Pakistan Viral Series

  The world changed after the pandemic, and digital transformation sped up. In November 2022, OpenAI released ChatGPT,  a popular generative AI tool. It quickly gained over a million users, creating a buzz around AI . Other tools like Alphabet’s Bard and Baidu’s Ernie followed, boosting tech stocks. AI isn’t new, dating back to the fifties with Alan Turing’s ideas. AI chatbots like Eliza emerged in the sixties. By 2010, big tech integrated AI into products, making Google, Meta, Amazon, Uber, LinkedIn, and TikTok iconic with machine learning. Generative AI, using neural networks, differs from traditional AI by creating new content and allowing natural language communication. It has huge productivity implications, especially for startups and small businesses. In the ABC (advertising, brand, communications) ecosystem, generative AI enhances creativity, personalization, and efficiency. However, it’s still in early phases, needing integration into processes beyond simple prompting....

  In Islamabad, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has given the government a  seven-day ultimatum to address their demands , including ending enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Balochistan. Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a protest organizer, outlined demands such as a UN Working Group investigation, signing agreements to eliminate disappearances and killings, releasing all victims, and restricting the Counter-Terrorism Department. If the government fails to negotiate sincerely, the BYC threatens to present its case to the Baloch people after seven days. The protest, sparked by alleged extrajudicial killing, has faced police actions and accusations of disruption by authorities.

  As tributes pour in for the late Iranian commander Razi Moussavi, killed in an Israeli missile strike near Damascus, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issues a direct warning to Israel.  The IRGC spokesperson, Ramezan Sharif, declares that Iran and its allied  groups will take “direct” action to avenge Moussavi’s death. Moussavi, a senior commander in the Guards’ foreign operations unit, the Quds Force, was targeted amid heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The Israeli army, known for previous strikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria, maintains its stance of not commenting on foreign media reports. The circumstances surrounding Moussavi’s death intensified as IRGC spokesman Sharif suggests that Israel’s actions were a response to its perceived failures after the October 7 surprise attack by Hamas, known as “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.” The attack led to casualties on both sides and triggered a cycle of violence. Sharif emphasizes ...

  In a rare commentary on the ongoing Gaza conflict, Mohamed Salah, the renowned Liverpool forward, shared a touching  Christmas message, urging not to forget the families affected by the violence.  Salah, who had faced criticism for his initial silence, posted a black-and-white image of a Christmas tree on his social media platforms, reaching out to his millions of followers. The conflict escalated when Hamas militants launched a cross-border rampage on Oct 7, leading to intense bombardment by Israel. Salah acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “With the brutal war going on in the Middle East, especially the death and destruction in Gaza, this year we get to Christmas with very heavy hearts.” The footballer emphasized the importance of not becoming desensitized to the suffering and urged people not to forget the grieving families. Salah’s message comes after his significant donation to aid the people of Gaza, as confirmed by Egyptian Red Crescent officials ...

In a festive display of unity, Pakistan's Christian community is celebrating Christmas today with vibrant traditions and heartfelt enthusiasm. Churches and streets are aglow with festive lights, and the sweet aroma of custom Christmas cakes fills the air in bakeries. Markets proudly showcase Christmas merchandise, and the laughter of children dressed as Santa Claus echoes through the air. Worshippers, adorned in their festive best, gather in churches across the nation for prayer services, accompanied by their families. The atmosphere is one of joy and togetherness, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas. Despite the celebratory mood, the safety of the Christian community is paramount. Rigorous security measures have been put in place, with deployed forces stationed outside churches to ensure a peaceful celebration and prevent any untoward incidents. President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar have extended warm greetings to the Christian community on this specia...

  In a surprising turn of events, the UK government has reconsidered its recent immigration policy changes , particularly the controversial £38,700 salary threshold for UK residents to sponsor a foreign spouse. Originally met with widespread criticism, the government has now decided to ease the burden on families by reducing the initial threshold to £29,000 instead of the initially proposed £38,700. This decision comes after concerns were raised about the impact on South Asian families, and a Conservative MP expressed worries about the policy making the party appear opposed to “love.” The Home Office confirmed the modifications in the Minimum Income Requirement for family migration. While the threshold is expected to eventually reach £38,700, the initial increase will be to £29,000, compared to the current threshold of £18,600. This move aims to address the backlash and provide more flexibility for UK residents looking to sponsor their partners or spouses. Lord Sharpe of Epsom, con...

