Afghan Taliban officials said renewed clashes on Wednesday came after a temporary Eid ceasefire expired, killing at least two civilians in eastern Afghanistan, while each side accused the other of starting the exchange.

That has not stopped Islamabad from making a conspicuously public play for a role in the Middle East crisis.

Since the US-Israel war on Iran began on Feb. 28, Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership have been engaging what one of the source reports described as “regional and friendly countries” while repeatedly calling for de-escalation. 

Foreign Office spokesman Tahir Andrabi said earlier this week that Pakistan remained committed to resolving the conflict “through diplomatic means and engagements,” even as he urged the media to avoid speculation.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally offered Islamabad as a venue for talks between Iranian and US officials, saying Pakistan stood “ready and honoured” to host “meaningful and conclusive talks” if both sides agreed. 

Sharif tagged President Donald Trump, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US special envoy Steve Witkoff. The idea of Islamabad hosting talks had in fact come from Washington, reporters revealed. Trump later shared Sharif’s post on Truth Social.

A messenger to Tehran

Pakistan’s role has not been limited to offering conference rooms.

Washington had sent a peace proposal to Tehran through Pakistan, with Reuters and the New York Times naming Islamabad as the messenger. A senior Iranian official told Reuters that either Turkey or Pakistan was being considered as a possible venue if talks advanced. 

Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, added to the speculation when he said he thought talks could take place in Islamabad over the weekend, though he stressed nothing had been settled.

Pakistani officials then moved from hint to confirmation, though not all the way to clarity. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on X on Thursday that “indirect US-Iran talks” were taking place through messages relayed by Pakistan. He added that the United States had shared 15 points that Iran was considering. 

But he stopped short of saying Pakistan would definitely host any face-to-face meeting. Andrabi did the same in his weekly briefing, insisting this was a “process,” not an “event,” and saying any concrete developments would be announced later. He also rejected suggestions that security concerns were holding up Islamabad as a venue, saying Pakistan was “very safe and secure.”

Walking a tightrope

Islamabad has also sought to show that it has access to both sides. Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, spoke with Trump on March 23, while Sharif spoke the next day with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. 

In the Senate, Dar said he had conveyed Tehran’s position to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and backed Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy, while also making clear that Pakistan “would not allow itself to be dragged into a broader regional conflict.”

About 35,000 Pakistanis were in Iran and that 792 had already been evacuated by land through the Taftan-Zahedan crossing.

Still, Pakistan’s emergence as a mediator remains real but provisional. The White House has warned against treating reported talks as official, and Araghchi has said exchanges through mediators do not amount to negotiations with Washington. 

For now, Pakistan is trying to end one war — even as it fights another at home.

Reports from the ground indicate that explosions were heard in the Afghan capital early in the day, with both sides offering sharply different accounts of the damage and casualties.

Pakistan’s information minister, Attaullah Tarar, said the strikes killed 133 Afghan Taliban officials and wounded more than 200 others. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the armed forces were capable of crushing aggressors, while Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif described the situation as “open war.”

Kabul, however, rejected Pakistan’s account. 

Afghanistan’s defence ministry said 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed in Thursday night’s border clashes and that 19 Pakistani posts and two bases were destroyed. It reported eight Afghan soldiers killed and 11 wounded.

After months of tension

This latest fighting follows months of tit-for-tat violence despite a Qatar-mediated ceasefire agreed in 2025. 

Border crossings have largely remained shut since deadly clashes in October that left more than 70 people dead on both sides. 

Residents near the Torkham crossing have again been evacuated, and local authorities reported civilian casualties, including women and children .

At the heart of the dispute is Pakistan’s accusation that Afghanistan is failing to curb militant groups operating from its soil, particularly Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). 

Islamabad said the group has intensified attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Afghan officials insist the TTP issue is an internal Pakistani matter.

Border factor

Tensions have deep historical roots, as the two countries share a 2,611-kilometre frontier known as the Durand Line, a colonial-era boundary that Kabul has never formally recognised. The line divides Pashtun communities and remains politically sensitive.

After the Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021, many in Pakistan expected a friendly administration. During the insurgency against US-led forces, Taliban leaders had found sanctuary in Pakistani border regions. 

Yet relations have deteriorated as the Afghan Taliban have sought greater autonomy and resisted Pakistani pressure over militant groups.

Continued cross-border strikes risk deepening instability in a region already strained by militancy, economic fragility and diplomatic isolation. 

The United Nations has called for restraint, though it has so far failed to halt the slide towards a broader confrontation.

The IPL exit and political pressure

In December, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) signed Rahman for Rs 9.2 crore ($1 million) during the IPL auction held in Abu Dhabi, making him one of the most expensive overseas players at the event. However, on January 3, the BCCI instructed KKR to release Rahman.

The move was influenced by political pressure within India. Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised objections to the participation of Bangladeshi players in the IPL following reports of communal violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh.

These leaders called for a boycott of Bangladeshi products and public figures, with Rahman’s presence in the IPL becoming a focal point of the criticism. In retaliation for the removal, Bangladeshi authorities banned all broadcasts of the IPL within their borders.

Tensions have been high between the South Asian neighbours since former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India in 2024.

Escalation to the T20 World Cup

Rahman’s removal soon had implications beyond the IPL. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested that its T20 World Cup matches be moved from India to Sri Lanka, citing "security concerns".

The ICC rejected this request, citing an "absence of any credible security threat". When the BCB failed to confirm its participation within a 24-hour deadline, the ICC removed Bangladesh from the tournament, replacing them with Scotland.

The ICC defended its firm stance by stating it was vital "not to establish 'precedents that could undermine the neutrality and fairness of ICC events'".

Pakistan boycott and financial risks

The situation worsened when Pakistan intervened in support of Bangladesh. The Pakistan government and the PCB accused the ICC of "double standards".

In a significant blow to the tournament’s commercial viability, the Pakistani government ordered its national team not to take the field against India for their scheduled match on 15 February.

This "selective participation" poses a major financial threat to the ICC, as India-Pakistan matches generate significant broadcast and commercial revenue that can attract over 600 million viewers.

The ICC has warned that such actions are "not in the interest of the global game" and called for a "mutually acceptable resolution". Supporting the government's stance, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi stated: "This is the moment for the ICC to lead and prove through decisions, not statements, that it is impartial, independent and fair to every member".

Transition to the Pakistan Super League

Amid the ongoing dispute, Rahman secured a contract in the PSL with the Lahore Qalandars, signing for $230,000. He was one of two players signed directly outside the league’s auction process. This is Rahman’s third stint with the franchise since the PSL began in 2016, where he is viewed as a foundational member of the squad.

Lahore Qalandars owner Sameen Rana publicly backed the player, stating: “Once a Qalandar, always a Qalandar. Mustafizur is not just a player; he’s a brother, a key part of our family who never left”.

Rana added that Rahman’s “talent, experience, and dedication” would be important as the team prepares to defend its title in the upcoming PSL 11 season.

A growing number of countries are showing interest in the JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, a jet developed jointly by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. Reports suggest that at least 13 nations are exploring potential purchases, including states involved in active conflicts such as Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Nigeria, alongside others across Africa and the Middle East like Ethiopia, Morocco and Libya.

The JF-17 first entered service in 2007, and Pakistan has since rolled out increasingly advanced variants as part of a broader push toward military self-reliance and entry into the global arms market.

The aircraft is powered by a Russia n engine, but the rest of the jet, from its airframe to its avionics, is largely produced in China and Pakistan. While it is not a fifth generation fighter like the US F-35, China’s J-35 or Russia’s Su-57, the JF-17 is considered a 4.5-generation aircraft. It features modern radar systems and beyond visual range combat capabilities, although it lacks true stealth and can still be detected by radar. Comparable aircraft in this category include France’s Rafale, Sweden’s Gripen and the Eurofighter Typhoon.

What makes the JF-17 stand out is its cost. At roughly 30 million dollars per unit, it is around a third of the price of a Rafale and significantly cheaper than most Western alternatives. For many air forces, affordability is only part of the appeal - Western-supplied aircraft often come with restrictions on how they can be used, which weapons they can carry, and where they can be deployed. In some cases, suppliers can even limit operational use during conflicts or require oversight of training and maintenance.

By contrast, the JF-17 offers buyers greater freedom of use. That sense of strategic autonomy is a major selling point for countries that want fewer strings attached to their military capabilities. The financial advantages also extend beyond the initial purchase. Long-term costs for maintenance, upgrades and armaments can exceed the price of the aircraft itself, and here again the JF-17 undercuts many Western competitors.

This matters because many countries are still flying ageing fourth-generation jets designed in the 1980s. They need affordable upgrades to remain credible in modern air combat, even though most air forces rarely see real combat against a comparable enemy. Jets are counted, pilots are trained, and upgrades are tested, but actual high-intensity aerial warfare is uncommon.

One rare exception came in May 2025, following Indian missile strikes in response to a terrorist attack in Kashmir. A large-scale aerial engagement followed, involving more than 100 aircraft from both sides, operating almost entirely at beyond visual range distances. Pakistan claimed it shot down several Indian aircraft, including Rafales, although the details remain disputed and India has acknowledged only limited losses. The JF-17 itself was not credited with the reported kills, which were attributed to Chinese J-10CE fighters, but its presence in such a high-profile confrontation significantly raised its international profile.

Pakistan today ranks among the world ’s top ten arms exporters, though fighter jet exports remain relatively small. The JF-17 has been delivered in limited numbers to countries such as Nigeria, Myanmar and Azerbaijan. While these orders are modest, interest is growing, and the aircraft has become the flagship of Pakistan’s military industrial strategy.

By comparison, the United States has exported more than 1,500 F-16s worldwide and continues to sell the F-35. France has sold hundreds of Rafales, Sweden has exported Gripens across multiple continents, and Russia has long supplied MiG and Sukhoi jets to partners such as India, Algeria and Vietnam. Against these giants, the JF-17 is still a minor player in raw numbers.

Yet its significance goes beyond sales figures. The JF-17 represents a low-cost, politically independent and technically capable alternative for countries seeking to modernise their air forces without external constraints. More than just a fighter jet, it is Pakistan’s statement of ambition and an emerging symbol of its influence in the global defence market.

