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Samina Peerzada CRITICISED Her Husband on Set

Samina Peerzada recently graced the stage of the popular comedy show Mazaaq Raat, sharing the spotlight with Imran Ashraf. Renowned for her poise and charm, she caught everyone off guard with her candid insights about her love life.

When the topic of teenage love came up, and how it often fizzles out once it’s fulfilled, her answer turned into a delightful mix of humour and sincerity.

Imran posed the question, “Jo bachay nadan hote hain, har daur mein rehay hain, unki baat kabhi kabhi sach ho jati hai wo aksar khetay hain, Mohabbat jab mil jaye tou khatam ho jati hai. Aap itne saalon baad kya kehti hain apni mohabbat ke bare mein?”

With a warm smile, Samina responded, “There are stages in love. Sometimes, it really is love at first sight. You’re drawn to someone’s personality, their way of speaking, or just something special about them.” That’s when she shared a personal story that had the entire audience in stitches.

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Her First Encounter with Usman Peerzada

Talking about her first meeting with her husband, Usman Peerzada, Samina didn’t hold back. “When I first saw him,” she shared, “he was acting in a play called Dosra Aadmi. I was very young back then. I looked at him and said, ‘You’re playing a double role, aren’t you? But it doesn’t seem like you even know your other role!”

The crowd burst into laughter. With a sparkle in her eyes, she added, “That was literally our first meeting, and I criticised him right away. Imagine that!” Her candid humour and honesty made the moment unforgettable.

But that wasn’t the end. She continued, “Later, he turned around, looked at me properly, and somehow got interested. In our very first proper meeting, he brought flowers for me and carefully placed them along the path we were walking.”

The gesture impressed her. “That’s when I got attracted to him,” she admitted, “and in the second meeting, I proposed to him myself. I said, ‘If you’re interested, let’s just get married.’”

From Criticism to Commitment

This charming story not only highlights the playful beginning of their relationship but also illustrates how true love can blossom from the most unexpected moments. What made the interview so captivating was her fearless critique of her husband during their first meeting. Little did she know he would eventually become her life partner.

Their connection wasn’t crafted from a perfect fairy tale but rather from genuine, heartfelt conversations. It reminds us that love doesn’t always kick off with flowers and sweet nothings. Sometimes, it starts with a bit of sarcasm, a lot of laughter, and a surprising dose of honesty.

Today, Samina and Usman Peerzada stand out as one of the most admired couples in the Pakistani entertainment scene. Recently, Usman was seen supporting Samina during her latest film, Deemak’s premiere, highlighting that a good partner will also be there for you when you need them.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Cbd Punjab Continues Winning Streak With Another Record-Breaking Auction

The latest auction resulted in a significant investment of 2.288 billion, strengthening CBD Punjab’s position as a driver of economic growth

Lahore: Wednesday June 19, 2025. Building on the resounding success of its previous auctions, the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), has once again demonstrated its commitment to transformative urban development by concluding another highly successful auction of premium residential plots in CBD NSIT City.

Held under the banner of NSIT Residencia, an exclusive residential enclave within Pakistan’s first and largest IT city, the auction showcased four residential plots, each approximately 4.5 kanals in size. The event witnessed overwhelming participation from both local and international investors, reflecting growing market confidence in CBD Punjab’s strategic development vision.

The latest auction resulted in a significant investment of 2.288 billion, strengthening CBD Punjab’s position as a driver of economic growth and sustainable urbanization in the province. A total of 186 bids were submitted during the auction, underlining the rising demand for high-value residential properties within this state-of-the-art development.

Each plot offered during the auction received considerable attention. Plot R-02-05 was successfully sold to Zameen Developments for 464.38 million, achieving a highest bid of 107 million per kanal. Plot R-02-06 was awarded to Umar Safdar at a price of 614.44 million, while Plot R-02-07 was secured by Zameen Developments for 619 million. Plot R-02-08, the final parcel in this auction cycle, was acquired by Muhammad Anwar Mian Noor for 601.005 million, with the highest bid recorded at 154.5 million per kanal.

Speaking on the occasion, CEO CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, said, “This auction reaffirms the confidence investors have in CBD Punjab’s vision. The overwhelming interest from both domestic and international stakeholders reflects our commitment to sustainable, high-impact development that transforms urban Punjab into an engine of economic growth.”

NSIT Residencia is rapidly emerging as a landmark residential destination, offering a secure, modern, and well-planned lifestyle within CBD NSIT City. Strategically located, with proximity to top-tier educational institutions, commercial hubs, and recreational spaces, the project continues to attract forward-looking investors seeking long-term value.

CBD Punjab remains steadfast in its mission to redefine urban living standards while creating new economic opportunities across the province. Through consistent delivery, transparent governance, and a development-first approach, the authority is playing a critical role in transforming the economic and urban landscape of Punjab, ushering in a new era of growth, connectivity, and prosperity.

Congo Virus Might Have Started Spreading in Sindh

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Sindh has reported its first Congo Virus death in 2025. On June 17, a 42-year-old man from District Malir, Karachi, died only a day after entering Indus Hospital in Korangi. Before his admission, he had tested positive for the disease.

An official with the provincial health department said the patient had no recent travel history. This raised anxiety about local viral transmission. The Congo Virus mostly spreads by tick bites or direct exposure to the blood and tissues of infected animals.

During and after the killing of animals, the danger is greatest; it rises around Eid al-Adha. The National Institute of Health (NIH) had issued a public advisory in April, encouraging people to take preventative measures before Eid’s arrival.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Congo virus has a case fatality rate ranging from 10 to 40%. WHO also confirms there is no vaccine available for it yet. Early detection and prevention get therefore even more vital as a result.