  In a surprising turn of events, the widely-used social media platform X, previously known as Twitter,  faced a global outage early on Thursday, leaving millions of users in the dark. The disruption led to a flurry of reports on Downdetector, with users encountering issues ranging from inability to view posts to loading problems on X Pro (formerly TweetDeck). Over 77,000 users in the US experienced access troubles with both X and X Pro, prompting them to turn to alternative platforms like Facebook, Threads, Reddit, and Meta’s Threads to share updates about the situation. The outage even reached Pakistan, where nearly 1,000 reports surfaced before access was restored later in the day. Despite the widespread impact, there has been no official statement from X regarding the cause of the outage, leaving users and experts alike curious about the circumstances surrounding the incident. This outage comes at a challenging time for X, which is grappling with various challenges, includ...

  In a recent court hearing at the Sindh High Court, senior lawyer Munir A. Malik challenged the government’s decision to appoint K-Electric (KE) to collect Municipal Charges & Taxes (MUCT) for the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) through electricity bills. Malik argued that this move violates contract rules and raised constitutional concerns. According to Malik, the notification authorizing KE’s engagement for tax collection, issued on Jan 21, 2022, goes against the Sindh Local Government Contract Rules, 2001. He emphasized that as there are multiple service providers in Karachi, the contract should have followed specified rules. Malik highlighted that KE should not exercise coercive powers under the Electricity Act to collect taxes, as the disconnection of power is regulated by federal law. He pointed out that neither the Sindh Local Government Act, 2013 nor the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) Act 1997, empower KE to disconnect power due to non-pay...

In a dramatic turn of events, the mother of former PTI leader Usman Dar has accused PML-N stalwart Khawaja Asif and local police of orchestrating a raid on their Sialkot home , alleging physical mistreatment. Asif and the police deny the allegations. In a compelling video shared on social media, Usman Dar’s mother appealed to Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa to intervene, showcasing a broken door frame as evidence of the alleged attack. Undeterred, she decided to submit her nomination for the upcoming February 8 general elections. In response, Khawaja Asif, while denying vindictive politics, expressed disdain for the sacrifice of his family’s traditions due to the contentious political atmosphere. He urged respect for family sanctity in political discourse. The Sialkot District Police Officer, Muhammad Hasan Iqbal, defended the police raid, stating it aimed to apprehend Usman Dar’s brother, an absconding suspect involved in multiple cases. The DPO dismissed misconduct claims, asserting tha...

  In a unique move, Imran Khan’s political party, PTI, used artificial intelligence to deliver a four-minute speech on his behalf during a virtual rally.  Khan, currently in jail, faces allegations he claims are fabricated  to prevent his participation in upcoming elections. The PTI gathered a massive online audience of over 4.5 million on platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube, despite a seven-hour social media restriction. The AI-generated speech mimicked Khan’s voice, addressing the challenges faced by the party, such as the inability to hold public rallies and reported harassment of supporters’ families. The PTI’s social media chief praised the historic attempt to overcome suppression, emphasizing the party’s commitment to using technology for political engagement. However, opinions on the effectiveness of the AI speech varied among viewers. While some, like business manager Syed Muhammad Ashar, found it unconvincing and noted strange grammar, others, like media work...

  In recent news, Pakistan has experienced a nationwide disruption in social media platforms, as reported by internet monitor Netblocks. This disruption, which affected platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, occurred just before a virtual rally organized by the PTI. Users in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad faced difficulties accessing social media platforms , while others complained about slow internet services. This disruption has raised concerns about the freedom of expression and access to information in the country. This is not the first time such incidents have occurred in Pakistan. In May, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed the suspension of mobile broadband across the country on the interior ministry’s instructions. This suspension coincided with the arrest of PTI chief Imran Khan, and access to Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube was also restricted. The impact of such disruptions goes beyond inconvenience; it raises questions about ...

  In a heartfelt plea, families of hostages in Gaza are urging Israel to halt the fighting and pursue negotiations for the release of their loved ones. The call comes after the Israeli army acknowledged the accidental killing of three captives in the Palestinian territory.   At an event organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Tel Aviv,   Noam Perry, the daughter of hostage Haim Perry, implored, “We only receive dead bodies. We want you to stop the fight and start negotiations.” Question: Can heartfelt appeals from families change the course of the conflict?

  The recent developments surrounding Pakistan’s election schedule have injected a sense of urgency and anticipation into the nation’s political landscape. As the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) complies with a Supreme Court order , the stage is set for the upcoming February 8 polls. However, the journey to this point has been marked by legal battles, court orders, and even a brief episode of misinformation. The Supreme Court’s directive to the ECP, urging the swift announcement of the election schedule, reflects a commitment to upholding democratic processes. The suspension of a Lahore High Court order added a layer of complexity, emphasizing the delicate balance between the judiciary and electoral governance. Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja’s statements during an informal meeting with journalists shed light on the ECP’s preparedness for the polls. Emphasizing completing training for returning officers (ROs), Raja addressed concerns about their appointments....