Click here to watch our previous episodes

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

It follows the confirmation of 30 polio cases so far this year, a sharp improvement on last year’s toll but still a reminder that transmission persists.

More than 400,000 frontline vaccinators are moving door to door, supported by thousands of police officers deployed amid intelligence warnings of possible militant attacks. Vaccination teams have repeatedly been targeted by extremists who claim, without evidence, that polio campaigns are a Western plot.

Health Minister Mustafa Kamal urged families to cooperate with vaccination teams, warning that complacency could reverse gains. Each new infection, he said, risks condemning a child to lifelong paralysis while keeping communities vulnerable to wider outbreaks.

Afghanistan is the only other country where polio remains endemic. Officials said synchronised drives on both sides of the border are essential to interrupt cross-border transmission, which has historically undermined national progress.

Despite the latest cases, health authorities pointed to a dramatic long-term decline. Pakistan has reduced polio incidence by more than 99 per cent since the 1990s, cutting tens of thousands of annual cases to a few dozen. Two of the three strains of wild poliovirus once circulating in the country have already been eliminated.

That progress was underscored at a recent World Health Organization and Aga Khan University forum in Karachi, where international and national experts concluded that eradication in Pakistan is scientifically achievable. 

Pakistan’s programme is often cited as one of the most extensive public health operations in the world, with a dense network of emergency operation centres and one of the most sensitive surveillance systems globally. 

International advisers said the remaining challenge is not the effectiveness of the vaccine but reaching every last child, particularly in insecure or hard-to-access areas.

Officials described the current campaign as part of the “last mile” — the most difficult phase of eradication, when case numbers are low but the risk of resurgence is high. 

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry plans to help at least 400,000 families achieve economic independence in 2026, a major increase from the 77,000 households that “graduated” from social assistance programmes this year. Minister Saifullah Yusuf said the expansion is supported by a larger 2025 budget and aims to break long-term poverty cycles by combining capital support, training, and business mentoring. Families exiting schemes such as PKH and basic food aid will continue to receive guidance to prevent them from slipping back into poverty, with further empowerment overseen by the new Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment. The initiative targets structural, sustainable poverty reduction.

Prabowo to visit Pakistan to mark 75 years of Indonesia-Pakistan ties

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will visit Pakistan on December 8 to 9 at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marking his first trip there since taking office in 2024 and coinciding with 75 years of Indonesia-Pakistan diplomatic ties. Prabowo is expected to meet President Asif Ali Zardari and senior military officials, with both sides set to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, defence, investment, health, IT, climate, education, and culture. Several agreements are likely to be signed. Reports say Prabowo departed from Aceh after inspecting disaster-hit areas, though the Presidential Palace has yet to confirm his travel.

Indonesia to extend free meal program to disabled in 2026

Indonesia will deliver free breakfast and lunch to 36,000 people with disabilities starting in 2026, Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf announced. Meals will be prepared by community groups and delivered directly to recipients’ homes by village cadres, who will also provide emotional and social support. The program will expand to 100,000 elderly beneficiaries and is guided by Presidential Instruction No. 4, ensuring accurate targeting through detailed national data. Launched in January 2025, the wider meal initiative already serves 49 million Indonesians daily, with a nationwide expansion planned to reach 82.9 million people by March 2026.

Prabowo doubles aid to Rp4 billion as Sumatra disaster toll climbs

President Prabowo Subianto has doubled emergency funding to Rp4 billion ($239,000) for each of the 52 districts and cities hit by floods and landslides in Sumatra, after Home Minister Tito Karnavian requested half that amount. Prabowo also ordered an additional Rp20 billion ($1.19 million) for the worst-affected province and pledged full central government support. Regional contingency funds are reportedly running low, with some areas left with only Rp75 million ($4,493). A separate pooling scheme has gathered Rp34 billion ($2.03 million) for redistribution. According to BNPB, the disasters have killed 929 people, left 274 missing, and affected millions across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

Indonesia to repatriate two elderly Dutch drug convicts

Indonesia and the Netherlands have agreed to repatriate two elderly Dutch drug convicts — one on death row — after a humanitarian request from The Hague. Siegfried Mets, 74, sentenced to death in 2008 for smuggling 600,000 ecstasy pills, and Ali Tokman, 65, whose death sentence for MDMA smuggling was later reduced to life imprisonment, will be flown to Amsterdam on December 8. Indonesian minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said President Prabowo approved the request, noting Mets’ deteriorating health. Dutch officials welcomed the move, saying it would allow both men to be closer to their families and reflected strong bilateral ties.

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has again emphasised the government's willingness to hold dialogue with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), reaffirming that the offer remains open. He criticised PTI’s earlier decision to boycott the elections, framing the government’s stance as one of openness while expressing frustration with what he described as PTI’s inconsistent political strategy.

Polling completed peacefully with transparent voter participation

The government reported that polling activities concluded without major incidents, describing the process as peaceful and transparent. Officials highlighted strong and orderly voter participation, pointing to the day as an example of improving electoral management and rising public engagement in the democratic process.

Dialogue offer to PTI remains active, says federal leadership

Reiterating the earlier message, senior government members, including Sanaullah, clarified that the prime minister’s offer for political dialogue with PTI remains on the table . This message aims to signal political maturity and readiness to negotiate despite ongoing tensions between rival parties.

PML-N invites PTI to talks following cooperation signals from KP leadership

A fresh opening appeared after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur Afridi signalled readiness to cooperate. In response, PML-N leaders, notably Sanaullah, extended a renewed invitation to PTI for dialogue. The development is seen as a potential thaw in relations between the two major political camps.

Pakistan’s resilience highlighted by Ahsan Iqbal

Ahsan Iqbal stressed that Pakistan remains a resilient nation capable of rising stronger from ongoing economic and political challenges. He emphasised the country’s inherent strength and potential, framing this moment as an opportunity for national renewal and collective improvement.

India has announced it will establish an agricultural research centre in Afghanistan, marking one of its most significant developmental engagements in the country since the Taliban takeover. The initiative aims to enhance crop productivity, introduce modern farming technology and boost food security — critical priorities in a country where drought, economic contraction and limited international aid have strained livelihoods. New Delhi’s move signals a continued interest in maintaining influence and supporting grassroots development, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties with the Taliban administration.

Taliban regime

Tensions with neighbouring Pakistan escalated once again, after Pakistan’s Defence Minister publicly stated that the “Taliban regime” does not represent the Afghan people. The remark underscores Islamabad’s growing frustration with the Taliban government and reflects worsening trust between the two sides, driven by allegations of cross-border militancy and disputes over the status of Afghan refugees. Pakistan, historically seen as a critical power broker in Afghan affairs, appears to be recalibrating its stance in response to rising security challenges at home, and increasingly vocal domestic criticism of its past engagement with the Taliban.

Pakistan ceasefire

Despite the heated rhetoric, diplomatic channels have remained active. Türkiye confirmed that Afghanistan and Pakistan have agreed to maintain a ceasefire, following mediation efforts led by Ankara, with fresh negotiations scheduled for November 6. The move highlights Türkiye’s ambitions to play a stabilising diplomatic role in South Asia and its growing engagement in regional political dynamics. While the ceasefire agreement signals progress, both sides remain cautious amid continued concerns over border security, militant movements and humanitarian pressures linked to mass displacement and returns.

Counterterrorism cooperation

Further confirming diplomatic momentum, Kabul and Islamabad later issued statements reaffirming their commitment to continue the ceasefire and dialogue. However, Afghan and Pakistani relations remain fragile, shaped by longstanding mistrust and divergent security priorities — especially around counterterrorism cooperation and the contested Durand Line border. With winter approaching and regional security conditions unpredictable, observers warn that even small provocations could destabilise the fragile peace without sustained political will on both sides.

Afghan values

Domestically, internal messaging from the Taliban leadership continued to emphasise cultural control and ideological direction. Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani hosted Afghanistan’s U-17 futsal champions, praising their achievement on the international stage while urging them to adhere to “Islamic and Afghan values.” The meeting reflects the Taliban’s strategy of using youth and sports victories to foster national pride, even as they tighten cultural restrictions. It also highlights the regime’s effort to cultivate a narrative of unity and resilience, despite ongoing concerns from Afghan civil society over shrinking freedoms and limited pathways for young people under the current political environment.

According to The Blackout Report, India’s blackout in July 2012 impacted 670 million people, Pakistan’s blackout in January 2023 hit 244 million (almost its whole population), Bangladesh’s October 2022 outage affected 140 million, and Indonesia’s 2005 incident cut power to 100 million.

India’s 2012 blackout — The largest in human history

In July 2012, India experienced what remains the biggest power outage in history, cutting electricity to more than 670 million people, nearly half of its population.

The collapse began when a key 400 kV transmission line between Bina, Gwalior, and Agra failed, triggering a cascading breakdown that crippled three of India’s five regional grids.

Trains stopped mid-journey, traffic signals failed, hospitals ran on emergency power, and millions were left stranded at railway stations in the sweltering July heat. Water pumping systems also failed, leaving many without access to clean water.

It took nearly 15 hours to restore 80% of power in the affected regions, and the episode became a wake-up call for India’s power sector. The blackout led to immediate reforms, including tighter coordination between regional grids, better load forecasting, and investments in “smart grid” systems.

What happened in Pakistan in 2023

On January 23, 2023, Pakistan experienced one of the most dramatic grid collapses in modern history. The outage began around 7:34 a.m. local time when sudden fluctuations in grid frequency caused transmission lines to trip and disconnect southern and northern systems. Over 11365 MW of power was lost, and most of the country plunged into darkness.

In many areas, power stayed off for over 12 hours, and in some rural zones, outages stretched to 24 or even 72 hours. In its aftermath, authorities launched a full investigation.

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) held six entities accountable, including the national transmission company, generator operators, and hydropower stations. Weak protection systems, mismatched generation schedules, and poor coordination all contributed to the cascade collapse.

Every day life suffered as hospitals ran on backup generators, communications networks faltered, and water pump systems shut down. The economic toll was steep, especially on industries like textiles.

Bangladesh’s 2022 blackout

On October 4, 2022, nearly 80% of Bangladesh lost power after a massive grid failure disrupted the country’s entire electricity network. The outage, which began in the afternoon and lasted for more than seven hours, affected around 140 million people.

