Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has approved a 25% salary hike for soldiers and officers following India's Operation Sindoor, according to intelligence sources cited by India Today. The revised package includes a 25% increase in ad hoc relief allowance, a threefold rise in disturbance allowance, and doubled benefits under cash-in-lieu, uniform and batman allowances. The move is reportedly aimed at boosting troop morale, welfare and operational readiness after internal military reviews following the conflict. Despite Pakistan's economic challenges, the enhanced pay structure has been implemented with immediate effect. Pakistan has publicly portrayed the conflict as a strategic success, while General Munir was later promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. (PC: Startup Pakistan)

Pakistan's military has reportedly approved a 25% salary increase for its personnel, with reports suggesting the move is intended to boost troop morale following the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. The pay hike is expected to benefit officers and soldiers across the armed forces as part of broader welfare measures. While officials have presented the increase as support for military personnel amid economic challenges, reports indicate morale concerns influenced the decision. The development comes as Pakistan continues to grapple with financial pressures, raising questions about the fiscal impact of increased defence spending alongside the country's ongoing economic recovery efforts. (PC: X)

Denmark's government has proposed a nationwide ban on broadcasting the Islamic azaan through loudspeakers, arguing that public spaces should remain free from religious calls amplified over sound systems. The proposal has sparked intense political and public debate over religious freedom, integration, and national identity. Supporters say the measure promotes social cohesion and equal treatment of all religions, while critics argue it unfairly targets Muslims and restricts religious expression. The debate follows comments from some politicians expressing concerns about demographic and cultural changes. If approved, the legislation would prohibit amplified azaan broadcasts across Denmark while allowing prayers to continue inside mosques. (PC: X)

Iran has proposed a new transit fee system for commercial ships passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, aiming to generate up to $40 billion annually. Tehran is seeking support from China and Gulf nations, arguing the charges would fund maritime security, safety, and environmental services. The proposal follows the reopening of the waterway under a ceasefire agreement and includes discussions on a regional management framework. However, the plan faces resistance from the United States and several Gulf countries, which argue that international maritime law does not permit such transit tolls on the globally significant shipping route. 

A pet cat in British Columbia, Canada, has gone viral after fearlessly chasing a black bear out of its family's backyard. Security camera footage captured the surprising moment as the cat boldly confronted the much larger animal, forcing the startled bear to retreat over a fence. The unusual encounter amazed residents and wildlife experts, who cautioned that such outcomes are rare and should not encourage people to let pets confront wild animals. Authorities reminded the public to secure garbage, remove attractants and maintain a safe distance from bears, as wildlife sightings increase during warmer months across British Columbia.

Dubai has announced the return of its "Our Flexible Summer" initiative, allowing many government employees to enjoy a four-day work week during the peak summer months. Beginning June 29, participating government entities will adopt flexible schedules, with some employees receiving Fridays off, creating a three-day weekend. The programme, now in its third year, aims to improve employee well-being, enhance work-life balance, and maintain productivity during the intense summer heat. Authorities said departments may also implement flexible hours and remote work arrangements based on operational needs, reflecting Dubai's continued focus on modern, employee-friendly workplace policies. 

At least 164 people have died and nearly 1,000 have been injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, triggering more than 30 aftershocks that continue to threaten rescue efforts. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as thousands remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said emergency teams are working across the worst-hit areas while schools, courts and the country's main airport remain closed. International rescue teams and humanitarian aid are arriving from several countries, including the US, France and Germany. Experts warned that ongoing aftershocks have made search and rescue operations extremely dangerous. (PC: HT)

Global oil prices have fallen to their lowest levels since before the Iran conflict, as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz gradually returns to normal. Brent crude briefly dropped below $72.50 a barrel after the US and Iran agreed to begin negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. More oil tankers and cargo ships are now passing through the key trade route following initial peace talks and partial easing of US sanctions on Iranian oil exports. Despite lower crude prices, fuel costs remain high in several countries, prompting calls for energy companies to pass on savings to consumers. (PC: BBC)

Residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) are facing growing shortages of food, fuel and medicines as anti-government protests continue across the region. Local residents, truck drivers and opposition leaders have alleged that Pakistani authorities are restricting the movement of essential supplies to weaken the protest movement. Pakistan has denied imposing any blockade, saying supplies are continuing. The unrest began over a dispute involving reserved legislative seats and has led to widespread shutdowns, transport disruptions and clashes. Reports indicate thousands have joined protests, while rescue and relief efforts remain affected by the ongoing disruption to supply chains. (PC: India Today)

King Charles met exiled Afghan women cricketers at Clarence House in London, expressing support for athletes forced to flee Afghanistan after the Taliban banned women from sports and education. The players, now based mainly in Australia, are in England for exhibition matches during the Women's T20 World Cup. The King praised their determination, saying he was glad they could continue pursuing cricket. Players said the meeting was a powerful message of hope for Afghan women still living under Taliban restrictions. The team continues to seek official recognition while raising awareness of the challenges faced by women in Afghanistan.