Ishaq Dar with Marco Rubio (Image/X)

A viral video featuring Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the US Secretary of State marco rubio The debate has resurfaced over whether Islamabad might ultimately recognize Israel. In the clip, a journalist can be heard asking Dar, “Dar sir, will Pakistan recognize Israel?(Will Pakistan recognize Israel?) Both Dar and Rubio were seen ignoring this question while leaving the venue.However, Pakistan’s official position remains unchanged. Speaking at the Pakistani Embassy in Washington after meeting Rubio, Dar reiterated that Islamabad will not change its stance until meaningful progress is made toward the creation of an independent Palestinian state.“There are a lot of rumors doing the rounds regarding the Abraham Accords. Let me clarify that Pakistan’s stand on this is very clear and consistent. There will be no flexibility unless Palestine is recognized on the pre-1967 model with Quds al Sharif (occupied East Jerusalem) as its capital,” Dar said, reported Dawn. He stressed that Pakistan is committed to the Palestinian cause and said there can be no change in relations with Israel until a Palestinian state is established. “Pakistan remains steadfast in its position on Palestine and Gaza. Israel should move towards the establishment of a Palestinian state before Islamabad considers any change in policy,” he said. The comments come days after US President Donald Trump publicly said he had encouraged several Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Egypt and Jordan, to join the Abraham Accords as part of broader diplomatic efforts tied to ending the Iran conflict.The Abraham Accords were first signed in 2020, normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.However, Pakistan quickly rejected any suggestion that it was considering joining the initiative. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif recently described Israeli recognition as ‘unacceptable’ and argued that such a move would be contrary to Pakistan’s founding principles and long-standing support for a Palestinian state.“Neither has anyone from the US State Department contacted us nor has anyone officially made any such proposal,” Asif said. Confirming Pakistan’s position, he said that Pakistani passports also do not recognize Israel. He commented, “Even our passports don’t have the name Israel on them.”Asif also described the ongoing conflict in Gaza as a major obstacle to any normalization efforts. “The Gaza agreement is still being violated. How can we sit with people who are not trustworthy even for a day?” he said.Analysts say that public opinion in Pakistan overwhelmingly supports the Palestinian cause, making it politically difficult to recognize Israel under the current circumstances. According to Dawn, Pakistan has never formally recognized Israel and has linked any potential change in policy to the creation of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. There is a renewed focus on Pakistan’s Israel policy as Islamabad plays a major diplomatic role in efforts to ease tensions between the United States and Iran. During his meeting with Rubio, Dar discussed regional security, bilateral cooperation and Pakistan’s mediation efforts aimed at preserving the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.According to the US State Department, Rubio thanked Pakistan for the ‘constructive role’ it is playing in promoting peace in the Middle East and acknowledged its mediation efforts with Iran. Pakistan’s Foreign Office said both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, counter-terrorism and regional security.Dar said Pakistan is committed to maintaining confidentiality as a mediator and expressed hope that the ongoing diplomatic efforts will eventually lead to a comprehensive agreement between the US and Iran. He said several countries had shown interest in hosting the talks, but Pakistan was chosen because of its close ties with all parties involved.

