The Most Sanctioned Countries Worldwide
Sanctions have been used as a popular tool by the international community to pressure countries. Since its invasion of Ukraine in 2023, Russia has become the most sanctioned country in the world. Other sanctioned states include Iran, North Korea, Syria, and Belarus.
Myanmar’s Turbulent Journey Through a History of Coups and Resilience
In the archives of Myanmar’s rich and intricate history, the chapters detailing military coup d’état echo with a jarring blend of resistance, power, and resilience.
Today, we find a nation that has weathered the intense storms of terror, staging revolts while standing resilient amongst the changing winds.
The military coup in the state of Myanmar took place in 2021, bringing forth the horrors of its past. Ayra Azhar attempts to navigate Myanmar’s intricate past, unveiling the shadows of its military rule while igniting the flickering flames of democracy.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
“Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari takes us through a brief history of humankind, its evolution, and the revolutions that have occurred.
The author has divided the book into four major, giving detailed insight into each section. The first section of the book sheds light on the role of cognitive revolution in securing the existence of Homo sapiens.
The second and third sections of the book discuss the signficance of both the agricultural revolution and globalization.
The last part of the book highlights the scientific revolution and its impact on the lives of Homo sapiens.
The Red Heifer and the Third Temple
Abu Obaida of Al-Qassam Brigades linked the arrival of red heifers to the October 7 attacks, showcasing the intertwining of politics and religion.
The historical significance of Palestine, especially Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, underscores religious and geopolitical tensions.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, once seen as purely political, is now viewed religiously. The quest for a pure red cow, crucial in Jewish prophecy for the Third Temple, exemplifies this.
Muhammad Hamza Tanvir breaks down the Jewish prophecy and its implications for the followers of Abrahamic religions.
Eid Across the Globe
Eid-ul-Fitr is a three-day religious holiday celebrated at the end of Ramazan by Muslims worldwide. Different countries have their own unique traditions, rituals, and clothing for this auspicious day.
Pakistan, UAE, Turkey, Indonesia, and Canada, all celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with fervor, zeal, and jubilation.
Pakistan and Its Obsession with the CSS Exam
Pakistan’s Central Superior Services (CSS) exams are highly competitive and aim to recruit talented individuals for various government departments.
Maidah Tariq notes that the exams have evolved since Pakistan’s independence, encompassing a wide range of subjects to reflect the country’s administrative and socio-political needs.
Nowadays, everyone wants to apply for CSS exam. Why is it so?
[Video] The BDS Movement Against Israel
The war in Gaza has led to over 33,000 Palestinian deaths, prompting the BDS movement to boycott pro-Israel brands and products. This movement has caused significant losses for companies like Starbucks and McDonald’s.
Our video this week presents an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of boycotting pro-Israel brands.
A Guide to Applying for the British Council’s IELTS Test in Pakistan
Are you interested in going abroad? Whether it’s to study, for work, or simply to live overseas, you’ll come across the IELTS test. We’ve created a comprehensive guide for you to help you apply for the IELTS exam, a popular English language test of the British Council.
Pakistan: Search for Stability by Dr. Maleeha Lodhi
Pareesa Memon outlines the accomplishments and publications of Dr. Maleeha Lodhi, a prominent figure in Pakistan’s diplomatic landscape. Her review of Dr. Lodhi’s book “Pakistan: Search for Stability,” focuses on Pakistan’s political, economic, and social challenges.
The book highlights the issues such as the disengaged youth, current account deficit, climate change, and more. It concludes with recommendations and solutions for said issues, including governance reforms, economic revival, youth engagement, and the strengthening of local governments.
Major Powers’ Interests in IOR And Implications For the Region
The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is a critical area of focus for global powers due to its economic significance, strategic chokepoints, and natural resources.
The US, China, and India are vying for dominance in the region, with new alliances and military bases being established to safeguard their interests. China and India are expected to be major engines of growth.
The complex interdependence and potential threats in the IOR necessitate constructive dialogue and a balanced approach to regional security.
Understanding Your WAPDA Electricity Bill
Understanding consumer electricity bills is a fundamental necessity for most Pakistanis. Maidah Tariq delves into effectively reading and managing your WAPDA electricity bill amidst the rampant corruption in the institution. She also provides recommendations to help consumers lower their electricity bills.
Terror Attacks in Pakistan: Role of Afghanistan in Promoting Instability
Since the American withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has consistently voiced its concern regarding the neighboring country’s harboring of terrorists. The recent surge in terror attacks in Pakistan, Iran, and Russia has reignited this concern, prompting questions about American interests in fostering instability in the region.
Kafala System: Violating the Rights of Migrant Labor in the Middle East
Migrant labor plays a crucial role in the global workforce, contributing significantly to host countries’ economies.
However, they encounter various obstacles such as low pay, discrimination, and infringements of their labor and human rights, notably through the kafala system in the Middle East.
Khizra Rashad takes the example of Qatar’s FIFA World Cup controversy to illustrate the widespread mistreatment and exploitation experienced by migrant workers in many Middle Eastern countries.
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto: An Autocrat Disguised As a Democrat
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, often celebrated as a great democrat, exhibited authoritarian tendencies during his time in power. After refusing to accept election results in 1971, he made threatening statements and demonstrated a power-hungry attitude.
Hadiqa Maryam Abbasi is of the view that Bhutto and his government’s oppressive actions in Balochistan, including military operations and crackdowns on opposition parties, further showcased his autocratic leadership.
Bhutto’s regime also saw the arrest and banning of prominent leaders, undermining the democratic values he purported to uphold.
The Third Anglo-Afghan War (1919)
The Third Anglo-Afghan War broke out after Amanullah Khan declared Afghanistan’s independence from Great Britain. Amanullah’s background, motivations for war, geo-strategic aspects, and religious and tribal relationships were significant factors leading to the outbreak of the war.
Amina Iqbal notes that the war resulted in Afghanistan gaining full sovereignty over its national machinery and led to the signing of a peace treaty in 1919.
[Video] Is Saudi Arabia Recognizing Israel?
This video examines a potential historic shift in the Middle East—Saudi Arabia’s potential recognition of Israel. Driven by American efforts for regional stability, the normalization of Saudi-Israel relations will have both benefits and consequences for the region, particularly for Palestine.
Russia’s War in Ukraine: Shrouded in Western Hypocrisy
In his analysis, Lt Gen (R) Tariq Khan discusses the glaring hypocrisy of the West amid Russia’s war with Ukraine. He highlights the stark contrast in Western response, noting that despite its apathy towards conflicts in Iraq, Palestine, and Bosnia, the West has now decided to raise its voice for Ukraine simply because it’s considered “civilized,” unlike the others. The author critiques Western involvement and its portrayal of Ukraine as a victim, while predicting a grim future for the country. He emphasizes the need for a fairer global order based on equality and justice.