In the capital, Dhaka, elevators stopped, traffic lights went dark, and factories across the industrial belt were forced to shut down. For Bangladesh’s garment sector, the backbone of its economy, the blackout was especially painful. Many textile plants, which rely on continuous power for production, were forced to halt operations, disrupting exports and cutting daily wages.

The outage also deepened frustration amid a worsening energy crunch. Protests broke out in several cities, reflecting public anger over the government’s handling of energy imports and rising costs. Officials later confirmed the blackout was caused by a “transmission imbalance” in the eastern grid, leading to a chain reaction that tripped multiple power plants.

Indonesia’s 2005 blackout

Earlier, in August 2005, Indonesia faced a similar crisis when a transmission line failure in West Java triggered a cascading power outage across Java and Bali, leaving nearly 100 million people without electricity.

The blackout struck at mid-morning, paralysing Jakarta, one of Asia’s most crowded capitals. Traffic jams stretched for miles, hospitals operated on diesel generators, and mobile networks went offline. The state utility company, PLN, apologised publicly as then President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono ordered an immediate investigation.

Within hours, most of Jakarta regained power, but some regions remained in darkness well into the night. The incident led to major scrutiny of PLN’s maintenance and oversight procedures, as well as a push to diversify Indonesia’s energy mix to reduce dependence on overloaded transmission corridors.

According to the report, Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and India were the world ’s most polluted countries in 2024, with air quality levels many times higher than the guidelines set by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Chad recorded the worst air quality globally, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, over 18 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Bangladesh followed with 78 µg/m³, Pakistan with 73.7 µg/m³, the Democratic Republic of Congo with 58.2 µg/m³, and India with 50.6 µg/m³.

The 2024 IQAir report is based on data from more than 40,000 air quality monitoring stations across 8,954 locations in 138 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive assessments of global air pollution to date. Alarmingly, the report found that 126 countries exceeded the WHO’s safe air quality limits, and only 17% of global cities met the recommended PM2.5 guideline.

South Asia remains the world’s most polluted region. Despite some progress, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan continue to struggle with dense smog and industrial emissions. In India, air quality improved slightly, about a 7% reduction in PM2.5 levels compared to 2023, yet the country still ranked fifth overall.

The world’s most polluted city in 2024 was Byrnihat, India, with an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 128.2 µg/m³.

A major factor behind these high readings is the continued reliance on fossil fuels, combined with vehicle emissions, industrial output, and seasonal crop burning. In regions such as India and Pakistan, weather conditions, including low wind speeds and temperature inversions, trap pollutants close to the ground, turning cities into toxic basins.

Meanwhile, many African nations face growing challenges as rapid urbanisation collides with limited environmental monitoring. IQAir notes that in Africa, there is, on average, just one air quality monitor for every 3.7 million people.

The dangers of these trends became especially clear during the 2024 India–Pakistan smog crisis, when thick haze engulfed large parts of the two countries. In November 2024, some areas recorded PM2.5 levels as high as 947 µg/m³, forcing school closures and overwhelming hospitals with respiratory cases.

To be clear: Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine is India-specific and rooted in the principle of credible minimum deterrence. Its longest-range missile – Shaheen III – has a range of 2,750 km, sufficient to cover targets in the Indian subcontinent, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where India maintains strategic assets. That is the extent of Pakistan’s nuclear ambition; it has no plans to develop ICBMs and remains the only nuclear-armed state without one.

Despite these facts, dubious speculation abounds suggesting that Pakistan wants an ICBM capable of reaching the US in order to deter Washington from intervening on India’s behalf in a future conflict. This faulty logic then suggests that since no ICBM-possessing country outside of Nato is considered a US ally, Pakistan therefore becomes a de facto adversary. Such assertions collapse under scrutiny.

Pakistan and the United States have been partners since 1947 . Over the decades—from the 1950s through the Cold War and into the post-9/11 era—the relationship has had ups and downs but has proved to be enduring. In contrast, Pakistan’s chief rival, India, has an uneven relationship with Washington, shaped by Cold War-era alignment with the Soviet Union and a long flirtation with non-alignment. Even today, despite grand declarations of strategic partnership, India continues to prioritise its ties with Russia . Since the Ukraine war began in 2022, India has capitalised on discounted Russian oil and gas , re-exporting it at a profit. It also leads BRICS initiatives aimed at challenging the US-led world order.

Why, then, the renewed effort to portray Pakistan and the US as potential adversaries? Who benefits from this fiction? In the May 2025 hostilities between India and Pakistan, President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio chose diplomacy over partisanship. They mediated a ceasefire, underscoring Washington’s commitment to regional stability. The US chose even-handed diplomacy over partisanship in favour of India.

Furthermore, by attempting to smear Pakistan on the basis that no ICBM-possessing nation is a US ally, these speculative voices ironically draw attention to India, which has already tested the Agni-V platform, an ICBM with a range of 5,500 to 8,000 km. Has that made India a US adversary? India is now developing a MIRV-capable Agni-VI, with an estimated range of 9,000 to 16,000 km. If ICBMs automatically signal hostility, why is India exempt? The logic is inconsistent.

Partly to blame is the unchecked “ Indomania ” that skewed US policy under the Biden administration by exaggerating and mischaracterising the Pakistani military’s research and development programme. For instance, the development of large rocket motors for MIRV-enabled intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs), with a declared range of 2,200 km, or for space launchers, is entirely within Pakistan’s defensive remit. Misrepresenting them as an ICBM programme, as a former US National Security Council official suggested last December, is inaccurate. The sanctions that followed—targeting four Pakistani entities—were unjustified.

India exploits such attitudes to undermine Pakistan by seeding disinformation through selected media outlets and amplifying it via domestic megaphone journalism—TV channels, newspapers and social media—all orchestrated by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The real goal is to curb or cap Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities via US pressure, while deflecting attention from India’s rapid ICBM expansion. Though India claims these weapons are aimed at China, its intent is ambiguous, especially given its growing ties with Beijing and a hedging behaviour in light of the Trump Administration’s regional realignment .

Critics also ignore India’s growing military ambitions. It is accelerating the regional missile race by expanding its footprint in Tajikistan, Oman, Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles. By falsely accusing Pakistan, it tries to obscure its own ICBMs in plain sight while hiding behind a Beltway consensus, which is right now fraying, that frames India as a steadfast US ally. Despite Indian provocations, Pakistan has chosen restraint - committed to credible, proportional deterrence rather than open-ended arms competition. Its only adversary is India, right on its borders. The US, a long-standing partner of Pakistan, does not factor into this equation.

Many of those fanning fears about Pakistan’s missile intentions previously served as advisors during the Biden Administration and helped shape a narrative rooted in mistrust. Their talking points are out of step with current realities, particularly with the Trump Administration’s role de-escalating the 2025 India-Pakistan crisis. Contrary to some expectations, the US did not side with India. Since the ceasefire, President Trump has adopted a balanced approach, offering assistance on Kashmir and acknowledging Pakistan’s stabilising role. The latest round of speculative theorising not only omits this diplomatic progress but fails to recognise India’s increasingly aggressive posture, which only increases the threat that nuclear ICBMs pose to global peace.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Masood Khan is Pakistan’s former Ambassador to the United States, United Nations and China.

The practice was believed to carry cultural meaning, with designs used to identify members of the community and protect them from harm.

However, as rural Hindu communities in Muslim-majority Pakistan become increasingly connected to nearby towns and cities, fewer young women are choosing to continue the tradition.

Just 2% of Pakistan’s 240 million people are Hindu, most of whom live in Sindh.

Discrimination against minorities remains widespread, and many young Hindus say tattoos make them more visibly identifiable in public.

For Hindu activist Mukesh Meghwar, notions tied to tattoos are one reason for the declining tradition.

"We grew up hearing that a tattoo on the body is a sin [according to Muslims in Pakistan]," he told AFP. "I remember ten years back, I heard that one who has tattoos will have no life after death. It’s sin. And when we discuss such things with our families, it certainly affects our women as well.”

Many Muslims in Pakistan view tattoos as forbidden, and those who do have them rarely display them publicly.

Few Hindus interviewed could recall the origins of the custom, but anthropologists say it stretches back hundreds of years.

“These symbols are part of the culture of people who trace their roots to the Indus civilisation,” anthropologist Zulfiqar Ali Kalhoro told AFP, referring to the Bronze Age period that predates modern religions. “These ‘marks’ were traditionally used to identify members of a community and to ward off evil spirits.”

For young Hindus, however, the practice no longer holds the same significance.

Durga Prem, a 20-year-old computer science student, said: “We want to represent our skills in front of others. We don’t want these things [tattoos] that could create hurdles in our communication.”

Another student, Mumta Prem, said tattoos can be a reason to be outcast.

“With education and living in the city, this trend is declining. One looks different from others if one has tattoos. So, we don’t have tattoos.”

While the tradition remains visible among older women in rural areas, Meghwar believes the younger generations are unlikely to carry it forward.

"This is very painful. Perhaps we are the last generation to see tattoos," he said.

The United States and Pakistan announced a trade deal Thursday, which Islamabad said would boost investment and reduce tariffs, though exact rates weren’t disclosed. Pakistan's finance ministry called it the start of a new era of economic cooperation across sectors like energy, IT, crypto, and mining. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said the agreement reflected broader strategic goals beyond trade. Previously facing a possible 29% tariff, Pakistan secured a suspension ahead of the August 1 trade talks deadline, aiming for better terms than regional competitors like Vietnam (20%) and India (threatened with 25%).

Intel says Pakistan is rebuilding terror camps

Pakistan is allegedly reviving terrorism infrastructure with a new approach, an intelligence report reveals. The Pakistan Army, ISI, and other agencies are reportedly aiding major terror groups in reconstructing at least 13 camps and launchpads destroyed in Operation Sindoor, especially near the Line of Control in PoK and the Jammu border. Sites named include Kel, Shardi, Dudhniyal, Lipa Valley, and Jura, among others. Four launchpads near Jammu — Masroor, Chaprar, and a drone hub in Shakargarh — are also being reactivated using advanced techniques and funding from state entities.