The health department has withheld further information about any other possible cases. Still, the sudden death without travel connections suggests local virus circulation. This underlines the need of awareness and monitoring.

Hospitals and local authorities are predicted to step up monitoring in areas of high risk. Movement of sacrificial animals could spread the disease more if safety procedures are neglected. Proper hygiene is required of those interacting with cattle.

Experts caution of a likely increase in Congo virus cases after Eid. Authorities will probably improve public communication and disease monitoring. Any flu-like symptoms in livestock handlers must be reported immediately.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Trump ‘Honoured’ to Host Field Marshal Munir; Talks Included Iran

trump-honoured-to-host-field-marshal-munir-talks-included-iran

Trump invited Pakistan’s army commander, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, to the White House for the first time without any civilian leadership and said he felt “honoured” to meet him.

The Cabinet Room was the setting for the closed-door session. This follows an Indian team’s meeting with US Vice President JD Vance, which Indian media applauded as a diplomatic triumph. Islamabad is now describing Munir’s invitation as a counter-success.

Speaking to the media, Trump said, “I was honoured to meet him (Field Marshal Munir) today.” When asked about the Iran-Israel conflict, Trump said, “They (Pakistan) know Iran very well, better than most… He (Munir) agreed with me.” 

Calling both “very smart people,” he expressed gratitude to PM Modi and Munir “for not going into the war [with India].” He added that both dodged a possible nuclear catastrophe.

“This guy was exceedingly powerful in preventing it (India-Pakistan battle) from the Pakistan side,” Trump added. Former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari lauded the session, claiming it was “a positive step in Pakistan-US relations.” He added, “India has resisted attempts toward peace… Pakistan recognises peace is in both countries’ interest.”

“India’s weaponising of water, persecution in Kashmir, and politicisation of terrorism are untenable,” he added.

Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert, said the conference addressed minerals, bitcoin, counterterrorism, and Kashmir in addition to Iran-Israel. With a rare five-star rating, Munir remarked India has to act as a “civilised country.” Describing them as a “pretext for aggression,” he dismissed Indian accusations about Pakistan’s role in the Pahalgam attack.

Munir said at a Washington community event, “We would rather welcome martyrdom than endure this shame.” Despite PTI demonstrations outside, the event received extensive backing. Munir supported US initiatives to halt the fighting and showed support for Iran’s battle with Israel. He stated, “We want this war to cease at once.”

Pakistani and the United States also tightened their counterterrorism collaboration. US Centcom head Gen. Kurilla lauded Pakistan, labelling it a “phenomenal ally.” Following Munir’s phone call, Pakistan had caught ISK leader Mohammad Sharifullah and extradited him. Kurilla verified that Pakistan’s operatives destroyed safe havens and killed tens of ISK militants.

Kurilla said Pakistan still plays a crucial role in regional security even after 1,000 terrorist attacks and more than 3,000 fatalities in a year. Munir referred to Pakistanis living overseas as a “brain gain” during the diaspora gathering. Though he steered clear of politics, he reminded the audience that “democratic societies must protect the right to dissent.”

Joint promises to create a better Pakistan concluded the visit.

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Syngenta Launches New Generation Insecticide, A Promising Game-Changer For Pakistan’s Rice Farmers

The product's advanced formulation shifts away from traditional granular methods, embracing a foliar application

Daska, Punjab – 18th June 2025: Syngenta Pakistan has officially launched Incipio 200 SC, a next-generation foliar spray insecticide powered by cutting-edge Plinazolin® technology, at a high-profile event in Daska. Themed “Incipio Barhaye Pakistan Ka Khazana”, the event brought together agricultural leaders, media, and local rice growers to mark the arrival of a globally recognized crop protection solution in Pakistan.

Proven effective across rice-growing regions worldwide, Incipio 200 SC offers targeted control against Rice Stem Borer and Leaf Folder—two of the most damaging pests in rice cultivation. The product’s advanced formulation shifts away from traditional granular methods, embracing a foliar application approach that enhances precision, performance, and environmental responsibility.

As rice remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s agricultural exports and rural livelihoods, the introduction of Incipio 200 SC supports Syngenta’s mission to boost crop productivity, minimize losses, and empower farmers with reliable, science-backed solutions.

“With Incipio 200 SC, we’re not just offering a product — we’re delivering global innovation tailored for local success,” said Zeeshan Hasib Baig, Country Head, Syngenta Pakistan. Speakers also included the company’s Head of Marketing and Product Manager, who highlighted extensive R&D behind the product and shared farmer trial feedback indicating improved yields and ease of use.

The event featured media interaction, live testimonials, and a branded unveiling moment, reinforcing the campaign message and commitment to sustainable agriculture.

For ongoing updates and stories from the field, follow the conversation using #IncipioPakistan, #BarhayeKhazana, #SyngentaPakistan, and #RiceFarmingRevolution.

JS Bank Celebrates International Remittance Day with Customers in Saleh Khana, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The Bank’s Regional Head and General Manager – Remittances met with local customers to recognize their vital role.

Saleh Khana – KPK, June 18, 2025 — JS Bank commemorated International Remittance Day with a customer engagement event in Saleh Khana, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — a village known for its strong overseas community that contributes significantly to Pakistan’s remittance inflows.

The Bank’s Regional Head and General Manager – Remittances met with local customers to recognize their vital role in supporting families and driving economic resilience through formal banking channels.

The event served as a platform to strengthen connections, appreciate customer loyalty, and reaffirm JS Bank’s commitment to providing fast, secure, and accessible remittance services across Pakistan.

