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Israel operated secret base in Iraq for attacks on Iran: WSJ

Israel operated secret base in Iraq for attacks on Iran: WSJ

NEW YORK, May 10: Israel built a clandestine military base in the Iraqi desert to support its air campaign against Iran and launched airstrikes against Iraqi troops who nearly discovered it, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Saturday.

Citing people familiar with the matter including U.S. officials, the newspaper said Israel set up the installation, which housed special forces and served as a logistical hub for the Israeli air force, with the knowledge of the U.S. just before the start of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran.

The Israeli outpost also included search-and-rescue teams positioned to assist any downed Israeli pilots, the Journal said.

The report said that after a US F-15 fighter jet was downed near Isfahan, Israel offered assistance, but US forces rescued the two crew members independently. Israeli forces nevertheless carried out airstrikes to help secure the mission, according to the report.

The base nearly came to light in early March after Iraqi state media reported that a shepherd had observed suspicious military activity in the area, including helicopter movements, prompting Iraqi troops to investigate.

According to the report, Israel responded with airstrikes that prevented Iraqi forces from reaching the site.

Israel’s military declined to comment on the report, according to the report.

The Iraq government at the time condemned the attack, which killed an Iraqi soldier.

“This reckless operation was carried out without coordination or approval,” Qais Al-Muhammadawi, deputy commander of Iraq’s Joint Operations Command, told Iraqi state media following the March incident.

Regional tensions have sharply escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, triggering Iranian retaliation against Israel and American allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, though US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad failed to produce a permanent agreement. Trump later announced an extension of the truce without setting a deadline.

Religious scholars vow continued support for Pakistan’s defense at Bunyan-um-Marsoos seminar

Religious scholars vow continued support for Pakistan’s defense at Bunyan-um-Marsoos seminar

ABBOTTABAD, May 10: Religious scholars and speakers at a seminar held to mark the successful completion of one year of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos reaffirmed their unwavering support for the defense of Pakistan, protection of the Holy Mosque, and solidarity with the Pakistan Armed Forces, stating that the entire nation stands united against internal and external threats.

The seminar was organized at the Abbottabad Press Club under the auspices of Ittehad Ahle Sunnat Pakistan, District Abbottabad. The event was presided over by District President Habib-ur-Rehman, while Vice President Maulana Sarfaraz Farooqi and District Khateeb Abbottabad Maulana Hameed-ur-Rehman attended as special guests and addressed the gathering.

The speakers highlighted the achievements and positive outcomes of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, saying that safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and defending the Holy Mosque are fundamental obligations for every Muslim. They emphasized that the sacrifices rendered for the protection of the country’s ideological and geographical frontiers would never go in vain.

They further stated that unity among the Muslim Ummah is essential to defeat external conspiracies and internal challenges facing the country. The participation of representatives from various political parties and schools of thought reflected a collective commitment of religious and social leadership towards national defense and stability.

The speakers also pledged to continue efforts for the promotion of peace, harmony, and Islamic values in the country. At the conclusion of the seminar, special prayers were offered for the security and prosperity of Pakistan and for the success of the personnel who participated in the operation.

Azerbaijan Embassy in Islamabad honors National Leader Heydar Aliyev on 103rd Birth Anniversary

Azerbaijan Embassy in Islamabad honors National Leader Heydar Aliyev on 103rd Birth Anniversary

ISLAMABAD, MAY 10 /DNA/ – On the occasion of the 103rd birth anniversary of Azerbaijan’s National Leader Heydar Aliyev, a solemn flower-laying ceremony was held at his bust located at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Islamabad, Pakistan.

The event served as a mark of deep respect, remembrance, and gratitude for the late leader’s monumental contributions to the Azerbaijani state.

Embassy officials and staff gathered to pay tribute to the architect of modern Azerbaijan, whose political vision and leadership laid the foundation for the country’s independence, development, and international standing.

As highlighted by Khazar Farhadov Ambassador of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev’s enduring legacy “remains a guiding light for Azerbaijan.” The ceremony reaffirmed the strong fraternal ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, with participants underscoring that Aliyev’s principles continue to inspire bilateral cooperation and mutual support between the two nations.

