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			<title>Trump lands in Beijing for high-stakes China visit</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607851/trump-says-he-does-not-need-chinas-help-to-end-iran-war</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607851/trump-says-he-does-not-need-chinas-help-to-end-iran-war#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 06:36:41 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[US president is accompanied by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Elon Musk to attend business summit with Xi Jinping]]>
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				<![CDATA[United States President Donald Trump landed in Beijing, accompanied by an entourage that included Nvidia&#39;s Jensen Huang and Elon Musk, on ​Wednesday after pledging to urge China&#39;s Xi Jinping to &quot;open up&quot; to US business at the start of their two-day summit.

He was welcomed by Chinese dignitaries, a tightly choreographed formation of military honour guard and dozens of Chinese students waving US and Chinese flags as he disembarked Air Force One in the waning hours of twilight on Wednesday.

Pausing midway down the red carpet as the students chanted &quot;welcome, welcome, warm welcome&quot; in Mandarin, he punched the air and smiled broadly ​before departing in his limousine.



.@POTUS proceeds down the red carpet in Beijing &mdash; briefly giving his signature fist pump to the assembled Military Honor Guard and Chinese youth flag wavers pic.twitter.com/aDBQdDjsx8
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 13, 2026





President Trump&#39;s motorcade departs Beijing Capital Airport for the hotel.

Tomorrow, @POTUS will participate in the official state arrival ceremony, meet with President Xi Jinping, sit for multiple interviews, and hold several other official events. pic.twitter.com/z9MvA3FIC1
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 13, 2026



Trump is seeking to snag some economic wins on the &zwnj;first visit by a US president to China in nearly a decade and maintain a fragile trade truce to prop up public approval ratings bruised by his war with Iran.

The CEOs accompanying Trump are drawn mainly from companies seeking to resolve business issues with China, such as Nvidia, which has struggled to get regulatory permission to sell its powerful H200 artificial intelligence chips there.

&quot;I will be ​asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to &#39;open up&#39; China so that these brilliant people can work their magic,&quot; he said in a post on ⁠Truth Social, referring to the CEO delegation. &quot;I will make that my very first request.&quot;



pic.twitter.com/ZyQvQlAE79
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 13, 2026



Asked about Trump&#39;s post, Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for China&#39;s foreign ministry, said Beijing stands ready to &quot;expand cooperation, manage differences ​and inject more stability and certainty into the turbulent world&quot;.

Trump&#39;s two days of meetings will include a grand reception at The Great Hall of the People, a tour of UNESCO heritage site Temple of Heaven and a state banquet.

Apart from trade, the talks will cover a host of sensitive subjects from the Iran war to US arms sales to Taiwan, the democratically governed island claimed by China.

Trump is widely expected to encourage ​China to convince Tehran to make a deal with Washington to end the conflict, though he has said he did not think he would need its help.

China reiterated on Wednesday its strong opposition to US ​arms sales to Taiwan, with the status of a $14-billion package awaiting Trump&#39;s approval still unclear.

US demands, rhetoric, lack of good faith obstacles to diplomacy: Iranian FM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the US&#39; maximalist approach, provocative rhetoric, and lack of good faith and sincerity were the primary obstacles standing between the current state of conflict and any prospect of a definitive end to the war and a potential agreement, according to Mehr News Agency.

Araghchi made the remarks during a meeting with Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik, Deputy Foreign Minister of Norway, who travelled to Tehran for the talks.



The Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Kravik , who is paying an official visit to Tehran, has held talks with the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran @araghchi. pic.twitter.com/xcaScKhyVa
&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) May 12, 2026


During the meeting, Araghchi confirmed that Iran, as a coastal state of the Strait of Hormuz, is currently in consultation to develop regulations governing arrangements for the strait based on international law. The statement formalises what senior Iranian officials have clearly signalled in recent weeks &mdash; that Tehran intends to establish a new legal order for the waterway.

Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Kravik underscored the necessity of establishing durable peace and stability in the region and announced Norway&#39;s readiness to contribute in strengthening diplomacy, providing consultations on maritime safety, and supporting environmental protection efforts.

Iran rejects Kuwait&#39;s &#39;baseless claims&#39; of IRGC infiltration 

The Iranian foreign ministry condemned the Kuwaiti government&rsquo;s detention of individuals who, according to the IRNA news agency, were performing their duties within the framework of a routine maritime patrol mission and had entered Kuwait&rsquo;s territorial waters due to a navigation system malfunction.

According to the IRNA, the ministry announced that it expected Kuwaiti authorities to refrain from hasty comments and baseless claims while pursuing the existing issues through official channels.



Iran rejects Kuwait&rsquo;s baseless claim regarding 4 Iranian citizenshttps://t.co/3TZGWzjJHq pic.twitter.com/u3V4x49tiQ
&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) May 13, 2026


It also requested granting the Iranian embassy in Kuwait access to the detained Iranian nationals in accordance with international legal norms, as well as their immediate release.

Saudi Arabia condemns IRGC infiltration

Saudi Arabia&#39;s foreign ministry denounced what it termed &quot;the infiltration carried out by an armed group from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of the Islamic Republic of Iran into Kuwait&rsquo;s Bubiyan Island.&quot;



#Statement | The Foreign Ministry expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s strongest condemnation and denunciation of the infiltration carried out by an armed group from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of the Islamic Republic of Iran into Kuwait&rsquo;s Bubiyan Island, with the&hellip; pic.twitter.com/t2fVFd4LT6
&mdash; Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) May 12, 2026


&quot;The Ministry stresses the Kingdom&#39;s categorical rejection of such hostilities that violate the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait.&quot;

Iran discusses Strait of Hormuz transit safety in talks with Azerbaijan

The top of diplomats of Iran and Azerbaijan held talks over the phone on Wednesday to discuss regional developments, as Tehran said it is seeking to develop arrangements aimed at strengthening and facilitating safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

A statement by the Iranian Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi discussed with his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov the latest developments related to diplomacy, regional issues and bilateral relations.

The discussions came a day after Araghchi said Tehran is holding consultations to develop executive arrangements aimed at strengthening and facilitating safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.

He made the remarks during a meeting in Tehran on Tuesday with Norway&rsquo;s Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik.

According to the ministry, Araghchi described what he called the United States&rsquo; &ldquo;maximalist approach,&rdquo; threatening rhetoric and &ldquo;lack of good faith&rdquo; as the main obstacles to a permanent end to the war and any potential agreement.

He also said the &ldquo;main source&rdquo; of the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz was the US and Israeli military attacks against Iran, followed by repeated ceasefire violations and the continued blockade of Iranian ports.

Italy to move minesweepers closer to Hormuz, rules out new military mission

Italy is preparing to move two minesweepers closer to the Strait of Hormuz as a precaution while ruling out any immediate request for a new military mission, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told lawmakers on Wednesday.

Crosetto said the ships would be repositioned in stages &mdash; first to the eastern Mediterranean and then to the Red Sea &mdash; within existing missions already authorised by parliament.

&ldquo;As a purely precautionary measure&hellip; we are arranging the minesweepers to be positioned relatively closer to the Strait,&rdquo; Crosetto said.

The ministers sought to reassure parliament that Italy is not expanding its military role without oversight, even as tensions threaten a key global shipping route.

&ldquo;We do not want to ask to authorise a new military mission in the Gulf,&rdquo; Tajani said, adding that any eventual participation in an international coalition would come &ldquo;only after the definitive cessation of hostilities.&rdquo;

Crosetto stressed that any new operation would require strict conditions: &ldquo;A new military mission envisages first a real truce, then a legal framework and finally the authorisation of Parliament,&rdquo; he said, describing the situation as &ldquo;fragile and precarious.&rdquo;

The session focused on international efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Italy, the ministers said, is acting within the prerogatives of existing foreign missions and sharing its plans &ldquo;with the utmost transparency.&rdquo;

Crosetto highlighted the scale of a potential multinational response, saying about 40 countries are considering contributing to securing the waterway, with 24 already signalling willingness to provide specialised capabilities.

Contributions under discussion include ships, support units and mine-neutralisation personnel from European and allied countries, alongside existing deployments already in the region.

Crosetto said parallel initiatives, including one promoted by the US, are developing alongside the broader effort. &ldquo;It is a matter of separate initiatives at the moment, but they will necessarily have to exchange information and coordinate,&rdquo; he said.

Chinese crude oil tanker seen sailing via Strait of Hormuz

A Chinese crude oil tanker transited the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, according to vessel-tracking data.

The tanker, identified as Yuan Hua Hu, was seen sailing past Iran&rsquo;s Larak Island before continuing its voyage, according to MarineTraffic data cited in the report.

The vessel is reported to have a Chinese owner and crew.

The development comes as US President Donald Trump is visiting China from Wednesday to Friday.

Tehran&#39;s message to Beijing

Iran&#39;s Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, outlined Tehran&#39;s diplomatic communication with Beijing in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran.

According to Mehr, Fazli said China had worked to keep the path to dialogue open through multiple channels &mdash; including consultations with key regional actors, a joint peace initiative with Pakistan that helped lay the groundwork for the Islamabad talks, and a four-point proposal advanced by President Xi Jinping.

The ambassador stressed that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement between Iran and China carries significance well beyond its economic dimensions. &quot;This document is not only about investment, oil, infrastructure, or trade,&quot; he said. &quot;It is about how Iran defines its place in a changing global order.&quot;

He added that long-term cooperation with China creates a form of diplomatic strategic depth for Iran &mdash; one that allows Tehran to demonstrate concretely that it has real options, important partners, and alternative capacities in the face of US pressure.

Trump does not need China&#39;s help

Trump said on Tuesday he does not think he will need China&#39;s help to end the war with Iran, even as hopes for a lasting peace deal dwindled and Tehran tightened its grip over the Strait of Hormuz.

Ahead of a high-stakes summit in Beijing, Trump said he did not think he would need to enlist Xi Jinping to resolve the conflict, which has continued to block maritime traffic that normally provides one-fifth of the world&#39;s oil supply.

&quot;I don&#39;t think we need any help with Iran. We&#39;ll win it one way or the other, peacefully or otherwise,&quot; he told reporters.

More than one month after a tenuous ceasefire took effect, the two sides have made no progress on an agreement to end hostilities.

Iran, meanwhile, has appeared to firm up its control over the Strait of Hormuz, cutting deals with Iraq and Pakistan to ship oil and liquefied natural gas from the region, according to sources with knowledge of the matter.

Other countries are exploring similar deals, sources said, in a move that could normalise Tehran&#39;s control of the waterway on a more permanent basis.

Read: Trump hails Pakistan&#39;s &#39;great mediation&#39; role

The Trump administration said on Tuesday that senior US and Chinese officials had agreed last month that no country should be able to charge tolls on traffic through the region, in an effort to project consensus on the issue ahead of the summit.

China, which maintains ties with Iran and remains a major buyer of its oil, did not dispute that characterisation.

Trump is due to discuss the war with Xi during meetings scheduled for Thursday to Friday, and is widely expected to encourage China to convince Tehran to make a deal with Washington to end the conflict.

US demands include ending Iran&#39;s nuclear program and lifting its chokehold on the strait.

Iran has responded with demands of its own, including compensation for war damage, the lifting of the US blockade, and an end to the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, where US ally Israel is fighting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants. Trump dismissed those positions as &quot;garbage&quot; on Monday.

Price of war

As the costs of the war mount, Trump said on Tuesday that Americans&rsquo; financial struggles did not influence his thinking on the Iran war.

The Labour Department said earlier in the day that US consumer inflation continued to accelerate in April, with the annual rate posting its largest gain in three years. The data showed food prices surged, while rental costs and airfares also climbed.

Asked by a reporter to what extent Americans&rsquo; economic pain was motivating him to strike a deal, Trump said: &ldquo;Not even a little bit.&rdquo;

&quot;The only thing that matters, when I&rsquo;m talking about Iran, they can&rsquo;t have a nuclear weapon,&quot; Trump said before leaving the White House for his trip to China. &quot;I don&rsquo;t think about Americans&rsquo; financial situation. I don&rsquo;t think about anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. That&rsquo;s all. That&#39;s the only thing that motivates me.&quot;

The remarks are likely to draw scrutiny from critics as cost-of-living concerns remain a top issue for voters ahead of the November midterm elections.

Brent crude oil futures extended gains, climbing to more than $107 a barrel, as the deadlock left the Strait of Hormuz largely closed.

US Central Command said the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln was in the Arabian Sea enforcing the US blockade, where it had redirected 65 commercial vessels and disabled four others.

The Pentagon put the cost of the war at $29 billion so far, an increase of $4 billion from an estimate provided late last month. An official told lawmakers the new cost included updated repair and replacement of equipment and operational costs.

Surveys show the war is unpopular with US voters, less than six months before nationwide elections that will determine whether Trump&#39;s Republican Party retains control of Congress.

Two out of three Americans, including one in three Republicans and almost all Democrats, think Trump has not clearly explained why the country has gone to war, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday.

A Fars news agency report cited an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps official as saying Iran had expanded its definition of the Strait of Hormuz into a zone stretching from the coast of the city of Jask in the east to Siri Island in the west.

In Tehran, the Guards held drills &quot;centred on preparation to confront the enemy&quot;, state TV reported.

Trump says stopping Iran&#39;s nuclear program outweighs Americans&#39; economic pain

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Americans&rsquo; financial struggles are not a factor in his decision-making as he seeks to negotiate an end to the Iran war, saying ​that preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon is his top priority.

Asked by a reporter &zwnj;to what extent Americans&rsquo; financial situations were motivating him to strike a deal, Trump said: &ldquo;Not even a little bit.&rdquo;

&quot;The only thing that matters, when I&rsquo;m talking about Iran, they can&rsquo;t have a nuclear weapon,&quot; Trump said before departing the White ​House for a trip to China. &quot;I don&rsquo;t think about Americans&rsquo; financial situation. I don&rsquo;t think about ​anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. ⁠That&rsquo;s all. That&#39;s the only thing that motivates me.&quot;

Trump&#39;s remarks are likely to draw scrutiny from critics ​who argue the administration should balance geopolitical objectives with the economic impact on Americans, particularly as cost-of-living ​concerns remain a top issue for voters ahead of the November midterm elections.

Asked to elaborate on the president&#39;s comments, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said that Trump&#39;s &quot;ultimate responsibility is the safety and security of Americans. Iran cannot have a ​nuclear weapon, and if action wasn&rsquo;t taken, they&rsquo;d have one, which threatens all Americans.&quot;

Trump is under growing ​pressure from fellow Republicans who fear economic pain caused by the war could spark a backlash against the party and &zwnj;cost ⁠it control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate in November.

Rising energy costs linked to the Iran conflict have pushed up gasoline prices and contributed to inflation. US consumer inflation in April posted its largest gain in three years, according to data released on Tuesday.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan will do to Kabul what it did to Delhi: Khawaja Asif</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607877/pakistan-will-do-to-kabul-what-it-did-to-delhi-khawaja-asif</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607877/pakistan-will-do-to-kabul-what-it-did-to-delhi-khawaja-asif#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 09:29:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Waqas Chaudhry]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607877</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Defence minister warns Afghanistan of ‘open war’ if Kabul fails to act against terrorists]]>
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				<![CDATA[Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday warned Afghanistan that if Kabul failed to stop harbouring terrorists, Pakistan would respond in the same way it had against India last year.

Addressing the National Assembly, Asif said: &ldquo;If they are not ready, then what we did with Delhi, we will do the same with Kabul.&rdquo; The minister asserted that Afghanistan had effectively become an instrument of Indian policy.

&ldquo;At this time, Afghanistan has become India&rsquo;s proxy,&rdquo; he said, adding: &ldquo;Kabul is fighting a Hindutva war against us,&rdquo; and that &ldquo;there is no difference between Delhi and Kabul at this time,&rdquo; although Pakistan sincerely wished otherwise.

Asif said Pakistan had repeatedly attempted to engage Afghanistan through diplomatic channels, including via Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, but those efforts had failed to yield results. &ldquo;In negotiations in Qatar, Afghanistan agreed to everything but later refused to give guarantees,&rdquo; he said, adding that Kabul was willing to agree verbally but not in writing.

Also Read: Khawaja Asif warns of stronger response to any future aggression

He said Pakistan&rsquo;s primary demand was a written commitment from Kabul ensuring that Afghan territory would not be used to launch attacks against Pakistan and that terrorists operating there would be expelled.

&ldquo;The Kabul government is not willing to guarantee that its territory will not be used for attacks against Pakistan,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Afghanistan is not willing to expel terrorists from its territory. Afghanistan is not willing to stop terrorists either.&rdquo;

The minister added that Pakistan remained open to talks if Kabul provided written assurances against terrorism.

Referring to a recent attack in Bannu, Asif said many people had been martyred and that the Pakistan Army continued to make sacrifices. &ldquo;We are being forced into war because of this situation,&rdquo; he said, adding that following India&rsquo;s defeat last year, New Delhi was now acting through Afghanistan.

On the diplomatic front, Asif said backchannel efforts through a third country were still ongoing, though he declined to provide further details. &ldquo;Talks are still ongoing through a third country, but I cannot say much at this stage,&rdquo; he said.

Pakistan remains embroiled in ongoing clashes with Afghanistan since February 2026. Operation Ghazab Lil Haq was launched following clashes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, after Afghan Taliban forces fired on multiple locations, prompting swift military action by Pakistan.

The neighbouring countries have been engaged in escalating hostilities along the frontier since then. The clashes intensified after Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes targeting terrorist positions.

A temporary pause in the operation was assumed in deference to Eidul Fitr and requests from Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye. The pause, effective from midnight on March 18-19, 2026, ran until March 23-24, 2026.

However, the operation then resumed in March and since then, the Pakistan Army has continued to respond to unprovoked aggression by the Taliban and Fitna al-Khawarij; a term used for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Read More: Khawaja Asif lauds armed forces, warns against future aggression

The defence minister also struck a cautiously optimistic note regarding domestic political alignment, saying the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government, which had previously been uncooperative, was now on board.

&ldquo;Earlier, we did not have the cooperation of the K-P government; now we do,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;It is good that we are all on the same page that terrorism must end.&rdquo; However, he warned that if Afghanistan remained unwilling to act, the situation could escalate further. &ldquo;Then it will be a war &mdash; an open war,&rdquo; he said.

Responding to a query from Asad Qaiser regarding military courts, Asif said the government would soon introduce legislation on the matter. He added that the right to appeal already existed and that several accused individuals had challenged military court verdicts. &ldquo;Many have challenged the jurisdiction of military courts,&rdquo; he said.

Regarding the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas, the minister acknowledged that the promised resources had yet to be provided. &ldquo;The share due to former FATA is not only the responsibility of the federation; provinces must also contribute,&rdquo; he said. As soon as the provinces agree, he added, the region would receive its due rights.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan reducing dependence on imported fuel for power generation: Leghari</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607890/pakistan-reducing-dependence-on-imported-fuel-for-power-generation-leghari</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607890/pakistan-reducing-dependence-on-imported-fuel-for-power-generation-leghari#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 11:52:29 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Govt working to rationalise power costs for consumers without rooftop solar systems, he says]]>
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				<![CDATA[Power Minister&nbsp;Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari said on Wednesday that Pakistan was steadily reducing its dependence on imported fuel for electricity generation, with the share of indigenous energy sources expected to rise significantly over the next four to five years.

Responding to a calling attention notice regarding drastic changes in the net-metering policy for solar prosumers and the proposal to impose an 18%&nbsp;tax on solar panels, he said 74% of the electricity currently generated in the country was being produced from local sources, while only 26%&nbsp;depended on imported coal and gas.

