Brooke George, of Kent, England, claims she stabbed the man in self-defence during a violent domestic dispute.

The advocacy organisation Detained in Dubai stated that George was arrested on June 22. The group alleges her partner had become abusive, punched her, withheld her passport and attacked her in their apartment.

She feared for her life and, reaching for a kitchen knife within her grasp, acted in self-defence,” Detained in Dubai CEO Radha Stirling said, according to the BBC.

George, a former John Lewis employee, was taken into custody early June 22 and charged with premeditated murder. If found guilty under United Arab Emirates law, she could face the death penalty.

George’s mother, The­reza George, told the BBC her daughter was “absolutely terrified” and had a visibly swollen eye when they spoke immediately after the incident. She added she firmly believes her daughter was desperat­ely trying to escape whatever had happened to her.

Stirling raised concerns that George might have been lured to the United Arab Emirates for exploitation, noting the boyfriend’s unexplained behaviour changes, a one-way ticket and the withholding of her travel documents. The advocacy group also reported that George was denied embassy access, forced to make statements without legal counsel present and subjected to a humiliating strip search by male officers.

The UK Foreign, Comm­onwealth and Devel­opment Office told the BBC it is supporting a detained British woman and her family while remaining in contact with local authorities.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

WASHINGTON / TEHRAN: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned on Thursday that Washington wanted a lasting deal with Iran but not “at any price”, as disputes over the Strait of Hormuz, possible transit fees and authorised shipping routes threatened to complicate negotiations between the two sides.

Rubio was in Bahrain as part of a regional tour of Gulf partners hit hard by Iran during the Middle East war, which began on Feb 28 with a massive US-Israeli campaign of strikes against Iran.

The United States and Iran have signed a preliminary deal to end the conflict and have embarked on negotiations expected to touch on thorny issues, including Tehran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and global energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Gulf states and Israel have long voiced concerns about Iran’s support for proxies in the region and its missile programme, but it remains unclear whether these issues will be addressed in the negotiations.

“While we want a deal, we don’t want a deal at any price,” Rubio told a Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Bahrain.

“We want to ensure… that there is no part of this deal that’s undertaken that in any way undermines the security, the stability, or the prosperity of any of our partners in the Gulf region,” he said.

Hormuz toll row

Rubio also sought to reassure the energy-rich Gulf states that the Strait of Hormuz, which they have relied on for decades to export oil and liquefied natural gas, would remain toll-free.

Iran imposed a blockade of Hormuz during the war as part of its retaliation against the US-Israeli campaign, sparking a global economic shock.

It has since said it plans to introduce what it terms maritime service fees, while the United States and its allies have rejected the introduction of fees or tolls, arguing that Hormuz should be considered an international waterway and therefore not subject to charges.

“International waterways do not belong to any nation state. This is a foundational principle in the world today, without which the world would be in total chaos,” Rubio told the GCC meeting.

“If in fact we accepted that you can charge money to use an international waterway because it happens to be near your territorial space, well then this will spread throughout the world like a contagion,” he added.

Rubio said there was “zero support” among Gulf countries for Hormuz tolls.

“I mean, ultimately there’s not going to be any fees or tolls. They [Oman] were there in the meeting today and they said that they are not in favour of the tolling system,” he said.

At Thursday’s Gulf meeting with Rubio, Oman’s top diplomat Badr Albusaidi said future arrangements regarding the strait “do not entail the imposition of any transit fees”, despite his government and Iran saying earlier that they were studying costs to be charged for services provided in the strait.

On Wednesday, Oman released a map of a new temporary shipping route running close to its coast. It said the path through the strait was coordinated with the International Maritime Organisation, a UN agency responsible for marine safety.

Iran later appeared to denounce the new corridor in a statement by the Revolutionary Guards, but did not refer to Oman specifically.

Iran warns ships

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Thursday warned against any crossings of the Strait of Hormuz without authorisation, saying vessels not complying “will be dealt with”.

“The only authorised route for passage through the Strait of Hormuz is the route announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran,” said the Guards.

Any crossing without authorisation was “unacceptable and extre­mely dangerous”, they warned in a statement.

They also denounced what they said was a new route through the waterway announced by “certain authorities”. The statement did not elaborate, but it appeared to be a response to Oman’s announcement of a temporary corridor.

The only route currently authorised by Iran runs through a corridor that follows the Iranian coast.

The foreign ministers of Iran and Oman also stressed the need for continued bilateral coordination on maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz during a phone call on Thursday, Iranian state media reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his Omani counterpart Badr Albusaidi discussed recent regional developments, including maritime arrangements in the strait and temporary measures set for a 60-day period, according to a statement on Araghchi’s Telegram account.

The two sides also welcomed recent talks held in Muscat and agreed to continue diplomatic consultations and technical coordination on issues of mutual interest.

Shipping risks

Meanwhile, the evacuation of around 11,000 mariners stranded by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz was suspended on Thursday after an attack on a vessel in the Gulf of Oman, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) said.

The UN’s maritime agency said earlier this week it would begin evacuating 600 ships and their crews that were trapped by the US-Iran war, after Washington and Tehran agreed a preliminary deal to end the conflict.

But a cargo ship was damaged by an unknown projectile off the Omani coast in the strategic strait on Thursday, prompting the IMO to halt the operation.

Traffic through the strait has increased sharply but remains at roughly half its peacetime level, officials said on Thursday as stranded sailors made their way out of the waterway.

Seventy confirmed crossings were recorded on Wednesday, according to analytics firm Kpler, marking the highest number of vessels in a day since Iran shut the Strait of Hormuz on March 1 in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes.

Iran hits back at Nato

Iran has emerged emboldened from the war, vowing not to relinquish control of Hormuz and calling its initial deal with Washington to stop the fighting “a declaration of America’s defeat”.

President Trump met Nato chief Mark Rutte at the White House on Wednesday and said the United States was “doing great” in the negotiations.

Trump also asked Congress for nearly $88bn in supplemental funding, mostly to cover the cost of the war, just a day after Congress called on him to end the conflict unless lawmakers explicitly authorised further military action.

Iran slammed Nato on Thursday after Rutte noted its support for the US, with foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei accusing the transatlantic bloc of “complicity” in an “unlawful war”.

Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also rejected US claims that Iran would spend its unfrozen assets to buy US agricultural products.

“The US only exports GMO soya beans, broken promises and trash talks,” Ghalibaf said in a post on X.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed Trump on Wednesday and insisted that a large percentage of Iran’s unfrozen assets would be used to buy US foods and medicine, even as Iran says it would determine its spending.

Gulf concerns

The Gulf’s top diplomats said on Thursday that dealing with Iran’s proxies and missiles was key to lasting peace and that any trade and investment with Tehran would be reversible and contingent on it respecting its deal with the US.

“The ministers further emphasised that lasting regional peace and security requires addressing the full spectrum of Iran’s threats, including its ballistic missiles, drones, and support of proxies in the region,” they said in a joint statement.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

ISLAMABAD: The PPP said on Thursday that the next local government elections in Sindh would be held in 2027, amid a fresh war of words that has erupted between the party and its main ruling coalition partner — the PML-N — over the local government system in the country.

“By the grace of Allah Almighty, local government elections will be held for the third time in Sindh in 2027,” senior PPP leader Senator Waqar Mehdi said in a statement issued in response to a recent statement by PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique.

In a post on X, Rafique had criticised PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s demand for local government elections in Punjab and the federal capital, saying such polls should not be held on the pattern followed in Sindh.

He said it was Mr Bhutto-Zardari’s rightful demand that LG polls be held soon in Punjab and Islamabad, but not on the pattern of Karachi elections.

“If anyone wants further details about it, they can ask (MQM leader) Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and (Jamaat-i-Islami chief) Hafiz Naeemur Rehman,” he added.

Senator Mehdi said the PPP had already conducted local government polls in Sindh twice in the past.

“PPP has just asked for local government elections in Punjab and the Centre, but you started crying. Don’t be scared and conduct LG polls. Whoever is popular among the people will win,” he said, addressing Rafique.

He said the local government system was successfully delivering in Sindh. “If you have any better plan, come up with it,” he added.

On Wednesday, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, while speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, had challenged the ruling PML-N to hold local government elections in Islamabad and Lahore within 90 days.

He criticised the PML-N over the delay in holding LG polls in Punjab and Islamabad and accused it of attempting to create differences between the PPP and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan on the issue.

Mr Bhutto-Zardari said local governments were functioning in provinces under PPP rule, whereas the PML-N was afraid of having local governments in Punjab and Islamabad.

“They are not even ready to hold a single union council election. I say introduce the same kind of local government system in Lahore that we have in Karachi. Let’s contest the polls,” he said, adding: “I challenge you to hold local government elections in Islamabad within 90 days.”

