Latest news with #Yousuf
Dubai Eye
24-07-2025
- Politics
- Dubai Eye
UAE calls for immediate Gaza ceasefire, two-state solution at UN
In an address before the UN Security Council, the UAE strongly condemned the ongoing war in Gaza, describing it as "unprecedented in both scale and intensity" and marked by violence and grave violations of international law. The statement, delivered by the UAE's Acting Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Fatema Yousuf, aligned with the positions of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Arab Group, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement. The UAE denounced the continued Israeli blockade of Gaza, accusing Israel of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis by obstructing aid and targeting those attempting to deliver it. Highlighting its own humanitarian efforts under Operation Gallant Knight, the UAE outlined initiatives including food assistance, water desalination projects and the evacuation of wounded civilians for treatment in UAE hospitals. The UAE also expressed deep concern over what it described as a 'dangerous escalation' in the West Bank, citing settler violence, arbitrary arrests, and the expansion of illegal settlements. Speaking through a translator, Yousuf reiterated the UAE's position on Israeli actions at religious sites. The address concluded with four key demands. First, it called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, along with the release of all hostages, detainees and prisoners, while reaffirming support for mediation efforts led by Qatar, Egypt and the US. Second, it demanded an end to the blockade on Gaza and expressed full support for United Nations agencies - particularly UNRWA - in their humanitarian missions. Third, it urged a halt to any actions aimed at displacing Palestinians or altering the demographic composition of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Finally, the address stressed the need to revive the political process based on a two-state solution, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The UAE welcomed the announcement of a resumed international peace conference, to be co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, expressing hope that it would lead to tangible steps toward peace. At the UN Security Council Open Debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question, the UAE 🇦🇪 strongly condemned the ongoing violence and grave violations against civilians in Gaza, as well as the unjust blockade imposed by Israel, which has deepened… — UAE Mission to the UN (@UAEMissionToUN) July 24, 2025
TAG 91.1
24-07-2025
- Politics
- TAG 91.1
UAE calls for immediate Gaza ceasefire, two-state solution at UN
In an address before the UN Security Council, the UAE strongly condemned the ongoing war in Gaza, describing it as "unprecedented in both scale and intensity" and marked by violence and grave violations of international law. The statement, delivered by the UAE's Acting Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Fatema Yousuf, aligned with the positions of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Arab Group, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement. The UAE denounced the continued Israeli blockade of Gaza, accusing Israel of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis by obstructing aid and targeting those attempting to deliver it. Highlighting its own humanitarian efforts under Operation Gallant Knight, the UAE outlined initiatives including food assistance, water desalination projects and the evacuation of wounded civilians for treatment in UAE hospitals. The UAE also expressed deep concern over what it described as a 'dangerous escalation' in the West Bank, citing settler violence, arbitrary arrests, and the expansion of illegal settlements. Speaking through a translator, Yousuf reiterated the UAE's position on Israeli actions at religious sites. The address concluded with four key demands. First, it called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, along with the release of all hostages, detainees and prisoners, while reaffirming support for mediation efforts led by Qatar, Egypt and the US. Second, it demanded an end to the blockade on Gaza and expressed full support for United Nations agencies - particularly UNRWA - in their humanitarian missions. Third, it urged a halt to any actions aimed at displacing Palestinians or altering the demographic composition of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Finally, the address stressed the need to revive the political process based on a two-state solution, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The UAE welcomed the announcement of a resumed international peace conference, to be co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, expressing hope that it would lead to tangible steps toward peace. At the UN Security Council Open Debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question, the UAE 🇦🇪 strongly condemned the ongoing violence and grave violations against civilians in Gaza, as well as the unjust blockade imposed by Israel, which has deepened… — UAE Mission to the UN (@UAEMissionToUN) July 24, 2025
Muscat Daily
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Extra Toppings: Heartbeat of cinema