The Center on Friday launched a high-priority operation to safely escort 13 Indian-flagged commercial ships out of the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions continue to rise in West Asia and the Gulf region.The move is part of a broader government effort involving multiple ministries to protect Indian citizens, seafarers and commercial interests amid growing instability in the region. Also, the Ministry of External Affairs urged Indian citizens to avoid traveling to Iran and advised those already in the country to seek assistance from the Indian mission.Opesh Kumar Sharma, director of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, said authorities have made a coordinated plan to assist Indian ships currently operating in the strategically important waterway.He said, “A coordinated priority has been drawn up through which we try to get our ships out. Currently, there are around 13 Indian flagged ships: one LPG tanker, five crude oil tankers, one chemical or product tanker, three container ships, two bulk carriers and one dredger. Our priority is to get out our ships which are currently inside.”Officials said the vessels included crude oil tankers, container ships, bulk carriers and a dredger. The government is keeping a close watch on their activities amid concerns over maritime security in the Gulf.Sharma also pointed to the successful transit of Marshall Islands-flagged crude oil tanker Nisos Keros carrying approximately 2,70,000 metric tonnes of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz during the night of May 25 and 26.“The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations. As part of the ship movement, a merchant ship, Nisos Keros, a Marshall Islands-flagged crude oil tanker, safely transited the Strait of Hormuz on the night of the 25th and 26th. It will reach Visakhapatnam on June 3, 2026. This merchant ship is carrying approximately 2,70,000 metric tons of crude oil. It has all foreign crew members. All Indian seafarers in the area are safe, and there have been no incidents involving Indian seafarers onboard Indian-flagged or foreign-flagged merchant vessels,” he said.According to the ministry, all Indian seafarers aboard domestic and foreign flagged ships in the area are safe, with no hostile incidents reported so far.The Emergency Control Room of the Directorate General of Shipping continues to handle a large number of distress calls and queries from seafarers and their families. Since its activation, it has processed over 10,800 calls and over 24,000 emails.“The control room set up in the Directorate General of Shipping has handled over 10,800 calls and over 24,098 emails since its activation. In the last 96 hours, a total of 500 calls and 1,332 emails have been received from seafarers, their families and maritime stakeholders. The Ministry has facilitated the safe return of over 3,422 Indian seafarers so far through the Directorate General of Shipping, including the last 47 from various Bay Area locations in 96 hours. Port operations across India are normal and no congestion has been reported,” Sharma said.The government has so far facilitated the return of more than 3,400 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region, including dozens who were evacuated in the last four days.Providing an update on the evacuation efforts, Additional Secretary (Gulf) Asim R Mahajan said the Indian mission remains in close touch with community organisations, businesses and local authorities to assist citizens affected by the regional crisis.“Advisories are being issued, which include information related to local government guidelines, flight and travel status, consular services and various welfare measures being taken for the community. Our missions are actively engaged with the resident Indian community, regularly interacting with Indian community associations, organisations, professional groups and Indian companies to address their concerns. The welfare of Indian seafarers in the region is a high priority for us. Our missions are providing all assistance to them, including coordination with local authorities and agencies, providing consular assistance and assisting with requests to return to India.”Mahajan said despite regional uncertainty, flight connectivity between India and most parts of the Gulf is operational. Airspace over the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait remains open, while services from Qatar and Iraq continue to operate with varying restrictions.“An update on flight status: The overall flight situation continues to improve with additional flights operating from the region to various destinations in India. UAE airspace is open; Indian and UAE carriers are operating flights from UAE to various destinations in India. Flights are operating from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to various destinations in India. Qatar’s airspace is partially open. Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo and Qatar Airways are operating flights from Qatar to various destinations in India. Kuwait airspace is open. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways are operating flights to various destinations in India. Indian carriers are also expected to resume operations between Kuwait and India soon. Bahrain airspace is open. Air India Express, IndiGo and Gulf Air are operating flights from Bahrain to various destinations in India. Iraq’s airspace remains open with limited flight operations to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India. Iran’s airspace is partially open,” Mahajan said.He reiterated the government’s advice against travel to Iran and said the Indian Embassy in Tehran has already facilitated the exit of thousands of Indian citizens from the neighboring land border crossing.“We have advised Indian citizens to avoid traveling to Iran and urged all those traveling there to leave with the cooperation of our embassy. So far, our Embassy in Tehran has facilitated the movement of 2,557 Indian nationals to and from Iran through land border routes. Israel’s airspace is open, and limited flight operations to destinations in the region have resumed, which can be used for onward travel to India,” he said.Mahajan said the government is focusing on the welfare and safety of Indians in the Gulf and West Asia, with embassies and consulates running round-the-clock helplines and coordinating with state governments and local authorities.“The Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring developments in the Gulf and West Asia region. Our efforts are focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the region. We are in constant touch with State Governments and Union Territories to share information and coordinate our efforts. Our Embassies and Consulates in the region are operating round-the-clock helplines to provide timely assistance to Indian citizens. They are actively assisting our citizens and are also in close contact with local governments.”The development comes amid concerns that any disruption in the Gulf could affect India’s energy supplies, given the region’s importance in the country’s crude oil imports.Addressing those concerns, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi is working to secure its energy needs by broadening its sourcing strategy.“On the question of shipments, energy security is very important to us, and we are trying to diversify our sources from around the world,” Jaiswal said. “We welcome support from various markets.”

