Home Blog Page 19

Meet Hiccup and Toothless Again in How to Train Your Dragon Live Action!

meet-hiccup-toothless-in-how-to-train-your-dragon-live-action

Hiccup and Toothless return, this time in meat and flames. Universal and DreamWorks’ live-action How to Train Your Dragon opened in theatres on Friday, June 13. Fans saw the heroic outcasts of Berk and the dragons they used to fear in a whole new way.

This re-telling stays true to the essence of the original tale. Hiccup, a lanky teenage Viking who has more wits than muscle, aspires to be a dragon-killing warrior like his dad, Stoick. All this changes, however, when he brings down a strange Night Fury.

Rather than finishing off the injured creature, Hiccup names him Toothless and shares a forbidden bond. They battle Viking tradition—and themselves.

meet-hiccup-toothless-again-in-how-to-train-your-dragon-live-action
Hiccup and Toothless in How to Train Your Dragon Live Action

The Cast Takes Flight

Mason Thames stars as Hiccup. With The Black Phone behind him, he has the subtlety of bravery and resourcefulness for the part. Nico Parker is Astrid, the fearless battle dragon rider who does not believe in Hiccup’s newfound dragon flying abilities—at least, not at first.

Toothless, the nightmarish star Night Fury, comes to life with galvanising CGI. He is quick, loyal, and more than a pet—he’s Hiccup’s equal.

Gerard Butler once again voices Stoick the Vast, the father of Hiccup and dragon-hunting chief of Berk. His voice and presence still bear the Viking legacy. Nick Frost voices Gobber, the one-handed blacksmith who teaches Hiccup combat and screw-ups.

Supporting actors also stand out. Gabriel Howell brings swagger to the loud-mouthed Snotlout. Julian Dennison adds warmth to Fishlegs, the dragon nerd and prince-in-training with a heart of gold.

And twin mayhem is brought by Harry Trevaldwyn and Bronwyn James as Tuffnut and Ruffnut, bickering and dragon-duelling with each other.

meet-hiccup-toothless-again-in-how-to-train-your-dragon-live-action
The cast takes flight

Fresh Take, Same Fire

The charm of this live-action adaptation is its combination of heart, humour, and aerial dragon action. It’s a tale of friendship, transformation, and rebooting outdated rules.

For both longtime and new fans, this adaptation guarantees action, laughter, and emotions. So, be prepared to go back to Berk—and suspend disbelief all over again about dragons.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates

Sahar Hashmi Calls Man Mast Malang “Yummy”

Rising star Sahar Hashmi recently shared her surprising journey into the highly anticipated drama Man Mast Malang. In a candid interview, she revealed that for over a year, she had been hearing rumours about potentially being cast alongside Danish Taimoor.

Before this, she had been offered a role in the ongoing drama Sher, but that opportunity didn’t pan out.

As a newcomer, Sahar explained how production houses often hesitate to take a chance. “When it’s a new face, people get nervous. They want to ensure a return on their investment.” Big productions like Man Mast Malang require bold decisions, and bringing in fresh talent can feel like a gamble.

Then, fate stepped in. While visiting the 7th Sky Entertainment office for a different project, she had an encounter with director Ali Faizan, who caught her off guard. “He told me, ‘Meri riyaarh tayyar hai’,” she chuckled. He was joking that the role was originally meant for someone else, but destiny had other plans.

What happened next was a twist that perfectly matched the essence of Man Mast Malang.

The Script that Made Her Say “Yummyyyy”

After their meeting, Faizan shot over the script to Sahar. How did she feel about it?

“I read it and thought… uhhh yummyyyyyy!” she exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. The story grabbed her right away with its rich flavours, twists, turns, and a fiery narrative. This wasn’t just another project; it was something spicy and full of bold surprises.

Watch here:

“I loved it because it was so different,” Sahar pointed out. “There was thrill, drama, excitement… everything.” She felt it wasn’t a typical love story. Instead, it brought complex emotions and a plot that stood out from the other dramas currently airing.

What clinched it for her? The chance to share the screen with Danish Taimoor. “That made it even more exciting,” she confessed. For someone just starting, teaming up with a well-known actor in a high-profile show is a huge step forward in her career.

Man Mast Malang: A Controversial Choice

It’s fair to say that the drama has gotten attention for all the wrong reasons. From love that is forced, blackmailed and story that has thrown consent out of the window, there is quite nothing like Man Mast Malang on screens right now.

While the actors might find the script “yummy,” one thing that is long forgotten is the impact they have on the wider audience. As cases like those of Sana Yousuf’s come out in the open, do dramas like Man Mast Malang hold no accountability?

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

James Webb Just Mapped the Universe, and it has 800,000 Galaxies!

james-webb-just-mapped-the-universe-and-it-has-800000-galaxies

The COSMOS-Web Project has achieved a significant scientific milestone. Led by scientists from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the Rochester Institute of Technology, the researchers used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to create the largest map of the universe.

Using JWST, they investigated the COSMOS field, a wide region of space, and captured the universe as it appeared 13.5 billion years ago. NASA claims that the universe is approximately 13.8 billion years old.

Hence, the project has mapped 98% of the cosmic timeline and revealed 800,000 galaxies. The findings have major implications for the field of astronomy and raise an intriguing set of questions.

