Huawei Pura 80 Vanilla Model Set for China Pre-Sale Launch This Week

22
Jul

Huawei Pura 80 Vanilla Model Set for China Pre-Sale Launch This Week

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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2 min read

After the international rollout of the Pura 80 Pro+ and Ultra models earlier this year, Huawei is now gearing up for the Huawei Pura 80 launch of the vanilla version. Scheduled for pre-sale in China on Wednesday, July 23, this marks a delayed debut compared to its higher-end siblings. Interestingly, as of now, the official Huawei China website does not feature a “Buy” button for the Pura 80 vanilla, and searching the Huawei online store returns no results. These missing sales options hint that full availability and ordering details may go live only once the pre-sale officially opens. The standard Huawei Pura 80 launch model is reported to be powered by the Kirin 9010S chip, differentiating it from the more advanced Pro+ and Ultra models which come with the Kirin 9020 processor. Technical specifications for the Kirin 9010S remain mostly undisclosed, but insights from the original Kirin 9010 suggest it includes an octa-core Taishan CPU configured in a 1+3+4 layout. This chip also supports hyper-threading technology and is equipped with a Maleoon 910 GPU, promising efficient performance and graphics handling. Huawei’s most recent HarmonyOS 5.1 will be pre-installed on the vanilla Pura 80, providing a smooth and improved user experience. This operating system update adds a number of new features and optimizations that support the expansion of Huawei’s ecosystem. For design enthusiasts, Huawei offers the Pura 80 vanilla in four sophisticated colors: Velvet Gold, Velvet Green, Velvet White, and Velvet Black. These options provide buyers with elegant and stylish choices to suit different tastes. Huawei’s staggered release strategy, launching higher-end Pura 80 models internationally first and following with the vanilla model domestically, appears to focus on maximizing market coverage and targeting distinct consumer segments effectively. As the pre-sale launch date nears, more detailed information is expected regarding pricing, availability, and sales channels. Consumers interested in the Huawei Pura 80 launch should monitor Huawei’s official announcements closely. In summary, the Huawei Pura 80 launch vanilla edition is set to hit the Chinese market this week, powered by the Kirin 9010S chip, equipped with HarmonyOS 5.1, and offered in a variety of colors. This launch completes the Pura 80 lineup, giving consumers a fuller range of options in Huawei’s mid-to-high-end smartphone portfolio.

22
Jul

Devastation in Gilgit-Baltistan: Flash Floods Leave Several Dead, Dozens Stranded

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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2 min read

Gilgit-Baltistan faced a devastating natural disaster on Monday as flash floods in Babusar swept away tourist vehicles, tragically killing three people and leaving at least 15 missing. Triggered by intense monsoon rains, the floods also injured four individuals and disrupted infrastructure across the Diamer district. According to Faizullah Firaq, the spokesperson for the GB government, three bodies were recovered from debris in the affected region, while the injured were rushed to a nearby hospital in Chilas. He noted that one of the injured remains in critical condition. “Fifteen tourists are still unaccounted for after eight vehicles were washed away by raging floodwaters,” Firaq stated. Emergency medical teams are actively engaged in providing treatment and searching for those missing. The flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan have severely impacted communication services, with a fibre optic line damaged, cutting off contact between thousands of stranded tourists and their families. Despite these challenges, the GB government confirmed that hundreds have been successfully rescued from the Babusar Highway, many of whom have found shelter with local residents. The GB Chief Minister has issued urgent orders for all available resources to be deployed in ongoing rescue operations. The Babusar Highway remains closed at several points, with adjacent roads and farmlands suffering extensive damage. Monsoon rains also caused tragedy in neighboring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Three young siblings were killed and their mother was seriously injured when a roof collapsed in the Gujjar Banda neighborhood of Madyan in Swat due to persistent rain. The family was buried beneath the debris when the house collapsed overnight, according to Rescue 1122 spokesperson Shafiqa Gul. Rescue crews arrived right away and took the injured to Civil Hospital Madyan, where medical professionals declared the children dead. Elsewhere in Naran, heavy rainfall caused landslides, blocking Jalkhad road with large stones and debris. Amir Khadam Khan, a spokesperson for Rescue 1122 in Mansehra, reported that a vehicle was trapped but confirmed no loss of life. The National Highways Authority (NHA) has deployed heavy machinery to clear the blocked roads and restore traffic flow. Earlier on June 29, the GB Disaster Management Authority warned that travelers should avoid rivers, streams, and highland waterways during the monsoon rains due to the possibility of flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). This recent tragedy underscores the need for stronger disaster preparedness and public awareness as Pakistan faces increasingly volatile monsoon rains each year.

