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The death toll from Pakistan’s ongoing monsoon rains, flash floods, and landslides has risen to 110, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Since the start of the monsoon season on June 26, the severe weather has also left 360 people injured and damaged nearly 800 homes across the country. Punjab has recorded the highest number of casualties, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Global oil prices dropped sharply below $80 per barrel after signs of easing tensions in the Middle East improved investor confidence and reduced fears of major supply disruptions. The decline followed diplomatic developments involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, which prompted traders to scale back the geopolitical risk premium that had driven prices higher in recent weeks.

A senior Yemeni official has accused the Houthi movement of attempting to replicate Iran’s strategy in the Strait of Hormuz by increasing pressure on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea, warning that the group’s actions could threaten regional and global maritime security.

The federal government has announced a fresh revision in petroleum prices, offering a small reduction in the price of petrol while increasing the rate of high-speed diesel (HSD). The revised prices took effect from July 28, 2026, following recommendations by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). Under the latest notification, the price of petrol has been reduced by Re. 1 per litre, bringing the new rate to Rs. 334.18 per litre.

Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to make his acting debut in the upcoming football-themed drama Day 1s, marking a new chapter in his career beyond the football pitch. The project is expected to blend sport, drama, and inspirational storytelling, with Ronaldo taking on a key role both on and off the screen.

A senior Yemeni official has warned that the Houthi movement is attempting to replicate Iran’s strategy in the Strait of Hormuz by increasing pressure on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing concerns over the security of one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.

Pakistanis can look forward to seven holidays in August 2026, as the month combines five Sundays with two official public holidays declared by the federal government. The schedule offers several opportunities for families, employees, and students to enjoy extended breaks throughout the month. According to the official holiday calendar, the five Sundays in August fall on 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 August.

The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) has warned that Pakistan’s 5G rollout could struggle to achieve its full potential unless the government reduces the high taxes imposed on telecom services and smartphones. The industry body believes that affordability remains one of the biggest barriers to widespread 5G adoption in the country. According to the GSMA, Pakistan has made notable progress by completing its 5G spectrum auction and introducing reforms to spectrum pricing.

The federal government has announced a fresh revision in petroleum prices, reducing the price of petrol while increasing the cost of high-speed diesel (HSD). The revised rates will come into effect from July 28, 2026, under Pakistan’s daily fuel pricing mechanism. According to the official notification, the price of petrol has been reduced by Re. 1 per litre, bringing the new ex-depot price to Rs. 334.18 per litre.

US President Donald Trump is facing growing political and military scrutiny over his handling of the conflict with Iran, as questions intensify about Washington’s long-term strategy following a temporary pause in military strikes. The administration is balancing diplomatic efforts with continued military readiness amid concerns that the conflict could escalate again.