Iran sends response to us proposal to end war via Pakistan

Iran sends response to us proposal to end war via Pakistan

Supreme leader briefs military chief on new guiding measures for operations: Report

TEHRA, MAY 10 – Iranian state media reported on Sunday that Tehran has delivered its official response to the latest US proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war in the region, using Pakistan as a mediator.

According to the official Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), “The Islamic Republic of Iran sent through Pakistani mediators its response to the latest text proposed by the United States to end the war.” Details of Iran’s position were not disclosed, but the framework reportedly focuses on negotiations to halt the conflict that began in late February 2026.

Pakistan has confirmed receipt of the Iranian response, according to reports from Islamabad.

Parallel Military PostureIn a separate development reported by semi-official Fars News Agency, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei met with Major General Ali Abdollahi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (the unified command of Iran’s armed forces).

During the meeting, General Abdollahi briefed the Supreme Leader on the high combat readiness of Iran’s forces—including the regular army, IRGC, Basij, and other branches—to confront any potential US-Israeli actions. Khamenei reportedly issued “new guiding measures to pursue military operations and firmly confront adversaries.”

The armed forces declared they remain “ready to confront any action by the American-Zionist enemies.”

These developments come amid indirect US-Iran talks mediated by Pakistan. The US has pushed for a permanent end to hostilities, reportedly including elements related to Iran’s nuclear program and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has been reviewing proposals while maintaining a firm military stance.

No immediate details on the content of Iran’s response or potential next steps in negotiations have been released. Markets and regional actors are closely watching for signs of de-escalation or continued tensions.

KS relief successfully concludes

KS relief successfully concludes

ISLAMABAD, MAY 10 (DNA): The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has completed the final phase of the Food Security Support Project 2025–26 in Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing humanitarian efforts to combat food insecurity and support vulnerable communities across the country about 195,487 individual were benefited in 31 districts across Pakistan.

Under this nationwide initiative, food assistance was delivered across multiple regions, covering a total of 31 districts, including 10 districts in Punjab, 5 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 7 in Balochistan, 6 in Sindh, and 3 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The project aimed to ensure the timely provision of essential food supplies to the most deserving and food-insecure households.

As part of the final phase, KSrelief distributed thousands of food packages among vulnerable families. Each package, weighing 97 kilograms, included essential food items such as 80 kg of flour, 5 liters of cooking oil, 5 kg of sugar, 5 kg of daal chana, and 2 kg of dates, providing critical nutritional support to beneficiary households.

The distribution process was carried out in close coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), district administrations, and KSrelief’s implementing partners, Hayat Foundation and a peace and development organization. The entire operation was conducted in a transparent, efficient, and well-organized manner to ensure that assistance reached the intended beneficiaries.

This project reflects KSrelief’s steadfast commitment to strengthening food security in Pakistan and delivering timely humanitarian assistance to those most in need. It also underscores the Centre’s broader global mission to alleviate human suffering and promote sustainable development in vulnerable communities worldwide.=DNA

Mother’s Day celebrations go digital with heartfelt tributes

Mother’s Day celebrations go digital with heartfelt tributes

ISLAMABAD, MAY 10 (DNA): Across social media platforms, the Mother’s Day has gained momentum as a trending celebration, with citizens sharing emotional tributes, videos and memories, while Gen Z also shows growing interest in online gifts, flowers, cakes and promotional deals.    

Online platforms are witnessing a surge in activity as citizens share emotional posts, videos, and memories dedicated to their mothers, turning social media into a vibrant space of love, gratitude and celebration.

Citizens, including girls and young users are actively engaging in comments, reacting to posts, discussing the latest Mother’s Day trends and expressing appreciation for heartfelt tributes circulating across digital platforms. 

Shop sellers are also actively participating in comments, promoting their latest Mother’s Day offers and highlighting discounts on cakes, flowers, and customized gift packages to attract customers.    

These online interactions have created a strong wave of engagement, with users contributing personal stories and joining broader conversations around motherhood and appreciation.         

Sellers on e-commerce and social media platforms are rolling out special Mother’s Day campaigns, offering attractive discounts and limited-time deals widely shared across online spaces. 

