Melania Trump has sparked debate online after sharing a Mother’s Day message centred on family, motherhood and balancing career ambitions with raising children.

In an opinion piece published over the weekend, the US First Lady reflected on the role mothers play in shaping children’s values and argued women should be able to pursue careers while keeping family life at the centre of their priorities.

“Yes, women can thrive in both motherhood and business,” Melania wrote, while stressing the importance of strong support systems to help balance both.

She also encouraged mothers to prioritise self-care, describing it as an important part of caring for loved ones rather than something selfish.

The message, however, quickly drew mixed reactions online.

Some critics argued the remarks felt disconnected from the realities many families face, particularly around rising living costs, childcare challenges and the pressures of balancing work with parenting.

Others took issue with Melania’s comments about restoring the value of motherhood, with some questioning whether the message reflected the experiences of working mothers.

The First Lady wrote that America should “restore the honour of motherhood” after years in which, she argued, feminism had often placed career above family.

That line, in particular, appeared to divide opinion.

Some social media users criticised the message as outdated, while others questioned whether someone in Melania Trump’s position could fully relate to the everyday pressures facing parents.

Yet many others rallied behind the First Lady’s remarks, praising the message as thoughtful and calling it a meaningful tribute to mothers.

Supporters also pointed to Melania’s long-standing emphasis on family life, particularly her role as a mother to son Barron Trump, now 20.

The First Lady has previously spoken publicly about parenting, saying children should be guided early in life before eventually being given independence.

“We teach them, we guide them, and then we give them the wings to fly,” she said during a previous television interview.

Melania also reiterated in her Mother’s Day piece that being a mother remains central to her identity, writing that her “first priority” is to be “a mom, a first lady, and a wife”.

The debate surrounding the message quickly spread online, underscoring how conversations around motherhood, family and career continue to divide opinion far beyond Mother’s Day.

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LONDON: King Charles III said on Wednesday the British government would uphold the country’s “unbreakable commitment” to NATO and its allies, as he outlined Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s legislative agenda during the State Opening of Parliament.

Delivering the King’s Speech in parliament, Charles set out a series of planned laws focused on defence, public services, infrastructure, trade and economic reform.

The King said the government would introduce measures aimed at strengthening the accountability and productivity of the civil service while safeguarding its impartiality and core values.

He also confirmed plans to introduce digital identification systems to modernise how citizens interact with public services.

Focus on child poverty, youth employment

The speech outlined government plans to address child poverty and rising youth unemployment.

Charles said ministers believed every child should have the opportunity to succeed regardless of poverty, special educational needs or access to vocational education.

The government would continue investing in apprenticeships and respond to the upcoming Milburn Review into youth unemployment, he added.

The King also said ministers would review recommendations from the Timms Review examining Britain’s Personal Independence Payment (PIP) welfare system.

Reforms planned for police, NHS and immigration

Charles said the government planned legislation to reform policing, the National Health Service and the criminal justice system.

Additional measures would seek to strengthen public confidence in immigration and asylum systems, clean up the water industry and establish Great British Railways.

Infrastructure, trade and EU ties prioritised

The King said Britain’s economic security depended on “world-class” infrastructure, outlining plans to support airport expansion, speed up major road projects including the Lower Thames Crossing, and advance Northern Powerhouse Rail projects in northern England.

He added that the government would also seek to safeguard domestic steel production and strengthen economic ties with the European Union.

On trade, Charles said improved international economic relations were vital and announced plans for legislation aimed at supporting British businesses, reducing late payments and easing unnecessary regulatory burdens through innovation.

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TEHRAN: A series of earthquakes struck areas near Tehran overnight, including a 4.6-magnitude tremor, renewing concerns among experts and residents over the risk of a major earthquake near the Iranian capital.

According to Iranian state media and the country’s seismological centre, at least nine small earthquakes were recorded in the Pardis area east of Tehran.

One of the tremors measured 4.6 magnitude and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres, state media reported.

Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB said no casualties or material damage had been reported from the seismic activity, which affected areas between Tehran and Mazandaran province.