Standard Chartered Pakistan Launches ‘Score Your Goals’ Campaign Offering Clients A Chance To Experience Liverpool FC Live At Anfield

Saadya Riaz, Head Wealth & Retail Banking, SC Pakistan stated, “This campaign is a celebration of our global partnership

Karachi, 18 June 2025: Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan has launched an exciting new campaign titled, “Score Your Goals,” offering clients a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch Liverpool FC live at Anfield through a unique investment led reward programme.

Running until 31st August 2025, the campaign invites clients to invest in selected wealth and insurance solutions including mutual funds and government securities across both conventional and Shariah-compliant options. In return, clients can earn entries into a grand prize draw where five lucky winners will enjoy the full Liverpool FC experience -including return airfare, hotel accommodation, and matchday access at the iconic Anfield Stadium.

The campaign also offers guaranteed Liverpool FC merchandise such as official jerseys and scarves based on the investment amount.

Saadya Riaz, Head Wealth & Retail Banking, SC Pakistan stated, “This campaign is a celebration of our global partnership with Liverpool FC and reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering unique and rewarding experiences for our clients. By aligning financial planning with a passion for sport we are bringing something truly special to our clients in Pakistan.”

The campaign is open to clients who invest a minimum of Rs.10 million in qualifying wealth solution products. The number of prize draw entries and guaranteed gifts increase with the investment value creating a tiered incentive structure that rewards deeper client engagement.

For more information on eligibility and terms & conditions, clients should speak to their relationship managers or visit www.sc.com/pk/promotions/lfc.

Zong Wins ‘Best Digital Campaign (TikTok)’ at Pakistan Digital Awards 2025 for My Zong App Campaign

Pakistan’s most credible platforms for digital excellence, the Pakistan Digital Awards are judged by an independent panel of industry.

Islamabad, Pakistan – June 17, 2025 – Zong, Pakistan’s leading digital technology innovation company, has been honored with the Best Digital Campaign (TikTok) award at the Pakistan Digital Awards 2025.

Recognized as one of Pakistan’s most credible platforms for digital excellence, the Pakistan Digital Awards are judged by an independent panel of industry leaders, and celebrates the innovation that delivers both creative resonance and tangible positive outcomes. More than just an accolade, this award reinforces the brand’s strategic direction and strengthens the market positioning of Zong as a frontrunner in Pakistan’s digital ecosystem. It reflects how the company is delivering on its brand promise of “Let’s Get Digital”, not just in words, but through measurable impact and effective use of platforms that matter to today’s audiences.

At the heart of the campaign was the notion of bringing convenience closer to users; seamlessly, intuitively, and at scale. By harnessing the immersive potential of TikTok’s short-form content and pairing it with Google UAC’s algorithmic targeting, Zong positioned My Zong App as more than just a utility, it became a daily digital companion for millions.

The campaign’s success was further amplified on the global stage when it was spotlighted in an official TikTok case study, a testament to its exceptional execution and measurable business impact.

Sajid Munir, Head of Marketing at Zong, shared his thoughts on the win: “We are grateful to the Pakistan Digital Awards for this recognition. This award is a meaningful milestone that reflects not only on our belief in bold storytelling, but also on our efforts towards user-first thinking, and smart, locally grounded innovation. Our team’s passion for reimagining digital experiences continues to shape how millions engage with technology every day.”

This recognition reaffirms Zong’s ongoing journey to transform Pakistan’s digital landscape, where intelligent solutions, high-impact campaigns, and inclusive access go hand in hand. With every milestone, Zong remains committed to crafting experiences that are not only efficient, but also empowering, intuitive, and uniquely relevant to the evolving needs of the Pakistani user.

Godfather of AI, Geoffrey Hinton, Believes AI will Not Replace This One Sector

godfather-of-ai-geoffrey-hinton-believes-ai-will-not-replace-this-one-sector

Geoffrey Hinton, the “Godfather of AI,” thinks that jobs will disappear due to the rise of artificial intelligence. The sole exception? Healthcare. But only very skilled workers will survive there as well.

During a recent interview on the Diary of a CEO podcast, Hinton was unequivocal: AI will destroy repetitive, routine work. Receptionists, customer service representatives, and most entry-level white-collar jobs might not make it through the decade.

godfather-of-ai-geoffrey-hinton-believes-ai-will-not-replace-this-one-sector
Geoffrey Hinton thinks most entry level white-collar jobs will disappear due to AI.

Healthcare’s Special Resistance to AI Domination

Hinton disagrees that healthcare is no different. “There’s almost no limit to how much healthcare people can absorb,” he said. “If you could make doctors five times more efficient, we could all get more care for the same cost.”

In contrast to nearly every other industry, the demand for healthcare never recedes. People will always require more treatment, more attention, and more reassurance—particularly when it’s human.

That human touch, Hinton explains, is what will cause healthcare’s resistant to AI. You may not want a robot nurse setting your IV or soothing your pre-surgery jitters. That’s a job for a human.

Only the Skilled Will Survive

Still, Hinton warns that even healthcare won’t be a safe haven for everyone. Only the most skilled professionals will keep their jobs. AI will handle the rest. “You’d have to be very skilled to have a job that it couldn’t just do,” he stressed.

This is in line with other experts’ forecasts. Demis Hassabis of DeepMind similarly stated AI will increase healthcare productivity, but human beings will still be at the forefront. Doctors can use computers to diagnose diseases, but robots won’t replace bedside manner.

The Bigger Picture: A Shrinking Workforce

Though some technology executives believe AI will augment human work, Hinton is not among them. He thinks that this wave of automation will not be like previous revolutions that created new jobs. Rather, he envisions a world in which fewer individuals are working and more of the thinking is done by AI.

McKinsey agrees. A report released in 2024 cautioned that 30% of US jobs may vanish by 2030. Goldman Sachs estimated as much as 50% automation by 2045.

