05 Jan
Showbiz

Happy New Year!: Pakistani celebrities ring in 2026 with hope, big dreams

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Happy New Year!: Pakistani celebrities ring in 2026 with hope, big dreams

From heartfelt reflections to celebratory milestones, stars share the messages, lessons and optimism marking 2026 start

A collage of Pakistani star actors Ramsha Khan, Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan and Sonya Hussyn. — Instagram
A collage of Pakistani star actors Ramsha Khan, Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan and Sonya Hussyn. — Instagram

As the New Year rolled in with fireworks, festivities, and fresh hopes, Pakistani celebrities also joined the celebrations by sharing heartfelt messages with their fans.

Stars from the worlds of drama, film and music took a moment to reflect on the year gone by and welcome the one ahead.

Their messages ranged from cheerful wishes and gratitude-filled notes to thoughtful reminders about resilience, growth, and positivity, mostly based on the throwbacks to the past year.

Lets have a look at who posted what.

Superstar Mahira Khan posted a video containing small snippets of moments from the past year, from her time on shoots, promotion events, fan meetups and random day outs on the beach, to once again recall what went by in 2025.

In the caption, she wrote a long message that reflects on 2025 as an unexpectedly challenging yet transformative year. It speaks about learning that success can feel heavy, strength doesn’t always mean wellness, and that quiet grief and gradual change still matter.

She acknowledged staying too long in old patterns and versions of themselves, while realising that progress often comes through loosening, not breaking.

Overall, it was a note of growth and self-awareness, highlighting newfound strength, patience, and self-kindness. Though not fully ready for what lies ahead, the writer accepts change as necessary and expresses gratitude for moving forward with honesty and renewal.

Meanwhile, Urwa Hoccane made a simple post, containing pictures with her favourite people, her husband Farhan Saeed, sister Mawra and her husband Ameer Gilani.

Happy New Year!: Pakistani celebrities ring in 2026 with hope, big dreams

“Walking into 2026 with the love of my life and my favourite people! Couldn’t have asked for a better new year eve ! #HappyNewYear ya’ll!,” she wrote in the caption.

Renowned actor Ayeza Khan, however, posted just a selfie of herself with husband, Danish Taimoor, on her Instagram stories, with a prayer for strength in their love and bond with every passing year.

Then comes the Pakistani heartthrob, Hania Aamir, who although made the New Year post a couple of days ago, it was worth it as it contained the memories from the past year.

Like always, it was an uplifting post with fun moments, day outs and some very special trips, such as the Hania’s Hajj voyage.

The Mere Humsafar actor gave a simple caption to the post: “the white rabbit caught me this year”.

Pakistani singer Asim Azhar also made a long post, celebrating his first #1 song on the weekly charts, calling 2025 a life-changing year marked by viral success, global recognition, and record-breaking milestones for Pakistani music.

He reflected on a tough but rewarding journey of hard work, honesty, personal growth, gratitude to God and loved ones, and encourage trusting the process, ending with optimism and confidence heading into 2026.

Award-winning actor Sonya Hussyn’s message reflected on 2025 as a year of growth shaped by challenges, lessons, and meaningful connections.

It highlighted learning boundaries, choosing peace, and achieving major career milestones with international recognition.

Expressing gratitude to supporters and loved ones, Sonya looked ahead to 2026 with strength, clarity, and renewed purpose.

Meanwhile, Ramsha Khan’s note summed up 2025 as an emotional yet uplifting journey marked by growth, self-discovery, and transformation.

Balancing light moments with reflection, she looks ahead to a hopeful new chapter filled with fresh beginnings and optimism.

Moreover, actor Haris Waheed redefined love as self-first and empowering, celebrates individuality, intuition, and inner truth, and reframes solitude as strength.

In his New Year message, Waheed emphasised self-respect, avoiding unnecessary conflict, and realising that growth is about rediscovering oneself, moving forward with purpose and confidence.

Stylish Mawra Hoccane, however, posted the pictures from a friend’s mayon on New Year, but the message was on point for the occasion.

