Category Archives: international relations

controversy, international relations, politics, social issues, sports

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

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**Asia Cup 2025: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 21, 2025, 09:53 pm*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has come under fire for his controversial celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India. After scoring a stylish half-century, Farhan made a gun firing gesture towards his dugout, a move that sparked widespread criticism and outrage.

The incident has been particularly sensitive given the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian citizens at the hands of Pakistan-based militants. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment over Farhan’s actions, interpreting the gesture as an insensitive provocation.

**The Controversial Celebration**

Farhan reached his 50 runs in impressive fashion during the match on September 21, hitting a massive six off Axar Patel in the 10th over. However, instead of a standard celebration, Farhan’s firing gun gesture quickly drew sharp attention and backlash online, overshadowing his performance.

**Reactions from Fans**

Social media users reacted swiftly to Farhan’s gesture, condemning it for being inappropriate amidst the recent tragic events. One disappointed fan wrote, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the IND vs PAK match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another user added, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

**Match Summary**

On the field, Pakistan faced challenges early in their innings at the Dubai International Stadium. They lost three wickets during the powerplay. Farhan himself was eventually dismissed by Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube for 58 runs off 45 balls.

Dube had earlier taken the wicket of Saim Ayub, who scored 21 runs. Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended controversially when he was caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav took the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to keep Pakistan’s score in check during this crucial Super 4 match.

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The Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan always carries intense emotions on and off the field, but Farhan’s celebration has heightened debates around sportsmanship and respect amid ongoing political sensitivities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

controversy, international relations, politics, social issues, sports

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

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**Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 21, 2025, 9:53 PM*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan’s celebration following his half-century in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India has sparked widespread criticism and controversy.

During the match held on September 21 at the Dubai International Stadium, Farhan reached his 50 runs in style by smashing a huge six off India’s Axar Patel in the 10th over, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings. However, his subsequent celebration raised eyebrows — Farhan made a firing gun gesture pointed towards his dugout.

This act quickly drew backlash on social media, given the sensitive context. The incident occurred only months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent Indian tourists lost their lives in an assault claimed to be carried out by Pakistan-based militants. Many fans interpreted Farhan’s gesture as highly inappropriate and disrespectful in light of recent events.

**Public Reaction and Outrage**

Social media users were swift to express their disappointment and anger over Farhan’s celebration. One fan tweeted, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the Ind vs Pak match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another harshly commented, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

The gesture not only overshadowed Farhan’s on-field performance but also intensified tensions between cricket fans amid the longstanding rivalry between the two nations.

**Match Summary**

In the Super 4 clash, Pakistan faced early setbacks as they lost three wickets in the powerplay overs. Farhan gave a fighting effort, scoring 58 runs off 45 balls before being dismissed by Shivam Dube.

Earlier wickets included Saim Ayub, who was taken out by Dube after scoring 21, and Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman, controversially caught behind by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. Kuldeep Yadav also claimed the wicket of Hussain Talat as India aimed to restrict Pakistan’s scoring.

The match remains a high-stakes encounter as both teams compete fiercely in the Asia Cup tournament.

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*Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis of the Asia Cup 2025.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

conflict, government, international relations, Middle East, politics

Palestinian foreign minister says recognition brings independence, sovereignty closer

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Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian stated that the recognition of a Palestinian state by several countries this week represents an irreversible step that brings independence and sovereignty closer. This move is seen as preserving the two-state solution, which remains a critical goal for peace in the region.

Countries recognizing a Palestinian state are contributing to the realization of long-standing aspirations for Palestinian self-determination. Such diplomatic developments highlight growing international support for a negotiated settlement based on two states, living side by side in peace and security.

Photo credit: REUTERS/BORUT ZIVULOVIC

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868276

controversy, fan behavior, golf, international relations, sports

Ryder Cup: Team USA Warned of Abuse From Home Crowd Over $500K Pay

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In just one week, golf’s fiercest rivalry returns to American soil with Team Keegan Bradley and Team Luke Donald facing off once again. This time, the battleground is New York’s renowned Bethpage Black course.

Bethpage Black is famous for its noisy, unapologetic fans, and Team Europe has already taken steps to prepare for the inevitable chaos. Players have been equipped with personalized VR headsets loaded with crowd noise and verbal abuse tailored to each individual, helping them mentally brace for the intense atmosphere.

However, it turns out that Team USA may not be immune to scrutiny either. Former Ryder Cup player Andrew Coltart, who famously faced Tiger Woods in singles at Brookline in 1999, warns that the American squad could face backlash from their own fans if things start to go wrong early.

This year’s event carries added pressure due to the controversial payouts involved. Each member of Team USA will receive $500,000, with $300,000 designated for charity and the remaining $200,000 as a personal stipend. Coltart isn’t convinced this financial incentive will boost motivation.

