A massive cyberattack targeted X (formerly Twitter), causing widespread outages across Asia, Europe, and North America. The disruption began early Monday, with users unable to access the platform for extended periods. According to Downdetector, a website that tracks service disruptions, reports of inaccessibility surged, affecting thousands of users.

Musk suggests Ukrainian involvement

Elon Musk, in an interview with Fox News, alleged that the attack had digital traces linked to Ukraine. “We’re not sure exactly what happened, but there was a massive cyberattack to try to bring down the X system with IP addresses originating in the Ukraine area,” he stated.

Musk further supported his claim by sharing a post from an X account named DogeDesigner, which suggested the attack was part of a campaign against him. The post linked the cyberattack to recent protests against Musk’s leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and acts of vandalism at Tesla facilities.

Speculation over nation-state involvement

The billionaire speculated that the attack required “tremendous resources” and could be the work of a nation-state or a large, coordinated group. Speaking to Fox Business, he elaborated that the computers involved in the attack had digital footprints linked to Ukraine. However, cybersecurity experts warn that attributing attacks solely based on IP addresses is unreliable, as attackers often mask their locations to mislead investigations.

X faces continued technical struggles

During the peak of the outage, more than 40,000 users reported connectivity issues. While X worked to restore services, many users continued experiencing intermittent disruptions.

Since Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of Twitter in 2022, X has significantly reduced its workforce, leading to an increase in technical issues. Additionally, Musk’s decision to reinstate previously banned accounts, including those known for spreading conspiracy theories, has drawn criticism from advocacy groups.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing severe criticism for not having a single representative present during the Champions Trophy 2025 final presentation ceremony in Dubai. As India secured the title by defeating New Zealand by four wickets, the post-match podium was shared by International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Roger Binny, secretary Devajit Saikia, and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) director Roger Twose.

No PCB presence despite being the host nation

Notably, PCB chief operating officer Sumair Ahmed, who also served as the tournament director, was present in Dubai but was not invited onto the stage for the trophy presentation. According to a report by Telecom Asia Sport, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi did not travel to Dubai due to his commitments as Pakistan’s interior minister. He had informed the ICC about his absence, citing his engagement in a joint parliamentary session in Islamabad, where President Asif Zardari was addressing the nation.

Shoaib Akhtar questions PCB’s absence

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar expressed his disappointment on social media over the PCB’s absence from the stage.

“India has won the ICC Champions Trophy today, but I noticed something strange. Pakistan were the hosts in the tournament, but there were no Pakistan Cricket Board representatives here (at the trophy presentation). This is beyond my understanding. Why was there no one to represent us and give the trophy? Please think about it; it’s a world stage, but sadly I could not see any PCB members. Feeling very down to see that,” said Akhtar in a video posted on X.

Speculations over PCB’s decision

Some former Pakistan cricketers have suggested that the absence of PCB officials at the ceremony could be misinterpreted in India, making it appear as though the PCB chairman avoided the event because of India’s triumph. This speculation has further fueled the controversy.

Pakistan’s poor campaign in its home tournament

The 2025 Champions Trophy was significant for Pakistan, as it was their first ICC event at home in 29 years. However, the hosts had a disappointing campaign, crashing out in the group stage after defeats to New Zealand and India.

While the ICC holds authority over selecting dignitaries for the podium, the exclusion of a PCB representative despite Sumair Ahmed’s presence has raised many eyebrows. The matter has sparked debate within Pakistan’s cricket fraternity, with many questioning the board’s decision-making in such a high-profile global event.

US President Donald Trump has reached out to Iran’s leadership, expressing his willingness to negotiate a nuclear agreement. In an interview with Fox Business Network broadcast on Friday, Trump revealed that he sent a letter on Thursday, urging Iran to consider discussions.

“I said I hope you’re going to negotiate, because it’s going to be a lot better for Iran,” Trump stated, emphasizing that diplomatic efforts could be more beneficial for the country.

The letter, reportedly addressed to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, signals the US administration’s push to prevent further nuclear development. Trump stressed the urgency of negotiations, adding, “I think they want to get that letter. The other alternative is we have to do something, because you can’t let another nuclear weapon.”

The White House has yet to officially confirm the details of the letter or its contents.

Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov engaged in discussions with Iranian Ambassador Kazem Jalali, focusing on international efforts to address Iran’s nuclear situation. The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed these discussions on Friday, highlighting the ongoing global concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.