinet minister J.P. Nadda, but demonstrators vowed to continue protests until their demands—including the education minister’s resignation and examination reforms—are addressed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had not publicly commented on Monday’s demonstrations at the time of publication.

India’s competitive entrance examinations determine admission to universities and professional institutions for millions of students each year. Repeated allegations of question paper leaks, cheating networks, and administrative failures have intensified public scrutiny of the examination system.

The Cockroach Janta Party began as a satirical online movement before evolving into a nationwide youth campaign demanding education reforms and greater government accountability. The group’s name references remarks by a senior judge that protesters later adopted as a symbol of defiance. Monday’s demonstration marked its largest mobilization to date and highlighted growing frustration among India’s younger generation over education, employment, and governance.

The post Thousands Defy Police Orders and March Toward India’s Parliament in Delhi appeared first on Khaama Press.

At least 25 people have died after heavy monsoon rains triggered floods and landslides across northern and northeastern India, with more rain forecast in the coming days.

At least 25 people have been killed after heavy monsoon rains triggered floods and landslides across northern and northeastern India, authorities said on Monday, as rescue teams searched for missing people and weather officials warned of continued downpours.

The deaths were reported across several states in the Himalayan region, where swollen rivers, landslides and flash floods have disrupted transport and forced thousands of residents from their homes.

Officials said 15 people died in Indian-administered Kashmir after heavy rain caused landslides and flooding in several districts. Search-and-rescue operations were continuing for people reported missing.

In the northeastern state of Nagaland, authorities said nine people were killed in multiple landslides. Rescue teams have recovered four bodies so far, while efforts to locate others continued.

In neighbouring Assam, one person died in flooding on Sunday. State disaster management authorities said rising waters had affected more than 57,000 people across seven districts, inundating homes, roads and farmland.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned that active monsoon conditions are likely to persist across northwestern, eastern and northeastern India over the next six to seven days, increasing the risk of additional floods, landslides and river overflows.

Heavy rainfall has also affected neighbouring Nepal. Since the monsoon began in mid-June, Nepalese authorities have reported 27 deaths linked to floods, landslides, heavy rain and lightning. One person remains missing and 69 others have been injured.

Several major highways, including the main route connecting Kathmandu with Nepal’s southern plains, have been blocked by landslides, disrupting travel and the movement of goods, officials said.

Authorities in both India and Nepal urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert, avoid flood-prone locations and follow evacuation orders where necessary as rescue operations continued.

The annual southwest monsoon, which typically runs from June to September, is vital for agriculture across South Asia but frequently causes deadly floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous regions.

The post At Least 25 Dead as Monsoon Floods and Landslides Sweep Northern India appeared first on Khaama Press.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran is seeking to use the Strait of Hormuz as leverage amid regional tensions while Washington remains open to diplomacy.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran is attempting to use the Strait of Hormuz as a pressure tool against the international community amid rising tensions in the Middle East, while maintaining that Washington remains open to diplomatic engagement.

Speaking on Sunday, Rubio said Tehran was seeking greater influence over the strategic waterway and using its importance to global trade as leverage.

“The United States will do what is necessary to protect global shipping,” Rubio said, adding that other countries should also contribute to securing the waterway through military support or financial resources.

The US secretary of state said Washington was prepared to pursue a diplomatic path with Iran, but warned that failing to reach an agreement would not serve Tehran’s interests.

Rubio also said Iran had sent signals suggesting it may be interested in talks with the United States, though he did not provide details about the reported communications.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, with a large share of global oil and energy shipments passing through the waterway.

The comments came as tensions between Washington and Tehran remained elevated following recent military exchanges and disputes over maritime security in the Gulf region.

Iranian officials have not immediately responded to Rubio’s remarks, according to the information available at the time of publication.

The Strait of Hormuz has long been a focal point in regional tensions because of its importance to global energy markets. Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the waterway could affect oil supplies, increase prices and create wider economic concerns.

The United States and Iran have faced decades of disputes over Tehran’s nuclear programme, sanctions, regional influence and military activities, with diplomatic efforts repeatedly interrupted by periods of escalation.

The post Rubio Says Iran Seeking to Use Strait of Hormuz as Leverage Against World appeared first on Khaama Press.

Spain defeated defending champions Argentina after extra time in the 2026 World Cup final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal to secure Spain’s second title.

Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, securing their second World Cup title and ending Lionel Messi’s hopes of retaining the trophy, according to match details provided by the tournament report.

The final, played at the New York-New Jersey Stadium in the United States, remained goalless after 90 minutes as both teams adopted cautious tactical approaches. Spain controlled possession through their trademark passing game, while Argentina focused on defensive organisation and quick counterattacks.

Spain dominated much of the match but struggled to break through Argentina’s defensive line, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez making several important saves to keep the defending champions in contention.

The first half ended without goals, with Spain enjoying greater control of possession but creating limited clear opportunities. Argentina, led by Messi, struggled to register significant attacking threats against Spain’s organised defence.

After the restart, Spain increased pressure through young forward Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Nico Williams, while Argentina relied on Messi and its experienced players to find a breakthrough.

The match remained level throughout regular time, forcing the final into extra time.

Argentina’s situation became more difficult late in the match after Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card in stoppage time, leaving his team with 10 players.

Spain finally broke the deadlock in the second half of extra time. In the 106th minute, Nico Williams kept alive a cross from Pedro Porro before Ferran Torres fired the ball into the net to give Spain the lead.

Argentina pushed forward in search of an equaliser, with Messi attempting to create chances in the closing minutes, but Spain’s defence held firm to secure victory.

The triumph marks Spain’s second World Cup championship, following their first title in 2010. The victory also continues the success of a new generation of Spanish players built around possession football, technical ability and youth talent.

For Argentina, the defeat ended hopes of becoming back-to-back world champions after Messi guided the team to victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Messi, who has suggested the 2026 tournament could be his final World Cup appearance, left the field after another historic international campaign that saw him lead Argentina deep into the competition once again.

Spain’s Rodri was reported to have received the tournament’s Best Player award, while Unai Simón was named the best goalkeeper and Kylian Mbappé finished as the leading scorer.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup was the first edition featuring 48 teams and was jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The knockout stages were played in the United States.

The final brought together two of football’s most successful national teams, with Argentina seeking to defend its title and Spain attempting to add another major trophy to its golden generation.

The post Spain Stun Argentina in World Cup Final, End Messi’s Dream and Lift 2026 Trophy appeared first on Khaama Press.

At least 10 people were injured, including the suspected shooter, after gunfire erupted in a crowded area of Tucson, Arizona, police said.

At least 10 people were injured in a shooting in Tucson, Arizona, early Sunday, including the suspected gunman who was wounded after an encounter with police, authorities said.

The Tucson Police Department said officers responded at about 2 a.m. local time after reports of gunfire in a busy area near a downtown shopping center where a large number of people were present.

Police said officers arrived at the scene and encountered the suspect, who allegedly failed to comply with commands. One officer then fired at the individual, who was later taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Authorities said nine other people had already been shot before police arrived. All of those injured were adults, and no officers were reported wounded.

Police have not released the identity of the suspect or determined a possible motive for the shooting.

A local news outlet, citing police sources, reported that the violence may have followed a confrontation between two groups who were known to each other. The report said some people not involved in the dispute were also injured.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not announced any arrests or additional details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, hundreds of mass shooting incidents have been recorded in the United States this year. The organization defines a mass shooting as an incident in which at least four people are injured or killed, excluding the shooter.

The Gun Violence Archive tracks gun violence incidents using police reports, media reports and other publicly available information.

Gun violence remains a major public safety issue in the United States, with mass shootings occurring regularly across the country. Law enforcement agencies often cite disputes, criminal conflicts and personal grievances among common factors in many shooting incidents, although motives vary widely between cases.

The post 10 Injured, Including Suspect, in U.S. Shooting in Arizona appeared first on Khaama Press.

A reported marriage between a 17-year-old Afghan girl and a Chinese citizen in Kandahar has sparked public discussion after videos circulated online.

A reported marriage between a 17-year-old girl from Afghanistan’s southern Kandahar province and a Chinese citizen has drawn public attention after videos from the ceremony circulated on social media.

Local sources said the wedding took place about a month ago at the “Hazaar-o-Yak Shab” wedding hall in Kandahar city. The sources alleged that the girl was married in exchange for 1.5 million Afghanis.

The girl’s father, identified by sources as Noor Ahmad, is reportedly from Shorabak district of Kandahar and works as a street vendor in the provincial capital.

The Chinese citizen, who reportedly goes by the name Hamad, had converted to Islam several years ago, according to local reports.

Sources also claimed that his family is involved in trade between Afghanistan and China, including the export of Afghan saffron and dried fruit and the import of vehicle tyres and spare parts.

They said financial difficulties faced by the girl’s family were among the factors linked to the reported marriage. However, details about the circumstances of the marriage, including whether the girl gave free consent, could not be independently confirmed.

The circulation of wedding videos prompted reactions from social media users and some local Taliban figures, with critics calling for greater attention to reported marriages involving Afghan girls and foreign nationals.

The reported case comes amid growing concerns over child and forced marriages in Afghanistan, where humanitarian organizations have warned that economic hardship, restrictions on women’s education and limited opportunities for girls have increased vulnerabilities.

Since the Taliban banned girls from attending secondary schools in 2021 and later restricted women from university education, aid agencies have reported rising concerns that poverty, social pressure and lack of access to education are contributing factors in early and forced marriages. In Herat province, local officials and humanitarian groups have previously raised concerns about families marrying off young girls due to financial difficulties and worsening living conditions.

The post Afghanistan’s Kandahar Father Marries 17-Year-Old Daughter to Chinese Man appeared first on Khaama Press.

The U.S. military said it completed a ninth consecutive night of strikes on Iranian targets, hitting military facilities as regional tensions remained high.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Monday that U.S. forces completed the ninth consecutive night of strikes against military targets in Iran as part of ongoing operations in the region.

In a statement, CENTCOM said the latest strikes targeted Iranian military command facilities, air defence systems, coastal surveillance sites, naval capabilities, missile and drone launch locations, and communication networks.

The U.S. military command said the operations were intended to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and civilian mariners operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important maritime route.

CENTCOM did not disclose the number of strikes carried out, the locations of the targets, or any information on casualties or damage caused by the operations.

The command said U.S. forces remain on heightened alert and are prepared to conduct additional missions if required. The latest operation comes amid continued tensions between Washington and Tehran, with both sides exchanging accusations over military actions and threats in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, carrying a significant share of global oil and gas shipments. Any prolonged disruption or military escalation there could affect international energy markets and maritime trade.

Iranian authorities had not issued an immediate response to the latest CENTCOM statement at the time of publication.

The United States and Iran have experienced rising tensions following a series of military exchanges and disputes over regional security, maritime activity and Iran’s military capabilities.

The Strait of Hormuz has remained a major focus of international concern because of its importance to global energy supplies. Meanwhile, it has been warned that continued military escalation in the area could increase risks for commercial shipping and further destabilize the wider Middle East.

The post U.S. Military Says It Completed Ninth Night of Strikes on Iran Targets appeared first on Khaama Press.

The European Union highlighted maternal healthcare support in Afghanistan, warning the country remains among those with the world’s highest maternal mortality rates.

The European Union has highlighted ongoing efforts to improve maternal and newborn healthcare in Afghanistan, saying the country continues to face one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates.

In a post on X on Sunday, the EU said its representatives, together with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), visited a midwife-led maternity care center in Logar province.

The EU said the facility, supported financially by the bloc, provides maternal and newborn healthcare services through trained midwives, including support for safe childbirth and essential care before and after delivery.

The bloc said access to skilled healthcare workers, prenatal services, safe delivery facilities and postnatal care remains critical to preventing avoidable deaths among Afghan mothers and newborns.

Afghanistan continues to face major challenges in maternal and child health due to decades of conflict, economic hardship, shortages of medical professionals and limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in remote and rural areas.

International health agencies have repeatedly warned that disruptions to healthcare funding and reduced humanitarian support could further affect essential services for women and children across the country.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNFPA have called for sustained investment in maternal and reproductive healthcare, emphasizing the importance of trained birth attendants, emergency obstetric services and access to basic medical care.

The European Union remains one of Afghanistan’s key humanitarian donors, supporting healthcare programs that include maternal health services, reproductive healthcare and training for medical workers.

Afghanistan has historically recorded one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates, with many deaths linked to preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Health organizations say improved access to skilled birth attendants, emergency care and timely medical assistance can significantly reduce maternal and newborn deaths.

The country’s healthcare system has faced increasing pressure since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, as international development funding declined and humanitarian needs expanded. Aid agencies have warned that continued financial constraints could threaten access to life-saving healthcare services, especially for women and children.

The post EU Warns Afghanistan Still Faces One of World’s Highest Maternal Mortality Rates appeared first on Khaama Press.

Pakistan’s security forces targeted Taliban positions with artillery fire after an attack on Pakistani border posts, Pakistani security sources said, according to a report by Dawn newspaper published on Sunday.

Dawn reported that Taliban fighters attacked Pakistani border posts using light and heavy weapons, but did not identify the exact location of the clashes or provide details on possible casualties.

According to the report, Pakistani forces responded with artillery strikes against Taliban positions across the border. Pakistani security officials said the fighters later withdrew from their positions, though the claim could not be independently verified.

The reported exchange comes amid continued tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities over border security and accusations related to armed groups operating along the frontier.

Islamabad has repeatedly accused the Taliban authorities of failing to prevent Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants from using Afghanistan territory to plan and carry out attacks inside Pakistan. Taliban officials have rejected the allegations and said they do not allow Afghanistan soil to be used against other countries.

The two sides have experienced several armed confrontations along their shared border since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in August 2021. Previous disputes have involved border fencing, military installations, and the movement of people and armed groups across the frontier.

No separate public statement from Pakistan’s government or Kabul officials regarding the reported incident was available at the time of publication.

The post Pakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Rise After Reported Clash Between Forces appeared first on Khaama Press.

Salman Khan responded with humour to online speculation about his health after a recent public appearance prompted concern among fans on social media.

Bollywood actor Salman Khan has responded light-heartedly to online speculation about his health after videos from a recent public appearance triggered concern among fans over his physical appearance.

The speculation followed Khan’s visit to the inauguration of the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) Data Collection and Verification Support Centre in Mumbai, where he also handed over house keys to beneficiaries under a housing initiative. Videos and photographs from the event quickly spread across social media, with some users commenting that the 60-year-old actor appeared slimmer and more fatigued than usual.

Without directly addressing the rumours, Khan appeared to respond through a post on Instagram, where he shared a series of photographs accompanied by the caption, “Aap logon ki tabiyat kaisi hai?” (“How is everyone’s health?”). The post was widely interpreted by fans as a humorous reference to the online discussion surrounding his appearance.

The actor has not publicly commented on reports about his health, and neither he nor his representatives have issued any statement indicating that he is experiencing medical problems.

Fans reacted positively to Khan’s post, with thousands leaving supportive comments and praising his sense of humour. Television actor Mahhi Vij was among those responding, posting laughing emojis in the comments section.

Health speculation surrounding celebrities frequently gains momentum on social media following public appearances, particularly when photographs or short video clips circulate without broader context. In Khan’s case, the viral discussion prompted widespread debate among fans before his Instagram post appeared to ease concerns.

Professionally, Khan remains active in the film industry. Earlier this month, he revealed the first look of his upcoming film, Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, sharing promotional images showing him in a muscular physique. The film is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced under the Salman Khan Films banner. Actress Chitrangada Singh also stars in the project, although the producers have not yet announced a release date.

Khan was most recently seen in a cameo role in Raja Shivaji and is expected to return to the big screen in Maatrubhumi, which is currently his next major release.

While the recent viral videos prompted renewed public interest in the actor’s wellbeing, there is no official evidence to suggest Salman Khan is facing any health issues. His latest social media post appears to have reassured many fans while putting the online speculation into perspective.

The post Salman Khan’s Latest Appearance Leaves Fans Worried About His Health appeared first on Khaama Press.

Andy Burnham became Britain’s prime minister on Monday after Keir Starmer resigned, becoming the country’s seventh leader in the past decade.