The Findings are More than What We Expected 

Prior to investigations conducted using JWST, astronomers had made predictions based on data from the Hubble Space Telescope. Reliable measurements suggested that galaxies formed within the first 500 million years of the Big Bang would be rare.

The JWST surprised astronomers, revealing ten times more galaxies than predicted by earlier models at extremely distant locations. The telescope also spotted early, supermassive black holes that were invisible to the Hubble.

One of the co-leaders of the project, Barbara Casey, claimed:

“And the big surprise is that with JWST, we see roughly 10 times more galaxies than expected at these incredible distances. We’re also seeing supermassive black holes that are not even visible with Hubble.”

Furthermore, it also revealed a complex and structured cosmic universe 300-500 million years after the Big Bang, which previous models and simulations had failed to predict.

james-webb-just-mapped-the-universe-and-it-has-800000-galaxies
Cosmic space still captivates many.

The COSMIC-Web Survey has Raised Important Questions

While astronomy has never seen such a detailed map of the universe, there is still much to be explored, as the map has raised intriguing new questions.

The most important question relates to the early formation of massive galaxies post the Big Bang. Previous models had failed to catch this, which is why the investigators were surprised.

Referring to the unprecedented findings, Casey stated:

“Are these JWST datasets breaking the cosmological model? Because the universe was producing too much light too early, it had only about 400 million years to form something like a billion solar masses of stars. We just do not know how to make that happen.”

Despite the questions and ambiguity, a massive exploit of the project is its wide accessibility. The images are available online to the broader community, a major benefit for young astronomers and enthusiasts.

Naturally, the complex images require some technical knowledge, making them less useful for the common. Nonetheless, it is a major step towards the democratisation of science.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Does the Netflix Squid Game 3 Trailer Hint at Something Dark?

does-the-netflix-squid-game-3-trailer-hint-at-something-dark

The Netflix show that once took the world by it’s grotesque, metaphorical reflection of the world and the hunger for money and power, is finally bidding us farewell. Yes, I am talking about Squid Game 3. The final trilogy’s trailer of the series has dropped and well…it’s pretty dark.

The third and final season of the series will premiere on 27 June, so let’s prepare ourselves for more emotional trauma.

The Masked Devil Has Evolved

From the first few seconds of the trailer, it’s clear something has changed. The familiar eerie red-light-green-light nostalgia is replaced by… silence.

There’s blood (we expect that now), but there’s also something more psychological. The look in the eyes of the new players isn’t just desperation. It’s numbness. It’s a haunting acceptance that death is more predictable than life.

And the Front Man? He’s no longer just an ominous figure controlling the game. He’s evolving into something symbolic; a metaphor for how power adapts, how it hides behind justice and structure while breaking people down from the inside.

Is Netflix hinting that the next game will play out not just on a physical level, but psychologically? A war of loyalty, betrayal, even belief? If Season 1 explored desperation and Season 2 hinted at revenge, Season 3 seems to be asking a more haunting question: What happens when the game never ends?

Gi-hun’s Spiral: Hero, Villain… or Puppet?

And then there’s Gi-hun. We see him briefly in the trailer. His signature red hair is gone, replaced by a far more sombre look. Is he the same man who turned back at the end of Season 1, vowing to burn the system down? Or has he been absorbed into it? The ambiguity in his eyes is telling.

If Gi-hun is in on the game now, does that make him the villain? Or a martyr? Maybe even a pawn of something darker? In the end, we can see one of the masked guards tell Gi-hun that “he wants to see you,” but why? Did the system keep him alive to feed off of him?

Will he finally bring an end to this game, like he said, “I am trying to put an end to it”, or it just the tip of the iceberg.

gi-huns-spiral_-hero-villain…-or-puppet

New Faces, Similar Wounds

What truly sends a chill down the spine is not the violence but the emotional decay. The trailer shows glimpses of players who aren’t just broke but also broken from within.

One woman clutches a child’s drawing. Another stares blankly into a mirror, her face twitching from holding in years of suppressed pain. These aren’t contestants anymore; they’re living ghosts.

Could it be that this new version of the game isn’t about money at all anymore? Is it about control, manipulation, or even mass experimentation? The trailer’s refusal to explain these new elements is what makes it feel so much more disturbing.

The Line Between Game and Reality Is Blurring

Squid Game became a cultural phenomenon because it tapped into something we all understand: the cruelty of systems, the exhaustion of survival, the performance of choice in a rigged world.

But this isn’t just a game anymore. The trailer doesn’t just hint at something dark, but also dares us to ask whether the real darkness is the game itself… or our fascination with it.

The game that wasn’t trying to test who would survive, but who would lose their soul first. Sound familiar to the current dystopian reality of the world’s state?

Maybe the camera was never on the players; perhaps it was on us. Maybe… we’re players too.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Swing’s Back and Bunny Hops Are Out: ICC’s Latest Rule Changes Explained

swings-back-and-bunny-hops-are-out-icc-rule-changes

Just when you thought cricket couldn’t surprise you anymore, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced some rule changes across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. And yes, these changes are more than just tweaks — they’re set to shake things up on the field.

From a modified two-ball rule in ODIs to the end of those outrageous “bunny-hop” catches at the boundary, here’s everything you need to know — without the jargon.