Mr Bhutto-Zardari ask­ed the PML-N to show the provinces what powers and financial resources it wan­ted to give to local government representatives so that the provinces could follow them as a role model.

Stating that the PPP had the credit of giving the 1973 Constitution to the country, he announced that his party would hold local government polls in Gilgit-Baltistan within 90 days.

Meanwhile, Sindh Senior Minister and Information, Transport and Mass Transit Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon also reacted to Rafique’s statement, saying the PML-N leader should first hold local government elections in Punjab and give the people of the province their constitutional rights before lecturing other provinces on democratic systems.

In a statement, Memon said that before raising questions about Karachi’s local government system, Rafique should explain to the people why local government elections had not been held in Punjab.

He said it was surprising that the PML-N, which was reluctant to conduct local government elections in Punjab, was criticising the “democratic process” and local government system in Karachi.

The senior minister said if local government elections were truly the foundation of democracy, then the people of Punjab should also be given their constitutional right, as the PPP government in Sindh had already provided people with their democratic rights.

He claimed that local government elections in Karachi were held in accordance with the Constitution and the law, and that the people elected their representatives and the democratic process was completed. Instead of objecting to the people’s decision, Rafique should respect democratic traditions, he added.

Memon insisted that the PPP believed in democratic institutions, an empowered local government system and respect for the public mandate. He said politics based on double standards could not continue for long before the people.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

He made the remarks while speaking to the media on the eve of the 983rd annual cleansing (Ghusal) ceremony of the shrine of Hazrat Ali Haj­veri, popularly known as Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh, here on Thursday.

He said Pakistan was emerging as a global symbol of peace and stability, having successfully sha­ken off diplomatic isolati­on through mediation and reconciliation efforts in recent regional conflicts.

“Pakistan’s foreign policy has successfully stee­red the country out of diplomatic isolation, presenting it as an influential and responsible state,” he added. He highlighted Pakistan’s constructive role as a mediator in helping ease recent regional tensions, particularly by preventing escalation between the US and Iran.

“Pakistan has become a peacemaker. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the relentless efforts of Field Mar­shal Asim Munir, Pakistan worked tirelessly to ensure regional peace. Today, the world knows Pakistan as a torchbearer of peace,” Mr Dar said.

“Even those countries that did not know Pakistan before now know Pakistan,” he added.

He said Pakistan was now viewed as a “middle power” with an active diplomatic role on the global stage.

Stern warning

He also issued a stern warning to adversaries, saying: “We are a peace-loving country, and those who dreamed of isolating Pakistan have faced humiliation. However, as a responsible nuclear power, if anyone looks at Pakistan with malicious intent, we will give a fitting response.”

Reflecting on the country’s journey, Mr Dar said Allah Almighty had blessed Pakistan with nuclear capability, followed by remarkable advancements in its missile programme.

‘Economic power’

He stressed that the next crucial milestone was transforming Pakis­tan into a robust economic power.

He recalled that in 2017, Pakistan’s economic growth had stunned the world, propelling the country to the 24th position in global economic rankings.

“This was the same country which, from 2013 to 2017, had its voice heard across the world. All macroeconomic indicators had improved. The growth trajectory was such that even Europe used to appreciate it. Foreign investment had reached its peak,” he said.

“Pakistan, which had become the 24th largest economy in the world, then fell to the 47th spot in the next four years,” he added.

Mr Dar said efforts were now underway by the current government to reverse that decline.

“Pakistan is now moving towards gro­wth, development and public welfare,” he said.

Referring to the federal budget, he said the government had inherited difficult economic conditions.

“As you have seen in this budget, we were virtually in a state of economic crisis. What we inherited under PM Shehbaz’s leadership was damaged, and when something is damaged, it takes time to be repaired,” he said.

He added that the economic setback over the past four years had required sustained corrective measures.

“That four-year gap caused destruction, and it naturally takes time to fix. But matters are now moving in a positive direction,” he said.

“We now have to become an economic power. For this, PM Shehbaz Sharif is working day and night,” he added.

Mr Dar also announced that the largest expansion project in Data Darbar’s history was currently underway.

He credited Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif with championing the project.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) police chief on Thursday warned citizens at home and abroad against falling prey to disinformation and AI-generated content, urging them to rely on official sources for information amid what he described as a “hybrid warfare” environment.

Addressing a press conference, Inspector General of Police retired Captain Liaqat Ali Malik said all entry points into AJK remained open to all types of traffic, including vehicles carrying essential commodities, and rejected reports suggesting otherwise.

He urged overseas Pakis­tanis, particularly members of the Kashmiri diaspora in the UK and Europe, to verify information through authentic government media and social media platforms.

“All major entry points into the territory, including Kohala, Azad Pattan and Bararkot, are open to all types of traffic without any intervention, except routine security checks that fall under police protocols,” he said.

IGP Malik claimed that activists of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Com­mittee (JAAC) had erected barriers at some locations and attacked or seized goods-laden trucks, adding that law enforcement agencies were regularly clearing roads and facilitating commuters.

The IGP recalled that both he and Chief Secretary Khushal Khan had clarified during a press conference on June 23 that police were not obstructing any traffic entering AJK, including trucks carrying essential goods and public transport vehicles.

He also said the government’s position had been disseminated through the Public Information Dep­artment’s official fact-checking platform on X, and urged citizens to follow official government accounts for authentic information.

The press conference came amid a mixed response to the ongoing strike called by the proscribed JAAC, during which internet services remained suspended and petrol stations remained closed under government orders.

Witnesses said a partial shutdown was observed across the Muzaffarabad and Poonch divisions, while life remained largely normal in the Mirpur division.

In Muzaffarabad, long queues were seen outside the only petrol station allowed to sell fuel in limited quantities. People carrying plastic bottles and small cans waited to purchase fuel for motorcycles and generators.

Govt steps up action

Meanwhile, the government stepped up action against employees accused of participating in or facilitating sit-ins organised by the proscribed outfit.

According to official notifications, three employees of the electricity department, eight teachers, a laboratory assistant and two peons from the education department, as well as two workers of a medical college, were suspended for allegedly engaging in activities deemed incompatible with government service rules.

Official sources said the government was determined to proceed against employees found supporting those challenging the writ of the state and warned that further disciplinary action, including dismissal from service, could follow.

Late on Thursday night, the JAAC announced that it would continue its protest campaign through what it described as peaceful sit-ins, dispelling speculation that it might launch a long march.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

ISLAMABAD: The government on Thursday decided to deploy a sovereign, secure and ‘below-internet’ mobile communication network for at least 10,000 government users to address gaps that are causing critical information leakages, as it cleared a total of 24 development projects worth Rs465.76bn.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Central Development Working Party (CDWP), which also supported the launch of the Pakistan Communication Satellite–2 (PakSat-2) at an estimated cost of Rs37.192 billion, to replace PakSat-IR, which is set to complete its 15-year life later this year.

Sources said the Planning Commission was not satisfied with the technical strengths of the Rs709 million ‘PAKAWAZ Secure Mobile Communication Ecosystem’, which aimed to put in place a secure communication mobile application which could support video & audio calls, voice & video messages, file & photo sharing and centrally managed contact lists and text & group messaging besides application servers, mobile handsets, kill switch controls and so on.

However, the National Telecommunication Company (NTC), which had come up with the project, was asked to hold further consultations with stakeholders and finalise an unbreakable security system of maximum integrity to ensure confidentiality, integrity, availability, and national data sovereignty.

The project is designed to conform to national security requirements by providing an isolated “private 4G LTE Core Network” that is physically or logically air-gapped from the public internet to address shortcoming, identified after the recent war with India, and subsequent lessons learnt from other events across the Middle East.

15 uplift projects

The meeting of the CDWP, chaired by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, also approved 15 development projects with a combined estimated cost of Rs34.7bn and recommended for approval another nine projects worth Rs431.022bn by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec).

The “CDWP accorded in-principle approval to nine development projects across different sectors with a cumulative estimated cost of Rs431.022 billion and recommended them to Ecnec”, an official statement said.

These included in the IT sector project ‘Esta­blishment of Emerging Technologies Data Centre’ worth Rs7.93bn to to provide secure, sovereign, and government-owned Arti­ficial Intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing infrastructure for Pakistan.

The facility will support artificial intelligence, cloud computing, big data analytics, and digital services for government institutions, academia, research organisations, and the private sector.

The project will stren­gthen data security and digital sovereignty, reduce reliance on foreign cloud providers, support indigenous AI solutions, and promote innovation, capacity building, and growth of the digital economy.

Another IT project, ‘National Artificial Intelligence Ecosystem Development Programme (NAIEDP)’ was approved in principle at an estimated cost of Rs13bn to get conducted a comprehensive feasibility study through a specialised consultancy firm to assess the AI ecosystem, stakeholder landscape, technical and infrastructure requirements, financial and market viability, legal and governance frameworks, and risk mitigation measures.