Andy Burnham was sworn in as Britain’s prime minister on Monday after the resignation of Keir Starmer, becoming the country’s seventh prime minister in a decade and promising to tackle the cost-of-living crisis, improve public services and restore confidence in government.

Burnham, 56, formally took office after being confirmed as leader of the governing Labour Party last week. Widely known as the “King of the North” for his years as mayor of Greater Manchester, he was invited by King Charles III to form a government following Starmer’s resignation.

In his first remarks as prime minister, Burnham pledged to “rewire Britain”, saying his government would focus on easing pressure on households, improving public services and delivering economic reforms aimed at raising living standards. He described his administration as an opportunity to reshape British politics by shifting power away from Westminster and giving greater authority to regional governments.

Burnham succeeds fellow Labour politician Keir Starmer, who stepped down after mounting pressure within the governing party over weak poll ratings, policy reversals and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of domestic issues. His resignation triggered a Labour leadership contest in which Burnham emerged unopposed.

The new prime minister is expected to announce his cabinet in the coming days, with the appointment of a finance minister regarded as one of the government’s most closely watched decisions. British media have reported that senior Labour figures are being considered for key economic portfolios as Burnham seeks to reassure financial markets and demonstrate policy stability.

Among Burnham’s first policy moves is the suspension of a controversial digital identity programme introduced under the previous government. His administration is also expected to pursue reforms to public utilities, strengthen regional economic development and establish a cabinet-level role focused on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

Burnham takes office as Britain faces slowing economic growth, pressure on public finances and persistent challenges in healthcare, housing and public services. His government will also inherit a complex international agenda, including relations with the United States, the European Union and NATO, alongside continuing geopolitical instability.

The post Burnham Becomes Britain’s Prime Minister After Starmer Resigns appeared first on Khaama Press.

Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday, beating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, closing the best attended World Cup in history and almost certainly ending Lionel Messi’s career on football’s biggest stage.

Substitute Ferran Torres scored the only goal in the 106th minute, converting Nico Williams’s pass with a first-time finish after Argentina had been reduced to 10 men. It was Spain’s second men’s world title, secured in the same manner as their first in 2010, by a single goal in extra time. Because Spain’s women are the reigning World Cup champions, the country now holds both senior world titles at once, a first in the competition’s history.

The pattern rarely changed. Spain controlled possession while Argentina failed to register a shot on target, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made 10 saves, a record for a men’s World Cup final, Fox Sports reported. Spain finished the tournament having conceded once in eight matches.

The decisive swing came in second-half stoppage time, when Enzo Fernández collected a second yellow card for a heavy challenge that sent defender Pau Cubarsí flipping to the ground. The dismissal removed one of the heroes of Argentina’s semi-final win over England and made Fernández the sixth player sent off in a World Cup final. Torres later had a second goal ruled out for offside as Spain closed out the win.

Victory rewarded five weeks of collective control. Luis de la Fuente’s European champions eliminated Portugal, Belgium and France, beaten 2-0 in the semi-final, and twice won knockout ties through late goals from substitute Mikel Merino, NBC News noted. The bench decided the final too, and Merino even blocked a late Messi effort with his face to preserve the lead, according to ESPN’s match coverage.

Argentina’s run had been built on late resilience. The holders had not led at the 90-minute mark in any of their four knockout victories, NPR noted, twice escaping with stoppage-time winners and twice prevailing in extra time. Against Spain’s control that formula finally failed, and the champions finished the night with five bookings and a red card.

For Messi, 39, the ending was cruel. He scored eight goals, overtook Miroslav Klose during the group stage to become the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer and became the first player to score in six successive knockout games. Yet the record slipped away on the eve of the final, when Kylian Mbappé struck twice in France’s third-place defeat to England to reach 22 career World Cup goals against Messi’s 21. Mbappé’s 10 goals secured the Golden Boot and made him the first player since Gerd Müller in 1970 to score more than eight at a single men’s World Cup. De la Fuente had called Messi “one of a kind” in his pre-final press conference, while coach Lionel Scaloni told reporters he could not say whether his captain will now retire from international duty.

The tournament also closed Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup story. The 41-year-old, the first player to score at six different World Cups, said before Portugal’s last-16 tie with Spain that the tournament would be his last, Sky Sports reported, and Merino’s stoppage-time winner in Arlington, Texas confirmed it. “It was my last World Cup,” a tearful Ronaldo told reporters afterwards, while leaving his wider international future undecided.

A younger generation filled the space. Lamine Yamal, 19, faced Messi competitively for the first time in the final. Norway’s Erling Haaland finished with seven goals after two late strikes beat Brazil 2-1 in the round of 16, condemning the five-time champions to their earliest exit since 1990 and carrying Norway, at their first finals in 28 years, into a maiden quarter-final. England needed a Jude Bellingham brace and extra time to end that run 2-1.

Politics intruded as well. American forward Folarin Balogun was sent off in a round-of-32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, and US President Donald Trump telephoned FIFA president Gianni Infantino about the case, a call both men later confirmed. FIFA’s disciplinary committee suspended enforcement of the automatic one-match ban for a probationary year, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code, clearing Balogun to face BSpain Beat Argentina 1-0 in Extra Time to Win 2026 World Cup and Deny Messi a Farewell Titleelgium. According to the Associated Press, it appeared to be the first World Cup red card since 1962 not to produce a suspension. The decision drew accusations that FIFA had bent its rules, Al Jazeera reported, while Infantino said independent judicial bodies handled the case and denied interfering. Belgium won the tie regardless before losing 2-1 to Spain in the quarter-finals.

Commercially, the expanded 48-team event set new marks. The tournament surpassed the 1994 attendance record of about 3.59 million during the group stage, and FIFA projected a cumulative audience above six billion across television and streaming. The United States-Belgium match drew 30 million viewers on Fox, the most watched soccer telecast in American television history, Deadline reported. Forbes reported that the tournament itself generated roughly 8.9 billion dollars through broadcasting, sponsorship, ticketing and hospitality, up nearly 20 per cent on 2022, with advertisers committing about 10.5 billion dollars worldwide, while FIFA targets around 13 billion dollars in revenue for its 2023-2026 cycle, a figure raised twice from 11 billion. A joint FIFA and World Trade Organization study projected a 40.9 billion dollar contribution to global GDP, alongside roughly 824,000 full-time jobs and 13.9 billion dollars in direct visitor spending, with the largest national share, an estimated 17.2 billion dollars, flowing to the American economy.

The gains were unevenly felt. The cheapest resale tickets for the final approached 10,000 dollars, NPR reported, and Canada’s Parliamentary Budget Officer put public support for hosting at more than one billion Canadian dollars. Sport finance researcher Michael Edwards of North Carolina State University cautioned that impact studies often understate public costs, saying history gives “little reason to expect substantial, lasting economic gains for host cities.”

Spain’s triumph required no such caveats. Across eight matches they conceded one goal, absorbed the final World Cup runs of Messi and Ronaldo and won through the depth and discipline that now define international football’s new era.

The post Spain Beat Argentina 1-0 in Extra Time to Win 2026 World Cup and Deny Messi a Farewell Title appeared first on Khaama Press.

The U.S. military said it struck Iranian Revolutionary Guard personnel linked to a deadly attack in Jordan as regional hostilities intensified further.

The U.S. military said it carried out a new wave of strikes against Iranian military targets, including personnel from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) it said were involved in a deadly attack on American forces in Jordan, as military exchanges between Washington and Tehran continued to intensify.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday that American forces struck a range of Iranian military facilities, including coastal surveillance sites, air defense systems, missile and drone storage facilities, naval assets and military logistics infrastructure.

CENTCOM said the operation also targeted IRGC personnel whom it accused of planning or supporting the July 17 attack on U.S. forces in Jordan. U.S. officials previously said the attack killed at least two American service members and left another missing. Iran has not publicly responded to the allegation that its personnel were directly involved.

The latest strikes mark another escalation in the confrontation between the United States and Iran, which has expanded beyond direct military exchanges to include attacks on strategic infrastructure across the region.

Separately, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization said several missiles struck the Darkhovin nuclear power plant, currently under construction in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, early Sunday. Iranian authorities condemned the strike but did not identify who launched the missiles or provide details on casualties or the extent of the damage.

Darkhovin is one of Iran’s principal civilian nuclear energy projects, with construction beginning in 2022 as part of Tehran’s plans to expand domestic electricity generation. Iranian officials maintain that the country’s nuclear program is exclusively for peaceful purposes.

The reported strike came after U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains the primary objective of U.S. policy. Trump has repeatedly defended recent military operations, saying they are intended to reduce Iran’s military capabilities and prevent further threats to U.S. forces and regional allies.

Iran, meanwhile, has accused the United States of targeting civilian nuclear infrastructure and violating international law, while insisting its nuclear activities remain peaceful. Tehran has previously reported damage to several nuclear-related facilities during the current conflict.

The continuing exchange of strikes has heightened international concern over the possibility of a broader regional war involving strategic military, energy and nuclear facilities. The United Nations and several governments have urged restraint, warning that further escalation could threaten regional stability, international shipping routes and global energy markets.

The post U.S. Military Says It Targeted IRGC Personnel After Deadly Jordan Attack appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran’s decision to suspend its agreement with Washington “doesn’t matter,” reaffirming that preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains the central objective of U.S. policy.

According to Al Jazeera, Trump made the remarks on Sunday while again emphasizing that recent U.S. military operations were intended to ensure Iran could not develop nuclear weapons.

His comments came after Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi announced that Tehran had suspended the agreement, accusing the United States of failing to uphold its commitments. Iranian officials argue that Washington’s recent military actions and broader policies undermined the understanding reached between the two countries.

The United States has not publicly responded in detail to Iran’s announcement, but Trump indicated that the status of the agreement would not alter Washington’s strategic objectives. He reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains the administration’s overriding priority.

The agreement, reached following Pakistan-mediated diplomatic efforts, was intended to help reduce hostilities and create conditions for broader negotiations after weeks of military confrontation between the two countries. However, implementation has faced significant challenges, with both Tehran and Washington accusing each other of violating its terms.

Since the understanding was announced, the United States and Iran have continued to exchange military strikes and sharp political rhetoric, raising doubts about the durability of the arrangement and prospects for renewed diplomacy.

The latest exchange highlights the continuing divisions between Washington and Tehran over security, nuclear policy and the future of bilateral engagement. While both sides have expressed support in principle for reducing tensions, they remain deeply divided over responsibility for recent developments and the conditions required for meaningful negotiations to resume.

Meanwhile, the suspension of the agreement underscores the fragile state of U.S.-Iran relations and reflects the broader difficulty of sustaining diplomatic progress amid ongoing military escalation and mutual distrust.

The post Trump Says Iran’s Exit From Interim Deal ‘Doesn’t Matter’ appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization said several missiles struck the Darkhovin nuclear power plant under construction in the southwestern province of Khuzestan early Sunday, condemning the attack as the latest assault on the country’s nuclear infrastructure.

According to Iranian state media, cited by Al Jazeera, the attack occurred at approximately 3:39 a.m. local time. Iranian authorities did not identify who launched the missiles and provided no immediate information on casualties or the extent of the damage.

The Atomic Energy Organization condemned the strike but did not say whether construction at the facility had been disrupted or whether the site had sustained significant structural damage.

Darkhovin is one of Iran’s major civilian nuclear energy projects. Construction of the power plant began in 2022 and is intended to expand the country’s domestic electricity generation capacity. Iranian officials have repeatedly said the project is designed exclusively for peaceful purposes under the country’s civilian nuclear program.

The reported strike comes amid a sharp escalation in military tensions between Iran and the United States, following days of reciprocal missile, drone and air strikes across the region. Iranian officials have previously accused the United States and its allies of targeting nuclear and military infrastructure, while Washington has said its operations are aimed at degrading Iran’s military capabilities and preventing it from developing a nuclear weapon.

U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a central objective of U.S. policy. Iran, however, continues to insist that its nuclear program is intended solely for civilian and peaceful purposes.

The attack also follows earlier reports of strikes on other Iranian nuclear facilities during recent hostilities, raising renewed international concern over the security of sensitive nuclear sites and the risk of further escalation in the region. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly warned that military operations targeting nuclear installations could pose serious safety and environmental risks.

The post U.S. Struck Darkhovin Nuclear Plant Under Construction, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization Says appeared first on Khaama Press.

Argentina and Spain will contest the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday in a showdown between the defending world champions and the reigning European champions, while also setting up the first senior meeting between Lionel Messi and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

The final has attracted worldwide attention not only because of the battle for football’s biggest prize, but also because of a remarkable connection between the two players that dates back nearly two decades.

In December 2007, during a charity calendar project organized by UNICEF and the FC Barcelona Foundation, a 20-year-old Messi posed for photographs while holding and bathing five-month-old Lamine Yamal after the infant’s family was selected through a public raffle. The images resurfaced years later and have again gone viral ahead of Sunday’s final, symbolizing an unlikely link between one of football’s greatest players and one of its brightest emerging talents.

Yamal has said he only learned about the photographs years later when his father showed them to him. “Being compared to the best player in history is a great honour, but nobody can be Lionel Messi,” the 19-year-old has said.

Messi has not publicly commented on the 2007 photo session but has previously praised Yamal’s performances, describing him as one of the game’s most promising young talents.

Spain reached the final after defeating France, combining disciplined defending with the possession-based football that has defined coach Luis de la Fuente’s side throughout the tournament. The Spanish champions have conceded only one goal in seven matches while relying on high pressing, technical midfield play and the creativity of Yamal in attack.

Yamal has been one of Spain’s standout performers during the competition, continuing the rapid rise that began at Barcelona, where he has already established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting young players.

Argentina booked their place in the final after defeating England and are seeking to retain the World Cup they won in Qatar in 2022. Lionel Scaloni’s side has again relied on defensive organization, experience and decisive late performances, with Messi continuing to play a central role by contributing goals, assists and leadership throughout the tournament.

The 39-year-old captain is attempting to guide Argentina to a fourth FIFA World Cup title, further adding to a career widely regarded among the greatest in football history.

Spain’s midfield will again be anchored by Rodri, whose control of possession and defensive discipline have been central to his team’s success. The Manchester City midfielder has provided the platform for Spain’s attacking players while helping maintain one of the tournament’s strongest defensive records.

The two nations have met 14 times, with each side winning six matches and two ending in draws. Their only previous FIFA World Cup meeting came during the 1966 group stage, when Argentina defeated Spain 2-1. Their most recent encounter was Spain’s 6-1 victory in a friendly ahead of the 2018 World Cup.

Beyond the contest for the trophy, Sunday’s final will bring together two generations of football. Messi, one of the sport’s defining figures over the past two decades, will share the game’s biggest stage with Yamal, whose rapid emergence has made him one of football’s most closely watched young stars. Together, they embody both the legacy of the modern era and the promise of the next.

The post Messi, Yamal Set for 2026 World Cup Final Showdown appeared first on Khaama Press.

Pakistan and Kuwait are holding preliminary talks on a defense pact linked to energy and investment cooperation, Reuters reported, citing informed sources.

Pakistan and Kuwait are holding preliminary discussions on expanding defense cooperation in exchange for closer collaboration in the energy and investment sectors, Reuters reported on Saturday, citing several sources familiar with the negotiations.

According to the report, the discussions remain at an early stage, and no agreement has been finalized. Officials from either country have not publicly commented on the reported negotiations.

Reuters said the proposed arrangement would seek to deepen bilateral ties by combining security cooperation with broader economic partnerships, particularly in energy and investment. The report noted that details of the discussions remain limited and that the outcome of the talks is uncertain.

The negotiations come against the backdrop of heightened tensions across the Middle East, where recent military exchanges between the United States and Iran have increased regional security concerns. Reuters reported that the evolving security environment could complicate the talks, as Gulf states continue to reassess their defense partnerships and regional security strategies.

The report also noted that Pakistan signed a defense cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia last year under which an attack on the kingdom would be regarded as an attack on Pakistan. That agreement reflected the close security relationship between Islamabad and Riyadh and underscored Pakistan’s longstanding military ties with Gulf countries.