He said the share of locally sourced energy was projected to increase to nearly 96%&nbsp;in the coming years, adding that Pakistan&rsquo;s reliance on imported fuel was continuously declining.

The minister said the government had completed a detailed study, initiated several months ago, regarding the conversion of imported coal-based power plants to locally produced Thar coal. He termed the initiative both feasible and economically viable.

He said the move would not only help reduce electricity prices but would also further decrease the country&rsquo;s dependence on imported fuel.

Leghari said wind and solar energy could not fully replace base-load power plants, adding that every country required reliable base-load generation capacity.

He said Pakistan would continue to rely on fossil fuel-based plants and hydropower to ensure energy stability, and also added that the government was not discouraging renewable energy projects, further saying&nbsp;that the sector continued to witness strong growth in the country.

Read: No new imported fuel-based IPPs

He said the government was working to rationalise electricity costs to ensure fairness for consumers who could not install rooftop solar systems and assured lawmakers that under the new prosumer regulations introduced by the government, investment in solar energy remained financially attractive for consumers.

The minister said that even under the revised net-metering regulations, if a consumer invested Rs100,000 in a solar system, the investment could be recovered within three years, which he described as a healthy rate of return, and the number of applications for solar net metering had continued to rise at the same pace as before, despite regulatory changes introduced in recent months, he said.

He added that the growth of solar net-metering consumers in the country was continuing steadily alongside broader efforts for cost rationalisation in the power sector, and added that the government had reviewed net-metering regulations in line with directives and ensured full protection for existing consumers who had already invested under previously agreed terms and conditions.

He said the sanctity of contracts signed with existing net-metering consumers had been maintained, with no changes made to their terms and conditions, and further clarified that revised regulations would apply only to new consumers joining in the future, who would move from net metering to net billing under the new framework.

The minister said electricity purchased from future prosumers would be bought at the average energy price of the national grid, currently around Rs9.80 per unit.

Read more: Pakistan turns to spot LNG market again

He explained that the grid&rsquo;s average electricity cost was calculated by combining multiple energy sources, including coal, diesel, furnace oil, gas, imported coal, local coal, nuclear and hydropower.

Leghari said the government&rsquo;s decision had been misunderstood in some quarters, with concerns that consumers might shift towards battery storage systems and also said that the investment in batteries should be viewed positively for both the national grid and consumers.

The minister warned that if prosumer regulations and buyback rates had not been revised, consumers not using net metering would have faced an additional burden of nearly Rs3 per unit and the financial impact on ordinary consumers could have increased to around Rs35 billion annually if corrective measures had not been introduced.

He said extensive consultations were held over nearly a year before finalising revisions to prosumer and net-metering regulations, and further added that the matter was first discussed at the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), later taken to the federal cabinet, and further deliberated upon on the prime minister&rsquo;s direction.

He said consultations were also held with solar associations, consumers and stakeholders, who recommended the gradual implementation of changes.

He said Pakistan originally launched net-metering regulations during the PML-N government in 2017&ndash;18 to encourage solar investment through attractive buyback rates, and that the framework had undergone several revisions since then and solar infrastructure costs had declined globally, while Pakistan had seen a sharp rise in solar adoption over the past few years.

He said Pakistan currently had between 23,000 and 24,000 megawatts&nbsp;of installed solar capacity, including around 8,000MW under net metering.

Leghari said government policies had enabled what he termed a &ldquo;green revolution&rdquo; in the country, without international climate financing support and citizens invested in solar systems through personal savings and loans due to rising electricity prices.

He said renewable energy growth would continue as long as it remained incentivised.

On load-shedding, he said Pakistan had around 14,000 electricity feeders, with 11,500 operating without load-shedding. He said load-shedding of between two and 16 hours was being carried out on the remaining feeders due to theft and losses.

He said the government was launching a programme to shift load management from feeder level to transformer level within a year and the goal was to reduce unnecessary outages by targeting high-loss areas more precisely.

Highlighting clean energy goals, he said renewable and clean energy currently accounted for around 55%&nbsp;of the national grid&rsquo;s energy mix, with a target of nearly 96% by 2032 and he also criticised the lack of international financial support for Pakistan&rsquo;s climate efforts, despite the country being among the most affected by climate change.]]>
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			<title>FinMin Aurangzeb discusses upcoming budget preparations, economic reforms in meeting with IMF mission</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607861/finmin-aurangzeb-discusses-upcoming-budget-preparations-economic-reforms-in-meeting-with-imfmission</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607861/finmin-aurangzeb-discusses-upcoming-budget-preparations-economic-reforms-in-meeting-with-imfmission#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:09:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607861</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Mission chief acknowledges Pakistan's positive progress in maintaining macroeconomic stability despite challenges]]>
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				<![CDATA[Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday held a meeting with the visiting IMF mission to review Pakistan&rsquo;s macroeconomic outlook, discussed the upcoming budget preparations and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening economic stability and sustainable growth.

According to a statement issued by the&nbsp;Ministry of Finance,&nbsp;the discussions focused on Pakistan&#39;s macroeconomic stabilisation efforts, preparations for the upcoming federal budget, and the broader reform agenda aimed at strengthening fiscal and external sustainability.

&quot;Both sides exchanged views on maintaining reform momentum, preserving macroeconomic stability, and advancing structural reforms to promote investment, productivity, and export-led growth within a balanced and forward-looking policy framework,&quot; it stated.



Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb Briefs Visiting IMF Mission

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, today briefed the visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission on Pakistan&rsquo;s macroeconomic outlook, fiscal strategy, reform&hellip; pic.twitter.com/n3x8iY6sfz
&mdash; Ministry of Finance, Government of Pakistan (@Financegovpk) May 13, 2026


The finance minister expressed his appreciation to the Fund&#39;s continued engagement and dialogue with the Pakistani government, particularly acknowledging the discussions held during the Spring Meetings in Washington.

The finance ministry stated that while sharing developments in Pakistan&#39;s external sector, Aurangzeb highlighted positive trends in remittances and export performance. He briefed the delegation on recent data that indicated progress in exports on both a month-on-month and a year-on-year basis, &quot;reflecting growing resilience in the economy and a gradual strengthening of macroeconomic fundamentals.&quot;

Further, the finance minister emphasised that while economic stabilisation efforts had produced promising results, the government &quot;remained fully mindful of the structural challenges confronting the economy, particularly external liabilities and the need to accelerate sustainable, export-led growth.&quot;

Reiterating the government&#39;s commitment to &quot;deepening reforms aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability without compromising long-term growth prospects,&quot; Aurangzeb underscored the importance of moving Pakistan away from recurring boom-and-bust cycles through structural reforms, productivity enhancement, deregulation, and improved export competitiveness.

Read: Petroleum levy jumps 45% to Rs1.2tr

According to the ministry,&nbsp;Aurangzeb stated that the government&#39;s reform agenda had been &quot;carefully calibrated in consultation with international experts and economists,&quot; noting that ongoing policy measures were not driven by short-term considerations. Instead, the ministry noted, Aurangzeb stated that the measures formed part of a &quot;broader and technically grounded economic transformation strategy endorsed at the highest level.&quot;

The IMF mission was also briefed on Pakistan&#39;s continued engagement with its international development partners, such as China. The briefing included Pakistan&#39;s ongoing economic cooperation initiatives with China and &quot;efforts aimed at mobilising long-term investment aligned with the country&rsquo;s strategic economic priorities.&quot;

The mission, according to the finance ministry, was led by Iva Petrova, who &quot;acknowledged the positive progress made by Pakistan.&quot; The delegation also appreciated the government&#39;s commitment to &quot;prudent economic management and reform implementation.&quot;

Emphasising the importance of sustaining reform momentum, the IMF delegation also called for the maintenance of fiscal discipline and the advancement of structural reforms to support durable and inclusive economic growth.

&quot;Discussions during the meeting also focused on the broader macroeconomic framework, the government&rsquo;s reform agenda, and priorities for the upcoming budget,&quot; the ministry said.

Read More: IMF adds 11 new conditions

The IMF team reaffirmed its commitment to continued engagement and constructive cooperation with the Pakistani government&nbsp;in support of the country&rsquo;s economic reform programme and long-term economic resilience.

The meeting was attended by Governor State Bank of Pakistan Jameel Ahmad, Secretary Finance Division Imdad Ullah Bosal, Chairman Federal Board of Revenue Rashid Mahmood Langrial, and senior officials of the finance and revenue division, as well as the tax policy office.

The meeting came after the SBP announced it had received about $1.3 billion from the IMF under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes. The IMF Executive Board completed the third review under the EFF in its meeting held on May 8, 2026, approving the disbursement of SDR 760 million for Pakistan.

Further, the SBP said that the executive board also approved the disbursement of the second tranche of SDR 154 million under the RSF. It revealed that the bank had received SDR 914 million (about US $1.3 billion) under the EFF and RSF.

Last Friday, the executive board had&nbsp;approved $1.2 billion worth of loan tranches after Pakistan accepted a dozen new conditions and assured it would stick to the pre-war programme targets to stay on the course of stabilisation.]]>
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			<title>PAF shattered Indian arrogance, demonstrated dominance by downing Rafale: Tarar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607882/paf-shattered-indian-arrogance-demonstrated-dominance-by-downing-rafale-tarar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607882/paf-shattered-indian-arrogance-demonstrated-dominance-by-downing-rafale-tarar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 10:21:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khalid Mahmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607882</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says Pakistan achieved success on narrative, military, diplomatic fronts during Marka-e-Haq]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Wednesday that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) demonstrated its dominance during aerial engagements, stating that the Rafale aircraft brought down during the conflict shattered Indian arrogance and highlighted Pakistan&rsquo;s indigenous technological capabilities.

Speaking at the Institute of Strategic Studies in Islamabad on the occasion of Marka-e-Haq, Tarar said India had imposed aggression on Pakistan, targeting civilian populations, while Pakistan had restricted its response to military objectives.

&quot;Pakistan believes in peace,&quot; he said, adding that the country was a responsible state and a frontline nation in the fight against terrorism.

He said that Pakistan had achieved success on the narrative, military, and diplomatic fronts during Marka-e-Haq, crediting the unity of the nation, its institutions, and the leadership of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for the country&#39;s response to Indian aggression.

On the Pahalgam incident, Tarar said no investigation was conducted, but Pakistan was blamed. &quot;An FIR was registered within 10 minutes,&quot; he said, adding that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had offered a transparent investigation into the incident during his address to cadets at the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul. &quot;A year has passed and India has given no response,&quot; he said. &quot;India is running away from the investigation of the Pahalgam incident.&quot;



India is Promoting Terrorism While Pakistan Combats it: Attaullah Tarar#AttaullahTarar #Pahalgam #CrossBorderTerrorism #Pakistan @TararAttaullah pic.twitter.com/vF0tE7DVmd
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) May 13, 2026



The minister said India had a habit of turning internal issues into external ones and external issues into internal ones, saying that the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was an international issue with United Nations resolutions behind it, while terrorism was India&#39;s internal issue, not an external one.

Tarar pointed to the arrest of Kulbhushan Yadav in Pakistan as evidence of India&#39;s involvement in terrorism, adding&nbsp;that a country accusing Pakistan was itself found involved in the killing of Sikhs in Canada and other countries.

&quot;Pakistan is fighting terrorism while India is promoting terrorism,&quot; he said.

Read: &#39;No one can harm Pakistan; we are ready to respond to any aggression&#39;: DG ISPR on Marka-e-Haq anniversary

The minister further said that Pakistan had successfully conveyed the truth to the world, with local residents and journalists taken on a visit to the Bela Noor Shah area regarding the Pahalgam incident. He contrasted this with what he described as misinformation from the Indian side, noting that Indian media had made false claims about targeting ports in Lahore and Multan &mdash; both landlocked cities.&nbsp;

Tarar praised the role of Pakistani media during the conflict, saying it had acted responsibly, while the nation&#39;s youth had used social media as a weapon on the narrative front. He added that Pakistan&#39;s civilian and military leadership had been on the same page throughout, with coordination and harmony at every level.

The minister also highlighted Pakistan&#39;s sacrifices in the broader war against terrorism, saying the country had suffered billions of dollars in losses. &quot;If a Pakistani sacrifices his life in the fight against terrorism, it is not only for Pakistan but for the entire world,&quot; he said, adding that Pakistan&#39;s sacrifices for the elimination of terrorism were unparalleled.



Pakistan Presented the Truth on the Right Forum at the Right Time: Attaullah Tarar#AttaullahTarar #Pahalgam #CrossBorderTerrorism @TararAttaullah pic.twitter.com/RMNAvZfMOH
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) May 13, 2026



He paid tribute to the leadership of Field Marshal Munir in navigating the challenges Pakistan faced during Marka-e-Haq.

Last year, on April 22, the escalation between Pakistan and India escalated when an attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident. However, Pakistan categorically rejected the blame.

Read More: Civil, military leadership assert full-spectrum response to any aggression on Marka-e-Haq&#39;s 1st anniversary

India then undertook a series of hostile actions the next day, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), cancelling visas for Pakistani citizens, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordering the shutdown of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, and reducing diplomatic staff at each other&#39;s embassies.

Tensions heightened further in the early hours of May 7 when missile strikes hit six cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), destroying a mosque and killing dozens of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly.

In a swift military response, Pakistan&rsquo;s armed forces shot down Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets. The confrontation intensified again in the early hours of May 10 when India targeted several Pakistani airbases with missile strikes. In retaliation, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, damaging Indian military installations, including missile storage sites, airbases, and other strategic targets.

On the same day, United States President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire had been reached between India and Pakistan following intense overnight diplomatic efforts. Minutes later, the agreement was confirmed separately by Pakistan&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the Indian foreign secretary.]]>
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			<title>Trump hails Pakistan's 'great mediation' role</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607839/trump-hails-pakistans-great-mediation-role</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607839/trump-hails-pakistans-great-mediation-role#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:48:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[agencies]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pentagon says cost of war with Iran soars to $29b]]>
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				<![CDATA[President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the United States was not reconsidering Pakistan&#39;s role as a mediator in the ongoing negotiations with Iran and insisted that Washington did not need Beijing&#39;s help in dealing with Tehran.

Trump spoke to reporters before departing for Beijing ahead of a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as the Pentagon informed Congress that the cost of the war with Iran had climbed to nearly $29 billion.

Trump is travelling to China as Washington increasingly looks to Beijing to pressure Tehran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He said he intended to hold a &quot;long talk&quot; with the Chinese leader while maintaining that Washington did not require China&#39;s assistance in dealing with Iran.

&quot;We have Iran very much under control. We&#39;re either going to make a deal or they are going to be decimated,&quot; Trump told reporters. &quot;We&#39;re going to see what happens. We&#39;re only making a good deal,&quot; he added.

He reiterated that the United States would prevail &quot;peacefully or otherwise&quot;. &quot;I believe that one way or the other, it&#39;s going to be very good for the American people and, actually, very good for the Iranian people,&quot; he said.

When asked whether the US was reconsidering Pakistan&#39;s role as a mediator, Trump replied: &quot;No, they&#39;re great. I think the Pakistanis have been great. The field marshal and the prime minister of Pakistan have been absolutely great.&quot;

At home, Trump has come under growing political pressure as US lawmakers questioned the financial burden of the conflict, its strategic direction and its impact on American military readiness.

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers held a tense hearing on the administration&#39;s proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget for 2027, where they were informed that the war&#39;s cost had increased by nearly $4 billion from the Pentagon&#39;s previous estimate disclosed only two weeks ago.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine and Pentagon finance chief Jules Hurst III told lawmakers that the revised estimate reflected updated repair and replacement costs for military equipment, as well as broader operational expenditures linked to the conflict.

&quot;At the time of [previous] testimony, it was $25 billion, but now we think it&#39;s closer to 29,&quot; Hurst said during the hearing.

The war began after coordinated US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28 and has since evolved into a prolonged regional confrontation centred on control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world&#39;s most critical energy shipping lanes.

Despite a ceasefire that has largely halted full-scale hostilities for more than a month, tensions remain high. Trump warned on Monday that the truce was on &quot;life support&quot; after rejecting Tehran&#39;s latest peace proposal, raising fears of renewed fighting across the region.

Iranian negotiators responded defiantly on Tuesday, insisting Washington must accept Tehran&#39;s 14-point peace framework or face continued failure. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the United States had no alternative but to recognise the &quot;rights of the Iranian people&quot;.

Iran&#39;s latest proposal reportedly called for an end to hostilities across the region, the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports and the release of Iranian assets frozen under sanctions.

Iran has sought to charge tolls on vessels using the waterway as part of its wartime leverage, while maintaining restrictions on maritime traffic that have rattled global energy markets and driven oil prices sharply higher. China has meanwhile called for &quot;normal and safe passage&quot; through the strategic shipping corridor.

Meanwhile, Democrats on Capitol Hill intensified criticism of the Trump administration, accusing the White House of failing to provide transparency regarding both the true financial cost of the war and its long-term objectives.

Senior Democratic lawmaker Rosa DeLauro questioned what the United States had achieved through months of conflict, while Representative Betty McCollum accused the Pentagon of a &quot;consistent lack of transparency&quot;.

Questions also mounted over the depletion of American weapons stockpiles following months of sustained missile strikes and air defence operations in the Middle East.

Hegseth dismissed concerns that the war had dangerously drained US military inventories, insisting the Pentagon maintained sufficient supplies. &quot;We know exactly what we have. We have plenty of what we need,&quot; he told lawmakers.

However, Democratic Senator Mark Kelly warned that inventories of Tomahawk cruise missiles, Patriot interceptors and other advanced weapons systems had been severely depleted and could take years to replenish.

Meanwhile, the continuing uncertainty has deepened anxiety among civilians across Iran. State media reported that the Revolutionary Guards had conducted military drills in Tehran aimed at improving combat readiness against the &quot;American-Zionist enemy&quot;.]]>
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			<title>Trump says stopping Iran's nuclear programme outweighs Americans' economic pain</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607852/trump-says-stopping-irans-nuclear-programme-outweighs-americans-economic-pain</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607852/trump-says-stopping-irans-nuclear-programme-outweighs-americans-economic-pain#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 07:03:22 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607852</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Trump under growing ​pressure from Republicans who fear economic pain caused by war could spark backlash against party]]>
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				<![CDATA[US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Americans&rsquo; financial struggles are not a factor in his decision-making as he seeks to negotiate an end to the Iran war, saying ​that preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon is his top priority.

Asked by a reporter &zwnj;to what extent Americans&rsquo; financial situations were motivating him to strike a deal, Trump said: &ldquo;Not even a little bit.&rdquo;

&quot;The only thing that matters, when I&rsquo;m talking about Iran, they can&rsquo;t have a nuclear weapon,&quot; Trump said before departing the White ​House for a trip to China. &quot;I don&rsquo;t think about Americans&rsquo; financial situation. I don&rsquo;t think about ​anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. ⁠That&rsquo;s all. That&#39;s the only thing that motivates me.&quot;

Trump&#39;s remarks are likely to draw scrutiny from critics ​who argue the administration should balance geopolitical objectives with the economic impact on Americans, particularly as cost-of-living ​concerns remain a top issue for voters ahead of the November midterm elections.

Asked to elaborate on the president&#39;s comments, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said that Trump&#39;s &quot;ultimate responsibility is the safety and security of Americans. Iran cannot have a ​nuclear weapon, and if action wasn&rsquo;t taken, they&rsquo;d have one, which threatens all Americans.&quot;

Also Read: Trump hails Pakistan&#39;s &#39;great mediation&#39; role

Trump is under growing ​pressure from fellow Republicans who fear economic pain caused by the war could spark a backlash against the party and &zwnj;cost ⁠it control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate in November.