The study will lead to the development of an upgraded and implementation-ready PC-I to support informed decision-making and successful execution of the project.

A third IT-sector project ‘Pakistan Commu­nication Satellite – 2 (PakSat-2)’ at a cost of Rs37.192bn was also recommended for approval by the Ecnec for development and deployment of a communication satellite in Geostationary Orbit (GEO) along with upgrading existing ground control and operations centres at Lahore and Karachi.

The project will enhance satellite command, control, tracking, and operational capabilities by utilising SUPARCO’s existing technical expertise and infrastructure. It was reported that besides these objectives, the satellite launch was critical to protect Pakistan’s satellite slot which could be lost forever if remained vacant for three years.

Four projects related to the Transport and Communications sector were also cleared by the CDWP. These include “Construction of Lalamusa Bypass (N-5) ” worth Rs20.354bn and “Up-gradation of Track and Allied Infrastructure on ML-3 (Rohri–Sibi–Quetta–Koh-i-Taftan Section (996 Kms)” worth Rs278.62bn.

The ML-3 project is proposed to be financed thro­ugh PSDP, with interim funding to be provided through bridge financing by Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) and the Government of Pakistan.

The project includes track renewal, rehabilitation of embankments and bridges, replacement of turnouts, and construction of 11 new railway stations between Spezand and Taftan.

The project will be implemented in two phases, with critical infrastructure works planned during Phase-I (2026–2030) and remaining priority works during Phase-II (2031–2033).

Another Transport and Communications sector project “Construction of Mashkel - Chedgi Road (108.5 Km) worth Rs43.647bn was also cleared for Ecnec approval. The project, proposed to be financed through 90pc through Saudi Development Fund and 10pc PSDP, includes construction of a 4.1-kilometre-long tunnel along with approach roads, bridges, culverts, slope protection works, retaining walls, erosion control works, and allied infrastructure facilities.

The “Construction of Rathoa Haryam Bridge Across Reservoir channel on Mirpur-Islamgarh Road, Mirpur AJ&K” and was cleared at an estimated cost of Rs10.867bn.

The CDWP also cleared ‘Acquisition of Land and Hiring of Consultancy Firms for Feasibility Study for Establishment of Special Protection Unit (SPU) in ICT Police Islamabad’ at an estimated cost of Rs9.42bn.

The project includes acquisition of 26.76-kanal (16,189.80-Square Yard) land and hiring of consultancy firms for feasibility study and detailed engineering design for establishment of the SPU in Sector H-11, Islamabad.

A power sector project of the Government of AJK ‘Strengthening & Imp­rovement of Elec­tricity Supply Network’ was also cleared at an estimated cost of Rs10bn. The proposed project focuses on reconductoring, load bifurcation, and upgradation of overloaded 11kV feeders to improve voltage profile, system reliability, and reduce power outages, installation of new and augmentation of existing transformers and creation of a repair workshop.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

CARACAS: Thousands of Venezuelans were feared dead on Thursday after two powerful earthquakes wreaked havoc in and around the capital Caracas, trapping people beneath the rubble of collapsed buildings and setting off powerful aftershocks.

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit about 160km west of Caracas on Wednesday afternoon, followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor, according to the US Geological Survey.

Emergency workers scrambled over the debris of collapsed buildings in Caracas as night fell, while distraught relatives sought help for loved ones feared trapped. Dazed survivors were taken away, some on stretchers.

“When we went downstairs, the scene was like a horror movie,” said Maria Alejandra, a resident from a nearby building, who did not give her surname.

“We had to climb over the rubble and everything. The building superintendent with the baby and all the neighbours coming down. But from that building, I only saw that one family got out.”

188 confirmed dead

National Assembly Presi­dent Jorge Rodriguez said at least 188 had perished in the disaster, with more than 1,520 others injured. He added that at least 250 buildings have been damaged or destroyed.

Declaring a state of emergency in the country, Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said the government was working with business to deploy heavy machinery to accelerate efforts to help those still trapped.

The worst-affected area was La Guaira state, near Caracas and home to the city’s airport. Witnesses’ footage showed scenes of panic as ceilings came down in the airport and rubble from destroyed buildings along the seafront.

“Dozens of buildings have collapsed, and we are currently carrying out very intense rescue efforts to save as many lives as God allows us to save,” Rodriguez said on state television just before 1am local time (0500 GMT) on Thursday. She added that there were about 30 aftershocks.

The USGS, using predictive modelling to estimate the death toll, said it would most likely run into the thousands, with a substantial probability of exceeding 10,000.

A website set up to track missing people by leaders from the country’s opposition, many of whom are outside Venezuela, listed more than 24,000 people as unaccounted for at 10.40am local time (1440 GMT).

Many Venezuelans were at home when the quakes struck during a public holiday.

“There was a very loud crash. Things fell in the house, jugs inside the refrigerator. I’ve never experienced anything like it,” said Coro Martinez, 56, who lives in eastern Caracas.

Rodriguez called for unity in Venezuela, where anti-government protests over annual inflation of more than 500 per cent have become more frequent since US President Donald Trump ordered the capture of President Nicolas Maduro in a violent raid in January.

Other cities and towns close to Caracas affected by the quake, including El Junquito and La Guaira, remained without power on Thursday morning, increasing the challenges.

Residents rush into streets

Residents across Caracas, where infrastructure was already crumbling due to lack of investment, ru­shed to evacuate as buildings shook.

“As soon as it started, we began hearing people screaming,” said Astrid Ramirez, a 41-year-old publicist in western Caracas.

“Everyone was running down the stairs.” Maria Romero, an 80-year-old pensioner in southern Caracas, said police helped her out of her home. “This earthquake was horrible, even worse than the one in 1967,” she said, referring to a magnitude 6.3 quake that the USGS said killed 240 people.

“La Guaira state is a true tragedy, and has become a disaster zone.” Houses collapsed near the quake’s epicenter in Morn, a small seaside town in the state of Carabobo, where there was no water or electricity.

Venezuela lies in a seismically active zone where the Caribbean Plate meets the South American Plate.

An estimated 30,000 people were killed when a quake caused widespread destruction in Merida and Caracas in 1812, according to the USGS.

Hospitals brace for the injured

At Caracas’ Hospital de Clinicas, staff were asked to double up on the night shift to help treat the injured, a worker there said.

Venezuela’s largest airport, in Maiquetia on the coast north of Caracas, was closed due to damages, Rodriguez said.

Classes were cancelled for the rest of the week as authorities began to take stock of the damage.

Venezuela’s oil infrastructure did not immediately appear to be affected by the tremors. Civil protection authorities in Maracaibo, near the large oil hub of Lake Maracaibo, said there were no injuries reported and a worker at the El Palito refinery near Morón — the epicentre of the earthquake — said there had been no damage there.

The quake was felt as far away as the Colombian capital of Bogota, where alarms sounded and some residents evacuated buildings as a precaution.

Freddy Tovar, coordinator of Colombia’s National Seismological Network, said authorities had received more than 200 reports of tremors nationwide.

Tremors were also reported in several cities in northern Brazil, according to the country’s seismic monitoring network.

The Pakistani leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressed grief over the loss of lives and devastation caused by earthquakes in Venezuela, offering condolences to the victims’ families, prayers for the injured, and support for those affected, according to state-run APP.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026

A first World Cup win for seven-times African champions Egypt, 92 years after their debut, put them in charge though Iran’s dogged performances in draws with Belgium and New Zealand means victory could also see them top Group ‘G’.

The match will, however, be overshadowed by global events as the US and Iran seek to negotiate a lasting peace to the war launched by US and Israeli stri­kes in February, which quickly spiralled into a regional conflict.

Iran has had to grapple with travel restrictions, which coach Amir Ghalenoei said made them the tournament’s “most oppre­ssed team”, though the US said this week that Iran would be allowed to travel two days before the game instead of one.

The tensions are made all the more acute by the fact that Iran winning the group potentially sets up a clash with the US on July 6 for a place in the quarter-finals.

Long before that, though, Team Melli must overcome Egypt, who are buoyed by how they came from behind to beat New Zealand and assume control of a group which Belgium had been heavy favourites to win.

Egypt know a point is likely enough to top the group, which could tempt them to fall back into their familiar defensive mode despite letting loose in the second half against New Zealand.

The opportunity is there, though, to secure a last-32 game in Seattle against a third-placed team on July 1, possibly followed by a last-16 tie in the city, with Egypt based in nearby Spokane.

Meanwhile, Belgium come into their final Group ‘G’ game against New Zealand on Friday knowing they have to hit the ground running after two underwhelming displays in their opening matches.

Belgium opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw with Egypt in which they created plenty of chances but struggled to get them on target.

