January 9, 2025 – BOL News Staging

New WPV1 case reports in Pakistan

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed a new case of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in a male child from Karachi East. This marks the second polio case reported from Karachi East this year and brings the nationwide total to 70 cases in 2024. The … Read more

Pakistan partners with Chinese company to manufacture freight wagons

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

As many as 115 flat wagons are being collected in Complete Knocked Down (CKD) form in a factory in Lahore with plans for them to roll out in April this year. These wagons are part of a larger order of 620 freight wagons being jointly formed by Pakistan Railways and the Chinese company Baotou Beifang … Read more

Malala Yousafzai to visit Pakistan for girls’ education conference

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

Malala Yousafzai, the world’s youngest Nobel laureate, is set to visit Pakistan to attend a two-day international conference on girls’ education in Islamabad, where she will be a special guest. Education Secretary Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani confirmed that Malala will return home following her participation in the event, scheduled for January 11 and 12. The conference, … Read more

PRCS distributes aid to 2,000 families in Kurram

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has provided vital assistance to the crisis-stricken communities in Parachinar and Kurram, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), distributing 2,000 relief items through the PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa branch. Acting swiftly on the request of KP Governor, Mr. Faisal Karim Kundi, PRCS Chairman Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari ensured the timely delivery of non-food … Read more

Indian Army unveils blueprint for ‘Year of Reforms’

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

The Indian Army has unveiled an ambitious reform blueprint for 2025, aiming to modernize its operational framework, enhance inter-service coordination, and integrate cutting-edge technologies. The initiative seeks to address contemporary security challenges while fostering a more agile and combat-ready force. A central aspect of the reform plan is the establishment of integrated theatre commands, designed … Read more

Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui stresses to promote girls’ education

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, announced that the ministry is set to host an international conference on girls’ education in Islamabad, marking a significant step forward. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, he stated that the event will be organized in collaboration with the Muslim World League and … Read more

Los Angeles Wildfires Escalate, Prompting Evacuations in Hollywood

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

Massive wildfire near Los Angeles reaches 9,400 acres

Wildfires around Los Angeles intensified on Wednesday, spreading to the Hollywood Hills after devastating other areas, killing at least five people, destroying hundreds of homes, and straining firefighting efforts and water supplies. Over 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate as powerful, dry winds fueled the fires, which have scorched thousands of acres since Tuesday. Los … Read more

PMD predicts slight relief from Karachi’s cold wave

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast a slight drop in Karachi’s cold weather from Thursday night, although the city will remain chilly and dry for the next 24 hours. Karachi recorded a minimum temperature of 8.5°C last night, with the PMD predicting it could range between 8-10°C in the coming day. Humidity levels were … Read more

Lebanese army chief edges towards presidency, Lebanese sources say

January 9, 2025 by Nimra Sohail

Lebanon’s parliament is likely to elect Army Chief Joseph Aoun as president on Thursday, ending a leadership vacuum since 2022. This decision shows Hezbollah’s reduced influence, as it previously supported a different candidate, Suleiman Frangieh. The presidency, reserved for a Maronite Christian, has been vacant since Michel Aoun’s term ended in October 2022. No group … Read more

Federal Govt to introduce bike-riding police to patrol on motorways

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has decided to launch a pilot project for a motorbike service to enhance security and surveillance on motorways.

It has been decided to start a pilot project of motorbike service for security and surveillance on motorways.

Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan gave the administration the task of increasing patrolling on the motorways and tightening security. Khan stated that there should be 30 to 35 motorbikes patrolling different sectors of the motorway simultaneously.

Abdul Aleem Khan said that in the first phase, the Motorway Police should start the bike service from its own resources, and it will be increased further. He directed that an effective strategy should also be adopted to prevent the theft of safety fence on the motorway.

The Minister of Communications also proposed to amend the legislation for the powers of the Motorway Police. He said that the Motorway Police must take more responsibility for the safety of citizens.

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‘Dexter’ star Courtney Ford files for divorce from husband Brandon Routh

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Courtney Ford filed for divorce from her husband Brandon Routh. Irreconcilable differences are the reason for the split. The couple shares a 12-year-old son, Leo. Actress Courtney Ford has filed for divorce from her husband, actor Brandon Routh, bringing an end to their 17-year marriage. The Dexter star cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for … Read more

Court upholds non-bailable arrest warrant of KP CM

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: The District and Sessions Court of Islamabad has upheld the non-bailable arrest warrant of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur in the audio leak case.