The caption of Mawra’s post reflected on 2025 as an emotional and love-filled year, marked by deeply personal and professional milestones, beginning and ending with weddings close to the heart, including her own marriage.

Filled with gratitude and emotion, the “Neem” actor warmly welcomes 2026 with hope, excitement, and faith.

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05 Jan
Showbiz

Mahira Khan reveals what scares her in latest interview

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Mahira Khan reveals what scares her in latest interview

Actor completes her 15 years in entertainment industry

Mahira Khan poses in her glamorous look with wearing stunning black dress in an undated. — Instagram/@Mahira Khan
Mahira Khan poses in her glamorous look with wearing stunning black dress in an undated. — Instagram/@Mahira Khan

Pakistan’s superstar Mahira Khan, after showing a stunning display of her talent on the big screen, is finally returning to television, but is “a little scared” of her return.

In an interview with CNN, the ‘Neelofer’ star revealed her gains and losses in her 15-year journey in the showbiz industry, which resulted in a lot of love, respect, and adoration.

“It’s going to be 15 years in this industry next year for me,” said Mahira,  adding, “now I’m going back to TV,” which she described as a bit scary for her.

“I’m a little scared about it, but I think that’s what’s exciting. That something is scaring me, you know.”

Talking about her and ‘Neelofar’ co-star Fawad Khan’s chemistry, which always shared different vibes to their viewers, the actress believes, “It’s a blessing that we have been given so much love and respect and adoration together.

“I think what we have in common is that we both are very respectful of each other’s space and our crafts,” she said, adding: “I’m a spontaneous actor, he is […] he has another kind of method, and we both understand each other’s beats.”

Mahira also recalled her student life when she was in the US state of California, saying: “I always credit America for all these years that I lived and worked in America, there’s a huge part of me and that time for me as a girl from Pakistan.”

The actress said she takes her son to America every summer and tells him about the memories she spent there. She believes those were her “very important years of life.”

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05 Jan
Featured, Sports

Bangladesh likely to move ICC for changing T20 World Cup venue over ‘security concerns’

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Bangladesh likely to move ICC for changing T20 World Cup venue over ‘security concerns’

BCB official denies commenting on Mustafizur Rahman’s release from Kolkata Knight Riders

Bangladesh players celebrate after Rishad Hossain bowled Indias Axar Patel during ICC Mens Champions Trophy, Dubai International Stadium, Dubai, United Arab Emirates on February 20, 2025. — Reuters
Bangladesh players celebrate after Rishad Hossain bowled India’s Axar Patel during ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, Dubai International Stadium, Dubai, United Arab Emirates on February 20, 2025. — Reuters

Bangladesh is considering approaching the International Cricket Council (ICC) to change the venue of the ICC Men’s T20I World Cup, citing security concerns, Bangladeshi media reported on Saturday.

Bangladeshi media cited a Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official, claiming that the decision regarding Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming mega event would be made by the ICC and that the Tigers could follow Pakistan’s footsteps of playing all matches in Sri Lanka instead of India, subject to the apex body’s approval.

The official added that the BCB will raise the matter before the ICC at the earliest.

However, the officials refrained from commenting on experienced left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s release from the Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, declaring it an internal matter.

“I cannot make any comment regarding the release of Mustafizur as this is their internal matter, but as far as taking part in the World Cup is concerned, it is an ICC event, and they will make the final call after taking everything into consideration,” the BCB official was quoted as saying.

However, earlier today, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia attributed the release of Mustafizur Rahman to ‘the unrest’ in the country over allowing a Bangladesh player to take part in IPL 2026, while announcing that it had instructed KKR to release Rahman.

Bangladesh, slotted in Group C, are scheduled to start their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against the West Indies on February 7 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, which will also host their next two group-stage fixtures against Italy and England on February 9 and 14, respectively.

Bangladesh’s last group-stage fixture against Nepal, however, is scheduled to be played at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on February 17.