According to Reuters, any future defense arrangement between Pakistan and Kuwait could have broader regional implications, including for Islamabad’s diplomatic position in the Gulf. Pakistan has sought to maintain balanced relations with both Gulf Arab states and Iran while also presenting itself as a potential mediator during periods of regional tension.

Islamabad has repeatedly said it supports dialogue and diplomacy to resolve disputes in the Middle East and has called on all parties to avoid actions that could further destabilize the region. Pakistan has maintained close economic and security ties with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members while also preserving political relations with neighboring Iran.

The post Pakistan, Kuwait Hold Talks on Expanded Defense Pact appeared first on Khaama Press.

UNAMA marked Nelson Mandela International Day by honoring his legacy of justice, reconciliation and human dignity while reaffirming international human rights principles.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) marked Nelson Mandela International Day on Saturday by paying tribute to the late South African leader’s enduring legacy of justice, peace and human dignity, describing his life as a lasting source of inspiration for people around the world.

In a statement, UNAMA said Mandela demonstrated extraordinary courage, compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice throughout his life, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire efforts to promote equality, reconciliation and respect for fundamental human rights.

The mission noted that after spending 27 years in prison under South Africa’s apartheid regime, Mandela emerged not with a message of revenge but with one of forgiveness, dialogue and national reconciliation. UNAMA said his leadership showed that peace, humanity and mutual understanding can prevail over hatred, discrimination and division.

“Nelson Mandela inspired generations through his courage, compassion and unwavering commitment to justice,” UNAMA said, adding that his values remain relevant in addressing today’s global challenges.

The mission also highlighted the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, commonly known as the Nelson Mandela Rules, describing them as a cornerstone of international standards governing the treatment of people deprived of their liberty. UNAMA said the rules reaffirm that every person, regardless of their circumstances, must be treated with dignity and have their fundamental rights respected.

Observed annually on July 18, Nelson Mandela International Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009 to recognize Mandela’s lifelong dedication to democracy, peace, equality and human rights. The day also encourages people around the world to devote time to community service and initiatives that promote social justice and solidarity.

UNAMA’s tribute comes as the United Nations continues to emphasize the importance of protecting human rights, promoting peaceful dialogue and strengthening respect for human dignity in Afghanistan and around the world. The mission has repeatedly called for inclusive governance, equal rights and greater protection of vulnerable communities, including women, children and minorities.

Mandela, who became South Africa’s first democratically elected president in 1994, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most influential advocates for peace, reconciliation and human rights. His legacy continues to shape international efforts to promote justice, equality and the peaceful resolution of conflict.

The post UNAMA Marks Mandela Day, Highlights Justice, Reconciliation and Human Rights appeared first on Khaama Press.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived in Washington for talks with President Donald Trump on bilateral ties, regional security and Lebanon’s stability.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived in Washington on Saturday for an official visit that will include talks with U.S. President Donald Trump and other senior American officials on bilateral relations, regional security and efforts to support stability in Lebanon.

The Lebanese presidency said Aoun is visiting the United States at Trump’s invitation. During his stay, he is also scheduled to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials to discuss cooperation between Beirut and Washington, as well as recent developments across the Middle East.

According to the Lebanese presidency, the discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing economic and security cooperation, and addressing regional issues affecting Lebanon. A key part of the agenda is expected to include diplomatic efforts to preserve stability along the Lebanon-Israel border following months of heightened tensions.

The visit comes as Lebanon continues to face a prolonged political and economic crisis while seeking greater international support for institutional reforms and economic recovery. U.S. officials have repeatedly emphasized their backing for Lebanon’s armed forces and state institutions, describing them as essential to maintaining the country’s sovereignty and long-term stability.

Washington has also supported diplomatic initiatives aimed at preventing renewed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah after months of cross-border hostilities. The United States has played a central role in mediation efforts designed to reinforce ceasefire arrangements and reduce the risk of wider regional escalation.

One of the most sensitive issues expected to feature in the discussions is the future of Hezbollah’s armed wing. The United States and Israel have consistently called for all weapons in Lebanon to be placed under the authority of the Lebanese state, arguing that the government should exercise exclusive control over the use of force. Hezbollah, however, has repeatedly rejected calls to disarm, maintaining that its military capabilities are necessary to confront Israeli threats.

The meetings also take place against the backdrop of continuing instability across the Middle East, where tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States have raised concerns about the risk of a broader regional conflict. Lebanon remains particularly vulnerable to any escalation because of Hezbollah’s close ties with Iran and its longstanding confrontation with Israel.

The post Lebanese President Aoun Arrives in Washington for Talks With Trump appeared first on Khaama Press.

Europol said it has dismantled a suspected human smuggling network that transported Afghan migrants from Türkiye through the Balkans to Western Europe, following a joint operation with Bulgarian and Serbian authorities that resulted in the arrest of five suspects, including an alleged ringleader and two police officers.

In a statement issued on Friday, Europol said the criminal network had been operating since 2025, organizing the movement of Afghan migrants from Türkiye into Bulgaria before facilitating their transit through Serbia and onward to Western European countries. The operation was carried out in coordination with law enforcement authorities in Bulgaria and Serbia as part of broader efforts to combat organized migrant smuggling.

According to Europol, investigators arrested five suspects, including the network’s alleged leader and two serving police officers accused of assisting the smuggling operation. Authorities are investigating the officers’ suspected role in facilitating the movement of migrants across the route.

During coordinated searches, investigators seized three vehicles allegedly used to transport migrants, firearms, ammunition, a radio communication device, multiple mobile phones, approximately €5,700 in cash and 40,000 Serbian dinars, which authorities believe are linked to the criminal operation.

Europol said migrants reportedly paid around €1,000 to be transported from the Bulgarian border into Serbia, followed by an additional €300 for transportation toward the Serbia-Poland border. Most payments were allegedly made through the hawala informal money transfer system, which is widely used for cross-border financial transactions outside the formal banking sector.

The agency described migrant smuggling as one of the European Union’s most significant organized crime threats, noting that criminal groups continue to exploit vulnerable migrants seeking to reach Europe through irregular routes. Europol said close cooperation between national police forces and international agencies remains essential to identifying and dismantling transnational smuggling networks.

The Balkans remain one of the main transit corridors for migrants and asylum seekers attempting to reach the European Union. Afghan nationals have continued to make up a significant proportion of people using the route following Afghanistan’s political and economic upheaval since 2021.

European authorities have intensified efforts in recent years to disrupt human trafficking and migrant smuggling operations, warning that organized criminal networks often expose migrants to dangerous journeys, violence and exploitation while generating substantial illicit profits through cross-border trafficking.

The post Five Arrested Over Afghan Migrant Smuggling Across Bulgaria-Serbia Border appeared first on Khaama Press.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said legal officials are reviewing the ICC warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of a possible U.N. visit.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said his administration is reviewing the legal implications of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of his possible visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly.

Speaking on a New York Times podcast, Mamdani said he believes Netanyahu “belongs in The Hague” and confirmed that the city’s legal department is examining the ICC warrant to determine what legal authority, if any, New York City would have if the Israeli leader enters the city.

“The legal team is reviewing the matter, and we will act in accordance with the law,” Mamdani said, adding that no final decision has been made.

The mayor’s comments follow earlier statements in which he said Netanyahu should be arrested if he travels to New York after the ICC issued a warrant accusing the Israeli prime minister of war crimes and crimes against humanity in connection with the conflict in Gaza. Mamdani clarified that the issue remains under legal review rather than representing an official decision by the city.

Israeli officials strongly criticized the remarks. Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, dismissed the comments as “a political stunt” and accused Mamdani of seeking publicity instead of focusing on governing New York City.

Netanyahu has previously accused Mamdani of supporting Hamas, an allegation the mayor has repeatedly denied.

The comments come ahead of the annual U.N. General Assembly in September, when heads of state and government from around the world are expected to travel to New York. Netanyahu has attended previous General Assembly sessions, although it remains unclear whether he will participate this year.

The ICC issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the Gaza conflict. Israel has rejected the allegations, disputes the ICC’s jurisdiction over the case, and has argued that the court lacks legal authority to prosecute Israeli officials.

The United States is not a party to the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC, and does not recognize the court’s jurisdiction over its nationals or those of allied countries. While the ICC warrant has legal implications for member states, its applicability within the United States remains legally and politically contested.

Mamdani’s remarks have renewed debate over how U.S. authorities might respond if an ICC-indicted foreign leader visits the country, particularly during high-profile international gatherings such as the U.N. General Assembly.

The post New York Mayor Mamdani Reviewing Possible Netanyahu Arrest if He Visits City appeared first on Khaama Press.

Transit trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan fell 93% in fiscal 2026 as Kabul expanded trade routes through Iran and Central Asia.

Transit trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan has fallen by approximately 93% in Pakistan’s 2026 fiscal year as Afghanistan increasingly shifted imports and exports through Iran and Central Asia, according to Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper, citing the World Bank’s Afghanistan Economic Monitor and economic analysts.

The report said Afghanistan-bound transit cargo moving through Pakistan dropped to 11,592 containers in fiscal 2026, down from nearly 89,000 containers in fiscal 2021, before the Taliban returned to power.

Although Pakistan closed key crossings along the Durand Line in October 2025, citing security concerns, analysts said the decline in transit trade had begun earlier as the Taliban administration pursued a strategy to reduce Afghanistan’s dependence on Pakistani ports by expanding trade corridors through Iran and Central Asia.

Transit volumes initially increased following the Taliban’s return to power, reaching 102,886 containers worth $6.7 billion in fiscal 2023. However, shipments declined steadily thereafter, falling to 54,000 containers in fiscal 2024, 42,959 in fiscal 2025 and 11,592 in fiscal 2026, according to the report.

The World Bank’s Afghanistan Economic Monitor said Afghanistan’s imports rose 15% in fiscal 2025 to $13.2 billion, despite changing trade patterns. Iran emerged as Afghanistan’s largest import partner, accounting for 31.3% of total imports, while direct and transit routes through Iran handled 48.6% of the country’s total imports.

The report also highlighted a sharp decline in Afghanistan’s reverse transit trade through Pakistan, under which Afghan exports are transported via Pakistani territory. The value of those exports reportedly dropped from more than $454 million in fiscal 2025 to just $7 million in fiscal 2026.

Economists cited by Dawn said the diversification of trade routes has reduced Afghanistan’s dependence on Pakistan but has also increased transport and logistics costs because of longer overland routes through Iran and neighboring Central Asian countries. Higher transportation costs have contributed to rising prices for imported food, medicines and other essential goods, particularly in eastern and southern Afghanistan.

The contraction in transit trade has also affected Pakistan’s transport and logistics sector, reducing business for trucking companies, customs brokers, freight operators and border-related services that rely on cross-border commerce.

The post Pakistan-Afghanistan Transit Trade Drops 93% appeared first on Khaama Press.

Pakistani police have detained 121 Afghan nationals during an immigration enforcement operation in the eastern city of Lahore, releasing some after verifying their legal residency documents while transferring others for further legal action, according to Pakistani media reports.

Authorities said 28 Afghan nationals were released after officials confirmed they possessed valid residency documents. The remaining 93 people, who allegedly lacked legal permission to remain in Pakistan, were transferred to a holding center in Lahore pending further immigration proceedings.

The operation is part of Pakistan’s ongoing nationwide campaign against undocumented foreign nationals, which has led to the detention and deportation of hundreds of thousands of Afghans since late 2023. Islamabad has intensified immigration enforcement in recent months following the expiration of deadlines for undocumented Afghans and amid continued tensions with the Taliban administration over cross-border security.

Pakistani authorities have maintained that the campaign is aimed at enforcing immigration laws and improving national security. Officials have repeatedly said foreign nationals without valid visas or residency permits are subject to detention and deportation under Pakistani law.

The crackdown has drawn criticism from the United Nations, human rights organizations and refugee advocacy groups, which have urged Pakistan to ensure that returns comply with international legal obligations. Rights groups have raised concerns over reports of arbitrary detention, forced deportations and the treatment of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers during enforcement operations.

Afghanistan has experienced a sharp rise in returns from neighboring countries in recent months. The Taliban administration said 3,753 Afghans returned through multiple border crossings on Friday, although it did not specify how many had been deported from Pakistan, returned voluntarily or arrived from other neighboring countries.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UN agencies have warned that the continued return of large numbers of Afghans is placing additional pressure on humanitarian services in Afghanistan, where millions already face food insecurity, unemployment and limited access to healthcare and basic public services.

Pakistan hosts one of the world’s largest Afghan refugee populations. Many Afghans have lived in the country for decades after fleeing conflict and instability, while others arrived following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021.

The post Pakistan Detains 121 Afghans in Lahore Immigration Crackdown appeared first on Khaama Press.

Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis is worsening as severe international funding shortfalls force aid agencies to scale back food assistance, leaving millions of Afghans at greater risk of hunger, the United Nations and Human Rights Watch (HRW) warned.

The United Nations estimates that more than 17 million people in Afghanistan will face acute food insecurity this year, while about 22 million people require humanitarian assistance, including food, healthcare and protection services. Women, children, internally displaced people and returning refugees remain among the hardest hit.

The crisis has intensified as humanitarian funding continues to decline. By June, the U.N.’s 2026 Humanitarian Response Plan had received less than 20% of the funding required, forcing humanitarian organizations to reduce or suspend food distributions, healthcare programs and other lifesaving services.

Aid agencies say declining donor contributions—including significant reductions in U.S. humanitarian funding—have severely weakened relief operations at a time when needs continue to grow.

Fereshta Abbasi, Afghanistan researcher at Human Rights Watch, said deteriorating economic conditions are driving many families into extreme hardship. Drawing on interviews conducted across Afghanistan, she described parents unable to provide enough food for their children and households increasingly relying on neighbors for basic meals.

Human Rights Watch also warned that the return of more than five million Afghan migrants from Iran and Pakistan has placed additional pressure on communities already struggling with widespread poverty, prolonged drought, unemployment and overstretched public services.

The organization said restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women working for humanitarian organizations have further complicated aid delivery, particularly for female-headed households that often depend on women aid workers to access food, healthcare and other essential assistance.

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s largest humanitarian emergencies. The country continues to grapple with the combined effects of economic collapse, climate shocks, declining international assistance and restrictions that have weakened public services and humanitarian operations.

The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that without urgent new funding, millions more Afghans could lose access to lifesaving food assistance, healthcare and protection services, further deepening hunger and poverty across the country.

The post 17 Million Afghans Face Acute Food Insecurity, U.N. Warns appeared first on Khaama Press.

Nearly one million Afghans work directly or indirectly in the carpet industry, with exports topping 760,000 square meters this year, officials said.

Nearly one million people in Afghanistan are employed directly or indirectly in the country’s carpet industry, according to the Taliban’s Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, which says the sector remains one of the country’s largest sources of employment and export earnings.

In a statement posted on X on Saturday, the office said Afghanistan has exported more than 760,000 square meters of handwoven carpets so far this year, with Turkey, several European countries and Arab states among the main export destinations.

Officials said only a small share of carpets produced in Afghanistan is sold domestically, while most output is shipped to foreign markets. They added that Afghan carpets are increasingly being exported under Afghanistan’s own name and branding rather than being re-exported through third countries, although the figures and claims could not be independently verified.

The administration attributed the industry’s international reputation to the traditional craftsmanship, handmade production methods and distinctive designs of Afghan carpets, describing the sector as an important contributor to economic activity and foreign trade.

Carpet weaving is one of Afghanistan’s oldest traditional industries and remains a vital source of income for hundreds of thousands of households, particularly in the northern, western and central provinces. In addition to weavers, the industry supports employment in wool processing, dyeing, washing, packaging, transportation and export services.

Afghan handwoven carpets are internationally recognized for their craftsmanship, geometric patterns and high-quality wool. The industry has historically ranked among Afghanistan’s most valuable non-agricultural export sectors, generating foreign currency earnings and supporting rural livelihoods.

Despite its export potential, the carpet industry continues to face significant challenges. Producers and exporters have long cited transportation bottlenecks, limited access to international markets, banking restrictions, high shipping costs and broader economic difficulties as major obstacles to expanding exports.