In a bold move during the first Test against Pakistan, Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja staged a silent protest against the war in Gaza. Despite facing restrictions from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on political , religious, or racial messages, Khawaja had intended to wear shoes with powerful slogans like "Freedom is a human right" and "All lives are equal." Being of Pakistani descent and a Muslim himself, Khawaja's act aimed to draw attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where thousands have lost their lives in the recent Israeli bombardment. Cricket Australia supported the players adhering to ICC rules, leading Khawaja to cover the slogans with semi-transparent tape, revealing the words in the colors of the Palestinian flag only up close. Khawaja also wore a black armband as a sign of solidarity, an action Cricket Australia recognized and deemed within the regulations. The cricketer, known for his humanitarian stance, shared a video on social ...

 The recently concluded COP28 brought both hope & concern for Pakistan, a nation struggling with the harsh impacts of climate change, notably the devastating floods of 2022. One significant announcement was 'Recharge Pakistan,' a fund urged by Pakistan during COP27. While hailed as a positive step by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar Ul Haq Kakar, the fund amount, as reported by The Guardian, is just a fraction of what developing countries need to combat climate-related challenges. Another crucial focus at COP28 was on health and farming with implications for Pakistan. The Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for Climate) backed by over $17 billion from the US & the UAE, aims to promote climate-friendly farming globally. The UAE & various charities promise $777 million to combat neglected tropical diseases by rising temperatures, recognizing climate-related factors as a significant threat to human health. While global initiatives show promise, the suffici...

 Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, a leader in Pakistan, is getting engaged this week, creating a buzz among people curious about the girl he will marry.  The engagement is rumored to take place on December 15 or 16. While Bilawal hasn’t confirmed the news , there are speculations on social media. It’s said that Bilawal’s sisters and aunt are involved in finding a match.  The engagement details, such as the venue in Karachi or Dubai, remain undisclosed. The girl is from Sindh, and resides in the Emirates, but her name and other details are kept private.  Reports suggest that Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal’s father, wishes for the engagement before the February 2024 elections. Bilawal had previously mentioned that his sisters would play a role in selecting his bride.

  In the realm of fashion, where creativity often meets controversy, Zara, the Spanish retail giant , finds itself under intense scrutiny for its latest campaign titled “The Jacket.” The images, part of Zara’s Atelier series, depict model Kristen McMenamy alongside a mannequin draped in white fabric, resembling the shrouded victims of conflict. Other mannequins, amidst the rubble, are portrayed with missing limbs, amplifying the backdrop’s resemblance to scenes of destruction. Social media erupted with backlash, accusing Zara of insensitivity and using tragedy as a fashion backdrop. Notably, a piece of plasterboard in the background was pointed out for its alleged resemblance to an upside-down map of Palestine. Entrepreneur and designer Samira Atash led calls for a Zara boycott, emphasizing the need to reject the use of death and destruction in fashion. Despite claims that the campaign is a “limited edition collection celebrating craftsmanship and artistic expression,” consumers an...

  In a gesture of goodwill and interfaith harmony, the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued 104 visas to Indian Hindu pilgrims for the upcoming 315th birth anniversary celebrations of Shiv Avtari Satguru Sant Shadaram Sahib at Shadani Darbar in Sindh. Celebrating Diversity: The pilgrimage, scheduled from December 12 to 23, 2023, is made possible under the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974. This protocol has allowed thousands of Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from India to visit Pakistan annually, fostering cultural exchange and understanding. Facilitating Spiritual Journeys: The issuance of these visas aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating visits to religious shrines and promoting interfaith harmony. Charge’d’Affaires Aizaz Khan expressed “heartfelt felicitations” to the pilgrims, emphasizing the significance of their journey and wishing them a safe and enriching experience. Global Celebrations: This announcement follows the recent con...

  In a captivating conversation at the Red Sea International Film Festival, Baz Luhrmann , the visionary director behind classics like “Romeo and Juliet” and “Moulin Rouge,” shared insights into his fascinating journey. From a small Australian village to the glamour of Hollywood, how did Luhrmann’s early influences shape his unique approach to filmmaking? Discover the untold stories behind the making of iconic films like “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Great Gatsby.” How did a chance encounter with Leonardo DiCaprio lead to a lasting collaboration and the creation of cinematic masterpieces? Luhrmann’s innovative release strategy for “Australia,” turning footage into a TV series for streaming platforms, opens up new possibilities in the ever-evolving world of cinema. How is he adapting to the changing landscape and pushing boundaries in storytelling? Shifting focus to Halle Berry, the trailblazing actress shared her journey from winning the Best Actress Oscar for “Monster’s Ball” to bre...

