'Bomb Jihadis': Trump Ally Laura Loomer Calls On Israel To Strike Khamenei's Funeral, Sparks Outrage

OPINION | Perils Of Overlooking Afghanistan-Pakistan ‘Open War’

Nayanima Basu — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 16:20:30 +0530

Since late 2025, a volatile conflict has unfolded between nuclear-armed Pakistan and Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, escalating into what can only be described as an “open war.” Despite various attempts at mediation by international actors such as China, Turkey, and Qatar, tensions reached a critical boiling point in February of this year, raising alarming concerns about the stability and peace of the entire region. India, for its part, has opted to remain aloof, avoiding any form of dialogue with Pakistan while observing the relentless violence through the Taliban’s lens. This situation underscores the chilling reality of terrorism that is playing out just beyond its borders.

The roots of this escalating conflict trace back to October 2025, when Pakistan launched airstrikes that penetrated into Kabul to target bases of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). However, it was in February 2026 that Islamabad officially declared an “open war” against the Afghan capital, by launching ‘Operation Ghazab lil Haq’, igniting fears of a broader and more destabilising confrontation. This dire situation continues to evolve as the spectre of warfare looms large, casting a shadow over regional security.

At the heart of the ongoing conflict lies Pakistan's persistent claim that the Afghan Taliban is providing sanctuary to the jihadist militant organization known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), or the Pakistani Taliban. This accusation is rooted in Pakistan's belief that the TTP is conducting its operations from bases within Afghan territory, posing a significant security threat to Pakistan.

The TTP, which has carried out a series of deadly attacks within Pakistan, has been a major concern for the Pakistani government and military. In response to these allegations, the Afghan Taliban has consistently refuted claims of harbouring the TTP, asserting their commitment to preventing the use of Afghan soil for launching attacks against neighbouring countries. This denial underscores the complexities of regional security dynamics and the challenges in achieving lasting peace between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The ongoing war has caused significant devastation in Afghanistan, which continues to face severe economic, social, and political challenges. Additionally, it has reignited several dormant militant groups, exacerbating their ideologies. With the conflict in Iran serving as a backdrop, the region has become infested with terrorists and various militant organizations, some of which pose a serious threat to India’s security. It has also strengthened the Islamic State–Khorasan (ISIS-K) – a deadly terrorist group that was formed more than a decade ago, in 2014–2015, by breakaway fighters from the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) and Al-Qaeda.

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When Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil Haq in February 2026, it defended this action by asserting that it was specifically targeting encampments utilized by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), both of which posed significant threats to its national security. This marked a significant escalation in the persistent tensions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

In a notable counteraction, the Afghan Taliban launched a series of unprecedented cross-border drone strikes deep into Pakistan’s provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa earlier this month. This operation was remarkable not only for its boldness but also for its implications on regional security dynamics. The Taliban justified these incursions into Pakistani airspace by claiming they were acting against what they characterized as active ISIS-K planning centers located on Pakistani soil. This justification underscores the complex and contentious nature of the security situation in the region, highlighting the shifting allegiances and rivalries among these militant groups.

As the localized border conflict intensifies, the ISIS-K has effectively expanded its operational scope. The group is not only focused on instigating violence within South Asia but has also begun orchestrating and executing large-scale attacks that reach far beyond the region. Reports indicate that ISIS-K is actively involved in plotting targeted strikes and mass-casualty events in diverse locations, including Russia, Iran, Turkey, and various European countries. This alarming trend points to a growing ambition within ISIS-K to establish its presence on a global scale, posing serious challenges to international security and counterterrorism efforts, several intelligence reports indicate.

Major Threats For India

Pakistan has levied accusations against India for “backing” the TTP. Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has specifically pointed fingers at Afghanistan, asserting that it is functioning as an Indian “proxy” in this regard. He argues that India’s backing of the TTP is part of a broader strategy to destabilize Pakistan.