The audio leak case against Chief Minister KP Ali Amin Gandapur was heard in the District Sessions Court Islamabad during which Ali Amin and his lawyer did not appear in the court.

The court upheld the non-bailable arrest warrant of Chief Minister KP Ali Amin Gandapur while canceling the non-bailable arrest warrant of co-accused Asad Farooq when he appeared in the court.

Later, the District and Sessions Court adjourned further hearing of the case till January 25.

It should be noted that the alleged audio of Ali Amin Gandapur with a person regarding Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf’s long march in 2022 was leaked in which Ali Amin Gandapur is asking how many guns there are, to which the other person says a lot.

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Naqvi bids farewell to US Ambassador Donald Blome

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi hosted a farewell meeting with outgoing US Ambassador Donald Blome on Thursday.

The two discussed matters of mutual interest, including the strengthening of Pakistan-US relations and strategies for addressing global challenges such as terrorism.

Minister Naqvi praised Ambassador Blome’s contributions to fostering ties between the two nations and extended his best wishes for the diplomat’s future endeavors.

During the meeting, the US Ambassador condemned recent incidents of terrorism in Pakistan, reaffirming the need for global cooperation to combat the menace. Minister Naqvi echoed this sentiment, stating, “Terrorism is a global issue that requires a unified response. The international community must collaborate to devise a comprehensive plan for its eradication.”

The Interior Minister also emphasized Pakistan’s strict stance on illegal immigration, declaring that no unauthorized foreign nationals would be allowed to reside in the country.

Ambassador Blome expressed gratitude for the support he received from Pakistani institutions during his tenure, acknowledging their cooperation in facilitating diplomatic efforts.

The meeting was attended by Federal Secretary of Interior Khurram Ali Agha and US Deputy Head of Mission Natalie Baker.

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Billy Crystal, wife Janice express heartbreak over losing home to Pacific Palisades fire

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Billy Crystal and his wife confirmed losing their home to LA wildfire.
The couple expressed their heartbreak over the loss.
They also reflected on their time in the house.

Actor Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, have confirmed that the devastating Pacific Palisades fire has destroyed their home of nearly 50 years. In a joint statement, the couple expressed their heartbreak over the loss

The couple stated, “Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing. We ache for our friends and neighbors who have also lost their homes and businesses in this tragedy.”

The couple reflected on their time in the home, saying, “Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away.” Despite the heartache, Crystal and his wife found comfort in the support of their loved ones, adding, “With the love of our children and friends, we will get through this.”

The fire, which has burned more than 15,800 acres, has affected many notable figures, including Eugene Levy, the honorary mayor of Pacific Palisades, and celebrities like Mandy Moore, Diane Warren, and James Woods, who lost their homes. The destruction has also claimed historical landmarks such as the Topanga Ranch Motel, Will Rogers’ historic ranch house, and the Palisades Charter High School. Nearly 1,000 homes have been destroyed as the fire continues to wreak havoc.

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ADB upgrades Pakistan’s growth prospects to 3% in FY25

January 10, 2025January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD:Asian Development Bank (ADB), in its recent publication, has revised upwards Pakistan’s growth forecast to 3.0% during the fiscal year 2024-25, from 2.8% projected in September 2024.

According to the report, greater macroeconomic stability, following the approval of the new International Monetary Fund (IMF) program under the Extended Fund Facility in September will support recovery.

The report says, industrial output growth is projected to accelerate with the suspension of import management measures, higher investor confidence, and easier access to foreign exchange.

A more accommodative monetary policy because of faster-than-expected easing of inflationary pressures should further support economic activity through rebounding private investment.

However, growth in agriculture is expected to weaken due to the heavy monsoon downpours during July–September 2024 and flood-like conditions in parts of the country. Wheat and cotton, two of Pakistan’s five major crops, are projected to perform poorly in FY2025.

The Asian Development Outlook for December 2024 also revised growth for FY2024, upwards to 2.5%, in line with the updated official estimate.