22
Jul

Tragedy in Dhaka: Air Force Jet Crash at School Kills 20, Injures Over 170

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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3 min read

In a devastating incident that has shocked the nation, a Bangladesh jet crash into a school in Dhaka on Monday has claimed the lives of at least 20 people, including 17 children, and left over 170 injured. The crash occurred when a Bangladeshi Air Force F-7 training aircraft suffered a mechanical failure shortly after taking off and slammed into Milestone School and College in Uttara, a suburb of the capital. The scene’s footage showed heavy black smoke rising into the sky as a fireball erupted from the two-story school building. At approximately 13:00 local time, minutes after pupils had completed their classes and were leaving the school grounds, the Dhaka school tragedy occurred. According to the Bangladesh Armed Forces, the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Md. Taukir Islam, was among the deceased. Reports suggest he made a desperate attempt to steer the aircraft away from a densely populated area but was unable to avoid impact. The jet had only just departed from a nearby air force base for a routine training flight when it developed a technical fault. Horror scenes were described by eyewitnesses. The plane crashed “directly into the building,” according to Rezaul Islam, a teacher at the school. Masud Tarik, another instructor, reported that parents and kids fled for safety as the explosion rocked the region. He remembered, “I saw only smoke and fire.” A Year 10 student who had just completed an exam said he watched the Bangladesh jet crash unfold in front of his eyes. Tragically, his best friend was one of the victims. Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes. Rescue workers and volunteers combed through charred rubble, searching for survivors. Many victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, including the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, where more than 50 people were being treated for severe injuries, including jet fuel burns. Doctors said many of the injured were aged between 10 and 15 years old. The Health Ministry confirmed victims were spread across seven different hospitals in Dhaka. Heart-wrenching scenes played out at emergency rooms, as families searched desperately for missing children. One man stood by his grieving brother and said his eight-year-old nephew had died. “My beloved nephew is in the morgue now,” he said tearfully. In response to the Dhaka school tragedy, Bangladesh’s interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus issued a statement expressing national grief. He promised a thorough investigation and directed all relevant authorities to prioritize the care of the injured. “This is a moment of deep sorrow for the nation,” he said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. A government investigation committee has been formed to determine the exact cause of the mechanical failure that led to the crash. The Bangladeshi government has also declared Tuesday a National Day of Mourning, with the flag to be flown at half-mast across the country. This Bangladesh jet crash marks one of the deadliest air-related incidents in the country’s recent history, and leaves behind a nation in collective mourning.

22
Jul

Pearl Continental Hospitality to Expand Bukhara & Dumpukht Resturants in Punjab, Islamabad, and Saudi Arabia

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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3 min read