US President Donald Trump’s latest medical report released on Friday described the 79-year-old President as being in ‘excellent health’ and fully capable of carrying out the duties of Commander-in-Chief. However, his physician also advised him to lose weight and increase physical activity as part of preventive health measures.The report was released by White House physician Dr. Sean Barbella following Trump’s routine medical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Tuesday. According to assessments, the President is physically and cognitively fit despite his 80th birthday next month.Barbabella said Trump underwent a comprehensive evaluation involving 22 experts, including CT scans, cardiac imaging, cancer screening and a series of preventive evaluations, AFP reported. “President Trump remains in excellent health, demonstrating strong cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological and overall physical function,” the doctor wrote. He said the President is “fully fit to discharge all the duties of Commander-in-Chief and Head of State”.In a post on Twitter, Rapid Response welcomed the report, writing, ‘President Trump’s health remains excellent.’ The report revealed that Trump currently weighs 238 pounds (108 kg), up from 224 pounds (101.6 kg) during his last annual exam in April 2025. The 6 feet 3 inches tall President was advised to focus on losing weight, maintaining a healthy diet and increasing physical activity. Barbabella said preventive counseling was provided, including guidance on continued weight loss and heart health.The report also noted that Trump currently takes three medications, including two cholesterol-control drugs and a low-dose aspirin prescribed for heart prevention.One of the most closely watched sections of the report addressed recurring questions about visible bruising on Trump’s hands, which has captured public attention in recent months. According to Barbabella, the injury is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation caused by frequent hand shaking while taking aspirin, which may increase injury susceptibility.“Examination of the dorsal hands revealed ecchymosis (bruising), consistent with minor soft tissue irritation related to repetitive hand shaking in the setting of aspirin use for cardiovascular prevention,” the memo said.The medical update comes amid increasing scrutiny of Trump’s health as he becomes the oldest US president in history. There had been speculation since last year that he had bruises on his hands, swelling in his legs, he appeared sleepy during some public events and a rash broke out on his neck earlier this year.The White House previously revealed that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common age-related condition that affects blood circulation in the legs. Officials also said the neck rashes seen in March were linked to preventive skin treatments, though no further details were provided.Trump and his allies have consistently dismissed suggestions of any significant health concerns. The President has often highlighted his stamina and mental intensity, with physical fitness becoming an important part of his public image throughout his political career.The health disclosures of US presidents have come under greater scrutiny in recent years, particularly after widespread concerns about the fitness of former US President Joe Biden. Against that backdrop, Trump’s latest medical reports are likely to be closely scrutinized as he continues to hold the presidency as he nears his 80th birthday.Despite recommending weight loss and increased exercise, Barbella’s overall assessment remained clear, stating that Trump’s ‘cognitive and physical performance is excellent’ and that he is perfectly fit to lead the United States.

FC Barcelona have completed their first signing of the transfer window after Newcastle United made a huge move for the England winger, officially unveiling Anthony Gordon on Friday. The 25-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the Spanish champions, with the deal reportedly worth an initial €80 million plus add-ons.

This transfer is another important statement from Barcelona as they continue to reshape their squad based on a young core based on recent domestic success.

“I’ve been excited to play for Barça since I was three years old,” Gordon said during his unveiling, as quoted by Reuters. “I wanted to speak Spanish because, as a child, I believed I would play football for Barça. I used to say every day to my physio at Newcastle, ‘One day I will play for Barça,’ so I want to learn Spanish.”

Gordon left Newcastle after a useful spell in the Premier League, scoring 39 goals and providing 28 assists in 152 appearances since joining from Everton in 2023. He also helped the club end its 70-year trophy drought by winning the League Cup last season.

“I wanted to speak Spanish this time,” said a pleased Gordon, speaking in partially fluent Spanish. “It’s very exciting to play with players like Lamine Yamal. The more quality players you have around you, the better you become. They are the best in the world.”

More movement on the sides?

Barcelona rely on Gordon’s pace, intensity and direct attacking style A new dimension will be added to their front line. He followed a strong season scoring 17 goals in all competitions, including 10 goals in 12 Champions League matches.

In their official statement, the club highlighted his consistency and performances against them in Europe. “He comes to the club after being the top scorer and player with the most dribbles with Newcastle United last season. Gordon impressed in his three appearances against Barca in the Champions League last season.”