Experts warn of growing seismic concerns

The repeated tremors revived concerns over tectonic pressure building beneath the capital, which lies close to several active fault lines.

The earthquakes were recorded near the Mosha fault, one of Iran’s most active seismic zones.

Seismologist Mehdi Zare told Mehr news agency it remained unclear whether the tremors represented a release of accumulated seismic energy or were warning signs of stronger activity ahead.

He warned that Tehran’s vulnerability was heightened by dense urban development, heavy population concentration and limited disaster preparedness.

Zare said even relatively small earthquakes could disrupt life in the capital because of fragile infrastructure and traffic congestion, complicating emergency response efforts.

Tehran located near active fault lines

Tehran, home to more than 14 million people, sits near several major fault systems including the North Tehran, Mosha and Rey faults.

Iranian experts have repeatedly warned that a major earthquake near the capital could have catastrophic consequences.

Iran is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. Memories remain strong of the 2003 2003 Bam earthquake, which killed more than 30,000 people.

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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday chaired a meeting to review government initiatives aimed at developing small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with officials briefing him on progress made by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority on implementing reform measures.

Sharif said that SMEs held significant potential for boosting Pakistan’s economic growth and exports, and welcomed efforts by SMEDA to expand access to easy loans, digital financing, formal economic inclusion and export markets.

He directed authorities to present a time-bound implementation plan with achievable targets and asked commercial banks to improve lending facilities for SMEs.

The prime minister also called for agriculture-related processing sectors to be granted SME status and stressed the need to improve women entrepreneurs’ access to financing and export opportunities.

Officials from SMEDA, the industries ministry and the State Bank of Pakistan briefed the meeting on measures being implemented across eight strategic sectors under a broader SME development plan.

The meeting was told that SMEDA was pursuing 48 initiatives aimed at achieving phased growth targets over the next two to four years, including expanding market access through exhibitions and roadshows, strengthening industrial value chains and establishing an SME database to support formal sector inclusion.

State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad said that private sector lending reached Rs1.1 trillion in the last fiscal year, while lending during the first three quarters of the current fiscal year had already exceeded the target of 904 billion rupees.

He said loans to SMEs had increased by 28 per cent, prompting authorities to raise the SME financing target from Rs1.1 trillion rupees to Rs1.5 trillion by fiscal year 2028.

Officials also informed the meeting that a dedicated export financing window had been established for SMEs, leading to 41 new enterprises joining the programme.

Sharif praised Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, the SMEDA team and the industries ministry for their efforts, and directed them to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for implementation of the reform measures.

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Michelle Heaton has revealed the devastating toll addiction took on her life, admitting alcohol once came before her husband and children during her darkest years.

The former Liberty X singer broke down in tears while reflecting on her battle with alcohol and drug addiction, admitting there were moments when she no longer wanted to wake up.

Speaking on Paul C Brunson’s We Need to Talk podcast, the 46-year-old said addiction gradually took over her life, leaving her unable to stop drinking even when she desperately wanted to.

“Alcohol stripped me away from all of that, it stripped me of the ability to care,” Heaton said.

“In that moment I loved the alcohol more [than my family], that’s the best way of putting it.”

Heaton, who shares children Faith and Aaron with husband Hugh Hanley, said her struggles began with binge eating before alcohol dependency took hold during her Liberty X years and later escalated into cocaine use.

She said things worsened after undergoing a mastectomy in 2012, describing the experience as one that left her feeling as though she was “losing my identity”.

Recalling the lowest point of her addiction, Heaton admitted there were times she no longer wanted to wake up and felt unable to escape.

The singer also revealed husband Hugh watched helplessly as her health deteriorated, while Katie Price later helped her take the first steps towards sobriety by encouraging her to seek rehab.

Now sober since 2021, Heaton recently marked five years of sobriety and continues to speak openly about addiction and recovery.

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ISLAMABAD/BEIJING: Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their longstanding strategic partnership and discussed regional peace efforts during a telephone conversation between Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

According to Pakistan’s foreign ministry, Dar described Pakistan-China friendship as “time-tested” and said the two countries had undertaken joint initiatives in multiple sectors including connectivity, infrastructure, energy and digital cooperation.