  In the heart of a bustling Lahore hospital, parents anxiously wait with their ailing children , victims of a rising tide of pollution-related health issues. In the past month alone, pediatric patients suffering from respiratory problems have surged by at least 50%, amplifying concerns about the air quality crisis. Lahore’s Garden City legacy is now veiled in a thick smog, earning it the dubious title of the world’s worst air quality last year. As winter descended in November, air pollution soared, with hazardous conditions persisting for 24 out of the last 30 days. Parents like Mohamad Qadeer and his wife, Shazma, grapple with the anguish of watching their young daughters, Rameen and Inaaya, struggle to breathe. Despite efforts to protect them with masks and limiting outdoor exposure, the relentless pollution took a toll on their health. Dr. Maria Iftikhar from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital’s pediatric department notes that this year’s situation is notably worse, impacting the children’...

In a groundbreaking move, Argentina’s football maestro, Lionel Messi, has been crowned Time magazine’s Athlete of the Year for 2023. His journey to this accolade is not only marked by an eighth Ballon d’Or win but also by a historic World Cup victory with Argentina, ending a 36-year wait. Messi’s decision to join Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami stirred the sports world. Despite tempting offers from Barcelona & lucrative move to Saudi side Al-Hilal, Messi opted for Miami, a choice he carefully considered with his family. Upon donning the Inter Miami jersey, Messi showcased his brilliance, netting 10 goals in seven Leagues Cup appearances, propelling the team to victory. Beyond the field, his arrival caused a frenzy, boosting ticket prices and Apple TV subscriptions, affirming his impact on and off the pitch. Time magazine emphasized Messi’s achievement in turning the United States into a soccer-centric nation, a feat once thought impossible. As we celebrate Messi’s triumph, the q...

 In the aftermath of devastating Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, survivors recount harrowing tales of loss and resilience. Amid the chaos, Egypt emerges as a refuge for the wounded, offering a lifeline to those with shattered bodies and shattered lives. Ilham Majid’s story epitomizes the struggle for survival. Trapped under the rubble, she clung to life for hours, her husband’s discovery a miraculous twist of fate. Yet, 17 family members perished, leaving Majid and others grappling with the trauma. Gaza’s medical infrastructure, battered by attacks, struggles to cope. The UN reports a dire situation , with no northern Gaza hospital equipped for surgeries. In response, Egypt opens its doors to Palestinians seeking medical care, providing a respite from the relentless violence. Nasser Hospital in Cairo becomes a sanctuary for healing, where Majid and others piece together their shattered bodies and shattered souls. Yussef, 13, embodies the silent shock endured by many, his blood-stained ...

  In Gaza, brave journalists once aimed to reveal the truth about Israeli actions. Now, with tanks surrounding them again, their goodbye messages reflect a harsh reality — the world may have seen their suffering, but it hasn’t acted. Motaz Azaiza, a 24-year-old photographer, initially wanted to show Gaza’s beauty. War shattered that dream. In an Instagram post, he said he won’t risk his life anymore, focusing on surviving. With exits blocked, he emphasizes how isolated they feel. Bisan, a resilient 25-year-old journalist, faces nightmares blending with reality. She holds the world accountable for supporting Israel. “We won’t forgive you,” she asserts, marking resilience. Ismail Jood, once vocal about Gaza, expresses weariness. In a farewell note, he condemns silence and envisions a more just world. His message: “Congratulations, people of Gaza, and on what’s coming.” Even Abod, a young journalist, is at a crossroads amid explosions, pleading, “The situation is enough, take it from...

  Dubai - The 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) climate summit is hosted in Dubai today with several new funding initiatives aimed at mobilizing greater private investment to tackle the climate crisis.  The United Arab Emirates announced the launch of a $30 billion climate investment venture called ALTRRA. The new fund aims to mobilize $250 billion globally by 2030 to support projects reducing emissions and adapting to climate impacts. UAE COP28 President Sultan Ahmed Al-Jaber said ALTRRA demonstrates the UAE's commitment to climate action and will be the "world's largest private investment vehicle" for the issue. In addition, multiple development banks and countries pledged new climate finance. The World Bank committed to increase its annual climate spending to 45% of total projects by 2024-25. Canada pledged $16 million to the new UN loss and damage fund, while France committed $100 million. Separately, the UK announced $2 billion for the Green Climate Fund.  New ...

  UAE's President, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, shared great news at the COP28 summit in Dubai by introducing a $30 billion fund to help with climate challenges. This fund, seen as a leadership move, underlines the UAE's dedication to supporting developing nations in their fight against the impacts of climate change. The goal is to use the $30 billion to encourage an extra $250 billion in climate investments by 2030, potentially aiding vulnerable countries in cutting emissions, increasing resilience, and recovering from climate disasters. Importantly, this fund addresses a key need for financial support, aligning with developing nations' requests for help in their climate actions. Observers are optimistic, thinking this announcement could set a positive tone for COP28 negotiations and lead to more significant commitments to control global temperatures. Overall, the climate fund signals the UAE's commitment and offers hope for a stronger global response to climat...