Rising energy costs linked to the Iran conflict have pushed up gasoline prices and contributed to inflation.

US consumer inflation in April posted its largest gain in three years, according to data released on Tuesday.

Trump framed his approach as a matter of ​national and global security, ​suggesting economic concerns were ⁠secondary to preventing nuclear proliferation.

US intelligence assessments, however, indicate that the time Iran would need to build a nuclear weapon has not changed since last summer, when ​analysts estimated that a US-Israeli attack had increased the timeline to nine ​months to a ⁠year, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The assessments of Tehran&#39;s nuclear programme remain broadly unchanged even after two months of war.

Trump&#39;s allies have echoed his argument that the risks posed by a ⁠nuclear-armed Iran ​outweigh short-term economic hardships.]]>
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			<title>Israeli occupier attacks threaten historic Christian presence in West Bank town</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607874/israeli-occupier-attacks-threaten-historic-christian-presence-in-west-bank-town</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607874/israeli-occupier-attacks-threaten-historic-christian-presence-in-west-bank-town#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 09:10:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607874</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[5,000 dunams of farmland blocked, cars burned, a church nearly set ablaze]]>
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				<![CDATA[In Taybeh, one of the few Palestinian communities with a Christian majority in the occupied West Bank, fears are growing that Israeli occupier attacks on farmland and property could push more families to emigrate, threatening the town&rsquo;s demographic character and historic Christian presence.

Local officials and clergy warned of the impact of rising violence by Israeli occupiers, which has coincided with worsening living and economic conditions in the town.

Taybeh, east of Ramallah, is one of the few Palestinian towns in the West Bank that still has a Christian majority, according to church and local accounts. Residents say the town&rsquo;s Christian roots go back thousands of years.

Residents say the attacks have deepened fears in the town, even as they stress their determination to remain on their land.

Also Read: Pakistan raises red flag over illegal settlements in West Bank, calls for Israel accountability

In recent years, Israeli occupiers have established several illegal settlement outposts around Taybeh, the latest in April. The town is now surrounded by several illegal settlements and pastoral outposts where occupiers from the right-wing Hilltop Youth group are active.

Occupier attacks on Taybeh and nearby Bedouin communities have included burning vehicles, stealing sheep and blocking access to farmland, residents said.

Palestinian officials have repeatedly warned that Israel seeks to empty Palestinian lands of Christians in an attempt to separate them from the core of the national struggle and promote a false narrative to the world that the conflict in Palestine is religious rather than political.

Mounting pressure

The Rev&nbsp;Jack-Nobel Abed of the Greek Melkite Catholic Church in Taybeh said the town is &ldquo;going through a difficult stage&rdquo; of repeated Israeli restrictions and attacks, especially since the war on Gaza.

&ldquo;We preserve the faith of this town, which has remained 100% Christian in the West Bank, and we believe we have a mission in this Holy Land, despite the increasing restrictions and attacks we face,&rdquo; Abed told Anadolu.

He said the situation is not limited to &ldquo;isolated incidents,&rdquo; but represents &ldquo;a policy of pressure aimed at weakening the Christian presence in Palestine.&rdquo;

Read More: Latin patriarch of Jerusalem condemns destruction of Jesus statue by Israeli soldier in Lebanon

Abed said the &ldquo;extremist settlement project&rdquo; affects the daily lives of Taybeh residents through restrictions and attacks by Israeli occupiers. &ldquo;We do not speak from a place of fanaticism, but from a place of preserving our presence, identity and mission in this land,&rdquo; he added.

Abed said Taybeh has recently faced several forms of attacks, including movement restrictions, closures and assaults on property.

The overall situation has created &ldquo;a state of anxiety and fear among residents&rdquo; and affected social stability, he said. &ldquo;We are facing a difficult reality, but it does not weaken our faith that remaining and standing firm is the basic message,&rdquo; he added.

Abed said occupier attacks on monks and nuns in occupied East Jerusalem, along with continued harassment of the Christian presence, are &ldquo;part of a broader picture of what is happening in Palestine.&rdquo;

Continuous escalation

Acting Taybeh Mayor Khaldoun Hanna said the town, whose roots go back thousands of years and which has about 1,500 residents and thousands of expatriates abroad, faces &ldquo;a continuous escalation in occupier attacks.&rdquo;

Hanna told Anadolu that Taybeh sits on a hill east of Ramallah and its residents depend mainly on agriculture, especially olive farming. But he said that sector has faced increasing restrictions in recent years.

&ldquo;Israeli occupiers have prevented residents from reaching about 5,000 dunams of farmland, and they have also prevented them from harvesting olives across wide areas, causing major economic losses,&rdquo; he said.

Hanna said the attacks have not been limited to farmland, but have also included repeated raids into the town, attacks on homes and property, the burning of cars, and attempted vandalism.

Also Read: Israeli police block Catholic cardinal from Jerusalem&#39;s Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday

&ldquo;The most dangerous incident was an attempt to burn the Byzantine Church of St&nbsp;George inside the town, but residents managed to control the fire before it spread,&rdquo; he said.

Last July, Israeli occupiers set fire near the cemetery and the historic St&nbsp;George Church, drawing wide church and international condemnation of occupier attacks on holy sites and places of worship.

Hanna accused occupiers of acting &ldquo;under the protection and support of Israeli forces,&rdquo; saying the goal of the attacks is &ldquo;to push residents toward migration and empty the area.&rdquo;

&ldquo;There are daily pressures on residents and constant attempts at provocation to create friction, but residents try to avoid direct confrontation despite the provocations,&rdquo; he said.

Worrying migration

Hanna said Taybeh has seen limited but worrying migration in recent years. &ldquo;In the past two years alone, at least 10 families have left because of the economic situation and ongoing pressure,&rdquo; he said.

Residents&rsquo; reliance on agriculture makes them more vulnerable to field restrictions, Hanna said. &ldquo;When a farmer is prevented from reaching his land, his main source of livelihood is cut off, and this affects social stability,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;The crisis is not only economic, but also psychological and social, because people feel their future is threatened,&rdquo; he added.

Hanna said the attacks do not distinguish between members of Palestinian society, saying &ldquo;mosques, churches and property are all targeted.&rdquo; He said that despite the continued pressure, residents &ldquo;remain committed to staying and standing firm on the land.&rdquo;

The testimonies come amid Palestinian warnings over escalating occupier violence in the West Bank, along with restrictions on residents&rsquo; movement, blocked access to farmland and growing concerns over the impact on the Palestinian presence in rural areas, including towns with religious and historic significance such as Taybeh.

More than 770,000 Israeli occupiers live in the West Bank, including about 250,000 in the occupied East Jerusalem, according to Palestinian estimates, in settlements the United Nations considers illegal.

Since Israel&rsquo;s genocidal war on the Gaza Strip began in October 2023, Israeli forces and occupiers have escalated attacks in the West Bank, killing at least 1,155 Palestinians, wounding 11,750 and arresting nearly 22,000, according to Palestinian figures.]]>
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			<title>US imposes visa restrictions on associates of Indian online pharmacy over counterfeit drugs</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607862/us-imposes-visa-restrictions-on-associates-of-indian-online-pharmacy-over-counterfeit-drugs</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607862/us-imposes-visa-restrictions-on-associates-of-indian-online-pharmacy-over-counterfeit-drugs#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:20:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607862</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[State Department says network sold counterfeit fentanyl-linked prescription pills to buyers in US]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The United States on Tuesday announced visa restrictions against 13 individuals linked to Indian online pharmacy KS International Traders for allegedly distributing counterfeit prescription drugs containing fentanyl.

In a statement, the US State Department said the individuals were close associates of KS International Traders and its owner, which was based in India.

&ldquo;Sanctioned online pharmacies like KS International Traders, based in India, have sold hundreds of thousands of counterfeit prescription pills laced with illicit fentanyl to unsuspecting victims across the US,&rdquo; the statement said.

Read: Iran war to cast a shadow on BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Delhi

The department said KS International Traders generated revenue through fentanyl trafficking, noting that US President Donald Trump had designated fentanyl a &ldquo;Weapon of Mass Destruction.&rdquo;

The statement said the move underscored the US&rsquo; and India&rsquo;s &ldquo;enduring and shared commitment to dismantling illicit drug entities.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Those complicit in poisoning Americans will be denied entry to the US,&rdquo; it added.]]>
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			<title>Iran war to cast a shadow on BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Delhi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607859/iran-war-to-cast-a-shadow-on-brics-foreign-ministers-meeting-in-delhi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607859/iran-war-to-cast-a-shadow-on-brics-foreign-ministers-meeting-in-delhi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:04:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607859</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Iran urges India to use the BRICS platform to build consensus condemning US -Israeli actions in Gulf]]>
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				<![CDATA[The US-Israeli war on ​Iran is set to cast a shadow over a two-day meeting of the foreign ministers &zwnj;of the BRICS grouping that kicks off in New Delhi on Thursday, testing the bloc&#39;s ability to reach a unified position and produce a joint statement.

The grouping, which originally included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded over the years with ​the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran had urged India, the BRICS ​chair for 2026, to use the BRICS platform to build a consensus condemning US ⁠and Israeli actions in the Gulf conflict.

The main differences have emerged between Iran and the United Arab ​Emirates, which are on opposing sides of the front line in a war launched by the US&nbsp;and Israel ​on February 28.

Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is likely to arrive late on Wednesday to attend the gathering, which will run through May 14&ndash;15. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is also expected to attend the meeting.

It was not immediately clear who would represent ​the UAE during the meeting. The latest round could be tense after reports that the UAE and Saudi Arabia carried ​out military strikes on Iran in retaliation for Iranian strikes.

Read: Trump says he does not need China&#39;s help to end Iran war

Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said in March that &zwnj;some BRICS ⁠members were involved directly in the conflict, due to which it had been &quot;difficult for us to forge a consensus.&quot;

Another ministry official told Reuters India was hopeful to get a joint statement after the latest round of meetings with foreign ministers.

&quot;Glad that the foreign ministers from all the BRICS countries, except China, who is otherwise ​tied up, are coming. This ​is a good sign ⁠on efforts to build a BRICS coalition around a matter of interest to emerging economies and the global south,&quot; said former Indian diplomat Manjeev Singh Puri.

&quot;Of course, ​political solutions are difficult, but the fact that they are meeting is positive, ​and hopefully ⁠it will lead to a way forward.&quot;

Soaring energy prices caused by the war have prompted many BRICS nations, including India, to introduce emergency measures to protect their economies and consumers.

So far, China has taken a nominally neutral stance, ⁠given its ​robust ties with both Iran and Sunni-majority Arab states.

China will ​be represented by its Ambassador to India Xu Feihong to fill in for their Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is unlikely to travel ​with US President Donald Trump visiting Beijing this week.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan, Azerbaijan reaffirm strong ties</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607838/pakistan-azerbaijan-reaffirm-strong-ties</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607838/pakistan-azerbaijan-reaffirm-strong-ties#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:48:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Both the leaders expressed satisfaction on positive trajectory of bilateral relations]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan and Azerbaijan on Tuesday reiterated commitment to deepening cooperation across areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, energy, and people-to-people contacts.

The development came as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephonic conversation with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, according to a statement by the PM Office Media Wing.

Both the leaders expressed satisfaction on positive trajectory of bilateral relations.

During their &quot;most warm and cordial conversation&quot;, the two leaders exchanged greetings and reaffirmed the strong fraternal bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, the statement read.

The prime minister conveyed his best wishes to President Aliyev for the success of the upcoming World Urban Forum to be held in Baku next week.

He expressed confidence that the forum, under Azerbaijan&#39;s stewardship, would serve as a valuable platform for advancing the global urban development agenda.

He noted that, most regrettably, pressing commitments would preclude his personal attendance at the event, but he had ensured that Pakistan would be well-represented at the forum.

They also discussed regional developments of common concern, particularly the ongoing peace efforts in the Middle East.

President Aliyev expressed his deep appreciation at Pakistan&#39;s &quot;remarkably successful initiatives&quot; to bring about a ceasefire between Iran and the US. This was a clear reflection of the trust and confidence of the international community in Pakistan and its leadership, he said.

The two leaders agreed to maintain close contact, and looked forward to their meeting, in person, later this year.

The prime minister also reiterated his cordial invitation to President Aliyev to undertake an official visit to Pakistan, at his earliest convenience.]]>
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			<title>Battle for cinema's soul begins at Cannes</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607751/battle-for-cinemas-soul-begins-at-cannes</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607751/battle-for-cinemas-soul-begins-at-cannes#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 20:07:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607751</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Festival leaders defend artists and storytellers as artificial intelligence reshapes the global film business]]>
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				<![CDATA[The 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival opened on Tuesday against a backdrop of mounting anxiety over artificial intelligence, the notable retreat of major Hollywood studios and renewed debate about representation and celebrity culture on the Croisette.

Long regarded as the world&#39;s most influential celebration of cinema, the French festival arrived this year at a moment of profound uncertainty for the global film industry.

While organisers unveiled a competition slate packed with independent auteurs, international dramas and politically charged storytelling, much of the conversation ahead of opening night revolved around tech disruption and the absence of blockbuster studio premieres that once defined Cannes glamour.

Festival director Thierry Fremaux used his opening press conference to deliver one of the strongest warnings yet from a major festival figure against unchecked artificial intelligence in filmmaking. He said Cannes stood firmly with writers, actors, translators and dubbing artists increasingly fearful about job losses as AI tools expand across production pipelines.

&quot;What is certain... is that here in Cannes, we stand with the artists,&quot; Fremaux declared, suggesting future films might even carry labels stating they were made without artificial intelligence, much like organic certifications in the food and wine industries.

The remarks reflected growing unease across global cinema after the 2023 Hollywood strikes, where AI protections became central demands by actors and screenwriters. In France, thousands of performers and filmmakers earlier this year signed an open letter accusing AI platforms of &quot;plundering&quot; artistic labour and likening the technology to a &quot;devouring hydra&quot;.

Yet Cannes itself appeared caught within the same contradiction consuming the wider entertainment business. Just a day before the festival opened, organisers confirmed a multi-year sponsorship agreement with Meta, the technology giant investing heavily in AI development.

The partnership intensified scrutiny surrounding Steven Soderbergh&#39;s documentary &#39;John Lennon: The Last Interview&#39;, which uses AI-generated imagery recreating late Beatles icon John Lennon and artist Yoko Ono. The film is set to premiere during the festival and has already triggered debate over ethical boundaries in documentary storytelling.

Beyond the AI controversy, Cannes is also confronting a striking absence of traditional Hollywood power. Unlike previous editions that launched major studio titles such as &#39;Top Gun: Maverick&#39; or &#39;Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny&#39;, no major American studio chose Cannes or February&#39;s Berlin Film Festival to debut a blockbuster this year.

Industry observers say studios including Disney, Universal Pictures and Warner Bros. have become increasingly cautious amid box-office instability, streaming competition and volatile production economics.

Fremaux insisted American cinema remained strongly represented despite the lack of studio tentpoles. Among the 22 films competing for the prestigious Palme d&#39;Or are &#39;Paper Tiger&#39; by James Gray starring Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson, alongside Ira Sachs&#39; &#39;The Man I Love&#39;, featuring Rami Malek in a drama set during the AIDS crisis in 1980s New York.

The competition field this year is viewed as unusually open, lacking an obvious frontrunner. Established auteurs including Pedro Almodovar, Laszlo Nemes, Asghar Farhadi and Ryusuke Hamaguchi are competing alongside returning Palme d&#39;Or winners Cristian Mungiu and Hirokazu Kore-eda.

Politics remain woven through many selections, though often through historical settings rather than direct commentary on current conflicts. War, grief, fascism and artificial intelligence emerge repeatedly as thematic concerns across the programme, underscoring cinema&#39;s continuing preoccupation with social upheaval and technological change.

The festival opened with French romantic comedy &#39;The Electric Kiss&#39;, directed by Pierre Salvadori, while the main competition will be judged by a jury headed by acclaimed South Korean director Park Chan-wook. Hollywood actor Demi Moore is also serving on the jury panel.

Away from competition screenings, the festival&#39;s celebrity machinery remains fully operational despite the industry&#39;s turbulence. A reunion celebrating the 25th anniversary of &#39;The Fast and the Furious&#39; is expected to bring Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster to the Croisette, while John Travolta is unveiling his directorial debut, &#39;Propeller One-Way Night Coach&#39;.

Meanwhile, Cannes honoured &#39;The Lord of the Rings&#39; filmmaker Peter Jackson with an honorary Palme d&#39;Or recognising what organisers described as his transformative impact on modern cinema. Fremaux praised Jackson not only as a technical innovator but as a &quot;tremendous storyteller&quot; whose epics reshaped Hollywood spectacle.

The festival also announced a new biopic on legendary entertainer and activist Josephine Baker, with British singer FKA twigs cast in the lead role. Directed by Maimouna Doucoure, the project will chronicle Baker&#39;s rise from poverty in St Louis to international fame and her role in the French Resistance and American civil rights movement.

On social media, another Cannes-related controversy erupted after L&#39;Or&eacute;al Paris omitted Indian star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan from a promotional campaign video despite her decades-long association with the festival. Fans flooded the company&#39;s online accounts demanding explanations before the brand later confirmed that Aishwarya, Alia Bhatt and Aditi Rao Hydari would represent India at Cannes this year.

As the red carpets unfurl along the French Riviera, Cannes once again finds itself balancing glamour with existential questions about cinema&#39;s future. Between artificial intelligence fears, shifting studio priorities and debates over artistic identity, the festival&#39;s enduring message appears clear: even in an era dominated by algorithms and streaming platforms, the battle over who controls storytelling is far from settled.]]>
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			<title>Beatles to open London museum at final gig site</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607753/beatles-to-open-london-museum-at-final-gig-site</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607753/beatles-to-open-london-museum-at-final-gig-site#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 20:07:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[McCartney said the idea was driven by the lack of public access to key Beatles sites in London]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Beatles will open their first official London museum next year inside the historic Mayfair building where they recorded their final album and performed their last live rooftop concert, Paul McCartney announced on Monday.

The new attraction, titled &#39;The Beatles at 3 Savile Row&#39;, will be located in central London&#39;s prestigious tailoring district and will span seven floors of previously unseen archive material, immersive exhibits and restored studio spaces linked to the band&#39;s final creative years.

The building&#39;s basement studio will be recreated to reflect the sessions for the 1970 album &#39;Let It Be&#39;, while visitors will also be able to access the rooftop where the band performed their iconic 1969 live set - widely regarded as their final public performance together.

McCartney said the idea was driven by the lack of public access to key Beatles sites in London, despite global fan interest. &quot;Tourists come to England and they can go to Abbey Road, but they can&#39;t go inside,&quot; he told the BBC, describing the project as &quot;a terrific idea&quot;.

The venue was formerly owned by Apple Corps, the company managing Beatles-related rights since 1968, which also used the Savile Row building as its headquarters during the band&#39;s final years and shortly after their 1970 breakup.

Apple Corps chief executive Tom Greene said the project would restore the building as a cultural destination for fans worldwide. He noted that visitors frequently gather outside the site, but will soon be able to explore its interior for the first time.

&quot;The rooftop railings remain exactly as they were on that famous day in 1969,&quot; Greene said.

Organisers said visitors would move through the building chronologically, culminating in the rooftop experience where guests can &quot;pretend to be a Beatle&quot;.]]>
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			<title>Eurovision opens under shadow of Gaza war</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607754/eurovision-opens-under-shadow-of-gaza-war</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607754/eurovision-opens-under-shadow-of-gaza-war#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 20:07:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[agencies]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Five countries boycott song contest over Israel's participation as protests and heavy security grip Vienna]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Eurovision Song Contest opened in Vienna on Tuesday under mounting political tension, with protests planned across the Austrian capital and five countries boycotting the competition over Israel&#39;s participation amid the ongoing Gaza war.