He said the leadership of both countries was working together to advance economic development and regional cooperation.

Dar described the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a “game-changing” project for Pakistan’s energy sector and said China was now moving towards establishing a “digital corridor” aimed at boosting technological and economic integration.

He added that Pakistan was working closely with China in sectors including education and healthcare while aligning younger generations with modern technological requirements.

“Pakistan’s digital economy is growing rapidly and the country is becoming an attractive destination for digital investment,” Dar said, adding that digital corridor cooperation between the two countries would create new opportunities for investment and employment.

He also said China had supported Pakistan whenever the country faced challenges.

China backs Pakistan mediation efforts

Separately, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Wang Yi commended Pakistan for facilitating talks between the United States and Iran and for helping extend the temporary ceasefire in the region.

According to the Chinese side, Wang expressed hope that Pakistan would continue mediation efforts and contribute to resolving issues related to the Strait of Hormuz and restoring regional peace.

He said China would continue supporting Pakistan’s diplomatic role and contribute to efforts aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East.

The remarks come amid heightened regional uncertainty and growing international concern over stability in the Gulf region and global energy routes.

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ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Railways on Wednesday presented details in the National Assembly of the planned upgrade of the 1,726-km Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway track from Karachi to Peshawar, with the project estimated to cost $6.66 billion.

According to official documents submitted to parliament, the strategic rail modernisation project will be executed in five phases.

Karachi-Rohri section to launch first

According to the ministry, the first phase will cover the 480-km Karachi-Rohri section, with construction expected to begin later this year following the groundbreaking ceremony.

The estimated cost of the Karachi-Rohri upgrade has been set at $2 billion, and the project is expected to be completed within three years.

Rohri-Multan, Multan-Lahore upgrades planned

In the second phase, authorities will upgrade the 449-km Rohri-Multan railway section at an estimated cost of $1.26 billion.

The ministry said work on that section is also expected to be completed within three years.

The third phase will involve the 334-km Multan-Lahore section, with an estimated cost of $880 million and a completion timeline of two years.

Lahore-Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi-Peshawar sections in final phases

Under the fourth phase, the 289-km Lahore-Rawalpindi railway track will be upgraded at an estimated cost of $1.56 billion.

The project is scheduled for completion within three years.

The fifth and final phase will cover the 174-km Rawalpindi-Peshawar section, with an estimated cost of $920 million and a projected completion period of two years.

The ML-1 project is considered Pakistan’s largest railway infrastructure initiative and is aimed at modernising the country’s rail network, improving train speeds and strengthening freight and passenger transport connectivity across the country.

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Jason Collins, the former NBA player who became the first openly gay active athlete in a major US men’s professional sports league, has died at 47 after a battle with brain cancer.

Collins died on Tuesday after what his family described as a “valiant fight” with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer he revealed publicly in 2025.

But the moment that came to define Collins’ life was one he later admitted he never wanted.

In 2013, Collins changed history when he publicly came out as gay in a landmark first-person essay for Sports Illustrated, becoming the first openly gay active male athlete in one of North America’s four major professional sports leagues.

The essay opened with a line that instantly became historic:

Yet behind that defining moment was a story Collins had spent years trying to understand privately.

Before publicly coming out, Collins had been engaged to former WNBA player Carolyn Moos following a long-term relationship. Years later, he reflected that he had once convinced himself the life expected of him might quiet feelings he had struggled with for much of his adult life.

Even before publicly speaking about his sexuality, Collins had quietly carried symbols of support with him. He wore No. 98 in tribute to Matthew Shepard, the University of Wyoming student murdered in a 1998 anti-gay hate crime, a detail many only discovered after Collins came out.

At the time of his announcement, same-sex marriage was not yet legal across the United States and openly gay male athletes in major professional team sports were almost unheard of. Collins later admitted he never wanted to be “the first”, saying he wished someone else had already stepped forward.

