ForeignApple TV+ is facing online boycott calls after announcing a series on Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. Social media users criticised the project’s timing and subject amid the war in Gaza.
PoliticsTTAP has denied reports of a rift with jailed PTI founder Imran Khan’s family, saying its alliance remains strong. The clarification came after recent remarks by Aleema Khan criticising PTI leadership and reports linking the opposition alliance’s absence from a meeting to her comments.
Arts / EntertainmentAli Gul Pir, Roma Riaz and Naina Black spoke on Nida Yasir’s show about colourism, social bias linked to skin tone and the need to challenge harmful beauty standards.
NATIONALHajj flight operations from Pakistan have begun, with the first batch of 160 pilgrims departing from Karachi. PIA will start its Hajj flights on April 19 and plans to transport more than 55,000 pilgrims.
WorldThe US has extended a waiver allowing seaborne purchases of Russian oil through May 16 as Washington seeks to ease pressure on global energy markets during the Iran conflict. The move drew criticism from US lawmakers and some Western allies.
WorldTurkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Israel was using security as a pretext to occupy more land. Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, he said Israel’s actions reflected ongoing occupation and expansionism in the region.
SportsPeshawar Zalmi have qualified for the PSL 11 playoffs after Quetta Gladiators beat Lahore Qalandars in Karachi. Zalmi lead the table with 13 points from seven matches and remain unbeaten in the tournament.
NATIONALThe government has reduced the price of diesel by Rs32.12, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office. The PMO said the rate was cut from Rs385.54 to Rs353.43 after approval by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
SportsQuetta Gladiators restricted Lahore Qalandars to 140-8 in their PSL 11 match in Karachi. Usman Tariq and Jahandad Khan took three wickets each, while Sikandar Raza scored 52 for Lahore.
NATIONALUS President Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir after a reported breakthrough tied to Iran’s announcement on the Strait of Hormuz. In a Truth Social post, he called them two fantastic people.
Arts / EntertainmentRiz Ahmed’s short film The Bait is accompanied by a soundtrack that, according to Dawn, celebrates South Asian music and identity. The project brings together regional sounds and artists as part of the film’s broader cultural vision.
NATIONALThe Lahore High Court has upheld the federal government’s policy of monetising free electricity units for Wapda and power company officers. The court ruled the benefit was a service perk, not a statutory right.