Final Word: Get Skilled or Get Replaced

Hinton’s takeaway is unequivocal: AI will not replace all jobs, but it will replace most. To ride out the storm, acquire profound expertise. And if you’re in healthcare, remain human. That may be your greatest strength.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates

Behroopia Took Faysal Quraishi Into the Darkest Corners of Mental Health

Faysal Quraishi opened up about his journey of portraying eight unique personalities in the drama Behroopia. What started as a tough acting challenge evolved into a profound exploration of the intricate world of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), a condition that remains largely misunderstood in many regions of the world, particularly in Pakistan.

Faysal revealed that during the project, he became acutely aware of how misinformed society is regarding mental health. Many people mistakenly link such disorders to supernatural forces like jinns rather than seeking proper psychiatric assistance.

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“When we were filming Behroopia, we kept saying that these individuals won’t just come to you,” Faysal remarked. “They have their own lives too. There’s a significant lack of awareness and education surrounding this issue.”

He stressed that the depiction was far from fictional. It reflected the quiet struggles of real individuals grappling with their inner turmoil.

Breaking Stereotypes Around Mental Health in Entertainment

Mental health has often been a sensitive subject in Pakistani media. Yet, Behroopia stands out as a bold initiative that tackles Multiple Personality Disorder head-on, bringing attention to its real-life consequences.

During the podcast, Faysal shared a startling encounter. He met someone who described a person with 90 distinct personalities. To his astonishment, he later found a documented case of a woman who had 1,029 personalities.

These discoveries left him reeling.

“I used to think eight was a lot. But there are people out there living with hundreds of fragmented identities,” he admitted.

Instead of seeking help from therapists, many in Pakistan tend to view these conditions as possession or spiritual matters. This perspective has inflicted immense trauma on those affected, driving them into isolation instead of encouraging them to seek treatment.

Behroopia set out to confront these harmful misconceptions. It became more than just a drama; it served as a reflection of societal ignorance.

Faysal Quraishi Calls for Education and Compassion in Mental Health Treatment

In a heartfelt message, Faysal called on both the public and the media to change how they view certain individuals.

“These aren’t cursed people. They’re human beings who are experiencing real pain. What they need is care, not confinement.”

His words struck a chord, especially for those caught in a cycle of spiritual mislabeling and unresolved trauma.

He fervently advocates for greater mental health awareness across the business, education, and media sectors. He particularly challenged the entertainment industry to take responsibility for how it portrays these issues, emphasising that fiction has the potential to educate millions.

Additionally, Faysal highlighted the need to recognise early signs of mental health struggles and to create safe spaces for those affected. “Let’s stop calling them crazy or possessed. They need therapy, not superstition,” he insisted.

Faysal’s message resonates with many, highlighting that mental health is real, it’s valid, and it can be treated. It’s high time for Pakistan to stop turning a blind eye and start paying attention.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Karachi Boils, Yet the City’s Scorching Heat Isn’t Shared Equally

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Karachi’s scorching heat is breaking records. Yet, inside the elite neighbourhood of the city, people are complaining that their air-conditioned rooms are too cold. The irony: One city, one sun, yet two contradictory realities.

Last summer, the temperature soared beyond 49 °C, with humidity reaching a “feels‑like” 55 °C by late June, claiming over 568 lives across Sindh (427 in Karachi alone) and hospitalising thousands more.

Yet amid these numbers lies a quieter, deeper tragedy: The heat crisis affects the privileged and the poor in vastly different ways. Some are forced to live through the concoction of dust and exhaust that thickens the air around them, while the others fight over A/C remotes because they are “freezing.”

A Tale of Two Karachis

Downtown, the elites retreat into air-conditioned apartments or malls, waiting out the heat in cool luxury. But in Perfume Chowk’s cramped streets or Lyari’s concrete canyons, there is neither shade nor sustenance, and, in fact, it only welcomes more heatwave-caused skin conditions.

The poor described their homes as “an active blast furnace,” where oppressive heat is intensified by indoor coal stoves and lack of electricity. In Lyari, green cover is barely 1.5 %, compared to a city average of 5 %, hence making it one of Karachi’s hottest pockets.

Inadequate public services like rolling blackouts, failing utilities, intermittent water supply only compounds to the misery. Many homes actually bake hotter than the outside air.

Women, children, the elderly, daily wage labourers and expectant mothers are most vulnerable. Pregnant women, in particular, face steep risks: public hospitals have no designated interventions in place, despite fulminating demand.

The Urban Heat Island effect is not an abstract phenomenon here as it’s lived daily. Karachi’s concrete sprawl has trapped heat; its green spaces are vanishing.

Since 1960, night-time temperatures have risen by about 2.4 °C and daytime highs by 1.6 °C. Trees and parks, which could offer relief, are being wiped out (sometimes deliberately for development) at the expense of public health .

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Residents sleep on the pavement in Karachi to escape the heat and frequent power outages.

Climate Injustice in Focus

Heat in Karachi is never distributed evenly. Those who contribute least to global emissions bear the most severe burden. This is climate injustice; living proof that the poor pay for the luxuries of the wealthy.

The urban poor, packed into informal settlements, lack ventilation, cooling, shade and water. They cannot “stay indoors” because indoors is its own furnace.

The worst part? The state’s response remains painfully inadequate. Cooling centres are set up, but only sporadically and without sustained reach. Policies like heat wave management plans and reflective-roof campaigns only exist on paper.

On the ground, bureaucracy, inaction and mismanagement continue to prevail. Meanwhile, hospitals get overwhelmed, morgues reach full capacity, and the official death toll underreports the suffering due to incorrect and informal classification of data.

 

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One City, Different Heat: What Needs to Change

Solutions like cooling centres, shaded parks, reflective building materials, and tree-lined streets (none of this is optional) are already well known; all that is left is implementation.