International organizations have also noted that many Afghan carpet weavers work in low-income households, where access to finance, modern production facilities and global marketing opportunities remains limited. Industry representatives have argued that improving market access, trade logistics and financial services could help increase exports and create additional employment across the sector.

The post Nearly One Million Afghans Work in Carpet Industry: Report appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.S. President Donald Trump threatened higher tariffs on Canadian imports, blaming wildfire smoke for worsening air quality across large parts of America.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday threatened to raise tariffs on Canadian imports, accusing Canada of failing to manage its forests and arguing that wildfire smoke drifting into the United States has imposed significant environmental and economic costs on Americans.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said dense smoke from Canada’s ongoing wildfires had pushed air quality to unhealthy levels across several U.S. states. He described the recurring wildfire crisis as the result of what he called Canada’s “intentional negligence” and said the costs of the pollution should be added to existing tariffs on Canadian goods.

Trump said he intends to raise the issue with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, linking the cross-border environmental impact of the fires to broader trade relations between the two countries.

According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC), 937 wildfires were active across Canada as of Saturday, with the majority classified as out of control. Large fires continue to burn across several provinces, producing smoke that has spread into parts of the United States.

Canada rejected Trump’s criticism. Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski said Ottawa has invested approximately C$12 billion in wildfire prevention, forest resilience and emergency preparedness since 2020. She also emphasized the long-standing cooperation between Canadian and U.S. authorities in responding to cross-border wildfires and other natural disasters.

The smoke prompted air quality alerts across broad areas of the United States. Detroit recorded some of the world’s poorest air quality on Friday, while public health officials in Washington, D.C., Chicago and other cities advised residents, particularly children, older adults and people with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activity because of elevated pollution levels.

The deteriorating conditions have also raised concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey, where organizers and local authorities are monitoring air quality forecasts amid the possibility that wildfire smoke could continue affecting parts of the U.S. Northeast.

Scientists say climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of wildfires across North America by creating hotter, drier conditions that allow fires to spread more rapidly and burn for longer periods. Researchers have warned that cross-border smoke events are becoming more common as wildfire seasons grow longer and more severe.

The post Trump Threatens Higher Canada Tariffs Over Wildfire Smoke Polluting U.S. Cities appeared first on Khaama Press.

Venezuela’s earthquake death toll has surpassed 5,000, authorities said, as thousands remain injured or displaced nearly a month after the disaster.

The death toll from last month’s devastating earthquakes in Venezuela has risen to more than 5,000, authorities said on Friday, as emergency response teams continue relief operations and thousands of survivors remain without permanent shelter.

Jorge Rodríguez, president of Venezuela’s National Assembly, said in a post on X that 5,060 people have been confirmed dead following the twin earthquakes that struck the country on June 24. He said another 16,740 people were injured, according to the latest official figures.

Rodríguez said the government has provided humanitarian assistance to 128,342 affected families through emergency relief programmes that include temporary shelter, food, medical care and other essential support for communities devastated by the disaster.

Despite those efforts, officials said nearly 18,000 people remain homeless, underscoring the scale of the humanitarian challenge facing authorities as reconstruction work continues in the country’s hardest-hit areas.

The twin earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, triggered widespread destruction across several regions of Venezuela, damaging homes, hospitals, schools, roads and other critical infrastructure. Rescue teams and emergency workers have continued clearing debris, restoring public services and assisting displaced residents.

The disaster has placed additional pressure on Venezuela’s already strained public services and humanitarian response capacity. Authorities have continued assessing structural damage while coordinating relief operations in affected communities.

International humanitarian organizations have also monitored the situation closely, with aid agencies warning that prolonged displacement, damaged infrastructure and disrupted access to healthcare could increase humanitarian needs in the weeks ahead. Officials have continued appealing for support to accelerate recovery and reconstruction efforts.

The updated casualty figures make the earthquakes among the deadliest natural disasters to strike Venezuela in recent decades. Recovery operations remain ongoing as authorities work to restore essential services, rebuild damaged infrastructure and assist thousands of families still displaced by the disaster.

The post Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Rises Above 5,000 appeared first on Khaama Press.

Qatar has condemned a reported Iranian strike on Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, describing it as a violation of Iraq’s sovereignty and international law, while urging all parties to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue to prevent further escalation across the Middle East.

In a statement issued on Friday, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the reported attack represented a “flagrant violation” of the sovereignty of the Republic of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. The ministry said such actions undermine regional stability and called for respect for the territorial integrity and independence of all states in accordance with international law.

Qatar described the reported strike as unjustified and warned that continued military escalation risks further destabilizing an already volatile region. It stressed that disputes should be resolved through diplomacy rather than military action, emphasizing that dialogue remains the only sustainable path toward preserving regional and international peace and security.

The ministry reaffirmed Qatar’s full solidarity with Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government, expressing support for measures taken by authorities in Baghdad and Erbil to safeguard national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the security of civilians.

The condemnation comes as tensions across the Middle East remain elevated following weeks of military exchanges involving Iran, the United States and several regional actors. The deteriorating security environment has heightened international concern over the possibility of a broader regional conflict with consequences for civilian populations, energy markets and international trade.

Iraqi authorities have not publicly released detailed information about the reported strike, while independent verification of the incident remains limited. Iran had not immediately commented on Qatar’s statement.

Qatar has consistently advocated political dialogue and diplomatic engagement in response to regional crises. The Gulf state has frequently acted as a mediator in conflicts across the Middle East and has maintained that negotiations, rather than military confrontation, offer the most effective means of resolving disputes.

The latest statement reflects Doha’s broader foreign policy approach, which emphasizes respect for state sovereignty, peaceful conflict resolution and adherence to international law. Qatar has repeatedly called on regional and international actors to avoid actions that could widen existing conflicts and further undermine regional security.

The reported strike also comes at a time when Iraq continues to face growing security challenges linked to regional rivalries. Baghdad has repeatedly sought to prevent its territory from becoming a battleground for external conflicts, while Iraqi officials have urged neighboring countries to respect the country’s sovereignty and avoid actions that threaten its stability.

The post Qatar Strongly Condemns Iran’s Strike on Iraq’s Kurdistan Region appeared first on Khaama Press.

The United States has closed its consulate in Peshawar, transferring diplomatic responsibilities for Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad as part of a broader restructuring of its diplomatic presence in the country.

The U.S. Consulate General in Peshawar announced on X that engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will now be handled by the embassy’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Unit (KPU) in Islamabad. It also said the consulate’s official social media accounts have been discontinued.

The mission advised the public to follow the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan’s official communication channels for information on consular services and diplomatic activities, including economic cooperation, security coordination and outreach across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The consulate did not provide a reason for ending operations. However, the U.S. State Department has previously cited security concerns when outlining plans to close the mission.

The State Department has also informed Congress that the closure is expected to reduce operating costs by approximately $7.5 million annually.

The move is part of a broader reorganization of U.S. diplomatic operations in Pakistan, with diplomatic and consular functions for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expected to continue through the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad.

The post U.S. Closes Peshawar Consulate, Transfers Diplomatic Role to Islamabad appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran and the United States exchanged fresh military strikes on Saturday after the U.S. launched a seventh consecutive night of attacks on Iranian military targets, further escalating tensions across the Middle East and raising concerns over regional security and global energy supplies.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces struck Iranian surveillance sites, underground weapons storage facilities, military logistics infrastructure and naval assets during the latest phase of its campaign. In a statement, CENTCOM said more than 50,000 U.S. troops remain deployed across the Middle East and are prepared to respond to further threats if required.

Iranian state media reported that Tehran retaliated by launching missiles and drones at U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan, including what it described as drone storage sites in Bahrain. The reports could not be independently verified, and U.S. officials had not publicly confirmed the alleged attacks.

Kuwaiti authorities said a power generation and desalination facility was struck during the exchange of hostilities but did not immediately identify those responsible or provide details on casualties or damage.

Iranian media also claimed Tehran had closed the Strait of Hormuz and intercepted vessels accused of violating Iranian regulations. The United States disputed those claims, and there was no independent confirmation that commercial shipping through the strategic waterway had been suspended.

The latest escalation has renewed concerns over global energy markets. Oil prices rose more than 4% following the exchange of strikes as investors weighed the risk of potential disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne oil trade.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, expressing concern over attacks affecting civilian infrastructure. He warned that continued military escalation could trigger a broader regional conflict with serious humanitarian, economic and security consequences.

The post Iran, U.S. Exchange New Strikes as Middle East Tensions Escalate appeared first on Khaama Press.

China launched a new international artificial intelligence alliance on Friday as President Xi Jinping called for global cooperation, shared governance and broader access to AI, positioning Beijing as a leader in shaping the technology’s future.

China has launched a new international artificial intelligence alliance aimed at expanding global cooperation and developing regulatory frameworks for the safe use of AI, as competition over the technology intensifies between major powers.

Speaking at the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai on Friday, President Xi Jinping urged countries to seize what he described as a “historic opportunity” presented by artificial intelligence and called for closer international cooperation rather than technological rivalry.

Xi said no single country should dominate AI development, warning that unequal access to the technology could create what he called “new historical injustices.” He pledged that China would help developing countries strengthen their AI capabilities and promote more equitable access to emerging technologies.

According to Chinese officials, the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO) was formally established on July 16 with 29 founding member states, including Pakistan, Russia, Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Africa and Senegal. Beijing said the organization will promote international cooperation, coordinate AI governance and help develop global standards for the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence.

Xi described WAICO as “a milestone in the history of global AI development” and said China would establish AI cooperation centers with ASEAN, BRICS, Latin American countries and the African Union to expand technology partnerships.

The Chinese leader also promoted open-source AI technologies as a “global public good,” arguing that AI should remain human-centered, with people retaining ultimate control over intelligent systems. He called for stronger international mechanisms, including early-warning systems, to manage the risks associated with rapidly advancing AI.

The initiative comes as China and the United States compete for leadership in artificial intelligence through rival technology strategies and governance models. Washington has recently expanded cooperation with dozens of partner countries under its AI initiatives, while Beijing has accelerated investment in open-source AI models and international technology partnerships.

Governments worldwide are increasingly debating how to regulate artificial intelligence while balancing innovation with concerns over cybersecurity, misinformation, privacy, employment and national security.

The post China Launches Global AI Alliance, Xi Calls for Shared Governance and Wider Access appeared first on Khaama Press.

The United States has renewed its travel advisory for the Middle East, urging Americans to reconsider travel to or through the region, warning that heightened regional tensions have created a volatile security environment with the potential for sudden and unforeseen escalation.

The U.S. Department of State issued the updated advisory on Friday, saying security conditions across the Middle East remain “complex” because of rising regional tensions and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

In a statement posted by the Bureau of Consular Affairs on X, the department advised U.S. citizens in the region to closely monitor local and international news for breaking developments, review country-specific travel advisories before making travel plans, and remain prepared to adjust their itineraries as the security situation evolves.

The State Department also urged travelers passing through or departing from the region to confirm flight schedules directly with their airlines before travel, noting that commercial flights and transportation services could be disrupted if tensions escalate further.

The renewed advisory comes as military tensions between the United States and Iran remain elevated, particularly over security in and around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important waterways for global energy shipments. In recent weeks, the two countries have exchanged military strikes despite a Pakistan-mediated memorandum of understanding intended to halt hostilities and create conditions for renewed negotiations toward a lasting peace agreement. Both sides have accused each other of violating the understanding, raising concerns that the conflict could expand further.

Although the State Department did not cite a specific imminent threat, it warned that the unpredictable regional security environment increases the risk of rapidly changing conditions, including potential disruptions to air travel, border crossings and commercial transportation. U.S. officials encouraged American citizens to remain vigilant, follow the instructions of local authorities where appropriate, and maintain awareness of developments that could affect their safety.

The latest advisory reflects broader concerns about instability across the Middle East, where ongoing military confrontations, maritime security risks, and regional conflicts have prompted several governments to update travel guidance for their citizens.

The United States regularly reviews and updates its travel advisories based on evolving security assessments. Similar warnings have been issued during previous periods of heightened instability, with officials emphasizing that travelers should evaluate the risks carefully before visiting countries affected by regional tensions.

The post U.S. Renews Middle East Travel Warning, Urges Americans to Reconsider Travel appeared first on Khaama Press.

Badakhshan uthorities said they retook a district in Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province after an overnight attack claimed by an anti-Kabul administraion.

Badakhshan authorities said on Friday they had regained control of Yaftal-e Payin district in northeastern Badakhshan province after an overnight attack, following earlier claims by an anti-Taliban armed group that it had briefly seized the district.

Police spokesperson Ehsanullah Kamgar said the attack occurred while several Taliban fighters and commanders were on leave. He said reinforcements returned within hours and restored control over the district.

Kamgar said Taliban authorities arrested seven people in connection with the incident and seized weapons and military equipment. He did not identify those detained or specify which armed group was responsible for the attack.

Following the incident, Taliban army chief of staff Fasihuddin Fitrat traveled to Badakhshan and said security forces would take action against anyone attempting to destabilize the province.

Local residents said security measures were tightened in Yaftal-e Payin after Fitrat’s visit and alleged that some civilians were harassed during subsequent security operations.

Earlier on Friday, local sources said the Maihan Soldiers Front, an armed group, had briefly taken control of the district and raised its flag over government buildings. Badakhshan has witnessed periodic clashes between security forces and armed groups since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.

The post Badakhshan Officials Say Yaftal-e Payin District Retaken After Overnight Attack appeared first on Khaama Press.

Indian police arrested an Afghan national accused of overstaying his visa for five years and using forged identity documents, authorities said.

Police in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata have arrested an Afghan national accused of overstaying his visa for nearly five years and using forged Indian identity documents, Indian media reports.

The suspect, identified by police as Jamil Khan, was arrested by Kolkata Police’s Security Control Organisation during an operation in the Bhawanipur area of south Kolkata, Indian media reported on Friday.

According to police, Khan entered India in February 2021 on a three-month tourist visa. Authorities allege that after his visa expired in May 2021, he remained in the country without legal authorization.

Investigators further allege that Khan obtained forged Indian identity documents, including a local identity card and a driver’s licence, and used them to establish and operate a business in Kolkata. Police have not publicly disclosed the nature of the business.

According to Kolkata Police, the alleged document fraud was uncovered during a verification exercise conducted by the force’s intelligence wing, which was reviewing passport and visa records.

Indian media, citing police officials, reported that Khan admitted during questioning that he had remained in India after his visa expired. Police said a criminal case has been registered at Bhawanipur Police Station, and the investigation is continuing.

Authorities are also examining whether Khan was connected to a broader network involved in producing forged identity documents for foreign nationals. Police have not announced any additional arrests.

Officials have not disclosed whether Khan has legal representation or whether deportation proceedings have begun.

India periodically conducts immigration enforcement operations against foreign nationals accused of overstaying visas or using fraudulent documents. Under Indian law, offences involving forged identity documents can carry criminal penalties, including imprisonment, fines and deportation following legal proceedings.

Following political changes in Afghanistan in 2021, Indian authorities have maintained heightened scrutiny of visa compliance and document verification involving foreign nationals, including Afghans, while continuing to host Afghan citizens under various visa categories.

The post Indian Police Arrest Afghan Man Over Alleged Visa Overstay appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned artificial intelligence could deepen global inequality unless countries ensure its benefits are shared fairly worldwide.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned on Friday that artificial intelligence could deepen global inequality by widening gaps in income, opportunity and security unless governments work together to ensure its benefits are shared fairly.

In a post on X, Guterres said the world must not allow AI to reinforce existing economic and social divides or widen disparities between developed and developing countries.

“Artificial intelligence should be a force for inclusion and shared prosperity, not a driver of greater inequality,” Guterres said, urging governments and technology leaders to ensure the technology benefits all societies.

He called for stronger international cooperation to promote equitable access to AI and to prevent technological advances from disproportionately benefiting wealthier nations while leaving poorer countries further behind.

Guterres’ comments come as governments, technology companies and international organizations continue to debate how AI should be regulated amid its rapid development and expanding influence across economies, labor markets and public services.

The United Nations has repeatedly called for global governance frameworks that ensure artificial intelligence is developed and deployed in ways that are safe, inclusive and consistent with international human rights standards and the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals.