In South Asia, the growth forecasts have been revised downward to 5.9% for 2024 and 6.3% for 2025. The lower forecast for 2024 is mainly due to India’s lower-than-expected Quarter 2 growth, driven by dampened manufacturing sector performance and lagging government spending.

While growth forecasts for Pakistan and Sri Lanka have been upgraded due to their recovery from the macroeconomic challenges of 2022– 2023, downward revisions for Bangladesh and Maldives have further weighed on the 2024 outlook.

The latter two economies’ growth forecasts are also revised downward for 2025 due to the lingering effects of the political unrest of July-August 2024 in Bangladesh and fiscal consolidation measures in Maldives. Some weakening of growth is also expected for 2025 in Nepal relative to earlier forecasts.

According to the report, the growth forecast for developing Asia is trimmed to 4.9% for 2024 and 4.8% for 2025. Most adjustments to 2024 growth projections for individual economies and sub-regions are based on recent data releases.

The downward revisions to East Asia and South Asia offset the stronger growth in the Caucasus and Central Asia and Southeast Asia, shaving 0.1 percentage points from growth in the region. For 2025, slower growth is expected in South Asia due to weaker domestic demand prospects.

According to the report, developing Asia’s growth remains solid, but the new US presidential administration promises consequential changes.

Domestic demand remains strong in much of the region, and exports continue to support growth, although momentum has moderated.

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Oscar votting extended amid devastating Los Angeles wildfires

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

The Oscar voting period was extended due to deadly L:A wildfires.
The voting period was originally scheduled to close on January 12.
The announcement came in an email from Academy CEO.

In light of the deadly wildfires raging through Los Angeles, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended the Oscar nomination voting period.

Originally scheduled to close on January 12, the voting window for the nearly 10,000 Academy members will now remain open until January 14, as reported by Variety.

The announcement came in an email to members from Academy CEO Bill Kramer on Wednesday afternoon. “We want to offer our deepest condolences to those who have been impacted by the devastating fires across Southern California. So many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you,” Kramer wrote.

In addition to the voting extension, the Academy has postponed the nominations announcement from January 17 to January 19. Other schedule changes include the postponement of the International Feature Shortlist Screening and the cancellation of the in-person Sound Branch and Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch Bake-Offs, originally planned for January 11 in Los Angeles and New York.

Meanwhile, Conan O’Brien is set to host the 2025 Oscars ceremony on March 2.

The Los Angeles wildfires, fueled by excessive winds, have claimed at least five lives and destroyed over 1,000 structures in areas like Malibu and Santa Monica. CalFire has described the Palisades Fire as “the most destructive” in Los Angeles County’s history.

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FIA arrests five agents involved in human trafficking, visa fraud

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

LAHORE: Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested five agents involved in human trafficking and visa fraud from Gujranwala and Gujarat.

The FIA arrested five individuals from Gujranwala and Gujarat who are involved in human trafficking and visa fraud.

The FIA spokesperson said that among the arrested accused are Farooq Adil, Nazakat Ali, Muhammad Asif, Muhammad Arsalan and Adnan Ali. The accused used to send innocent citizens abroad illegally.

FIA spokesman further said that the arrested accused Farooq collected 1.4 million by pretending to be a Romanian job. The accused Nizakat got five million from people to send them to Libya and Europe.

FIA spokesperson said the accused Asif extorted 1.1 million from a citizen by pretending to work in Kyrgyzstan, while the accused Arsalan took 1.03 million by pretending to work in Kuwait.

The FIA spokesperson further said that the accused Adnan stole 1.3 million in the name of sending the citizen to Italy for employment.

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Triptii Dimri responds to prevailing rumors surrounding her private life

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Triptii Dimri has been in the spotlight for her personal life.
Her relationship rumors with Sam Merchant have added to the buzz.
She opened up about the relentless scrutiny surrounding her private life.

Triptii Dimri, celebrated for her roles in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Animal, and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, is not only in the spotlight for her acting career but also for her personal life.

Recent rumors about her relationship with model-turned-businessman Sam Merchant have added to the buzz, a reality the actress finds both challenging and inevitable.

In an interview with ETimes, Triptii opened up about the relentless scrutiny surrounding her private life. Addressing the rumors, she said, “Sometimes it really bothers because I love my freedom, and I miss the days where I could just walk on the roads without having to worry about anything; without a mask.” While she understands the curiosity that comes with fame, she admits it can feel overwhelming at times.