But by stepping forward himself, Collins changed the conversation around sexuality, identity and acceptance in locker rooms that had long remained silent.

The years that followed, Collins later said, became “the best of my life”.

Away from the history-making moment, Collins carved out a respected 13-year NBA career with teams including the New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards. He helped lead the Nets to back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003 before later returning to the franchise after it moved to Brooklyn.

Tributes quickly poured in after news of his death, with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver saying Collins’ influence stretched “far beyond basketball” and helped make sport more welcoming for future generations. The Brooklyn Nets remembered him as a player whose courage and authenticity helped move “the game — and the world — forward.”

More than a decade after he stepped forward, Collins’ legacy endures not because he wanted to make history, but because he chose honesty at a moment when few others could.

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ISLAMABAD: The cost of two major hydropower projects, Mohmand and Dasu dams, has increased sharply, with revised estimates showing multi-trillion-rupee escalations, according to documents presented in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Water Resources told lawmakers that combined cost overruns for the Mohmand and Dasu hydroelectric projects have risen by about Rs1.607 trillion.

Mohmand Dam cost more than doubles

The ministry said that the estimated cost of the Mohmand Dam has increased from Rs309.55 billion under the approved PC-I to Rs665.74 billion under the revised estimate.

This reflects an increase of around Rs356.18 billion, according to official documents.

The ministry said that the revised PC-I for the project is currently under approval with the Planning Ministry.

Officials said that funds originally allocated for local population development under the project have also been revised upwards from Rs160 million to Rs4.5 billion.

Dasu Dam sees multi-trillion rupee revision

The cost of the Dasu Hydropower Project has also been significantly revised.

According to documents, the original estimated cost of Rs486.093 billion has increased to Rs1.737 trillion under the revised PC-I.

The ministry said the revised plan was approved by the National Economic Council in December 2025.

Cost escalation for the Dasu project stands at approximately Rs1.251 trillion rupees, according to the official briefing.

Higher allocations for local development

The ministry also informed the assembly that allocations for local population development under the Dasu project have been significantly increased from Rs7 billion to Rs57 billion in the revised plan.

Officials said that the revisions reflect updated planning requirements and implementation adjustments for large-scale infrastructure development.

The briefing was part of proceedings in the National Assembly session, where lawmakers were informed about ongoing infrastructure costs and revisions in major public sector projects.

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The deadlock followed two days of government-mediated talks earlier this week, according to officials and company statements.

Amid growing concern, South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok called an emergency meeting of relevant ministers, instructing authorities to closely manage the situation given its potential economic impact.

He urged continued dialogue between management and the union to prevent a strike “under any circumstances,” his office said.

18-day strike threat over bonus gap with SK Hynix

The union has warned of an 18-day strike starting May 21 if its demands are not met, citing a significant gap in bonus pay compared with rival SK Hynix.

Samsung initially saw its shares fall as much as 6 per cent, but they later recovered to trade higher following reports of government intervention. SK Hynix shares rose sharply on expectations it could benefit from the dispute.

Workers demand overhaul of bonus structure

Union representatives said Samsung had proposed a one-off performance payment for 2026 but rejected demands for a permanent overhaul of the bonus system.

The union is seeking removal of a cap on bonus pay currently set at 50 per cent of base salary, along with a fixed share of operating profits and greater transparency in bonus calculations.

It said more than 50,000 workers could join the strike, which could delay shipments and disrupt global chip supply chains.

Samsung said it regretted the breakdown of talks but remained committed to dialogue to avoid what it described as a worst-case scenario.

Government considers emergency arbitration option

The National Labor Relations Commission, which mediated the talks, said it ended discussions due to a wide gap between the two sides.

Labour Minister Kim Young-hoon said the dispute should be resolved through negotiation, although there is speculation the government could invoke emergency arbitration powers if economic risks escalate.

Such a move would temporarily suspend industrial action for up to 30 days while mediation continues, though it is rarely used and would represent a significant intervention by the government.

Rising tensions amid record profits

Frustration among Samsung employees has increased amid record corporate earnings driven by the global artificial intelligence boom.