The annual music extravaganza, traditionally known for its flamboyant performances, colourful staging and celebration of European pop culture, has become deeply overshadowed by geopolitical divisions linked to Israeli genocide in Gaza.

Public broadcasters from Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia have withdrawn from this year&#39;s contest in protest against Israel&#39;s inclusion, reducing the competition to 35 entries - the smallest Eurovision field since 2003. The boycott is also expected to dent television audiences for one of the world&#39;s biggest live entertainment events. Last year&#39;s contest drew an estimated 166 million viewers worldwide, surpassing even the audience figures for the Super Bowl.

Hours before Tuesday evening&#39;s first semi-final, demonstrators were expected to gather in central Vienna for a pro-Palestinian protest anticipated to attract around 500 people. Austrian police said additional demonstrations, including spontaneous protests, could take place throughout the week, especially during Saturday&#39;s grand final.

Security has been significantly tightened around the event, with authorities seeking to prevent disruptions while maintaining public order in the city. Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig vowed the contest would proceed despite the tensions, reacting angrily last week after pro-Palestinian activists interrupted a public concert where he was speaking.

&quot;We will not let ourselves be terrorised into silence,&quot; Ludwig said, adding that extensive security measures had become necessary because of the political climate surrounding the event. He promised Vienna would still deliver &quot;a festival of togetherness&quot; despite the protests and heightened tensions.

The remarks sparked criticism from rights advocates, including Amnesty International Austria. Its co-director Shoura Hashemi accused the mayor of making &quot;false&quot; and &quot;divisive&quot; comments targeting peaceful demonstrators.

Austria&#39;s political establishment has broadly maintained strong support for Israel since the outbreak of the war, while pro-Palestinian protests in the country have remained relatively small compared with demonstrations elsewhere in Europe.

Irish broadcaster RTE reiterated its earlier position that participation in this year&#39;s Eurovision would have been &quot;unconscionable&quot; given the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Despite the controversy and boycott, Eurovision organisers insisted they hoped participating broadcasters that withdrew this year would eventually return to the competition.

Contest director Martin Green described the absent countries as &quot;members of our family&quot; and said organisers remained in dialogue to find &quot;pathways for them back.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Zara Noor Abbas speaks out against body-shaming, pressures on working mothers</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607657/zara-noor-abbas-speaks-out-against-body-shaming-pressures-on-working-mothers</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607657/zara-noor-abbas-speaks-out-against-body-shaming-pressures-on-working-mothers#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 07:04:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Life And Style Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Actor reflects on postpartum struggles, emotional healing after motherhood]]>
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				<![CDATA[Actor Zara Noor Abbas opened up in a candid interview, sharing the realities of motherhood, balancing her acting career with family life, and the support systems essential for a new mother.

Zara, who&nbsp;recently starred in the drama Dil Dhoondta Hai Phir Wohi&nbsp;on Express TV,&nbsp;is married to actor Asad Siddiqui and shares a daughter with him. She opened up about her experience with motherhood and how women are subjected to unnecessary body shaming over weight gain and are expected to &ldquo;bounce back&rdquo; immediately after pregnancy.





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Sharing her views on the societal and industry pressures faced by working mothers, Zara discussed the misconception that women cannot manage both career and family life. Pushing against these unrealistic standards, the actor called for emotional honesty and open conversations about motherhood in Pakistan, saying that mothers should not feel guilty for being tired, emotional, or imperfect.

Zara said motherhood completely changed her personality and emotional outlook. According to her, it made her calmer, softer, and more empathetic towards people, especially women and mothers. Further, she explained how priorities shift after one has a child and how a mother naturally becomes emotionally connected to her baby in a way that is difficult to describe.





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Zara also discussed being body shamed throughout her career and how it affected her emotionally. She said people in the entertainment industry and on social media constantly commented on her weight, body shape, and clothing choices, telling the actor she was &ldquo;too broad&rdquo; or &ldquo;too big&rdquo; for the industry.

She also revealed that some brands did not want to work with her because she was not considered &ldquo;petite&rdquo; enough.

The actor admitted that the criticism genuinely hurt her and affected her confidence, revealing that there were moments when comments about her body made her cry and question her identity.&nbsp;At one point, however, she realised she had to stop letting outside opinions define her, encouraging women to stop apologising for natural body changes caused by pregnancy and motherhood.

The actor stated that society should stop commenting on women&rsquo;s bodies, especially after they have gone through the intense&nbsp;physical experience of bringing a child into the world.]]>
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			<title>Colbert's curtain call</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607757/colberts-curtain-call</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607757/colberts-curtain-call#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 20:07:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Late-night television's biggest names reunite as host prepares to bid farewell to 'The Late Show']]>
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				<![CDATA[As Stephen Colbert prepares to sign off from &#39;The Late Show&#39; on May 21, American late-night television is staging something rare in a fiercely competitive industry: a collective farewell.

Rival hosts, former mentors and Hollywood stars are lining up not merely to promote projects, but to mark the end of an era that has shaped network comedy for more than three decades.

CBS confirmed that Colbert&#39;s final weeks will feature a parade of high-profile guests, including Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers and John Oliver, who will reunite on the programme for a special &#39;Strike Force Five&#39; gathering.

The hosts previously collaborated during the 2023 Hollywood writers&#39; and actors&#39; strikes, launching a podcast to support staff members left without pay during the shutdown.

The farewell schedule also carries symbolic weight. David Letterman, the original face of &#39;The Late Show&#39;, will appear on May 14 in what amounts to a passing-of-the-torch moment revisited one final time.

Letterman handed the franchise to Colbert in 2015 after dominating late-night television for decades following his departure from NBC.

Other guests set to appear before the final broadcast include Tom Hanks, Pedro Pascal, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and John Krasinski, alongside musical performances and comedy segments featuring Barack Obama, The Strokes and several Broadway stars.

Yet behind the celebratory atmosphere lies a deeper controversy surrounding the programme&#39;s cancellation. CBS announced in July 2025 that it would end &#39;The Late Show&#39;, describing the move as a financial decision during a period of upheaval across traditional television.

However, critics quickly questioned the timing because parent company Paramount was simultaneously pursuing regulatory approval for its merger with Skydance Media during Donald Trump&#39;s presidency.

Colbert, one of President Donald Trump&#39;s most relentless television critics, never softened his tone after the cancellation announcement. Instead, he repeatedly mocked both the network and reports claiming the show was losing nearly $40 million annually.

In a recent interview, Colbert joked darkly that the losses came because &quot;we killed people&quot;, before turning serious about the uncertain economics facing broadcast television.

&quot;The broadcast model is in huge trouble,&quot; Colbert admitted, while insisting late-night comedy had remained profitable for decades before industry conditions shifted dramatically after the pandemic and Hollywood strikes.

Colbert adopted a surprisingly reflective tone about his departure. Speaking candidly about the end of his 20-year late-night career, he said the timing coincides with deeply personal family milestones, including his son&#39;s graduation and his brother&#39;s wedding. &quot;The universe has conspired to give me the proper perspective,&quot; he remarked.

Despite uncertainty surrounding the future of late-night television, Colbert appears unwilling to disappear quietly. He revealed he is already co-writing a new film connected to the &#39;Lord of the Rings&#39; franchise, describing the project as a lifelong dream.

Still, as the final broadcast approaches, the larger question hanging over Hollywood is not simply what comes next for Colbert, but whether traditional late-night television itself is entering its final act.]]>
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			<title>FinMin Aurangzeb discusses upcoming budget preparations, economic reforms in meeting with IMF mission</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607861/finmin-aurangzeb-discusses-upcoming-budget-preparations-economic-reforms-in-meeting-with-imfmission</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607861/finmin-aurangzeb-discusses-upcoming-budget-preparations-economic-reforms-in-meeting-with-imfmission#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:09:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Mission chief acknowledges Pakistan's positive progress in maintaining macroeconomic stability despite challenges]]>
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				<![CDATA[Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday held a meeting with the visiting IMF mission to review Pakistan&rsquo;s macroeconomic outlook, discussed the upcoming budget preparations and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening economic stability and sustainable growth.

According to a statement issued by the&nbsp;Ministry of Finance,&nbsp;the discussions focused on Pakistan&#39;s macroeconomic stabilisation efforts, preparations for the upcoming federal budget, and the broader reform agenda aimed at strengthening fiscal and external sustainability.

&quot;Both sides exchanged views on maintaining reform momentum, preserving macroeconomic stability, and advancing structural reforms to promote investment, productivity, and export-led growth within a balanced and forward-looking policy framework,&quot; it stated.



Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb Briefs Visiting IMF Mission

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, today briefed the visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission on Pakistan&rsquo;s macroeconomic outlook, fiscal strategy, reform&hellip; pic.twitter.com/n3x8iY6sfz
&mdash; Ministry of Finance, Government of Pakistan (@Financegovpk) May 13, 2026


The finance minister expressed his appreciation to the Fund&#39;s continued engagement and dialogue with the Pakistani government, particularly acknowledging the discussions held during the Spring Meetings in Washington.

The finance ministry stated that while sharing developments in Pakistan&#39;s external sector, Aurangzeb highlighted positive trends in remittances and export performance. He briefed the delegation on recent data that indicated progress in exports on both a month-on-month and a year-on-year basis, &quot;reflecting growing resilience in the economy and a gradual strengthening of macroeconomic fundamentals.&quot;

Further, the finance minister emphasised that while economic stabilisation efforts had produced promising results, the government &quot;remained fully mindful of the structural challenges confronting the economy, particularly external liabilities and the need to accelerate sustainable, export-led growth.&quot;

Reiterating the government&#39;s commitment to &quot;deepening reforms aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability without compromising long-term growth prospects,&quot; Aurangzeb underscored the importance of moving Pakistan away from recurring boom-and-bust cycles through structural reforms, productivity enhancement, deregulation, and improved export competitiveness.

Read: Petroleum levy jumps 45% to Rs1.2tr

According to the ministry,&nbsp;Aurangzeb stated that the government&#39;s reform agenda had been &quot;carefully calibrated in consultation with international experts and economists,&quot; noting that ongoing policy measures were not driven by short-term considerations. Instead, the ministry noted, Aurangzeb stated that the measures formed part of a &quot;broader and technically grounded economic transformation strategy endorsed at the highest level.&quot;

The IMF mission was also briefed on Pakistan&#39;s continued engagement with its international development partners, such as China. The briefing included Pakistan&#39;s ongoing economic cooperation initiatives with China and &quot;efforts aimed at mobilising long-term investment aligned with the country&rsquo;s strategic economic priorities.&quot;

The mission, according to the finance ministry, was led by Iva Petrova, who &quot;acknowledged the positive progress made by Pakistan.&quot; The delegation also appreciated the government&#39;s commitment to &quot;prudent economic management and reform implementation.&quot;

Emphasising the importance of sustaining reform momentum, the IMF delegation also called for the maintenance of fiscal discipline and the advancement of structural reforms to support durable and inclusive economic growth.

&quot;Discussions during the meeting also focused on the broader macroeconomic framework, the government&rsquo;s reform agenda, and priorities for the upcoming budget,&quot; the ministry said.

Read More: IMF adds 11 new conditions

The IMF team reaffirmed its commitment to continued engagement and constructive cooperation with the Pakistani government&nbsp;in support of the country&rsquo;s economic reform programme and long-term economic resilience.

The meeting was attended by Governor State Bank of Pakistan Jameel Ahmad, Secretary Finance Division Imdad Ullah Bosal, Chairman Federal Board of Revenue Rashid Mahmood Langrial, and senior officials of the finance and revenue division, as well as the tax policy office.

The meeting came after the SBP announced it had received about $1.3 billion from the IMF under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes. The IMF Executive Board completed the third review under the EFF in its meeting held on May 8, 2026, approving the disbursement of SDR 760 million for Pakistan.

Further, the SBP said that the executive board also approved the disbursement of the second tranche of SDR 154 million under the RSF. It revealed that the bank had received SDR 914 million (about US $1.3 billion) under the EFF and RSF.

Last Friday, the executive board had&nbsp;approved $1.2 billion worth of loan tranches after Pakistan accepted a dozen new conditions and assured it would stick to the pre-war programme targets to stay on the course of stabilisation.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan reducing dependence on imported fuel for power generation: Leghari</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607890/pakistan-reducing-dependence-on-imported-fuel-for-power-generation-leghari</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607890/pakistan-reducing-dependence-on-imported-fuel-for-power-generation-leghari#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 11:52:29 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[APP]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Govt working to rationalise power costs for consumers without rooftop solar systems, he says]]>
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				<![CDATA[Power Minister&nbsp;Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari said on Wednesday that Pakistan was steadily reducing its dependence on imported fuel for electricity generation, with the share of indigenous energy sources expected to rise significantly over the next four to five years.

Responding to a calling attention notice regarding drastic changes in the net-metering policy for solar prosumers and the proposal to impose an 18%&nbsp;tax on solar panels, he said 74% of the electricity currently generated in the country was being produced from local sources, while only 26%&nbsp;depended on imported coal and gas.

He said the share of locally sourced energy was projected to increase to nearly 96%&nbsp;in the coming years, adding that Pakistan&rsquo;s reliance on imported fuel was continuously declining.

The minister said the government had completed a detailed study, initiated several months ago, regarding the conversion of imported coal-based power plants to locally produced Thar coal. He termed the initiative both feasible and economically viable.

He said the move would not only help reduce electricity prices but would also further decrease the country&rsquo;s dependence on imported fuel.

Leghari said wind and solar energy could not fully replace base-load power plants, adding that every country required reliable base-load generation capacity.

He said Pakistan would continue to rely on fossil fuel-based plants and hydropower to ensure energy stability, and also added that the government was not discouraging renewable energy projects, further saying&nbsp;that the sector continued to witness strong growth in the country.

Read: No new imported fuel-based IPPs

He said the government was working to rationalise electricity costs to ensure fairness for consumers who could not install rooftop solar systems and assured lawmakers that under the new prosumer regulations introduced by the government, investment in solar energy remained financially attractive for consumers.

The minister said that even under the revised net-metering regulations, if a consumer invested Rs100,000 in a solar system, the investment could be recovered within three years, which he described as a healthy rate of return, and the number of applications for solar net metering had continued to rise at the same pace as before, despite regulatory changes introduced in recent months, he said.

He added that the growth of solar net-metering consumers in the country was continuing steadily alongside broader efforts for cost rationalisation in the power sector, and added that the government had reviewed net-metering regulations in line with directives and ensured full protection for existing consumers who had already invested under previously agreed terms and conditions.

He said the sanctity of contracts signed with existing net-metering consumers had been maintained, with no changes made to their terms and conditions, and further clarified that revised regulations would apply only to new consumers joining in the future, who would move from net metering to net billing under the new framework.

The minister said electricity purchased from future prosumers would be bought at the average energy price of the national grid, currently around Rs9.80 per unit.

Read more: Pakistan turns to spot LNG market again

He explained that the grid&rsquo;s average electricity cost was calculated by combining multiple energy sources, including coal, diesel, furnace oil, gas, imported coal, local coal, nuclear and hydropower.

Leghari said the government&rsquo;s decision had been misunderstood in some quarters, with concerns that consumers might shift towards battery storage systems and also said that the investment in batteries should be viewed positively for both the national grid and consumers.

The minister warned that if prosumer regulations and buyback rates had not been revised, consumers not using net metering would have faced an additional burden of nearly Rs3 per unit and the financial impact on ordinary consumers could have increased to around Rs35 billion annually if corrective measures had not been introduced.

He said extensive consultations were held over nearly a year before finalising revisions to prosumer and net-metering regulations, and further added that the matter was first discussed at the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), later taken to the federal cabinet, and further deliberated upon on the prime minister&rsquo;s direction.

He said consultations were also held with solar associations, consumers and stakeholders, who recommended the gradual implementation of changes.

He said Pakistan originally launched net-metering regulations during the PML-N government in 2017&ndash;18 to encourage solar investment through attractive buyback rates, and that the framework had undergone several revisions since then and solar infrastructure costs had declined globally, while Pakistan had seen a sharp rise in solar adoption over the past few years.

He said Pakistan currently had between 23,000 and 24,000 megawatts&nbsp;of installed solar capacity, including around 8,000MW under net metering.

Leghari said government policies had enabled what he termed a &ldquo;green revolution&rdquo; in the country, without international climate financing support and citizens invested in solar systems through personal savings and loans due to rising electricity prices.

He said renewable energy growth would continue as long as it remained incentivised.

On load-shedding, he said Pakistan had around 14,000 electricity feeders, with 11,500 operating without load-shedding. He said load-shedding of between two and 16 hours was being carried out on the remaining feeders due to theft and losses.

He said the government was launching a programme to shift load management from feeder level to transformer level within a year and the goal was to reduce unnecessary outages by targeting high-loss areas more precisely.

Highlighting clean energy goals, he said renewable and clean energy currently accounted for around 55%&nbsp;of the national grid&rsquo;s energy mix, with a target of nearly 96% by 2032 and he also criticised the lack of international financial support for Pakistan&rsquo;s climate efforts, despite the country being among the most affected by climate change.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan receives $1.3b tranche from IMF: SBP</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607843/pakistan-receives-13b-tranche-from-imf-sbp</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607843/pakistan-receives-13b-tranche-from-imf-sbp#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 05:05:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[SBP says IMF Executive Board has also approved disbursement of second tranche of SDR 154 million under RSF]]>
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				<![CDATA[The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said on Wednesday it had received about $1.3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes, in a post on X.

The post read that, &quot;The IMF Executive Board completed third review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) in its meeting held on May 8, 2026, and approved the disbursement of SDR 760 million for Pakistan&quot;.

&quot;Furthermore, the IMF Executive Board has also approved the disbursement of the second tranche of SDR 154 million under the RSF,&quot; it added.



#SBP has received about US$1.3 billion under the IMF&rsquo;s EFF and RSF programs

The IMF Executive Board completed third review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) in its meeting held on 08 May 2026, and approved disbursement of SDR 760 million for Pakistan. Furthermore, the IMF&hellip;
&mdash; SBP (@StateBank_Pak) May 13, 2026


&quot;Accordingly, SBP has received SDR 914 million (equivalent to about US$ 1.3 billion) under the EFF and RSF in value May 12, 2026, from the IMF,&quot; SBP added in a statement.

The central bank said that &quot;the amount would be reflected in SBP&rsquo;s foreign exchange reserves for the week ending on May 15, 2026&quot;.

Read: Petroleum levy jumps 45% to Rs1.2tr

With the fresh approval, Pakistan has so far received a $4.5 billion loan from the IMF against two separate debt packages totaling $8.4 billion. Pakistan has access to another $1 billion under the Extended Fund Facility and $200 million under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility.

However, the government had to stick to the old fiscal and monetary targets and gave a commitment to stay on the path of stabilisation despite strong voices against these policies that have caused higher unemployment, higher poverty, and higher income inequality.

The government had to stick to the old fiscal and monetary targets and gave a commitment to stay on the path of stabilisation despite strong voices against these policies that have caused higher unemployment, higher poverty, and higher income inequality.

The IMF executive board also approved a modification of one end-June performance criterion, specifically the floor on net international reserves of the SBP. It also set new performance criteria for end-December 2026 and end-June 2027 for the central bank. The $1 billion debt would be used for balance of payment support, while the $200 million is given in budget support, according to government officials.

The IMF approval came after the government showed better performance against the fiscal and monetary targets, but there were divergent views about the path during the second half of this fiscal year.

The IMF mission had reviewed the performance of Pakistan&rsquo;s economy for the July-December 2025 period, covering the third review of the $7 billion bailout package.