The organization has warned that without coordinated international action, AI could exacerbate existing inequalities by concentrating wealth, technological capacity and economic opportunities in a small number of countries while limiting access for developing economies.

The post UN Chief Warns AI Could Widen Global Inequality appeared first on Khaama Press.

The Trump administration is considering a proposal that would require some applicants for U.S. permanent residency to post a refundable bond of up to $100,000 before receiving a green card, according to U.S. officials.

MSN.com reported on Friday that the proposal, which is being developed by the U.S. State Department, would initially be introduced as a pilot program in a limited number of countries before any broader rollout. The bond amount has not been finalized and could vary depending on individual cases.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the department is exploring its authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to require bonds for certain immigrant visa applicants. He said the measure is intended to support President Donald Trump’s policy that immigrants should be financially self-sufficient and demonstrate they have access to adequate financial resources before moving to the United States.

According to people familiar with the discussions, applicants would receive the bond back after becoming U.S. citizens, a process that generally takes at least five years. Family members already living in the United States could also be allowed to post the bond on an applicant’s behalf.

The proposal would primarily affect people applying for immigrant visas through U.S. consulates abroad, including many relatives of U.S. citizens seeking permanent residency. The State Department issues hundreds of thousands of immigrant visas each year.

The proposed policy follows several immigration initiatives introduced during the Trump administration. Earlier this year, a federal judge struck down a $100,000 fee imposed on employers sponsoring H-1B visa workers, ruling that the administration lacked congressional authority to impose the charge. The Department of Homeland Security has said it will appeal the decision.

The administration also launched the Trump Gold Card program, offering expedited U.S. residency to foreign nationals who pay a $15,000 processing fee and make a $1 million contribution. Government data show participation has been lower than initially projected.

A separate refundable bond program already applies to some tourist and business visa applicants from about 50 countries, requiring bonds of up to $15,000 that may be forfeited if visa conditions are violated. U.S. officials have said the pilot program has helped reduce visa overstays.

Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups have argued that a six-figure bond could make permanent residency more difficult for lower-income families and applicants seeking family reunification. Supporters of the proposal, however, say it would help ensure new immigrants can support themselves financially without relying on public assistance.

The proposal remains under review, and the State Department has not announced whether or when it will be implemented.

The post Trump Administration Considers $100,000 Refundable Bond for Some Green Card Applicants appeared first on Khaama Press.

China and Pakistan urged Iran and the United States to maintain the ceasefire and resume negotiations, calling diplomacy the only path to stability.

China and Pakistan have called on Iran and the United States to preserve the current ceasefire and return to political negotiations, stressing that diplomacy remains the most effective way to reduce tensions and prevent further instability in the Middle East.

The appeal came during a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Shanghai, where the two sides discussed regional security and recent developments following the military confrontation between Washington and Tehran.

According to a statement released by China’s Foreign Ministry, the ministers said continued escalation serves no country’s interests and urged all parties to uphold the ceasefire and avoid actions that could reignite hostilities.

The two sides also called for creating conditions that would allow Tehran and Washington to resume political dialogue, describing negotiations as the most sustainable path toward regional peace and security.

China and Pakistan reaffirmed their support for resolving international disputes through dialogue and diplomatic engagement rather than military confrontation, emphasizing the need to prevent further deterioration of the regional security situation.

The meeting took place as diplomatic efforts continue to consolidate a fragile ceasefire after several days of direct military exchanges between Iran and the United States that raised concerns about a broader regional conflict.

China and Pakistan have consistently advocated diplomatic solutions to regional and international disputes and have opposed further military escalation in the Middle East. Beijing has sought to expand its role as a regional mediator in recent years, while Islamabad has repeatedly called for restraint and dialogue to prevent conflicts from disrupting regional stability and global energy markets.

The post China, Pakistan Urge Iran, U.S. to Resume Talks appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.S. President Donald Trump will attend Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey, the White House confirmed on Thursday.

U.S. President Donald Trump will attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, the White House confirmed on Thursday, highlighting the administration’s participation in the tournament’s closing events.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump is scheduled to travel to the stadium for the championship match, which will conclude the first FIFA World Cup expanded to 48 teams.

Leavitt also announced that Trump will attend an official FIFA event at Trump Tower in New York on Friday as part of activities surrounding the tournament’s finale.

Earlier this week, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he and Trump would jointly present the World Cup trophy to the captain of the winning team following Sunday’s final, underscoring the close cooperation between FIFA and the tournament’s host nation.

Leavitt declined to say which team Trump would support when asked by reporters, saying they could ask the president directly.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament has been staged across three countries and the first edition featuring 48 participating teams.

The final at MetLife Stadium is expected to attract a global television audience of hundreds of millions, bringing the month-long tournament to a close with one of the biggest events on the international sporting calendar.

The expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup is the largest in the tournament’s history, with 48 teams competing across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA has described the event as a milestone for the global growth of football, while U.S. officials have presented the tournament as an opportunity to showcase the country’s ability to host major international sporting events ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The post Trump to Attend 2026 FIFA World Cup Final in New Jersey, White House Says appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran, Tajikistan and Afghanistan agreed to establish a road transit corridor aimed at expanding regional trade and improving cross-border freight connectivity.

Iran, Tajikistan and Afghanistan have agreed to establish a new road transit corridor through Afghan territory to facilitate regional trade and streamline freight transport between Iran and Tajikistan, officials said on Thursday.

Taliban’s Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation said the agreement was reached during a trilateral meeting in the Iranian city of Mashhad. The ministry said the initiative will create a dedicated overland transport route allowing commercial goods to move between Iran and Tajikistan via Afghanistan, with the aim of strengthening regional connectivity and expanding economic cooperation.

According to the ministry, the corridor will enable cargo shipments from both Iran and Tajikistan to transit Afghanistan territory under a coordinated transport framework designed to simplify cross-border freight movement and improve logistics.

Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, citing the General Directorate of Road Maintenance and Transportation of Razavi Khorasan Province, reported that senior transport officials from the three sides signed an operational framework for implementing the corridor.

Jafar Shahamat, head of the Razavi Khorasan road transport authority, said the first pilot shipment is expected to pass through the corridor within the next month. The trial will involve transport fleets from all three participants and will assess customs procedures, border operations, logistics coordination and the commercial viability of the route before full implementation.

The agreement comes as Afghanistan seeks to diversify trade routes and strengthen regional economic integration amid persistent economic challenges. Improved overland connectivity has become increasingly important as businesses continue to face higher transport costs, supply chain disruptions and logistical uncertainties linked to regional instability.

According to the World Bank, Iran accounted for 31.6% of Afghanistan’s total imports, making it the country’s largest import partner. Analysts say the planned corridor could strengthen regional trade and improve supply chains, although its long-term success will depend on security conditions, efficient customs coordination and effective implementation by all three countries.

Afghanistan has increasingly sought to expand regional transit links with neighboring countries as part of broader efforts to boost trade, reduce transport costs and improve access to international markets. Landlocked Afghanistan relies heavily on overland trade corridors through neighboring states, making regional transport cooperation critical to its economic recovery and long-term development.

The post Iran, Tajikistan and Kabul Agree on New Road Transit Corridor Through Afghanistan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Britain pledged £105 million annually in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan through 2029, focusing on food security, healthcare, women and vulnerable communities.

The United Kingdom has pledged £105 million ($141 million) annually in humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan through 2029, reaffirming its long-term commitment to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises while placing women, girls and vulnerable communities at the center of its aid strategy.

In a written statement to Parliament on Thursday, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan Hamish Falconer said Britain will provide £420 million between 2026 and 2029 to support life-saving humanitarian assistance and essential services across Afghanistan, where millions remain dependent on international aid nearly five years after the Taliban returned to power.

The UK government said an estimated 22 million people are expected to require humanitarian assistance this year, while 17.4 million face acute food insecurity. It added that almost 5 million women, girls and boys are projected to require treatment for acute malnutrition in 2026, underscoring the scale of the country’s humanitarian emergency.

British officials said the funding will support emergency food assistance, healthcare, nutrition, education, livelihoods, protection services and climate resilience. The government said aid will continue to be delivered through trusted humanitarian organizations and Afghan partners operating independently of the Taliban authorities.

London also pledged additional support for Afghans returning from neighboring countries, particularly Iran, where hundreds of thousands have returned or been deported in recent months, placing further strain on already overstretched humanitarian services.

The statement reaffirmed Britain’s criticism of the Taliban’s restrictions on women and girls, saying bans on education, employment and public participation violate fundamental rights and undermine Afghanistan’s long-term stability and development. The government said women and girls will remain a priority, with at least half of all beneficiaries of UK-funded humanitarian programs expected to be female.

The announcement comes as international aid agencies warn that Afghanistan’s humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate. UNICEF recently said severe acute malnutrition has spread to 26 of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces, while humanitarian organizations have cited funding shortages, economic decline, climate shocks and restrictions affecting women as major obstacles to aid delivery.

British officials said the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) will oversee independent monitoring mechanisms to help ensure assistance reaches intended beneficiaries. According to the government, UK development assistance supported at least 2.7 million people during the 2024–25 financial year, including more than 1.7 million women and girls.

The government also reaffirmed its political support for Afghan women, saying it will continue to elevate their voices in international policymaking. It highlighted the UK Special Envoy’s visit to Kabul in May, where he met Afghan women and civil society representatives, and officials’ assessment mission to the Islam Qala border crossing to review the humanitarian needs of returnees arriving from Iran.

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s largest humanitarian emergencies following years of conflict, economic collapse and recurring climate shocks. Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, international sanctions, reduced development assistance and restrictions on women and girls have deepened the country’s economic and social crisis.

According to the United Nations, millions of Afghans continue to rely on humanitarian aid for food, healthcare and other basic services, while donor agencies have repeatedly warned that funding shortfalls threaten critical relief operations.

The post UK Pledges £420 Million in Humanitarian Aid for Afghanistan Through 2029 appeared first on Khaama Press.

Yemen’s Houthi movement is preparing to block the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital maritime route linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, according to a report published by Britain’s The Telegraph. If carried out, the move could disrupt global shipping and force commercial vessels to take longer routes around southern Africa.

According to The Telegraph, which cited informed sources, the Houthis have not yet launched the operation but are waiting for what they consider an appropriate moment. The newspaper reported that the move is viewed by regional observers as part of a broader strategy aligned with Iran to increase pressure on the United States and its allies by threatening key maritime chokepoints.

The report has not been independently verified, and neither the Houthi movement nor Iranian officials had publicly commented on the claims at the time of publication.

The reported preparations come as tensions across the Middle East remain elevated following several days of direct military exchanges between the United States and Iran. U.S. forces have conducted strikes against Iranian military infrastructure around the Strait of Hormuz, saying the operations are intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping. Iran has responded by claiming missile and drone attacks against U.S. military facilities in the region, although several of those claims have not been independently verified.

The Bab al-Mandab Strait is one of the world’s most important maritime corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil shipments and international trade. Any prolonged disruption could delay global supply chains, increase freight costs and place additional pressure on energy markets.

The Houthis have previously launched missile and drone attacks against commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea, saying their operations are linked to the war in Gaza and support for Palestinians. Those attacks prompted the United States and several allied countries to establish a multinational maritime security mission and conduct military operations aimed at protecting freedom of navigation.

According to The Telegraph, regional security officials are closely monitoring the situation amid concerns that any attempt to disrupt traffic through the Bab al-Mandab Strait could widen the conflict and increase risks to international shipping.

The post Telegraph says Houthis preparing to block Bab al-Mandab Strait appeared first on Khaama Press.

A photograph of Lionel Messi holding and bathing a baby Lamine Yamal has gone viral again on social media ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, reviving one of football’s most remarkable and unexpected stories.

The image was taken in December 2007 during a charity calendar project organized by UNICEF in partnership with the FC Barcelona Foundation. Families were selected through a public raffle to participate in the campaign, and Yamal’s family was among those chosen.

At the time, Messi was a 20-year-old rising star at Barcelona, while Yamal was only a few months old. During the charity photoshoot, Messi posed while gently holding and bathing the infant, creating an image that would gain worldwide attention nearly two decades later.

The photograph remained largely unknown for years before resurfacing after Yamal’s father shared it publicly. The Spain international has since said he was unaware of the photograph throughout his childhood and only learned about it years later.

The image has become one of football’s most memorable coincidences, linking one of the greatest players in history with one of the game’s brightest emerging stars long before Yamal began his professional career.

Yamal has repeatedly welcomed comparisons with the Argentine legend but has emphasized that he wants to build his own legacy.

“It is a great honor to be compared with Messi,” Yamal has said in previous interviews. “But no one can be Messi.”

Messi has also praised Yamal’s talent on several occasions, describing the young Spanish forward as one of football’s most promising players, although he has rarely commented publicly on the 2007 charity photoshoot itself.

The renewed attention comes as Argentina and Spain prepare to meet in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, a matchup that has added fresh significance to the photograph. Football supporters have widely shared the image online, describing it as a symbolic passing of the torch between generations.

The final will pit reigning world champions Argentina against Spain, who are seeking their second FIFA World Cup title after winning the tournament in 2010. While Messi is aiming to add another World Cup triumph to his career, Yamal is expected to play in his first World Cup final as one of Spain’s key attacking players.

Although the photograph has frequently circulated online in recent years, it has gained renewed global attention because of the upcoming final, with many fans viewing it as one of football’s most extraordinary moments of coincidence.

The post Messi’s Photo With Baby Lamine Yamal Goes Viral Ahead of World Cup Final appeared first on Khaama Press.

Syrian authorities said on Thursday they intercepted a shipment of advanced weapons allegedly destined for the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah after discovering rockets and drones concealed inside an oil tanker entering Syria from Iraq.

According to Syria’s General Authority for Ports and Border Crossings, customs officials uncovered the weapons during a routine inspection at the al-Tanf border crossing. Authorities said inspectors became suspicious of the tanker and conducted a more thorough search, leading to the discovery of rockets, drones and other weapons hidden inside the vehicle.

A source in Syria’s Interior Ministry said the shipment was intended for Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese armed group. Syrian authorities did not disclose the quantity or specific types of weapons allegedly seized, and the claims have not been independently verified. Hezbollah denied any involvement.

In a statement, the group rejected the allegations as “fabricated and baseless” and said it was not operating in Syria. It did not provide further comment on the reported seizure.

Following Syria’s announcement, Iraq said it had established a high-level committee to investigate the incident.

According to Iraq’s Joint Operations Command, the committee will coordinate with Syrian authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged smuggling attempt, identify those responsible and review border security procedures.

The reported seizure comes amid heightened regional tensions and increased scrutiny of cross-border arms trafficking involving Iran-backed groups operating across the Middle East.

Syria’s authorities have pledged to strengthen border controls following the political transition that removed former President Bashar al-Assad from power, saying efforts are underway to curb smuggling networks and improve security along the country’s frontiers.

The case also draws attention to the growing strategic importance of the Iraq-Syria overland transport corridor. Last month, Reuters reported that Iraq was preparing to expand energy exports through Syria by adding crude oil and naphtha shipments to the existing route supplying fuel oil to the Mediterranean port of Baniyas.

Iraqi officials said the initiative is intended to diversify export routes beyond the Persian Gulf while strengthening regional trade. Reuters also noted that the corridor has attracted increasing security attention because of concerns over illicit cross-border trafficking.

The post Syria Says It Seized Alleged Hezbollah-Bound Weapons Shipment at Iraqi Border appeared first on Khaama Press.

The U.S. military said it launched a new wave of strikes against Iran on Thursday, extending its campaign into a sixth consecutive night as hostilities between Washington and Tehran continued to escalate.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces began the latest operation at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to further degrade Iran’s military capabilities.

In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said the operation targeted Iranian military assets but did not identify the locations or specify the targets struck. The command also did not provide information on the scale of the operation or an initial assessment of damage.

The latest strikes follow several days of U.S. military operations targeting Iranian air defense systems, missile and drone capabilities, command-and-control infrastructure and coastal surveillance facilities. U.S. officials have said the campaign is intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and U.S. forces operating near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy transit route.

