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

'Passion This Indecent Should Always Come With A Record': Viral Post Revives Empire State Proposal Ending In Arrest

Sagarika Chakraborty — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 17:52:07 +0530

A dramatic marriage proposal atop New York City's Empire State Building has returned to the spotlight after an Instagram post by Shuchi Suri describing the stunt as "the sexiest thing" he had seen went viral online.

The post referred to the now widely shared proposal by Russian nationals Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, who were later arrested and charged after climbing to the top of the iconic skyscraper without authorisation.

Shuchi Suri's Viral Post

Sharing his reaction to the proposal, Shuchi Suri wrote, "This is the sexiest thing I have seen in the longest time, and I have seen things that would make lesser men blush. Two beautiful animals climb the Empire State Building with nothing but nerve and hunger in their hands. No net. No permission. No fear. Higher than the law, higher than reason, higher than every ordinary love that ever played it safe."

🚨 BREAKING: 2 people have climbed the Empire State Building in New York to fly a flag. The flag reads “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.” pic.twitter.com/YrIudqf9Lx
— FOX 4 NEWS (@FOX4) July 1, 2026

He continued, "And there, on the spine of the whole city, with the wind daring them to fall, he pulls her close and asks the only question that matters. That is not a stunt, my darlings. That is desire with a death wish. That is what wanting someone actually looks like when you strip away the cowardice."

Referring to the arrests, she concluded, "They were arrested on the way down. Good. Passion this indecent should always come with a record."

Proposal At 1,454 Feet

The incident took place on July 1, when 33-year-old Angela Nikolau and 32-year-old Ivan Beerkus, also known as Ivan Kuznetsov, climbed the Empire State Building's antenna to a height of 1,454 feet above street level.

Dressed in black and wearing masks, the pair unfurled a banner that read, "When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shuchir Suri (@shuchirsuri)

Moments later, Beerkus proposed to Nikolau, who accepted. She later shared a photograph of her engagement ring on Instagram with the New York skyline in the background.

Arrested After Climbing Down

The New York Police Department said officers responded to the incident at around 12:00 local time.

"On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, approximately 1200 hours, two unknown individuals were observed on the antenna of the Empire State Building located 20 West 34 Street, within the confines of Midtown South Precinct. NYPD's Emergency Service Unit responded. Two individuals were taken into custody without incident. There are no reported injuries," the department said.

Authorities are investigating how the pair accessed the restricted section of the building. According to a source cited by the New York Post, they are believed to have breached a mesh gate between the 102nd and 103rd floors, with the upper level reserved for maintenance personnel.

Multiple Criminal Charges

Following their arrest, Nikolau and Beerkus were charged with felony burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, criminal tampering, disorderly conduct and possession of burglar's tools.

The couple reportedly spent their first night in custody in separate holding cells near lower Manhattan criminal court and were scheduled to appear before a judge the following morning.

Both are Russian nationals and are understood to reside in New Jersey.

Empire State Building Responds

An Empire State Building spokesperson said, "The unauthorised incident at the building has been resolved with the constructive and helpful coordination of the New York Police Department. There was at no time danger to tenants, visitors, and Empire State Building Observation Deck guests."

US Plans Tougher EB-5 Visa Rules: What The Proposal Means For Indian Investors

Sakshi Arora — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 17:20:29 +0530

The United States is preparing to tighten the rules governing one of its most popular investment-linked immigration programmes, a move that could raise the cost of obtaining permanent residency for future applicants, including many from India.

The proposed changes, announced by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), would increase the minimum investment required for certain EB-5 visa projects while introducing stricter compliance standards for organisations that manage investor funds. According to the department, the objective is to strengthen transparency and investor protection rather than expand the programme.

For Indian high-net-worth individuals who view the EB-5 route as a pathway to US residency, the proposal could make the application process more rigorous while also increasing the capital needed for specific investments.

India Among Key EB-5 Markets

India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sources of EB-5 applications in recent years. The programme has gained popularity among families seeking long-term residency in the United States for education, business expansion or relocation.

Most investors do not establish businesses themselves. Instead, they invest through government-approved regional centres that channel funds into commercial projects designed to create jobs for American workers.

These regional centres are now at the heart of the proposed regulatory overhaul.

Focus Shifts From Expansion to Accountability

According to the DHS, the proposal primarily seeks to formalise reforms introduced under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022.