The alarm bells really started ringing with Lukaku leading the line as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Iran when they had 23 chances, with seven on target, without scoring.

Tipped by most to finish top, Belgium go into their final group game against the Kiwis in third place with two points, trailing leaders Egypt, who have four, and Iran on two but are second on goal difference. New Zealand must win and hope Iran fail to beat Egypt if they are to qualify.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

HOUSTON: Saudi Ara­bia and Cape Verde will seek a win to earn a place in the World Cup round-of-32 when they clash on Friday, with the latter hoping to continue their run as one of the stories of the tournament and many fans’ second favourite team.

Fancied Spain head Gro­up ‘H’ with four points from two games, while their final opponents Uruguay have two. Cape Verde also have two points and Saudi Arabia one, meaning any of the four teams can still qualify for the next stage.

The African side are making their debut at the World Cup but have earned praise for a battling goalless draw with Spain and a more evenly-contested 2-2 result against Uruguay, where they showcased their never-say-die spirit.

The Saudis lost 4-0 to Spain in their last game but will fancy their chances and hope the Cape Verde­ans run out of steam in humid Houston.

Such has been the popularity of the latter at their Florida training base that they were joined on Wedn­esday by Tampa Bay Row­dies head coach Dominic Casciato for training and an exchange of jerseys.

There will certainly be many willing them to continue their journey into the next round.

Saudi Arabia have their own ambitions and their coach Georgios Donis, who took over in April, will hope for a much improved performance on their heavy defeat by Spain, which had followed a hard-earned 1-1 draw with Uruguay.

Meanwhile, Uruguay arrive at Friday’s meeting with Spain in urgent need of a first World Cup win after two draws turned a promising start into a precarious path to the knockout rounds.

Uruguay have created enough chances to suggest they should be in a stronger position, but defensive errors and missed opportunities have left them needing a sharp response in Guadalajara.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa accepted responsibility for the defensive lapses, but the urgency is shared across a squad whose final group game comes against a Spain team who arrive in Guadalajara in a very different mood.

After opening with a flat draw against Cape Verde, Luis de la Fuente’s European champions responded emphatically against Saudi Arabia in Atlanta, powered by the return of Lamine Yamal to the starting lineup. De la Fuente said it was “crazy” to question a Spain team unbeaten in 33 consecutive matches.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

Assured of a place in the round-of-32 after victories over Senegal and Iraq, France need only a draw to finish first thanks to their superior goal difference.

While the sporting benefits of topping the group are debatable, doing so would allow the 2018 champions to remain in Northeastern United States until the quarter-finals rather than embark on a cross-country journey through Dallas, Miami and Atlanta.

France are nevertheless expected to make changes.

Didier Deschamps, who returned home following the death of his mother, used all five substitutions during Monday’s 3-0 win over Iraq, a sign that squad management may take precedence with qualification already secured.

Longtime assistant coach Guy Stephan will oversee the team from the touchline in Boston. The equation facing France is an unusual one.

Finishing first would likely avoid an early collision with the likes of Brazil, England and Portugal while reducing travel, but it could place them on a path that could include Germany in the round-of-16 and European champions Spain in the semi-finals.

Norway coach Stale Solbakken said they would do all they can to help Erling Haaland claim the Golden Boot, with the striker on four goals, but he may be reluctant to risk his biggest stars with qualification guaranteed.

Whether or not Norway rotate, France will have to contend with one of the form teams of the tournament.

The path to knockouts is more difficult for Senegal as successive defeats have them teetering on the brink of elimination and they need a comprehensive win over Iraq on Friday.

For Iraq, it is a similar predicament as they have also lost their opening two Group ‘I’ games to France and Norway.

Iraq and Senegal are scrambling to progress as one of the eight best third-placed teams across the 12 groups, but even if there is a winner when the two sides meet at the Toronto Stadium, they would likely have an anxious wait until the group stage concludes late on Saturday before knowing whether their three-point haul is enough to reach the knockout stage.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

MONTERREY: South Africa beat South Korea 1-0 on Wednesday to reach the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history — an astonishing turnaround after a dismal opening defeat.

The Bafana Bafana, playing in a World Cup for the first time since they hosted it in 2010, were widely written off after their 2-0 loss to Group ‘A’ winners Mexico in the tournament’s curtain-raiser.

But they battled to a draw against the Czech Rep­­u­blic and came out on top of what was effectively a shootout with South Korea for second place in Mon­ter­rey, thanks to Tha­pelo Mas­eko’s second-half strike.

South Africa coach Hugo Broos said it was difficult to put his side’s achievement into words.

“We scored that goal, and it was 20 minutes of heart-beating and hoping that the game should be finished as soon as possible,” said the Belgian.

“So yes, we are in the second round. It’s historic. But I’m very happy for the guys. I’ve worked with them for five years. And what we did in those five years is amazing.”

South Africa will face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on June 28.

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo made a shock call by leaving captain Son Heung-min — considered by many to be Asia’s greatest-ever player — out of the starting line-up.

Myung-bo said he had deliberately left Son on the bench in the hope the forward could exploit tiring South African legs after the break, but conceded his side never found their rhythm.

“We thought that when the opponents had a lot of energy it would be better to use Son later in the game, when they started losing energy and there was more space. We wanted to use him when they were weaker,” Hong said.

Son replaced Hwang Hee-chan at halftime but had little impact.

“We prepared well, but compared to our previous matches we made too many mistakes in midfield. That’s why my players lost confidence. We knew how we should have played, but we should have done better. Today’s performance was simply not good enough,” Hong added.

South Korea finish third in Group ‘A’ with three points from three games. Qualification depends on results from other groups.

“We always talk about just the results,” said Hong. “In terms of the process of preparation and how we can put that onto the playing field, that is something that I had thought about.

“Of course, if we had known the results already beforehand, then I probably would have made some different choices, but I had a strategy in mind.”

The Korean coach said the result was his responsibility.

“Ultimately, it comes down to me,” he said. “I guess I made the wrong decisions and that was the reason why we had a bad result. Nothing more, nothing less.”

‘STUPID MISTAKES’

In the other Group ‘A’ match, Mexico — who had already secured top spot with two opening wins — completed their first round with a 100 per cent record after romping past the Czech Republic 3-0 in the Estadio Azteca.

Mexico move on to a last-32 match in the same stadium on June 30 while the Czechs return home after finishing bottom of the group.

Mateo Chavez gave Mex­ico the lead in the 55th minute and Julian Quinones took advantage of disarray in the Czech defence six minutes later to extend the lead.

Alvaro Fidalgo completed a sparkling evening for the Mexicans as he smashed in a cross four minutes into added time.

Mexico even brought on goalkeeper Guillermo Och­oa as a second-half substitute, allowing the veteran to play in a sixth World Cup finals at the age of 40.

The Czech Republic finished at the bottom of the group with only one point and their coach Miroslav Koubek blamed “stupid mistakes” and exhaustion from heavy travel for his team’s exit.

Koubek cited a draw with South Africa as a critical missed opportunity, which left the Czech Republic with just one point from their opening two matches.

He further added that heavy travel between venues, including flights to Mexico City, left players exhausted, questioning why Mexico were not required to travel to Dallas.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

MIAMI: Five-time World Cup champions Brazil clinched first place in World Cup Group ‘C ‘ on Wednesday after defeating Scot­land 3-0 in Miami, topping the group on goal difference from second-placed Morocco, who secu­red their passage after battling to a 4-2 win over Haiti in Atlanta.

Brazil advanced to the knockout stages in style after Vinicius Jr netted twice while Neymar also made his first appearance in a Brazil shirt in three years.

The victory came at a full house in Miami Stadium where 64,478 fans watched Carlo Ancelotti’s side top the group with seven points while Morocco finished second with a 4-2 win over Haiti.

Vinicius has scored in every game so far and the 25-year-old has four goals in the tournament to find himself in elite company, going level with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland while he sits one goal behind Lionel Messi.

The Scots were left ruing a shaky defensive display as Brazil cruised to a comfortable win. Vinicius scored twice for Brazil, pouncing on a horrendous blunder by Scott McKenna to fire the South Americans ahead in the seventh minute.

The Real Madrid striker then nodded in Brazil’s second in first-half stoppage time before Manch­ester United striker Matheus Cunha added a third in the 60th minute. Brazil’s win also saw coach Carlo Ancelotti give veteran striker Neymar his first appe­arance of the tournament, the Selecao’s all-time leading scorer coming on as a second-half substitute.

Scotland had little to show in attack and Alisson remained a rock in goal, denying them one last chance in the dying minutes as Brazil kept a clean sheet.

Ancelotti hailed Vinicius Junior as “one of the best players in the world” after the Real Madrid forward continued his excellent form.