Union membership has surged to more than 90,000 workers, representing over 70 per cent of Samsung’s South Korean workforce.

The dispute comes as Samsung recently became only the second Asian company after TSMC to reach a market valuation above $1 trillion.

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s finance minister on Wednesday briefed a visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission on the country’s macroeconomic outlook, fiscal strategy and ongoing reform agenda, with both sides discussing preparations for the upcoming federal budget and efforts to sustain economic stability.

The talks between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and the IMF delegation focused on macroeconomic stabilisation, fiscal and external sustainability, and structural reforms aimed at supporting investment and export-led growth, according to an official statement.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Finance said that discussions also covered maintaining reform momentum, strengthening macroeconomic stability and improving competitiveness through productivity gains and deregulation.

Focus on budget preparations and external sector performance

Aurangzeb highlighted recent improvements in Pakistan’s external sector, including positive trends in remittances and export performance, noting month-on-month and year-on-year growth in exports.

He said the government remained focused on addressing structural economic challenges, particularly external financing pressures, and reiterated its commitment to reforms aimed at avoiding recurring economic cycles.

The finance minister stressed that the reform programme was designed to support long-term transformation rather than short-term stabilisation, and was aimed at strengthening export-led growth and economic resilience.

IMF acknowledges progress, stresses reform continuity

The IMF mission, led by Mission Chief Iva Petrova, acknowledged progress made by Pakistan in maintaining macroeconomic stability despite global economic challenges.

The fund appreciated the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and reform implementation, according to the statement.

Both sides agreed on the importance of sustaining reforms, maintaining fiscal discipline and advancing structural changes to support durable and inclusive growth.

Broader economic cooperation and policy coordination

The finance minister also briefed the delegation on Pakistan’s engagement with international development partners, including ongoing economic cooperation with China and efforts to attract long-term investment aligned with national priorities.

The IMF team reiterated its commitment to continued engagement and support for Pakistan’s reform programme and long-term economic resilience.

The meeting was also attended by State Bank of Pakistan Governor Jameel Ahmad, Finance Secretary Imdad Ullah Bosal, and Federal Board of Revenue Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, along with senior officials from the finance and revenue divisions.

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Donald Gibb, the actor best known for playing Ogre in Revenge of the Nerds, has died at the age of 71.

Gibb passed away on Tuesday evening at his home in Texas due to health complications, according to statements shared by his family through US media. His son, Travis Gibb, said the actor died surrounded by loved ones, including his children.

The actor’s death was not sudden, his family said, revealing that he had been privately battling ongoing health issues. They also asked for prayers and privacy as they mourn the loss.

Donald Gibb became a cult favourite in the 1980s after starring as the intimidating yet oddly lovable fraternity member Ogre in Revenge of the Nerds. Though first introduced as a bully, the towering character eventually became one of the franchise’s most memorable fan favourites, helping cement Gibb’s place in pop culture.

Beyond Revenge of the Nerds, Gibb built a steady career in Hollywood, often playing physically imposing but memorable characters. He appeared in films including Bloodsport, U.S. Marshals and Hancock, while television audiences recognised him from appearances in shows such as The X-Files, Seinfeld and HBO football comedy 1st & Ten.

According to his family, Gibb was deeply devoted to his faith, family, friends and fans. In a statement shared through US outlets, loved ones said he would be “deeply missed and forever remembered”.

Following news of his death, fans began sharing tributes online, remembering the actor for bringing humour and heart to one of the most beloved cult comedy franchises of the 1980s.

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ISLAMABAD: A mission of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has arrived in Pakistan for talks on the federal budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, officials said on Wednesday.

Talks between the IMF delegation and the Ministry of Finance Pakistan have begun, focusing on new budget targets, tax revenue measures and broader fiscal reforms.

Officials said the mission would remain in Pakistan until May 20.

During the week-long engagement, the IMF team is scheduled to hold meetings with the finance ministry, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the State Bank of Pakistan, alongside discussions with other economic and energy-related institutions.

