The southern Syrian city of Suweida is reeling from a devastating wave of sectarian violence and alleged government brutality that has claimed more than 590 lives over the past five days. The violence erupted last Sunday following the abduction of a Druze merchant near Damascus, igniting clashes between the Druze and Bedouin communities. Eyewitness accounts reveal scenes of horror and fear, as residents grapple with the aftermath of intense conflict.

Violence and Brutality Unfold

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, at least 594 individuals have died, including 154 Druze civilians. The monitoring group alleges that government forces executed 83 Druze civilians, while Druze fighters retaliated by killing three Bedouin men. As tensions escalated, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa deployed security forces to restore order, but many residents accuse these forces of looting, burning homes, and targeting unarmed civilians.

Residents like Rima, a 45-year-old woman who spoke anonymously, described the chaos. “There were bodies everywhere outside our building,” she recounted in a phone interview. “Armed forces went door-to-door, targeting civilians and looting homes. We kept waiting for people to come into our house and decide whether we should live or die.”

Another resident, Nayef, a government employee, echoed her sentiments, stating, “They looted wealthy homes, killed people, and left bodies lying outside for days.” Videos circulating online corroborate these claims, showing armed men shooting kneeling civilians and humiliating Druze elders. The United Nations Human Rights Office confirmed that at least 13 individuals were killed during a family gathering, with reports of six men executed near their homes by individuals linked to the Syrian government.

Government Response and Local Sentiment

In a televised address, President Sharaa vowed to protect the Druze community and punish those responsible, attributing the violence to “outlaw groups.” Nonetheless, many locals remain skeptical. “It’s all lip-service,” Nayef remarked. “They speak of freedoms and accountability, but they are all lies.”

Public opinion is divided regarding Israel’s involvement in the conflict. Some residents credit Israeli airstrikes with preventing further massacres, while others express deep mistrust. “Nobody wants Israel. We are patriotic people,” Nayef emphasized, reflecting the complex feelings surrounding foreign intervention, even when it is framed as protective.

As power remains out and internet access is disrupted, the people of Suweida are left in a state of despair. The heavy death toll has not only shattered the community physically but has also fostered a growing sense of abandonment and betrayal among the residents.

A growing trend among health-conscious individuals is reshaping traditional baking: the replacement of butter cookies with oats and banana cookies. This simple yet effective swap not only reduces saturated fat intake but also introduces beneficial nutrients and natural sweetness into the diet.

Health Benefits of Oats and Bananas

Oats are a powerhouse of dietary fiber, particularly rich in beta-glucan, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. They also provide essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc, contributing to overall well-being. Incorporating oats into cookie recipes enhances their nutritional profile, offering a slow release of energy due to their complex carbohydrates. This characteristic makes them an excellent choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Bananas, on the other hand, serve as a natural sweetener in baking, effectively eliminating the need for added sugars. They are high in vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin B6, and rich in potassium, which is known to support heart health. When added to cookies, bananas not only enhance moisture and flavor but also do so without the inclusion of artificial preservatives or excessive sugar.

Making the Swap

Traditional butter cookies are often high in saturated fats from butter or margarine. By substituting oats and bananas, individuals can significantly decrease their intake of unhealthy fats. This change not only promotes better heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels but also maintains the delicious taste that cookie lovers crave, thanks to the wholesome ingredients.

Adapting your favorite cookie recipes to include oats and bananas is straightforward. One can replace half or all of the butter with mashed bananas, which adds moisture without contributing extra fat. Additionally, substituting some of the flour with rolled oats increases fiber content while preserving the texture of the baked goods.

Incorporating these healthful ingredients into your baking routine can lead to more nutritious snacks that cater to both taste and wellness. Embracing this shift may not only satisfy a sweet tooth but also foster healthier eating habits, making it a worthwhile change for those looking to enhance their culinary creations.

A 27-year-old man, identified as Sridhar Kumar, has been arrested in Hyderabad following allegations of rape and cheating made by a woman he met on Instagram. The incident has drawn attention to the dangers of online relationships, particularly those that involve promises of marriage.

The woman, a 26-year-old resident of Suryapet district, reported to the Madhuranagar police that Kumar exploited her under the pretext of marriage. She had relocated to Hyderabad in search of employment when she connected with Kumar on the social media platform. After becoming friends, Kumar proposed marriage, which the woman accepted.

Over time, the couple met several times, during which Kumar allegedly sexually exploited her. According to her statement, when the woman pressed Kumar about their marriage plans, he began to avoid her and ultimately refused to fulfill his promise. Furthermore, he allegedly threatened her, claiming he would release private photos and videos if she disclosed any details of their relationship.

Following her complaint lodged on July 18, 2025, the Madhuranagar police initiated a case against Kumar, categorizing it under both rape and cheating. Authorities are actively searching for Kumar to ensure he faces the appropriate legal consequences.

This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding online interactions and the potential for manipulation in digital relationships. As investigations continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of caution when engaging with individuals met through social media platforms.

Arshad Nadeem, the first Pakistani athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field, has voiced his disappointment with the government for failing to fulfill promises made following his historic victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 28-year-old javelin thrower made headlines last August when he achieved a remarkable throw of 92.97 metres at the Stade de France, securing gold and defeating India’s Neeraj Chopra, who won silver.

The achievement was celebrated nationwide, with both federal and provincial governments, along with private organizations, announcing substantial rewards for Nadeem. These included significant cash prizes and promises of land plots. However, in a recent interview with The Indian Express, Nadeem revealed that while he has received all promised cash awards, the land plot commitments have not materialized. “Out of all the prize announcements made for me, all the plot announcements were fake, which I did not receive. Apart from that, I have received all the cash prizes that were announced,” he stated.

Frustration Echoes Across the Nation

Nadeem’s grievances resonate deeply in Pakistan, particularly given his humble origins. Raised in Mian Channu, a small town in Punjab, he comes from a modest background, with his father working as a construction worker and providing for the family. This context amplifies the disappointment felt by many who supported Nadeem during his journey to Olympic glory.

As Nadeem prepares for future competitions, he remains focused on his training. He is gearing up for the World Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place in Tokyo this September. “My entire focus is on myself, but apart from that, we train any youth who comes to us for training, and this training is given by my coach Salman Butt,” he shared.

Upcoming Competitions and Rivalries

Prior to the World Championships, fans can anticipate another exciting chapter in the rivalry between Nadeem and Chopra. The two athletes are set to compete at the Diamond League meet in Silesia, Poland, on August 16. This upcoming competition will not only showcase their athleticism but also reignite public interest in their ongoing rivalry, as both athletes strive for supremacy on the international stage.

Nadeem’s situation highlights broader issues regarding the treatment of athletes in Pakistan and the importance of governmental support in fostering sporting talent. As he continues to train and compete, Nadeem remains a symbol of hope and determination for many aspiring athletes in the country.