Since the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in 2021, India has gradually been working to recalibrate its diplomatic approach towards the Afghan Taliban. This strategic shift has coincided with a notable decline in the diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. In a significant move reflecting this new relationship, India officially reopened its embassy in Kabul in 2022, signalling its intention to maintain a presence in Afghanistan despite the Taliban’s rule.

Moreover, in October 2025, New Delhi hosted a diplomatic delegation from the Afghan Taliban. This visit indicates India’s willingness to engage diplomatically with the Taliban, further complicating the already strained dynamics in the region, particularly between Pakistan and Afghanistan. As these developments unfold, tensions in South Asia continue to rise, highlighting the intricate interplay of relationships among these nations.

Meanwhile, while China has sought to mediate the conflict, India has positioned itself as a supporter of the Taliban government in Afghanistan. New Delhi has consistently emphasized the importance of respecting Afghanistan's sovereignty, while reproaching Pakistan for projecting its internal security issues onto others. However, what New Delhi has mostly overlooked are the risks associated with spillover effects.

Among many aspects, the first casualty of the ongoing war had been a complete derailment of the development roadmap that was chalked out between New Delhi and the Taliban in Kabul last year, including plans to ramp up development projects, building connectivity networks and increased people-to-people linkages.

In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), significant unrest is unfolding amidst a military crackdown in the wake of a ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Protests initially sparked by economic difficulties have escalated into a volatile uprising against the political and military leadership of Pakistan. The Pakistani government has placed the blame for this upheaval on India, a narrative that New Delhi has strongly dismissed as a "desperate attempt" to shift focus away from Islamabad's own administrative and humanitarian shortcomings. In response, Pakistan’s security forces have initiated social media campaigns to connect JAAC leaders with Indian intelligence, branding the civil rights protesters as "externally funded actors."

Recent intelligence reports indicate that ISIS-K is expanding its influence within India, particularly through cyber-recruitment and digital radicalization. Indian counter-terrorism agencies have identified India as a significant ideological target for ISIS-K, although they do not currently view the country as an active operational base for their activities. New Delhi is believed to be conducting an internal assessment to determine whether ISIS-K has established any physical infrastructure, such as training camps or organized command networks, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir. The primary method of threat from ISIS-K is predominantly online.

The group employs heavily encrypted messaging platforms and publishes its English-language propaganda magazine - Voice of Khorasan - to specifically attract and recruit Indian youth. Their strategy includes inciting lone-wolf attacks and fostering communal discord, making it essential for counter-terrorism efforts to focus on monitoring and countering online radicalization to mitigate this evolving threat.

India's involvement in the ongoing conflict may involve mediation or initiating dialogue, especially given its growing ties with the Taliban in Afghanistan. The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains volatile, and increasing tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan could result in militant elements crossing into the region. It may be beneficial for India to develop a strategic roadmap aimed at addressing these issues, similar to approaches currently being pursued by China in consideration of its national interests.

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ALERT: Anti-Pakistan protests intensify in PoK as demonstrators demand rights and self-determination

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 15:38:36 +0530

Large-scale protests have continued across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, with demonstrators voicing strong opposition to Pakistan’s administration and demanding greater political rights and self-determination. The movement, centered in Rawalakot and other parts of the region, has entered its fourth week, making it one of the longest sustained protest campaigns in recent years. Videos circulating from protest sites show thousands of participants gathering in public spaces, raising slogans and criticizing the Pakistani establishment. Protest leaders have accused authorities of suppressing dissent, restricting civil liberties, and failing to address long-standing political and economic grievances. According to claims made by protest organizers, authorities have responded with arrests, movement restrictions, and crackdowns on activists associated with the Awami Action Committee. Organizers further allege that numerous protesters have been detained, while access to essential supplies has been disrupted in some areas. These claims have not been independently verified. Demonstrators have also accused Pakistan of fostering militancy in the region, echoing allegations that have long been part of broader geopolitical disputes over Kashmir. Protest leaders insist that local residents are seeking dignity, democratic rights, and greater control over their future rather than violence. The movement has remained concentrated around Rawalakot's Eidgah Ground, where protesters continue to organize rallies and public meetings despite reported security measures. Protesters have warned that if their demands remain unaddressed, they may expand demonstrations toward Muzaffarabad in the coming days. The developments add another layer of tension to an already sensitive regional situation. While authorities in Pakistan have defended their security measures in previous instances of unrest, the current demonstrations have attracted significant public attention due to their duration and scale. The situation remains fluid, and independent verification of several claims made by both protesters and officials is still ongoing.