The Hashoo Group’s hospitality division, Pearl Continental Hospitality, has signed a Master Franchise Agreement with Global Business Bridge (Private) Limited to expand its well-known restaurant brands, Bukhara and Dumpukht, throughout Punjab, Islamabad, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This is a significant development for the South Asian culinary scene. The strategic partnership was officially announced during a signing ceremony held on July 19, 2025, at Pearl-Continental Hotel Lahore. The event was attended by senior executives from Hashoo Group, PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality, and Global Business Bridge, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s regional and international growth journey. This collaboration aims to bring world-class Pakistani culinary experiences to new markets by launching outlets of Bukhara and Dumpukht resturants, two of the most cherished fine-dining restaurants under the Connoisseur Collection of PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality. The expansion promises to elevate food culture in key urban hubs and cater to a growing audience that appreciates authenticity blended with excellence. Bukhara, known for its tandoor-cooked kebabs, vegetables, breads, and aromatic live BBQ, is a celebration of Pakistan’s rich culinary heritage. On the other hand, Dumpukht, derived from the traditional “dum” cooking style of the 18th-century Indian Nawabs, brings luxurious slow-cooked dishes, retaining their natural essence and flavor in every bite. Together, Bukhara and Dumpukht resturants are emblematic of Pakistan’s gourmet traditions and continue to be favored destinations for discerning diners. Shahid Riaz Gondal, CEO of Global Business Bridge, expressed excitement over the agreement, stating, “This partnership reflects our shared vision to bring exceptional dining experiences to wider audiences. Our success with Dumpukht in DHA Lahore gives us the confidence to take this expansion forward and introduce authentic Pakistani cuisine to both local and global palates.” From PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality, Bastien Blanc, CEO of the Hospitality Division at Hashoo Group, called the partnership a transformative chapter in the group’s restaurant expansion plan. “This agreement allows us to grow our presence both domestically and internationally, especially in the rapidly evolving hospitality sector of Saudi Arabia,” he said. The Pearl Continental coming restaurants are set to blend traditional recipes with modern hospitality practices, aiming to set new standards in the premium dining sector. The expansion also underlines PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality’s continued commitment to promoting the culinary richness of Pakistan on a global scale. This move also strengthens the position of Bukhara and Dumpukht resturants within Hashoo Group’s expansive food portfolio, which already includes over 50 restaurants under the Connoisseur Collection, such as Sakura, Marco Polo, Tai Pan, and others. Through its collaboration with Global Business Bridge, PEARL CONTINENTAL Hospitality continues to build bridges between culture and cuisine, offering refined dining to both local patrons and international visitors.

22
Jul

Pakistan Risks Major Financial Blow if Asia Cup 2025 Gets Cancelled

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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3 min read

The future of the Asia Cup 2025 hangs in the balance as political strains and internal power struggles threaten the highly anticipated tournament. Scheduled for September, the fate of this major cricketing event is set to be determined during a crucial Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting in Dhaka this week. However, recent developments suggest strong opposition from major cricketing boards, with India, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan reportedly resisting the decision to hold the meeting in the Bangladeshi capital. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PEARL CONTINENTALB), which stands to earn over PKR 1.25 billion from the tournament, faces a substantial financial setback if the event is cancelled. Allegations have surfaced that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively lobbying to derail the event. Analysts view this as part of an attempt to undermine Mohsin Naqvi—current Chairman of PEARL CONTINENTALB and President of the ACC—especially at a time when regional cricket diplomacy is under intense scrutiny. Under ACC regulations, a quorum requires attendance from at least three full Test-playing members and ten total full or associate member nations. With India and its allies either refusing to travel or join via video conference, the possibility of reaching a valid quorum appears bleak, potentially rendering the meeting invalid. India has objected to the Dhaka location even though it is the Asia Cup 2025 official host. The BCCI has yet to confirm its attendance, either in person or virtually, creating uncertainty over the event’s scheduling and location. Mohsin Naqvi recently traveled to Kabul in his capacity as Pakistan’s Interior Minister. Although the visit was officially for regional security discussions, Indian media speculated it was aimed at securing Afghanistan’s support for the Dhaka meeting. Afghanistan, which has enjoyed a long-standing cricketing partnership with India, is reported to have reaffirmed its alignment with Indian interests. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board remains tight-lipped about financial loss estimates in case of cancellation. “We do not respond to Indian propaganda,” a PEARL CONTINENTALB spokesperson stated in response to Indian media claims about massive revenue losses. Financially, the stakes are high. PEARL CONTINENTALB is projected to earn approximately PKR 8.8 billion from the Asia Cup 2025 and other international tournaments this fiscal year, with PKR 1.16 billion coming from the Asia Cup alone. Additionally, the board has set aside about USD 25.9 million from its ICC share to support yearly operations. To manage Pakistan’s interests, Naqvi has appointed former PEARL CONTINENTALB COO and advisor Salman Naseer to represent the country on the ACC Executive Board. Naseer is already in Dhaka, handling diplomatic and cricketing affairs on PEARL CONTINENTALB’s behalf. India and Pakistani tensions are still evident on the cricket pitch. Just days ago, during the World Championship of Legends (WCL) in Birmingham, India declined to play a scheduled match against Pakistan Champions, leading to the match’s cancellation. As the cricket world watches closely, the Asia Cup 2025 faces serious challenges that go far beyond the sport, with billions at stake and geopolitical tensions deepening.

