Usman Khawaja boycotts media outlet over Gaza row, cites principles, free speech
Bridgetown: Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has refused to engage with leading sports broadcaster SEN during the ongoing Test series in the Caribbean, citing the outlet’s dismissal of veteran journalist Peter Lalor earlier this year over his social media posts about the Israeli attacks on Palestine.
The incident occurred after the first day of the Test match against the West Indies, where Khawaja scored 47 runs in Australia's first innings total of 180. When approached for a post-match interview, he declined upon noticing the SEN microphone and informed reporters Adam Collins and Bharat Sundaresan of his decision.
Peter Lalor was terminated by SEN during Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka in February, after he tweeted about Israeli airstrikes and Palestinian prisoners while covering a Test in Galle. Reacting to Khawaja’s gesture, Lalor said, “Usman is a man of principle whose support I valued greatly when I was dismissed, and whose ongoing support I appreciate.”
Khawaja, who has consistently spoken out on global human rights issues, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, has previously worn a black armband during the Perth Test and attempted to wear shoes bearing the messages “freedom is a human right” and “all lives matter” during the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan. However, both Cricket Australia and the International Cricket Council (ICC) barred him from doing so.
Speaking about the controversy, Khawaja said, “It’s just a little bit disappointing. I don’t really see the controversy in saying ‘all lives matter’ or ‘freedom is a human right’. I find it hard to accept that people find those words distasteful.”
Reflecting on his stance, he added, “It’s been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster… but I’ll always stand up for what I believe in, even if people don’t agree with me. I want to look back on my career and say I stood by my values—not just for what I did on the field, but for what I stood for off it. That means more to me.”
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Indian Defence forces committed to adapting to changing environment: CDS General Chauhan
Hyderabad (PTI): Asserting that war and warfare is at the cusp of a major revolution, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Saturday said the Indian Defence forces are committed to adapting to changing environment and imbibing reforms to remain ready and relevant.
Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of 216 Course held at the Air Force Academy at Dundigal near here, General Chauhan said India's strength rests on robust institutions, democratic stability, and unwavering professionalism of our Armed Forces.
He said the intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindoor continues.
"You (new officers) also join the Air Force at a moment when a new normal has firmly taken shape. An era defined by a high degree of operational preparedness, 24-7, 365 days. The intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindhur continues," he said.
He further said the newly trained officers are entering the Indian Air Force during a phase of deep transformation of the Indian Armed Forces.
Integrated structures, joint operations, and national pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence are shaping the future of India's military strength, he said.
"Your journey ahead will be accordingly guided by Jai, the first word of Jai Hind, that's victory. 'J' stands for jointness, fighting as one nation, one force. 'A' stands for Atmanirbhar Bharat, trusted platforms and systems made not just for India but for the world. And finally, 'I' for innovation, daring to think ahead and to be ahead of the curve," he explained.
General Chauhan further said battles in the older domains will always remain contested, often brutal. But in the new domains, they will be smart, swift, and shaped by intellect, innovation, and initiative. The force that masters new frontiers is more likely to prevail in future conflicts.