“I had no doubts about how he would be coming into this World Cup,” said Ancelotti of the 25-year-old, who has four goals in three games at this year’s tournament. “For him it is an honour to play for the national team. He is playing well and he even scored a header, which is very rare for him.

“I knew all about what Vini could do. He is one of the best players in the world,” added Ancelotti.

Meanwhile, Scotland coach Steve Clarke accepted that his team may be heading home from the World Cup in a few days after completing the group stage.

“It was a disappointing performance, a poor result. If you give a team like Brazil the chances like we gave them, you expect to get puniushed,” Clarke said after defensive errors helped Vinicius net twice in the first half.

“That is what happened and as for our chances at the moment, I think we are probably going home.”

Scotland, who have been hoping to reach the knockout rounds at a World Cup for the first time after eight previous failed attempts, finish third in Group ‘C’ with three points.

MOROCCO SURVIVE HAITI SCARE

Meanwhile on Wednesday, Morocco confirmed their progress to the last 32 but twice had to come from behind to get the better of plucky Haiti in an action-packed game and fell short of topping Brazil in the Group C standings.

Morocco finished level on seven points with Brazil and will play the Group ‘F’ winners, Nethe­rlands, Japan or Sweden, on Mon­day in the first knockout round.

Haiti, the first side eliminated from the 48-team tournament after losing their second group game, went ahead early thanks to an own goal, but African Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi equalised in the 39th minute.

Wilson Isidors thunderbolt restored Haitis lead in the 43rd but the match was soon level again as Ismael Saibari scored his third goal in as many World Cup appearances.

It took until the 78th minute for Morocco to take the lead when substitute Soufiane Rahimi thrashed the ball home from close range after Haiti failed to clear a corner and 20-year-old Gessime Yassine made it 4-2 in the last minute.

“It was a crazy game, too many goals but we are really delighted to qualify for the next round and now we have to keep going,” said Hakimi. “Haiti were already out of the competition but showed great spirit and made us suffer but in the end we did it.”

Haiti had only pride to play for but made Morocco work for their victory and despite losing all three games at the tournament — their first in 52 years — will depart with their reputation enhanced.

“We were up against a quality team and I hope we gave our fans something to relish,” said Haiti coach Sebastien Migne. “We have to keep working hard to come back again four years from now.”

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

Chasing a modest 137, opener Shafali Verma struck 53 from 34 balls as India reached the target in 16.5 overs in the Group 2 match.

The result eliminated Bangladesh, making it a straight shootout between India and South Africa for the second semi-final spot, and means India must beat Australia in the final group game on Sunday to qualify.

But if they are to overcome six-time winners Australia, India’s fielding will need to improve significantly. A sloppy performance saw them drop four catches in the first five overs and the innings was littered with misfields.

Despite that, there was a glaring difference in quality between the teams as Bangladesh were unable to punish the mistakes as they scraped to 136-8.

Juairiya Ferdous top-scored with 33 while captain Nigar Sultana Joty added 32, but India’s spin-heavy approach prevailed once more as Radha Yadav took 3-28 and Sree Charani 2-21.

India lost Smriti Mandhana early before Shafali took charge and the chase slowed after her dismissal in the ninth over, but Jemimah Rodrigues’ 26 from 15 helped them over the line.

ENGLAND EASE INTO LAST FOUR

On Wednesday, Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s fine innings at the top of the order laid the foundation for England’s 38-run win over the West Indies at Lord’s as the hosts moved into the semi-finals.

Wyatt-Hodge’s 65 was the cornerstone of England’s 186-7 also featuring a useful 43 from former captain Heather Knight.

West Indies never truly threatened a target of 187 and finished on 148-5 in their 20 overs, with Chinelle Henry’s unbeaten 51 ensuring they batted out their full allocation even if they rarely threatened to get the runs they required.

Victory saw England, without a major women’s trophy since winning the 2017 50-over World Cup on home soil, make it four wins out of four at this tournament.

Wyatt-Hoge struck eight fours in a fine 42-ball innings before she was run-out by team-mate Knight, who helped bolster England’s total and once the hosts removed Hayley Matthews in contentious fashion for 14, the result was rarely in doubt England’s win, achieved without injured captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, and ahead of their final pool fixture with New Zealand, has secured a last-four berth West Indies’ hopes were all but dashed when Matthews was given out caught behind by wicket=keeper Amy Jones off Linsey Smith.

England reviewed the original not out decision and while a spike was visible on UltraEdge, there was a gap between bat and ball. Nevertheless, TV um­p­ire Nimali Perera eventually ruled in England’s favour much to Matthews’s evident despair.

Matthews fell for 14 off 17 balls, but only after a brief show of dissent on the field before she continued her complaints with match referee Shandre Fritz.Without captain Matthews, West Indies quickly collapsed to 69-4 after a fine catch on the boundary rope by Alice Capsey gave stand-in skipper Charlie Dean the first of two wickets.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

In announcing its under-15 ‘World Cup and Festival’ in Azer­baijan from Oct 22 to 31, football’s world governing body said it would be open to everyone.

Even though Russian national teams and clubs have been barred from international competitions since 2022, FIFA never suspended the membership of the Russian football federation.

A spokesperson for FIFA would not directly mention Russia when talking to AFP but confirmed that the tournament “is open to all FIFA member associations” and noted that the competition format and details regarding participants would be announced later.

Russia immediately interpreted the statement as an invitation to return.

“We welcome FIFA’s decision to allow the Russian national team to take part in the World Cup and the FIFA U-15 Festival, which will be held in Azerbaijan in October 2026. This is an important step toward bringing Russian teams back into international sport,” posted Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev on social media.

This move appears to be part of a gradual relaxing of restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes.

In May, the IOC recommen­ded lifting restrictions on Belar­usian athletes — allowing them to compete under their national flag and anthem and participate in team sports — while recommending that restrictions on Russian athletes remain in place.

After being banned in February 2022, Russian athletes were reinstated under a neutral flag in March 2023, subject to specific conditions being met: competing only in individual events, having not publicly supported the invasion of Ukra­ine, and having no ties to Russ­ian military or security services.

Several international sports federations have gone further, allowing Russian and Belaru­sian athletes to compete under their national flags and anthems.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

Nepal is currently ranked 175th in FIFA’s world rankings. The women’s national team ranks 88th.

FIFA said in a letter to the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) that the decision came after “undue interference by a third party”, referring to arguments between ANFA and Nepal’s National Sports Council, the country’s authority for sports administration, over governance of Nepali football.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

Qatar suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat by Canada in their second Group B game, during which Kone sustained a broken leg following a clumsy second-half tackle from Madibo.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee imposed a five-match suspension for serious foul play, a decision which is subject to appeal to the FIFA Appeal Committee. Kone has undergone surgery and Madibo and Qatar’s sports minister visited him in hospital to check on his health, the Qatar Football Association said. After Qatar’s final group match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which they lost 3-1 to exit the tournament, their coach Julen Lopetegui said Madibo should not have been sent off.

“Believe me, I checked the action, it was not a red card,” he told reporters. “It was a very unfortunate situation with Kone, it was not a red card ... that’s why the referee (initially) showed a yellow card.”

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

The duo eclipsed the mark of 276 set by Jackie Mills and Stewie Dempster in 1930 with an opening stand of 317 as England were made to suffer in the sunshine. The home side fought back well with two wickets in the last two overs of the day, but New Zealand still closed day one of the decider in the series on a commanding 361-4 after Latham and Conway had exploited the batter-friendly conditions to the full. It made for a punishing return for Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson who were back after being made unavailable for the second Test at The Oval following an incident at a London nightclub.

An England and Wales Cricket Board investigation found that while both players had broken a team curfew they were not involved in the violent conduct which saw a Saracens rugby player strike a member of the England teams security staff.

It was Stokes, the England captain, who finally made the breakthrough in the 73rd over as Latham edged to wicket-keeper Jamie Smith to depart for 151. It made partial amends for a poor drop from Smith, who was back after paternity leave, when Latham gloved Atkinson down the leg side on 129.

Conway followed in the next over, caught at wide long-on by substitute Matt Fisher off Joe Root for 157.

Latham had completed his 17th Test century first just before tea, clipping Stokes away down to the fine leg boundary.

Conway, who made a double century on his Test debut against England five years ago, followed suit shortly after the interval and then accelerated, hitting Shoaib Bashir and Josh Tongue for sixes in successive overs.

He had been given a life on 71 when the off-spinner struck him on the pads with a delivery that would have gone on to the stumps but England failed to refer the decision to the TV umpire.

Bashir, brought on after just 47 minutes, bowled 22 overs on day one in the sweltering conditions, taking 0-97.

England’s bowlers kept toiling away and Atkinson had his reward in the penultimate over when Rachin Ravindra miscued a pull and skied a catch to Smith before Jofra Archer, who had struck Henry Nicholls on the helmet earlier, found his outside edge with the last ball of the day.