Olympian killed in climbing accident

Olympic gold medallist Laura Dahlmeier died after being struck by falling rocks while climbing Laila Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram range, officials said Wednesday, July 30. Bad weather delayed rescue efforts, and her body has not been recovered. Her partner survived, and local authorities said any recovery attempt would respect her family’s wishes. An Instagram post stated Dahlmeier did not want anyone to risk their life retrieving her body. German President Steinmeier paid tribute, calling her an “exceptional sportswoman” and recalling awarding her the Silver Laurel Leaf in 2018.

Pakistan keeps key rate unchanged to curb inflation

Pakistan’s central bank kept its key rate at 11% on Wednesday, defying expectations of a cut due to worsening inflation driven by higher energy prices. The State Bank cited rising gas costs and a widening trade deficit as key risks, noting that inflation pressures had intensified. All 15 analysts in a Reuters poll had predicted a rate cut. Central Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad said it was prudent to wait rather than risk reversing a premature easing move.

Pakistan repeats claims of 'resounding success' in Operation Sindoor

Pakistan dismissed India’s Operation Sindoor statements in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, July 30, as “baseless and provocative,” accusing New Delhi of spreading disinformation and jingoism. It reiterated claims of military success and warned Indian leaders to acknowledge their losses and third-party roles in the ceasefire. Islamabad also alleged India lacked evidence for the Pahalgam attack and failed to meet strategic goals, while praising its military response as decisive.

The company said Pakistan was hit by 34 million cyberattacks between 2023 and 2024, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protection systems.

Dexter will therefore    work alongside human analysts rather than replace them.

The move is being described as a sign of growing local innovation and digital independence in a world where cybercrime is rising.

“We’re not building technology to replace our cybersecurity community, we’re building it to amplify their capabilities,” said Sulaiman Asif, founder of SOCByte.

These countries were granted this privilege after they emerged as victors of World War II. But the world has changed drastically since then — economically, politically, and demographically. Many argue it’s time the UNSC reflected that.

With over 50% of the world’s population living in Asia and Africa, why don’t these regions have a permanent voice at the table? Should countries like India be given a seat based on their population, or Pakistan based on military power, or regional influence? And what happens when permanent members are the very ones involved in the conflicts the UN is supposed to address?

Officials say the system will allow travellers to pass through immigration more quickly without having to speak directly to border staff.

The gates will use digital technology , including facial recognition and fingerprint scans, to check passengers' documents and identities.

The Pakistan Airports Authority said the project is part of a broader push to bring the country’s airports up to international standards. About 100 gates will be set up, and the project has been developed in partnership with the German firm M2P Consulting.

German experts working on the design also conducted a workshop in Karachi and met with local stakeholders, including Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency.

Speaking to The Express Tribune , Additional Director of Engineering Services Adnan Ahmed said the plan is to deliver a secure and efficient solution that eases pressure on immigration officers while improving security.

The self-service system is expected to benefit both passengers and staff, offering a faster and smoother travel experience.

The upgrade comes amid efforts to expand Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and improve services for growing numbers of international travellers.

The Indian Embassy in a statement posted on X stated that “the delegation will be meeting members of the U.S. Congress and administration, think tanks, media and policymakers to brief them on Operation Sindoor and India’s strong stand against terrorism”.

Targeted terrorism in India

According to The Hindu , the delegation aims to highlight India’s response to cross-border terrorism and underline Pakistan’s alleged links to terror groups. “India has had enough,” said Milind Deora, a delegation member, asserting India’s right to defend itself, just as the U.S. does. India needs peace. India needs strong borders. India needs security,” he added.

On dialogue with Pakistan, Tharoor said: “India can engage if Pakistan takes visible action against terror infrastructure .”

Regional Security

As the Indian delegation begins its meetings in Washington, a Pakistani parliamentary group led by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is also scheduled to arrive. Speaking in New York , Zardari said his delegation would urge the U.S. to facilitate peace between India and Pakistan.

“The U.S. enjoys good relations with both countries...we will be seeking to encourage it to play its role,” he told reporters.

The visit marks the final stop of a broader outreach tour that included Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil.

They will also be banned from holding a Pakistani passport for five years.

The decision comes after rising complaints from countries, especially in the Middle East , about Pakistani nationals involved in begging and illegal migration.

Officials say many of those deported have caused embarrassment to the country.

A high-level meeting in Islamabad agreed that First Information Reports would be filed against deportees as soon as they arrive in Pakistan.

The Ministry of Interior has also formed a committee to suggest stricter passport checks and better screening of applicants.

The move follows reports that around 4,000 Pakistani nationals, mostly beggars, were deported from Saudi Arabia between 2022 and the end of 2024.

More recently, over 100 deportees arrived from European countries, many accused of fraud or travelling without proper documents.

The government says it will not issue new passports to people who have been deported, and will also take action against travel agents involved in human smuggling.

Saudi Arabia is already the biggest destination for Pakistani workers and the top source of remittances, sending more than $700 million each month to Pakistan.

Officials say the selected beauticians will take up roles such as hairdressers, makeup artists, nail technicians, eyelash specialists, waxing and bleaching experts, and wig technicians.

Applicants must be under 40 years old and have at least three years of experience in the beauty industry, Arab News reports .

Those chosen will be paid up to 3,000 Saudi Riyals a month, which is about $800.

They will also receive free shared accommodation, meals or a food allowance, and round-trip airfare. Transport within Saudi Arabia will also be provided if needed.

Applications must be submitted on the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) website by June 8. The OEC is a part of Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development.

Pakistan has long-standing ties with Saudi Arabia in areas like labour, defence, and culture .

Around 2.7 million Pakistanis live and work in the Kingdom.

The country’s overseas workforce is a vital part of its economy, especially as it deals with financial challenges.

Turkey has discovered a new natural gas reserve of 75 billion cubic metres in the Black Sea, President Tayyip Erdogan announced on May 17. The reserve, located in the Goktepe-3 well at a depth of 3,500 metres, is estimated to be worth approximately $30 billion. According to Erdogan, the find could supply household natural gas needs in Turkey for 3.5 years. The country’s daily production at the Sakarya field has reached 9.5 million cubic metres, supporting its broader energy development goals.

Putin and Trump to skip Russia–Ukraine Talks in Turkey

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming Russia–Ukraine talks in Turkey, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed to CNN on May 15. When asked about Putin’s attendance, Peskov replied, “No.” Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously suggested he might alter his Middle East travel plans to join the negotiations, will also be absent. He stated that Putin’s non-attendance was not disappointing and that no progress on Ukraine would occur until he meets with the Russian leader.

U.S. approves $304 million missile sale to Turkey

The United States has approved the sale of missiles worth $304 million to Turkey, pending Congressional approval. The sale includes 53 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles valued at $225 million and 60 Block II missiles priced at $79.1 million, according to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency. RTX Corporation is designated as the principal contractor. The announcement coincided with Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Turkey for a NATO foreign ministers' meeting. He is scheduled to continue to Istanbul for possible ceasefire talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials.

India reviews business ties with Turkey following its support for Pakistan

Turkey was among the few countries that openly backed Pakistan during its recent conflict with India. In response, the Indian government is reviewing its diplomatic and economic relations with Turkey. According to News18 , the Modi-led administration is reassessing agreements with Turkish companies across sectors such as automobiles, information technology, metro rail, and infrastructure. According to the report, these contracts are under scrutiny and may be subject to termination.

Turkish Foreign Minister to address U.S. sanctions lift on Syria 

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Thursday, May 15, that he will discuss the recent U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria, as well as the path forward, during meetings with his American and Syrian counterparts. Fidan made the statement during an informal NATO foreign ministers’ gathering in Antalya, Turkey, where he is scheduled to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani. The announcement follows a decision by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this week to remove sanctions on Syria.

New Delhi also summoned Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires and issued a formal protest over the incident.

Shortly after, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced it had declared an Indian High Commission staffer in Islamabad “persona non grata” for similar reasons and asked the official to leave within the same time frame.

“The Indian Charge d’Affaires was called to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today for a démarche, conveying this decision,” the ministry said on social media platform X.

Indian government sources linked the Pakistani official to recent arrests in the northern state of Punjab, where local police say espionage activities were uncovered.

Two people , including a woman, were arrested over the weekend for allegedly passing sensitive information about army movements to a Pakistani handler. The suspects, named as Guzala and Yameen Mohamad, are from the town of Malerkotla.

This follows earlier arrests by Punjab police of two other individuals in Amritsar, accused of sharing photos and details of military bases with Pakistan’s intelligence agency.

The latest move reduces the strength of Pakistan’s High Commission staff in New Delhi to 29.

Diplomatic staff numbers have been a point of friction in the past. In October, India expelled 25 Pakistani officials, including military personnel, after a terror attack in Pahalgam.

India also withdrew an equal number of its diplomats from Islamabad as part of a tit-for-tat response.

Tensions between both countries have escalated in recent times, especially over cross-border terrorism and espionage claims.

The latest diplomatic dispute adds to an already strained relationship between the two countries.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to substantially increase trade with India and Pakistan following the two countries' agreement to a ceasefire aimed at ending recent cross-border hostilities. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump expressed support for the ceasefire and indicated his intention to assist in resolving the long-standing Kashmir dispute. He praised the leadership of both nations for their role in reaching the agreement. The ceasefire, brokered with diplomatic pressure from the United States, came after days of intense military exchanges that resulted in dozens of casualties. Despite the agreement, artillery fire was reported in Indian-administered Kashmir hours later, raising concerns about the durability of the truce.

Pakistan denies false reports of Imran Khan’s death

Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday, 10 May, dismissed as false a press release claiming former Prime Minister Imran Khan had died in judicial custody. The ministry urged the public to reject what it described as irresponsible behaviour. Earlier, an undated statement, allegedly from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, circulated with claims of Khan’s death and a related investigation. The incident coincided with legal efforts by Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which petitioned the Islamabad High Court on Friday for his release, citing health risks and regional tensions with India.

Air travel from UAE to Pakistan resumes with scheduled flights to major cities

Air travel between the UAE and Pakistan has resumed , with flights departing from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to several Pakistani cities. UAE aviation authorities confirmed the restart of Pakistan-bound operations, including scheduled flights to Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, Peshawar, and Islamabad. The first flight to Islamabad is scheduled for May 12, followed by Peshawar on May 13.