Say Hello to Reverse Swing Again

Let’s start with the biggest headline — the two-ball rule in ODIs is getting a facelift. For over a decade, white-ball cricket fans have lamented the loss of reverse swing in the final overs.

Why? Because of those two shiny new balls used from either end, both staying far too fresh till the death. But that’s changing now.

  • What’s new? Instead of using two balls till the 25th over, teams will now use both balls up to the 34th over.
  • From the 35th over onwards, the fielding side must pick one of the two balls to use for the rest of the innings.
  • And if the match is 25 overs or less, it’s back to just one ball.

Why this matters: This move is tailor-made for bowlers — especially reverse swing specialists who’ve been rendered ineffective by balls that refuse to age. Expect more drama at the death!

Concussion Substitutes Just Got More Structured

The concussion substitute rule also sees a serious upgrade — and honestly, it makes perfect sense.

Instead of random replacements, teams must now pre-nominate five substitutes ahead of each game, one for each role:

  • A batter
  • A wicketkeeper
  • A spin bowler
  • A seam bowler
  • An all-rounder

This ensures like-for-like replacements, keeping the playing field fair. And yes, if a substitute also gets injured (talk about bad luck), the match referee may allow another replacement even outside the original five.

Bunny Hop Boundary Catches Are History

This one’s going to divide fans. You know those jaw-dropping moments when a fielder leaps from outside the boundary line, taps the ball mid-air, and pulls off a relay catch? That’s the ‘bunny-hop’ — and it’s now officially illegal.

  • What’s banned: Any catch where a fielder jumps from beyond the boundary without being grounded inside before touching the ball.
  • What’s still legal: The fielder starts inside the boundary, taps the ball up, steps out due to momentum, then jumps back in to complete the catch.

The MCC’s new wording ensures fielders must establish control inside the field to ensure a fair play. Although the official law comes into effect in October 2026, it will start showing up in ICC match playing conditions as early as next week.

When Do These Changes Take Effect?

  • Test matches: From June 17, 2025
  • ODIs: From July 2, 2025
  • T20Is: From July 10, 2025
  • Bunny-hop ban: ICC playing conditions in June 2025, full law by October 2026

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Rain or Drizzle Expected in Karachi’s Northern and Western Areas Today

rain-or-drizzle-likely-in-karachis-north-and-west-today

Sunday saw light rain and drizzle in some areas of Karachi, providing a brief respite from the oppressive heat of the city. Short bursts of rain struck regions including Gulshan-e- Maymar, New Karachi, and Surjani Town with some minor showers in Baldia Town and Orangi Town.

More rain or drizzle today was predicted by a Met Office official, especially in Karachi’s northern and western districts. Despite these mild rains, the temperature in most regions of Sindh will remain warm and muggy.

Deputy Director of the Met Department Anjum Nazir reported that intermittent rainfall is expected in Karachi’s outskirts. He also said, “This wet spell in different regions of the nation could last until tomorrow.”

During this pre-monsoon period, some areas in Balochistan, Khuzdar and Lasbela, among others, could also have rain. Clouds are anticipated in many regions of Sindh today.

Partially cloudy skies might be seen at places including Mithi, Umar Kot, Badin, Thatta, Mirpur Khas, Shaheed Benazir Abad, Khairpur, Dadu, Sukkur, Ghotki, Jacobabad, and Shikarpur. Some places will also have storms and high winds.

The meteorological department noted that there may be heavy rain in certain areas. Though the general spell is modest, some towns might experience heavier showers than others.

Anjum Nazir Zaigham said that “The monsoon rains of 2025 will begin by June 25.” This gives some idea when more widespread rainfall will start.

He also mentioned that higher temperatures in northern regions are swiftly melting snow. The increased snowfall is assisting in the upgrading of the river water quality.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

“Play Against Big Teams, Then We’ll Talk:” Tanvir Ahmed Slams Salman Ali Agha

inside-story-how-salman-ali-agha-landed-t20i-captaincy-role-play-against-big-teams-tanvir-ahmed-slams-salman-ali-agha

In the ever-boiling cauldron of Pakistan cricket, there’s never a quiet day — and former pacer Tanvir Ahmed just added more fire to the pot. In a recent interview, he called out Pakistan’s T20I captain, Salman Ali Agha, and head coach Mike Hesson.

His message was was loud and clear: “It’s not enough to play fearless cricket against Bangladesh. Do it against the big boys — then we’ll talk about a new era.”

Tanvir was quick to dismiss the notion that he’s against the rise of young blood in Pakistan cricket just because he supports veterans like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

“People say I don’t back youngsters because of Babar and Rizwan. That’s not true at all,” he clarified. “I just want these young players to show the same spirit and skill against teams like England, India, and South Africa — not just Bangladesh.”

The Real Test Isn’t Bangladesh

While Pakistan’s recent show against Bangladesh offered glimpses of hope, Tanvir believes that real validation only comes against top-tier opponents.

He challenged the new leadership vision of Salman Ali Agha: “You’re saying this is the new brand of cricket we’re going to play? Great. Now show us that same brand against the likes of New Zealand, England, South Africa, or India — and in ICC tournaments.”

In a surprising show of flexibility, Tanvir Ahmed made one thing crystal clear: he’s not stuck in the past.