22
Jul

United Nations Linguistics Include Urdu in General Assembly Translations to Promote Diversity

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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2 min read

In a historic step toward fostering global inclusivity and cultural understanding, the United Nations linguistics has officially expanded the language scope of its General Assembly documents by including Urdu and 27 additional languages. This initiative, presented as part of the UN’s continued commitment to multilingualism, ensures that crucial international agreements are more accessible to people worldwide. The six official languages of the United Nations General Assembly were Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. However, this translation effort was expanded to include many more native languages under the direction of H.E. Dennis Francis, the current President of the General Assembly, enabling over 3.5 billion people to access official content in their mother tongues. An important turning point in this effort was the translation of the “Pact for the Future,” a crucial document centered on inclusive and participatory global governance. Raees Warsi, the President of Urdu Markaz New York, formally presented President Dennis Francis with the Urdu version of this agreement. With its Permanent Mission to the UN working closely with Urdu Markaz to create versions in Sindhi and Urdu, Pakistan was instrumental in the translation process. To honor the member states and institutions participating in the multilingual translation project, a special event was hosted on July 17 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Raees Warsi and Usman Jadoon, Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, co-presented the Urdu translation during the event. The move is part of President Francis’s broader vision to institutionalize multilingualism at the UN. He has set up a dedicated task force to promote language diversity and implemented a comprehensive plan to increase linguistic inclusivity during the UN General Assembly’s 79th session. Representatives and diplomats from various nations – including India, Vietnam, Ukraine, Bangladesh, and members of the European Union – attended the event, showing international solidarity in the pursuit of linguistic inclusion. By embracing languages like Urdu, the United Nations takes a significant step toward breaking down communication barriers, ensuring wider participation in global discussions, and reinforcing the principle that language should not be a limitation in diplomacy or governance. This development not only enhances transparency in international affairs but also validates the linguistic identities of millions. It marks a new era of engagement, where more communities around the world can connect with the ideals and actions of the United Nations in their own language.

21
Jul

Pakistan Air Force Triumphs at UK Royal Air Show 2025: A Stellar Display of Excellence

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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4 min read

Since the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) won two major honors at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, one of the most renowned military aviation events in the world, the UK Royal Air Show 2025 has become a significant occasion for the PAF. As the world’s leading air forces gathered at this iconic show, PAF emerged as one of the standout performers, claiming the “Spirit of the Meet” trophy for its JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jet and the “Concours d’Elegance” trophy for its C-130H Hercules aircraft. The UK Royal Air Show is more than just an exhibition of air superiority. It is a platform where nations showcase their technical capabilities, innovation, and professionalism. In this context, the success of PAF at the 2025 edition of RIAT is a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence, something that has been reinforced time and again over the years. A Moment of National Pride: PAF’s Historic Win For aviation enthusiasts and those who have followed PAF’s global journey, the recognition of the JF-17C Block III as the winner of the “Spirit of the Meet” trophy feels like an earned triumph. This award is presented to the aircraft that most embodies the spirit, excitement, and ethos of the event, and the JF-17 Thunder Block-III did just that. A symbol of Pakistan’s cutting-edge aviation technology, the JF-17 has always had a special place in the heart of the nation. Its performance at the airshow, a first-time debut at the event, was a powerful reminder of the aircraft’s capabilities. The Spirit of the Meet trophy is not just an award—it is a reflection of a country’s technological advancement, its commitment to defense, and its ability to captivate an international audience with raw, breathtaking performance. PAF’s win symbolizes its continued commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in aviation excellence. C-130 Hercules: A Touch of Elegance Meanwhile, the C-130H Hercules took home the “Concours d’Elegance” trophy, an award that recognizes the best-maintained and most aesthetically pleasing aircraft at the show. This trophy not only celebrates the C-130’s impeccable presentation but also highlights the dedication of PAF in maintaining one of the most essential and iconic aircraft in its fleet. The C-130’s special livery, designed around the theme “Eyes in the Skies,” beautifully captured the essence of the event while emphasizing the aircraft’s operational versatility. The intricate attention to detail and the aircraft’s flawless maintenance were on full display, further solidifying PAF’s standing as a top-tier air force on the global stage. The Spirit of International Collaboration Beyond the trophies, PAF’s participation at RIAT 2025 also led to glowing praise from international aviation professionals and counterparts, especially during the Air Chiefs’ Conference. The air force’s aircraft presentation and performance were met with admiration, underscoring Pakistan’s professionalism and military prowess. Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu expressed immense pride in the PAF’s accomplishments, highlighting the role these victories play in strengthening national pride and showcasing Pakistan’s air force as a symbol of technical expertise and relentless pursuit of excellence. PAF’s Growing Legacy at RIAT This year’s victories are not isolated incidents but part of a long-standing tradition of success at RIAT. Previous triumphs in 2006, 2016, and 2018 have solidified PAF’s place in the global aviation community. The 2025 awards further reinforce Pakistan’s standing as a world-class air force that is ready to face future challenges head-on, all while maintaining its rich heritage and commitment to the highest standards of professionalism. Looking Forward: A Bright Future for PAF Reflecting on these accolades, it is clear that PAF’s presence at the UK Royal Air Show 2025 was not just a matter of competition, it was a declaration of Pakistan’s strength and ability to innovate. As we look to the future, it is certain that PAF will continue to surprise and inspire the world with its technological advancements, elite performance, and steadfast commitment to protecting the skies. With the PAF continuing to rise to new heights, we can only expect further success in future events, strengthening its legacy as one of the world’s most respected air forces.