But it was a strong start to the Test for a depleted New Zealand who were without Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry because of injury and Kyle Jamieson who is being rested.

SCOREBOARD

NEW ZEALAND (1st Innings):

T. Latham c Smith b Stokes 151

D. Conway c sub b Root 157

H. Nicholls c Smith b Archer 36

R. Ravindra c Smith b Atkinson 7

W. O’Rourke not out 0

EXTRAS (B-4, LB-3, NB-3) 10

TOTAL (for four wickets, 84.1 overs) 361

FALL OF WICKETS: 1-317 (Latham), 2-319 (Conway), 3-361 (Ravindra), 4-361 (Nicholls)

STILL TO BAT: D. Mitchell, T. Blundell, M. Santner, J. Smith, B. Tickner, B. Sears

BOWLING: Atkinson 16-1-62-1; Archer 12.1-0-53-1 (2nb); Tongue 14-3-60-0 (1nb); Bashir 22-2-97-0; Stokes 13-0-57-1; Bethell 4-0-18-0; Root 3-0-7-1

ENGLAND: B. Duckett, E. Gay, J. Bethell, J. Root, H. Brook, J. Smith (wicket-keeper), B. Stokes (captain), G. Atkinson, J. Archer, J. Tongue, S. Bashir

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

The camp which started at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on Monday, includes white-ball specialist players, emerging cricketers and players identified for future international commitments.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in order to stop the white-ball teams’ decline, especially in the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events, decided to hold a long training camp in Lahore. Overall, 49 players of three formats of the game are attending the camp.

During the last 30 months of international cricket played under the current PCB regime, Pakistan’s overall victory ratio in all the three formats remained a dismal 38 per cent.

During this time, the national team produced pathetic performance in the 2024 and 2026 editions of the T20 World Cup.

As regards the ODI show, Pakistan flopped on home turf in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Prior to the eight-nation showpiece, Pakistan at home were beaten by New Zealand in the final of a tri-series also involving South Africa.

“We started the white-ball camp two weeks ago here at the NCA featuring around 27 to 28 players. The first couple of weeks of the white-ball camp have mainly been about medical testing and fitness assessments, which allow us to get a baseline of where the players are at,” New Zealander Hesson said while talking exclusively to PCB Digital.

“We also have time to make some real improvements from a conditioning point of view. From next week, we will start working on the skills side alongside fitness.”

Talking about the timing of the camp and how the players can work on fitness and skills, Hesson said: “Most white-ball players, especially those involved in different formats, struggle to get a good block of training. A huge advantage for us is that we have almost three months where we can make some big gains from a conditioning point of view.

“Dr Javed Mughal has come in and set some high standards in terms of medical screening and conditioning. The players are finding it tough, which is no surprise. When you play for long periods, fitness levels can go down from a general conditioning and strength perspective.

“To withstand the demands of international cricket, players have to be incredibly fit and strong. We are working on both areas,” he added.

INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE PLAN

Hesson further said that every player at the camp has been given an individual performance plan to ensure focused development.

“We start every camp with individual meetings involving the player, the head coach, NCA staff, the conditioning and the medical teams. We are all working together to come up with an Individual Performance Plan (IPP) for every player,” the 51-year-old underlined.

“Over the next three weeks, every player will have clear focus points. These will include technical and tactical areas, as well as medical or conditioning areas that need work. We are working with purpose. We are not just turning up every day and hoping things work out.

“There is proper planning in place and everyone here at the NCA has a part to play.”

When asked to comment on the opportunity to work with emerging players and recent Pakistan U-19 cricketers, Hesson emphasised that giving the youngsters experience is crucial.

“It is exciting to work with a lot of the U-19 talent. I met with Samir Minhas and Farhan Yousuf and have also been involved with Ali Raza and Abdul Subhan over the last month or so. It is great to expose them to the levels they need to reach. We need to give them experience and challenge them so that when they get the opportunity to play for Pakistan,” the coach said.

While speaking about the squad preparing for this year’s Asian Games, Hesson said the camp provides an important opportunity to assess players and prepare them for future challenges.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

The only previous time the sides shared a group, Austria were accused of conniving with West Germany to ensure both teams advanced in the tournament and Algeria were eliminated.

The game was later dubbed the “Disgrace of Gijon” after the Spanish city where the 1982 World Cup proved an eventful debut for the North Africans, who upset West Germany in their first match with a shock 2-1 victory.

There were 24 teams in the tournament for the first time in 1982, divided into six groups of four with the top two advancing to a second round of group matches.

Algeria lost their second group game to Austria and beat Chile 3-2, leaving them with four points from their three games at a time when two points were awarded for a win.

The group concluded 24 hours later in Gijon with Austria playing neighbours West Germany and a 1-0 win for the Germans would send both sides through.

West Germany went ahead after 10 minutes through Horst Hrubesch, after which both teams passed the ball around with no intention of adding to the score and contrived a result that squeezed Algeria out on goal difference.

“Even though we had somewhat expected it, we were all angry, outraged and stunned,” said Rabah Madjer, Algerias former African Footballer-of-the-Year.

That two major football nations could agree to eliminate a small country like Algeria, playing in its first World Cup and just emerging on the international stage, was shocking.

German sports magazine Kicker described the proceedings as after about 20 minutes, the attacking intensity faded.

The Austrians, for their part, made no effort to exploit the additional space going forward. Suddenly, nobody seemed interested in playing serious football anymore. What followed was an endless exchange of passes, with few challenges and almost no urgency. Possession was lost mainly through misplaced passes.

French daily LEquipe said there should have been 22 red cards shown to the players of both sides.

Spanish spectators waved white scarves in a traditional sign of disapproval while on Austrian television, commentator Robert Seeger told his viewers: “Turn it off!” German defender Paul Breitner, a World Cup winner in 1974, saw little wrong.

“The public is stupid if it doesn’t understand that qualification was all that mattered here, he said, and FIFA ruled the teams were within their rights to play as passively as they did, in response to an Algerian protest.

The Germans won their three-team second-round group, ahead of England and hosts Spain, and advanced to the semi-finals, where they beat France on penalties before losing to Italy in the final. Austria finished behind France in their second group.

A direct result of the “Disgrace of Gijon” was FIFA changing the rule to ensure the final matches in World Cup group stages are played simultaneously to prevent teams having advance knowledge of what they require to advance and the possibility of manufacturing the outcome of games.

“Many people apologised afterwards. It’s good to acknowledge the harm you’ve caused, but it didn’t change anything for us,” Madjer said.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

According to Arif Habib Ltd, the KSE-100 index settled at 179,571 points, up 649 points, or 0.36 per cent week-on-week. The gain was largely attributed to easing geopolitical tensions following the signing of a peace memorandum of understanding and improved investor sentiment despite the rollover week.

Market activity remained uneven during the shortened week, with the index declining over the first two sessions before rebounding on Wednesday. Analysts said the recent de-escalation in tensions involving the US and Iran supported sentiment and raised hopes of greater market stability in the coming week.

Among key economic developments, petrol and high-speed diesel prices were reduced by Rs74.28 and Rs67.31 per litre to Rs299.50 and Rs311.47, respectively, reflecting lower ex-refinery prices and a cut in the petroleum levy.

KSE index closes at 179,571 as OGDC, cement lead recovery after two-session drop

The government raised Rs1.24 trillion through a treasury bill auction against a target of Rs1.2tr, with cut-off yields declining across all maturities by 39 to 115 basis points. The 12-month paper attracted the largest share of investment.

The approved Finance Bill 2026 abolished super tax for companies deriving more than 80pc of their turnover from exports, a move welcomed by the corporate sector.

In the energy sector, Oil and Gas Development Company Ltd (OGDC) commenced gas production from the Sahito-1 discovery well in the Khewari Exploration Licence, while Mari Energies started production from the Shams-1 well, boosting domestic gas supplies.

The rupee also posted a marginal gain, appreciating 0.02pc against the dollar to close the week at Rs278.20.

Exploration and production companies made the largest positive contribution to the index, adding 365 points, followed by cement (352 points), leather and tanneries (126 points), textile composites (71 points) and power generation (64 points). Banking stocks weighed on the market, shaving off 226 points, while technology, investment banks, fertilisers and refineries also posted negative contributions.

Among individual stocks, OGDC contributed 196 points to the index gain, followed by United Bank Ltd, Pakistan Petroleum Ltd, Service Industries and Maple Leaf Cement. On the downside, Bank Al-Habib, Bank Alfalah, Habib Bank, Fauji Fertiliser Company and Pakistan State Oil exerted the greatest pressure.

Average daily trading volume stood at 808 million shares, down 30pc from the previous week, while average traded value declined 41pc to $134 million.