“If this new group truly performs against strong teams, then yes, I’ll say it myself — Pakistan no longer needs Babar and Rizwan in the T20 side,” he stated. “But don’t bench your best players on the back of one good series against Bangladesh.”

It’s a valid point. Great teams are built on consistency, not just one-off flashes of brilliance.

Upcoming Series: The Real Litmus Test

Tanvir also put the spotlight on the crucial upcoming series against West Indies and Afghanistan, warning that these matches won’t be as easy as some might assume.

“These are not weak sides. If we flop here, right before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, then it’s only fair that Babar and Rizwan return — no questions asked,” he warned.

According to him, these games will determine whether the new-look Pakistan team is actually ready for the big leagues, or if it’s all just talk.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Pakistan To Face India On October 5 In Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

pakistan-to-play-in-sri-lanka-icc-womens-world-cup-2025

The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 schedule is finally out, and fans already have one match circled in bold: Pakistan vs India on October 5 in Colombo.

While India and Sri Lanka will co-host the event, Pakistan’s matches will all be played in Colombo, thanks to the diplomatic workaround known as the “fusion formula.”

This neutral venue arrangement — similar to what’s planned for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 — ensures that Pakistan and India won’t be playing on each other’s soil for at least the next three years. The idea is to keep the cricket alive while sidestepping the politics.

When and Where It All Begins

The tournament will open on September 30, with hosts India taking on Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. But the real thrill, at least for fans in Pakistan and India, starts a few days later.

Here’s what Pakistan Women’s group stage schedule looks like:

  • October 2 – vs Bangladesh
  • October 5 – vs India (Colombo – the marquee match!)
  • October 8 – vs Australia
  • October 15 – vs England
  • October 18 – vs New Zealand
  • October 21 – vs South Africa
  • October 24 – vs Sri Lanka

Why Women’s World Cup 2025 Feels Different?

For starters, Colombo is going to be buzzing. With every Pakistan game set in the Sri Lankan capital, local fans might just become the Men in Green’s honorary home crowd.

And then there’s the emotion. These are not just matches. They’re stories in the making — of redemption, rivalry, and recognition. Pakistan’s women’s team has quietly but steadily been climbing the ranks, and this tournament gives them a stage to announce themselves.

Let’s face it — India vs Pakistan in any format is a blockbuster, but in the World Cup, it’s something else. And with the match set in neutral territory, emotions will run even higher.

It’s worth noting that the first semi-final is scheduled for October 29 in Guwahati or Colombo, while Bengaluru will host the second semi-final on October 30.

The final will be played on November 2 in Bengaluru, unless Pakistan qualify, in which case the summit clash will shift to Colombo.

Schedule of ICC Women’s ODI World Cup

  • India vs Sri Lanka – September 30 – Bengaluru
  • Australia vs New Zealand – October 1 – Indore
  • Bangladesh vs Pakistan – October 2 – Colombo
  • England vs South Africa – October 3 – Bengaluru
  • Australia vs Sri Lanka – October 4 – Colombo
  • India vs Pakistan – October 5 – Colombo
  • New Zealand vs South Africa – October 6 – Indore
  • England vs Bangladesh – October 7 – Guwahati
  • Australia vs Pakistan – October 8 – Colombo
  • India vs South Africa – October 9 – Vizag
  • New Zealand vs Bangladesh – October 10 – Vizag
  • England vs Sri Lanka – October 11 – Guwahati
  • India vs Australia – October 12 – Vizag
  • South Africa vs Bangladesh – October 13 – Vizag
  • New Zealand vs Sri Lanka – October 14 – Colombo
  • England vs Pakistan – October 15 – Colombo
  • Australia vs Bangladesh – October 16 – Vizag
  • South Africa vs Sri Lanka – October 17 – Colombo
  • New Zealand vs Pakistan – October 18 – Colombo
  • India vs England – October 19 – Indore
  • Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh – October 20 – Colombo
  • South Africa vs Pakistan – October 21 – Colombo
  • Australia vs England – October 22 – Indore
  • India vs New Zealand – October 23 – Guwahati
  • Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – October 24 – Colombo
  • Australia vs Sri Lanka – October 25 – Indore
  • England vs New Zealand – October 26 – Guwahati
  • India vs Bangladesh – October 26 – Bengaluru
  • Semifinal 1 – October 29 – Guwahati/Colombo
  • Semifinal 2 – October 30 – Bengaluru
  • Final – November 2 – Colombo/Bengaluru

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Did the US Invite Pak Army Chief Asim Munir to its Military Parade?

did-us-invite-pak-army-chief-asim-munir-to-its-military-parade

Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir arrived in Washington on Sunday for a five-day official visit that aimed at strengthening military and strategic relations between Pakistan and the United States, according to diplomatic sources.

The visit is described as “primarily bilateral in nature” and is not officially connected to the US Army’s 250th anniversary celebrations on June 14.

Although Field Marshal Munir did not attend the military parade, some sources speculated that he spent two days at the US Central Command in Tampa, Florida. The Pakistani embassy in Washington has, however, declined to confirm or deny this.

The visit includes scheduled meetings with senior US officials, including the Secretaries of Defence and State, as well as top US military commanders.