Iran has responded by claiming a series of retaliatory missile and drone attacks against U.S. military facilities in the region. In recent days, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has said it targeted U.S.-used military installations in Jordan and Kuwait, including Al Azraq Air Base and Ali Al Salem Air Base. Jordanian authorities have separately reported intercepting missiles and drones that entered the country’s airspace. U.S. and Kuwaiti officials have not publicly confirmed Iran’s claims, and independent verification remains unavailable.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has condemned the U.S. military campaign, accusing Washington of violating international law through strikes on Iranian territory. He has said Iran will continue to respond to what it describes as acts of aggression, while U.S. officials maintain that the operations are aimed at protecting regional security and freedom of navigation.

The continued exchange of military strikes has heightened concerns about a broader regional conflict involving U.S. forces and their allies across the Middle East. Diplomatic efforts to ease tensions have so far shown little progress as both sides continue military operations and exchange increasingly confrontational statements.

The post U.S. Launches Fresh Strikes on Iran as Military Campaign Enters Sixth Consecutive Night appeared first on Khaama Press.

The killing of 27 police officers near Mangi Dam in Pakistan’s Balochistan province has exposed serious weaknesses in the country’s internal-security structure.

Nine officers were killed when militants attacked a police post guarding a pumping station in Ziarat district. The attackers abducted 18 other officers, who were later found shot dead in nearby mountains. The scale of the attack, and the militants’ ability to leave the area with so many captives, raised questions about preparedness, intelligence, communications and the availability of reinforcements. 

Relatives of the slain officers held a prolonged sit-in beside their coffins, demanding justice and stronger action against those responsible. The Balochistan government suspended the Ziarat superintendent of police and established an inquiry committee to examine deployment, command, response and coordination among all law-enforcement and security agencies. The committee was also instructed to determine whether negligence, operational failure or a breakdown in coordination contributed to the losses. 

These developments do not by themselves prove that Pakistan’s police and military institutions are in open conflict. They do, however, point to a growing gap between the institutions that carry frontline risk and those that control the country’s larger counterterrorism resources and strategy.

Police on an expanding frontline

That imbalance is increasingly visible in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where police stations, patrols and checkpoints have become frequent targets.

According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, Pakistan recorded 128 militant attacks in May 2026, a 27 percent increase from April. The violence killed 71 civilians, 68 security personnel and six members of local peace committees. Balochistan was the worst-affected province, recording 71 attacks during the month. 

Provincial police are expected to protect communities, gather local intelligence, secure roads and government installations, respond to militant attacks and maintain public order. Yet they often operate with fewer resources and less institutional influence than the army and Frontier Corps.

The Frontier Corps is formally under Pakistan’s Interior Ministry but is commanded by officers seconded from the army. It carries out border-security, counterinsurgency and counterterrorism duties alongside the military and provincial law-enforcement agencies. This overlapping structure makes effective coordination essential, particularly when isolated police units come under sustained attack. 

The Mangi Dam inquiry is therefore significant. Its mandate extends beyond the conduct of one police commander and includes the response and coordination of all relevant agencies. Responsibility should not be placed on provincial officers before the inquiry establishes what intelligence was available, what assistance was requested and how quickly supporting forces responded.

Staffing and morale

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police is also facing substantial personnel shortages. Reporting in June found that the force lacked about 170 supervisory officers in grades 17 to 19, including more than 100 assistant and deputy superintendents and 68 officers at the superintendent and senior superintendent levels. The provincial police chief separately said the force was around 11,000 personnel below its sanctioned strength. 

The federal Establishment Division transferred 10 police officers from Punjab to designated “hard areas” in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan in May. Police authorities have also sought special financial allowances to improve morale and retain personnel as attacks on the force increase. 

These measures acknowledge the danger but do not resolve the deeper problem. Police cannot be expected to hold exposed positions, gather intelligence and absorb repeated attacks without adequate staffing, fortified facilities, modern equipment and dependable operational support.

Lessons from Balochistan

The July attacks in Balochistan killed 42 people, according to Pakistan’s military: four civilians near Hanna Urak, 27 police officers in the Mangi Dam attack and its aftermath, and 11 soldiers in an attack on a convoy near Bela-Winder. The state responded with a large joint operation involving the army, Frontier Corps and police. 

That response demonstrates that the country’s security institutions can act together after a major attack. The more difficult question is whether the same level of coordination exists before and during an assault, when isolated police units need timely intelligence, ammunition, evacuation and reinforcement.

Pakistan’s internal-security crisis is no longer limited to a confrontation between the state and armed groups. It is also testing the distribution of responsibility inside the state itself.

The army and paramilitary forces possess heavier resources and broader strategic authority. Provincial police maintain daily contact with vulnerable communities and are often the first to confront attacks. When responsibility, resources and accountability are distributed unevenly, institutional trust weakens.

Militant groups benefit from those gaps. Police officers become easier targets, local intelligence networks deteriorate and communities lose confidence in the state’s capacity to protect them.

Pakistan does not simply need more operations after attacks. It needs a security structure in which provincial police receive the personnel, protection, authority and institutional support required for the role they are already being asked to perform.

Disclaimer: This article was submitted by an independent contributor. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the editorial position of Khaama Press.

The post Pakistan’s Security Divide: Police Bear the Cost of Expanding Militancy appeared first on Khaama Press.

Russia has expressed renewed concern over Afghanistan’s humanitarian situation, citing high infant mortality and the continued spread of polio while accusing Western countries of politicizing humanitarian assistance and maintaining measures that have worsened the country’s economic crisis.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday that Afghanistan continues to face severe humanitarian challenges, describing infant mortality and the resurgence of polio as among the country’s most pressing public health concerns.

Citing World Health Organization (WHO) data, Zakharova said 21 polio cases had been recorded in border areas of Afghanistan and Pakistan during 2025 and 2026. She added that many children under the age of 10 in those regions remain unvaccinated, increasing the risk of further transmission.

Zakharova also said Afghanistan’s infant mortality rate stands at 33.1 deaths per 1,000 live births, describing it as significantly higher than the global average and attributing the situation to the country’s fragile healthcare system and prolonged humanitarian crisis.

Her remarks came after the WHO announced four new cases of wild poliovirus in Afghanistan, reported in Nangarhar, Helmand and Herat provinces. According to the agency, the new infections bring the number of confirmed polio cases in Afghanistan this year to 11, underscoring continued challenges to eradication efforts.

Afghanistan remains one of only two countries where wild poliovirus remains endemic. The WHO and other humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that insecurity, population displacement, limited healthcare access, funding shortages and interruptions to vaccination campaigns continue to hamper eradication efforts, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

United Nations agencies have also warned that Afghanistan’s broader humanitarian crisis has been intensified by economic decline, widespread poverty, climate-related shocks and declining international aid. They have further stated that restrictions imposed on women since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 have complicated the delivery of humanitarian assistance and reduced access to healthcare and other essential services.

The post Russia Warns of Worsening Humanitarian Crisis as Polio Cases Rise in Afghanistan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has distributed food assistance to 154 vulnerable families in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province, as humanitarian agencies continue to warn of widespread food insecurity across the country.

KSrelief said on Wednesday that the assistance benefited 1,078 people, including returning refugees, internally displaced persons, low-income households and orphaned children. The food packages were distributed under the center’s Food Security and Emergency Support Project in Afghanistan.

According to KSrelief, the initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian assistance aimed at supporting vulnerable communities affected by Afghanistan’s prolonged humanitarian and economic crisis.

The distribution comes as international aid agencies continue to warn that millions of Afghans face acute food insecurity. Humanitarian organizations have identified returning refugees, internally displaced families and low-income households among those most in need of emergency food assistance.

UNICEF recently warned that severe acute malnutrition among children has expanded to 26 of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces, placing millions of children at increased risk without sustained humanitarian support. The agency has called for additional funding to maintain nutrition and health services across the country.

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with years of economic decline, widespread poverty, climate-related shocks and declining international assistance contributing to growing humanitarian needs. Aid agencies say food insecurity continues to affect millions of people, particularly those displaced by conflict, natural disasters or economic hardship.

The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have also warned that restrictions imposed since the Taliban returned to power in 2021 have complicated humanitarian conditions. They say limits on girls’ education and women’s participation in the workforce have reduced household incomes and affected the delivery of health, nutrition and other essential services.

Humanitarian organizations continue to appeal for sustained international funding, warning that millions of Afghans will remain dependent on emergency assistance unless aid operations receive adequate financial support.

The post Saudi Aid Agency Delivers Food Assistance to Vulnerable Families in Northern Afghanistan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has called for urgent action to address worsening child malnutrition in Afghanistan, urging institutions and the international community to strengthen humanitarian support while emphasizing that education, particularly for girls, is essential to the country’s long-term recovery.

In a post on X on Wednesday, Karzai responded to a recent UNICEF warning that severe acute malnutrition among Afghan children is worsening. He called on relevant institutions and international organizations to give greater attention to the health and nutrition of Afghan children and to take effective measures to prevent the crisis from deepening.

Karzai said humanitarian assistance remains critical but argued that lasting solutions require investment in education and human capital.

“Providing all children and young people, especially girls, with access to education will help develop skilled professionals, raise public awareness and strengthen the country’s ability to solve its own challenges through domestic capacity,” he wrote.

His remarks followed a UNICEF assessment warning that severe acute malnutrition is affecting children across much of Afghanistan. According to the UN agency, the crisis has expanded to 26 of the country’s 34 provinces, placing millions of children at risk if humanitarian assistance is not sustained.

UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that Afghanistan continues to face one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. Years of economic decline, widespread food insecurity, climate-related shocks and declining international funding have left millions of families dependent on humanitarian aid.

Aid agencies have also said restrictions on women and girls have compounded the crisis by limiting access to education, healthcare and other essential services.

Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have barred girls from secondary schools and universities and imposed broad restrictions on women’s employment and participation in public life. The United Nations has repeatedly stated that the restrictions undermine Afghanistan’s long-term development and weaken key sectors, including education and healthcare.

Karzai has consistently urged the reopening of schools and universities for girls, describing education as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s future stability, economic recovery and sustainable development.

The post Karzai Urges Action on Child Malnutrition, Calls Girls’ Education Vital for Afghanistan appeared first on Khaama Press.

Six Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives have called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release the full autopsy report of an Afghan refugee who died after being taken into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody, while seeking information about the detention and deportation of other former Afghan partners of the United States.

In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, the lawmakers requested details surrounding the death of Mohammad Nazir Paktiawal, an Afghan national whom they said had supported U.S. military forces in Afghanistan. The letter also asked DHS to explain why he was detained and to provide information on the department’s treatment of former Afghan allies in immigration proceedings.

The lawmakers who signed the letter are Seth Magaziner, Julie Johnson, James R. Walkinshaw, Dan Goldman, Shri Thanedar, and LaMonica McIver.

According to the lawmakers, Paktiawal was arrested by ICE officers on March 13 while taking his children to school. They said he had no criminal convictions and had a documented history of assisting U.S. Special Forces during the war in Afghanistan.

The letter states that Paktiawal suffered from a respiratory condition and that his wife attempted to provide him with an inhaler during the arrest. DHS has said he later experienced breathing difficulties while in custody and was transported to a hospital, where he died the following day.

The lawmakers said the circumstances surrounding his death warrant greater transparency and urged DHS to release the complete autopsy report.

“It is unacceptable that someone who bravely fought alongside American forces could be so easily abandoned by the very government he served,” the lawmakers wrote, adding that Paktiawal’s family deserves a full account of the events leading to his death.

The lawmakers also requested information about the broader treatment of Afghans who assisted U.S. forces before the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Specifically, they asked DHS to disclose how many former Afghan partners have been detained, deported or are currently in immigration detention, as well as how many face removal proceedings.

The request comes amid continuing concern among veterans’ groups, refugee advocates and some members of Congress over the treatment of Afghans who relocated to the United States after supporting U.S. military and diplomatic missions during the two-decade conflict in Afghanistan.

The Department of Homeland Security had not publicly responded to the lawmakers’ letter at the time of publication.

The post U.S. Lawmakers Seek Autopsy Report After Afghan Refugee Dies in ICE Custody appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Thursday that its latest round of military operations against Iran has concluded after targeting military infrastructure that Washington says was used to threaten commercial shipping and U.S. forces in the region.

In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said the operation ended on Wednesday evening U.S. Eastern Time. According to the command, U.S. forces struck Iranian command-and-control facilities, air defense systems, missile and drone capabilities, and coastal surveillance sites.

CENTCOM said the strikes were intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes for global energy supplies.

The U.S. military did not disclose the extent of the damage inflicted or whether additional operations remain under consideration. It also did not announce changes to the deployment of U.S. forces in the region.

The operation followed several consecutive days of U.S. strikes against Iranian military infrastructure along the country’s southern coastline and near the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. officials have said the campaign is aimed at protecting freedom of navigation and deterring attacks on commercial shipping.

Iran has responded by claiming a series of retaliatory missile and drone attacks against U.S. military facilities across the Middle East.

Earlier this week, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it targeted the U.S.-used Al Azraq Air Base in Jordan. Jordanian military officials later said the country’s air defenses intercepted projectiles entering its airspace and reported no casualties or damage. Those accounts have not been independently verified.

On Thursday, the IRGC also claimed it launched missile and drone strikes against two U.S. military facilities in Kuwait. According to Iran’s state-affiliated Fars News Agency, the attacks targeted Ali Al Salem Air Base and another U.S. military installation. The United States and Kuwait had not confirmed the reported strikes or any resulting damage at the time of publication, and the Iranian claims could not be independently verified.

The latest exchange underscores the continuing military confrontation between Washington and Tehran, raising concerns among regional governments and international observers about the potential for a broader conflict. The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne oil passes, remains under heightened security as tensions continue.

The post U.S. Military Says Latest Wave of Strikes on Iran Has Concluded appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Thursday that it launched missile and drone attacks on two U.S. military facilities in Kuwait, saying the strikes were carried out in response to recent U.S. military operations against targets in Iran.

According to Iran’s state-affiliated Fars News Agency, the IRGC said it targeted Ali Al Salem Air Base and Camp Buehring in Kuwait. It also claimed the operation destroyed a U.S. Counter-Rocket, Artillery and Mortar (C-RAM) radar system at Ali Al Salem Air Base.

The claims could not be independently verified. Neither the U.S. Department of Defense nor Kuwaiti authorities had publicly confirmed the reported attacks or any resulting damage at the time of publication.

The IRGC said the operation involved a combination of ballistic missiles and armed drones. It described the strikes as retaliation for recent U.S. military operations targeting Iranian military infrastructure along the country’s southern coast.

The announcement followed earlier Iranian claims that it had targeted the U.S.-used Al Azraq Air Base in neighboring Jordan. Jordanian military sources later said the country’s air defense systems intercepted projectiles that entered its airspace, reporting no casualties or material damage.

The reported attacks come as hostilities between the United States and Iran continue to escalate. In recent days, U.S. forces have conducted multiple rounds of strikes against Iranian military infrastructure, including air defense systems, radar installations, missile sites and drone facilities. Washington has said the operations are intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has responded by claiming missile and drone attacks against U.S. military facilities in several countries across the region, including Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. U.S. officials have not confirmed many of those claims, and independent verification has remained limited.

The exchange of military action has raised concerns about the risk of a broader regional conflict involving U.S. forces and their allies. It has also heightened fears of further disruption to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.

The post Iran Claims Missile, Drone Strikes on Two U.S. Military Bases in Kuwait appeared first on Khaama Press.

Pakistan is set to join the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) during Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar’s visit to China, where he is attending the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday.

In a statement posted on X, the ministry said Dar will sign Pakistan’s accession to WAICO as part of his visit to Shanghai. He is also expected to hold meetings with government officials, technology leaders and international participants to discuss cooperation on inclusive and equitable artificial intelligence.

According to the ministry, Pakistan’s accession to WAICO reflects the country’s efforts to strengthen international cooperation in emerging technologies and expand its engagement in global discussions on artificial intelligence.

The World Artificial Intelligence Conference, held annually in Shanghai, is one of China’s leading technology forums. The event brings together government representatives, researchers, technology companies and industry leaders to discuss advances in artificial intelligence, governance frameworks, innovation and international cooperation.