AKD Securities noted that the National Assembly’s approval of the Rs18.8tr FY27 budget supported sentiment, particularly for cement, steel, refinery, textile, pharmaceutical and technology sectors. The brokerage also highlighted lower fuel prices and a sharp decline in treasury bill yields as positive developments for the market.

Other notable developments included expectations of $3.24bn in savings from the conversion of the Jamshoro Power Plant, agreement between the government and oil industry on a petroleum pricing mechanism, and progress towards handing over the control of the Pakistan International Airlines to the new owners.

Sector-wise, leather and tanneries, sugar and allied industries, and textile composites emerged as the top performers, while vanaspati and allied industries, synthetic and rayon, and refineries lagged behind.

Flow data showed companies were the largest net buyers during the week, while foreign investors remained net sellers.

Looking ahead, analysts expect the market to retain its positive momentum, supported by easing inflationary pressures, lower oil prices and expectations of favourable corporate earnings. Progress in US-Iran negotiations and movements in international crude prices are likely to remain key drivers of investor sentiment.

The market continues to trade at attractive valuations, with the KSE-100 index priced at 8.3 times earnings and offering a dividend yield of 6.1pc, while AKD Securities estimates a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 7.1 times.

Published in Dawn, June 26, 2026

KARACHI: Digital payment channels continued to reshape Pakistan’s banking payment system as transactions worth Rs168.8 trillion were conducted through these channels during the third quarter of FY26.

The State Bank of Pakistan on Thursday issued its quarterly report on the payment system for January-March 2026.

“Digital payment channels are becoming increasingly embedded in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem, reshaping the way individuals and businesses initiate, receive and manage payments,” the SBP report said.

During January-March 2026, payments through digital channels continued their growth momentum, reflecting increasing adoption across the country.

The number of quarterly retail payments conducted through the banking system reached 3.7 billion, registering quarterly growth of nine per cent, while the value of transactions increased to Rs168.8tr. Cash-based transactions conducted outside the banking system are not part of the review.

“Digital payment channels processed 3.4bn transactions, accounting for a 92pc share in total retail payments by volume,” the report said. These channels primarily include mobile banking apps and wallets, internet banking portals, USSD, ATMs, POS machines, e-commerce platforms and call/IVR banking services.

The value of these transactions reached Rs68.3tr, up from Rs64.4tr in the previous quarter. Mobile banking apps and e-money wallets remained the dominant drivers of digital payments.

During the quarter, 2.89bn transactions amounting to Rs41.67tr were conducted through banking apps and wallets offered by banks, branchless banking providers and electronic money institutions (EMIs).

The number of app-based banking and internet banking users continued to increase during the quarter. As of March 2026, branchless banking mobile app users reached 95.8m, banking mobile app users increased to 28.9m, EMI wallet app users rose to 7.3m, and internet banking users reached 16.2m.

“This scale and growth reflect increasing consumer preference for wallets and apps as convenient and secure digital payment channels,” the SBP said. Raast adoption maintained strong momentum during the quarter. Raast P2P transactions increased to 664m, amounting to Rs18.88tr, from 603m transactions worth Rs15.69tr in the previous quarter. Raast P2M services also continued to expand, with over 2.6m merchants onboarded or registered with aliases by quarter-end.

“Overall, Raast processed 742m transactions amounting to Rs23.27tr during the quarter, highlighting its increasing adoption in Pakistan’s digital payment ecosystem,” the report said.

As of quarter-end, total payment cards in circulation reached 68.25m, of which debit cards accounted for the largest share at 84pc, or 57.2m.

During the quarter, payment cards were used to conduct 272.2m transactions worth Rs4.99tr at ATMs, 150.4m transactions worth Rs0.81tr at POS terminals and 32.3m transactions worth Rs0.14tr at e-commerce platforms.

QR-enabled merchant payments also showed continued growth during the quarter. Transactions through QR merchants reached 87.3m, showing 41pc quarter-on-quarter growth, and amounted to Rs0.5tr, reflecting 63pc growth, amid increasing merchant acceptance of digital payments.

“E-commerce activity via accounts and wallets continued to expand during the quarter. A total of 434.5m online purchases amounting to Rs0.47tr were conducted through account/wallet-based payment channels,” the report said.

Despite increasing digitisation, bank branches and branchless banking agents continued to play an important role in providing over-the-counter financial services.

The RTGS system, PRISM+, which processes large-value transactions in the country, settled 1.5m transactions amounting to Rs389.8tr. Government securities settlement continued to constitute the largest share in PRISM transaction value.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

According to documents seen by Dawn, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination had scheduled a meeting on Wednesday to consider requests from GMO seed companies seeking commercialisation and sale of GMO maize for cultivation across Pakistan. However, the 38th meeting of the National Biosafety Committee was postponed until Monday.

In March 2016, the National Biosafety Committee (NBC) issued licences to Corteva Pvt Ltd, formerly Pioneer, to conduct only confined field trials of GMO maize Events, which expired in March 2019.

Similarly, in January 2017, Bayer Pvt Ltd was granted licences to carry out only confined field trials of maize Events. The licences expired in January 2022.

Rafhan and others flag export risk to European markets

However, in May 2019, all biosafety licences regarding import and field trials of GMO maize in the country were suspended allegedly due to its health and environmental concerns, as maize is a highly cross-pollinated crop and risks contaminating non-GMO maize in the country.

In the absence of the National Agricultural Biotechnology Policy (NABP), it was difficult to fulfil the international commitment under the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which was a global agreement that ensured the safe handling, transfer, implement strict safety risk assessment procedures to protect biological diversity from potential environmental risks due to the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Documents show that in a meeting on June 10, Dr Nasir A. Saeed, who is the Director, National Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), apprised the Technical Advanced Committee (TAC) meeting that the suspension of GM maize licences was based on key considerations.

Higher contamination risks

He said maize was a highly cross-pollinated crop, making it difficult to prevent gene flow and potential contamination of non-GM maize varieties.

Dr Saeed, who was also Vice Chairperson TAC, said Pakistan already achieved maize yields exceeding 100 maunds per acre in certain areas, therefore, the necessity of introducing GM maize required careful consideration.

In that meeting, Zakia Javed, representative of the Environment Protection Agency, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stated that, while permission for laboratory work had been granted to the proponent in 2016, allowing the commercialisation of GM maize without conducting field trials, based solely on the approved seed policy, may not be an appropriate decision.

She further emphasised that the matter was highly sensitive and warranted consultation with all relevant stakeholders. Additionally, she noted that, given the country’s existing production capacity for non-GM maize, the justification and need for commercial cultivation of GM maize should be thoroughly examined.

The meeting also noted that national security agencies, such as the Strategic Planning Division (SPD) and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of the armed forces, had raised concerns that dependence on imported GM seed technology could pose risks to national agricultural production in the event of disruptions to seed supply chains.

According to the minutes of the second meeting on the Commercial Cultivation of GM maize, the representative from ISI strongly opposed the commercialisation of GM maize in Pakistan. “It is a controversial technology by which our export may suffer. There is no significant increase or decrease in yield or production cost. Therefore, a strategic decision may be taken for the commercialisation of GM maize in the country,” he pointed out.

The meeting noted that Rafhan Maize Products Company Ltd and other local companies exporting maize and value-added products to European markets had expressed concerns about the commercialisation of GM maize, as their exports may be adversely affected by Europe’s preference for GM-free products.

In India, neither GMO Event of genetically modified (GM) maize was approved for commercial cultivation, food, or feed use.

Under the regulatory oversight of Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) and the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR), commercial cultivation of both GMO maize events were not permitted in Australian fields. Any animal/pigs/cattle feed product containing GMOs, or proteins from these GMO events must be labelled as “genetically modified”.

In China, GMO maize was not approved for commercial cultivation. In Turkiye, there was zero tolerance for the cultivation of GM crops, and no genetically modified traits are approved for direct use in human food.

The Ministry of Climate Change did not respond to Dawn’s queries after the questions were emailed to the relevant section for a response.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

In the first incident, in the Iqbal Town area of Dera Murad Jamali, a man opened fire and killed his wife, mother-in-law and father-in-law.

The victims were identified as Gonj Bibi, Mediha Bibi and Ghulam Hussain.

A senior police officer said the couple had come from Jacobabad to meet their daughter when the accused opened fire and fled. Police shifted the bodies to a district hospital and are investigating. No arrests have been reported and the motive is unknown.

In a separate incident in the Jhal Magsi area, unidentified armed men opened fire in Goth Dur Muhammad Methazai, killing two people identified as Gada Hussain and Ali Hussain. The gunmen escaped. Police took the bodies to the district hospital.