Gordon had attracted the interest of several top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, who was linked earlier in the window. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe also admitted that discussions were ongoing about his future, suggesting a summer exit was possible.

instead, Barcelona secured his signatureAnother England international has been added to the growing overseas squad alongside Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Ivan Toney.

– ends

New Delhi: India continues to make progress in reducing child undernutrition and improving maternal and child health, but rising obesity and diabetes are emerging as a major new public health challenge, according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) 2023-24 released on Friday.The survey found that the proportion of women aged 15-49 who were overweight or obese increased from 24% in NFHS-5 (2019-21) to 30.7% in NFHS-6, while for men the figure increased from 22.9% to 27.3%. The share of women with high blood sugar levels or taking medication to control diabetes increased from 13.5% to 17.8%, while among men it increased from 15.6% to 20.9%.This trend was visible in many states. Obesity is highest in Andhra Pradesh, where 47.9% of women aged 15-49 are classified as overweight or obese and 21.8% have high blood sugar levels or are taking medication for diabetes. Surprisingly high levels were also reported in Goa, where 45.1% of women and 43.6% of men were overweight or obese, while more than a quarter of women (27.5%) and almost a third of men (32.1%) had elevated blood sugar levels or were taking medication to control diabetes. In Delhi, 42.7% women were overweight or obese and 19% had elevated blood sugar levels.The findings show that India is increasingly facing a double burden of disease. While undernutrition remains a challenge in some parts of the country, obesity, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases associated with changing diets, sedentary lifestyles and aging are increasing rapidly.Also, the survey recorded significant improvements in child nutrition. The proportion of stunted children under five years of age, a key indicator of chronic undernutrition, declined from 35.5% in NFHS-5 to 29.3% in NFHS-6. Severe wasting, which reflects acute malnutrition, fell sharply from 7.7% to 5.2%, while the prevalence of underweight declined marginally from 32.1% to 31.8%.Maternal and child health indicators also improved. The number of mothers receiving at least four prenatal care visits increased from 58.5% to 65.2%, while consumption of iron-folic acid supplements for at least 180 days during pregnancy increased from 26% to 37.8%. Institutional deliveries increased from 88.6% to 90.6%.Childhood vaccination coverage continued to improve. Full vaccination among children aged 12-23 months increased from 76.6% to 82.6%, while coverage of the second dose of measles vaccine increased from 58.6% to 71.8%. Rotavirus vaccine coverage more than doubled from 36.4% to 85.4%.The survey also noted widespread social benefits. The number of women who had ever used the Internet nearly doubled from 33.3% to 64.3%, while the proportion of women with 10 or more years of schooling increased from 41% to 46.4%. Child marriage decreased from 23.3% to 20.1%.Operational in approximately 6.79 lakh households, NFHS-6 is expected to guide future health and social sector policies and programs across the country.

NSA Ajit Doval, Russian President’s aide Patrushev review maritime, defense cooperation

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Met Russian officials in Moscow on Friday and reviewed progress on key bilateral initiatives in maritime connectivity, shipbuilding, defense cooperation and training of sailors for polar operations.Doval held talks with Nikolai Patrushev, aide to the President and Chairman of the Maritime Board of Russia, assessing the proposals discussed during Patrushev’s visit to New Delhi in November 2025.The Indian Embassy in Russia said the two sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments.Earlier in the day, Doval met First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and reviewed bilateral cooperation in defence, energy, space and other sectors. The Russian side organized a visit to its National Space Center and Roscosmos Joint Industry Information Centre.Doval also met his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Security Council, on the sidelines of the first International Security Forum and reviewed ongoing cooperation in defence, security, energy and economic relations. The embassy said the two sides also discussed the upcoming BRICS NSA meeting in New Delhi.In his speech at the forum, Doval called for special attention to the situation in West Asia, and stressed the need to ensure secure and uninterrupted flow of trade through international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.Doval said, “Secure and uninterrupted movement of international trade through international waterways is essential for the global economy. India stands ready to contribute constructively to support all efforts to help de-escalate tensions and restore stability.”He expressed concern over the disruption in oil and gas supply affecting the global economy.On the sidelines of the forum, Doval also met Myanmar’s National Security Advisor Tin Aung San. They reviewed cooperation in security, defence, connectivity and other areas and exchanged views on regional development. Myanmar NSAs will visit India in July for the 5th BIMSTEC NSAs meeting.The Arctic route, promoted by Russia as an alternative Asia-Europe corridor, could reduce shipping times and give India greater access to Arctic resources and trade networks. This is in line with India’s aim to diversify maritime connectivity away from chokepoints such as the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz.Based on inputs from ANI