Emergency services must coordinate: a heat‑wave alert system with public education and robust inter-agency leadership, backed by community mobilisation. Every underserved neighbourhood should get electricity priority, water supply, free fans and an early warning of impending heat spikes.

In the long term, Karachi must reclaim its canopy with shade‑giving trees like neem or sheesham. We must also protect parks from encroachment and ensure every new high-rise includes green spaces.

Urban planners should embed heat resilience into building codes and public transit by making a shift from concrete and cars to community‑centred, green design. And yes, let the wealthy pay their share, not just as taxes for climate infrastructure, but in moral accountability too.

A Moral Reckoning

If Karachi has boiled before, it should not do so again. Heat-induced death should not be accepted as “normal.” Each year of inaction reveals a city that chooses indifference over equity and convenience over community.

Karachi’s scorching inequity is our litmus test. Do we endure suffering in silence? Or do we demand that every resident (regardless of postcode) deserves shade, water and the dignity of life?

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Trump Seeks Real End, Not Ceasefire for Iran-Israel War: What Does that Mean?

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President Donald Trump sounded out his position on Air Force One: He does not desire a ceasefire; rather, he seeks a “real end” to the Iran-Israel war. As hostilities entered their sixth consecutive day, Trump moved away from any attempt to halt violence.

“I’m not looking for a ceasefire,” he told reporters. “We’re looking at better than a ceasefire.” His words signal a hardline shift as tensions in the Middle East spiral. He emphasised again: “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.”

trump-seeks-real-end-not-ceasefire-for-iran-israel-war-what-does-that-mean
Trump Emphasises that Iran cannot have a Nuclear Weapon

Social Media Post Rejects Peace Deal Claims

Previously, on Truth Social, Trump rejected claims that he had departed the G7 summit in Canada to conduct peace talks. “I have not contacted Iran for ‘Peace Talks’ in any fashion, shape, or form,” he wrote. “If they wish to discuss, they know how to contact me.”

Trump also criticised Iran for turning down an earlier offer. “They should have taken the deal that was on the table – Would have saved a lot of lives!!!”

Cancelled Talks and Increased Firepower

A sixth round of nuclear U.S.-Iran talks had been planned for Sunday in Oman. Iran called it off following Israel’s surprise aerial campaign on Friday. Tehran blamed Washington for facilitating the attacks.

“The other side conducted themselves in such a way that dialogue becomes meaningless,” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei explained. “You cannot claim to negotiate and let the Zionist regime attack Iran’s territory.”

Trump Shifts from Caution to Praise

Weeks prior to the airstrikes, Trump publicly questioned an Israeli assault. He favoured diplomacy, but once Israel went ahead with its attack, his language shifted. He now refers to the shelling as “excellent.” He also speculates that it might be used as leverage in future talks.

trump-seeks-real-end-not-ceasefire-for-iran-israel-war-what-does-that-mean
Trump changes stance on Iran-Israel war.

Total Control, or Total Chaos

Trump last week asserted that the U.S. has “complete control” of the skies over Iran. Iran disagrees and continues retaliatory bombing. The Middle East is on edge. Experts caution that the conflict could escalate into a bigger regional war.

Even as danger increases, Trump seems intent on gaining complete dominance rather than a temporary peace. The White House isn’t seeking talks now, it’s seeking outcomes. In Trump’s words, that entails terminating the war on America’s terms.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates

The Trendsetter of Cab Hailing, Careem, Has Quit

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As announced by the co-founder and CEO, Mudassir Sheikha, Careem will discontinue its cab-hailing service in Pakistan on July 18, and will stop functioning from September 18. A trendsetter in the competitive taxi market, Sheikha and his team revolutionised the ride-hailing business.

Launched in 2015, Careeem thrived for nearly a decade, creating countless jobs for registered drivers and providing safe rides for women in a conservative society.

While the cab-hailing services may be sunsetting, Sheikha claimed that Careem will take a different direction in Pakistan with the Everything App set to expand its footprint.

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Careem is quitting its cab-hailing services.

Intense Competition Drove Careem Rides Out of Business

In his announcement on LinkedIn, Sheikha also acknowledged the many reasons for shutting down Careem’s cab-hailing services. He cited intensifying competition in the taxi market as one of the causes.

The ride-hailing industry in Pakistan experienced a boom in the last few years, leading to saturation and intense competition. Careem has strong competitors like inDrive and Yango, which reduced its stronghold on the market.

inDrive operates on a bidding system, allowing users to find the cheapest and most affordable rides. Careem introduced the Flexi Ride Model to compete with this bidding system, but inDrive had already attracted many with its low fares.

Yango also offered discounted fares for its consumers, along with performance-based incentives for its drivers. During times of soaring inflation rates, cheap rides were the need of the hour, and Careem’s competitors excelled in this domain.

However, Sheikha also acknowledged that Pakistan’s challenging macroeconomic landscape and global fund allocation made Careem’s cab-hailing operations less profitable and feasible.

Drivers Preferred Careem Over Other Competitors

The bid-based model was attractive to customers, but riders felt it was a trap. Careem paid its captains better, but fewer users compelled drivers to switch to inDrive and Yango, which had more customers.

As some regular customers can relate, Careem had waiting charges, which were a justified benefit for drivers who had to patiently wait for customers. However, from a customer point of view, this was a disadvantage. This also caused them to leaned toward other altreatives.

While Careem is finding new ways of serving Pakistan, its contribution to the cab-hailing industry cannot be understated.

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Iran’s Fordo Nuclear Site Isn’t an Easy Target, Here’s Why

irans-fordo-nuclear-site-isnt-an-easy-target-heres-why

Israel attacked the Natanz nuclear plant in Iran last week, but it hasn’t targeted Fordo, the nation’s most secretive and heavily defended enrichment site. So many wonder, why?