Pakistan’s planned membership comes as countries increasingly seek to shape global standards for artificial intelligence while expanding investment in the technology. Artificial intelligence has become a major area of strategic competition, particularly between the United States and China, which continue to invest heavily in AI research, infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.

At the same time, governments, technology companies and policy experts have expressed growing concern about the rapid development of artificial intelligence. Issues including cybersecurity, misinformation, data privacy, ethical governance and the impact of automation on employment have become central to international policy discussions.

Pakistan has identified digital transformation and technology-led economic growth as priorities in recent years. Government officials have promoted investment in digital infrastructure, innovation and emerging technologies as part of broader efforts to modernize the economy and strengthen international partnerships.

Dar’s participation in the Shanghai conference also reflects Pakistan’s efforts to deepen technological cooperation with China while increasing its role in international dialogue on the governance and responsible development of artificial intelligence.

The post Pakistan’s Dar Heads to Shanghai to Join China-Led AI Cooperation Body appeared first on Khaama Press.

Jordanian military sources said the country’s air defense systems intercepted and destroyed eight Iranian missiles that entered Jordanian airspace on Thursday, with no casualties or damage reported, according to Al Jazeera.

Citing a Jordanian military source, Al Jazeera reported that the missiles were intercepted after being launched toward Jordanian territory. The source said the operation was carried out successfully and that no civilians were injured and no infrastructure was damaged.

Jordanian authorities did not identify the intended targets of the missiles or provide further operational details. The Jordanian Armed Forces had not issued a detailed public statement at the time of publication.

The reported interceptions followed Iranian claims earlier on Thursday that its military had launched drones targeting the U.S.-used Al Azraq Air Base in Jordan. Iranian state media said the operation targeted military communications systems, radar installations and fuel storage facilities at the base.

Jordan has repeatedly said it will defend its sovereignty and airspace against any military activity that threatens its security, regardless of the parties involved. The kingdom hosts U.S. military personnel and facilities and has increasingly faced security risks as regional hostilities have intensified.

The latest incident comes amid an escalating confrontation between Iran and the United States. In recent days, U.S. forces have conducted repeated strikes against Iranian military infrastructure, including air defense systems, radar installations, missile sites and drone facilities along Iran’s southern coast. Washington has said the operations are intended to reduce threats to international shipping and protect freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks that it says targeted U.S. military facilities and assets in Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait. Several of Tehran’s claims have not been independently verified, and U.S. officials have not confirmed the reported attacks or their impact.

Neither the Jordanian government nor the U.S. military immediately commented on the reported interception of the eight missiles beyond the military source cited by Al Jazeera.

The exchange of military action has heightened concerns that the conflict could spread further across the Middle East, increasing risks to civilian populations, regional security and international shipping routes.

The post Jordan Says It Intercepted Eight Iranian Missiles Fired Into Its Airspace appeared first on Khaama Press.

A U.S. federal judge has struck down four U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policies that delayed or subjected immigration benefit applications filed by nationals of Afghanistan and 38 other countries to heightened scrutiny, ruling that the agency exceeded its legal authority under federal administrative law.

The decision follows a ruling that also rejected the U.S. government’s request to pause the judgment while it pursues an appeal. According to AfghanEvac on 15 July, USCIS has already resumed processing immigration benefit applications that had been placed on hold under the now-vacated policies.

The ruling, issued under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), found that USCIS acted beyond the authority granted by Congress when it implemented policies that paused adjudications, suspended certain asylum decisions, required previously approved cases to undergo additional review, and instructed immigration officers to treat nationality from designated countries as a significant negative factor in discretionary decisions.

The court vacated four agency policies: the Benefits Hold Policy, which prevented final decisions on many immigration applications; the Global Asylum Hold Policy, which paused asylum and withholding-of-removal cases; the Comprehensive Re-Review Policy, which required previously approved applications to be reassessed; and the Country-Specific Factors Policy, which directed officers to weigh an applicant’s nationality negatively in discretionary immigration determinations.

The judge concluded that USCIS failed to provide an adequate legal basis for the policies and did not properly consider the reliance interests of applicants who had already completed interviews, submitted biometric information and passed security screenings. The court found the agency’s actions to be arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act.

On July 15, the court also denied the government’s motion to stay the ruling pending appeal, finding that the administration had not demonstrated a likelihood of success on appeal or shown that allowing the decision to remain in effect would cause irreparable harm.

According to AfghanEvac, USCIS has already implemented the ruling nationwide and is treating the challenged policy guidance as no longer in effect. As a result, immigration benefit applications that had been frozen under the policies have resumed moving through the adjudication process.

The ruling is expected to have its greatest immediate impact on Afghan nationals and other affected applicants already residing in the United States with pending applications for adjustment of status, asylum-related benefits, employment authorization and naturalization.

However, the decision does not invalidate the presidential travel restrictions affecting Afghanistan and other countries. It also does not restart the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, resume Operation Enduring Welcome, reopen overseas visa processing, or affect Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) applications handled by U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

The court resolved the dispute solely on administrative law grounds and declined to issue a permanent injunction or rule on broader constitutional claims.

The Justice Department has appealed the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. While the challenged USCIS policies remain invalid, the government may still seek emergency relief from the appellate court as the litigation continues.

The post U.S. Judge Strikes Down Four USCIS Policies Delaying Afghan Immigration Cases appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance alleged that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein had connections to Israeli and U.S. intelligence agencies, while also accusing Israel of attempting to undermine U.S. negotiations with Iran, comments that have drawn renewed attention to longstanding speculation surrounding Epstein and Washington’s Middle East policy.

Speaking in an interview with podcast host Joe Rogan, Vance said Epstein was “obviously” connected to Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, as well as U.S. intelligence agencies. He did not provide evidence to support the allegation or identify which U.S. agencies he was referring to.

Epstein, a financier who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, has long been the subject of speculation because of his extensive ties to prominent political, business and social figures. However, official investigations have not publicly concluded that he worked for Mossad, the CIA or any other intelligence service.

During the interview, Vance also accused Israel of attempting to derail U.S. diplomatic engagement with Iran.

He alleged that the Israeli government had devoted significant resources to discrediting American officials involved in negotiations with Tehran, although he did not provide evidence to support the claim.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran following several days of military exchanges, including U.S. strikes on Iranian military targets and retaliatory Iranian attacks claimed by Tehran against U.S. military facilities in the region.

Vance’s comments quickly attracted attention across U.S. media and social media, where the Epstein case continues to generate intense public interest years after his death.

Epstein was accused of operating a large-scale sex trafficking network involving underage girls. His prosecution became one of the most high-profile criminal cases in the United States because of his associations with influential political leaders, business executives, celebrities and members of foreign royal families. His death in federal custody was officially ruled a suicide, although it has remained the subject of widespread public speculation.

Neither the Israeli government nor U.S. intelligence agencies had publicly responded to Vance’s allegations at the time of publication. The White House also had not issued additional clarification regarding the vice president’s remarks.

Vance’s comments are likely to intensify debate over both the Epstein investigation and U.S. policy toward Israel and Iran. However, no publicly available evidence has substantiated his claims regarding Epstein’s alleged intelligence ties.

The post JD Vance Says Epstein Appeared Connected to Israeli ‘Deep State,’ U.S. Intelligence appeared first on Khaama Press.

An anonymous bidder purchased the 67-million-year-old T. rex fossil “Gus” for a record $50.1 million at Sotheby’s New York auction Tuesday.

A rare and remarkably complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil has sold for a record $50.1 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York, becoming the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever auctioned and reigniting debate over whether scientifically important specimens should remain in private collections or be displayed in public museums.

A 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex fossil known as “Gus” sold for $50.1 million at Sotheby’s in New York, setting a new world record for the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold at auction, the auction house announced on Wednesday.

The fossil surpassed the previous record set in 2024, when an almost complete Stegosaurus skeleton sold for nearly $45 million at Sotheby’s. It also exceeded the $31.8 million paid for the famous T. rex skeleton “Stan” in 2020.

According to Sotheby’s, Gus is one of the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossils ever discovered. The mounted skeleton stands about 3.8 meters (12.5 feet) tall and stretches more than 11.5 meters (38 feet) long. Excavators recovered approximately 61 percent of the original skeleton, including an exceptionally well-preserved skull with powerful jaws and teeth, both hind legs, and several rare bones such as the furcula, or wishbone.

The fossil was discovered in 2021 on a ranch in South Dakota and was named after landowner Gary Leiking, who died during the nearly five-year excavation, conservation and mounting process.

Sotheby’s said the fossil was purchased by an anonymous bidder participating by telephone after a competitive 10-minute auction involving seven bidders. Before the sale, the specimen had been estimated to fetch between $20 million and $30 million.

Following the auction, Cassandra Hatton, Sotheby’s vice chairman for science and natural history, described Gus as an exceptional specimen whose excavation, documentation, conservation and preparation were carried out to the highest professional standards. She said the market continues to recognize the value of scientifically important fossils that have been carefully preserved.

The record-breaking sale has renewed concerns among paleontologists about the growing number of scientifically valuable fossils entering private collections. The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology said specimens of major scientific significance should remain accessible in museums and research institutions to ensure they are preserved, studied and available to future generations.

Christie Curry Rogers, the society’s president-elect, expressed hope that the anonymous buyer would recognize the fossil’s scientific and educational importance and eventually donate it to a reputable natural history museum. She said public access would allow researchers to continue studying the specimen while enabling millions of visitors to learn from one of the best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex fossils ever found.

Several high-profile dinosaur fossils sold at auction in recent years have ultimately entered museum collections. The record-breaking Stegosaurus known as “Apex” is currently on long-term loan to the American Museum of Natural History in New York, while “Stan” is now displayed at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.

The post Mystery Bidder Sets World Auction Record with Over $50 Million Purchase of ‘Gus’ T. Rex Fossil appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Wednesday that Tehran’s peace memorandum with the United States would remain valid only if all of its provisions were fully implemented, warning that Iran would have no reason to uphold the agreement if it did not benefit from its terms.

Speaking in remarks carried by Iranian state media, Ghalibaf said Iran’s commitment to the memorandum was conditional on reciprocal implementation, adding that Tehran would not remain bound by an agreement that, in his view, failed to protect the country’s interests.

Ghalibaf said Iran would continue to follow what he described as an “eye for an eye” approach in responding to actions by its adversaries. He also said Iran’s armed forces retained “full operational freedom” to respond to what he characterized as hostile attacks.

His comments came as tensions between Iran and the United States remained elevated following several days of military exchanges. The United States has carried out multiple rounds of strikes against Iranian military infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz and along Iran’s southern coast, saying the operations are intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and U.S. forces in the region.

Iran, meanwhile, has claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks against U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. Iranian officials have also said they targeted the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain and Al Azraq Air Base in Jordan. U.S. officials have not confirmed those claims or reported the extent of any damage.

Ghalibaf also asserted that Iran had maintained control over the Strait of Hormuz during what he described as a “40-day war” and said Iran’s security role in the strategic waterway was reflected in the fifth provision of the memorandum. He argued that control of the strait strengthens Tehran’s position in seeking implementation of the agreement’s other provisions.

The Iranian parliamentary speaker accused Washington of attempting to weaken Iran’s regional position through military pressure and alleged that the United States seeks to undermine Iran’s political system and territorial integrity. U.S. officials have consistently rejected similar accusations.

While saying Iran does not seek war, Ghalibaf said the country must remain prepared to respond militarily while continuing diplomatic engagement when it serves national interests. He added that strengthening Iran’s domestic capabilities remains the country’s most effective long-term strategy.

The latest remarks reflect continuing tensions between Tehran and Washington as both sides combine military operations with diplomatic messaging, despite the existence of the peace memorandum intended to reduce the risk of a broader regional conflict.

The post Iran Parliament Speaker Says U.S. Peace Memorandum Depends on Full Implementation appeared first on Khaama Press.

Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, advancing to the final against Spain and moving within one victory of retaining the world title.

England took an early lead and looked on course to reach its first World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966. Argentina responded with a dominant second-half performance, scoring twice after the break to complete the comeback and secure victory.

The defending champions controlled much of the second half, creating sustained pressure before overturning the deficit. They then withstood England’s late attempts to force extra time and booked their place in Sunday’s final.

The victory sends Argentina into a second consecutive World Cup final after lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022. A win over Spain would make Argentina the first nation to retain the men’s FIFA World Cup since Brazil achieved the feat in 1962.

Spain secured the other place in the final by defeating France 2-0 in Tuesday’s semifinal. The title match will feature two unbeaten teams that have produced consistent performances throughout the tournament.

England’s defeat extends its wait for a second World Cup title. Its only triumph came on home soil in 1966, and the team will now face France in Saturday’s third-place playoff.

Captain Lionel Messi again played a central role in Argentina’s run to the final and remains on course to win a second consecutive World Cup title. Another victory would further strengthen Argentina’s standing among the most successful nations in World Cup history.

The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will be played on Sunday, July 19, while England and France will meet a day earlier in the third-place playoff.

The post Argentina Rally Past England 2-1 to Reach 2026 World Cup Final appeared first on Khaama Press.

The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday rejected an amendment that would have blocked approximately $3.3 billion in annual military aid to Israel, reaffirming broad congressional support for the country’s security despite growing divisions over the war in Gaza.

The amendment was defeated by a vote of 314 to 104. It was introduced by Republican Representative Thomas Massie and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna.

According to the House vote, 103 Democratic lawmakers supported the proposal, reflecting a widening debate within the Democratic Party over continued U.S. military assistance to Israel.

The amendment sought to suspend the annual military assistance the United States provides to Israel, which helps fund defense cooperation, advanced weapons procurement and missile defense systems, including the Iron Dome.

Lawmakers opposing the measure argued that halting military assistance would weaken Israel’s ability to respond to regional security threats and undermine long-standing U.S. strategic interests in the Middle East.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposed the amendment while allowing members of his caucus to vote according to their own judgment. He argued that U.S. assistance supports Israel’s security and broader American interests in the region.

Supporters of the amendment said future U.S. military aid should be conditioned on Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law and stronger efforts to protect civilians during military operations in Gaza.

The vote comes as debate in Washington over U.S. policy toward the Israel-Hamas war continues to intensify. Progressive Democrats have increasingly questioned whether military assistance should be subject to additional oversight or restrictions in light of the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Supporters of continued aid, including lawmakers from both major parties, argue that Israel continues to face security threats from Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran, and that maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge remains a longstanding objective of U.S. foreign policy.

Although the amendment failed by a wide margin, the vote highlighted a growing bloc of Democratic lawmakers willing to challenge unconditional military assistance to Israel. The issue is expected to remain part of future congressional debates over defense appropriations and U.S. foreign assistance.

The post U.S. House Rejects Bid to Block $3.3 Billion in Military Aid to Israel appeared first on Khaama Press.

A court in Nepal has sentenced two former cabinet ministers and 14 others over a scheme that used forged documents to falsely identify Nepali citizens as Bhutanese refugees in an effort to secure their resettlement in the United States and other Western countries.

The Kathmandu District Court sentenced former Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi to four years in prison after finding him guilty in the case. Former Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand was sentenced to two years in prison as an accomplice, according to the court’s ruling.

According to Reuters, 14 other defendants, including a former senior Home Ministry official and a former leader of the Bhutanese refugee community in Nepal, were also convicted and received prison sentences of up to four years.

Prosecutors said the network forged official documents to falsely portray Nepali citizens as Bhutanese refugees eligible for third-country resettlement. Investigators alleged that those involved accepted payments from applicants by promising relocation through international refugee resettlement programs.

The case, uncovered in 2023, exposed what prosecutors described as a large-scale fraud that exploited one of South Asia’s longest-running refugee situations.

More than 120,000 ethnic Nepalis were displaced from Bhutan in the early 1990s and lived for decades in refugee camps in eastern Nepal. Under an international resettlement program, nearly 113,000 Bhutanese refugees have since been resettled in countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and several European nations.

Lawyers representing Rayamajhi and Khand rejected the verdict, maintaining that both former ministers are innocent. They said the convictions would be appealed before a higher court.

The case has become one of Nepal’s most prominent corruption scandals in recent years, raising concerns about abuse of public office and weaknesses in refugee documentation and immigration oversight.