“What does the $200,000 do to them?” Coltart told bunkered.co.uk. “Is that going to make you a little bit more determined to do a little bit extra practice in the morning or what? I don’t get it. Potentially it could harm them. Again, as it pretty much did in 1999 when I played.”

He recalled how payment demands stirred controversy back then and fears history could repeat itself. This time, Coltart believes the passionate New York crowd won’t hesitate to turn on their own players if expectations aren’t met.

“They wanted $100,000 and, you know, the punter who pays to go and watch the Ryder Cup, they want their team to just absolutely give it their all. They deflected that by saying, ‘oh, well, it’s for charity.’ So, OK, fine. But now, again, they have to get this sort of financial remuneration for it, which I guess is the difference between Europe and America. If they’re getting paid and they don’t turn up, good God, you know, the New York crowd will go after them.”

Coltart didn’t hold back when discussing the pressure Bradley’s team could face. “It could almost turn into an away game for them. If they don’t get off to a fast start, you know, and you can see the headlines, if so-and-so doesn’t play that well or gets beaten by a pairing that they expect they should have won, the American crowd in that area are going to try and eat them alive.”

It’s not just the players being cautioned. Reports indicate that Team Europe’s WAGs have been advised to stay off the course during play. With emotions expected to run high, the Bethpage crowd is unlikely to hold back when the pressure hits.

Golf fans everywhere can expect an electric atmosphere as this legendary rivalry unfolds once again on American soil. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling showdown at Bethpage Black.
https://www.newsweek.com/sports/golf/ryder-cup-team-usa-home-crowd-warning-500k-pay-2132905

defense, geopolitics, international relations, politics, war

Russia launches large-scale attack on Ukraine, three dead, dozens injured

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The enemy’s target was our infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated. He added that a missile armed with cluster munitions struck a multi-storey building in the city of Dnipro.

“Each such strike is not a military necessity but a deliberate strategy by Russia to intimidate civilians and destroy our infrastructure,” Zelenskyy wrote on his official Telegram account.

The Ukrainian president also informed that he expected to meet United States (US) President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) next week. He added that the first ladies of Ukraine and the US would likely hold separate talks focused on humanitarian issues concerning children. His comments, made on Friday, were embargoed until Saturday morning.

At least 30 people were wounded in the attack in Ukraine’s central Dnipropetrovsk region, Governor Serhii Lysak said. Several high-rise buildings and homes were damaged in the eastern city of Dnipro, according to the Associated Press (AP).

### Russia-Ukraine War: Drone and Missile Strikes Continue

In the Kyiv region, authorities reported strikes in Bucha, Boryspil, and Obukhiv, damaging homes and cars. In western Lviv, Governor Maxim Kozytsky said two cruise missiles were shot down.

Russia launched a total of 619 drones and missiles, the Ukrainian Air Force reported. This included 579 drones, eight ballistic missiles, and 32 cruise missiles. Ukrainian forces successfully shot down 552 drones, two ballistic missiles, and 29 cruise missiles.

“Western weapons once again prove their effectiveness on the battlefield,” the Air Force said.

### Russia Denies Violating Estonia’s Airspace

Russia’s Defence Ministry has denied that its aircraft violated Estonia’s airspace after Tallinn reported that three Russian fighter jets crossed into its territory on Friday without permission for 12 minutes.

The incident, described by Estonia’s top diplomat as an unprecedentedly brazen incursion, occurred just over a week after NATO planes downed Russian drones over Poland, raising fears that the war could spill over into neighboring countries.

Moscow stated that the MiG-31 fighter jets remained over neutral Baltic Sea waters, more than 3 kilometres from Estonia’s Vaindloo Island in the Gulf of Finland. On September 19, the three MiG-31 jets completed a scheduled flight from Karelia to an airfield in the Kaliningrad region. The flight was conducted in strict compliance with international airspace regulations and did not violate the borders of other states, the ministry added, citing objective monitoring data.

In response, Estonian officials said Tallinn had summoned a Russian diplomat to protest and initiated consultations among NATO allies under Article 4, which allows members to confer whenever territorial integrity, political independence, or security is threatened.

### Polish and Allied Aircraft Scrambled

Poland’s Operational Command reported that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed overnight in response to Russian long-range airstrikes in neighboring Ukraine. The operation was described as preventive and aimed at securing airspace near the threatened zones.

Polish jets have frequently patrolled the country’s airspace amid Russian attacks on Ukraine. Last week, Romania also deployed two F-16 jets to intercept a drone that briefly entered its airspace.