Gen Z, in particular, is playing a key role in driving this digital trend, actively participating in both emotional tributes and online shopping activities.          

Overall, the combination of heartfelt celebrations, active social engagement, and festive discount offers has turned Mother’s day into a major online cultural and commercial event.  

An online seller said, “We are offering a wide range of variety for Mother’s Day gifts, and it creates a sense of love, care, and emotional connection among families celebrating the occasion.”

A flower shop seller commented that prices tend to rise on this day due to the high demand, as Mother’s Day celebrations drive a significant increase in orders for flowers and gift arrangements.

Various local brands and restaurants are also offering special Mother’s Day deals, attracting strong interest from Gen Z with attractive discounts, gift bundles and festive dining offers.

Overall, the occasion has evolved into a vibrant blend of emotional celebration and commercial activity across digital and local markets.=DNA

PHF enforces zero tolerance policy on doping violations in national camps

PHF announces squad for Azalan Shah Hockey Cup

ISLAMABAD, May 10 (DNA): Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has announced a strict zero-tolerance policy against anti-doping violations in its national junior and senior hockey camps, reinforcing its commitment to clean sport and athlete integrity.

Acting on special directives issued by PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani, revised guidelines have been circulated for ongoing training camps in Lahore and Islamabad. The move is aimed at ensuring full compliance with international anti-doping standards set by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

According to the official communication, any player found attempting to avoid or violate doping regulations will face immediate suspension from the camp and strict disciplinary action. The federation emphasized that no leniency will be shown in such cases.

Under the new framework, all players will be required to submit written undertakings confirming full compliance with the WADA Code. Random and unannounced doping tests will be conducted throughout the training period, while WADA officials will actively monitor camp activities.

In addition, weekly educational sessions will be held to raise awareness among players regarding prohibited substances and anti-doping protocols. Camp commanders and coaching staff have also been instructed to ensure that no athlete evades testing procedures under any circumstances.

PHF President stated that doping-related incidents damage Pakistan’s reputation on the international stage. He stressed that maintaining the country’s rich hockey legacy requires transparent, mandatory, and uncompromising implementation of anti-doping measures.

“These directives are being implemented with immediate effect to safeguard the integrity of Pakistan hockey and protect the careers of our athletes,” he added.

Qatar says cargo vessel coming from Abu Dhabi attacked in its waters

Qatar says cargo vessel coming from Abu Dhabi attacked in its waters

DOHA, MAY 10: A cargo vessel was attacked by a drone on Sunday in Qatari waters northeast of Mesaieed port as the ship travelled from Abu Dhabi, causing a limited fire that was contained, the Qatari Defense Ministry said.

No injuries were reported and the vessel continued its journey towards the port.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said earlier a bulk carrier had reported being struck by an unknown projectile while sailing 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha, the capital of Qatar.

Authorities are investigating the source of the projectile, UKMTO said. The statement by Qatar’s Defense Ministry did not specify the origin of the drone.

Vessels in the area have been advised to transit with caution.

Ships in the Gulf have been attacked by Iran since the US and Israel launched air strikes on Iran on February 28.

The Strait of Hormuz, the vital energy-trade chokepoint that connects Gulf oil producers to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, has been virtually closed since.

Separately, a Qatari tanker crossed the Strait towards Pakistan on Sunday, while Washington continued to wait for Tehran’s response to its latest proposals to begin peace talks.

Any future aggression will have far-reaching consequences, warns CDF Munir on Marka-e-Haq anniversary

Any future aggression will have far-reaching consequences, warns CDF Munir on Marka-e-Haq anniversary

ISLAMABAD, MAY 10: Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir warned that any future aggression against Pakistan would have “far-reaching and painful consequences” as the country marked one year since Marka-e-Haq.

“Pakistan, its people, and armed forces achieved a remarkable success in Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos with divine help, while the enemy suffered defeat and humiliation,” he said while addressing a special ceremony held at the General Headquarters (GHQ), Rawalpindi, to commemorate the first anniversary of the May war against India, in which Islamabad humiliated New Delhi.

CDF Munir, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu, and Admiral Ashraf laid floral wreaths at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Martyrs’ Monument), while contingents from the three armed forces presented a ceremonial salute.