The department noted that while several safeguards introduced under the legislation are already operational, incorporating them into formal regulations would strengthen oversight and improve accountability across the programme.

The proposal follows years of criticism over instances of weak supervision, compliance failures and the misuse of investor funds at certain regional centres.

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Investment Requirement Could Increase

Among the most notable proposals is a higher investment threshold for projects located in high-employment areas.

If the draft rules are adopted, the minimum investment for such projects would rise to $1.4 million.

For other qualifying investments, the existing threshold of $1.05 million would continue.

The higher investment requirement could influence the project choices available to prospective applicants, particularly those currently evaluating EB-5 opportunities.

More Compliance Checks for Investors and Regional Centres

Beyond investment limits, the DHS has proposed a series of measures aimed at improving programme integrity.

These include mandatory biometric collection for applicants, enhanced compliance obligations for regional centres, more frequent audits and site inspections, stronger federal oversight of regional centre operations and provisions for the automatic revocation of certain investor petitions under circumstances defined by law.

According to the department, the objective is to reduce fraud risks while making the administration of the programme more transparent.

Existing Programme Remains Unchanged for Now

The proposal has not yet become law.

It will first be published in the Federal Register, after which the DHS will invite public comments for 60 days before deciding whether any revisions are required prior to issuing a final rule.

Until that process is complete, the current EB-5 framework will remain in force, although many governance measures introduced under the 2022 legislation are already being implemented.

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What Prospective Investors Should Watch

For prospective Indian applicants, the coming months could be significant.

If the regulations are finalised in their present form, some investment categories will require a larger financial commitment, while applicants and regional centres alike will be subject to stricter regulatory scrutiny.

At the same time, the enhanced oversight framework could offer greater confidence to genuine investors by strengthening transparency and improving safeguards around how EB-5 investments are managed.

'On Brink Of Failure': Ex-Singapore Envoy Says Pakistan's Military, Not India, Fuels Crisis

Bharathi SP — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 17:09:59 +0530

Former Singapore ambassador Bilahari Kausikan delivered a blunt assessment of Pakistan's political and economic situation during a recent global conference, arguing that the country's challenges are rooted in decades of internal mismanagement rather than its geographic location or difficult relations with neighbouring countries. Responding to a question from a Pakistani journalist, Kausikan rejected the suggestion that Pakistan's troubles could largely be attributed to its strategic location and regional tensions, saying the country's leadership bears primary responsibility for its current predicament.

'You Cannot Blame Location On Everything'

Addressing the audience at the conference, Kausikan dismissed the argument that Pakistan's geography was the principal cause of its difficulties.

The former diplomat argued that Pakistan's longstanding governance issues, rather than external factors, have contributed to recurring political instability and economic challenges.

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

Criticises Political Leadership and Military

Kausikan was particularly critical of Pakistan's political establishment and the military's role in the country's affairs.

He remarked that Pakistan has been mismanaged terribly since the beginning and he didn't see any solution.

He suggested that structural governance issues have prevented the country from addressing its long-term economic and institutional challenges.

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

Diplomatic Gains 'Won't Feed Pakistani People'

While acknowledging Pakistan's recent diplomatic efforts, including its reported role in facilitating communication between the United States and Iran, Kausikan argued that such successes would have little impact on the daily lives of ordinary citizens.

Describing Pakistan as “a state teetering on the brink of failure,” he added, as per reports: “It hasn’t quite fallen over, for which we all should be grateful. The diplomatic success doesn’t change that fundamental reality. I don’t think the US is going to lift whatever restrictions in totality it has on Pakistan.”

Russia's Overnight Attacks Leave 4 Dead Across Ukraine

Deutsche Welle — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 17:08:13 +0530

Edited by: Karl Sexton

At least four people were killed and 10 others injured after Russia launched a series of overnight attacks on Ukraine, officials said Friday.

In the Sumy region, near the border with Russia, two women, an elderly man and a girl under the age of 2 were killed when a Russian drone hitting a house, authorities said.

Seven people were also injured after a Russian missile strike in the city of Kryvyi Rih, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's hometown.

Day Of Mourning In Kyiv

The overnight strikes came as the Ukrainian capital Kyiv was set to hold a day of mourning on Friday, a day after Russian attacks killed at least 30 people .