Protests and Regional Tensions Surround Visit

Meanwhile, PTI supporters protested outside the Pakistan embassy in Washington on Saturday, calling for the return of what they called “unfettered democracy” in Pakistan.

One protest organiser said, “We believe the army chief is in Washington, and that’s why we’re here.” The embassy again chose not to comment on the visit at that time.

Michael Kugelman, a South Asia analyst based in Washington, said the visit comes at a complicated moment following Israeli strikes on Iran.

Pakistan wants to cultivate US support but has condemned the Israeli strikes and is working to strengthen ties with Tehran,” Kugelman said.

“For Gen Asim Munir to be in the capital of Israel’s closest ally and Iran’s primary adversary at such a tense moment could lead to some uncomfortable conversations,” he added.

He added that while counterterrorism cooperation would likely dominate the talks, broader partnership goals might be harder to achieve.

Shuja Nawaz from the Atlantic Council also noted, “Washington sees Pakistan in the China camp but as a useful counterterrorism base,” adding that the US prioritises trade and tech ties with India, making the strategic dynamic unbalanced.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

How Long Will This New Petrol Hike Last?

how-long-will-this-new-petrol-hike-last

The federal government has raised petrol and diesel prices once again. Petrol now costs Rs 258.43 per litre after a hike of Rs 4.80. Diesel became more expensive by Rs 7.95, reaching Rs 262.59 per litre. The new prices took effect immediately and will last for the next 15 days.

The finance ministry said, “The changes will come into effect immediately and will remain in force until the next review.” This increase follows the regular two-week fuel price adjustment. Although the notice didn’t explain the reason, the trend of rising prices continues.

On June 1, 2025, the government had already raised the petrol rate by Rs 1, bringing the new price to Rs 253.63 per litre. Diesel prices remained unchanged at Rs 254.64 per litre. That price adjustment also came into effect right after the official notice.

Earlier on May 16, 2025, the petrol price had stayed the same at Rs 252.63 per litre. Diesel, however, saw a drop of Rs 2 and settled at Rs 254.64. But this short relief ended quickly as prices began rising again in the following weeks.

On April 30, the government cut both petrol and diesel prices by Rs 2. This reduction set petrol at Rs 252.63 and diesel at Rs 256.64 per litre. Just a few days earlier, on April 15, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said there would be no further reductions.

He said, “The benefits of declining global oil prices to consumers would be passed through uplift projects.” He also mentioned that the government would use falling global rates for development instead of cutting prices. This policy marked a shift from giving direct relief to funding infrastructure.

Fuel prices now show a clear upward pattern again. These constant changes are hitting people’s daily expenses hard. The newest hike is expected to raise transport and goods costs even more.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Trump Told Israel not to Kill Iran’s Supreme Leader

trump-told-israel-not-to-kill-irans-supreme-leader

According to three US officials speaking to CBS News, former US President Donald Trump rejected an Israeli plan to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

One official said that Trump told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that killing Khamenei was “not a good idea.” Trump has not made any public comment on the matter yet.

The conversation reportedly happened after Israel began its attacks on Iran last Friday.

During a Fox News interview, Netanyahu did not confirm or deny the Reuters report that Trump had blocked the plan.

He stated, “There are so many false reports of conversations that never happened, and I’m not going to get into that.”

He added, “But I can tell you I think we do what we need to do. We will do what we need to do, and I think the United States knows what is good for the United States, and I’m just not going to get into it.”

An Israeli official told CBS News that, “in principle”, Israel does not kill political leaders and is focused on military and nuclear targets.

“I don’t think anyone making decisions about those programmes should be living free and easy,” he added.

Tensions Rise as Attacks Continue

The conflict between Iran and Israel escalated after Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure on Friday. Since then, both countries have continued attacking each other for three consecutive days.

Trump wrote on Truth Social that “Iran and Israel should make a deal,” and said that he could stop the fighting “just like I got India and Pakistan.”

Speaking before heading to the G7 summit, Trump said the US would keep supporting Israel but didn’t say whether he had asked Israel to stop the strikes.

US-Iran nuclear talks set for Sunday were cancelled. Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said on Saturday that the talks would not happen.

A source told Reuters that Iran informed Qatar and Oman that it would not negotiate while under Israeli attack.

Trump warned, “If we are attacked in any way, shape or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before.”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Is Israel Ready for the Consequences of this Strike?

is-israel-ready-for-the-consequences-of-this-strike

General Mohammad Kazemi, the intelligence head of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was martyred in an Israeli assault. Iranian media verified his passing along with several IRGC officers in what they termed an Israeli assault on Iranian land.

Iran’s armed forces launched a significant counterattack against Israel on Monday morning in retaliation. Iran shot almost 100 missiles towards various Israeli cities.

According to Israeli media, the missiles and drones struck several cities, including Haifa and Tel Aviv. Several rockets damaged buildings in Tel Aviv, and Haifa’s power facility erupted in a large fire.

Many regions in the central occupied Palestine had extensive power outages after Iran’s retaliation. Israeli media said the strikes in Haifa and other areas of the country had interrupted the electricity supply.

According to a statement from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, this most recent counterattack used a distinct technique. The Guards stated, “The efforts and capabilities used in this operation, despite the comprehensive support of the United States and Western powers and the possession of the most up-to-date and newest defence technology, led to the successful and maximum hitting of the missiles on the targets in the occupied territories.”