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05 Jan
Sports, Top

Bondi shooting responders honoured at Sydney Ashes Test

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Bondi shooting responders honoured at Sydney Ashes Test

Biggest cheer came for Ahmed al Ahmed, who wrestled a gun from one of the attackers

Emergency service personnel and members of the public (C) who responded during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach acknowledge the crowd after receiving a guard of honour on day one of the fifth Ashes cricket Test match between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney on January 4, 2026. — AFP
Emergency service personnel and members of the public (C) who responded during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach acknowledge the crowd after receiving a guard of honour on day one of the fifth Ashes cricket Test match between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney on January 4, 2026. — AFP

SYDNEY: England and Australia’s cricket teams honoured at the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney on Sunday emergency service personnel and members of the public who responded during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach.

The on-field guard of honour ahead of the clash was accompanied by loud applause from the sold-out crowd.

The biggest cheer came when hero Ahmed al Ahmed, who ran towards one of the attackers and wrestled the gun from him, walked out.

Ahmed al Ahmed, the man who tackled and disarmed one of the Bondi Beach attackers, stands for the national anthems alongside other first responders after receiving a guard of honour for their service, on day one of the fifth Ashes cricket Test match between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney on January 4, 2026. — AFP
Ahmed al Ahmed, the man who tackled and disarmed one of the Bondi Beach attackers, stands for the national anthems alongside other first responders after receiving a guard of honour for their service, on day one of the fifth Ashes cricket Test match between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney on January 4, 2026. — AFP

Father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram are accused of targeting a Hanukkah event at the beach on December 14, not far from the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Fifteen people were killed and dozens were wounded in what authorities have described as an antisemitic terrorist attack.

Cricket Australia chief Todd Greenberg called it “a devastating tragedy”.

“The incredible acts of bravery by first responders and community members at the scene of the Bondi attack were a reminder of the spirit of community and self-sacrifice that unites us as a nation,” he said.

“Our thoughts remain with those affected by this devastating tragedy and as a sport we will continue to provide what support we can.”

Among those honoured were ambulance workers and police officers, surf lifesavers and Jewish community groups.

A heightened security operation is in place for the Test, with uniformed and mounted police, along with public order and riot squad officers patrolling the venue.

The measures mirror those for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, where specialist police were armed with semi-automatic rifles.

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05 Jan
Sports

Bangladesh will not play T20 World Cup matches in India

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Bangladesh will not play T20 World Cup matches in India

“We will not accept any insult to Bangladeshi cricket, cricketers,” says Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul

Indias Shubman Gill and KL Rahul shakes hands with Bangladesh players after Champions Trophy match in UAE, Dubai on February 20, 2025. — Reuters
India’s Shubman Gill and KL Rahul shakes hands with Bangladesh players after Champions Trophy match in UAE, Dubai on February 20, 2025. — Reuters
  • Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman released by IPL franchise.
  • Dhaka wants team’s T20 World Cup matches to be held in Sri Lanka.
  • Dignity, security of our cricketers are our top priorities: BCB chief.

DHAKA: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Sunday said that its national side will not travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026, expressing concern “over the overall circumstances” in the country.

Discussions over Bangladesh potentially refusing to play their T20 World Cup fixtures in India gained traction following the release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman by his Indian Premier League side amid growing tension between the two nations.

In a statement, the BCB said it had decided not to send its team to India, which is co-hosting the upcoming tournament with Sri Lanka.

“The Board reviewed the situation in detail, taking into account developments over the last 24 hours and expressed deep concern over the overall circumstances surrounding the participation of the Bangladesh National Team in matches scheduled to be played in India,” the cricket board added.

Citing growing concerns regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh contingent, the BCB said that the Bangladesh team will not play its games in India.

It added that it has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider relocating all of Bangladesh’s matches to a venue outside India.

The BCB said that such a measure was necessary to safeguard the safety of Bangladeshi players, team officials, and other stakeholders, and it looked forward to the ICC’s urgent response to their request.

The statement comes shortly after the country’s sports adviser, Asif Nazrul, said that the decision was taken in the context of the extreme communal policy of India’s cricket board.