Pakistan met all end-December 2025 quantitative performance criteria and also outperformed against the floor on net international reserves and comfortably met the general government&rsquo;s primary balance target.

Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan set for $200m IMF resilience fund

The government also met six of eight end-of-December 2025 indicative targets, but the Federal Board of Revenue remained the weakest link. It missed the targets on net tax revenues collected by the FBR and income tax revenues from retailers, which fell short of IMF targets.]]>
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			<title>KSE-100 drops 1,465 points amid oil price concerns, geopolitical uncertainty</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607873/imf-driven-rally-fizzles-amid-geo-political-concerns</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607873/imf-driven-rally-fizzles-amid-geo-political-concerns#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 09:06:51 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Index touched an intra-day high of 169,687.29 points and a low of 167,329.34 points during the session]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan equities witnessed a volatile session on Wednesday as early optimism at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) gave way to selling pressure amid rising geopolitical concerns.

The benchmark KSE-100 index opened on a positive note and displayed resilience during early trading hours, but the market later turned bearish and largely directionless as investors remained cautious amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty and elevated international oil prices.

Some buying activity was observed in key sectors, including automobile assemblers, cement, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, OMCs, power generation and refinery stocks.

The initial rally was largely driven by the State Bank of Pakistan&rsquo;s announcement that it had received $1.3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes, boosting investor confidence.

However, the momentum proved short-lived as geopolitical jitters dampened market sentiment, prompting investors to resort to profit-taking and offloading positions.
The benchmark KSE-100 index touched an intra-day high of 169,687.29 points and a low of 167,329.34 points during the session. By the close of trading, the index had declined by 1,465.09 points, or 0.87%, to settle at 167,451.14 points.

Read More: PSX ends lower amid choppy trading

Ahmed Sheraz, equity trader at KTrade Securities, observed that the KSE-100 index closed at 167,451 points, down 1,465 points (-0.87% DoD), in a mixed and largely directionless session as investors remained cautious amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty and elevated international oil prices. Volumes on benchmark KSE-100 stayed muted at 208 million shares, reflecting weak participation and lack of conviction across the market.

Broader market momentum remained subdued throughout the session. Despite oil hovering near the $107-109/bbl range during trading hours, the absence of any major geopolitical escalation or diplomatic breakthrough kept sentiment uncertain and range-bound.

Selling pressure was mainly witnessed in heavyweight names, including Habib Bank, United Bank, Bank Al Habib, Lucky Cement, and Hub Power, which collectively dragged the index lower. Commercial banks, technology, and cement sectors largely closed in the red as investors preferred cautious positioning amid the uncertain macro and geopolitical backdrop.

The session lacked a strong trigger from either the news flow, fundamentals, or technical side, resulting in confused and indecisive trading activity for most of the day. Market participants largely stayed defensive while awaiting clarity on regional developments and the Iran-US situation.

Going forward, Sheraz believed the focus should remain centred on geopolitical headlines, particularly developments surrounding Donald Trump&rsquo;s China visit and broader regional security dynamics. Until clearer direction emerges, range-bound and headline-driven activity is likely to persist in the near term.

During the day, volume of traded shares dropped to 684.9million from Tuesday&rsquo;s total of 1billion as value stood at Rs21billion. Shares of 483 companies were traded. Of these, 149 climbed, 298 fell, and 36 remained unchanged. &nbsp;Agha Steel was the volume leader with trading in 58.7million shares, gaining Rs 0.43 to close at Rs 8.70.]]>
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			<title>Oil prices slip on teetering Iran ceasefire as Trump heads to China</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607847/oil-prices-slip-on-teetering-iran-ceasefire-as-trump-heads-to-china</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607847/oil-prices-slip-on-teetering-iran-ceasefire-as-trump-heads-to-china#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 06:10:41 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Brent drops to $106, WTI to $101 as fragile Iran ceasefire, Trump-Xi summit fuel market uncertainty]]>
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				<![CDATA[Oil prices fell on Wednesday, snapping a ​three-day rally as investors awaited developments around the fragile Middle East ceasefire and braced for a high-stakes summit in &zwnj;China between United States President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping.

Brent crude futures dropped $1.22, or 1.1%, to $106.55 a barrel at 0410 GMT while US West Texas Intermediate futures fell $1.16, or 1.1%, to $101.02.

Both benchmarks have largely hovered around or above the $100 per barrel mark since the US and Israel began attacks ​on Iran at the end of February, and Tehran effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz.

&quot;Concerns over supply disruptions ​and uncertainty surrounding the Middle East are keeping oil prices well supported, even as traders ⁠struggle to establish a clear direction,&quot; said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova.

&quot;The market remains highly reactive to ​every update from the region, meaning sharp swings are likely to persist. Any further escalation or direct threat to supply flows ​could quickly revive strong upside momentum in both Brent and WTI,&quot; added Sachdeva.

Read: Oil prices rise as fragile US-Iran talks sustain supply worries

Oil prices rose by over 3% on Tuesday, extending earlier gains as hopes for a lasting US-Iran ceasefire faded, dimming prospects of reopening the strait, through which about a fifth of global oil and ​liquefied natural gas normally flows.

Trump said on Tuesday he does not think he will need China&#39;s help to end the war ​with Iran, even as hopes for a lasting peace deal dwindled and Tehran tightened its grip over the strait.

China is the biggest buyer of &zwnj;Iranian oil ⁠despite pressure from the Trump administration. Trump meets his Chinese counterpart, Xi, in Beijing on Thursday and Friday.

&quot;The length of the disruption and the scale of the supply loss - already more than 1 billion barrels - means oil prices are likely to remain above $80 per barrel for the rest of the year,&quot; Eurasia Group said in a client note.

Read More: &#39;Iran very much under control,&#39; Trump asserts ahead of China trip

The war with Iran ​has started to take its ​toll on the US economy, ⁠the world&#39;s biggest, as higher oil prices lead to more expensive fuels, and economists expect to see second-round effects in the months ahead.

In April, US consumer prices rose sharply for a ​second straight month, resulting in the largest annual increase in inflation in nearly three years, ​bolstering expectations that ⁠the Federal Reserve would keep interest rates flat for a while.

&quot;The marked increase in inflation across advanced economies has yet to cause real spending to contract, but the widespread decline in consumer sentiment and hiring intentions points to worse to come,&quot; Capital ⁠Economics said ​in a client note.

Elevated interest rates make borrowing more expensive, potentially denting ​demand for oil.

As the Iran war continues, US crude oil inventories fell for a fourth straight week last week, and distillate inventories also declined, according to ​market sources citing American Petroleum Institute data.]]>
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			<title>Trump lands in Beijing for high-stakes China visit</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607851/trump-says-he-does-not-need-chinas-help-to-end-iran-war</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607851/trump-says-he-does-not-need-chinas-help-to-end-iran-war#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 06:36:41 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[US president is accompanied by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Elon Musk to attend business summit with Xi Jinping]]>
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				<![CDATA[United States President Donald Trump landed in Beijing, accompanied by an entourage that included Nvidia&#39;s Jensen Huang and Elon Musk, on ​Wednesday after pledging to urge China&#39;s Xi Jinping to &quot;open up&quot; to US business at the start of their two-day summit.

He was welcomed by Chinese dignitaries, a tightly choreographed formation of military honour guard and dozens of Chinese students waving US and Chinese flags as he disembarked Air Force One in the waning hours of twilight on Wednesday.

Pausing midway down the red carpet as the students chanted &quot;welcome, welcome, warm welcome&quot; in Mandarin, he punched the air and smiled broadly ​before departing in his limousine.



.@POTUS proceeds down the red carpet in Beijing &mdash; briefly giving his signature fist pump to the assembled Military Honor Guard and Chinese youth flag wavers pic.twitter.com/aDBQdDjsx8
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 13, 2026





President Trump&#39;s motorcade departs Beijing Capital Airport for the hotel.

Tomorrow, @POTUS will participate in the official state arrival ceremony, meet with President Xi Jinping, sit for multiple interviews, and hold several other official events. pic.twitter.com/z9MvA3FIC1
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 13, 2026



Trump is seeking to snag some economic wins on the &zwnj;first visit by a US president to China in nearly a decade and maintain a fragile trade truce to prop up public approval ratings bruised by his war with Iran.

The CEOs accompanying Trump are drawn mainly from companies seeking to resolve business issues with China, such as Nvidia, which has struggled to get regulatory permission to sell its powerful H200 artificial intelligence chips there.

&quot;I will be ​asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to &#39;open up&#39; China so that these brilliant people can work their magic,&quot; he said in a post on ⁠Truth Social, referring to the CEO delegation. &quot;I will make that my very first request.&quot;



pic.twitter.com/ZyQvQlAE79
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 13, 2026



Asked about Trump&#39;s post, Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for China&#39;s foreign ministry, said Beijing stands ready to &quot;expand cooperation, manage differences ​and inject more stability and certainty into the turbulent world&quot;.

Trump&#39;s two days of meetings will include a grand reception at The Great Hall of the People, a tour of UNESCO heritage site Temple of Heaven and a state banquet.

Apart from trade, the talks will cover a host of sensitive subjects from the Iran war to US arms sales to Taiwan, the democratically governed island claimed by China.

Trump is widely expected to encourage ​China to convince Tehran to make a deal with Washington to end the conflict, though he has said he did not think he would need its help.

China reiterated on Wednesday its strong opposition to US ​arms sales to Taiwan, with the status of a $14-billion package awaiting Trump&#39;s approval still unclear.

US demands, rhetoric, lack of good faith obstacles to diplomacy: Iranian FM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the US&#39; maximalist approach, provocative rhetoric, and lack of good faith and sincerity were the primary obstacles standing between the current state of conflict and any prospect of a definitive end to the war and a potential agreement, according to Mehr News Agency.

Araghchi made the remarks during a meeting with Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik, Deputy Foreign Minister of Norway, who travelled to Tehran for the talks.



The Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Kravik , who is paying an official visit to Tehran, has held talks with the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran @araghchi. pic.twitter.com/xcaScKhyVa
&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) May 12, 2026


During the meeting, Araghchi confirmed that Iran, as a coastal state of the Strait of Hormuz, is currently in consultation to develop regulations governing arrangements for the strait based on international law. The statement formalises what senior Iranian officials have clearly signalled in recent weeks &mdash; that Tehran intends to establish a new legal order for the waterway.

Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Kravik underscored the necessity of establishing durable peace and stability in the region and announced Norway&#39;s readiness to contribute in strengthening diplomacy, providing consultations on maritime safety, and supporting environmental protection efforts.

Iran rejects Kuwait&#39;s &#39;baseless claims&#39; of IRGC infiltration 

The Iranian foreign ministry condemned the Kuwaiti government&rsquo;s detention of individuals who, according to the IRNA news agency, were performing their duties within the framework of a routine maritime patrol mission and had entered Kuwait&rsquo;s territorial waters due to a navigation system malfunction.

According to the IRNA, the ministry announced that it expected Kuwaiti authorities to refrain from hasty comments and baseless claims while pursuing the existing issues through official channels.



Iran rejects Kuwait&rsquo;s baseless claim regarding 4 Iranian citizenshttps://t.co/3TZGWzjJHq pic.twitter.com/u3V4x49tiQ
&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) May 13, 2026


It also requested granting the Iranian embassy in Kuwait access to the detained Iranian nationals in accordance with international legal norms, as well as their immediate release.

Saudi Arabia condemns IRGC infiltration

Saudi Arabia&#39;s foreign ministry denounced what it termed &quot;the infiltration carried out by an armed group from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of the Islamic Republic of Iran into Kuwait&rsquo;s Bubiyan Island.&quot;



#Statement | The Foreign Ministry expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s strongest condemnation and denunciation of the infiltration carried out by an armed group from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of the Islamic Republic of Iran into Kuwait&rsquo;s Bubiyan Island, with the&hellip; pic.twitter.com/t2fVFd4LT6
&mdash; Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) May 12, 2026


&quot;The Ministry stresses the Kingdom&#39;s categorical rejection of such hostilities that violate the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait.&quot;

Iran discusses Strait of Hormuz transit safety in talks with Azerbaijan

The top of diplomats of Iran and Azerbaijan held talks over the phone on Wednesday to discuss regional developments, as Tehran said it is seeking to develop arrangements aimed at strengthening and facilitating safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

A statement by the Iranian Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi discussed with his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov the latest developments related to diplomacy, regional issues and bilateral relations.

The discussions came a day after Araghchi said Tehran is holding consultations to develop executive arrangements aimed at strengthening and facilitating safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.

He made the remarks during a meeting in Tehran on Tuesday with Norway&rsquo;s Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik.

According to the ministry, Araghchi described what he called the United States&rsquo; &ldquo;maximalist approach,&rdquo; threatening rhetoric and &ldquo;lack of good faith&rdquo; as the main obstacles to a permanent end to the war and any potential agreement.

He also said the &ldquo;main source&rdquo; of the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz was the US and Israeli military attacks against Iran, followed by repeated ceasefire violations and the continued blockade of Iranian ports.

Italy to move minesweepers closer to Hormuz, rules out new military mission

Italy is preparing to move two minesweepers closer to the Strait of Hormuz as a precaution while ruling out any immediate request for a new military mission, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told lawmakers on Wednesday.

Crosetto said the ships would be repositioned in stages &mdash; first to the eastern Mediterranean and then to the Red Sea &mdash; within existing missions already authorised by parliament.

&ldquo;As a purely precautionary measure&hellip; we are arranging the minesweepers to be positioned relatively closer to the Strait,&rdquo; Crosetto said.

The ministers sought to reassure parliament that Italy is not expanding its military role without oversight, even as tensions threaten a key global shipping route.

&ldquo;We do not want to ask to authorise a new military mission in the Gulf,&rdquo; Tajani said, adding that any eventual participation in an international coalition would come &ldquo;only after the definitive cessation of hostilities.&rdquo;

Crosetto stressed that any new operation would require strict conditions: &ldquo;A new military mission envisages first a real truce, then a legal framework and finally the authorisation of Parliament,&rdquo; he said, describing the situation as &ldquo;fragile and precarious.&rdquo;

The session focused on international efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Italy, the ministers said, is acting within the prerogatives of existing foreign missions and sharing its plans &ldquo;with the utmost transparency.&rdquo;

Crosetto highlighted the scale of a potential multinational response, saying about 40 countries are considering contributing to securing the waterway, with 24 already signalling willingness to provide specialised capabilities.

Contributions under discussion include ships, support units and mine-neutralisation personnel from European and allied countries, alongside existing deployments already in the region.

Crosetto said parallel initiatives, including one promoted by the US, are developing alongside the broader effort. &ldquo;It is a matter of separate initiatives at the moment, but they will necessarily have to exchange information and coordinate,&rdquo; he said.

Chinese crude oil tanker seen sailing via Strait of Hormuz

A Chinese crude oil tanker transited the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, according to vessel-tracking data.

The tanker, identified as Yuan Hua Hu, was seen sailing past Iran&rsquo;s Larak Island before continuing its voyage, according to MarineTraffic data cited in the report.

The vessel is reported to have a Chinese owner and crew.

The development comes as US President Donald Trump is visiting China from Wednesday to Friday.

Tehran&#39;s message to Beijing

Iran&#39;s Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, outlined Tehran&#39;s diplomatic communication with Beijing in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran.

According to Mehr, Fazli said China had worked to keep the path to dialogue open through multiple channels &mdash; including consultations with key regional actors, a joint peace initiative with Pakistan that helped lay the groundwork for the Islamabad talks, and a four-point proposal advanced by President Xi Jinping.

The ambassador stressed that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement between Iran and China carries significance well beyond its economic dimensions. &quot;This document is not only about investment, oil, infrastructure, or trade,&quot; he said. &quot;It is about how Iran defines its place in a changing global order.&quot;

He added that long-term cooperation with China creates a form of diplomatic strategic depth for Iran &mdash; one that allows Tehran to demonstrate concretely that it has real options, important partners, and alternative capacities in the face of US pressure.

Trump does not need China&#39;s help

Trump said on Tuesday he does not think he will need China&#39;s help to end the war with Iran, even as hopes for a lasting peace deal dwindled and Tehran tightened its grip over the Strait of Hormuz.

Ahead of a high-stakes summit in Beijing, Trump said he did not think he would need to enlist Xi Jinping to resolve the conflict, which has continued to block maritime traffic that normally provides one-fifth of the world&#39;s oil supply.

&quot;I don&#39;t think we need any help with Iran. We&#39;ll win it one way or the other, peacefully or otherwise,&quot; he told reporters.

More than one month after a tenuous ceasefire took effect, the two sides have made no progress on an agreement to end hostilities.

Iran, meanwhile, has appeared to firm up its control over the Strait of Hormuz, cutting deals with Iraq and Pakistan to ship oil and liquefied natural gas from the region, according to sources with knowledge of the matter.

Other countries are exploring similar deals, sources said, in a move that could normalise Tehran&#39;s control of the waterway on a more permanent basis.

Read: Trump hails Pakistan&#39;s &#39;great mediation&#39; role

The Trump administration said on Tuesday that senior US and Chinese officials had agreed last month that no country should be able to charge tolls on traffic through the region, in an effort to project consensus on the issue ahead of the summit.

China, which maintains ties with Iran and remains a major buyer of its oil, did not dispute that characterisation.

Trump is due to discuss the war with Xi during meetings scheduled for Thursday to Friday, and is widely expected to encourage China to convince Tehran to make a deal with Washington to end the conflict.

US demands include ending Iran&#39;s nuclear program and lifting its chokehold on the strait.

Iran has responded with demands of its own, including compensation for war damage, the lifting of the US blockade, and an end to the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, where US ally Israel is fighting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants. Trump dismissed those positions as &quot;garbage&quot; on Monday.

Price of war

As the costs of the war mount, Trump said on Tuesday that Americans&rsquo; financial struggles did not influence his thinking on the Iran war.

The Labour Department said earlier in the day that US consumer inflation continued to accelerate in April, with the annual rate posting its largest gain in three years. The data showed food prices surged, while rental costs and airfares also climbed.

Asked by a reporter to what extent Americans&rsquo; economic pain was motivating him to strike a deal, Trump said: &ldquo;Not even a little bit.&rdquo;

&quot;The only thing that matters, when I&rsquo;m talking about Iran, they can&rsquo;t have a nuclear weapon,&quot; Trump said before leaving the White House for his trip to China. &quot;I don&rsquo;t think about Americans&rsquo; financial situation. I don&rsquo;t think about anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. That&rsquo;s all. That&#39;s the only thing that motivates me.&quot;

The remarks are likely to draw scrutiny from critics as cost-of-living concerns remain a top issue for voters ahead of the November midterm elections.

Brent crude oil futures extended gains, climbing to more than $107 a barrel, as the deadlock left the Strait of Hormuz largely closed.

US Central Command said the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln was in the Arabian Sea enforcing the US blockade, where it had redirected 65 commercial vessels and disabled four others.

The Pentagon put the cost of the war at $29 billion so far, an increase of $4 billion from an estimate provided late last month. An official told lawmakers the new cost included updated repair and replacement of equipment and operational costs.

Surveys show the war is unpopular with US voters, less than six months before nationwide elections that will determine whether Trump&#39;s Republican Party retains control of Congress.

Two out of three Americans, including one in three Republicans and almost all Democrats, think Trump has not clearly explained why the country has gone to war, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday.

A Fars news agency report cited an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps official as saying Iran had expanded its definition of the Strait of Hormuz into a zone stretching from the coast of the city of Jask in the east to Siri Island in the west.

In Tehran, the Guards held drills &quot;centred on preparation to confront the enemy&quot;, state TV reported.