Bangladesh and Pakistan cricket boards in active talks over upcoming tour

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that it is in active discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the upcoming white-ball tour scheduled for later this month. In a statement released Saturday, the BCB emphasised that player and staff safety remains its highest priority. Decisions about the tour will be based on an assessment of the current situation in Pakistan, with a focus on the best interests of the team and national cricket. Bangladesh is set to arrive in Pakistan on May 21 for five T20Is in Lahore and Faisalabad, beginning May 25.

India and Pakistan delay military talks as ceasefire holds overnight

India and Pakistan postponed talks between their military operations chiefs to Monday evening, according to the Indian army. The meeting is intended to determine next steps following Saturday’s ceasefire, which ended four days of cross-border hostilities. The Indian army reported no explosions or projectile fire overnight, marking the first peaceful night along the border in recent days. Some schools in the region remain closed. Airports in India have reopened, and markets responded positively, with shares rising in both countries.

India has ordered X to block over 8,000 accounts, including those of Pakistani politicians, celebrities, and media outlets, amid rising tensions with Pakistan. X said Thursday, May 9, it is reluctantly complying with what it called government-imposed censorship, warning that noncompliance could lead to heavy fines or jail time for local staff. The platform noted many orders lacked clear justification or evidence and argued that blocking entire accounts suppresses free speech. AFP reports that the move follows a similar request to Meta, which removed a major Muslim news page from Instagram in India. "Blocking entire accounts is not only unnecessary, it amounts to censorship of existing and future content, and is contrary to the fundamental right of free speech," the statement said.

US to not get involved in India-Pakistan tensions

The U.S. says it won’t intervene in the escalating India-Pakistan conflict, calling it "fundamentally none of our business," Vice President JD Vance said Thursday. While the U.S. can’t control the nuclear-armed neighbours, it urges de-escalation, echoing calls from President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "Look, we're concerned about any time nuclear powers collide and have a major conflict," Vance responded to a question on how concerned the Trump administration is about a potential nuclear war between the two countries, ABP reported.

China raises concern over escalating India-Pakistan tensions

China has expressed concern over rising India-Pakistan tensions and urged restraint, following Pakistani drone attacks and shelling along the Line of Control on Thursday, May 9. Indian forces shot down the drones as air raid sirens triggered blackouts across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the escalating situation, stating, “We’ve shared China’s position yesterday on the ongoing situation between India and Pakistan. China is concerned over the current developments.” ABP added that He emphasised the importance of regional stability, adding, “India and Pakistan are and will always be each other’s neighbours. They’re both China’s neighbours as well. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, observe international law, including the UN Charter, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation.”

Pakistan shoots down more than two dozen drones launched by India

India launched multiple Israeli-made Harop drones targeting Pakistan overnight and into Thursday, May 9, damaging a military site and wounding four soldiers, according to Pakistani army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif. Pakistani forces shot down 25 drones, he told The Associated Press. Debris from one downed drone in Sindh province killed a civilian and injured another. One drone struck a military site near Lahore, injuring four soldiers, while another crashed in Rawalpindi near the capital, he added. "The armed forces are neutralising them as we speak," Sharif said on the state-run Pakistan Television, according to Fox News .

India strikes suspected militant group headquarters deep inside Pakistan

Video from early Wednesday, May 8, shows a bright flash at a residential Islamic seminary near Bahawalpur in central Pakistan, struck by India in retaliation for the killing of Indian tourists in Kashmir. The seminary had been evacuated amid speculation of a potential attack, but the family of Jaish-e-Mohammed founder Masood Azhar remained, the group said. According to the Pakistani military, 13 people were killed, including 10 of Azhar’s relatives, among them women and children. Thousands gathered for their funerals at a local stadium, chanting “Allah Akbar” and other religious slogans, as reported by USA Today.

The move was in response to a recent deadly attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people were killed.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that the airports will remain closed until at least Saturday, May 10.

Affected airports include major hubs like Srinagar, Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Chandigarh, and Jaisalmer. The decision has disrupted hundreds of flights and created long delays, especially across northern and western India.

Airlines including IndiGo , Air India, and SpiceJet have cancelled services to the affected areas and are offering full refunds or free rescheduling.

IndiGo said in a statement, “Due to government notification on airspace restrictions, over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports... are cancelled until 0529 hrs IST of 10 May 2025.”

Delhi Airport, the busiest in the country, saw the cancellation of more than 140 flights on May 8 alone, local reports indicate.

International carriers such as Qatar Airways and American Airlines also altered their schedules, with some halting services to and from Pakistan due to airspace concerns.

The situation worsened on May 8 after India’s air defence systems intercepted what officials called a Pakistani missile and drone attack in the states of Jammu, Punjab and Rajasthan.

The strikes triggered blackouts, air raid sirens, and the suspension of an Indian Premier League cricket match in Dharamshala.

As security remains tight, airlines are urging passengers to arrive at operational airports early.

“We request you to allow some extra time for your journey to accommodate security checks and formalities,” IndiGo said on social media .

The government has not said when full flight services will resume.

On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack occurred in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Anantnag district, in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. The assault resulted in the deaths of at least 26 tourists and injuries to more than 20 others. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants targeted non-Muslim victims.

Initially, the Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be an offshoot of the Pakistan-based, UN-designated terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility but later retracted the claim.

In retaliation, India launched "Operation Sindoor," a series of airstrikes targeting sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. One notable target was Abdul Rauf Azhar, a top commander of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), who was killed during these strikes. Azhar was allegedly involved in several terror operations, including the 2002 beheading of Wall Street Journal journalist Daniel Pearl.

Pakistan responded by authorising military retaliation and placing its forces on high alert. Army Chief Asim Munir, known for his hardline stance, was given strategic control over the response. Pakistan also suspended the Simla Agreement and closed its airspace to Indian aircraft. Diplomatic ties were downgraded, with both countries expelling each other's diplomats.

The Kashmir dispute

The Kashmir region has been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan since the partition of British India in 1947. Both countries claim the region in full but govern separate parts of it. This territorial dispute has led to multiple wars and conflicts over the decades.

Pakistan has cancelled all flights to and from the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as tensions with India escalate following a terrorist attack in Jammu that killed 26 tourists. The precautionary measure, reported by NDTV World , is aimed at securing airspace amidst fears of military action by India. Officials are investigating the efficacy of the hotel’s fire safety mechanisms, as the tragedy unfolded with many guests trapped, leading to tragic fatalities.

Probiotic Dairy Market on the Rise in India

India’s gut-friendly dairy segment is experiencing significant growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 25% by 2032, as reported by Just Food . Reports indicate that health consciousness and rising disposable incomes are key drivers behind the increasing consumer interest in probiotic products, which include yogurt and buttermilk. Major Indian dairy brands are investing in marketing these products as they cater to a health-savvy consumer demographic, particularly urban youth.

Hotel Blaze in Kolkata Causes Tragic Loss of Life

A devastating fire at the Rituraj Hotel in Kolkata resulted in the deaths of at least 14 individuals, including two children. The fire, is reported by NBC News to have originated near the kitchen on the first floor, spread quickly, engulfing the building where many guests were present. The incident has prompted an inquiry into the hotel’s firefighting measures and safety protocols, as gross negligence in fire safety may have contributed to the fatalities.

India to Conduct Caste Census for the First Time in Decades

In a historic decision, India’s government has announced it will conduct the first official caste census since independence, aiming for comprehensive representation of the nation’s varied social demographics. This move, according to France 24 is expected to impact affirmative action policies significantly, as over two-thirds of India's population belongs to lower caste groups historically subjected to discrimination. With careful planning and execution, this census will reveal vital data to address societal disparities.

Air India Fleet Modernisation: Retrofit Programme Gains Momentum

Air India has surpassed the 50% mark in its $400 million cabin retrofit programme, enhancing passenger experiences across its fleet. This initiative, a key component of the airline’s five-year transformation strategy, is aimed at modernising both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. Despite industry-wide supply chain challenges, Air India is committed to completing the extensive upgrades by 2027, marking its integration with Vistara’s fleet, which adds complexity but potential for increased market competitiveness, reports Aviation A2Z .

In July 2023, heavy rains and flooding caused further distress when Ali Haider Dogar, a farmer, saw his crops submerged after India released water from the Sutlej River to address its own flood issues. Dogar described the situation as devastating, with losses totalling tens of thousands of pounds for his family alone.

Locals are now facing a dire future as India halted the treaty rights, following a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir attributed by India to Pakistani involvement. Along with the treaty’s suspension, India has cut trade ties, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and stopped visas for Pakistani nationals. In response, Pakistan too has halted all trade and shut down its airspace to India.

The implications are severe, especially as Khalid Khokhar, president of the Farmers’ Association, highlighted , “Water is our life. We can’t compromise on it.” Farmers like him see water security threatened, fearing a future where India might cause floods or prevent water from flowing to their lands. This fear hinges on the lack of shared data concerning floods or dam projects, which could put their crops at risk.

Authorities in Pakistan are viewing the treaty's halt as an existential threat, invoking language like “an act of war.” It’s significant to note that the Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, has endured three wars between the two nations and is hailed as a successful example of international water-sharing.

At the time of partition in 1947, all the river sources were in India, leading to complex negotiations before the treaty was established. Farmers are increasingly anxious as rainfall is already low and water levels are dwindling.

Both countries’ officials and experts are cautioning that while India cannot immediately halt water flows due to the treaty’s strict regulations on dam construction, potential future disregard for these obligations poses severe risks.

Pakistani water expert Naseer Memon added that ignoring treaty obligations would lead to a humanitarian crisis with millions affected. A senior official in Pakistan, who chose to remain unnamed, claimed that India had long been contemplating a treaty withdrawal, and the recent Kashmir incident was merely a pretext. He urged the international community to intervene in this escalating situation, saying, “We can’t sit and allow India to do it.”

Entre las medidas adoptadas, se cerrará el principal cruce fronterizo entre India y Pakistán, además de suspender un tratado de agua que permite compartir las aguas del sistema fluvial del Indo. También se anunciará la suspensión del programa de visa de la Asociación del Sur de Asia para la Cooperación Regional (SAARC), lo que prohíbe a los nacionales pakistaníes viajar a India. Aquellos que ya estaban en el país, deberán abandonar en un lapso de 48 horas.