“The board said that where a Bangladesh cricketer can’t play in India despite being contracted, the entire Bangladesh cricket team can’t feel safe to go to the World Cup,” Nazrul said.

“I have also instructed the board to request Bangladesh World Cup games to be held in Sri Lanka.”

Nazrul said he had ordered the BCB to write to the ICC.

“The board should inform that, where a Bangladeshi cricketer cannot play in India despite being contracted, the entire Bangladeshi cricket team cannot feel safe going to play in the World Cup,” he wrote.’

“I have also instructed the board to request that Bangladesh’s World Cup matches should be held in Sri Lanka.”

Dignity, security ‘top priority’

The T20 World Cup begins on February 7, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh are scheduled to play their four group matches in India.

Pakistan will play all their matches in Sri Lanka, part of a deal that allows both India and Pakistan to play at neutral venues in multi-nation tournaments.

Political relations between India and Bangladesh soured after a mass uprising in Dhaka in 2024 toppled then-prime minister Sheikh Hasina, a close ally of New Delhi.

India’s foreign ministry last month condemned what it called “unremitting hostility against minorities” in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s interim leader, Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, has accused India of exaggerating the scale of the violence.

BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul said the board were considering their options.

“The dignity and security of our cricketers are our top priorities, and we will take a decision at the appropriate time, keeping these in mind,” he told reporters late Saturday.

Mustafizur, who has previously played in the IPL for other teams, was snapped up at auction in December by Kolkata for more than $1 million.

But BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said that “considering recent developments” Kolkata had been “advised to release” the 30-year-old.

The 2026 IPL season begins on March 26.

Nazrul said he would also ask that the IPL be blocked by Bangladeshi broadcasters.

“I have requested the Information and Broadcasting Adviser to stop the broadcasting of the IPL tournament in Bangladesh,” he said.

Kolkata, majority-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, subsequently said that Mustafizur’s “release has been carried out following due process and consultations”.

The cricket row comes only days after tensions between the nations had appeared to have eased.

India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar visited Bangladesh last week, the most senior visit by an Indian official since the overthrow of Hasina.

On Friday, the BCB announced that India would go to Bangladesh for six white-ball matches in September.

Bangladesh will hold its first elections since the uprising on February 12.

T20 World Cup squad

Meanwhile, the BCB has announced it squad for the T20 World Cup with fast bowlers Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed leading the bowling attack at the event next month, while batter Jaker Ali was axed

Taskin, who has taken 106 wickets in 86 T20Is, returns to the team after missing their 2-1 series win over Ireland in December while he was competing in the Abu Dhabi T10 league.

Mustafizur and Taskin will spearhead a pace department which also includes Tanzim Hasan, Shoriful Islam and Mohammad Saifuddin, with Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed and Mahedi Hasan the spinners in the squad.

Litton Das will captain the team and will be tasked with putting runs on the board alongside Tanzid Hasan and Saif Hassan.

Jaker misses out after a poor 2025 in which he managed just 378 runs in 26 T20Is.

15-member lineup: Litton Das (captain), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hassan, Tawhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Shaif Uddin, Shoriful Islam

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05 Jan
Sports

Usman Tariq defends bowling action ahead of ILT20 final

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Usman Tariq defends bowling action ahead of ILT20 final

Spinner says he has been cleared twice in testing laboratories in Pakistan

Pakistans Usman Tariq practises ahead of their third T20I against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on November 1, 2025. — PCB
Pakistan’s Usman Tariq practises ahead of their third T20I against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on November 1, 2025. — PCB

Pakistan’s spin bowler Usman Tariq, who is facing allegations regarding his bowling action, defended himself ahead of the International League T20 final, emphasising that the action has been deemed clear twice by laboratories.

Tariq, a late addition to the Desert Vipers squad as a replacement for Noor Ahmed, made an immediate impact during the tournament’s business end.

In the qualifier play-off against MI Emirates, he claimed three crucial wickets, including the notable dismissal of Tom Banton, helping the Vipers secure a place in the final.