Trump says stopping Iran&#39;s nuclear program outweighs Americans&#39; economic pain

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Americans&rsquo; financial struggles are not a factor in his decision-making as he seeks to negotiate an end to the Iran war, saying ​that preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon is his top priority.

Asked by a reporter &zwnj;to what extent Americans&rsquo; financial situations were motivating him to strike a deal, Trump said: &ldquo;Not even a little bit.&rdquo;

&quot;The only thing that matters, when I&rsquo;m talking about Iran, they can&rsquo;t have a nuclear weapon,&quot; Trump said before departing the White ​House for a trip to China. &quot;I don&rsquo;t think about Americans&rsquo; financial situation. I don&rsquo;t think about ​anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. ⁠That&rsquo;s all. That&#39;s the only thing that motivates me.&quot;

Trump&#39;s remarks are likely to draw scrutiny from critics ​who argue the administration should balance geopolitical objectives with the economic impact on Americans, particularly as cost-of-living ​concerns remain a top issue for voters ahead of the November midterm elections.

Asked to elaborate on the president&#39;s comments, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said that Trump&#39;s &quot;ultimate responsibility is the safety and security of Americans. Iran cannot have a ​nuclear weapon, and if action wasn&rsquo;t taken, they&rsquo;d have one, which threatens all Americans.&quot;

Trump is under growing ​pressure from fellow Republicans who fear economic pain caused by the war could spark a backlash against the party and &zwnj;cost ⁠it control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate in November.

Rising energy costs linked to the Iran conflict have pushed up gasoline prices and contributed to inflation. US consumer inflation in April posted its largest gain in three years, according to data released on Tuesday.]]>
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			<title>Lavrov accuses US of seeking control over global energy, distracting from Palestine</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607883/lavrov-accuses-us-of-seeking-control-over-global-energy-distracting-from-palestine</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607883/lavrov-accuses-us-of-seeking-control-over-global-energy-distracting-from-palestine#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 10:29:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607883</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Claims US wants Russian energy bought at one-tenth the price Europeans paid]]>
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				<![CDATA[Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the Trump administration of attempting to &ldquo;usurp&rdquo; influence over the global energy market on Wednesday.

Lavrov claimed Washington&rsquo;s objective was to force Russian energy firms such as Lukoil and Rosneft out of international markets as part of a broader strategy to control global energy flows.

&ldquo;The United States has adopted a series of doctrinal documents, one of which proclaims that the US must dominate global energy markets,&quot; he said in an interview with RT India. &quot;So their goal is entirely clear: they want to bring every significant energy supply route under their control.&quot;

As part of this strategy, Washington is seeking control over key energy transit routes, including the damaged Nord Stream pipelines and gas transit infrastructure through Ukraine, he argued.

Washington plans also include shaping future European energy pricing and supply arrangements, Lavrov claimed.

Also Read: US demands, rhetoric, lack of good faith obstacles to diplomacy: Iranian FM

He argued that if the Nord Stream pipelines are used again, energy prices in Europe would no longer be determined through agreements between Russia and Germany but instead by the US, which he claimed seeks greater control over European energy infrastructure and supply.

&quot;They want to purchase it at roughly one-tenth of what the Europeans paid for it,&rdquo; he said.

At the same time, Lavrov said Moscow welcomed contacts initiated by Trump and noted that communication channels between the two countries remain active, including between the Russian Foreign Ministry and the US State Department.

&ldquo;However, nothing is happening in real life. Aside from this regular dialogue &ndash; which is normal in relations between people and countries &ndash; everything else follows the pattern initiated by President (Joe) Biden,&quot; he said.

Read More: US lawmaker says Washington lost 39 aircraft in Iran war, citing defense report

Lavrov noted that sanctions introduced under the previous US administration remain in force and that additional measures targeting the Russian economy had since been adopted.

Commenting on tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Lavrov warned that instability around major maritime trade routes could severely affect global energy markets.

&quot;Europe will probably be impacted more than anyone else by the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. Beyond that, bans on Russian gas and oil imports mean switching to US liquefied natural gas, which is dramatically more expensive,&quot; he said.

&quot;The Nord Stream pipelines have been blown up. Now we are witnessing an aggression in the Strait of Hormuz. Word is out that the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait could also become a zone of confrontation, and the ensuing damage to global energy markets would be immeasurable,&quot; he said.

Distracting from Palestine

Commenting on the situation in the Middle East in an interview with RT India, Lavrov said ongoing US-provoked disputes involving Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, Greenland and Canada were distracting international attention from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

&quot;All of the efforts that are being taken right now on Venezuela, Iran, Cuba, Greenland, and now Canada ... all of these issues are moving us away from settling the most protracted, the most negative crisis in the world &ndash; that is, the crisis around Palestine,&quot; he said.

The minister criticised American proposals regarding the future of the Gaza Strip, saying they did not address the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Also Read: Oil prices slip on teetering Iran ceasefire as Trump heads to China

&quot;I have no doubt that when plans to stir up aggression against Iran were being hatched, one of the goals was to prevent the normalization of relations between Iran and the Arab states,&quot; he said.

He added: &quot;Now, everything is being done to ensure that reconciliation never happens ... and to pull its other Gulf neighbours into structures that, first, will not focus on resolving the Palestinian issue, and second, will force them to betray the Palestinian cause as the price for normalising relations with Israel.&quot;

Lavrov argued that failure to create such a state would prolong instability and extremism in the region for decades.

&ldquo;We are returning to a period when everything is decided by force and international law is ignored,&rdquo; Lavrov said.

India, Pakistan tensions

Commenting on tensions between India and Pakistan, Lavrov suggested that external actors may be contributing to fanning the disagreements, arguing that Western countries are not interested in deeper Eurasian integration within frameworks such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

&quot;The West would prefer that countries in the region remain preoccupied with disputes among themselves rather than focus on the task we discussed today &ndash; the development of Eurasian continental integration. Such integration does not align with Western interests,&quot; he said.

The foreign minister also highlighted the long-standing military-technical partnership between Russia and India. He noted that cooperation had evolved from arms sales to joint production projects, including BrahMos missiles, Kalashnikov rifles and licenced production of T-90 tanks in India.

&ldquo;India&rsquo;s defence capability is an area of our relations where we have practically no secrets from our Indian friends,&rdquo; Lavrov said.]]>
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			<title>US lawmaker says Washington lost 39 aircraft in Iran war, citing defense report</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607868/us-lawmaker-says-washington-lost-39-aircraft-in-iran-war-citing-defense-report</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607868/us-lawmaker-says-washington-lost-39-aircraft-in-iran-war-citing-defense-report#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:50:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[An F-35A hit inside Iranian airspace, an E-3 Sentry destroyed, the Pentagon won't confirm losses]]>
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				<![CDATA[US Democratic Congressman Ed Case said on Tuesday that the United States has lost 39 aircraft since the start of the war with Iran on February 28, citing a report from a US defence publication.

Case made the remarks during a special Senate committee hearing while questioning Pentagon Chief Financial Officer Jay Hurst about the extent of damage suffered during the conflict.

&ldquo;We&#39;ve lost about 39 aircraft, according to a report in The War Zone, and that&#39;s an old one that&#39;s almost one month old,&rdquo; Case said, asking Hurst whether the Pentagon had calculated &ldquo;a retention cost on all those aircraft.&rdquo;

Hurst replied: &ldquo;There are costs there, sir, but I want to get back to you in writing and what they specifically are, because, as you can imagine, repair of aircraft is something that&#39;s very hard to calculate.&rdquo; &ldquo;We want to do a full diagnosis of the aircraft before we estimate that cost,&rdquo; he added.

Also Read: Iran war to cast a shadow on BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Delhi

The report cited by Case, published by US defence news outlet The War Zone, said the US Air Force carried out nearly 13,000 flights during the conflict with Iran.

According to the report, 39 aircraft were destroyed and another 10 sustained varying levels of damage.

The report also claimed that an F-35A Lightning II fighter jet was hit inside Iranian airspace and that a Boeing E-3 Sentry aircraft was destroyed.

The claims could not be independently verified, and Pentagon officials did not publicly confirm the alleged losses during the hearing.

Regional tensions escalated after the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, triggering retaliation from Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through mediation by Pakistan, but talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement.

The truce was later extended by US President Donald Trump without a set deadline.]]>
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			<title>Trump says stopping Iran's nuclear programme outweighs Americans' economic pain</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607852/trump-says-stopping-irans-nuclear-programme-outweighs-americans-economic-pain</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607852/trump-says-stopping-irans-nuclear-programme-outweighs-americans-economic-pain#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 07:03:22 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607852</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Trump under growing ​pressure from Republicans who fear economic pain caused by war could spark backlash against party]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Americans&rsquo; financial struggles are not a factor in his decision-making as he seeks to negotiate an end to the Iran war, saying ​that preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon is his top priority.

Asked by a reporter &zwnj;to what extent Americans&rsquo; financial situations were motivating him to strike a deal, Trump said: &ldquo;Not even a little bit.&rdquo;

&quot;The only thing that matters, when I&rsquo;m talking about Iran, they can&rsquo;t have a nuclear weapon,&quot; Trump said before departing the White ​House for a trip to China. &quot;I don&rsquo;t think about Americans&rsquo; financial situation. I don&rsquo;t think about ​anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. ⁠That&rsquo;s all. That&#39;s the only thing that motivates me.&quot;

Trump&#39;s remarks are likely to draw scrutiny from critics ​who argue the administration should balance geopolitical objectives with the economic impact on Americans, particularly as cost-of-living ​concerns remain a top issue for voters ahead of the November midterm elections.

Asked to elaborate on the president&#39;s comments, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said that Trump&#39;s &quot;ultimate responsibility is the safety and security of Americans. Iran cannot have a ​nuclear weapon, and if action wasn&rsquo;t taken, they&rsquo;d have one, which threatens all Americans.&quot;

Also Read: Trump hails Pakistan&#39;s &#39;great mediation&#39; role

Trump is under growing ​pressure from fellow Republicans who fear economic pain caused by the war could spark a backlash against the party and &zwnj;cost ⁠it control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate in November.

Rising energy costs linked to the Iran conflict have pushed up gasoline prices and contributed to inflation.

US consumer inflation in April posted its largest gain in three years, according to data released on Tuesday.

Trump framed his approach as a matter of ​national and global security, ​suggesting economic concerns were ⁠secondary to preventing nuclear proliferation.

US intelligence assessments, however, indicate that the time Iran would need to build a nuclear weapon has not changed since last summer, when ​analysts estimated that a US-Israeli attack had increased the timeline to nine ​months to a ⁠year, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The assessments of Tehran&#39;s nuclear programme remain broadly unchanged even after two months of war.

Trump&#39;s allies have echoed his argument that the risks posed by a ⁠nuclear-armed Iran ​outweigh short-term economic hardships.]]>
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			<title>Iran war to cast a shadow on BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Delhi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607859/iran-war-to-cast-a-shadow-on-brics-foreign-ministers-meeting-in-delhi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607859/iran-war-to-cast-a-shadow-on-brics-foreign-ministers-meeting-in-delhi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:04:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607859</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Iran urges India to use the BRICS platform to build consensus condemning US -Israeli actions in Gulf]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The US-Israeli war on ​Iran is set to cast a shadow over a two-day meeting of the foreign ministers &zwnj;of the BRICS grouping that kicks off in New Delhi on Thursday, testing the bloc&#39;s ability to reach a unified position and produce a joint statement.

The grouping, which originally included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded over the years with ​the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran had urged India, the BRICS ​chair for 2026, to use the BRICS platform to build a consensus condemning US ⁠and Israeli actions in the Gulf conflict.

The main differences have emerged between Iran and the United Arab ​Emirates, which are on opposing sides of the front line in a war launched by the US&nbsp;and Israel ​on February 28.

Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is likely to arrive late on Wednesday to attend the gathering, which will run through May 14&ndash;15. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is also expected to attend the meeting.

It was not immediately clear who would represent ​the UAE during the meeting. The latest round could be tense after reports that the UAE and Saudi Arabia carried ​out military strikes on Iran in retaliation for Iranian strikes.

Read: Trump says he does not need China&#39;s help to end Iran war

Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said in March that &zwnj;some BRICS ⁠members were involved directly in the conflict, due to which it had been &quot;difficult for us to forge a consensus.&quot;

Another ministry official told Reuters India was hopeful to get a joint statement after the latest round of meetings with foreign ministers.

&quot;Glad that the foreign ministers from all the BRICS countries, except China, who is otherwise ​tied up, are coming. This ​is a good sign ⁠on efforts to build a BRICS coalition around a matter of interest to emerging economies and the global south,&quot; said former Indian diplomat Manjeev Singh Puri.

&quot;Of course, ​political solutions are difficult, but the fact that they are meeting is positive, ​and hopefully ⁠it will lead to a way forward.&quot;

Soaring energy prices caused by the war have prompted many BRICS nations, including India, to introduce emergency measures to protect their economies and consumers.

So far, China has taken a nominally neutral stance, ⁠given its ​robust ties with both Iran and Sunni-majority Arab states.

China will ​be represented by its Ambassador to India Xu Feihong to fill in for their Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is unlikely to travel ​with US President Donald Trump visiting Beijing this week.]]>
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			<title>PTCL warns of internet disruption during evenings from May 11-18</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607318/ptcl-warns-of-internet-disruption-during-evenings-from-may-11-18</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607318/ptcl-warns-of-internet-disruption-during-evenings-from-may-11-18#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 10 May 26 11:06:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607318</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Company says maintenance activity is planned on one of its submarine cables to repair fault]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) announced on Sunday that customers may face internet service degradation during the evenings from May 11-18.

In a post on X, the company said that maintenance activity was planned on one of its submarine cables to repair a fault by the International Cable Consortium.

&quot;Due to this maintenance, which will begin from tomorrow (Monday) and which can last for seven days, customers may have to face disruption in their internet service,&quot; it stated.



Important Notice 📢 pic.twitter.com/gPJBEI9toH
&mdash; PTCL (@PTCLOfficial) May 10, 2026


Last month, the telecommunications company posted a similar notice to X, stating that maintenance activity was planned on one of its submarine cables to repair a fault by the consortium.

This activity, which was to start on April 14, 2026, was to potentially last until April 20, 2026. Saying that customers may face internet service disruptions during the period, PTCL had expressed its regret for the inconvenience.



Important Notice 📢 pic.twitter.com/KHvBfrbQfe
&mdash; PTCL (@PTCLOfficial) April 13, 2026


PTCL had posted a net loss of over Rs10.46 billion in FY2025 despite earning revenue of Rs168.80 billion, while its total assets stood at Rs485.23 billion, the finance ministry reported in February this year.

Read: Five PTCL employees abducted in Bannu

According to the finance ministry&#39;s Central Monitoring Unit, the telecommunications company reported losses of Rs6.63 billion in FY2023-24, while a year earlier, in 2022-23, the company incurred a loss of Rs15.54 billion.

The company, which had recorded a profit of Rs28 billion in 2005-05, the year in which management control had been sold to United Arab Emirates-based telecom operator Etisalat, the profitability of the company continued to decline in subsequent years, eventually turning negative.

However, last month, it was reported that PTCL returned to profit following the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan. The company had also announced that it would formally launch Fifth Generation (5G) telecom services in May.]]>
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			<title>Apple, Intel have reached preliminary chip-making deal: report</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607056/apple-intel-have-reached-preliminary-chip-making-deal-report</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607056/apple-intel-have-reached-preliminary-chip-making-deal-report#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 08 May 26 17:47:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607056</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The two companies held talks for over a year and finalised a formal deal in recent months]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Intel has reached a preliminary deal with Apple to make some of the chips that power the iPhone maker&#39;s devices, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, in ​a major boost for the chipmaker&#39;s bid to revive its manufacturing business.

The companies were engaged &zwnj;in intensive talks for more than a year and they hammered out a formal deal in recent months, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

Read More: Apple&#39;s iPhone shipments in China surge 20% in Q1, data shows

Intel stock extended gains to rise 15% on the news, while Apple&nbsp;shares ​were up about 1.7% in afternoon trading.

Landing an Apple contract will give Intel a steady stream ​of demand from one of the world&#39;s largest consumer electronics companies, bolstering both ⁠its reputation and a manufacturing business that has fallen behind TSMC in recent years.

The Journal report said ​that the US&nbsp;government, which became Intel&#39;s largest shareholder last year under a deal with its CEO ​Lip-Bu Tan, played a major role in bringing Apple to the negotiating table.

It is unclear which Apple products Intel would make chips for, according to the report. Apple and the White House did not immediately respond to Reuters&#39; requests for ​comment; Intel declined to comment.

For Apple, a deal with Intel could mean a diversification in manufacturing, giving ​it the ability to secure more capacity as it has been beholden to extremely tight capacity at TSMC.

At its most &zwnj;recent ⁠earnings, Apple CEO Tim Cook said iPhone sales were&nbsp;held back&nbsp;by supply constraints at its contract manufacturer.

TSMC is the world&#39;s largest contract chipmaker and makes advanced wafers for AI firms such as Nvidia and AMD&nbsp;but the swelling demand has made securing chip capacity extremely difficult.

Big win for Intel

Intel has spent the last ​year&nbsp;signing deals with the ​US&nbsp;government&nbsp;and securing ⁠investments from AI chip giant&nbsp;Nvidia&nbsp;and&nbsp;SoftBank&nbsp;amid a push from CEO Lip-Bu Tan to turn the chipmaker around.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has met repeatedly over the ​last year with high-ranking Apple officials, including Cook, SpaceX chief ​Elon Musk ⁠and Nvidia head Jensen Huang, to try to convince them to get into business with Intel, the WSJ report said.

Last month, Musk said Tesla&nbsp;will use Intel&#39;s next-generation 14A manufacturing process&nbsp;to make chips at its Terafab project, ⁠an ​advanced AI chip complex Musk has envisioned in Austin.

Earlier this ​week, Bloomberg News reported that&nbsp;Apple had held exploratory discussions&nbsp;about using Intel and Samsung to produce main processors for its devices.]]>
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			<title>IMF warns of 'inevitable' AI-powered threats to global financial system</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606871/imf-warns-of-inevitable-ai-powered-threats-to-global-financial-system</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606871/imf-warns-of-inevitable-ai-powered-threats-to-global-financial-system#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 26 18:21:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2606871</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Highlights risks posed by highly interconnected nature of global financial system]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned on Thursday of the risks to global financial stability posed by cyberattacks powered by advanced artificial intelligence tools, calling for greater international cooperation on the issue.

&quot;IMF analysis suggests that extreme cyber-incident losses could trigger funding strains, raise solvency concerns and disrupt broader markets,&quot; the lender warned in a new report.

The study&#39;s authors highlighted the risks posed by the highly interconnected nature of the global financial system, with advanced AI models able to &quot;dramatically reduce&quot; the time and cost of exploiting vulnerabilities.

The warning comes weeks after AI company Anthropic cautioned that its yet-to-be-released &quot;Mythos&quot; model was incredibly adept at finding and exploiting such weaknesses.

The model was particularly efficient at identifying vulnerabilities that developers and users had been previously unaware of.

In the hands of hackers, such so-called &quot;zero-day&quot; vulnerabilities are considered particularly dangerous.

On Wednesday, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett told Fox News that an &quot;all-government&quot; and private sector effort was being made to test the model and ensure it does not cause harm to US businesses or government.

A day earlier, the US government announced a policy shift in which it would have access to tech giants&#39; new AI models to evaluate them before they are released.

Read More: Pakistan assures IMF to withdraw untargeted power subsidies in January

The IMF warned that emerging and developing countries, &quot;which often have more severe resource constraints, may be disproportionately exposed to attackers targeting regions with weaker defences&quot;.