The convictions come as Nepal faces increasing public pressure to strengthen anti-corruption efforts. Authorities have pledged greater accountability for senior officials, while prosecutors have described the refugee fraud case as a significant test of the country’s judicial system.

The post Nepal Jails Two Former Ministers in Fake Bhutanese Refugee Scam appeared first on Khaama Press.

Britain has summoned Iran’s chargé d’affaires in London after accusing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Quds Force of directing a proxy group allegedly responsible for attacks across Europe, further escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

The UK Foreign Office said on Tuesday that Iranian chargé d’affaires Ali Nasimfar was called in at the direction of Foreign Secretary David Lammy following allegations that the IRGC’s Quds Force had directed the Islamic Movement of As’hab al-Yamin to carry out a series of attacks across Europe between March and May.

According to the British government, the group has been linked to attacks targeting locations associated with Jewish and pro-Israel communities, as well as Persian-language media organizations operating in the United Kingdom.

The UK also announced sanctions against the group under its national security powers, saying the measures are intended to counter hostile activities allegedly conducted by foreign states through proxy organizations.

In a statement, the Foreign Office described the alleged activities as “completely unacceptable” and said Iran had failed to halt what Britain characterized as hostile operations despite repeated warnings. The government said the alleged actions posed a threat to the UK’s national security and that of its allies.

Iran’s embassy in London had not publicly responded to the summons at the time of publication. Tehran has repeatedly denied accusations that it directs proxy groups to conduct attacks abroad and has rejected similar allegations made by Western governments.

The diplomatic dispute follows Britain’s decision to designate the IRGC and an affiliated organization under expanded powers introduced through the UK’s State Threats framework, enabling authorities to impose sanctions and restrictions on entities accused of acting on behalf of hostile foreign states.

On Monday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the British measures, describing them as unjustified, irresponsible and contrary to international law. Tehran argued that applying British national security legislation to an official branch of Iran’s armed forces violates the principles of state sovereignty and non-interference.

British authorities have also announced measures targeting sanctions evasion networks allegedly linked to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, whom they identified as the son of senior Iranian official Ali Shamkhani.

The latest diplomatic tensions come as conflict between Iran and the United States continues to intensify. Washington has carried out several consecutive rounds of strikes against Iranian military targets, saying the operations are intended to reduce threats to international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran, meanwhile, has claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on U.S. military facilities in the region.

The post UK Summons Iranian Diplomat Over Alleged IRGC-Linked Proxy Attacks appeared first on Khaama Press.

Companies from Afghanistan, Russia and Kazakhstan have signed trade agreements worth 446 million afghanis (approximately $7 million), covering construction materials, pharmaceuticals, food products and agricultural services, the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) said on Wednesday.

The agreements were concluded during a joint business meeting aimed at expanding commercial cooperation among the three countries, according to the chamber.

The ACCI said the deals include the supply of construction materials, medicines, food products and agricultural services. Business representatives also discussed investment opportunities, strengthening private-sector cooperation and expanding regional trade.

The chamber did not specify when the agreements will take effect or provide a breakdown of the value of individual contracts or the commitments made by each participating company.

The agreements come as Afghanistan seeks to strengthen economic ties with Russia and Central Asian countries while facing prolonged economic challenges and limited international engagement.

Russia has expanded economic cooperation with Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, maintaining trade in sectors including energy, transport and commerce despite not formally recognizing the Kabul administration.

Kazakhstan has also increased trade and economic engagement with Afghanistan in recent years, particularly through regional connectivity initiatives and exports of agricultural and industrial products.

According to Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, annual trade between Afghanistan and Russia reached approximately $538 million earlier this year. The ministry said Afghan exports totaled $4 million, while imports from Russia reached $534 million, reflecting a significant trade imbalance.

The post Afghanistan, Russia, Kazakhstan Sign $7 Million Trade Deals appeared first on Khaama Press.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Wednesday highlighted the importance of vocational skills training for young people in Afghanistan, saying practical education can help improve employment opportunities and support more resilient livelihoods amid the country’s prolonged humanitarian and economic crisis.

Marking World Youth Skills Day, UNICEF said equipping young people with professional and technical skills can help them build better futures despite the economic challenges facing the country.

In a post on X, the UN agency shared photographs from a tailoring training workshop supported by the European Union Delegation to Afghanistan, saying the initiative aims to provide young Afghans with marketable skills that can improve their chances of finding work and generating income.

“Skills can help young people build better futures,” UNICEF said, highlighting vocational training as an important tool for expanding opportunities and strengthening self-reliance.

Afghanistan continues to face high unemployment, widespread poverty and a fragile economy after years of conflict and declining international assistance. Humanitarian agencies have repeatedly warned that limited job opportunities, particularly for young people, remain one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges.

Women and girls face additional barriers to education, employment and vocational training. Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have imposed broad restrictions on girls’ secondary and higher education and limited women’s participation in many sectors of public life, reducing access to learning and livelihood opportunities.

UN agencies have consistently called for greater investment in education, vocational training and youth employment, arguing that expanding skills development is essential to reducing poverty, supporting economic recovery and improving long-term prospects for Afghanistan’s young population.

According to the United Nations, Afghanistan has one of the world’s youngest populations, with more than 60 percent of its citizens under the age of 25. International organizations say creating education and employment opportunities for young people will be critical to the country’s long-term stability and development.

UNICEF and its partners continue to support vocational training and livelihood programs across Afghanistan, despite operational and funding challenges, as part of broader efforts to strengthen resilience among vulnerable communities.

The post UNICEF Promotes Skills Training to Help Afghan Youth Build Better Futures appeared first on Khaama Press.

The UK government announced on Tuesday that it plans to extend overnight social media restrictions to 16- and 17-year-olds, expanding online safety measures beyond younger children as part of efforts to reduce excessive screen time and protect teenagers from harmful digital content.

Under the proposed measures, social media platforms will introduce a default overnight curfew for users aged 16 and 17, limiting access between midnight and 6 a.m. The settings are intended to help reduce compulsive social media use and encourage healthier online habits among teenagers.

The government said the policy builds on protections already introduced for younger users and reflects growing concerns about the impact of excessive social media use on young people’s mental health, wellbeing and sleep.

Officials also said platforms will be required to disable addictive features, including infinite scrolling, by default for affected users. Additional safeguards will include prompts encouraging users under 18 to take regular breaks when interacting with artificial intelligence chatbots.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said stronger online protections should continue as teenagers gain greater independence.

“Even as young people become more independent at the age of 16, they should be protected from addictive features that can negatively affect their mental health,” Kendall said in a government statement.

The measures form part of the UK’s broader online safety strategy, which seeks to reduce children’s exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, online exploitation and platform designs intended to maximize user engagement.

Mental health organizations and child protection groups have repeatedly warned that prolonged social media use can contribute to anxiety, depression, sleep disruption and reduced wellbeing among adolescents. Researchers have also raised concerns about addictive platform features that encourage excessive screen time.

The United Kingdom joins a growing number of countries tightening regulations on children’s use of social media. Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia have introduced or proposed measures aimed at strengthening online protections for young users.

Governments worldwide have increasingly sought to regulate social media platforms amid mounting evidence linking excessive online activity to adverse mental health outcomes among children and teenagers. Several countries are considering additional restrictions as policymakers seek to balance online access with child safety.

The post UK to Extend Overnight Social Media Curfew to 16- and 17-Year-Olds appeared first on Khaama Press.

U.S. President Donald Trump convened a meeting of senior national security officials in the White House Situation Room on Tuesday to discuss options for expanding the U.S. military campaign against Iran, Axios reported, as American forces carried out a fourth consecutive day of strikes and tensions continued to escalate across the Gulf.

Axios, citing three people familiar with the discussions, reported that Trump and his national security team reviewed plans for a broader offensive that would extend beyond current operations near the Strait of Hormuz. According to the report, the administration is seeking to increase pressure on Tehran to reopen the strategic waterway and accept U.S. demands related to its nuclear program.

Axios said participants included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, White House envoy Steve Witkoff and other senior national security officials.

The reported discussions came as U.S. forces continued strikes against Iranian military infrastructure for a fourth straight day. U.S. military officials said the operations targeted air defense systems, coastal radar installations, anti-ship missile sites and drone launch facilities along Iran’s southern coast. Washington says the campaign is intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has continued to announce retaliatory operations across the region. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed missile and drone attacks on U.S.-linked military facilities in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, including the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters and Azraq Air Base in Jordan. U.S. and regional officials have not confirmed those claims, which remain independently unverified.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said naval forces have escorted about 300 commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz during the past week despite the escalating conflict. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper accused Iran of attacking commercial shipping, saying seven civilian vessels had been targeted during the same period, resulting in deaths, injuries and missing crew members.

Before the reported Situation Room meeting, Trump told Fox News that U.S. military operations could intensify unless Iran agreed to negotiations.

“We told them they should make a deal,” Trump said. “Otherwise, there won’t be much left.”

Axios also reported that officials discussed intelligence concerning the underground Kolang Gazla mountain complex, which U.S. and Israeli officials suspect may be connected to Iran’s nuclear program. Trump said the site remained under close surveillance and suggested bunker-buster bombs could be considered if military action became necessary, while acknowledging uncertainty about activity at the facility.

The latest developments mark a further escalation in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran. The United States has expanded military operations following attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks it says target U.S. military assets across the region.

The Strait of Hormuz carries about one-fifth of global seaborne oil exports, making continued military escalation a significant concern for international energy markets and maritime security. Diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions have so far failed to halt the exchange of attacks.

The post Trump Holds Situation Room Meeting on Expanded Iran Strike Plans appeared first on Khaama Press.

The United States has imposed sanctions on several cryptocurrency wallets linked to Iran’s central bank, blocking more than $130 million in digital assets as Washington expands financial pressure on Tehran amid escalating military tensions between the two countries.

The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced on Tuesday, July 14, that it had designated multiple digital wallets associated with the Central Bank of Iran, freezing more than $130 million in assets. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the sanctions are intended to disrupt what Washington describes as Iran’s illicit financial networks and its use of digital assets to evade international sanctions.

“The Treasury Department will continue pursuing Iran’s financial networks and prevent the regime from accessing revenues generated through illegal activities,” Bessent said. He added that the United States remains committed to targeting financial channels that support the Iranian government.

The latest sanctions come as tensions between Washington and Tehran have intensified following three consecutive nights of U.S. military strikes on Iranian military infrastructure. The U.S. military has said the operations targeted air defense systems, missile and drone facilities, and naval assets to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has responded with a series of retaliatory claims. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had carried out missile strikes against U.S. military facilities in the region, including the Al Azraq Air Base in Jordan, where it claimed to have targeted hangars housing U.S. F-15, F-16 and F-35 fighter aircraft and destroyed several MQ-9 drones. U.S. officials have not confirmed those claims.

The exchange of military action and economic measures has further heightened concerns about a broader regional conflict, while financial sanctions remain a central pillar of Washington’s strategy to increase pressure on Tehran.

The post U.S. Sanctions Iran Central Bank Digital Wallets, Blocks More Than $130 Million appeared first on Khaama Press.

France captain Kylian Mbappé accepted responsibility for his side’s 2-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal, admitting Les Bleus failed to execute their tactical plan and deserved to be eliminated after falling short against the tournament favorites.

France captain Kylian Mbappé accepted responsibility for his team’s 2-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal on Tuesday, acknowledging that Les Bleus failed to carry out their tactical plan and did not deserve a place in the final.

Speaking after France’s elimination, Mbappé said the team’s strategy had been to press Spain aggressively and disrupt its possession-based game but admitted the players failed to execute the plan.

“We wanted to press them man-to-man and stop them from controlling the game,” Mbappé said. “But we gave Spain’s midfield too much space, and they had the quality to take advantage of it.”

Spain took the lead through Mikel Oyarzabal’s first-half penalty before Pedro Porro doubled the advantage after the break, securing a 2-0 victory and a place in Sunday’s World Cup final.

“When you can’t disrupt Spain’s game, it becomes very difficult,” Mbappé said. “The penalty allowed them to take control, then they scored a second goal. We simply weren’t good enough to reach the final.”

The France captain said he accepted responsibility for the defeat and acknowledged the disappointment of falling short of another World Cup final.

“When you win, you receive the praise. When you lose, you have to accept responsibility,” he said. “That’s football. As captain, I take full responsibility. We wanted to reach the final, but we failed, and we have to accept the criticism.”

Mbappé also paid tribute to head coach Didier Deschamps, whose final match in charge of France will be Saturday’s third-place playoff after announcing he will step down following the tournament.

“Nothing changes about Didier’s place in this team or in French football,” Mbappé said. “He deserves our best performance. We owe it to him and to our supporters to finish the tournament by winning third place.”

France will face the loser of the Argentina-England semifinal in Saturday’s third-place playoff, while Spain advanced to the World Cup final after extending its unbeaten run to 37 matches.

The post Mbappé Accepts Responsibility After France’s World Cup Semifinal Exit appeared first on Khaama Press.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Wednesday that it launched a ballistic missile strike on the U.S.-used Al Azraq Air Base in Jordan, alleging it targeted American fighter jet hangars and MQ-9 Reaper drones in retaliation for ongoing U.S. military strikes inside Iran.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Wednesday that it carried out a ballistic missile attack on the U.S.-used Azraq Air Base in Jordan, alleging it struck facilities supporting American military operations against Iran.

In a statement published by Iran’s state-affiliated Fars News Agency, the IRGC said the strike targeted hangars housing U.S. F-15, F-16 and F-35 fighter aircraft, as well as infrastructure linked to American air operations. The group also claimed the attack destroyed several MQ-9 Reaper drones stationed at the base.

The IRGC said the operation was launched in retaliation for continued U.S. military strikes on Iranian territory and accused Washington of using Jordanian bases to support attacks against Iran.

The statement also called on Jordanians to oppose the presence of U.S. military forces in the country, alleging American bases have become launch points for operations targeting Iran.

Neither the United States nor Jordanian authorities had confirmed the reported strike or the alleged damage at the time of publication.

The reported attack marks the latest escalation in the rapidly expanding confrontation between Tehran and Washington. In recent days, Iran has claimed responsibility for attacks on several U.S.-linked military facilities across the region, including the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain.

The developments come after U.S. forces conducted a third consecutive night of strikes against Iranian military infrastructure, targeting missile and drone facilities, air defense systems, naval assets and coastal radar sites. Washington says the operations are intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten U.S. forces and international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

With both sides continuing military operations despite earlier diplomatic efforts to ease tensions, analysts warn that the conflict risks expanding across the Middle East, increasing pressure on regional security and global energy markets.

The post IRGC Claims Missile Strike on U.S. Fighter Jet Hangars at Jordan’s Al Azraq Air Base appeared first on Khaama Press.

Spain booked its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France on Tuesday, ending the defending runners-up’s bid for a third straight final and extending La Roja’s unbeaten run to 37 matches.

Spain became the first team to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after defeating France 2-0 in Tuesday’s semifinal, producing another composed display to move within one victory of a second world title.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the box by Lucas Digne. Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s lead in the 58th minute with a well-worked finish, sealing a deserved victory at AT&T Stadium.

The defeat ended France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final after appearances in 2018 and 2022. Didier Deschamps’ side also fell behind for the first time in the tournament and struggled to break down Spain’s disciplined defense.

France suffered an early setback when central defender William Saliba left the match injured in the 30th minute, forcing a defensive reshuffle. The French created few clear opportunities, with goalkeeper Unai Simón preserving Spain’s clean sheet through another assured performance.

Simón recorded his sixth clean sheet of the tournament, becoming the first goalkeeper in men’s World Cup history to achieve that milestone in a single edition of the competition. Spain has conceded just one goal throughout the tournament, underlining its defensive dominance.

The victory extended Spain’s unbeaten streak to 37 matches, 30 wins and seven draws matching Italy’s longest unbeaten run by a European national team. Oyarzabal’s fifth goal of the tournament also strengthened his position among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.

Spain, which won its only World Cup title in South Africa in 2010, will face either Argentina or England in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. France will play the third-place playoff on Saturday.

The post Spain Beat France 2-0 to Reach 2026 FIFA World Cup Final appeared first on Khaama Press.