Following that dismissal, Banton appeared to suggest Tariq’s delivery was “thrown,” reigniting debate over the pacer-turned-spinner’s unconventional action.

The towering Pakistani spinner has faced similar accusations before, but emphasised that he has been cleared twice in testing laboratories in Pakistan.

According to cricket’s laws, a bowler’s arm can flex up to a maximum of 15 degrees during delivery. Tariq insists his action falls well within these limits, attributing the controversy to the unique structure of his elbow.

“There are two corners on my elbow which make it hard for me to straighten fully,” Tariq explained.

“As you can see from history, whenever spinners faced allegations of chucking, they went to the lab, tried to modify their action, and worked on the correct degree of flexion. That sometimes confuses spectators. I have undergone two official tests in Pakistan, and my action was cleared. Unlike others, I didn’t have to change anything. I was confident because I knew I was not throwing.”

He also addressed social media criticism, urging commentators to educate themselves before making accusations.

“If you don’t understand cricket and still comment or share opinions, illiteracy can kill knowledge. It’s better to understand the game first,” he said.

Tariq’s bowling style is certainly distinctive. He began playing tape-ball cricket in Pakistan as a fast bowler before switching to spin after an injury.

His success came quickly after he claimed a hat-trick in just his second game for Pakistan and has since won multiple T20 franchise titles.

Now, Tariq hopes to help the Desert Vipers win the ILT20 for the first time, after the team lost in two previous finals. Speaking on the Vipers’ podcast Vipers Voices, he reflected on handling the pressure of finals, saying: “ final-match pressure is always different. As a human, you feel it, but the skill lies in managing it.”

“Experience has taught me how to reduce pressure and back myself. The team management also plays a key role by creating a supportive environment,” he added.

Vipers captain Sam Curran praised the new recruit’s impact.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen him bowl on the field. He’s very unique and extremely skilful. We lost Noor earlier, and Usman has stepped in perfectly. We hope he can deliver the same in the final and continue to be a quality bowler for Pakistan in the future,” Curran said.

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05 Jan
Sports

Israr Khattak wins Karachi marathon

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Israr Khattak wins Karachi marathon

Over 6,500 runners, including international participants, take part in event

Participants run in world-class BYD Karachi Marathon that started from Nishan-e-Pakistan Park to Sea View Golf Club. — Reporter
Participants run in world-class BYD Karachi Marathon that started from Nishan-e-Pakistan Park to Sea View Golf Club. — Reporter

Israr Khattak won the world-class BYD Karachi Marathon, completing the full 42.1-kilometre race in 2 hours, 39 minutes, and 58 seconds.

The marathon started from Nishan-e-Pakistan Park and saw participation from thousands of runners, including women and children. Participants ran from Sea View to the Golf Club before returning to Nishan-e-Pakistan along the designated route.

Half-marathon runners completed one lap of the course, while participants in the full marathon completed two laps. In addition to the full and half marathons, the event also featured a 5-kilometre fun run and a 10-kilometre relay race.

Hamas Minhas secured second position in the full marathon, finishing the race in 2 hours, 48 minutes, and 59 seconds.

In the half-marathon, Muhammad Akhtar claimed first place by completing the race in 1 hour, 19 minutes, and 29 seconds. Ata-ul-Samad finished second, while Faizan Faizi secured third position.

The women’s full marathon was won by Sarah Lodhi, who completed the 42.1-kilometre distance in 3 hours, 33 minutes, and 28 seconds. Alycia Dias finished second in the same category.

In the women’s half-marathon, Kokab Sarwar secured first position by completing the race in 1 hour, 53 minutes, and 57 seconds. Rabia Naeem finished second, while Zoha Punawala claimed third place.

A total of 6,500 runners took part in the Karachi Marathon, including 1,000 women participants. The event also saw international participation, with 30 runners from 25 different countries competing in the race.