Candace Owens sparked a heated online debate after criticizing Erica Kirk for sharing personal letters and notes written by her late husband Charlie Kirk as part of fundraising efforts. Owens described the move as “tasteless” and accused Kirk of using grief for financial gain. While critics agreed that private correspondence should remain private, supporters argued that the post was a heartfelt tribute that honored Charlie Kirk’s memory and consoled others experiencing loss.

A social media controversy began this week when conservative commentator Candace Owens publicly attacked Erica Kirk for sharing personal notes and letters written by her late husband. charlie kirk. The conversation spread throughout X, drawing sharp reactions from fans and critics alike, as questions about grief and privacy and public fundraising began to swirl.The controversy began when Erica Kirk posted emotional thoughts about Charlie Kirk, along with photos of hand-written notes she wrote during their marriage. While many followers saw the post as an intimate tribute to their relationship, Owens claimed that the move crossed a line, especially because the content was linked to fundraising efforts.

Candace Owens calls out Erica Kirk charlie kirk letter

Owens had no hesitation in criticizing. In a widely circulated post he wrote:“Sharing your deceased husband’s private letters for the express purpose of fundraising is as tasteless as it is classless and I have no patience for those pretending otherwise. There is nothing beautiful in it. This is shameless emotional-manipulation for money, made worse by the fact that these e-mails weren’t even written by him.”The comments immediately started a discussion on the net. Some users agreed with Owens, saying that private correspondence should remain private, especially after the death of a loved one. Others pushed back, saying that bereaved families should be free to honor and remember their loved ones as they see fit.This debate reflects a larger tension that often occurs when public figures share intensely personal moments with huge audiences. One person sees a touching tribute, another sees an inappropriate use of personal memories.

Erica Kirk’s tribute to Charlie Kirk resonates with supporters

The controversy centers around alleged handwritten notes left by Charlie Kirk for Erica during everyday moments of their married life. She told her followers about the small acts of affection he does for her, later discussing their relationship and its impact on her life.Supporters of Erica Kirk argue that the posts offer a glimpse of the human side of a public figure. He believes that these letters help preserve Charlie Kirk’s legacy as well as provide solace to those who are dealing with loss and grief in their lives.But critics say that personal writing is never for public consumption and should remain private, no matter the circumstances.And with responses still coming in, the conversation has shifted from notes to drawing the line between honoring a loved one’s memory and sharing intimate moments in the public sphere. The Erica Kirk, Charlie Kirk, Candace Owens debate is not stopping yet.

RSS publicity chief Sunil Ambekar has dismissed concerns over the “cockroach Janata Party” (CJP), saying open debate and differing views are normal in a democratic society.Speaking to reporters, Ambekar said India is a conscious society that functions through democratic processes with transparent elections, free media and active public debate. He said that there is open discussion every day and different views should be seen as a natural feature of a democratic system.“We are a conscious society and we follow the democratic process. Within that democratic process, we have transparent elections, an open media and now social media too. Open houses happen every day. Therefore I believe that in a democracy any kind of discussion and expression of different opinions by people should not be taken as a shock. “They should be considered part of the normal process,” Ambekar said on Friday.Asked whether the RSS should react to such discussions, Ambekar said the country’s institutions, media and political parties are capable of handling such issues on their own.“These are all negotiations, and the people involved will deal with those issues themselves. I believe the media is independent enough to handle these. Political parties are capable, and none of our institutions are weak. They are capable of handling matters, and our system is also capable. So, I don’t think the organization (RSS) needs to rush into matters immediately,” he said.Ambekar also praised the youth of the country and said that they are optimistic about the future of India and are contributing to the country’s progress through constitutional means.He said, “Our young generation, sometimes called Gen Z, is very optimistic. They have tremendous faith in India. Whatever they do is under the constitutional process. Their contribution is to take India forward. The youth of our country have put all their energy into it and that is why the country is progressing in every field.”Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), a satirical online movement that has gained popularity among young users since its launch this month, has sparked widespread discussion.