From the deserts to F1 circuit – this 'extra topping' added a unique shine to the big screen. 'We're all co-actors. Each person, even the ones in the shadows, add their own sheen to the final masterpiece,' says Yousuf al Housni who played an 'extra' in the latest Hollywood blockbuster F1 Muscat – In anything grand we often forget the 'extras'… Extra cheese always adds more flavour to pizza, extra leg space adds comfort in a long flight and an extra rose in a bouquet adds an extra smile from one's beloved. Extras add life and base to grandeur. The same note goes to the extra actors in movies. They act as the foundation of every war, disaster or romance on the silver screen. Without extras, even the best frames or best methodical acts would fall apart. Such is the story of a 'junior' actor from Oman, Yousuf al Housni. Movies are a world of glamour and power. People feel proud to be part of it in some small way. Yet there are many like the extras who feel apprehensive to say that. Often people ridicule or pass sly smirks. Yet for Omani actor Yousuf al Housni, being an extra was an honour — vocal and bold in stating that every participation in a film, big or small, deserves recognition. 'It's not about the size of the role,' he says, 'it's about the sincerity of the effort. I enjoy the process more than the appearance.' Recently, Yousuf made his appearance in the latest Hollywood blockbuster F1 – the Brad Pitt-led Formula One film – currently screening in cinemas worldwide. This marks his second appearance in a major international production following his earlier role in the sci-fi epic Dune 2 in 2024. Perseverance, patience The few seconds of presence in these globally celebrated films have transformed Yousuf — not just as an actor, but as a human being. 'What I learned on those sets is beyond cinema — it's about patience, endurance, and self-respect,' he reflects. One of his toughest experiences was shooting Dune 2 in the scorching desert of Abu Dhabi, where the mercury touched 40 degrees Celsius. 'We were around 600 people, including 30 extras from Egypt, Afghanistan and Syria. I was one of the 30 selected extras portraying soldiers of Javier Bardem's character,' he disclosed. Every extra wore a three-layered costume weighing over 5kg, and many also carried props — guns and gear weighing up to 10kg. The walk across the dunes was exhausting, and the discipline was almost military. 'You can't even visit the restroom easily. To undress and redress was too daunting a task,' he recalls. The patience was just as demanding — 'we'd wait for hours just for a one-second shot.' Sometimes, the shoot demanded such effort that people fell ill. 'It was challenging but we continued with the processes,' Yousuf shared. When one extra fell seriously ill, the production crew needed a last-minute replacement. And Yousuf was chosen to step in and play an elderly man. 'I was rushed into makeup and given the part. When I finished the shot, the whole unit clapped for me,' he says. 'Actors like Timothy Chalamet, Javier Bardem and Zendaya — they hugged the crew at the end. But what impressed me most was director Denis Villeneuve. Calm, focused — like a painter lost in his Muse and canvas.' No role is small Yousuf's F1 shoot, in contrast, was more relaxed. Shot over five days, Yousuf appeared as a VIP guest from Oman — a moment of great personal pride. 'I studied about F1 races before the shoot. Even as an extra, I wanted to be prepared,' he smiles. 'No role is small.' Two more Hollywood films featuring Yousuf are expected to release by the end of the year. For Yousuf, acting is both craft and lifestyle. 'Fitness is crucial — physically, mentally and spiritually,' he says. 'If you're slow or inattentive, you get replaced; and I never want that.' He continues to hone his skills by attending workshops in Oman and Abu Dhabi and has registered with international casting agencies. He was also featured in an Abu Dhabi Police cybersecurity awareness film, portraying a hacker — a role far from his spiritual, disciplined real-life self. 'It was challenging to play someone so opposite to myself,' he laughs. Yousuf began his acting journey in 2013 as a student at the College of Applied Sciences in Salalah, pursuing Management Studies and Accounting. As a boy, Yousuf was fascinated by action, wrestling, and martial arts — drawn to the world of Van Damme, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone. In 2017, he co-founded a YouTube channel with friends and began producing, writing, and acting in short films. His creations, Blood and Silent , earned accolades among film festivals and his community. He was also active in theatre, but over time realised he needed to study acting more deeply. Yousuf is not only an actor but also a director and his short film Empty had bagged three awards globally. 'Why I chose films' 'I began diving into acting techniques and film studies. I didn't just want to be an actor — I wanted to understand everything about cinema.' That passion led him to examine the technical aspects of filmmaking, differentiating the nuances between stage and screen. 'Theatre taught me to be subtle, while films demanded focus and detail. I realised I couldn't do all media simultaneously — so, I chose films.' Sometimes, fate throws open unexpected doors. During the pandemic, Yousuf had got a surprise Instagram message from a US-based director working on a film titled Alien Sniperess . The filmmaker needed a 30-second clip of a man stuck at home as his family is attacked by aliens. 'He sent the storyboard and lines. I created the scene in my garage with ketchup as blood. When the film released in the US, I saw my name in the credits as a supporting actor and second unit director. I was overwhelmed with joy', he said. Yousuf has also been active in the Scouts movement, and remains passionate about gym workouts, martial arts and fitness. His favourite actor is Christian Bale — 'not just for Batman, but for his ability to become any character, physically and mentally.' He also admires Ben Affleck and Brad Pitt, with Fight Club being a long-time inspiration. In terms of directors, his favourites include Christopher Nolan and James Gunn. 'Their visuals make me believe the punches, blood and explosions are real. That's the dedication I aim for.' One-inch barriers of subtitles Yousuf still remembers watching a show The Cobsy Show in Grade 3. 