Triptii also spoke about maintaining authenticity on social media, a space where she prefers to remain selective. “I only post when I feel like it,” she shared, explaining how this approach keeps her grounded. Despite her team’s concerns about her inactivity, she prioritizes staying true to herself.

On the work front, 2024 was a banner year for Triptii. After delivering a hit in Bad Newz with Vicky Kaushal, she starred in Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Looking ahead, she will appear in Dhadak 2 with Siddhant Chaturvedi and Arjun Ustara alongside Shahid Kapoor.

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Cairo couple holds unusual wedding on street, video goes viral

January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

A video of an unconventional wedding of a Cairo couple has gone viral.
An Egyptian couple chose to forgo a lavish wedding ceremony.
They opted instead for a simple yet meaningful celebration.

A heartwarming video of an unconventional wedding in Cairo has gone viral, capturing the hearts of millions. Mustafa and Yasmeen, a couple from Menuofia Governorate in Egypt, chose to forgo a lavish wedding ceremony, opting instead for a simple yet meaningful celebration.

Explaining their decision, the groom said, “We wanted to reduce our wedding expenses and use the money for something more meaningful, like the Umrah pilgrimage.”

At dawn, the couple stepped onto the streets of Cairo for a romantic photo session, accompanied by wedding photographer Ahmed Mohammed Abdul Syed. The session began at 6 am, with the city’s iconic streets and squares as their backdrop. To their surprise, their intimate moment turned into a community celebration.

Car horns honked in joy, pedestrians stopped to smile and offer warm wishes, and women showered the newlyweds with prayers and blessings. Yasmeen described the experience as “a moment of pure love and connection with the people around us.”

The couple’s choice to prioritize faith over extravagance has struck a chord with many Egyptians. Their story has gone viral, resonating as a touching example of love, simplicity, and devotion. “It’s a day we’ll cherish forever,” Mustafa shared.

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IHC allows Latif Khosa to travel abroad

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday allowed senior advocate and Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) leader Latif Khosa to travel abroad.

A hearing was held in the Islamabad High Court on the petition to withdraw the name of senior advocate Latif Khosa from Exit Control List (ECL).

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani heard the plea of Latif Khosa. Advocate Latif Khosa appeared in the court.

The public prosecutor said that the name is in the ECL, a case is registered, on which the court inquired whether the challan has been submitted. On this lawyer said that the challan has not been submitted yet.

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani said that there is a violation of Section 144, what is this 7 ATA, should he be arrested.

Latif Khosa said that he had a flight on January 05 but he was not allowed to go. Now he has to go to Canada tomorrow. The court directed him to give an affidavit in the trial court that he will appear when the court summons him.

The Islamabad High Court allowed Latif Khosa to go abroad and adjourned the hearing.

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Agha Mustafa Hassan calls for breaking free from antihero roles

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Agha Mustafa Hassan expressed his frustration with the roles he gets.
He revealed his desire to take on more diverse roles.
He wants to escape the industry’s narrow perception of his talents..

Actor Agha Mustafa Hassan, renowned for his impactful performances, has expressed his frustration with being typecast as an antihero. Speaking on a comedy show, the Tere Bin star revealed his desire to take on more diverse roles and escape the industry’s narrow perception of his talents.

“Producers seem to have boxed me into a specific category. I’ve always wanted to prove my range, but somehow I keep being offered similar roles,” Agha lamented, shedding light on the challenges of breaking stereotypes in the entertainment industry.

While his acclaimed portrayal in Tere Bin earned him international recognition, it also solidified his image as an antihero. However, Agha is eager to expand his repertoire. “I want to do all kinds of roles, not just villains. There’s so much more to explore as an artist,” he shared passionately, emphasizing his versatility.

The actor also reflected on his personal life, sharing a heartfelt story of love and growth. “I experienced my first heartbreak at 18,” he revealed. “It was a difficult time, but life has a way of surprising you. I fell in love again at 26, and it brought me a new perspective.”

Agha’s candid remarks highlight his determination to evolve as an actor and his hope for opportunities that allow him to showcase his full potential.

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Seven-year old seminary student goes missing from Karachi

January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

KARACHI: A seven-year old boy Sarim has gone missing from North Nazimabad area of Karachi since last two day.