Pakistani Deputy PM Ishaq Dar's Relative Arrested In Abduction, Gang-Rape Case Of Foreign Nationals

Shivank Mishra — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 13:04:00 +0530

In a major development that has sent shockwaves through Pakistan's political circles, Lahore Police have registered a serious case involving gang-rape, kidnapping, and extortion against Muhammad Raza Dar, a very close relative of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Dr Ishaq Dar.

From Singapore to Lahore: A Lure Under the Guise of Hospitality

According to the First Information Report (FIR) registered by Lahore Police, the two victims — Stefanie Adnana Maroun, a French national, and Astrid Robinson Bracho, a Venezuelan national — had initially met Mohammad Raza Dar (Grandson of Ishaq Dar) in Singapore in October 2025. Following their meeting, Ali Raza Dar invited both women to visit Pakistan and personally arranged their visas.

A Harrowing Ordeal: Extortion, Torture, and Assault

However, the situation took a dark turn after their arrival. The FIR states that on June 29, Muhammad Raza Dar, along with four of his accomplices, abducted both foreign nationals and took them to an abandoned house in Lahore.

Recounting their ordeal to the police, the women stated that during the abduction, Ishaq Dar's relative initially posed as a fellow victim to mislead them. Shortly after, he began demanding large sums of money as ransom, while his accomplices subjected the women to physical abuse and gang-rape.

Astrid Robinson Bracho of Venezuela informed the police that she was subjected to both gang-rape and unnatural rape by three of Muhammad Raza Dar’s accomplices during their captivity. Similarly, Stefanie Adnana Maroun of Netherland stated that she faced severe sexual violence and unnatural assault by the perpetrators. The captors continuously extorted them for money, looted all the cash they had in their possession, and threatened to kill them and sell their body organs if further ransom demands were not met.

Police Action: Suspects Detained at Defence C Station

Lahore Police have registered a formal case under charges of gang-rape and kidnapping for ransom at the Defence C Police Station. Police authorities have taken the close relative of Ishaq Dar and his four accomplices into custody. A formal medical examination of both victims was conducted yesterday as part of the ongoing investigation.

The Political Connection: Ties to the Ruling Elite

This high-profile arrest directly impacts the highest echelons of Pakistan's ruling coalition. Dr. Ishaq Dar is not only the country's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister but also a very, very close relative of Nawaz Sharif. Ishaq Dar’s son, Ali Dar, is married to Nawaz Sharif’s younger daughter, Asma Sharif. Furthermore, Ali Dar currently serves as the Advisor on AI and Special Projects to the Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz (Nawaz Sharif's daughter). Given these deep familial and political ties to the ruling elite, the scandal has triggered intense political scrutiny across the country.

40 Killed, 8 Injured As Overcrowded Bus Falls Into Deep Ditch In Pakistan's Balochistan

Apoorva Gupta — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 12:58:00 +0530

At least 40 people were killed and eight others injured after an overcrowded, speeding passenger bus plunged off a highway into a rocky ravine in southwestern Pakistan early Friday, officials said.

The accident occurred in Dana Sar, a remote area near the border of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, when the speeding bus reportedly went out of control before falling into the gorge, Associated Press reported.

Bus Was Overcrowded

According to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind, the bus was carrying not only its scheduled passengers but also travellers from another bus that had broken down, leaving the vehicle overcrowded.

Rescue teams were deployed to the crash site and were working to identify those killed in the accident, AP reported.