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05 Jan
Sports

Australian cricket great Damien Martyn out of coma in ‘miracle’

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Australian cricket great Damien Martyn out of coma in ‘miracle’

Ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist says Martyn “now able to talk and respond to treatment”

Australian Test great Damien Martyn in this undated photo. — AFP/File
Australian Test great Damien Martyn in this undated photo. — AFP/File

Australian Test great Damien Martyn has woken from an induced coma following meningitis, with ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist on Sunday calling it “a miracle”.

The 54-year-old Martyn, who played 67 Tests between 1992 and 2006 and 208 one-day internationals (ODIs), fell seriously ill late last month and was rushed to hospital.

The former batsman was diagnosed with meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

“It’s been an unbelievable turn of events in the last 48 hours,” Gilchrist said.

“He is now able to talk and respond to treatment.

“He has responded extraordinarily well since coming out of the coma to the point where his family feels it’s like some sort of miracle.”

Martyn is set to be moved out of intensive care at Gold Coast University Hospital.

A who’s who of cricket greats have over the past week posted messages of support, including former England skipper Michael Vaughan and Indian legends Ravichandran Ashwin and VVS Laxman.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousaf was among those who wished Martyn a speedy recovery.

“As a fellow cricketer, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time. Wishing you strength, courage, and a full recovery. The cricket world stands with you,” he wrote in a post on X.

Known as one of the game’s great strokemakers, Martyn became a key figure in Steve Waugh’s all-powerful Australian side, hitting 13 centuries and averaging 46.37.

He was also part of the Australia team that won the 2003 ODI World Cup, cracking 88 not out in the final against India in a match-winning partnership with Ricky Ponting.

Martyn retired in 2006 during the Ashes series and had kept a low profile since.

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05 Jan
Featured, World

North Korea fires ballistic missiles, condemns US strikes on Venezuela

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North Korea fires ballistic missiles, condemns US strikes on Venezuela

Missiles launched hours before South Korean President starts state visit to China on Sunday

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visiting a factory involved in making tactical guided weapons, at an undisclosed place in North Korea.— AFP
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visiting a factory involved in making tactical guided weapons, at an undisclosed place in North Korea.— AFP 
  • Tokyo says ballistic missiles launched from 900 to 950 km to East Sea.
  • Analysts say move a message to China not to boost ties with Seoul.
  • North Korea calls Venezuela “encroachment of sovereignty”.

North Korea launched ballistic missiles on Sunday, the day the leader of rival South Korea starts a state visit to China, Pyongyang’s chief ally, and just hours after the US attacked Venezuela.

The firings of at least two missiles, the country’s first in two months, further heighten global tensions after US President Donald Trump launched an assault in Venezuela in which President Nicolas Maduro was captured.

North Korea strongly denounced the US action, saying Washington “wildly violated the sovereignty of Venezuela” and the act shows “the rogue and brutal nature of the US”.

The North launched its missiles hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung began a state visit to China on Sunday in the hope of promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula during a summit with his counterpart Xi Jinping.

The launches from the capital Pyongyang into the sea between the Koreas and Japan represent “a message to China to deter closer ties with South Korea and to counter China’s stance on denuclearisation”, said Lim Eul-chul, a professor at the Institute for Far Eastern Studies in Seoul.

North Korea signals ‘we are different from Venezuela’

He said North Korea also wanted to send a message that “we are different from Venezuela” — as a nuclear and military power, ready to respond with “aggressive deterrence”.

Referring to North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un, Bong Youngshik, a visiting professor at Yonsei University, said: “After seeing what’s happening in Venezuela right now, the person who would be most afraid is Kim Jong Un.”

Seoul and Tokyo criticised the North’s missile launches.

South Korea’s presidential office said it had held an emergency security meeting and urged North Korea to cease “provocative acts that violate United Nations Security Council resolutions”.

Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the launches threaten the peace and security of the region and the international community.

“Our government lodged a strong protest with North Korea and strongly condemned it,” Koizumi said in a statement.

US forces for the Indo-Pacific said in a statement, “This event does not pose an immediate threat to US personnel or territory, or to our allies,” adding the US was consulting closely with its allies and partners.