Misri también indicó que los asesores de defensa en la alta comisión de Pakistán en Nueva Delhi fueron declarados personas no gratas y se les pidió que abandonaran la India. Además, se reducirá el número de personal en la alta comisión india en Islamabad, bajando de 55 a 30 integrantes.

El Primer Ministro de Pakistán, Shehbaz Sharif, ha convocado a una reunión del Comité Nacional de Seguridad para analizar la situación y reaccionar ante el comunicado del gobierno indio. Por su parte, el grupo Resistance Front (TRF) se atribuyó la responsabilidad del ataque a través de un mensaje en redes sociales, donde expresaron su descontento por la llegada de más de 85,000 "forasteros" a la región.

Entre las víctimas fatales se encuentran 25 indios y un nepalí, mientras que al menos 17 más resultaron heridos. La administración de Pakistán expresó su preocupación por la pérdida de vidas de los turistas y extendió sus condolencias a los afectados. En respuesta, el Primer Ministro de India, Narendra Modi, regresó prematuramente de su visita a Arabia Saudita, donde calificó el ataque como un "acto atroz" y se comprometió a llevar a los responsables ante la justicia.

El Ministro de Defensa de India, Rajnath Singh, advirtió que aquellos detrás de esta tragedia "recibirán una respuesta clara y contundente" y destacó que se perseguirán tanto a los perpetradores como a quienes planearon el ataque desde la retaguardia. La situación en Cachemira ha sido inestable desde que Delhi revocó su estatus de semi-autonomía en 2019, lo que ha resultado en un aumento en la violencia.

Debido al ataque, muchos turistas han comenzado a abandonar la región, sintiéndose inseguros. Un visitante, Monojit Debnath, expresó que aunque Cachemira es hermosa, su familia ya no se siente segura. La TRF también declaró que los individuos apuntados no eran turistas comunes, sino que estaban vinculados a agencias de seguridad indias. Por el momento, el gobierno de India no ha comentado sobre dicha afirmación.

Ecuador's election crisis: Gonzalez to contest results amid fraud allegations

Ecuador's leftist presidential challenger, Luisa Gonzalez, plans to contest the election results, alleging widespread fraud. Meanwhile, incumbent President Daniel Noboa secured a decisive win with 55.62% of the vote to Gonzalez's 44.38%. Independent observers affirmed the election was fair and transparent. Read more here .

Mexico confirms first human case of screwworm myiasis

Mexico's Health Ministry confirmed the country's first human case of screwworm-induced myiasis in a 77-year-old woman from Acacoyagua, Chiapas. She is stable and receiving antibiotics. Myiasis is a parasitic infection caused by fly larvae infesting open wounds. Read more here .

Colombia's Petro pauses FARC offensive to progress in peace talks

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Friday, April 18, ordered a halt to military operations against a FARC-EP faction to advance peace talks. The move follows the expiration of a ceasefire and will last until May 18. The decree aims to ensure safety along transit routes and support local agriculture. Read more here .

Asia

Robots join thousands of runners in Beijing’s futuristic half marathon

On April 19, dozens of humanoid robots joined human runners in a half marathon in Beijing’s E-Town, a tech hub. The 21-km event tested bipedal robots in real-world conditions, with some running autonomously and others remotely controlled. Spectators captured the moment on their phones. Read more here .

Pakistani Christian man to appeal death sentence for blasphemy

A Christian man sentenced to death for blasphemy in Jaranwala, Pakistan, will appeal the verdict, his lawyer said Saturday. The 36-year-old was accused of desecrating the Koran, sparking 2023 attacks on a Christian neighbourhood. His lawyer confirmed plans to challenge the ruling in the High Court. Read more here .

Earthquake of magnitude 5.8 strikes Afghanistan-Tajikistan border, GFZ says

A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border on Saturday, April 19, according to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). It occurred at a depth of 92 km (57 miles). Read more here .

Africa

Death toll in Nigeria attacks by herders rises to 56

The death toll from suspected herder attacks in Benue State, Nigeria, has been increased to 56, Governor Hyacinth Alia said Saturday during a visit to the affected areas. Police had earlier reported 17 deaths. The long-running violence has disrupted food supplies from the key agricultural region. Read more here .

Uganda plans law to allow military prosecution of civilians

Uganda plans to introduce a law allowing military tribunals to try civilians, despite a Supreme Court ban in January. Critics accuse the government of using military courts for politically motivated prosecutions, which it denies. The law could see opposition figure Kizza Besigye returned to a military court. Read more here .

South Africa reaffirms 'One China' policy, instructs Taiwan to relocate office

South Africa has asked Taiwan to move its liaison office from Pretoria to Johannesburg to reaffirm its commitment to the “One China” policy. Minister Ronald Lamola said the move doesn’t change Taiwan’s diplomatic status, as formal ties ended in 1997 when South Africa recognised the PRC. Read more here .

Bangladesh has escalated its diplomatic discourse by demanding a formal apology from Pakistan for the atrocities committed during the 1971 Liberation War, amidst a backdrop of resumed talks after 15 years, Independent reports. Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin highlighted these historical grievances while discussing a $4.52 billion compensation claim regarding pre-1971 assets during negotiations held in Dhaka. 

Model allegedly blackmails Saudi envoy

Former beauty queen Meghna Alam was arrested in Bangladesh for allegedly attempting to extort $5 million from the former Saudi ambassador through a honey-trap scheme. According to The Star , the actions were characterised by police officials as jeopardising diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, a key ally due to its significant economic assistance and employment of Bangladeshi workers. 

390 arrested by Bangladesh army

In a concerted operation conducted by various divisions of the Bangladesh Army between April 10 and 17, 390 individuals were arrested in connection with serious crimes, alongside the seizure of illegal arms and narcotics. This extensive operation aimed to uphold public safety during the celebrations of Pahela Baishakh, demonstrating an active stance against criminal activities, Daily Observer reports. 

India rejects Bangladesh's claims on West Bengal violence

India's Ministry of External Affairs has firmly dismissed Bangladesh's comments regarding recent communal violence in West Bengal, labelling them as 'unwarranted'. Observer reports that this diplomatic clash arose following allegations from Bangladeshi officials concerning their supposed involvement in the violence, which have been categorically refuted by Dhaka. Both governments continue to stress the importance of bilateral relations.

Bangladesh to establish body for trade negotiations Post-LDC graduation

In preparation for its upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November 2026, Bangladesh plans to form a dedicated body comprising government officials and experts to facilitate trade negotiations. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus emphasised the need for constant oversight during this transitional phase to ensure stable economic progression and strengthen Bangladesh's position as a regional manufacturing hub, according to Fibre2Fashion .

Officials say most of the returnees crossed through the Torkham border, which links Pakistan to Afghanistan.

These Afghan families did not have legal papers or refugee cards. On April 12 alone, more than 4,000 people crossed back into Afghanistan.

Every day, buses and trucks have been carrying people to the border. Security officials have been watching closely, and local authorities have helped to manage the process. People were allowed to take personal belongings, such as clothes, household items, and even livestock.

At the border, each person goes through ID checks and fingerprint scanning before crossing. Afghan staff are helping on the other side by giving temporary shelter and some basic aid.

Many families said the journey was hard. Some had little money or no access to transport. Others said they had to leave behind their jobs and homes.

Meanwhile, human rights groups have asked both Pakistan and Afghanistan to treat returnees with dignity. The UN has raised concerns about how the mass return will affect border areas in Afghanistan, especially as many people now need food, shelter, and medicine.

Pakistan says the move does not affect Afghan refugees who are legally registered and have permission to stay.

The return of undocumented Afghans is expected to continue in the coming weeks, The News reports.

“This is a way to turn a problem into progress,” he said. “We’re not just wasting energy—we’re finding a smart use for it.”

This plan is part of a bigger goal to grow Pakistan’s digital economy. The country already has millions of people using cryptocurrency and has one of the largest groups of freelance workers in the world .

To help with this idea, the founder of Binance, Changpeng Zhao, has joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as an advisor and is expected to help build better rules for crypto and teach young Pakistanis new digital skills.

Experts believe t hat with the right training and support, Pakistan could become a strong player in blockchain and digital finance.

On April 6 alone, over 876 people holding Afghan Citizen Cards were returned to Afghanistan, according to authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

In Punjab, over 1,000 more Afghan citizens have been arrested and taken to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for deportation.

According to sources, they are expected to be officially sent back soon.

Pakistan’s deportation campaign is happening in phases.

So far, more than 4,100 people have already been sent back , and nearly 6,000 more are in holding centres waiting to be deported.

Punjab Police say they have set up 46 holding centres across the province, including five in Lahore, where more than 1,800 people are staying now.

In Attock, police have detained over 700 Afghan migrants, including women and children . Around 365 of them have already been sent to the border, while the rest are being taken care of at a temporary camp.

In Rawalpindi, police are also arresting Afghans with citizen cards. Over 130 people have been moved to camps so far.

Punjab’s top police officer, Usman Anwar, said, “We are carrying out this process in a safe, respectful, and legal way.”

He added that police are working daily to make sure all undocumented foreigners are sent back properly.

Earlier in March, Islamabad declared that 800,000 Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC) would be invalidated, marking the second phase of a sweeping deportation drive. The first phase had already pushed an estimated 800,000 undocumented Afghans back across the border.

The raid on her restaurant by police was a turning point. Since then, the ten Afghan women she employed have stayed home, afraid of being rounded up and sent back to a country where women's freedoms have been stripped away under Taliban rule, including bans on education, many jobs, and even visiting public spaces like parks.

"I have no one to return to. The Taliban won't accept us," Raufi said, her voice breaking with emotion.

Kenyan woman sentenced to death in Vietnam

A 37-year-old Kenyan woman, Margaret Nduta, has been sentenced to death in Vietnam after being convicted of drug trafficking. The ruling was handed down by the People’s Court in Ho Chi Minh City on March 6, following her arrest in July 2023 for smuggling more than two kilograms of cocaine through a local airport. Nduta passed undetected through three major international airports—Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Kenya, Bole International Airport in Ethiopia, and Hamad International Airport in Qatar—before being caught in Vietnam. Read more here .