ALSO READ: Pakistani Deputy PM Ishaq Dar's Relative Arrested In Abduction, Gang-Rape Case Of Foreign Nationals

Leaders Express Condolences

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the victims. He also directed authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical treatment.

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti also conveyed his condolences and instructed officials to provide immediate medical care to those injured in the crash, the report said.

Fatal road accidents are frequent in Pakistan due to poor road infrastructure, inadequate enforcement of traffic regulations and unsafe driving practices, particularly on mountainous routes.

In May, 17 people were killed and five others injured after a minibus rammed into a stationary bus on a motorway in northwestern Pakistan.

ALSO READ: PoK Protest Leader Alleges Pakistan Army Armed Kashmiris During Ongoing Unrest

Wildfires Sweep Southern France After Record Heatwave; Thousands Evacuated, 900 Hectares Burned

Deutsche Welle — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 12:52:05 +0530

Reported by: Dmytro Hubenko with AFP, AP, dpa, Reuters | Edited by: Sean Sinico

Several wildfires scorched southern France on Thursday after weeks of dry weather and record-high temperatures during the recent heat wave.

According to local authorities, the largest fires spread in the Aude and Herault regions. Up to 800 firefighters and 150 vehicles were deployed to combat flames that spread over 900 hectares (2,200 acres).

In the Pyrenees-Orientales region, nearly 3,000 tourists and local residents were evacuated after a wildfire broke out in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and spread to Canet-en-Roussillon, a town near the Spanish border.

Television images showed warehouses and a yacht engulfed in flames in Canet-en-Roussillon, and a thick cloud of dark smoke blew over the beach.

Pierre Regnault de La Mothe, the top regional official in the southern department of Pyrenees-Orientales, said two firefighters sustained minor injuries.

Earlier in the day, firefighters brought two fires under control on the outskirts of Marseille, France's second-largest city.

Weather conditions increase risk of wildfires

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, who held a crisis meeting in Marseille, said nearly 7,000 fires have broken out since the start of the summer season, with some 8,700 hectares already burned.

"The situation is fairly tense," he said.

Since Wednesday, 1,200 firefighters have been mobilized to battle forest fires, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nunez.

"Weather conditions remain particularly unfavorable," he wrote on X.

In June, France experienced an 11-day record-breaking heat wave, with temperatures climbing above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in many places.

High temperatures and drought conditions are expected to persist, with no rain in the forecast for the coming days.

The combination of severe water stress on plants and vegetation, as well as strong winds blowing across the Mediterranean region, increases the risk of wildfires.

(Disclaimer: This report first appeared on Deutsche Welle, and has been republished on ABP Live as part of a special arrangement. Apart from the headline, no changes have been made in the report by ABP Live.)

German-Made AI Drones Deployed On Ukraine Front Line, Troops Flag Technical Issues

Deutsche Welle — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 12:31:40 +0530

In a forested strip, two Ukrainian soldiers — a technician and an electrician — attach wings to a large black box. The kit is an HX-2 combat drone from the German manufacturer Helsing, equipped with artificial intelligence.

The billion-dollar startup from Bavaria is supplying thousands of these to the Ukrainian military, funded by the German government. Germany's armed forces have also recently awarded Helsing a multimillion-euro contract.

At the beginning of the year, critical reports about the drones appeared in Western media, including German outlets. They cited Ukrainian soldiers who reportedly identified technical issues during test deployments last year. According to a report by the newspaper Die Welt, many drones were not flight-ready or crashed shortly after takeoff. The hit rate was also said to be low. Its report quoted Ukrainian soldiers fighting at the front in eastern Ukraine.

The manufacturer, however, refuted these reports. "Members of the Ukrainian armed forces are testing the HX-2 drone together with Helsing staff at the front," a spokesperson told DW at the end of January. The first results of the tests, it said, were "encouraging."

Combat deployment near Pokrovsk

The soldiers repeatedly glance up at a detector mounted on a tree. It tracks Russian drones flying over their position.