On May 6-7 last year, India launched an unprovoked attack on Pakistan, following an attack on tourists in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan, during the 87-hour conflict, downed eight Indian fighter jets, including French-made Rafale, and dozens of drones. The war between the two nuclear-armed nations ended on May 10 with a ceasefire agreement brokered by the US.

Addressing the special ceremony, CDF Munir said the day was a matter of pride for the entire nation, adding that the success demonstrated the country’s strength, unity, and resolve in the face of challenges.

He pointed out that Marka-e-Haq was not merely a war between two countries but a decisive battle between “two ideologies” in which truth ultimately prevailed.

The army chief said the confrontation from the night of May 6-7 until May 10 was an unsuccessful attempt by the enemy to test Pakistan’s national resolve and dignity.

Field Marshal Munir said Pakistan, its people, and the armed forces achieved an unparalleled victory in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos with the blessings of Allah.

He said that falsehood faced defeat in the battle, while Pakistan emerged successful with unity, resolve, and professional capability.

‘Never allow India’s dream to materialise’
“India’s dream was to subject Pakistan to military aggression and diplomatic isolation,” he said, adding that India wanted to isolate Pakistan and alter the balance of power in the region.

CDF Munir said that India’s ambitions were far beyond its stature and capabilities, noting that Pakistan would never allow India’s “dream” to materialise.

The army chief also said the enemy had forgotten that Pakistan’s armed forces had never bowed to the dominance of power in the past and would never do so in the future.

“The entire nation stood like a solid wall in the defence of the homeland,” he said, noting that when Indian missiles fell, a large number of people came out in support of the country’s defence.

He also paid tribute to the unarmed women, elderly people, and innocent children martyred during Marka-e-Haq.

“Pakistan regarded the sacrifices of its martyrs as a sacred trust and viewed its strength as a responsibility,” he said, adding that the country considered its success a blessing from Allah.

‘No compromise on Pakistan’s sovereignty’
Field Marshal Munir said the message from the people and national leadership was clear: no compromise on Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity.

He also said the battle was not only won on the battlefield but also at the national level across all sectors. He further said that the brave “Shaheens” [Air force personnel] set an example of the longest and most decisive war of the modern era.

CDF Munir said that the Shaheens shot down the enemy’s advanced warplanes and destroyed its installations.

“India suffered severe human and financial losses as a result of the conflict,” he said, adding that the enemy would continue to pay the price of this loss in the times to come.

He said that Pakistan’s strategic missiles and Shaheen systems had successfully struck more than 26 enemy military targets.

“Alhamdulillah! Today, Pakistan’s defence is fully impregnable against any external aggression,” CDF Munir said, warning that any future hostile action against Pakistan will have serious, far-reaching, and painful consequences.

Global recognition
Reflecting on the past year, he said that Pakistan’s national prestige has grown, earning global recognition, and the country now has more friends than ever before.

Field Marshal Munir also highlighted a strategic mutual defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, calling it a “historic step” in advancing mutual security and diplomatic achievements.

Speaking on Islamabad’s efforts to bring the United States and Iran to the negotiation table, the field marshal said that Pakistan is currently hosting historic peace talks, demonstrating effective, responsible, and neutral diplomacy on the global stage.

He said that Pakistan has earned the gratitude of the leadership of the United States and Iran, particularly the US President, for its role in facilitating sensitive diplomatic efforts.

“Pakistan continues to strive diligently to honour the trust through sincere efforts. Both countries have placed their trust in Pakistan for this challenging task,” he added.

Afghanistan urged to rein in terrorists
CDF Munir also said that India, having ruled out conventional warfare against Pakistan, is resorting to terrorism. He urged Afghanistan to eliminate terrorist camps and safe havens within its territory.

Paying tribute to the bravery of Pakistani citizens, the armed forces, and law enforcement agencies, he especially commended personnel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

“We will avenge the blood of every innocent Pakistani,” he declared, adding that Pakistan’s fight against terrorism will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated.

‘No story of Pakistan complete without Kashmir’
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir, he said, “No story of Pakistan is complete without Kashmir,” and pledged to continue political, diplomatic, and moral support for the Kashmiri people on all fronts.