Women leading Africa’s tech revolution

Cameroon-based Data Girl Technologies is transforming the tech industry by empowering young African women with coding education, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Co-founder Eposi Frida emphasised the importance of equipping women with the necessary skills to secure jobs or launch their own businesses. Read more here .

Burundi’s first plastic surgeon

Dr. Clovis Paulin Baramburiye, Burundi’s first plastic and reconstructive surgeon, is providing critical medical care in a country with limited access to specialized surgical procedures. After years of training in China, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe, he now serves as a consultant at the University Hospital while teaching at the University of Burundi. His work includes reconstructive procedures for burn victims, cleft lip corrections, and treating severe infections. Read more here .

Latin America

Secret crematorium in Mexico

Authorities in Jalisco, Mexico, discovered a secret crematorium containing 200 pairs of shoes and burned human remains, raising concerns that it was used to dispose of missing persons. The discovery was made by Warrior Searchers of Jalisco, a group of families searching for their loved ones. The site is believed to have been operated by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, notorious for its involvement in drug and human trafficking. Read more here .

Cuba’s electrical grid collapses

Cuba’s national electrical grid failed late on Friday, plunging the country into darkness. A failure at an electrical substation in Havana knocked out power to a large part of western Cuba, including the capital. Reports indicate that much of the country’s 10 million residents were affected. Read more here .

Magnitude 5.5 earthquake hits Southern Mexico

A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Oaxaca, Mexico, triggering seismic alarms in the capital, Mexico City. The earthquake occurred near San Miguel Achiutla at a depth of 64 km. Authorities activated emergency protocols, but no major damage or casualties have been reported. Read more here .

Asia

Chad, Bangladesh, and Pakistan ranked world’s most polluted countries

A new IQAir report found that air pollution remains a severe issue, with Chad, Bangladesh, and Pakistan ranking as the most polluted countries in 2024. Chad’s air pollution level is more than 18 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safety limit, followed by Bangladesh and Pakistan, which exceed the threshold by over 15 and 14 times, respectively. Read more here .

Pakistan’s ambassador deported from the US

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan , KK Ahsan Wagan, was denied entry into the United States and sent back from Los Angeles airport despite having a valid visa. US immigration officials cited controversial visa references as the reason for his deportation. Read more here .

Former Philippine President Duterte arrested for crimes against humanity

Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, was arrested at Manila’s international airport upon his return from Hong Kong. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for his arrest, citing crimes against humanity related to his violent anti-drug campaign, which led to an estimated 12,000 to 30,000 deaths. Read more here .

Wagan was reportedly on a personal trip when US immigration officials stopped him at the airport. After reviewing his documents, they refused to let him enter the country.

He was then put on a flight back to his departure point.

According to reports , the US immigration system flagged “controversial visa references” linked to Wagan, although American authorities have not publicly explained the reason for his deportation.

A Pakistani Foreign Ministry official confirmed the situation , saying, “Ambassador KK Wagan was deported from the US. He had an immigration objection which led to his deportation.”

The government in Islamabad is now looking into the matter, and the Foreign Ministry has asked its Los Angeles consulate to investigate. Officials are also considering recalling Wagan to Pakistan for further questioning.

Wagan is a senior diplomat with years of experience in Pakistan’s foreign service. Before being posted in Turkmenistan, he worked at the country’s embassy in Nepal and later held a key position at the Los Angeles consulate.

The incident comes shortly after reports that the US government, under President Donald Trump, is planning new travel restrictions on Pakistan.

If these measures are implemented, they could make it harder for Pakistani citizens to enter the US.

The report found that Chad had the highest pollution level, with its air containing more than 18 times the amount of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) considered safe by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Bangladesh ranked second, with pollution levels more than 15 times higher than the WHO guideline, while Pakistan followed closely, exceeding the safe limit by more than 14 times.

Other countries with dangerously high pollution levels included the Democratic Republic of the Congo and India.

The report also showed that 91% of the countries studied failed to meet WHO’s air quality standards.

Frank Hammes, Global CEO of IQAir , emphasised the urgent need for action.

“Air pollution remains a critical threat to both human health and environmental stability, yet vast populations remain unaware of their exposure levels,” he said.

He added that air quality data is essential in shaping policies and protecting people.

The report also highlighted the lack of air quality monitoring in some regions, especially in Africa, where there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

According to the report, air pollution in Latin America worsened due to wildfires in the Amazon rainforest.

Meanwhile, Oceania was named the cleanest region, with most of its cities meeting WHO’s air quality guidelines.

Aidan Farrow, Senior Air Quality Scientist at Greenpeace International, warned that failing to act on pollution today will have long-term consequences.

 “The World Air Quality Report should be a rallying call for urgent and concerted international efforts to cut pollutant emissions,” he said.

IQAir also announced an initiative to install air quality monitors in over one million schools worldwide.

The organisation believes this will help provide more people with real-time pollution data and push for cleaner air globally.

The sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the ban is part of a broader review of countries' security and vetting risks. While Afghanistan and Pakistan are expected to be affected, other countries may also be added to the list, though the specifics remain unclear.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced Tuesday that Starlink’s registration process is underway in Pakistan. According to The Express Tribune , this follows a meeting between PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman and the Starlink team at GSMA Mobile World Congress 2025, where they discussed expanding affordable broadband to underserved areas to bridge the digital divide and drive digital transformation.

Two suicide bombings kill 9 people and injure 25 in Pakistan

A Pakistani Taliban-affiliated group claimed responsibility for a Bannu attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alleging dozens of security forces were killed. The military did not confirm casualties, but Bannu District Hospital reported at least nine deaths, including four children, per The Washington Post . Following two blasts, gunfire continued, and plumes of smoke rose, police officer Zahid Khan said. Hospital spokesman Muhammad Noman noted severe damage to homes, causing casualties.

Gold rates climb in Pakistan as global investors flock to safe-haven asset

​On Tuesday, gold prices in Pakistan rose for the second consecutive day, reflecting a global shift toward safe-haven assets. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price per tola (approximately 11.7 grammes) increased by Rs4,800 to reach Rs306,300 ($1,095.30), while 10 grammes of gold rose by Rs4,115 to Rs262,602. Additionally, 22-karat gold climbed by Rs3,772 to Rs240,727 per 10 grammes. Silver prices also saw an uptick, with per tola rates rising by Rs45 to Rs3,315, and 10-grammes rates increasing by Rs39 to Rs2,842 ($10.16), The News reports.​

Pakistan condemns Israel’s blocking of aid into Gaza

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s move to block humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it a violation of international law that threatens the ceasefire. It urged global action to ensure unrestricted aid access and hold Israel accountable for collective punishment. The ministry also reiterated support for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as Palestine’s capital. Meanwhile, Gaza’s municipal union warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis after 15 months of Israeli attacks, reports Prensa Latina .

Chinese investor confidence in energy transition

Pakistan’s energy sector faces challenges despite government efforts to attract investment. A 600MW solar project in Muzaffargarh failed to secure bids in January 2024, with investors citing political instability and high risks. Even China, Pakistan’s top energy investor, showed no interest. According to Dialogue Earth , Between 2005 and 2024, China invested nearly $68 billion in Pakistan, with 74% allocated to energy. Under CPEC, $21.3 billion went to power projects, primarily coal-based. Of the 13GW added, 8GW came from coal, while solar and wind contributed just 1.4GW. As CPEC moves into its second phase, unresolved issues from the first phase are slowing progress.

During a podcast conversation with Joe Rogan, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recounted a near-death sentence he faced in Pakistan due to legal claims asserting that Facebook had hosted blasphemous material, specifically a depiction of Prophet Mohammed, as reported by News18 . He said, “There are laws in different countries that we disagree with. For example, there was a point at which someone was trying to get me sentenced to death in Pakistan because someone on Facebook had a picture where they had a drawing of Prophet Mohammed, and someone said, ‘That’s blasphemy in our culture.’ They sued me and opened this criminal proceeding. I don’t know exactly where it went because I’m just not planning to go to Pakistan, so I was not that worried about it," he continued.

IMF praised Pakistan's economic reforms: Finance minister

Pakistan's Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb revealed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has acknowledged Pakistan's economic reforms and its journey towards macroeconomic stability. Sharing insights from his interaction with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva during a conference in Karachi, he pointed out advancements in taxation, energy, and the management of state-owned enterprises. Dunya News reported that he attributed these improvements to sound policymaking. Furthermore, Aurangzeb underscored the critical nature of addressing climate change, advocating for a policy framework enabling government facilitation while encouraging active participation from stakeholders, especially in the insurance sector, to promote sustainable economic development amidst financial hurdles.

Pakistan resumes US soybean imports after two-year hiatus

Pakistan has resumed imports of US soybeans after a two-year suspension, with an estimated 265,000 tonnes expected to arrive shortly. This development holds significant implications for the poultry sector, as it ensures a steady supply of high-quality feed. According to Profit , Zain Mahmood, Chairman of the All-Pakistan Solvent Extractors Association, indicated that this move will enhance feed conversion ratios and profitability for poultry farmers, while also reducing dependence on imports and bolstering domestic production capabilities. Experts predict that the re-establishment of these imports will stabilise feed costs and promote the growth and sustainability of the poultry industry.

Pakistan's policy on terrorism, foreign occupation remains unchanged

Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its stance on terrorism and foreign occupation amidst media misrepresentation. During a briefing at the UN Security Council according to The News , the country highlighted the urgency of addressing the underlying causes of terrorism, namely poverty and foreign occupation, with a particular focus on Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan, in collaboration with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), supports a holistic counterterrorism strategy that encompasses conflict resolution and draws a clear distinction between acts of terrorism and legitimate struggles for self-determination, in alignment with UN Resolution 60/288 concerning the Global Counterterrorism Strategy.

Anita Karim, Pakistan’s first female Mixed Martial Arts fighter

On a different note, Anita Karim has emerged as Pakistan's pioneering female mixed martial arts (MMA) athlete. Her groundbreaking journey serves as a testament to the increasing representation of women in sports that have traditionally been male-dominated in Pakistan. Karim's successes continue to motivate and empower young female athletes to pursue their aspirations in martial arts, AAJ News reports.

This decision follows a meeting led by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq on January 26, where the National Assembly's finance committee approved the bill without any objections from members of either the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party or the ruling coalition.