Inside a shelter, two other soldiers — a pilot and a navigator — prepare to launch the German drone. They switch on their laptops and monitors, and also arrange a string of lights meant to create a bit of atmosphere. The crew is operating in the frontline section in Ukraine’s eastern Donbas coal region. The Russian army is advancing.

"Our task is to destroy their logistics routes," says the pilot and commander, who goes by the call sign Black.

Helsing initially delivered its earlier, simpler HF-1 model, developed with a Ukrainian manufacturer. At the time, the order covered 4,000 drones. In early 2025, the German company announced delivery of an additional 6,000 drones of the new HX-2 model. Black's crew, currently operating the HX-2, had first used Helsing’s first drone, the HF-1. The HX-2 is described as fast and agile. "It gives us a major advantage in the air — for the enemy it is harder to shoot down," says Ukrainian commander Black.

Target acquisition is carried out using artificial intelligence. "Normally we fly toward the target that reconnaissance drone pilots show us. However, the HX-2 system can independently identify targets. That said, it still can't tell if a target has already been destroyed or not," says Black.

Once the pilot confirms the target selected by the artificial intelligence, the drone continues its flight autonomously. According to commander Black, the HX-2 — like most drones — is vulnerable to electronic warfare.

The Ukrainian military personnel DW spoke with have identified several shortcomings with the drones that they do not want to make public. "Representatives of the manufacturer will come soon to look into it. We have a support chat with them," the commander says.

In response to a DW request, Helsing said the HX-2 drones have so far "not flown in sufficient numbers at the front to allow a fundamental assessment of performance under wartime conditions." The company added they are currently being adapted to frontline conditions, particularly to constantly changing electronic warfare measures used by the opposing side.

Helsing did not respond to DW’s request at the end of April regarding the current hit rate of the HX-2.

Problems arising during launch

The crew carefully selected the day for the HX-2 flight, taking into account wind speed, precipitation and cloud cover. The weather is clear. The drone is supposed to fly several dozen kilometers into the Russian-occupied part of the Donetsk region.

A few hours later, the HX-2 crew finally receives the launch order. The drone, however, doesn't launch from the catapult. The motor fails to start, the electrician reports over radio.

Together with the technician, he tries again and it finally takes off. It originally had a problem connecting with the ground station, something which occasionally occurs with this type of drone, explains Oleksandr Karpyuk, the senior sergeant of the unit.

A hit in better weather

Despite the favorable weather forecast, the sky is now overcast again and the drone pilot is having difficulties with navigation. The test has to be aborted.

On the next deployment, when the DW reporter was no longer present, the crew successfully struck a truck. The drone operation was recorded by a reconnaissance drone and the military personnel show the video. They attribute the success to better weather conditions than during the previous mission.

Karpyuk reports that the earlier HF-1 model also delivered poor results at first, but the manufacturer responded to feedback and improved the product. As a result, the HF-1 has hit more than 50% of targets in the Pokrovsk frontline area.

When asked whether he would continue working with this drone, Karpyuk answers yes. In his view, the Russians currently have no comparable model to the HX-2. He cites the Russian "kamikaze drone" Lancet as an example.

"In the Lancet, the motor is at the rear — it's a pusher motor. The wings, also mounted at the rear, control the drone. Only Helsing has equipped its drones with four forward-facing motors. Why? Because it gives them maneuverability and speed," Karpyuk says.

Mehbooba Mufti Joins Indian Delegation To Pay Homage To Ayatollah Ali Khamenei At State Funeral: WATCH

Apoorva Gupta — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 11:42:36 +0530

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti joined an Indian delegation in Tehran to pay homage to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, during the ongoing state funeral ceremonies.

The delegation offered Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer) and made dua for the late Iranian leader.

The visit comes after Mufti received an official invitation from the Iranian government to attend the funeral ceremonies being held in Tehran.