A Longstanding Source of Concern

Fordo is hidden deep inside a mountain south of Tehran. It is more than a nuclear site. For years, experts have cautioned that Fordo is Iran’s backup option, a facility planned to withstand attacks like the one against Natanz.

The site is almost impossible to blow up with conventional ordnance. The overlying mountain serves as a shield, and any frontal attack would need bunker-buster bombs, or something even more powerful.

irans-fordo-nuclear-site-isnt-an-east-target-heres-why
Iran’s Fordo Nuclear Site

U.S. and Israeli Intelligence Clash

But that’s not the sole reason Fordo has yet to be touched.

Israeli authorities think Fordo is the key to Iran’s nuclear aspirations. Brigadier General Effie Defrin said recently that Iran is hiding a weapons programme within facilities such as Fordo.

Israel asserts that its intelligence confirms that top Iranian scientists are carrying out experiments in weapons-grade enrichment. Iran disputes this. It maintains that its nuclear programme is purely for civilian purposes. But confidence is scarce.

American intelligence, up to March, didn’t think Iran was actively producing a bomb, but President Trump rejected that opinion. Trump indicated that he thinks Iran is “very close” to acquiring nuclear capabilities.

The situation is tense. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) declared Iran non-compliant with inspections for the first time in 20 years, just hours before Israel’s attack on Natanz. That only increased fears about what might be happening at Fordo.

Advanced Centrifuges Raise the Stakes

Weapons analyst Manuel Herrera has always been the most suspicious of the Fordo facility. It’s subterranean. It’s got tunnel complexes. And Iran has, in recent years, put in high-powered IR-6 centrifuges there—equipment capable of enriching uranium more rapidly and to a higher level.

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Iran’s Fordo Nuclear Site

The IAEA in 2023 confirmed that 84% enriched uranium had been found at Fordo. Weapons-grade is 90%. That’s perilously close.

So why hasn’t Israel struck Fordo yet? Probably because it can’t—at least not straightforwardly. The risk of escalation is also enormous. A direct strike could push the region further into conflict.

But as tensions rise and transparency diminishes, experts warn that the clock is ticking.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates

Has Israel Really Wiped Out 40% of Iran’s Missiles?

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Iran’s retaliatory attacks against Israel have significantly reduced over the last two days, according to experts.

This comes after Israel carried out a series of airstrikes targeting Iran’s missile silos and launching sites.

After firing more than 200 rockets in six waves on Friday and Saturday, Iran only managed two smaller waves the following day. Each wave consists of around three dozen missiles, said the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a US-based think tank.

On Monday, about 40 more missiles were fired, with the number dropping by half on Tuesday.

The Israeli military said it has successfully weakened Iran’s ability to launch further attacks. Furthermore, they are showing video footage of damaged Iranian missile sites since airstrikes began Friday.

According to ISW, Tehran had initially planned to launch 1,000 ballistic missiles in response to Israel’s preemptive strike on Friday.

However, that plan did not go through because Israel damaged many of the launchers and silos Iran needed.

ISW stated, “Iran has used significantly fewer munitions in its response to Israel than originally planned because the IDF destroyed and damaged missile launchers and silos that Iran planned to use to retaliate against Israel.”

Before the current conflict, US and Israeli officials believed Iran had about 2,000 missiles, though not all had the range to hit Israel.

That number is believed to have dropped significantly after Israel’s repeated strikes.

IDF Continues to Strike Iranian Missile Facilities

A drone video shared by Reuters showed damage to residential buildings in Tel Aviv caused by earlier Iranian attacks.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) estimated that about 40% of Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities have been destroyed since Friday.

The Israel Air Force also reported that over 70 Iranian air defence missile batteries have been taken out. The attack reportedly weakened Iran’s defence of its military infrastructure.

The Israeli military has stated it will continue to “hunt down” Iran’s missile silos and launchers. Videos of these successful operations are being regularly shared on IDF’s official social media platforms.

With Iran’s attacks now being smaller in scale, Israel’s Home Front Command has stopped issuing pre-launch alerts, giving citizens more time to seek shelter during any future missile strikes.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Trump Says Iran’s Supreme Leader is an Easy Target

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US President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance posted on social media Tuesday, hinting at possible US involvement in the Israel‑Iran conflict.

Trump even implied violence against Iran’s leadership.

Vance praised Trump’s handling of the situation and blamed Iran for continuing its uranium enrichment.

He wrote, “The president has made clear that Iran cannot have uranium enrichment. And he said repeatedly that this would happen one of two ways – the easy way or the ‘other’ way.”

He added, “He may decide he needs to take further action to end Iranian enrichment. That decision ultimately belongs to the president.”

Less than an hour later, Trump, on Truth Social, escalated the rhetoric, apparently targeting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

“We know exactly where the so‑called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding,” he wrote.

“He is an easy target, but is safe there. We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.”

These messages arrive amid ongoing missile exchanges between Iran and Israel, raising concerns of broader American involvement and a possible regional war.

Despite mounting speculation, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement calling Israel’s strikes “unilateral” and clarified that “the US was not involved in the strikes against Iran.”

Meanwhile, the US has repositioned warships and aircraft in the region to “protect US forces,” according to Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Trump stated en route home from the G7 summit in Canada: “They should have done the deal. I told them: ‘Do the deal.’ So I don’t know. I’m not too much in the mood to negotiate.”

Abandoned nuclear talks and America’s new show of force intensify fear of US involvement. Critics warn Trump’s threats could drag the US deeper into conflict.

Representative Thomas Massie (R‑KY) and Representative Ro Khanna (D‑CA) introduced the Iran War Powers Resolution, requiring presidential approval before military action.