'I didn't understand the language — I just read subtitles. But then I realised cinema transcends language. Emotions don't need translation.' This resonates with what Bong Joon-ho famously said at the Oscars -14x] 'Once you overcome the one-inch barrier of subtitles, you'll discover amazing films.' Yousuf understood that truth long before it became a quote. He insists that on a shoot with celebrities, one doesn't need to show that he is fan but indeed a co-actor. 'We're all co-actors. Each person, even the ones in the shadows, add their own sheen to the final masterpiece,' he said. With conviction in his voice, he adds, 'I want to be the first Omani actor in a major international role. I want to direct, produce, and keep growing. I want to win an Oscar — not for fame, but to prove that hard work, silence, skills, knowledge, focus and sincerity can move mountains and create mesmerising storyboards.' For Yousuf al Housni, the extra is never just extra — it's the heartbeat of the scene. (Pictures by VK Shafeer)
Express Tribune
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Govt regulates Zaireen travel to Iraq, Syria, Iran
Pakistani pilgrims evacuated from Iran walk across the Pakistan-Iran border at Taftan, in Balochistan province on June 18, 2025. Photo: AFP Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf announced on Tuesday that the government had established an organised system for the pilgrims visiting Iraq, Syria, and Iran, who would be allowed through approved pilgrim operators. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, the minister revealed that the cabinet approved the system of organised pilgrim groups in 2021 to facilitate the travel but the process of registration could not be done in the last four years. Now, the system had been put in place. He explained that previously, there was no special system for the pilgrims traveling to Iraq, Syria, and Iran, and that a 'Salar' was appointed to handle the arrangements. However, with the new system, groups will be registered to provide a more streamlined and efficient experience for pilgrims. The minister announced that 1,413 applications were received for registration of the pilgrim operators, out of which 585 were cleared. After a rigorous shortlisting process, 50 pilgrim groups have completed all the stages and will be registered. Yousuf urged old pilgrim group applicants to submit their documents by July 31, while the new applicants could submit their applications by August 10. He said that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was currently in Iran to discuss the issue of pilgrims.
Express Tribune
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Sana Mir takes centre-stage with bell-ringing at Lord's
Ex-Pak women's cricket captain Sana Mir rings the bell on second day of the ICC World Test Championship Final between Australia and South Africa at Lord's. PHOTO: AFP Sana Mir, former captain of Pakistan's women's cricket team and a newly inducted ICC Hall of Famer, was given the honour of ringing the bell at Lord's on Thursday, marking the start of day two of the World Test Championship (WTC) final between Australia and South Africa. The ceremonial bell ringing, a cherished tradition at the 'Home of Cricket' since 2007, is performed by a notable former player to signal the commencement of daily play in a Test match. Sana took centre stage to perform the ritual ahead of the second day's play, symbolising the beginning of another action-packed day. Her appearance was met with warm applause from fellow cricketers, officials and spectators present at Lord's. The WTC final, contested between Australia and South Africa, continued under clear skies as Sana's symbolic gesture set the tone for another riveting day of red-ball cricket at the historic ground. Sana's bell-ringing honour came shortly after her induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, recognising her exceptional international career. She represented Pakistan in 226 matches and captained the side in over a hundred fixtures, becoming a trailblazer for women's cricket in the country. It is pertinent to mention that Sana was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame just days earlier, becoming the first woman cricketer from Pakistan to receive this honour. The former off-spinner, who served Pakistan cricket for nearly 15 years, is also only the 14th female cricketer globally to be included in the elite list. Overall, she is the eighth Pakistani cricketer to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of legends such as Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Javed Miandad, Abdul Qadir, Zaheer Abbas, Waqar Younis, and Hanif Mohammad. Mohammad Yousuf resigns from coaching duties Former Pakistan captain and renowned batter, Mohammad Yousuf, has stepped down from his coaching duties at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), concluding his latest association with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Sources confirmed that Yousuf submitted his resignation to the PCB earlier this week, citing personal commitments as the primary reason for his decision to leave. The 50-year-old, who was previously involved with the men's national team, had served as the batting coach during Pakistan's recent tour of New Zealand. Yousuf's appointment as NCA batting coach was aimed at nurturing the next generation of Pakistan's batters. Though the PCB has yet to release an official statement, insiders suggest Yousuf's departure was amicable, with the possibility of future collaboration left open. As the PCB continues to refine its coaching structure in light of upcoming international assignments, Yousuf's exit is expected to prompt further reshuffling within the development pathways at the NCA.