Tehran, Iran: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, along with members of an Indian delegation, paid homage to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. The delegation offered Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer)
(Source: PDP) pic.twitter.com/DIZP0JYMyW
— IANS (@ians_india) July 3, 2026

Mufti Calls Invitation From Iran A Rare Honour

Before departing for Iran, Mufti told reporters that attending the funeral was a privilege and described the invitation as a rare honour.

"It is an immense honour for me and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive this invitation (from Iran). I will travel there to pay my last respects to the supreme leader," she said.

According to the invitation, Mufti was invited as a distinguished guest representing India.

The letter was issued by Mohseen Qummi, Director of the International Relations Department at the Office of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

ALSO READ: US Alerted Iran To Alleged Israeli Plot Targeting Top Ceasefire Negotiators

In the invitation, Qummi formally requested Mufti's presence at the state funeral ceremonies in Tehran, scheduled from July 3 to July 6.

The communication stated that Ayatollah Khamenei was killed on February 28 and that the funeral programme was being conducted in accordance with Iran's official mourning protocols.

Multi-Day State Funeral

Iran has organised an extensive funeral programme spanning several days. The ceremonies begin with the body lying in state at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, where mourners are expected to pay their respects.

Further ceremonies are scheduled in the holy city of Qom before the final funeral procession and burial in Khamenei's hometown of Mashhad at the shrine of Imam Reza.

ALSO READ: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's Funeral: Son Mojtaba Likely To Skip Ceremony. Here's Why

Iranian authorities have imposed heightened security measures and movement restrictions across major cities to manage large crowds expected during the funeral events.

Mufti's participation alongside the Indian delegation comes amid the ongoing state mourning in Iran following the assassination of the country's Supreme Leader.

US Alerted Iran To Alleged Israeli Plot Targeting Top Ceasefire Negotiators

Bharathi SP — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 10:58:03 +0530

The United States reportedly urged several Middle Eastern countries to caution Iran about possible Israeli assassination attempts against senior Iranian officials involved in ceasefire negotiations, fearing such actions could jeopardise efforts to end the conflict, according to a report by The New York Times. The report says Washington was particularly concerned about the safety of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who were leading Tehran's delegation in negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire.

Report Says US Feared Peace Talks Could Collapse

According to The New York Times, US officials believed that any attack on Iran's chief negotiators could derail the fragile diplomatic process that began in April.

The report states that Israel had considered targeting senior Iranian leaders during the early stages of the conflict that erupted on February 28 as part of a broader strategy to weaken Tehran's leadership.

Among the senior figures reported to have been killed during the conflict were national security chief Ali Larijani and former foreign minister Kamal Kharazi. Once Araghchi and Ghalibaf assumed leading roles in ceasefire negotiations, however, US officials reportedly became concerned that any move against them would end diplomatic efforts and risk renewed fighting.

ALSO READ: 'Bomb Jihadis': Trump Ally Laura Loomer Calls On Israel To Strike Khamenei's Funeral, Sparks Outrage

Pakistan Reportedly Intervened

The report also cites a Pakistani official who told Reuters in March that Islamabad had intervened after learning of the potential threat to the Iranian negotiators. According to the official, Pakistan warned Washington that eliminating either Abbas Araghchi or Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf would leave "no one else to talk to" regarding peace negotiations.

The official added, "Hence, the US asked the Israelis to back off."

Reuters has attributed those remarks to the Pakistani official, while the claims have not been independently confirmed by the governments involved.

ALSO READ: PM Modi, Takaichi Condemn Pakistan-Backed Terror, Call For Action Against LeT And JeM

Alleged Threats Continued Despite Diplomatic Push

Despite the reported diplomatic efforts, concerns over the safety of Iranian officials allegedly continued.

According to The New York Times, intelligence received after talks between U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Pakistani officials in Islamabad on April 12 suggested there were fears of an attack on Ghalibaf's aircraft as it re-entered Iranian airspace.

The report says Iranian security officials ordered the aircraft to land in Mashhad, after which Ghalibaf and his delegation completed the journey to Tehran by road.