They also claimed that their method caused Israel’s cutting-edge defence systems to mislead and assault one another throughout the missile interception process.

The news emphasises rising conflict between Israel and Iran and reveals that both sides are stepping up their military actions. The death of a senior commander like Brigadier General Kazemi suggests a fresh degree of conflict in the area.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

PMD Says Karachi Might Get Rain, But When?

pmd-predicts-rain-in-karachi-on-monday-and-tuesday

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an early warning for rain and thunderstorms in Karachi and several other districts of Sindh on Monday and Tuesday.

The Met Office stated that some suburban parts of Karachi may experience rainfall with thunder on Monday night or Tuesday, and gusty winds are also expected during showers in surrounding areas on Tuesday.

A westerly weather system is currently impacting the upper regions of Pakistan, while moisture-laden winds are entering eastern Sindh.

Under this system, light to moderate rain with thunder is expected in Ghotki, Sukkur, Jacobabad, Qambar Shahdadkot, Shikarpur, Khairpur, Dadu, Naushahro Feroze, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Tharparkar.

Between June 16 and 17, rain may also occur in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Sanghar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Hyderabad, Matiari, Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin.

Karachi is expected to remain hot and humid with partly cloudy skies over the next three days. The temperature may reach between 36°C and 38°C, with humidity levels as high as 80% in the morning and 55% in the evening.

PMD added that the westerly system will continue to affect the country through Monday. While most areas of Punjab will stay hot and dry, some places like Murree, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Multan may see dust storms and thundershowers. Scattered rain is also expected in Kashmir.

By Sunday, partly cloudy skies are likely in most districts, with a chance of dust storms, rain, and hail in upper Punjab and Kashmir.

Over the last 24 hours, light rain was recorded in parts of Punjab, with Gujrat receiving the highest at 11.6 mm. Despite some rainfall, high temperatures continued: Bahawalnagar recorded 49°C, while Murree stayed the coolest at 17°C.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

6,000 Flights Cancelled Globally in Two Days due to Iran-Israel Conflict

6000-flights-cancelled-globally-in-two-days-due-to-iran-israel-conflict

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has caused major disruptions to international air travel, with approximately 6,000 flights cancelled globally over the past two days.

Media reports indicate that airspace over Iran, Iraq, and Israel remains closed. This has affected flight routes and airport activities across the region.

Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport has fully suspended flights due to Israeli military operations.

Airports in Damascus, Baghdad, Tehran, Beirut and Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport have also shut down due to the rising tensions.

Aviation officials stated that the airspace closures in Iran, Iraq and Israel have persisted for two days.

Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria are permitting very limited air traffic, only after prior approval and under strict conditions.

These closures are impacting many important international flight connections. Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv typically has flights to 100 destinations in 44 countries every day.

Queen Alia International Airport in Amman connects with 81 airports in 40 countries. Damascus International Airport links to 20 international airports in 13 countries.

Baghdad International Airport connects to 32 airports in 18 countries, Tehran links to 51 airports in 23 countries, and Beirut handles flights to 49 destinations in 26 countries.

FlightRadar24 data shows that around 3,000 flights have been cancelled each day since the conflict intensified.

The cancellations increased after Israel announced on Friday that it had carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, missile locations, and top military officials.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

If Aggression Stops, so will our Response, says Iran to Israel

iran-says-strikes-on-israel-were-self-defence

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday that Iran’s recent military response to Israel was an act of self-defence.

He made these remarks during a press conference in Tehran, marking his first public appearance since Israel commenced airstrikes on Friday.

Araghchi declared, “If the aggression stops, our responses will also cease,” adding that Iran does not wish for the conflict to escalate into neighbouring countries unless compelled to act.

Israel has continued its airstrikes on Iran for a third consecutive day, reportedly targeting military and nuclear-related facilities.

Some Iranian missiles are said to have bypassed Israel’s air defences, striking deep within the country.

Araghchi criticised the United States for failing to condemn Israel’s attacks, labelling them “illegal Israeli strikes” and asserting, “The US must not remain silent on this blatant violation of international law.”

He further stated that Iran’s actions were legal under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which permits countries to for self defence when attacked.

“Our actions have been defensive in nature. We do not seek war, but we will not remain silent in the face of aggression,” Araghchi added.

There was no official comment from Israel following Araghchi’s statements. Previously, Israel has stated that its strikes aim to prevent Iran from expanding its military and nuclear capabilities.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates

Israel Strikes Deep into Iran Amid Rising Death Toll and Nuclear Tensions

Israel initiated Operation Rising Lion, focusing on numerous missile launch sites and air defense systems deep within Iranian territory.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a serious warning on Saturday, stating that “Tehran will burn” if Iran keeps up its missile strikes on Israeli soil. This bold declaration came after a wave of ballistic missile attacks from Iran that tragically resulted in three deaths and left at least 91 others injured across central Israel.
These strikes were a response to Israeli airstrikes aimed at Iran’s military and nuclear facilities.

Even with the casualties and alerts ringing out in cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa, Israeli officials reported that their air defences managed to intercept most of the incoming missiles. However, some missile debris did cause damage to several buildings, and one strike near the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv ignited a fire.
Following a high-level military briefing, Katz addressed Iran’s Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei directly, asserting that Israel would continue its operations “for as long as necessary.”