The risks, the authors said, were systemic, cut across sectors and came with the threat of contagion, with the reliance on a small number of platforms and cloud providers likely to increase &quot;the impact of any single exploited weakness&quot;.

&quot;Defences will inevitably be breached, so resilience must also be a priority, specifically to limit how far incidents spread and ensure rapid recovery,&quot; the report said.

IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned last month that the global financial system was not ready for the cybersecurity threats posed by AI.

&quot;We are very keen to see more attention to the guardrails that are necessary to protect financial stability in a world of AI,&quot; she told CBS News, seeking global collaboration on the issue.]]>
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			<title>Irish footballers urge boycott of Israel match</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606886/irish-footballers-urge-boycott-of-israel-match</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606886/irish-footballers-urge-boycott-of-israel-match#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 26 20:43:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2606886</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[An open letter sent to FAI from campaign group Irish Sport for Palestine]]>
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				<![CDATA[Leading Irish footballers have joined ?with celebrities in a campaign urging the Republic of Ireland to boycott a UEFA Nations League match against Israel later this year.

An open letter sent to the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) from campaign group Irish Sport for Palestine accuses Israel of engaging in &quot;genocide&quot; in the war in Gaza and of breaching UEFA and FIFA statutes by allowing teams to play on occupied Palestinian land.

In November 2025, 93% of FAI members voted for its leadership to press UEFA ?to suspend Israel under those statutes, a mandate campaigners say the Irish governing body should &#39;respect and represent&#39;.

Israel has denied that its forces have committed genocide during the war in Gaza.

Reuters has contacted the FAI and the Israel Football Association (IFA) for comment.

The letter, entitled &quot;Stop the Game&quot;, was signed by League of Ireland players, former men&#39;s coach Brian Kerr and twice women&#39;s player of the year Louise Quinn.

Irish rock band Fontaines D.C., hip-hop trio Kneecap and singer-songwriter Christy Moore were among the other signatories along with Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea.

Ireland are set to host Israel at Dublin&#39;s Aviva Stadium on October 4, while a September 27 fixture designated as an Israeli home match is expected to be staged at a neutral venue.

The letter includes ?a statement ?from Shamrock Rovers captain and Professional Footballers&#39; Association of Ireland chair Roberto Lopes.

&quot;We can&#39;t ignore the humanitarian catastrophe in Palestine; the sheer loss of life there has to take precedence over any sporting consideration,&quot; said Dublin-born Lopes, who is set to play at the World Cup for Cape Verde in June. &quot;Ireland has an opportunity here to lead and do what others won&#39;t.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Young Europeans turn to AI chatbots for emotional support, survey shows</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606492/young-europeans-turn-to-ai-chatbots-for-emotional-support-survey-shows</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606492/young-europeans-turn-to-ai-chatbots-for-emotional-support-survey-shows#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 26 14:35:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2606492</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[51% found chatbots easy for mental health talks; 49% said so for doctors, 37% psychologists]]>
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				<![CDATA[Nearly one in two young people in Europe have used AI chatbots to discuss intimate or personal matters, as the technology increasingly serves as a source of emotional support, an Ipsos BVA survey showed on Tuesday.

Of the 3,800 people surveyed, 51% said it was &quot;easy&quot; to discuss mental health and personal issues with a chatbot. Only 49% said the same about healthcare professionals and 37% about psychologists.

People close to them were at the top of the list, with 68% saying it was easy to discuss issues with friends and 61% with parents.

The survey, commissioned by France&#39;s privacy watchdog CNIL and insurer Groupe VYV, was carried out among people aged 11 to 25 across France, Germany, Sweden and Ireland in early 2026.

The findings showcased growing concerns over young people&#39;s mental health. About 28% of respondents met the threshold for suspected generalized anxiety disorder, the survey found.

Around 90% of those surveyed had used artificial intelligence tools before, with many citing their constant availability and non-judgmental nature. More than three in five users described AI as a &quot;life adviser&quot; or a &quot;confidant&quot;.

However, concerns over the psychological impact of AI tools have also grown over the past year, and experts have warned about the limitations of AI in detecting human emotions and safely providing emotional support.

Read More: Pentagon makes deal to expand use of Google AI: reports

Earlier this year, the family of a Florida man sued Google, alleging its Gemini AI chatbot contributed to his paranoia and eventual suicide.

The results of the survey were not a surprise, said Ludwig Franke F&ouml;yen, a psychologist and digital health researcher at Stockholm&#39;s Karolinska Institutet.

Current large language models can produce high-quality responses, Franke F&ouml;yen told Reuters, adding that his research suggested even licensed professionals may struggle to distinguish AI-generated advice from that of human experts.

But he warned against relying on chatbots alone for mental health support, saying general-purpose AI systems were designed for engagement and companies&#39; goals may not align with mental healthcare needs.

&quot;AI can offer information and support, but it should not replace human relationships or professional care,&quot; Franke F&ouml;yen said. &quot;If someone turns to a chatbot instead of speaking to a parent, a friend, or a mental health professional, that is a concern. We do not want technology to make people feel more alone.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Shan XI in Shambles: How Pakistan Imploded in Mirpur</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607842/shan-xi-in-shambles-how-pakistan-imploded-in-mirpur</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607842/shan-xi-in-shambles-how-pakistan-imploded-in-mirpur#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 23:56:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[FAHAD PARVEZ]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607842</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Senior players failed to deliver as familiar weaknesses resurfaced in another disappointing overseas performance]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan&rsquo;s defeat in the first Test against Bangladesh in Mirpur was not just disappointing &mdash; it was a complete exposure of the flaws that continue to haunt Pakistan Test cricket. From questionable captaincy to a fragile batting lineup and a toothless pace attack, this loss had warning signs written all over it from Day 1.

The first major question must be directed at Shan Masood. On a Mirpur wicket that was always expected to deteriorate and make fourth-innings batting difficult, why on earth did Pakistan choose to bowl first? Surviving on a wearing Day 5 surface &mdash; let alone chasing 268 &mdash; was never going to be easy for a batting lineup already struggling for consistency. Pakistan simply does not possess the batting temperament or technical solidity to play out two-and-a-half sessions on the final day of a Test match.

The toss decision backfired badly and put Pakistan on the back foot from the outset.

Then comes the pace attack &mdash; or rather, the lack of one. Modern Test cricket demands fast bowlers who can intimidate, rush batters, and break partnerships through sheer pace and aggression. Pakistan currently has none. Opposition batters look far too comfortable against Pakistani pacers.

There is no fear factor, no sustained hostility, and no sense that wickets can fall in clusters. In home conditions, Pakistan employs an all-spin attack to mask the weaknesses of the fast bowlers. But outside Pakistan, where pacers are expected to lead the attack and dictate terms, the team&rsquo;s shortcomings become painfully obvious.

Bangladesh&rsquo;s batters looked composed for most of the match because the pressure simply was not there. The 37 extras gifted to them in the first innings only made an already strong batting performance look even more commanding.

Pakistan&rsquo;s batting was not much better either. Apart from debutants Azan and Abdullah making promising starts to their careers, there was very little to praise. Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, and Saud Shakeel failed to make meaningful contributions when the team desperately needed stability and authority.

These are senior batters expected to anchor the innings, yet their performances lacked intent, composure, and responsibility. While Agha and Rizwan&rsquo;s half-centuries helped avoid a disastrous collapse in the first innings, their contributions were not substantial enough to allow Pakistan to take control of the game.

There came a point when it seemed Pakistan would secure a first-innings lead. But instead of batting with discipline and awareness, the middle and lower order played loose and careless cricket, throwing wickets away and eventually conceding a lead instead. Test matches are often decided in such moments, and Pakistan lost the advantage there.

A huge part of that can be attributed to the tailenders&rsquo; inability to offer any resistance with the bat. Contemporary cricket no longer allows bowlers to survive solely on bowling ability. Tailenders across the world contribute valuable runs, frustrate opposition bowlers, and shift momentum through partnerships.

Pakistan&rsquo;s tail, meanwhile, collapses almost instantly and offers little once the recognized batters are gone. Bangladesh adding 29 runs for the 10th wicket in the first innings proved how valuable lower-order resistance can be. It is hard to remember the last time a Pakistani tail genuinely fought like that, survived crucial periods, and added vital runs under pressure.

That fighting spirit and resilience lower down the order often reflect how badly a team wants to win, and unfortunately Pakistan rarely seems to show that hunger. In the end, this was a thoroughly mediocre performance with both bat and ball by Shan XI.

Pakistan failed to demonstrate planning, discipline, aggression, or mental toughness. When a team carries multiple players who consistently fail to deliver and contribute little to the contest, overseas victories will remain a bridge too far.]]>
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			<title>Bangladesh hammer Pak in Dhaka Test</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607742/bangladesh-hammer-pak-in-dhaka-test</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607742/bangladesh-hammer-pak-in-dhaka-test#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:45:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607742</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rana's five-wicket haul seals the hosts' third straight Test victory]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Bangladesh produced a ruthless all-round performance to defeat Pakistan by 104 runs in the first Test in Dhaka on Tuesday, extending their recent dominance over the visitors with a third consecutive victory.

Fast bowler Nahid Rana led the charge with a devastating spell of pace bowling, claiming 5-40 as Pakistan were dismissed on the fifth day while chasing a target of 275. Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam took two wickets each, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz chipped in with one wicket after his five-wicket haul in the first innings.

The victory follows Bangladesh&#39;s historic 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan in 2024 and underlines the hosts&#39; growing confidence in the longest format.

Pakistan began the final day hoping to chase down the remaining runs on a deteriorating surface, but Bangladesh&#39;s bowlers kept relentless pressure from the outset.

Debutant Abdullah Fazal fought bravely with 66 off 113 balls, striking 11 fours in an assured innings, but lacked support from the rest of the batting order. His effort made him only the sixth Pakistan batter to score fifties in both innings of a debut Test.

Bangladesh struck an early blow when Imam-ul-Haq departed before lunch, increasing the pressure on Pakistan&#39;s fragile middle order.

Fazal responded positively after the interval, attacking Mehidy Hasan with consecutive boundaries before taking on Rana with three fours in a row. The left-hander survived a nervous phase in which edges flew through the slip cordon, but he continued to play aggressively, driving fluently down the ground and cutting anything short.

Pakistan briefly appeared capable of mounting a fightback before Mehidy Hasan removed opener Azan Awais for 15. The delivery held its line and crashed into the stumps after beating the batter&#39;s defence.

The wicket triggered another collapse.

Rana soon trapped Pakistan captain Shan Masood, leaving the visitors struggling at 68-3 and firmly on the back foot.

Fazal reached his half-century with an upper-cut boundary off Ebadot Hossain, earning applause for his composure under pressure. However, Bangladesh regained complete control immediately after tea when Taijul Islam produced a sharp-turning delivery that beat Fazal&#39;s defensive prod.

The on-field umpire initially turned down the appeal, but Bangladesh reviewed successfully after television replays confirmed the dismissal.

Soon after, Taskin Ahmed removed Salman Ali Agha, caught at second slip by Shadman Islam, who injured himself while completing the catch but held on brilliantly.

Rana then ripped through the lower order, dismissing Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan during a hostile spell before returning to finish off Noman Ali and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Pakistan&#39;s innings folded quickly as Bangladesh celebrated another memorable Test victory on home soil.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh had adopted an aggressive approach with the bat in an attempt to stretch the lead and force a result. The hosts added 88 runs in 20 overs during the morning session despite losing six wickets.

Hasan Ali provided Pakistan an early breakthrough when he dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim for 22, caught at mid-off.

Shaheen Afridi then removed Litton Das, who top-edged a hook shot after scoring 11.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz played a valuable cameo, hitting two fours and a six in his quickfire 24 before Noman Ali dismissed him to claim his 100th Test wicket.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto fell lbw to Noman for 87 while attempting a reverse sweep. The left-hander narrowly missed the chance to become only the fourth batter after Sunil Gavaskar, Ricky Ponting and David Warner to score twin centuries in a Test on three separate occasions.

Despite the late wickets, Bangladesh&#39;s attacking intent ensured Pakistan faced a challenging target on a wearing pitch, and the home bowlers capitalised superbly.

The result marks another disappointing chapter for Pakistan, whose batting struggled once again under pressure, while Bangladesh continued to build momentum after their landmark success against the same opponents last year.]]>
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			<title>Rana stars as Bangladesh down Pakistan in 1st Test thriller</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607702/rana-stars-as-bangladesh-down-pakistan-in-1st-test-thriller</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607702/rana-stars-as-bangladesh-down-pakistan-in-1st-test-thriller#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 14:26:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607702</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Chasing 268 for victory in Dhaka, Pakistan were 119-3 before they fell to 163 all out in the final session]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pace bowler Nahid Rana claimed five wickets as Bangladesh trumped Pakistan by 104 runs in a rain-hit first Test on Tuesday after a thrilling fifth day of batting collapses.

Chasing 268 for victory in Dhaka, Pakistan were 119-3 before they fell to 163 all out in the final session with debutant Abdullah Fazal scoring a valiant 66.

Bangladesh now hold a 1-0 lead in the two-match home series.

The Test win was Bangladesh&#39;s first against Pakistan on home soil and their third overall.

The 23-year-old Fazal put on 51 runs with Salman Agha, who made 26, to raise Pakistan&#39;s hopes of victory before Rana rattled the opposition with career-best figures of 5-40.

Rana, 23, made an impact with his pace and reverse swing and his final spell of 4.5 overs got him four wickets for just 10 runs to turn the match on its head.

&quot;Very happy -- proud of all the guys, the way we played,&quot; Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said. &quot;We have been working hard the last few months and slowly we are getting better at Test cricket -- that&#39;s one thing we have always wanted to do.&quot;

The victory also saw Shanto equal Mushfiqur Rahim&#39;s record of seven Test wins as Bangladesh captain, achieving the milestone in just 17 matches compared to Mushfiqur&#39;s 34.

Shanto&#39;s batting brilliance

Bangladesh came into the final day with a lead of 179 runs at 152-3 but a clutch of wickets made them falter despite Shanto&#39;s 87.

Bangladesh declared their second innings on 240-9 to hand Pakistan a competitive target and a chance for their bowlers to make use of the deteriorating pitch.

Taskin Ahmed took down opener Imam-ul-Haq for two and Mehidy Hasan Miraz bowled debutant and first-innings centurion Azan Awais for 15.

Rana removed Pakistan captain Shan Masood for two before Fazal and Agha counter-attacked in their fourth-wicket partnership, but Bangladesh bowlers proved their mettle on home turf to secure victory in the final session of the day.

Rana delivered the decisive blows. He had Saud Shakeel caught behind before producing the ball of the match -- a thunderous 147 kmph (91.3 mph) in-swinging yorker that bowled Mohammad Rizwan for 15.

Rana was on a roll as he trapped Noman Ali lbw and then bounced out Shaheen Shah Afridi, with Mahmudul Hasan Joy taking a simple catch to complete a famous victory.

Pakistan captain Masood proffered no excuses for his side&#39;s failure to seize the key moments in the match.

&quot;In the first innings, with bat and ball, we needed to do better,&quot; he said. &quot;When you have the game in your hands you have to push the opposition away, but we failed to do that.&quot;

Shanto stood out for his batting brilliance as he made 101 in the first innings to guide Bangladesh to 413.

Pakistan responded with 386 in their first innings but conceded a slender lead after off-spinner Mehidy returned figures of 5-102.

Rain played spoilsport on the third and fourth days of the Test with a few overs lost due to interruptions.

The second match will begin on Saturday in Sylhet.]]>
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			<title>Fitzpatricks seek major glory at PGA</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607743/fitzpatricks-seek-major-glory-at-pga</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607743/fitzpatricks-seek-major-glory-at-pga#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:45:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607743</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sibling duo mix rivalry and family as they chase title]]>
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				<![CDATA[Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick, English brothers and two of the world&#39;s hottest golfers, are housemates this week as they chase a major title at the 108th PGA Championship at Aronimink.

In the suburbs of Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, two siblings from Sheffield must navigate the perils of a difficult course, world-class rivals and living with each other.

&quot;We are different,&quot; elder brother Matt said. &quot;He&#39;s messy, I would say. We shared a bathroom last week, actually, in the house that we shared, and it was a little bit messier than my side of the bathroom, I&#39;ll say. &quot;I&#39;m very strict on my routine. I want to do this and I need to see whoever at this time. If he wants to fit that in, that&#39;s great, and obviously we want to play together. But yeah, I want him to be able to do his own thing.&quot;

Fourth-ranked Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 US Open champion, was second at March&#39;s Players Championship and since then won the Valspar and Heritage titles and shared a victory at the PGA Tour pairs event in New Orleans with 27-year-old Alex.

Alex Fitzpatrick, who won his first DP World Tour title at the Indian Open in March, accepted a US PGA Tour berth and followed with a share of ninth at Doral and a fourth-place effort last week at Quail Hollow.

Alex will make only his second major start this week after sharing 17th at the 2023 British Open, when he also shared a house with Matt for the week.

&quot;It&#39;s the same as ever,&quot; said Matt Fitzpatrick. &quot;He&#39;ll ask me when I&#39;m playing and he&#39;ll either join me or he&#39;ll kind of fit in elsewhere.&quot;

Matt Fitzpatrick, 31, has enjoyed seeing his brother&#39;s success.

&quot;Impressed more than anything. Super proud of him for how he has been playing,&quot; Matt said.

The elder brother said he has not yet pondered how it might feel to be battling his sibling for a major title on Sunday. AFP]]>
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			<title>Napoli beaten by Bologna</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607748/napoli-beaten-by-bologna</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607748/napoli-beaten-by-bologna#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:45:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607748</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rowe's added-time goal gave Bologna 3-2 win]]>
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				<![CDATA[Napoli came from two goals down but were stunned by an added-time strike from Jonathan Rowe to lose 3-2 at home to Bologna, a setback that leaves the hosts&#39; top-four hopes in the balance as they missed a chance to secure a Champions League ?place.

Napoli came into the game knowing that a win would seal a top-four place while Bologna had nothing left to play for but pride, and that ultimately proved enough for the visitors to complete the double over last season&#39;s champions.

Title winners Inter Milan have 85 points, with Napoli second on 70, and are one of five sides battling for the three remaining places in Europe&#39;s premier club competition.

Juventus are third on 68, one point ahead of AC Milan and AS Roma, with Como a further two points back. Bologna are eighth with 52 points.

Federico Bernardeschi put Bologna ahead in the ninth minute and Riccardo Orsolini&#39;s penalty doubled the lead in the 34th before Giovanni Di Lorenzo pulled one back in added time before the break.

Alisson Santos levelled early in the second half and Bologna substitute Rowe silenced the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona with an acrobatic late winner.

Bologna had failed to score in their last three games, picking up just a single point which had put paid to their hopes of European competition next season, but were off the mark early in ?Naples. Bernardeschi charged forward with the ball into the box, played a one-two with Juan Miranda and drove an unstoppable shot into the far corner.

Miranda struck the upright with an effort on the turn minutes later, while at the other end Massimo Pessina denied both Giovane and Santos.

Scott McTominay headed just wide from a corner leaving a frustrated Napoli coach Antonio Conte with his head in his hands, and things got worse for the hosts when Di Lorenzo&#39;s foul on Miranda resulted in a penalty.

Vanja Milinkovic-Savic got a hand to Orsolini&#39;s spot kick, but not enough to keep the ball out and Napoli looked in real trouble.

Captain Di Lorenzo made up somewhat for conceding the penalty by blasting home from the edge of the six-yard box.