Senator Tim Kaine unveiled a similar measure to stop US hostilities towards Iran.

However, Trump stressed Iran’s nuclear red line, claiming he “has never wavered.”

Internal debate arose when DNI Tulsi Gabbard stated Iran was not building a weapon and Khamenei had not authorised it. Trump dismissed this, saying, “I don’t care what she said. I think they’re very close to having it.”

This clash between Trump’s rhetoric and the intelligence community’s findings raises questions.

“It’s just reprehensible and incredibly reckless that Trump is not even relying on guidance from his own intelligence,” commented Yasmine Taeb, legislative director at MPower Change Action Fund.

Jamal Abdi of the National Iranian American Council added, “If he’s not listening to his own intelligence community, who is he listening to? Is it Netanyahu?”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Tom Cruise to Receive Honorary Oscar Award

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Hollywood action star Tom Cruise will receive an honorary Oscar at the upcoming annual Governors Awards hosted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The event will take place on November 16 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Ovation Hollywood.

Actor Debbie Allen and production designer Wynn Thomas will also be honoured with Honorary Oscars, while music legend Dolly Parton will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

Academy President Janet Yang said, “Tom Cruise’s incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunt community has inspired us all.”

Tom Cruise remains one of the most successful actors in Hollywood history. He played a major role in reviving the box office during the COVID-19 pandemic with Top Gun: Maverick.

Throughout his career, Tom Cruise has received Oscar nominations for Born on the Fourth of July, Jerry Maguire, and Magnolia.

His other notable films include the Mission: Impossible franchise, Interview With the Vampire, Eyes Wide Shut, Vanilla Sky, Risky Business, and A Few Good Men.

The Academy presents Honorary Oscars to recognise lifetime achievement and exceptional contributions to the motion picture arts and sciences or outstanding service to the Academy.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Who was Ali Shadmani? Iran’s Wartime Chief of Staff Reportedly Eliminated by Israel

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Amid the ongoing Iran-Israel war, unfortunate news of casualties has been reported constantly. One of these was the assassination of the newly appointed Chief of Staff (COS) of Iran, Ali Shadmani.

The major general was appointed only four days ago after his predecessor, Commander-in-Chief Alaa Ali Rashid, who was also assassinated by Israel on June 13 during the start of Operation Rising Lion.

IDF wrote on X, “Ali Shadmani, Iran’s senior-most military official and Khamenei’s closest military advisor, was killed in an IAF strike in central Tehran, following precise intelligence.”

Iran’s Chief of Staff Assassinated By Israel

In a statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it had killed Major General Shadmani in the heart of Tehran.

He was appointed by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as Major General on June 13, following the death of Major General Gholam Ali Rashid in a previous Israeli attack. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei announced on his English-language X account that Shadmani would be taking Rashid’s place.

“In view of Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid’s martyrdom at the hands of the vile Zionist regime, and in light of Major General Ali Shadmani’s meritorious service and valuable experience, I confer the rank of Major Gen. & appoint him Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya (pbuh) Central HQ,” Khamenei wrote in a post on X.

Seems like this didn’t last long and Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have stated that they had  killed Major General Shadmani in the heart of Tehran on June 17 2025. Despite Iran not issuing its own confirmation, multiple outlets reported Shadmani’s death at Israel’s hands.

Whether or not Tehran confirms the circumstances surrounding Shadmani’s death, the mere speculation is enough to signal a dramatic shift. Why? Because he was a central node in the military. Removing him is akin to cutting the head off a tactical network that spans across several conflict zones, especially during the Middle East shadow war.

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IDF post about Ali Shadmani

Who was Ali Shadmani? Iran’s Wartime Chief of Staff

Ali Shadmani held one of the most critical positions in Iran’s military infrastructure. These include the position of Deputy Commander of the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) and the Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces during wartime.

It placed him at the helm of Iran’s wartime planning, strategy, and coordination across multiple fronts; from Tehran to proxy forces in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen.

While never as publicly visible as figures like Qassem Soleimani (the former Quds Force commander killed by a U.S. drone strike in 2020), Shadmani operated with strategic influence and authority.

In Iran’s military structure, he was the man trusted to execute critical decisions during times of high tension and war, especially when the country’s regional influence was at stake.

Even until the August of 2024, he made strong statements vowing “harsh revenge” over the assassination of Hamas’s Ismail Haniyeh and got sanctions imposed on his head by the European Union in October 2024.

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Ali Shadmani

How did Iran Become an Enemy of Israel?

To understand why someone like Ali Shadmani would be on Israel’s target list, you need to go back to the roots of Iran-Israel hostility.

Before the 1979 Iranian Revolution, Iran and Israel had diplomatic and even military ties. However, once the Islamic Republic was born after the Iranian revolution, everything changed.

No longer was the government a puppet to the Zionists, and Ayatollah Khomeini’s regime even denounced Israel as an “illegitimate Zionist state.” Israel couldn’t tolerate this, especially after Iran started supporting Hezbollah and Hamas.

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A drone photo shows the damage over residential homes at the impact site following missile attack from Iran on Israel, in Tel Aviv, Israel on June 16, 2025

This was further fueled, when Iran started it’s nuclear programme which the Israel couldn’t tolerate as this would threaten it’s nuclear supremacy in the region (no questions were asked on how Israel developed a Nuclear weapon in the first place). Since then both the nations have gone head to head with each other.

It’s a chilling reminder that in today’s geopolitical landscape, the real wars are often fought in the shadows, with far-reaching consequences.