In the meantime, Israel initiated Operation Rising Lion, focusing on numerous missile launch sites and air defence systems deep within Iranian territory. The Israeli military claimed to have successfully neutralised several critical locations near Tehran and beyond. As the operation progressed, Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported the deaths of two members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in central Iran, along with three more in Zanjan province, including at least three nuclear scientists linked to Iran’s strategic weapons programme.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Anadolu English (@anadoluagency)

High-Value Targets and Regional Fallout

The recent Israeli airstrikes were reportedly aimed at crippling Iran’s military capabilities, especially concerning its nuclear weapons development. Israeli officials claim that nine senior scientists associated with Iran’s nuclear programme were killed in these precise airstrikes. Among those confirmed dead are Ali Bakaei Karimi, Mansour Asgari, and Saeid Borji, all recognised by Iranian sources as prominent nuclear experts.

But the impact of these attacks went beyond just the loss of life; they also wreaked havoc on residential areas. In Ramat Gan, a suburb of Tel Aviv, nine buildings were left in ruins, forcing nearly 400 residents to evacuate, as reported by Haaretz. Although Iran’s counterattacks were mostly intercepted, they still caused damage and reignited concerns about a broader conflict.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Israel Defense Forces (@idf)

Following the Israeli strikes, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 78 people, including several high-ranking IRGC generals and nuclear officials, Iran launched missiles in retaliation. Tehran seems to be focused on showcasing its ability to respond forcefully while also gauging how far the international community will tolerate its actions.
Tragically, the death toll in Israel has now risen to three, as a woman who was injured during the missile attack has passed away from her injuries.

Global Diplomatic Response and Strategic Risk

The ongoing crisis has sparked a wave of international alarm. At the United Nations Security Council, Iran’s UN envoy, Amir Saeid Iravani, didn’t hold back, directly accusing the United States of complicity due to its “unconditional support” for Israel’s military actions. While US officials acknowledged they were given a heads-up about Israel’s operation, they firmly denied any involvement. State Department spokesperson McCoy Pitt issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that targeting US interests would lead to “dire consequences” for any escalation.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Anadolu English (@anadoluagency)

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, former US President Donald Trump confirmed he was informed ahead of time, advising Iran to “make a deal before there is nothing left.” This diplomatic back-and-forth highlights the growing concerns about a larger regional conflict that could draw in global powers.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Anadolu English (@anadoluagency)

On another front, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned Israel’s military actions, labelling them as “unjustified and illegitimate aggression” that violates the UN Charter. Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar expressed support for Iran during a conversation with Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, calling for immediate international intervention to avert further escalation.

Adding to the tension, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi addressed the Security Council, warning that attacks on nuclear facilities could lead to “immense regional and global risks.” He urged all parties to exercise restraint and offered the agency’s help in evaluating any potential damage to nuclear sites, advocating for renewed diplomatic efforts.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Historic Win at Lord’s: South Africa Wins First ICC Title in 27 Years

South Africa Win
South Africa’s journey to victory was marked by an outstanding bowling performance, especially from Kagiso Rabada.

South Africa clinched the 2023–25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) title with an impressive five-wicket win over the defending champions, Australia, at Lord’s on Saturday.
This victory marks South Africa’s first major ICC trophy since 1998, highlighting a significant moment in the country’s cricketing revival.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ICC (@icc)

Aiden Markram played a crucial role in the fourth-innings chase, scoring a steady and determined 136 off 207 balls, which helped the Proteas surpass the 282-run target early on day four.

His performance, characterised by technical skill and mental fortitude, was the foundation of South Africa’s successful chase, finally ending a nearly three-decade wait for global cricketing success.

Strategic Execution Delivers Fourth-Innings Mastery

South Africa kicked off the day at 213/2, needing just 69 more runs to clinch the championship. They faced a bit of a hiccup when Temba Bavuma was dismissed for 66, caught behind in the third over, but the team kept their cool. Bavuma’s solid innings had been crucial in steadying the chase alongside Markram.

After that, Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham stepped up with some quick but vital contributions. Stubbs managed to score eight runs before Mitchell Starc took him out. Bedingham then teamed up with Markram for a 35-run partnership, bringing South Africa closer to their target. Even though Josh Hazlewood got Markram out just six runs shy of victory, Bedingham (20*) and Kyle Verreynne (6*) made sure there were no more hiccups.

Markram’s century, which included 14 boundaries, was the standout performance of the final, marking a historic moment for the Proteas.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ICC (@icc)

Bowling Brilliance and Tactical Resilience Set the Stage

South Africa’s journey to victory was marked by an outstanding bowling performance, especially from Kagiso Rabada, who took 5 wickets for 47 runs in Australia’s first innings, which totaled 212.
Even though the Proteas could only muster a modest 138 all out in response, they maintained a disciplined approach. Pat Cummins shone for Australia with figures of 6 for 41, giving them a first-innings lead of 74 runs.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ICC (@icc)

However, Australia’s second innings didn’t build on that advantage. They could only score 207 runs, despite a late surge from Mitchell Starc, who scored 58, along with earlier contributions from Beau Webster (72) and Steve Smith (62). Ultimately, it was the Proteas’ collective discipline and adaptability that made all the difference.