This 138% pay increase aims to bring parliamentarians' salaries in line with federal secretaries' earnings.

This raises eyebrows, particularly as the nation experiences a significant economic downturn, thereby sparking discussions regarding the timing and implications of such a substantial salary increase for legislators.

This is the third time since 2017 that Pakistan has been banned from world football. FIFA says the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) must agree to a new constitution that ensures fair and democratic elections.

Until they do, the suspension will remain .

Pakistan’s football body has been in crisis for years. In 2021, FIFA banned Pakistan after a group of local officials took control of the PFF headquarters from FIFA’s appointed committee.

That ban was lifted in 2022 when FIFA confirmed its officials were back in charge.

Pakistan was also banned in 2017 for similar reasons, making this another setback for the country’s football.

Until the PFF meets FIFA’s demands, Pakistan’s teams will not be allowed to play in any international tournaments.

"A case was filed against Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi on the charge of establishing a university, and after a year-long trial, they were sentenced. Imran Khan was sentenced to fourteen years of rigorous imprisonment, while Bushra Bibi received seven years. Today, we have filed appeals against this in the Islamabad High Court," Khalid told AFP.

Since his arrest in August 2023, Khan has faced around 200 cases, which he claims are politically motivated.

This latest conviction marks the fourth time Khan has been found guilty, although two of his previous convictions were overturned, and the sentences in the other two cases were suspended.

Imran Khan, 72, and Bushra Bibi were convicted in the early weeks of January by a special graft court. Khan received a 14-year prison sentence, while his wife was sentenced to seven years.

The charges stem from allegations of corruption and corrupt practices related to the Al-Qadir Trust, a welfare foundation established by the couple.

From labour helping on farms, mechanics, and cooking to selling in the markets, children in the village of Abdullah Goth on the outskirts of Karachi do it all.

Apart from the non-profit Roshan Pakistan Foundation school catering to over 2, 500 people in the village, there has been no public or private school to nurture the curious minds of these children.

According to Humaira Bachal, an education advocate, the absence of government infrastructure and GDP allocation for education induces the prevalence of young workers in the village.

"Government infrastructure does not exist in places where there needs to be a school. And GDP that should be allocated to education is not being allocated, and this is why according to reports, we are going through an education crisis and we are not doing enough about it," she said. "Due to the economic crisis, education is no longer our [Pakistan families] top priority, so children are forced to become the primary breadwinners, whether they want to or not. As a result, leaving school becomes the first option."

Despite the obvious blurry lines in the hope of rural areas in Pakistan ever receiving the kind of education witnessed in the cities, the children in Abdullah Goth are optimistic.

10-year-old vegetable seller Taimoor Luqman said, "I will study and get an education, and when I grow up, I want to become a doctor."

On the other hand, Kamran Imran, a bike mechanic told AFP "I am going to learn new skills [at school and at work], and when I grow up, things will be different. I used to work all day, but then school started. Now, I attend school in the morning and work in the afternoon.

Pakistan's literacy rate remains low compared to many other nations. In 2022, literacy rates in Pakistan varied significantly, with Islamabad boasting a high of 96%, while the Torghar District had only 23%.

Gender and regional disparities are evident, with female literacy in tribal areas at just 9.5%, whereas Azad Kashmir enjoys a rate of 91%.

Additionally, Pakistan has the world's second-largest population of out-of-school children, totalling 22.8 million, second only to Nigeria.

Growing up in a society where women are often tied to conventional roles, her choice felt rebellious but with the support of her family, she carved her way up into becoming one of the world’s youngest recognised Pakistani filmmakers.

“Getting into filmmaking felt like a rebellion, and it still feels like that. It was hard to convince people to trust a young woman in leadership roles. There was no roadmap for any of us,” she told GSW’s Wonder Hagan.

Promoting bold narratives for women

Bushra’s work challenges stereotypes and highlights the inequalities and challenges faced by particularly women in society. Through 17 short films and campaigns Guria, Chimera and Dear Sweet Nightmares, the young Pakistani filmmaker is redefining filmmaking in the South Asian region.

Her campaign, Guria which has gained global popularity, for instance, focuses on South Asian brides and weddings. Bushra explained that weddings which portray rich tradition and culture have over time shifted focus and become more of a spectacle rather than a big day for the brides.

Many South Asian brides become ‘puppets’ during their own weddings, having to satisfy family and society’s expectations of how the event should be rather than how they want their day to turn out.

Through her work, she questions how brides are often reduced to their attire and societal expectations. “Every step a bride takes is dictated and judged. Her personal desires are ignored to put on this huge spectacle,” she explained.

Redefining Filmmaking in Pakistan

Bushra’s work is also a platform to amplify Pakistani stories.

“The world wants to see Pakistani narratives. There is an audience out there for Pakistani cinema and art,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of collaboration to support local artists. “We need international co-productions and better distribution channels. There are so many Pakistani artists who have gained global recognition, and the impact of their work is massive,” she explained.

Recognition and works

Bushra’s work has gained global recognition on platforms including Forbes and the Flaunt Magazines. As one of seven Pakistanis recognised in the Forbes 30 under 30 Awards for her craft, she expressed excitement. Despite challenges, she finds the recognition humbling.

“It’s truly humbling, and I’m blessed. I hope to create more and stronger narratives that are unapologetically bold and honest,” she added.

Investing in future generations

Beyond filmmaking, Bushra runs a charity school with about 500 students from underprivileged communities. “These kids come from places where even getting an education is seen as a taboo or not important enough,” she said.

While the school provides conventional education, she’s working on adding a vocational training centre. “I want to teach them skills I’ve learned, so they can also venture into creative industries,” she explained.

Her goal is to leave an impact through both her art and her community work. “I want to encourage people to be unapologetically honest with their craft and create strong narratives that exist in Pakistan,” she said.

Watch her full interview with GSW here:

This data was based on indicators including economic participation, educational attainment, health and survival and political empowerment.

Majority of these gaps are attributed to poverty, child marriage and gender stereotypes but beyond that, Pakistani filmmaker Bushra Sultan believes patriarchy plays a huge role in all of these and largely, its as a result of their orientation from birth.

According to her, the root of the problem often lies in how boys are raised at home.

“Patriarchy begins from women. It’s how we raise our sons,” Sultan said, explaining how societal norms shape boys from an early age.

She pointed to South Asian societies, where boys are sometimes treated as superior simply for being male.

“When you tell a boy that he is a king for being born as a boy and that he is entitled to do whatever, that is where the problem lies,” she added.

Sultan believes this sense of entitlement is the root cause of many issues. While she acknowledges that this doesn’t apply to everyone, she highlights a segment of society where such attitudes prevail.

“I’m talking about a fragment of society with such men,” she clarified, highlighting how these cultural practices contribute to larger issues of gender inequality.

Watch the full interview here:

The fifth most populous country in the world, with the second-largest Muslim population?

A conflict-prone country? Probably with some really regressive culture and limited freedom?

You could say the news covers some part of what Pakistan looks like but the true diversity and complexity of the country is never really covered in its entirety.

So what does Pakistan look like? A brief conversation with Forbes 30 under 30 award winner and Pakistani filmmaker and creative director Bushra Sultan gave some perspective.

“Pakistan is actually not that regressive,” she said.

“How we are represented in the mainstream media is not what Pakistan is. There are different segments of the society. Some are liberal, some are very liberal, some are conservative, so it’s a mix of all sorts of people,” she added.

Pakistan, home to over 240 million people boasts a rich history, vibrant cultures, and beautiful landscapes.

From the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro to the towering peaks of the Karakoram range, Pakistan’s heritage and geography are as diverse as its people. Yet, much of this is overshadowed by negative narratives in international media, which often focus on issues like terrorism or political instability.

Pakistan’s society is a blend of various ideologies and lifestyles. In urban centres like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, there are art scenes, modern businesses, and progressive educational institutions. These cities reflect a more liberal and dynamic side of the country. On the other hand, there are rural areas where traditional values hold strong.

Watch the full interview here:

According to the park’s director, Syed Amjad Hussain Zaidi, Sonia died of an apparent heart attack.

"I received a call at around 6 am from one of our elephant trainers who said that Sonia was not standing on her feet, so I called the zoologist Dr. Amir. We came here at around 06:30 am, and after a checkup by Dr. Amir Ismail, he declared her dead. When I asked him about the reason, he told me that it was a sudden death, like a heart attack," he told AFP.

“Sonia was doing well at her last health check-up about 10 days ago,” Zaidi said. He also noted that Austrian animal welfare group Four Paws had visited her at the end of November.

He disclosed that an autopsy will be conducted in the coming days to determine the cause of death. 

Sonia and Madhubala were separated in 2009 after being captured from the wild and brought to Pakistan alongside their two other sisters, Noor Jehan and Malika. While Sonia and Malika were sent to Karachi Safari Park, Noor Jehan and Madhubala were placed at Karachi Zoo.

The death of Noor Jehan in April 2023 drew criticism of Karachi Zoo’s animal care practices from Four Paws, which called for better conditions for the remaining elephants. This led to Madhubala’s transfer to the safari park, where she joined Sonia and Malika just last month.

The reunion was short-lived, as Sonia’s sudden death now leaves only two of the original four sisters alive. “Today, after the death of Sonia, we have two elephants left,” Zaidi said.

"Higher secondary schools will be transferred to online learning in Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. Fifty percent of the workforce -- both public and private sectors -- are asked to work remotely, and meetings will be held on Zoom. And wearing masks is made mandatory. These four steps are being notified," she said according to AFP.

Punjab's capital, Lahore, along with other major cities like Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala, has been enveloped in thick smog , causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to spike to hazardous levels.

On the day of the announcement, Lahore's AQI exceeded 1,100, far above the level of 300, which is considered dangerous.

The smog, a mix of fog and pollutants from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and crop burning, has led to a significant increase in respiratory illnesses and hospital visits.

"More than 900 patients, including children and the elderly who have sore throats, respiratory diseases, and difficulties in breathing, have been admitted to hospital," the minister added.

Additionally, a "smog war room" has been established to coordinate efforts across various departments to combat the pollution crisis. This includes measures to control the burning of agricultural waste, manage traffic, and possibly induce artificial rainfall.