21
Jul

The Controversial Cancellation of Pak-India Cricket Match: A Symbol of Geopolitical Tensions or a Missed Opportunity for Peace?

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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5 min read

In a highly publicized move, the World Championship of Legends (WCL) was forced to cancel a scheduled cricket match between India and Pakistan’s veteran players due to escalating geopolitical tensions between the two neighboring countries. This development has left fans disheartened and raised questions about the role of sports in fostering diplomacy amidst a fractured political landscape. The WCL, an international tournament bringing retired, non-contracted international cricketers back to competitive T20 cricket, had aimed to bring a semblance of sporting peace. It was supposed to be a momentous match between two cricketing giants, but instead, it was pulled at the last minute, leaving more questions than answers. What Led to the Cancellation of the Pak-India Cricket Match? The match was set to take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, but it was called off after Indian cricketers, including renowned veteran Shikhar Dhawan, withdrew from the fixture. The players cited the “current geopolitical situation and prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan” as the reasons for their refusal to play. The WCL, in its official statement, apologized for the discomfort caused to Indian players and fans, revealing that they had initially planned the match in the hope of improving bilateral sporting ties between the two countries. In recent months, there had been glimmers of positive developments between India and Pakistan in the world of sports. A volleyball match earlier this month had seen Pakistan triumphing 3-0 in the Asian Men’s U-16 Championship, and there were even discussions about a potential hockey team exchange later this year. Yet, despite these events, the specter of political hostility continues to overshadow any real progress. The situation only became more complicated when an Indian travel company, a key sponsor of the tournament, also announced its decision to sever ties with the WCL due to the inclusion of Pakistan in the tournament. The response from India’s former cricketers has highlighted the stark divide between sport and politics in the subcontinent. It seems that, for some, the lines between these two realms have become increasingly blurred. The Growing Influence of Geopolitics on Pak-India Cricket This incident has amplified the reality that political tensions between India and Pakistan have seeped deeply into every aspect of bilateral relations — even sports. The decision by Shikhar Dhawan and others to withdraw isn’t just a reaction to the political tensions; it’s a reflection of the larger environment of mistrust and hostility that exists between the two nations. The geopolitical climate is such that cricket, once a unifying force, now finds itself as an unwitting tool of division. Interestingly, this isn’t the first time political tensions have impacted cricket. Back in May 2023, the two countries were on the brink of war after the Pahalgam attack in Kashmir, which saw India accusing Pakistan of being involved without providing conclusive evidence. Such conflicts — including the militarized confrontations, have complicated diplomatic channels, making something as innocent as a cricket match seem irrelevant when the very fabric of national security is at stake. For many, however, this cancellation represents more than just a setback for the sport. It’s a loss of hope that cricket could have bridged the divide between the two countries, offering an arena for peaceful dialogue. This match, in its absence, highlights how far apart India and Pakistan remain, even in the most non-political of spaces. The Missed Opportunity for Diplomacy Some argue that this could have been a golden opportunity for both countries to use sports as a bridge for peace. Cricket, after all, has a long history of transcending boundaries. Even during times of conflict, matches between India and Pakistan have provided brief moments of unity. This was especially evident in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where despite political tensions, the match between the two nations was watched by millions, symbolizing the power of sport to bring people together, if only for a fleeting moment. But it feels like yet another chance to promote kindness and respect for one another has been squandered with the cancellation of this event. The idea that sport has increasingly been a victim of the geopolitical conflicts between the two nations is widely held. This is about the spirit of competition and teamwork that characterizes international sports, not only cricket or even the WCL. Reflection: Is Cricket Just a Game Anymore? From a personal perspective, this turn of events is disheartening. Cricket was always more than just a game, it was a passion that united millions, regardless of where you came from. But now, it seems like the game is becoming yet another casualty of larger, unresolved political struggles. How do we, as fans and spectators, continue to support a game that is continuously pulled in the crossfire of nationalistic fervor? The question is complicated, but the reality is simple: until both nations can separate sport from politics, the future of Pak-India cricket will remain uncertain. Ultimately, the cancellation of the Pak-India cricket match isn’t just a story about one game. It’s a reflection of how the tensions between two nations are infiltrating every corner of life, including something as pure as sport. This moment, like many others, underscores the hard truth: cricket might not be able to bridge the gap in the face of such deep-rooted geopolitical divisions. Until we see a change, fans and players alike will be left waiting for the day when sport is truly allowed to be just about the game. The question is: when will that day come?