The Sarim has been missing for two days after leaving to attend madrassa in North Karachi. The family of Sarim has registered FIR of missing child fearing abduction. A case of alleged kidnapping of 7-year-old Sarim, a resident of North Karachi, has been registered after 2 days.

According to the details, 7-year-old boy Sarim was not found in North Karachi despite the passing of two days.

According to the family, Qari said that Sarim had gone back with his brother after reading, the flats where Sarum lives have a madrassa inside.

However, after two days, the police have registered a case under the kidnapping section of Bilal Colony police station on the complaint of father Mohsin Pervez.

Father Mohsin told the police that his son return back from the seminary at 3:40 PM every day, but his son did not return till 5:00 PM, so his wife informed him on the phone.

The father told the police that when he was returning, found Sarim’s gloves on the steps of the madrassa. He feared someone has kidnapped his son.

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Asma Abbas shuts trolls criticising Neelam Muneer following her marriage

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Asma Abbas has come to the defense of actress Neelam Muneer.
She urged people to stop the unwarranted criticism.
The nationality of Neelam’s groom sparked debates online.

Veteran actress Asma Abbas has come to the defense of actress Neelam Muneer, urging people to stop the unwarranted criticism surrounding her recent wedding.

The Kahin Deep Jalay star tied the knot in Dubai, sharing stunning visuals from her festivities, which quickly became the talk of the town.

The groom, Muhammad Rashid, is reportedly an officer with Dubai Police’s Crime Investigation Department. However, his nationality and profession sparked unnecessary debates online, prompting Asma Abbas to address the negativity in a heartfelt video shared on her YouTube channel.

“Pakistan’s talented and sweet actress Neelam Muneer has gotten married. She is such a beautiful soul,” Abbas said. She criticized the trolling, adding, “There is a limit to everything. First, you questioned his nationality, and now you’re discussing his profession. Why are you so curious about her life? Why can’t people let her be happy?”

Abbas praised Neelam for marrying at the right time and called for positivity, saying, “Please, try to be happy for others in their happiness.”

Neelam herself delighted fans by sharing photos from her baraat and Nikah, writing, “All these years telling my heart when the time is right, all those hundreds of prayers finally came true!”

The couple’s wedding, held against the picturesque backdrop of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, showcased Neelam in a stunning red bridal ensemble, while her husband wore a regal white sherwani, capturing hearts worldwide.

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Good news for Pakistanis Hajj pilgrims

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to take Hajj applications again on the remaining quota under the government Hajj scheme.

Under the government scheme, 5000 more pilgrims will be able to perform Hajj and applications will be received from next week. The proposal to fix 5 days for receiving new Hajj applications is under consideration.

Sources said that 81,500 Hajj applications were received under the government Hajj scheme while applications will be received on the quota of 5,000 left in the official Hajj scheme.

It is under consideration to set a five-day window for accepting these new Hajj applications, ensuring a swift and transparent process.

Meanwhile, an important meeting regarding private Hajj arrangements, chaired by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain.

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Mrunal Thakur mistakes fan account for Hania Amir’s account; netizens react humorously

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Mrunal Thakur recently had a humorous social media moment.
She mistook a fan account for Hania Aamir’s account.
Fans were quick to point out the mix-up.

Bollywood actress Mrunal Thakur recently had a humorous social media moment when she mistook a fan account of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir for the real one. The amusing mix-up occurred after the fan account, verified with a blue tick, praised Mrunal’s acting skills on X (formerly Twitter).

The fan page wrote, “I may be emotional, but for me, @mrunal0801 is the best actor of this generation. She is unparalleled. I don’t see any other actress as versatile as her in India.” Believing it was Hania Aamir herself, Mrunal replied enthusiastically with a tweet, “Hania, you made my day. Thank you so much, my dear.”

Fans quickly pointed out the mix-up, with one user writing, “That’s a fan page,” while another teased, “That’s not a real account, Mrunal.” Some even humorously criticized her PR team, saying, “I can help you build your Twitter a lot better than what your current team is doing.”

Taking the feedback in stride, Mrunal responded with humor and grace, saying, “Hahahaha, so sweet. I’m my team!”