Thursday's attacks, the deadliest on the capital this year, also injured more than 90 people, the head of Kyiv's military administration Tymur Tkachenko said, adding that the number of casualties was likely to rise as rescue efforts continued on Friday.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko described it as the "enemy's most massive attack on the capital."

The Ukrainian Red Cross said its humanitarian warehouse had also been damaged by the Russian attacks, with 320,000 relief items being destroyed.

The damage will affect "emergency response and humanitarian operations across Ukraine," the organization said on its X account.

More Lives Could Have Been Saved, Zelenskyy Says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cut a visit to Ireland short in the wake of Thursday's attacks.

In a video on his X account, he said Ukraine's allies should have delivered air defenses to his country, as promised.

"If our partners had delivered on their promises in a timely manner, I think we could have saved more homes and lives today," Zelenskyy said.

According to Ukraine's Air Force spokesperson Yuri Ihnat, Russia launched 74 missiles and 496 drones at Ukraine overnight.

Moscow's defense ministry said its "massive attack" hit military and energy facilities, with the attacks a retaliation for Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia. President Vladimir Putinwas also briefed on the attacks, the Kremlin said.

EU Mulls More Sanctions On Russia

The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has said she would propose new sanctions on "entities supporting Russia's military-industrial complex" in response to the strikes.

"The more Moscow attacks civilians, the more sanctions must be imposed," she posted on her X account on Thursday.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also condemned the attacks, describing them as a "deadly pattern" of Moscow hitting populated areas.

Russia's full-scale war on Ukraine is in its fifth year, with US-led mediation efforts bringing little progress towards a cessation of hostilities so far.

The Ukrainian president is set to attend next week's NATO summit, where he hopes to meet US President Donald Trump.

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. for DW

Khamenei Funeral: Where Was His Body Kept Until Now? Why Was Burial Delayed? Here's What We Know

Sneha — Fri, 3 Jul 2026 16:49:25 +0530

The body of Iran's slain Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was placed in state in Tehran on Friday as senior clerics, government officials, foreign dignitaries and thousands of mourners gathered to pay their final respects to the leader who ruled the Islamic Republic for nearly four decades.

The state funeral marks the beginning of a week-long series of ceremonies, with Iran portraying the event as both a tribute to Khamenei and a display of national unity following the four-month conflict with the United States and Israel. Khamenei was killed in February in airstrikes that Tehran says targeted its top leadership.

Body To Be Taken Across Iran And Iraq

After lying in state in Tehran, Khamenei's remains are scheduled to be taken to the holy cities of Qom in Iran and Najaf and Karbala in Iraq before his final burial in Mashhad, home to the revered Imam Reza shrine.

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

On Thursday evening, his coffin was unveiled before grieving supporters, who chanted prayers, wept and showered it with flowers. On Friday, the coffin, along with those of several family members killed alongside him, was placed in the prayer hall built in honour of Iran's first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

The ceremony was attended by Iranian political leaders, including the president, parliament speaker and foreign minister, as well as delegations from countries including Russia, China, Iraq, Armenia and Pakistan. Members of the families of Hezbollah leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Imad Mughniyeh were also present.

Why The Funeral Was Delayed

Under Islamic tradition, burial usually takes place within 24 hours of death. However, Khamenei's funeral was postponed because of security concerns during the conflict, Reuters reported.

Under Islamic tradition, burials are generally conducted within 24 hours of death. However, Iranian authorities delayed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral due to security concerns during the conflict, with the ceremonies scheduled only after an interim truce was reached last month.

To accommodate the expected influx of mourners, hotels are offering discounted stays, while schools, mosques and sports halls have been converted into temporary lodging facilities. Public transport, including bus and rail services, has also been reorganised to facilitate travel for the funeral events.

The funeral programme will begin with a large public procession in central Tehran on Monday. Khamenei's remains will then be taken to the holy city of Qom on Tuesday for religious ceremonies, followed by events in the Iraqi shrine cities of Najaf and Karbala on Wednesday, where members of Iran's regional allies are expected to attend.

Where Was Body Kept Until Now?

Experts say his body was most likely preserved through refrigerated cold storage rather than chemical embalming, which is generally prohibited under Islamic law.

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Counterterrorism expert Dr Mohammed Omar told Fox News Digital that Shia jurisprudence allows delayed burial under exceptional circumstances and permits refrigerated preservation when required.

He added that Iran's forensic facilities routinely preserve bodies for extended periods, making long-term cold storage feasible under religious and legal exemptions.

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.)