21
Jul

Honor Killing in Quetta: A Grim Reminder of Unyielding Violence

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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4 min read

In the heart of Quetta, Balochistan, a chilling incident has stirred emotions across Pakistan and beyond. A disturbing video, showing the brutal killing of a couple over ‘honor,’ went viral this past weekend, raising critical questions about the persistence of honor killings in the region. The murder of Ehsan Samalani and Bano Satakzai, both reportedly slain for marrying without family consent, has reignited the urgent debate on the country’s approach to gender-based violence and the deeply rooted cultural practices that justify such horrific acts. The viral video, which surfaced shortly after Eid -ul-Azha, captures the tragic moment when the woman and man were ruthlessly executed by a group of people. The chilling footage has become a stark reminder of how women, in particular, continue to be trapped by patriarchal structures that value ‘honor’ over human life. In this case, the couple was said to have wed out of love, a decision that angered their families. This alone is enough to paint the grim picture of a society where individuals, especially women, have little power over their own lives. According to reports, the couple was invited to the village for what seemed like an innocent lunch. However, it was there, in an isolated spot in Dagari, that they were informed by the ‘elders’ of the community that they were to be punished for their defiance. As the woman, Bano, spoke her last words, pleading for mercy, the situation grew increasingly grotesque. She reportedly told her killers, “You are allowed to shoot me, but nothing more than that,” adding a chilling humanity to her final moments. Despite her plea, she was shot three times, followed by the execution of her partner. The bodies have yet to be recovered, making the investigation even more complicated. Yet, the emotional and psychological toll of this case is undeniable. For many, this incident is yet another reminder that honor killings remain a real and brutal threat, especially for women who challenge traditional norms. As the video spread across social media, the Balochistan government acted quickly, with Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti making a decisive call for justice. A case was filed under anti-terrorism laws, highlighting the severity of the crime and signaling that the state would not tolerate such barbarism. One primary suspect has been arrested, and authorities are continuing their manhunt for other culprits. The use of facial recognition technology and Nadra data has helped track down the individuals involved in the killing. According to spokesperson Shahid Rind, the investigation is ongoing, and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. “The state will not remain a silent spectator to such barbarism,” CM Bugti said. His words reflect a growing sentiment in Balochistan, one where the state’s role in curbing violence against women is coming under increasing scrutiny. This incident has also prompted national outrage. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, whose party governs the province, condemned the act and called those responsible “beasts who deserve no mercy.” Similarly, Aladdin Khilji, a prominent activist from the Aurat Foundation, voiced his shock and grief. “This video has shaken us to the core,” Khilji said. “It is a stark reminder that honor killings remain a brutal reality in Balochistan, where 212 such murders have been reported between 2019 and 2024.” From a personal perspective, these killings are not just a reflection of a broken system but a tragic failure to humanize and protect the most vulnerable. Despite legislative strides and the increasing presence of women’s rights organizations, incidents like this continue to surface with alarming regularity. While the arrest of the primary suspect is a step forward, the real challenge lies in tackling the systemic violence that enables honor killings to persist. This case should not be viewed in isolation. The emotional devastation of the families involved is deeply personal and painful, yet the societal implications extend far beyond Balochistan. It speaks to the urgent need for reform in how gender-based violence is treated by the legal system and the social structures that sustain such cruelty. In conclusion, while the arrest of the culprit is a positive development, it remains insufficient without a comprehensive societal shift. The state must do more than arrest perpetrators; it must confront the deep-seated cultural norms that allow such acts to occur with impunity. Until then, honor killings will continue to haunt the lives of countless women in Balochistan and across Pakistan.