In Usta Muhammad, armed men gunned down a man and a woman identified as Muhammad Ramzan and Samina Bibi. The victims suffered multiple bullet wounds and died at the scene.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

The victim, identified by police only as Raja, son of Charshambay, was killed instantly when he attempted to start the vehicle early on Thursday, said Ormara SHO Bashir Ahmed.

Raja, a resident of the Makola area in Pasni, had stayed on Wednesday night at the guesthouse of local religious leader Syed Muheem Jan. Following the blast, police and navy personnel cordoned off the area to begin a preliminary investigation.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

To ensure airtight security, the main procession routes will be monitored continuously through aerial surveillance and a comprehensive network of CCTV cameras. In coordination with local trader associations and shopkeepers, all shops, markets, plazas, and commercial centres along the procession routes have been sealed.

Ahead of the processions, the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) will conduct thorough sweeping operations along the designated routes, along with strict snap-checking at multiple checkpoints.

According to official sources, of the total deployment, more than 17,000 personnel will be stationed exclusively in Quetta. These forces will guard the main procession routes, key public spaces, and all entry and exit points of the city. The deployment includes personnel from the District Police, Balochistan Constabulary, Rapid Response Force (RRF), Anti-Terrorist Force (ATF), Frontier Corps (FC), and the Anti-Riot Force.

As part of the security protocol, mobile phone services and internet connectivity will remain suspended across Quetta and other sensitive areas of Balochistan during the 10th Muharram processions.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

The agreements were signed as part of ongoing cooperation between the two brotherly countries in the energy sector, according to the Ministry of Energy.

The MoUs were signed between Pakistani and Turkish energy sector entities, Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) and Energy Exchange Istanbul (EPIAS), ISMO and the Turkish Electricity Transmission Corporation (TEIAS), and the Power Planning and Monitoring Company (PPMC) and the Turkish Electricity Distribution Corporation (TEDAS).

The agreements establish formal frameworks for cooperation in areas including post privatisation governance framework, electricity market development, ancillary services regulations formulation, power system operations, transmission planning, distribution sector management, digitalisation, capacity building, institutional strengthening, and the exchange of technical expertise.

Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari welcomed the signing of the MoUs and noted that these partnerships represent an important step towards strengthening Pakistan’s energy institutions through collaboration with leading Turkish counterparts.

He emphasised that Pakistan is committed to learning from Turkiye’s successful experience in electricity market reform, transmission system development, distribution sector modernisation, and the integration of advanced technologies into power sector operations.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

SOUTH WAZIRISTAN/BANNU: Thirteen abducted people, including a station house officer (SHO) and eight police personnel, safely returned to their homes on Thursday after being recovered in separate actions across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, officials said.

Eight police personnel, including SHO Ahmad Shah Mehsud, who were abducted a day earlier in the Partogai area of Sararogha tehsil in Upper South Waziristan, were safely recovered on Thursday.

District Police Officer (DPO) Arshad Khan told Dawn that all rec­­overed personnel had safely returned to the police lines in Sararogha and were in stable condition.

He said that following the abduction, local tribal elders and the district administration launched coordinated efforts to secure the release of the policemen. He added that these efforts resulted in the safe recovery of all eight abducted personnel, including SHO.

The DPO appreciated the role played by local elders and thanked them for their cooperation and support in resolving the situation peacefully.

According to police officials, the personnel had travelled to the remote Partogai area of Sararogha tehsil on Wednesday to defuse an unexploded mortar shell. After successfully completing the operation and rendering the explosive device harmless, the team began its return journey.

However, while on their way back, they were intercepted by unidentified armed men, who took them hostage and shifted them to an undisclosed location.

Police sources said the site of the abduction is located about six kilometres from the Sararogha police station. Following the incident, security agencies were placed on high alert, while local elders initiated contacts aimed at securing the release of the hostages.

Police officials said continuous coordination among local elders, the district administration and relevant authorities ultimately led to the safe recovery of all the abducted policemen.

Cop, four others return home

Five people, including a police constable, were safely returned to their homes after having been abducted in separate incidents across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bannu and its surrounding areas.

According to police sources, the abducted Constable Zareen Khan — posted at Utmankhel Police Station — as well as two residents of Pathona Mamandkhel, were released and returned home safely. Their release was reportedly secured through the efforts of local elders and a tribal jirga.

Separately, a resident of Sathi Khel Sorani, who had been taken away by unidentified individuals several days earlier, also returned home safely.

Additionally, Nisar Khan, the headmaster of Government High School Sardar Khan Mandev in Miryan tehsil, also safely returned home after being abducted from the school premises on Wednesday. Police sources confirmed his return, stating that he was in good health and reunited with his family.

The headmaster was reportedly taken away by two armed terrorists during school hours. The safe recovery of all five individuals was attributed to the collective efforts of local elders, tribal jirga members, and law enforcement agencies.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

Their engagement came on the side-lines of the 14th St. Petersburg Inte­rnational Legal Forum (SPILF), held from June 24 to 26, where Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi and Federal Constitutional Court Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan were in attendance.

According to an SC statement, the CJP engaged with judicial leaders from across the world in St. Petersburg to strengthen international judicial cooperation and promote Pakistan’s ongoing judicial reform agenda.

On the sidelines of the forum, the CJP held a series of bilateral engagements with heads of foreign judiciaries to enhance institutional collaboration and expand judicial dialogue.

A key engagement was held with representatives of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation, that focused on establishing a framework for bilateral judicial cooperation, the statement said.

The proposed collaboration encompasses judicial exchanges, professional and judicial education, legal research, court administration, digital transformation, and the sharing of best practices.

According to the SC statement, the forum also provided an opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s ongoing judicial reform initiatives, including advancements in court digitalisation, responsible adoption of emerging technologies, institutional strengthening, and measures aimed at improving access to justice. These engagements faci­litated a meaningful exc­h­ange of experiences on contemporary challenges.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

In his message on the occasion, President Zardari said Pakistan stood with the international community in renewing its collective resolve to address the grave social challenge posed by drug abuse and trafficking.

Referring to this year’s theme, World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses, the president said it highlighted the evolving and complex nature of the global drug problem and underscored the need for coordinated and innovative action.

He said Pakistan remained steadfast in addressing all threats associated with narcotic drugs, including the emergence of new substances, expanding illicit trafficking networks, and the growing accessibility of drugs, particularly among young people.

On eve of International Day Against Drug Abuse, PM calls for united action to build drug-free generation

Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz urged a comprehensive national response to combat the growing threat of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, stressing the need for prevention, awareness, rehabilitation and collective action to protect the youth from narcotics-related challenges.

Alongside traditional narcotics, a new range of highly dangerous synthetic and illicit drugs had emerged in recent years. He warned that criminal networks were increasingly exploiting modern communication technologies and digital platforms to expand their operations, connect buyers and sellers, and evade law enforcement agencies.

The prime minister also expressed concern over the growing use of cryptocurrencies and other digital payment channels to finance illicit drug activities beyond conventional financial systems.

Highlighting the influence of social media and mobile applications, he said harmful substances were often portrayed as fashionable, harmless or linked with success and social acceptance. Such narratives, he added, were deliberately designed to target young people during a critical stage of their personal and social development.

The prime minister observed that the consequences of drug abuse extended far beyond individuals, affecting families, communities and society at large.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari, UNSC Report Executive Director Shamala Kandiah and Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group briefed the meeting, which was held on Tuesday.

They “emphasised that implementation lies at the heart of the Council’s credibility, authority and effectiveness”, the FO said.

The speakers stressed that UN resolutions must be accompanied by “realistic mandates, clear implementation pathways, sustained reporting, adequate resources, political will and follow-up mechanisms” to translate them into practical action on the ground.

Amb Asim Iftikhar rues how non-implementation has left Kashmir dispute unresolved for many decade

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, said UNSC resolutions were legal obligations under the UN Charter.

“He underscored that selective or prolonged non-implementation weakens the Council’s authority, prolongs unresolved disputes and deepens human suffering, including in situations such as Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine,” the FO said.

Kashmir dispute

The ambassador said the non-implementation of UN resolutions on the decades-long Jammu and Kashmir dispute had left the conflict unresolved and prolonged the suffering of the Kashmiri people.

In the meeting, “Pakistan also proposed practical measures, including an annual review of unimplemented and partially implemented resolutions, clearer implementation pathways, stronger follow-up”, as well as better alignment of peace operations and regional arrangements with council decisions.

The FO further said that council members and other UN member states participating in the meeting welcomed the initiative by China and Pakistan, sharing “concrete perspectives on strengthening the implementation of Security Council resolutions across country-specific and thematic situations”.

The member states stressed that the UNSC’s decisions should be realistic, actionable and backed by sustained diplomacy, calling for regular reviews, timely reporting and adequate resources.

“By jointly convening this timely discussion, China and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to multilateralism, the authority of the Security Council, and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter,” the FO noted.

Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026