The reported developments underscore the differing approaches attributed to Washington and Tel Aviv during the ceasefire process. While the United States reportedly prioritised preserving negotiations, the report says Israeli officials remained sceptical about ending military operations prematurely, fearing it could strengthen Iran's leadership.

None of the claims in the report have been officially confirmed by the United States, Israel or Iran.

PoK Unrest: Anti-Pakistan Protests Intensify as Demonstrators Demand Rights and Political Reforms

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 10:56:31 +0530

Protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK) have continued for weeks, with demonstrators in several areas demanding political reforms, greater local representation, and action on governance-related issues. Large gatherings, including sit-ins in Rawalakot, have become the focal point of the ongoing agitation led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Protesters have voiced strong criticism of the Pakistani administration, accusing it of suppressing dissent and failing to address longstanding public concerns. Demonstrators have also objected to the allocation of reserved legislative seats for refugees, arguing that elected representation should primarily reflect residents of the region. These demands have remained central to the movement. The situation has turned tense following clashes between protesters and security forces. Pakistani authorities have imposed restrictions in some areas, detained activists, and banned the JAAC, citing public order and security concerns. Human rights groups have expressed concern over reports of arrests, internet disruptions, and the use of force during the demonstrations. Protest leaders have warned that demonstrations could expand if their demands are not addressed through dialogue. Meanwhile, Pakistan's administration has maintained that its actions are aimed at preserving law and order, while some officials have indicated a willingness to engage in discussions on certain issues. aThe developments have drawn international attention as tensions continue in the region. While competing political narratives surround the protests, the movement has highlighted broader debates over governance, political representation, civil liberties, and the relationship between the region and Pakistan. The situation remains fluid, with authorities and protest groups yet to reach a comprehensive resolution.

'Bomb Jihadis': Trump Ally Laura Loomer Calls On Israel To Strike Khamenei's Funeral, Sparks Outrage

Bharathi SP — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 09:42:36 +0530

Far-right activist and political commentator Laura Loomer has come under fire after posting messages on social media urging Israel to target the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Her remarks, which included references to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), have sparked sharp criticism amid heightened tensions in the region. The funeral ceremonies for Khamenei are scheduled to take place across Tehran, Qom and Mashhad on July 6, 7 and 9, with Iranian authorities expecting millions of mourners to attend the events.

Loomer Calls Funeral A 'Target-Rich Environment'

Loomer reposted reports about the funeral on social media, accompanying one post with a bomb emoji and describing the gathering as a "target-rich environment."

In another post, she tagged the official account of the Israel Defense Forces and wrote: "The IDF has the opportunity to do the funniest thing. @IDF."

After facing criticism online, Loomer defended her remarks, writing: "I'll never say no to an opportunity to see the US or IDF bomb a bunch of jihadis."

A funeral for Khameni?

That’s what we call a target rich environment. 💣 https://t.co/lyKC0BnCGn
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) July 2, 2026

Iran Warns Against Any Attack

The controversy comes as Iranian military officials warned against any attempt to target the funeral ceremonies.

Ali Abdollahi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said: "We warn the enemies of Iran, especially the U.S. and the Zionist regime (Israel), to avoid any miscalculation and to think about the harsh retaliation our armed forces would make to any threat and aggression against our country."

Iranian authorities have indicated that the ceremonies are expected to attract one of the largest public gatherings in the country's recent history.

ALSO READ: PM Modi, Takaichi Condemn Pakistan-Backed Terror, Call For Action Against LeT And JeM

Loomer's Remarks Add To History Of Controversial Statements

Loomer has built a reputation for provocative political commentary and has frequently attracted criticism over her statements on Islam and U.S. politics.

She has repeatedly described Muslims as "jihadis" in public commentary and has previously targeted political figures, including Representative Ilhan Omar and commentator Tucker Carlson, over their views.

While expressing support for President Donald Trump on several occasions, Loomer has also criticised sections of the Republican Party, accusing some leaders of failing to fully pursue Trump's political agenda.