### Zelenskyy Seeks to Finalise Security Guarantees in New York Meetings

Zelenskyy said Ukraine and its partners have laid the groundwork for long-term security guarantees, and he hopes to gauge progress during next week’s meetings in New York.

European nations are ready to move forward with a framework if the United States remains closely engaged, Zelenskyy added, noting that discussions are ongoing among military leadership and general staffs in Europe and the US.

“I would like to receive signals for myself on how close we are to understanding that the security guarantees from all partners will be the kind we need,” Zelenskyy said.

He stressed that sanctions against Russia must remain if peace efforts stall and said he would press the issue with Trump.

“If the war continues and there is no movement toward peace, we expect sanctions,” he said, adding that Trump is seeking strong steps from Europe.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/russia-ukraine-war-three-killed-in-massive-drone-and-missile-attack-across-nine-regions-says-volodymyr-zelenskyy-23594995

afghanistan, defense, international relations, politics

Trump seeks to reclaim Taliban-conquered air base in Afghanistan

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**Trump Seeks to Reclaim Taliban-Conquered Air Base in Afghanistan**

Former President Donald Trump has expressed intentions to reclaim Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, which was recently taken over by the Taliban. Citing strategic concerns, Trump highlighted the air base’s proximity to China as a key motivation behind this proposed move. According to him, Bagram is located approximately an hour away from a site where China is reportedly developing nuclear weapons.

![A Taliban soldier enters a helicopter at Bagram Air Base in Parwan, Afghanistan, September 23, 2021](image-url.jpg)
*Caption: A Taliban soldier enters a helicopter at Bagram Air Base in Parwan, Afghanistan, September 23, 2021.*
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868131

business, international relations, politics, technology

EXCLUSIVE: ‘Dishonest’ Trump Keeping Information From UK Prime Minister During Meeting, Body Language Expert Claims… as Prez Signs Massive $350B Tech Deal

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**Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Sign $350 Billion Technology Deal Amid Speculation**

*Published: September 19, 2025, 2:45 p.m. ET*

Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer may have finalized a monumental $350 billion deal this week, but according to a body language expert, the U.S. president could be withholding critical information.

On Thursday, September 18, President Trump signed a joint memorandum of understanding that authorizes multi-billion dollar investments in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), civil nuclear energy, and quantum computing.

### Details of the Deal

During a press conference, Trump and Starmer announced the **Technology Prosperity Deal**, touting it as a significant win for both nations that could create up to 17,500 new jobs across the United States and the United Kingdom.

“This trip has galvanized $350 billion in deals across many sectors, and we’re committed to ensuring that the UK is a secure and reliable supply of the best AI, hardware, and software on Earth, and we supply that and make sure we supply it in quantity to the UK,” Trump remarked.

The 79-year-old president joked that it was “a better deal for you than us,” while praising Starmer’s negotiation skills.

Starmer referred to the agreement as “a good deal” and added, “It’s a blueprint to win this new era together, shape it according to our shared values, and seize the incredible opportunities that are on offer.”

### What’s Trump Hiding?

Despite the positive public exchanges, body language expert Inbaal Honigman observed a different dynamic, especially noting Trump’s hand gestures during the meeting.

“The President’s hands are close together, and he might be keeping his cards close to his chest, while the Prime Minister’s hands are wider apart, fingers splayed, which indicates sincerity and honesty,” Honigman told RadarOnline.com.

She continued, “As both are involved in creating a historic deal, there’s still a big advantage to the U.S. leader, as his body language suggests that he knows some stuff that his British counterpart doesn’t know.”

According to Honigman, Starmer “wasn’t sure what to expect” from their encounter and was “not confident the meeting would go well.”

### Are Trump’s Enemies Plotting?

Social media users have also expressed skepticism about Trump’s true motives with this massive agreement, with some branding it as “fake.”

One user questioned, “So, Trump wants the UK to get involved in AI for the US and turn it into a surveillance state to match the UK’s?”

Another added, “Great news… more fake deals.”

Some pointed out domestic priorities being overlooked, with one saying, “But not enough money for school lunches, Offender Registry, Sesame Street, or Environmental Cleanup. Priorities.”

While Trump appears to be fostering friendly relations with the UK, his global standing is far from secure. Reports suggest that China, Russia, and North Korea are covertly collaborating on a disturbing initiative to develop “biotech-fueled super soldiers” aimed at global domination.

### Secret Meeting of Authoritarian Leaders

Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un, and China’s Xi Jinping recently convened in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender. However, alongside celebratory events, the three dictators allegedly discussed plans to create “super soldiers.”

Sources claim the leaders were overheard on a hot mic discussing chilling topics, including harvesting human organs from political prisoners, advanced biotechnology, and medical transplants that could potentially allow soldiers and leaders to live—and fight—well beyond typical human lifespans, possibly for 150 years or more.