Kim Jong Un flexing military muscles before party congress

The missiles, launched around 7:50 am (local time) on Saturday, flew about 900 km (560 miles), South Korea’s military said. Japan said there were at least two missiles that flew about 900 km and 950 km.

The last time Pyongyang tested a ballistic missile was on November 7.

On Saturday, Kim Jong Un called for more than doubling the production capacity of tactical guided weapons during a visit to a munitions factory, North Korea’s state media reported.

In recent weeks, Kim has made a series of visits to weapons factories, as well as to a nuclear-powered submarine, and has overseen missile tests ahead of this year’s Ninth Party Congress of the Workers’ Party, which will set out major policy goals.

South Korea expects Beijing to play a role in promoting peace on the Korean peninsula, said Wi Sung-lac, Lee’s security adviser, without elaborating on details of the summit agenda.

Lee’s agenda with Xi includes persuading China to facilitate dialogue with North Korea, experts say, at a time when North Korea has dismissed an outreach from Lee, who took office seven months ago.

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05 Jan
Top, World

Numerous teenagers among the dead identified in Swiss bar blaze: police

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Numerous teenagers among the dead identified in Swiss bar blaze: police

In total, police have identified 24 of those who died in blaze in mountain resort

A sign reading Compassion for the victims and their families, Rest in Peace, you are all our children is placed at a makeshift memorial outside the Le Constellation bar, after a deadly fire and explosion during a New Years Eve party in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland, January 3, 2026. — Reuters
A sign reading “Compassion for the victims and their families, Rest in Peace, you are all our children” is placed at a makeshift memorial outside the “Le Constellation” bar, after a deadly fire and explosion during a New Year’s Eve party in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland, January 3, 2026. — Reuters

Teenagers — as young as 14 and 15 — were among those who died in the New Year’s Eve bar fire that killed 40 people in Switzerland, police said on Sunday, as the Pope offered his sympathies to the victims and their families.

Police in Valais said they had identified 16 more of those who died in the blaze in Crans-Montana, one of the worst disasters in recent Swiss history.

The newly identified victims included 10 Swiss nationals, two Italians, one person with Italian-Emirati citizenship, one Romanian, one person from France and one from Turkiye, Valais police said. No names were released.

Hundreds of mourners attended a church service in the town on Sunday morning, where Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey said condolences had poured in from around the world, including from the Pope.

“Countless people join us — people whose hearts are broken,” Lovey told the service. “Many expressions of sympathy and solidarity reach us.

“Pope Leo XIV joins in our sorrow,” he added. “In a moving message, he expresses his compassion and his care for the victims’ families and strengthens the courage of all who are suffering.”

More victims identified

The youngest person identified so far is a 14-year-old Swiss girl, while two 15-year-old girls, also from Switzerland, were among the dead.

Ten of the other bodies identified on Sunday were teenagers aged 16 to 18, police said. Also identified were two Swiss men aged 20 and 31, and a French national aged 39.

In total, police have identified 24 of those who died in the blaze in the mountain resort.

Late on Saturday, police said two Swiss women aged 24 and 22, along with two Swiss men aged 21 and 18, had been identified.

The mother of a 16-year-old Swiss boy Arthur Brodard confirmed overnight that he was among those killed.

“Our Arthur has departed to party in heaven,” Laetitia Brodard-Sitre said on her Facebook page.

“Now we can start our mourning, knowing he is in peace,” she said.

National day of mourning

Switzerland will hold a national day of mourning on Friday, national president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday, with church bells ringing across the country and a minute’s silence planned.

“In this moment of reflection, everyone in Switzerland can personally remember the victims of the disaster,” Parmelin told newspaper Sonntagsblick.

The fire likely started when “fountain candle” sparklers were held aloft too close to the ceiling at the Constellation bar, the region’s chief prosecutor has said.

Some 119 people were injured, including many with severe burns, and several were transferred to burn units in hospitals across Europe. Work on identifying the dead and injured is continuing, the police said.

Two people who ran the bar are under criminal investigation on suspicion of offences including homicide by negligence, prosecutors said on Saturday.

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