Key areas under review include budgetary targets for the new fiscal year, tax collection, fiscal consolidation, energy sector reforms and progress on the government’s privatisation programme.

Sources said that Pakistan was considering setting a tax revenue target of more than 15 trillion rupees for the next fiscal year.

The talks will also cover proposals for development spending, improving fiscal discipline, and aligning government expenditures with broader macroeconomic stability goals.

Officials said consultations would also include coordination with the Ministry of Energy and other departments on structural reforms.

The IMF engagement comes as Pakistan continues to implement reforms under its ongoing programme aimed at stabilising the economy and improving fiscal management.

Earlier, Pakistan received $1.3 billion from the IMF following approval by its executive board under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), the State Bank of Pakistan said.

The inflow is expected to support foreign exchange reserves and reinforce ongoing macroeconomic stabilisation efforts.

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For years, many people diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, have questioned whether the name ever truly reflected what they were experiencing.

Despite being one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, many patients diagnosed with PCOS do not actually have ovarian cysts, while symptoms often extend far beyond reproductive health.

Now, doctors and researchers are making a major change.

Polycystic ovary syndrome has officially been renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), a move experts say better reflects the condition’s wide-ranging hormonal and metabolic effects. The change was announced this week in a paper published in The Lancet following years of international consultation.

The condition affects an estimated 10 to 13 per cent of women of reproductive age globally, according to the World Health Organization, though it can also affect transgender people. Symptoms can include irregular periods, acne, excess body hair, fertility struggles and metabolic complications.

So why change the name?

Experts behind the move say “polycystic ovary syndrome” has long been misleading because many diagnosed patients never develop ovarian cysts at all. Instead, doctors increasingly recognise the condition as a broader hormonal and metabolic disorder linked to issues such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risks.

Professor Helena Teede, an endocrinologist who led the international effort behind the change, said the condition had effectively been placed “in the wrong box” for years because too much focus was placed on the ovaries rather than wider health effects.

The decision followed a global review involving dozens of medical organisations, researchers and patient groups, with thousands of healthcare professionals and patients consulted during the process.

Importantly, experts say the new name will not suddenly change diagnosis or treatment. Medical guidance remains the same for now, but doctors hope the shift will improve awareness, reduce stigma and encourage earlier diagnosis and more comprehensive care.

For many patients who have long felt misunderstood, the new name may represent more than a medical update. Doctors hope it marks a broader shift in how the condition itself is understood.

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RAWALPINDI: The Adiala jail superintendent told the Islamabad High Court on Wednesday that a request for family and personal doctor meetings with Bushra Bibi, the wife of former prime minister Imran Khan, had been declined due to concerns over political discussions following prison visits.

The Adiala jail superintendent submitted a written reply to the court stating that conversations held after jail meetings were being used for political discourse outside the prison.

He specifically referred to social media posts made after family visits, saying such activity raised security and administrative concerns.

IHC Judge Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the case on a plea filed by Bushra Bibi’s daughter, seeking permission for family meetings, access to a personal physician and provision of essential items.

During proceedings, the jail superintendent said that meetings at Adiala jail were being regulated under prison rules and that no immediate permission for the requested visits had been granted.

Islamabad Advocate General Naveed Hayat Malik also appeared before the court.

The petitioner's counsel, Salman Akram Raja, argued that the justification for denying meetings was based on social media posts allegedly made by a third party, questioning the legal basis for restricting access.

He said that Bushra Bibi’s sister had not visited the jail, and argued that a third person’s online posts could not be used to bar meetings with a daughter.

The court observed that the matter required careful examination and asked the advocate general to consider obtaining an undertaking on the issue.

Officials told the court that Adiala jail currently houses around 7,200 inmates and that visit schedules are arranged according to the nature of offences, with meetings held six days a week under a prison management system.

The jail superintendent said that all visits were conducted in accordance with the prison manual through a formal monitoring system.

Justice Tahir remarked that the system appeared structured and said the court wanted to understand its procedures in detail before issuing a final decision.

He said that authorities should ensure fairness and compliance with prison rules while avoiding hasty conclusions.