On the work front, Mrunal is gearing up for her role in the action-drama Dacoit, opposite Adivi Sesh. Directed by Shaneil Deo, the film is set to release later this year.

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Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and others flee from their LA homes amid wildfire

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and other stars have fled the flames.
Among those who lost their homes is Cary Elwes.
Paris Hilton also confirmed her residence was reduced to ashes.

The devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have destroyed numerous homes, including those of several celebrities, and forced tens of thousands to evacuate. Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, James Woods, and other stars have fled the flames, which remain uncontained as firefighters battle high winds and strained resources.

Among those who lost their homes is Cary Elwes, known for The Princess Bride. “Sadly, we did lose our home, but we are grateful to have survived this truly devastating fire,” Elwes shared on Instagram. Paris Hilton also confirmed her Malibu residence was reduced to ashes. “This home was where we built so many precious memories… To know so many are waking up today without the place they called home is truly heartbreaking,” she wrote.

Leighton Meester’s $6.5 million mansion and Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie’s home were also destroyed. Jamie Lee Curtis shared her fears on Instagram, writing, “It’s a terrifying situation, and I’m grateful to the firefighters and all of the good Samaritans who are helping.”

Officials report that at least 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders, with 30,000 structures threatened. Five lives have been lost so far. Events like the Critics Choice Awards and film premieres have been postponed as the city grapples with the disaster.

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Pakistan calls for representative governance in Syria to ensure unity

January 9, 2025 by Abid Khan

UITED NATIONS: Pakistan has called for political inclusivity and representative governance in “fraternal” Syria following the overthrow of the Assad regime exactly a month ago, saying the process should be Syrian-led and Syrian-owned that is backed by the United Nations.

“Today, Syria is at an important juncture in its history,” Ambassador Munir Akram, Permanent representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, told the UN Security Council which debated the situation in that Arab country on Wednesday.

“The recent political developments offer the opportunity to restore normalcy, stability and peace in Syria,” he said, adding, “Yet this will depend on ensuring a peaceful transition to a new governance structure which is inclusive and stable and ensures Syria’s unity and territorial integrity.”

Earlier, Syria’s ambassador Koussay Aldahhak told the 15-member Council that the “dawn of freedom has broken”, and called on members of the UN to “respect the will of the Syrian people and its national choices.”

For this reason, he urged them to “immediately and fully lift unilateral coercive measures, to provide the necessary financing to meet humanitarian needs and recover basic services” and “to rehabilitate and reconstruct the damaged facilities and ensure demining.”

As the country is committed to improving conditions following 14 years of brutal conflict, the Syrian Ambassador called on the U.S. and other States to lift restrictive measures which targeted the previous regime.

Finally, he had a message for Israel in the Golan, “We stress the need to ensure that Israeli occupation entities do not take advantage of the current circumstances to violate Syria’s sovereignty in an attempt to impose a new reality through their military incursion to new parts of Syria,”

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Ben Affleck evacuates his LA home amid wildfire, seeks refuge at Jennifer Garner’s house

January 9, 2025 by Areej Afzal

Ben Affleck was forced to evacuate his Los Angeles home.
The wildfires in the Pacific Palisades area crept dangerously close.
He had arrived at his $20 million residence to assess the situation.

Actor Ben Affleck was forced to evacuate his Los Angeles home on Wednesday as wildfires in the Pacific Palisades area crept dangerously close.

The actor, reportedly “devastated,” arrived at his $20 million residence in the morning to assess the situation but ultimately had to abandon his efforts to save it by evening. According to Page Six, Affleck was seen looking visibly concerned as he drove away, seeking refuge at the home of his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, who lives nearby.

While Garner’s area remains on standby for evacuation, nearly 30,000 people in Los Angeles, including several celebrities, have already fled their homes due to the raging fires. Tragically, the wildfires have claimed five lives and caused widespread destruction.

The Associated Press reported that stars such as Mark Hamill, Mandy Moore, and James Woods were among those forced to evacuate. Mandy Moore, Cary Elwes, and Paris Hilton confirmed losing their homes, while others, including Adam Brody, Leighton Meester, and Anthony Hopkins, also reported severe losses.

The devastating fires continue to displace residents, leaving the fate of many homes uncertain as celebrities and locals alike face the widespread impact of the natural disaster.

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