CDF Munir said that present and future wars will involve multi-domain operations, incorporating long-range weapons, drones, cyber capabilities, and artificial intelligence.

He added that the Defence Forces Headquarters has been established to align Pakistan’s armed forces with modern operational requirements.

Rizwan, Salman steady Pakistan after middle-order collapse in Dhaka Test

Rizwan, Salman steady Pakistan after middle-order collapse in Dhaka Test

DHAKA, MAY 10: Muhammad Rizwan and Agha Salman anchored Pakistan’s recovery effort, putting together a crucial 119-run stand for the sixth wicket after Green Shirts suffered a dramatic collapse against Bangladesh in the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.

Pakistan had slumped from 210-1 to 230-5 before Rizwan and Salman steadied the innings. Salman remained unbeaten on 55, while Rizwan was dismissed by Taijul Islam shortly before rain interrupted play.

At tea, Pakistan were 349-6, still trailing by 64 runs, with weather conditions forcing an early break in play.

Earlier in the day, the Green Shirts resumed at an overnight score of 179-1 with two debutants Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal at the crease and suffered the second blow when the former was dismissed by Taskin Ahmed.

Awais, however, completed his century and etched his name in the history of Test cricket by smashing a ton on his debut.

Captain Shan Mosood (9), Saud Shakeel (0) and Fazal (60) also perished in quick succession, leaving the visitors 230-5 before the Rizwan-Salman provided the recovery.

Pakistan, ended the second day’s play, comfortably by scoring 179-1 in 46 overs, with Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal unbeaten on 85 and 37 runs respectively.

Openers Imam-ul-Haq and Awais began their innings positively, finding the boundary early and building a composed foundation to ease pressure after Bangladesh’s imposing total score.

Earlier, Mohammad Abbas produced a five-wicket haul to bowl out the hosts for 413 in the 118th over early in the second session as Pakistan continued to chip away with disciplined seam bowling.

Litton Das was the first wicket on day two, dismissed by Abbas for 33 off 67 balls, hitting five boundaries. Mushfiqur Rahim held firm and brought up his 29th Test half-century, setting the tone for early breakthroughs on the second morning session.

Bangladesh lost wickets as Abbas removed Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 10 off 12 balls with one four and a six, then Taijul Islam for 17 off 23 balls with two fours, leaving 378-7 in 106.5 overs.

After lunch, Shaheen Afridi hit the stumps to end Mushfiqur Rahim’s 71 off 179 balls with eight boundaries, halting his resistance after a composed and patient knock.

Abbas completed his five-wicket haul by dismissing Ebadot Hossain for a duck, reducing Bangladesh to 384-9 in 110.5 overs.

Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana added useful runs, with Taskin striking a six off Abbas to take Bangladesh past 400 in the 115th over, putting pressure on the lower order.

Shaheen Afridi eventually wrapped up the innings by removing Taskin Ahmed for 28 off 19 balls with three fours and a six, ending a 29-run stand.

Mohammad Abbas finished with 5/92 in 34 overs, while Shaheen took three wickets. Hasan Ali and Noman Ali claimed one each.

On day one, Bangladesh dominated through skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque, frustrating Pakistan’s attack across three sessions. Shaheen Afridi removed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for eight off 19 balls with two boundaries.

Hasan Ali then dismissed Shadman Islam for 13 off 30 balls, leaving Bangladesh at 31-2 in 10.1 overs before Mominul and Najmul Hossain rebuilt the innings strongly with a composed partnership.

Shanto reached his sixth Test fifty while Mominul brought up his 26th, with the stand crossing 100 runs and pushing Bangladesh beyond 200. He scored his ninth Test century before Abbas dismissed him for 101 off 130 balls with 12 fours and two sixes.

By tea, Bangladesh were 201-3 from 52.2 overs. Mushfiqur Rahim then joined Mominul, adding a partnership that took Bangladesh past 250.

Noman Ali removed Mominul for 91 off 200 balls with 10 boundaries. Rahim remained unbeaten with Litton Das as Bangladesh crossed 300 in the 84th over, ending day one and providing a solid platform for the remainder of the match situation going forward in the Test context.

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