“In a few years, with the development of biotechnology, human organs can be constantly transplanted so that [people] can live younger and younger, and even become immortal,” Putin reportedly told Xi.

### Trump’s Response

It appears that Trump may have caught wind of these clandestine discussions. Historically active on his Truth Social platform, he wrote recently:

“May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration. Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against the United States of America.”

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As the Technology Prosperity Deal moves forward, the world watches closely to see what this historic agreement truly entails — and what it might be hiding beneath the surface.
https://radaronline.com/p/trump-keeping-information-from-uk-prime-minister-keir-starmer-tech-deal/

conflict, international relations, Middle East, organizations, politics

UN allows Palestinian President Abbas to speak via video after US denies visa

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Riyad H. Mansour, the Palestinian Permanent Observer to the United Nations, is seen on screens as he addresses delegates following the United Nations General Assembly vote on the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.

The event took place at the UN headquarters in New York City, US, on September 12, 2025.

(Photo credit: REUTERS/EDUARDO MUNOZ)
By REUTERS
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https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868109

community development, environment, government, international relations, politics

‘Seva Pakhwada’ launched in Palghar to mark PM Modi`s 75 birthday

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**Seva Pakhwada Launched Across India to Promote People-Centric Governance and Environmental Conservation**

The Seva Pakhwada (Service Fortnight) under Maharashtra government’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Rajaswa Mission was formally launched in Palghar by District Collector Indu Rani Jakhar, an official announced on Friday. This 15-day-long Sewa Pakhwada, initiated by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to mark the 75th birthday of its prominent leader, runs from September 17 to October 2.

The initiative aims to provide citizens with direct access to government services and ensure faster delivery of welfare scheme benefits. It is part of the state government’s broader effort to promote efficient, people-centric governance at the grassroots level, according to reports by news agency PTI.

During her visit, Collector Jakhar reviewed various development initiatives and government schemes in Jawhar and Mokhada talukas. She also inspected farm ponds constructed under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). In Mokhada taluka, 53 farm ponds have been approved for 2025-26, while Poshera has 35, Hirve 10, and Ase 8. Each pond is designed to store 2.5 lakh litres of water, aiding local irrigation and water conservation efforts.

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**Diplomats from 70 Nations Participate in Sapling Plantation During Delhi’s Seva Pakhwada**

In New Delhi, diplomats from 70 countries came together to plant saplings at the Central Ridge as part of the Delhi government’s 15-day Sewa Pakhwada. A total of 75 diplomats, alongside Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, attended the event on Thursday.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta planted a tree under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and highlighted the global significance of the diplomats’ participation. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she said, “The participation of 75 diplomats from 70 countries has given the campaign a form of global cooperation and shared responsibility.”

Under the Seva Pakhwada, observed on the birthday of visionary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” campaign not only spreads the message of environmental conservation but also symbolizes gratitude toward Mother Earth, she added.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa also posted on X, emphasizing that the involvement of foreign diplomats has transformed the mission into a truly global event.

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**PM Modi to Launch ‘Sewa Pakhwada’ and Foundation of PM MITRA Park in Madhya Pradesh**

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the country’s first PM MITRA Park and launch the fortnight-long ‘Sewa Pakhwada’ during his visit to Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced.

In addition to these events, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyan at Bhainsola village in Dhar district. The campaign focuses on the health and empowerment of women, reinforcing the government’s commitment to social welfare.

These events mark a concentrated push by the central and state governments to enhance public service delivery, environmental sustainability, and community development initiatives across India.

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*With inputs from PTI*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/maharashtra-seva-pakhwada-launched-in-palghar-under-rajaswa-mission-23594841

business, economy, international relations, politics, trade

Canada launching CUSMA review consultation Friday, LeBlanc says

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Dominic LeBlanc announces that consultations on the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) will begin this Friday, ahead of a planned review of the North American trade pact next year. The Canadian trade minister stated that Ottawa will engage with provinces, territories, industry representatives, and workers in preparation for formal negotiations with the United States and Mexico scheduled for 2026.

An exemption for CUSMA-compliant goods has so far shielded much of Canada’s trade from U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff war. However, sectoral duties remain in effect in industries such as steel, aluminum, automotive, and softwood lumber.

LeBlanc noted that while Ottawa would be open to signing a broader deal with the U.S. should Washington propose terms beneficial to Canada, his immediate priority is addressing the existing sectoral tariffs.

Meanwhile, Carney and Sheinbaum emphasized that the upcoming trade agreement will complement CUSMA, strengthening cooperation among the three countries.

*With files from Craig Lord in Ottawa*
https://globalnews.ca/news/11436583/canada-launching-cusma-review-consultation/