The court also directed that arrangements be made, where possible, for a meeting between Bushra Bibi and her daughter.

The hearing was adjourned until May 14.

Earlier, the IHC had summoned the Adiala jail superintendent to appear in person on a plea seeking access to a private doctor and family meetings for Bushra Bibi.

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Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29, leaving the basketball world in shock as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.

The Grizzlies confirmed Clarke’s passing on Tuesday, while his agency also paid tribute to the player, remembering him for his impact both on and off the court.

“We are devastated by the loss of Brandon and send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates and all who knew him,” the Grizzlies said in a statement.

According to multiple US media reports, authorities in Los Angeles are investigating Clarke’s death as a possible overdose, though no official cause of death has been confirmed.

NBC4 Los Angeles reported that emergency responders were called to a medical emergency in the San Fernando Valley on Monday evening. Clarke was found dead at the scene, with the outlet reporting that investigators discovered evidence of possible drug use. Officials have yet to publicly confirm the cause of death and the investigation remains ongoing.

Clarke’s death comes weeks after reports emerged that he had faced legal troubles. According to US reports, the NBA player was arrested in April on charges including trafficking a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.

The Vancouver-born forward spent all seven seasons of his NBA career with the Memphis Grizzlies after being selected with the 21st overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder and traded to Memphis the same night.

He quickly emerged as a key player for the Grizzlies, earning NBA All-Rookie First Team honours after averaging 12.1 points per game in his debut season and finishing fourth in Rookie of the Year voting. Across seven seasons, Clarke averaged 10.2 points per game.

His 2025–26 season ended early following a calf injury in December.

Before joining the NBA, Clarke played for Gonzaga after transferring from San Jose State. Alongside future NBA player Rui Hachimura, he helped lead the team to the Elite Eight in 2019 and set a school NCAA Tournament scoring record with 36 points against Baylor.

Tributes from teammates, fans and members of the wider NBA community began pouring in shortly after news of Clarke’s death emerged, with many remembering him as a respected teammate and positive presence beyond the court.

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ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Wednesday forecast rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms in several parts of the country, particularly in northern and hilly regions.

According to the PMD, several areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Dir, Chitral, Malakand, Kohistan and Buner are expected to receive rain with gusty winds and thunder.

It said isolated rainfall is also likely in Malam Jabba, Kalam, Parachinar and Abbottabad, while weather in mountainous regions is expected to remain pleasant.

In the past 24 hours, Malam Jabba recorded the highest rainfall at 67 millimetres, the Met Office said.

The PMD has advised citizens to take precautionary measures during adverse weather conditions, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas.

The department also forecast further rainfall in Lahore in the coming days.

It said that hot and humid conditions continued in Karachi, where temperatures were expected to reach up to 38 degrees Celsius, with persistent humidity.

In the federal capital Islamabad, weather is expected to remain hot and dry, while southern parts of the country are likely to experience mostly hot and dry conditions, the Met Office said.

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KARACHI: An alleged drug dealer identified as Anmol alias “Pinky”, built a wide narcotics network spanning Karachi and other major cities, according to law enforcement sources and investigative details that have emerged.

The accused, a resident of Naghara Goth in the Baloch Para area of Karachi, allegedly began supplying cocaine and other narcotics in 2008, initially targeting dance parties held in upscale neighbourhoods including Defence and Clifton.

She later adopted the alias “Pinky” within the illicit trade, gradually expanding her operations into a broader distribution network, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Following the emergence of the Armaghan case last year in Karachi, the suspect reportedly went into hiding in Lahore and Islamabad, where she continued to operate the network remotely, sources said.

Investigators claim the network had more than 800 clients who were supplied narcotics through coordinated distribution channels. Two of her brothers have previously been arrested and imprisoned in separate drug trafficking cases.

Law enforcement officials said the group included both men and women who assisted in smuggling cocaine and distributing it across multiple cities, including Karachi, as well as to universities and colleges, and through online channels.

Sources further claimed the accused was also involved in a textile business in Lahore alongside her alleged criminal activities.

The suspect was arrested in a recent operation by Garden police in Karachi.