This victory not only crowned South Africa as the World Test Champions but also highlighted their strategic growth and increasing maturity in red-ball cricket, offering a promising outlook for their future international endeavors.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

JS Bank & Zindigi Recognized for Excellence at Pakistan Digital Awards

The Pakistan Digital Awards are among the most respected industry recognitions, celebrating outstanding achievements.

Karachi, June 13, 2025 — JS Bank, one of the fastest-growing banks in Pakistan, along with its digital financial platform Zindigi, made a strong impression at the Pakistan Digital Awards 2025, securing multiple accolades across key categories. The Bank was recognized for its excellence in digital innovation, creative strategy, and impactful execution through award-winning campaigns.

JS Bank received the Best Social Media Campaign on LinkedIn award for JS PayDay and the Best SEO Campaign award for significantly enhancing JS Bank’s web footprint. Meanwhile, Zindigi was honored with the Best Incubator Program award for its flagship Zindigi Prize initiative, Pakistan’s pioneering entrepreneurship program for students, while Babar Ibtisam, Head of Zindigi Prize, was also named Young Digital Entrepreneur of the Year for his contribution to the initiative.

The Pakistan Digital Awards are among the most respected industry recognitions, celebrating outstanding achievements in the tech and digital marketing landscape. These wins reflect the ongoing commitment of JS Bank to driving innovation and setting new benchmarks in the financial sector.

With a vision to redefine digital banking in Pakistan, JS Bank continues to invest in transformative solutions that empower customers and create a lasting impact across communities.

BankIslami won the Best Campaign Award at the Pakistan Digital Awards 2025

This award follows BankIslami’s recent recognition by Euromoney as the Best Islamic Bank in Pakistan, highlighting its efforts.

Karachi, 13 June, 2025. BankIslami, one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing financial institutions, has won the Jury Award for Best Campaign at the Pakistan Digital Awards (PDA). This was awarded in recognition of the Bank’s purpose-led campaign, Saving Humanity from Riba, which stood out for its bold messaging and strategic commitment to promoting Riba-free banking in Pakistan.

The 360-degree campaign championed accessibility and inclusivity in Islamic finance, reinforcing BankIslami’s commitment to ethical financial practices rooted in faith and integrity. Spanning digital and conventional media platforms, the campaign raised awareness about the core benefits of Islamic banking and invited individuals of all faiths to be part of a system that promotes financial justice for all.

“What may appear as just another marketing campaign to others was the beginning of a movement for BankIslami. Saving Humanity from Riba is not just a slogan, it is a reflection of our mission and a commitment we live by every day,” said Hasan Saeed Akbar, Head of Marketing and Strategy at BankIslami. “Our ambition was to promote ethical finance across Pakistan and move closer to a system free from the injustice of riba,” he added.

This award follows BankIslami’s recent recognition by Euromoney as the Best Islamic Bank in Pakistan, highlighting its efforts to make banking more inclusive and to provide high-quality services to customers nationwide.

BankIslami remains committed to advancing its mission by rolling out new Shariah-compliant financial tools, expanding its reach to more Pakistani households through technology-driven solutions, partnerships with community-based organizations, and promoting financial literacy for inclusive, ethical banking.

Zong Join Hands with Axis Mall & Apartments in a Strategic Partnership for Smart Connectivity and Building Management Solutions

While Zong has long been a leader in enterprise connectivity, this marks the first time we are delivering a unified Building Management.

Islamabad, Pakistan – June 13, 2025 – Setting a new precedent in connected urban development, Zong, Pakistan’s leading technology innovation company, has partnered with Axis Mall & Apartments – V One Associates to deploy the country’s first fully integrated Building Management Solution in a high-rise mixed-use development.

Located in Faisal Town, Islamabad, Axis Mall & Apartments is a state-of-the-art 18-floor facility comprising residential apartments and commercial shops, now powered by Zong’s robust Fiber-to-the-X (FTTX) capabilities. As part of this collaboration, Zong will deploy a comprehensive fiber backbone throughout Axis Mall & Apartments, providing tenants with seamless Managed WiFi across all units.

The partnership also includes a dedicated Building Management System that delivers end-to-end infrastructure solutions tailored to the operational and technological needs of residents and businesses. An integrated application will further enhance the experience by allowing users to manage individual units, streamline tenant operations, and access a range of value-added digital services.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Farooq Raza Khan, Head of Zong Business Solutions, stated:

“This collaboration with Axis Mall & Apartments is a testament to Zong’s commitment to innovation and digital excellence. While Zong has long been a leader in enterprise connectivity, this marks the first time we are delivering a unified Building Management Solution at this scale; making Axis Mall & Apartments a benchmark for future-ready buildings in Pakistan.”

Mr. Shafiq Afridi, CEO of Axis & Apartments, also added: “We’re excited to join hands with Zong, a name synonymous with innovation and connectivity. Through this partnership, Axis Mall & Apartments is set to become more than just a commercial hub; it will be a smart, tech-forward destination redefining urban living in Islamabad.”

With the support of China Mobile Communications Corporation (CMCC), Zong is introducing intelligent infrastructure solutions that redefine modern urban spaces in Pakistan. The Axis Mall & Apartments partnership is a step forward in creating smart, sustainable communities powered by advanced connectivity and enterprise technology.