US VP Harris says Israel’s deadly strike in Rafah was beyond tragic
US Vice President Kamala Harris described the Israeli airstrike in Rafah, which killed 45 Palestinians, as “beyond tragic.” The US expressed deep sorrow and pledged to closely monitor Israel’s investigation, which claimed the strike targeted Hamas militants and used minimal force. The Pentagon suspended aid to Gaza due to pier damage, while UN Secretary-General Guterres condemned the strike, urging for humanitarian access. A French lawmaker was suspended for waving a Palestinian flag in parliament. Israel denied its munitions caused the fire, suspecting nearby weapons ignited. WHO warned a full incursion could disable Rafah’s last hospital.
‘Nothing to do with army’: PTI disassociates Imran from controversial 1971 X post
PTI distanced Imran Khan from a controversial post on the 1971 civil war and the Hamoodur Rahman Commission Report, emphasizing it wasn’t aimed at the military but had a political context. The post, managed by his team while Khan is incarcerated, referenced historical events and criticized current leadership. This drew backlash, particularly from PPP and PML-N leaders, who accused PTI of incitement. PTI clarified that Khan encouraged reading the report to learn from history and denied any anti-military stance. They reiterated the post’s political context, not military, and stressed that Khan doesn’t control all social media content.
Spain, Ireland and Norway recognise Palestinian state
Spain, Ireland, and Norway officially recognized the Palestinian state on May 28, 2024, in a coordinated move criticized by Israel as a “reward” for Hamas amidst ongoing Gaza conflict. This symbolic gesture aims to encourage other nations to follow suit and keep Middle East peace prospects alive. Ireland’s Prime Minister Simon Harris and Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide highlighted the significance for peace, while Spain’s leadership insisted the decision was not against Israel but essential for a two-state solution. The recognition brings the total to 145 UN member states acknowledging Palestinian statehood.
Nawaz reclaims ‘N’ in PML-N after 6 years
Nawaz Sharif was re-elected unopposed as PML-N president after six years, following his acquittal in graft cases. He emphasized the significance of overturning former chief justice Saqib Nisar’s disqualification decision and praised party members for their resilience. Nawaz lauded his brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, for his loyalty and government performance, urging commitment for future prosperity. Shehbaz criticized the injustices faced by Nawaz and accused PTI founder Imran Khan of electoral rigging. The intra-party elections coincided with Pakistan’s nuclear power celebration, highlighting the unity and strength within PML-N.
Lahore ATC remands PTI’s Shah Mahmood Qureshi for 9 more days in May 9 cases
A Lahore anti-terrorism court extended PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s physical remand by nine days in eight cases related to the May 9 violence following Imran Khan’s arrest. Qureshi’s lawyer, Rana Mudassar, opposed the extension requested by the police, who claimed they needed more time for forensic tests and to recover Qureshi’s mobile phone. The court granted the remand, citing the need for photogrammetry and voice matching tests. Qureshi, implicated in 12 cases from the May 9 violence, contends his innocence and claims the charges are intended to delay his release. The hearing was adjourned until June 5.
On Youm-i-Takbeer, Pakistani leaders hail nation’s ‘unwavering determination’ under ‘bold leadership’
On Youm-i-Takbeer, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Acting President Yusuf Raza Gilani praised Pakistan’s “unwavering determination” and “bold leadership” under former premier Nawaz Sharif, marking the day when Pakistan became a nuclear power in 1998. The day was declared a public holiday, starting with special prayers. Rallies were held, and social media celebrated with the hashtag “Hum28MayWalayHain.” Leaders highlighted the importance of nuclear deterrence and the contributions of scientists and past leaders, including Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto. The armed forces and various political figures reaffirmed their commitment to national defense and peace.
PM Shehbaz orders swift action to control another fire at Margalla Hills
A fire broke out in Islamabad’s Margalla Hills on May 28, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to order swift action to control it. The blaze, initially occurring in Trail-3 of the Saidpur range, spread to Trail-5 in the Noorpur range. Over 65 firefighters, supported by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and wildlife teams, are working to extinguish it. Gusty winds and hot weather complicate efforts. The Environment Director General and CDA Chairman are overseeing operations, with helicopters and local firefighters also involved. Margalla Hills National Park experiences frequent fires, damaging forests and causing pollution.
England captain Buttler to miss third Pakistan T20 for birth of child
England captain Jos Buttler will miss the third T20 International against Pakistan for the birth of his third child. Buttler led England to a 23-run win at Edgbaston, securing a 1-0 lead in the four-match series after the first game in Leeds was washed out. Moeen Ali will captain in Buttler’s absence. Pakistan aims to win to boost confidence for the T20 World Cup. A victory is crucial after their 23-run defeat and the washout. It’s unclear if Buttler will return for the final match at The Oval. England departs for the T20 World Cup in the US and West Indies on Friday.
12 Indians killed in quarry collapse after cyclone rains
Torrential rains from Cyclone Remal caused a quarry collapse in Mizoram, India, killing 12 people, with rescue efforts hampered by heavy rains. Mizoram’s Chief Minister announced compensation for victims’ families. President Droupadi Murmu prayed for successful rescue operations. Landslides disrupted highways and schools, and government employees were asked to work from home. India’s weather office warned of heavy rainfall in northeastern states. In Assam, one person died, and power outages occurred. Overall, the cyclone killed at least 38 people across India and Bangladesh, with 21 deaths in India and 17 in Bangladesh.
Rohit, Kohli in focus as India look to end title drought at T20 World Cup
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli aim to break India’s title drought at the T20 World Cup, potentially their last chance for a major win. India’s last major victory was in 2013. Despite reaching the ODI World Cup final last year, they lost to Australia. Kohli’s impressive IPL performance suggests he could open in the World Cup. Rohit faces pressure after a patchy IPL season. Both have been part of past World Cup triumphs but haven’t secured a title recently. India faces Pakistan, Canada, USA, and Ireland in the group stage, with expectations high for their knockout stage performance.