21
Jul

The Silent Journey of Saudi Arabia’s Sleeping Prince: A Story of Tragic Farewell

Daily Headlines / 3 weeks
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4 min read

The recent passing of Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, aged 36, has left the world in shock, as the “Sleeping Prince” of Saudi Arabia peacefully closed his eyes after more than two decades in a coma. This was not just the end of a life, but the conclusion of an extraordinary story of family resilience, royal dedication, and the unwavering belief in the power of hope. When Prince Alwaleed was only 15 years old, he was involved in a terrible vehicle accident in London that marked the beginning of his journey. His life and his family’s hearts were forever changed by that awful day in 2005. He suffered terrible injuries and a major brain hemorrhage, which sent him into a coma from which he would never fully recover. His family, particularly his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal al Saud, clung to the nearly unthinkable hope that the prince would one day awaken for twenty long years. In the quiet corridors of the royal family’s palaces and the halls of hospitals, this story of unyielding hope became a saga that drew the world’s attention. For 20 years, Prince Khaled, Prince Alwaleed’s father, made a personal vow to keep his son alive, going to extraordinary lengths, bringing in the best medical experts and treatment methods, all in a desperate hope that one day, a miracle would occur. It wasn’t just a matter of survival; it was a matter of devotion to a son. The media, as well as the public, followed the saga with bated breath. Every now and then, news reports would hint at small signs of improvement. There were moments when it seemed like Prince Alwaleed was on the verge of waking up, like when, in 2020, his family released a video of the prince lifting his fingers in response to a woman’s greeting. A moment of hope, but alas, no further signs of recovery followed. It felt like a cruel dance between reality and the hope that the royal family clung to. The death of Prince Alwaleed is more than just a tragic event; it raises questions about the lengths we are willing to go for those we love, and how, even in the face of the most unimaginable odds, the human spirit clings to hope. The royal family of Saudi Arabia has been through the most excruciating of emotional rollercoasters, and the world watched, somewhat helplessly, as this story unfolded. Reflecting on the legacy of Prince Alwaleed, there’s something profoundly human in his story. As the “Sleeping Prince,” he never got the chance to experience the life that most of us take for granted. He was unable to enjoy the fruits of his royal lineage, travel the world, or even interact with his family in the way he might have wished. Yet, his legacy remains one of unparalleled patience and dedication, not just from him but from his entire family. The royal family’s decision to continue his life, supported by ventilators and medical technology, brings into focus the ethical boundaries of such a decision. For many, the question may arise: at what point does hope give way to acceptance? The devotion displayed by Prince Khaled, Alwaleed’s father, cannot be overstated. For 20 years, he never wavered. He stood by his son, perhaps even when the rest of the world moved on. That level of devotion is a reminder of the deep, unconditional love parents have for their children, no matter the circumstances. The impact of this loss is far-reaching. For the people of Saudi Arabia, the “Sleeping Prince” was more than just a figurehead. He symbolized something deeply personal to the royal family and the nation, a symbol of faith, a representation of the unwavering strength of familial bonds, and the embodiment of hope that refuses to let go, no matter how distant the dream may seem. In the wake of his death, the Global Imams Council released a statement offering prayers for the prince’s soul and their deepest condolences to his family. Their words, “We pray the almighty Allah envelops the late prince with his vast mercy…,” seem like a final acknowledgment of the spiritual journey that Prince Alwaleed embarked upon in those silent years of his coma. As we reflect on the passing of Saudi Arabia’s Sleeping Prince, we are reminded that life is fragile, and time, in all its mysteries, marches on. Yet, even in death, the story of Prince Alwaleed reminds us that there are some battles that transcend our understanding, and some stories that will echo in the hearts of millions forever.