She was presented before a court on Tuesday without handcuffs, accompanied by police officials, in what appeared to be relaxed custody conditions, according to court observers.

Earlier, the Sindh police chief ordered an inquiry after a video showing the woman accused in narcotics and illegal weapons cases appearing in court without handcuffs went viral on social media.

Sindh Police Inspector General Javed Alam Odho took notice of the incident and directed the Additional Inspector General Karachi to submit a report on violations of standard operating procedures during the suspect’s court appearance.

The police chief also ordered the suspension of officials found negligent and directed the formation of a senior-level inquiry committee to conduct a transparent investigation into the matter.

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LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday directed divisional commissioners to intensify field monitoring and warned against negligence in civic management, saying administrative officers must deliver visible public relief instead of “eye wash” measures.

Chairing a meeting of commissioners in Lahore, Maryam approved a number of public welfare projects to be financed through local revenue and reviewed progress on development and sanitation initiatives across the province.

Commissioners from Sahiwal, Sargodha, Faisalabad and Multan divisions briefed the meeting on ongoing projects and administrative performance.

“I do not want eye wash, I want ground work,” Maryam said, adding that commissioners should be visible in the field rather than sitting in air-conditioned offices.

Referring to the recent death of a girl who fell into an open pit in Faisalabad division, the chief minister warned that owners of housing societies would face arrest if any citizen fell into an uncovered manhole.

She directed the authorities concerned to obtain monthly affidavits from housing societies confirming that no open manholes existed within their jurisdictions.

Maryam also ordered strict monitoring of public and private school buildings and instructed officials to ensure construction sites were cordoned off in accordance with standard operating procedures.

She directed commissioners to personally conduct field visits and ensure deep cleaning operations in all tehsils.

“Some officers are performing well while others are merely creating an eye wash,” she said, adding that the scale of work visible on the ground did not match government expectations.

“If work is being done, the public should feel relief,” she added.

Calling commissioners the “eyes, ears and arms” of the government, Maryam said district administrations would have to justify the trust placed in them and that there was no room for negligence.

She also stressed that monitoring mechanisms should be strengthened and reiterated that merit, rather than favouritism or recommendations, would guide official decisions.

During the meeting, the chief minister expressed concern over damaged roads in Sahiwal and directed authorities to construct roads of “international standard” in the division.

She ordered that footpaths be built level with roads and directed officials to develop an attractive entry point for Sahiwal city.

Maryam further instructed authorities to install solar lights on Okara’s Main Akbar Road and floodlights at Jinnah Stadium in Okara.

She also directed beautification of Chichawatni Chowk and warned that encroachments and obstacles affecting urban beautification would not be tolerated.

The chief minister ordered completion of the Sargodha division development scheme by Sept. 30 and called for uniformity and consistent quality standards across all development projects.

“No compromise will be made on the quality of work in any project,” she said.

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has received $1.3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after the lender’s executive board approved the disbursement earlier this month under its lending and climate resilience programmes, the central bank said on Wednesday.

The State Bank of Pakistan confirmed receipt of the funds, saying the amount was released under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

The IMF executive board approved the tranche on May 8 as part of Pakistan’s ongoing economic reform programme aimed at stabilising the economy and rebuilding foreign exchange reserves.

The central bank said the inflow would be reflected in the country’s foreign exchange reserves for the week ending May 15.

The latest disbursement comes as Pakistan seeks to strengthen its external financing position and maintain momentum on reforms agreed with the IMF.

Separately, an IMF delegation led by the mission chief arrived at Pakistan’s finance ministry on Wednesday to begin discussions on the upcoming federal budget, revenue measures and structural reforms.

Officials familiar with the talks said discussions would focus on new budget targets, tax revenue collection and fiscal consolidation measures for the next financial year.

The two sides are also expected to review progress on energy sector reforms and the government’s privatisation programme, which are key conditions under the IMF-backed programme.

Pakistan has relied on IMF support in recent years to avert a balance of payments crisis and unlock additional funding from bilateral and multilateral lenders.

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