As the world watches, the question now is what comes next? Whose throat is it this time? Hopefully not the supreme leader’s.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

This Season, Bridal Couture is Ditching Pastels for Rich Colours and Drama

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Gone are the days when Pakistani bridal couture was drowning in a sea of blush pinks and pastel hues. In 2025, it’s all about making a bold statement.

This season, brides are saying a soft “no, thank you” to pastels and leaning into richer tones that reflect tradition (about time). Oh, and Pakistani designers are leading this change.

Let’s talk shades and the bridal dresses redefining bridal couture in 2025.

Deep Maroon

There’s something eternally royal about maroon. But this year, it’s not the muted maroon of the past. It’s deeper, glossier and paired with intricate antique gold work in bridal couture.

Brands Championing this Shade:

  • HSY: His latest “Heirloom” collection features velvety maroon lehengas with heavy zardozi. The HSY Bridal Collection summons the pursuit of harmonious beauty to celebrate bridal femininity
  • Aisha Imran: The exquisite collection screams traditional maroon (dadi jaan approved).
  • Zainab Chottani: Think bridal regality, BUT with modern cuts. Maroon never looked this bold.
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Brands Championing Deep Maroon

Dreamy Shades of Blue 

Blue for brides? Yep, it’s happening. Blue with silver or rose-gold accents is the unexpected combo brides didn’t know they needed.

Designers Riding this Wave:

  • Sania Maskatiya: Her intricate threadwork over deep blue silks gives bridal couture a whole new vibe.
  • Ali Xeeshan: He plays with light and dark tones to create blue-based lehengas that dazzle.
  • Faiza Saqlain: Where elegance meets midnight drama.
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Brands Championing Blue

Burnt Orange & Rust 

Orange may have seemed too loud in the past, but now, with deeper undertones and textured embroidery, it’s becoming a favourite among bridal couture.

Designers Doing it Right:

  • Mohsin Naveed Ranjha (MNR): Again, a standout. His use of rust with emerald accents is creating buzz all over social media.
  • Nomi Ansari: With his love for colour, burnt orange becomes playful yet sophisticated.
  • Farah Tallib Aziz: You say range of rust orange, and I hear Farah Talib Aziz.
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Brands championing burnt orange and rust

Deep Plum & Aubergine 

These moody purples are having a real moment. Ideal for winter weddings and nikkah evenings, they offer an air of mystery with a royal twist.

Bridal Trendsetters:

  • Farah Talib Aziz: Usually pastel-heavy, FTA surprises with a deep plum collection paired with icy blues. Oh, and did I tell you, it’s affordable too.
  • Hussain Rehar: If drama is the bride’s middle name, Hussain Rehar’s aubergine pieces with structured cuts are the answer.
  • Zara Shahjahan: Her romantic aesthetic now includes deeper tones that work beautifully.
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Brands championing plum and aubergine

Black 

Saving the best for the last. Yes, brides are wearing black now (our mom’s worst nightmare).

More brides are embracing black lehengas for their receptions or even barat days. Paired with gold, this look is fierce.

Designers are Making Black Bridalwear Iconic:

  • Ali Xeeshan: Of course, he’s the flag-bearer.
  • Zara Shahjahan: You think her purple bridal couture was exquisite, well, you just haven’t seen how good she is doing with the black articles.
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Brands championing black

Brides Don’t Play it Safe Anymore!

This bridal season in Pakistan isn’t about playing safe anymore; it’s about embracing your inner powerhouse. Rich hues not only photograph beautifully, but they also carry heritage, emotion and personality.

One thing’s for sure: Pastels had their moment. 2025 belongs to the bold.

So, which colour are you loving this season? And which designer do you think nailed the rich-hued bridal couture?

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

WhatsApp is Evolving: Getting Ads, Subscriptions, and More

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Earlier this week, WhatsApp released updates that drew much controversy and discussion online. For years, the platform had upheld its promise of remaining ad-free, distinguishing it from other social media platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.

However, the Meta-owned platform has introduced new features for its Updates tab, which houses Channels and Statuses (equivalent to Instagram stories).

In a new update, WhatsApp will now begin rolling out ads in Status updates. Furthermore, channel subscriptions have been introduced to allow users to receive paid and exclusive content.

Targeted advertisements will help users discover new channels while also helping admins increase visibility.

Will Personal Chats Remain Ad-Free?

The good news is that personal chats will still remain ad-free. Advertisements will exclusively appear in the App’s Updates tab, which is used by an estimated 1.5 billion people daily.

In their official blog post, WhatsApp stated:

“These new features will appear only on the Updates tab, away from your personal chats. This means if you only use WhatsApp to chat with friends and loved ones, there is no change to your experience at all.”

Keeping advertisers away from users’ personal data promises more security and greater privacy. The platform has reassured its clients that limited information will be extracted to personalise advertisements.

Languages, countries, and prior channel subscriptions will be used to suggest ads. End-to-end encryption of personal chats means that private messages cannot be used to tailor advertisements.

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The chatting experience remains unchanged.

Are Users Switching to Signal?

Although the latest updates are unlikely to affect those who use WhatsApp solely for messaging and calls, Meta‘s decision to include ads has upset many users, who are now contemplating switching to Signal.

Signal offers many of the same services as WhatsApp, including end-to-end encryption, voice calls, and group chats. However, the free messaging platform has the additional benefit of no advertisements.

Many see this monetisation strategy as a betrayal, but others believe it was inevitable. Most of Meta’s revenue comes from ads, with 160.6 billion US dollars earned from advertisements alone in 2025.

Including ads inside WhatsApp is likely to increase their revenue, which is the ultimate goal of every privately owned corporation.

Although the ad-free experience has been tainted, many users are indifferent to the Updates tab, and thus are least bothered by the latest changes. Furthermore, user privacy is still uncompromised, maintaining WhatsApp’s reputation as a secure platform.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.