Napoli drew level three minutes into the second half, Rasmus Hojlund laying the ball off for Santos to sweep a first time shot into the bottom corner. REUTERS]]>
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			<title>Pakistan will do to Kabul what it did to Delhi: Khawaja Asif</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607877/pakistan-will-do-to-kabul-what-it-did-to-delhi-khawaja-asif</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607877/pakistan-will-do-to-kabul-what-it-did-to-delhi-khawaja-asif#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 09:29:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Waqas Chaudhry]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607877</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Defence minister warns Afghanistan of ‘open war’ if Kabul fails to act against terrorists]]>
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				<![CDATA[Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday warned Afghanistan that if Kabul failed to stop harbouring terrorists, Pakistan would respond in the same way it had against India last year.

Addressing the National Assembly, Asif said: &ldquo;If they are not ready, then what we did with Delhi, we will do the same with Kabul.&rdquo; The minister asserted that Afghanistan had effectively become an instrument of Indian policy.

&ldquo;At this time, Afghanistan has become India&rsquo;s proxy,&rdquo; he said, adding: &ldquo;Kabul is fighting a Hindutva war against us,&rdquo; and that &ldquo;there is no difference between Delhi and Kabul at this time,&rdquo; although Pakistan sincerely wished otherwise.

Asif said Pakistan had repeatedly attempted to engage Afghanistan through diplomatic channels, including via Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, but those efforts had failed to yield results. &ldquo;In negotiations in Qatar, Afghanistan agreed to everything but later refused to give guarantees,&rdquo; he said, adding that Kabul was willing to agree verbally but not in writing.

Also Read: Khawaja Asif warns of stronger response to any future aggression

He said Pakistan&rsquo;s primary demand was a written commitment from Kabul ensuring that Afghan territory would not be used to launch attacks against Pakistan and that terrorists operating there would be expelled.

&ldquo;The Kabul government is not willing to guarantee that its territory will not be used for attacks against Pakistan,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Afghanistan is not willing to expel terrorists from its territory. Afghanistan is not willing to stop terrorists either.&rdquo;

The minister added that Pakistan remained open to talks if Kabul provided written assurances against terrorism.

Referring to a recent attack in Bannu, Asif said many people had been martyred and that the Pakistan Army continued to make sacrifices. &ldquo;We are being forced into war because of this situation,&rdquo; he said, adding that following India&rsquo;s defeat last year, New Delhi was now acting through Afghanistan.

On the diplomatic front, Asif said backchannel efforts through a third country were still ongoing, though he declined to provide further details. &ldquo;Talks are still ongoing through a third country, but I cannot say much at this stage,&rdquo; he said.

Pakistan remains embroiled in ongoing clashes with Afghanistan since February 2026. Operation Ghazab Lil Haq was launched following clashes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, after Afghan Taliban forces fired on multiple locations, prompting swift military action by Pakistan.

The neighbouring countries have been engaged in escalating hostilities along the frontier since then. The clashes intensified after Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes targeting terrorist positions.

A temporary pause in the operation was assumed in deference to Eidul Fitr and requests from Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye. The pause, effective from midnight on March 18-19, 2026, ran until March 23-24, 2026.

However, the operation then resumed in March and since then, the Pakistan Army has continued to respond to unprovoked aggression by the Taliban and Fitna al-Khawarij; a term used for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Read More: Khawaja Asif lauds armed forces, warns against future aggression

The defence minister also struck a cautiously optimistic note regarding domestic political alignment, saying the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government, which had previously been uncooperative, was now on board.

&ldquo;Earlier, we did not have the cooperation of the K-P government; now we do,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;It is good that we are all on the same page that terrorism must end.&rdquo; However, he warned that if Afghanistan remained unwilling to act, the situation could escalate further. &ldquo;Then it will be a war &mdash; an open war,&rdquo; he said.

Responding to a query from Asad Qaiser regarding military courts, Asif said the government would soon introduce legislation on the matter. He added that the right to appeal already existed and that several accused individuals had challenged military court verdicts. &ldquo;Many have challenged the jurisdiction of military courts,&rdquo; he said.

Regarding the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas, the minister acknowledged that the promised resources had yet to be provided. &ldquo;The share due to former FATA is not only the responsibility of the federation; provinces must also contribute,&rdquo; he said. As soon as the provinces agree, he added, the region would receive its due rights.]]>
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			<title>Balochistan's uplift top priority: PM</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607826/balochistans-uplift-top-priority-pm-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607826/balochistans-uplift-top-priority-pm-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:06:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607826</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Directs authorities to introduce a modern SWM across country]]>
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				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reiterated that the development, prosperity and welfare of the people of Balochistan remained the federal government&#39;s top priority.

He expressed these views during a meeting with a delegation of senior politicians and members of the Senate from Balochistan at the Prime Minister&#39;s Office, a statement said.

During the meeting, the premier observed that Balochistan was rich in natural resources and emphasized that the government was making every possible effort to ensure that the people of the province fully benefited from those resources.

He said the Centre, in collaboration with the provincial government, was actively working for the progress and uplift of Balochistan and undertaking measures aimed at improving the living standards of its people.

The delegation included Senator Mir Dostain Khan Domki, Balochistan Provincial Minister for Public Health Engineering Sardar Abdul Rehman Khetran, Member of the Balochistan Assembly Sardar Changez Marri, and Mir Khuda Bakhsh Marri.

The participants also discussed matters relating to the overall development of the province and the welfare of the people of Balochistan.

SWM

The prime minister directed the relevant authorities to introduce a modern and sustainable solid waste management (SWM) system across the country in coordination with provincial governments. He chaired a meeting on solid waste management here, a PM&#39;s Office statement said.

During the meeting, the prime minister decided to formulate a comprehensive roadmap for generating electricity from solid waste as part of the government&#39;s broader strategy to promote renewable and environmentally friendly energy sources.

He also directed the formation of a task force to prepare a detailed action plan for converting solid waste into energy. The prime minister added that the task force will develop recommendations in light of modern technology and international best practices.

He instructed officials to ensure the inclusion of private sector representatives and internationally renowned experts in the proposed task force to make the initiative more effective and result-oriented. He said that generating energy from solid waste would help reduce dependence on imported fuel and save valuable foreign exchange reserves.

Doctor-to-nurse ratio

The PM said the government was determined to improve the doctor-to-nurse ratio in the country to strengthen the healthcare sector and ensure effective delivery of medical services to the public.

In his message on International Nurses Day, the prime minister said the strength of the health sector largely depended on the balanced presence of doctors and nurses.]]>
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			<title>Jail rejects daughter's plea to meet Bushra</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607820/jail-rejects-daughters-plea-to-meet-bushra-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607820/jail-rejects-daughters-plea-to-meet-bushra-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:06:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Fiaz Mahmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607820</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Adiala tells IHC family uses meetings for politics]]>
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				<![CDATA[The superintendent of Adiala Jail has opposed a request seeking meetings between former prime minister Imran Khan&#39;s wife, Bushra Bibi, and her family members as well as access to a personal physician, arguing that such interactions were being used for political messaging outside the prison.

In a written report submitted to the Islamabad High Court (IHC), the jail superintendent stated that family meetings were followed by public political statements and social media activity, which, according to the administration, affected prison discipline and security.

The matter came before Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir during the hearing of a petition filed by Bushra Bibi&#39;s daughter, Mubashra Maneka. The petition sought permission for regular family meetings, access to a private doctor and provision of essential items.

Islamabad Advocate General Naveed Malik and Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig appeared before the court during the proceedings.

The report submitted by the jail authorities specifically referred to social media posts attributed to Bushra Bibi&#39;s sister, Maryam Riaz Wattoo, claiming that tweets were shared after family meetings with the former first lady.

The administration argued that such conduct raised concerns regarding prison management and security arrangements.

Advocate General Malik informed the court that the superintendent had already decided the representation regarding prison meetings and had declined to allow immediate access. However, he clarified that the restriction was not permanent and could be reviewed later.

Counsel for the petitioner, Salman Akram Raja, challenged the grounds cited by the jail authorities and argued that the denial was based on alleged political discussions taking place outside the prison.

He contended that Maryam Riaz Wattoo had never visited Adiala Jail and currently resided abroad, questioning how her social media activity could be used as justification to stop a daughter from meeting her mother.

At this point, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir directed the advocate general to obtain an affidavit from the relevant individual regarding the matter.

The advocate general reiterated that the prison administration had not imposed a blanket ban and was acting in line with prison management requirements.

During the hearing, Superintendent Sajid Baig informed the court that Adiala Jail currently housed around 7,200 inmates and that meeting schedules were arranged separately according to the nature of prisoners&#39; offences.

He said meetings were conducted six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, under the jail manual and the Prison Management Information System.

Justice Tahir observed that the system appeared organised and said the court wanted to fully understand the procedure before passing any order.

He stressed that the jail administration must strictly follow the jail manual and ensure fairness to all parties.

The court said it would hear the matter in detail before issuing a final ruling and directed authorities to facilitate a meeting between Bushra Bibi and her daughter whenever possible in the meantime.

The hearing was adjourned until May 14, with directions for all parties to present detailed arguments in light of the applicable prison rules.]]>
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			<title>Imran Khan 'loses vision' in one eye due to jail torture, alleges Salman Akram Raja</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607885/imran-khan-loses-vision-in-one-eye-due-to-jail-torture-alleges-salman-akram-raja</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607885/imran-khan-loses-vision-in-one-eye-due-to-jail-torture-alleges-salman-akram-raja#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 11:02:16 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[JAHANZAIB ABBASI]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607885</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says the party has exhausted all legal avenues and that taking to the streets is the only option left]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja on Wednesday said that jailed former prime minister Imran Khan was facing serious health risks in custody,&nbsp;claiming that, due to alleged torture in jail, he has &quot;lost vision&quot; in one of his eyes.

In February, it was revealed by a report prepared by Barrister Salman Safdar on the Supreme Court&rsquo;s direction that Imran had informed officials that his right eye was functioning at only 15% capacity. Safdar submitted the report to a two-member bench. As a result, the SC ordered that Imran be granted access to his personal physicians in Adiala Jail. Later, a medical board examining Imran reported an improvement in his eyesight and did not recommend shifting him to a hospital.

Speaking to reporters outside the SC today, Raja stated that Imran had been in jail for nearly 1,000 days and that all judicial avenues appeared to be closed for the party. He further added that the party had exhausted all legal options, and now, taking to the streets was the only option left.

He said cases against Imran and Bushra Bibi, including the Toshakhana case, were fabricated and based on statements from government witnesses.

Raja said every prisoner was entitled to constitutional rights, but meetings with Imran and the signing of legal documents were being restricted despite court orders permitting such meetings.



عمران خان صاحب سے ملاقاتوں کے حوالے سے اکتوبر ۲۰۲۵ سے سپریم کورٹ میں اپیل دائر ہے۔ ایک بار بھی سنوائی نہیں ہوئی۔ pic.twitter.com/IqJ7AQoFoX
&mdash; salman akram raja (@salmanAraja) May 13, 2026


He said Imran and Bushra Bibi were facing serious &quot;health risks in custody&quot; and added that Imran&rsquo;s sisters were also being denied meetings with him despite the seriousness of his condition.

PTI secretary general further said that petitions filed before the SC were not being heard, and added that restrictions currently imposed on prisoners were unprecedented.

Raja said Pakistan required political and economic stability, describing Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) as &ldquo;bathed in blood&rdquo; and stating that every province had been pushed into crisis.

Senior lawyer Hamid Khan said petitions were being filed in the SC seeking meetings and prison facilities for Imran and Bushra Bibi, adding that an appeal had remained pending for a year before being dismissed by the Islamabad High Court (IHC) and questioned how legal documents could be signed if lawyers were denied access to their clients.

Read: Jail rejects daughter&#39;s plea to meet Bushra

In late January, Imran was first taken to the hospital for a minor eye procedure. Five days later, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said that doctors at PIMS had conducted an examination of his eyes and, after obtaining his written consent, carried out a minor medical procedure that lasted around 20 minutes.

Amid controversy surrounding the eye treatment, PIMS confirmed that Imran was administered an anti-VEGF intra-vitreal injection to treat right central retinal vein occlusion.

In March, another medical check-up was conducted at Adiala, after which PIMS stated that Imran had shown significant improvement in his vision following his second dose of an intravitreal anti-VEGF injection. The third dose was subsequently administered on March 23.

Imran&#39;s wife, Bushra Bibi, also underwent a medical examination at Adiala in March after complaining of pain in her right eye. She was reportedly examined by Dr Muhammad Arif Khan, head of the ophthalmology department at PIMS. The medical report stated that she had been experiencing blurred vision and black spots in her right eye; she also reported seeing flashes in the dark and said she was suffering from headaches.

The examination diagnosed Bushra Bibi with posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) in her right eye. The report also identified myopia and astigmatism. After the diagnosis, Bushra Bibi was prescribed eye drops and medication, along with the use of glasses. She was reportedly recommended a follow-up medical check-up after four weeks.

The former first lady then underwent eye surgery on the evening of April 16.

Imran and Bushra Bibi remain incarcerated in Rawalpindi&#39;s Adiala Jail. They were sentenced on December 20, 2025, to 17 years in prison in the Toshakhana-II case, which pertains to allegations that the couple unlawfully retained a Bulgari jewellery set gifted by the Saudi crown prince during an official visit to Saudi Arabia.

Imran has been in custody since August 2023, serving a sentence in a &pound;190 million corruption case. He also faces pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act in connection with protests on May 9, 2023.]]>
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			<title>PAF shattered Indian arrogance, demonstrated dominance by downing Rafale: Tarar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607882/paf-shattered-indian-arrogance-demonstrated-dominance-by-downing-rafale-tarar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607882/paf-shattered-indian-arrogance-demonstrated-dominance-by-downing-rafale-tarar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 10:21:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khalid Mahmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607882</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says Pakistan achieved success on narrative, military, diplomatic fronts during Marka-e-Haq]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Wednesday that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) demonstrated its dominance during aerial engagements, stating that the Rafale aircraft brought down during the conflict shattered Indian arrogance and highlighted Pakistan&rsquo;s indigenous technological capabilities.

Speaking at the Institute of Strategic Studies in Islamabad on the occasion of Marka-e-Haq, Tarar said India had imposed aggression on Pakistan, targeting civilian populations, while Pakistan had restricted its response to military objectives.

&quot;Pakistan believes in peace,&quot; he said, adding that the country was a responsible state and a frontline nation in the fight against terrorism.

He said that Pakistan had achieved success on the narrative, military, and diplomatic fronts during Marka-e-Haq, crediting the unity of the nation, its institutions, and the leadership of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for the country&#39;s response to Indian aggression.

On the Pahalgam incident, Tarar said no investigation was conducted, but Pakistan was blamed. &quot;An FIR was registered within 10 minutes,&quot; he said, adding that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had offered a transparent investigation into the incident during his address to cadets at the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul. &quot;A year has passed and India has given no response,&quot; he said. &quot;India is running away from the investigation of the Pahalgam incident.&quot;



India is Promoting Terrorism While Pakistan Combats it: Attaullah Tarar#AttaullahTarar #Pahalgam #CrossBorderTerrorism #Pakistan @TararAttaullah pic.twitter.com/vF0tE7DVmd
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) May 13, 2026



The minister said India had a habit of turning internal issues into external ones and external issues into internal ones, saying that the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was an international issue with United Nations resolutions behind it, while terrorism was India&#39;s internal issue, not an external one.

Tarar pointed to the arrest of Kulbhushan Yadav in Pakistan as evidence of India&#39;s involvement in terrorism, adding&nbsp;that a country accusing Pakistan was itself found involved in the killing of Sikhs in Canada and other countries.

&quot;Pakistan is fighting terrorism while India is promoting terrorism,&quot; he said.

Read: &#39;No one can harm Pakistan; we are ready to respond to any aggression&#39;: DG ISPR on Marka-e-Haq anniversary

The minister further said that Pakistan had successfully conveyed the truth to the world, with local residents and journalists taken on a visit to the Bela Noor Shah area regarding the Pahalgam incident. He contrasted this with what he described as misinformation from the Indian side, noting that Indian media had made false claims about targeting ports in Lahore and Multan &mdash; both landlocked cities.&nbsp;

Tarar praised the role of Pakistani media during the conflict, saying it had acted responsibly, while the nation&#39;s youth had used social media as a weapon on the narrative front. He added that Pakistan&#39;s civilian and military leadership had been on the same page throughout, with coordination and harmony at every level.

The minister also highlighted Pakistan&#39;s sacrifices in the broader war against terrorism, saying the country had suffered billions of dollars in losses. &quot;If a Pakistani sacrifices his life in the fight against terrorism, it is not only for Pakistan but for the entire world,&quot; he said, adding that Pakistan&#39;s sacrifices for the elimination of terrorism were unparalleled.



Pakistan Presented the Truth on the Right Forum at the Right Time: Attaullah Tarar#AttaullahTarar #Pahalgam #CrossBorderTerrorism @TararAttaullah pic.twitter.com/RMNAvZfMOH
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) May 13, 2026



He paid tribute to the leadership of Field Marshal Munir in navigating the challenges Pakistan faced during Marka-e-Haq.

Last year, on April 22, the escalation between Pakistan and India escalated when an attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident. However, Pakistan categorically rejected the blame.

Read More: Civil, military leadership assert full-spectrum response to any aggression on Marka-e-Haq&#39;s 1st anniversary

India then undertook a series of hostile actions the next day, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), cancelling visas for Pakistani citizens, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordering the shutdown of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, and reducing diplomatic staff at each other&#39;s embassies.

Tensions heightened further in the early hours of May 7 when missile strikes hit six cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), destroying a mosque and killing dozens of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly.

In a swift military response, Pakistan&rsquo;s armed forces shot down Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets. The confrontation intensified again in the early hours of May 10 when India targeted several Pakistani airbases with missile strikes. In retaliation, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, damaging Indian military installations, including missile storage sites, airbases, and other strategic targets.

On the same day, United States President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire had been reached between India and Pakistan following intense overnight diplomatic efforts. Minutes later, the agreement was confirmed separately by Pakistan&rsquo;s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the Indian foreign secretary.]]>
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			<title>NA toughens law against child abuse</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607840/na-toughens-law-against-child-abuse</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607840/na-toughens-law-against-child-abuse#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:48:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Waqas Ahmed]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607840</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Before granting bail, courts must assess potential risks to the victim, including threats or harm from the accused]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The National Assembly on Tuesday gave the nod to the Anti-Rape (Amendment) Bill 2026, which declares sexual assault, physical abuse and child exploitation non-bailable offences.

Under the provisions of the anti-rape amendment, law enforcement agencies must ensure child victims undergo medical examination by a certified forensic expert within 24 hours.

The law also mandates strict safeguards to protect victims&#39; dignity, privacy and security during the process. Forensic evidence collected during examinations will form part of the investigation.

The amendment further stipulates that courts shall not grant bail in such cases except under extraordinary circumstances, where the child&#39;s best interest must be carefully considered.

Before granting bail, courts must assess potential risks to the victim, including threats or harm from the accused.

A bill seeking to significantly enhance penalties for the sale, display and distribution of obscene material was also introduced in the NA, marking a major legislative push to tighten existing laws under the Pakistan Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure.

The proposed legislation, already passed by the Senate, aims to amend Sections 292, 293, and 294, along with Schedule II, to impose stricter punishments for offences involving obscene books, drawings, paintings, images, sculptures, and other materials.

Lawmakers said the move is intended to curb the growing circulation and public display of such content.

Under the proposed amendments, the punishment for exhibiting or selling obscene material would increase from the existing three months to up to two years imprisonment.

In addition to jail time, offenders could face fines of up to Rs200,000. The bill also proposes a two-year prison term for individuals involved in the import, export or transportation of obscene items for commercial purposes.

The legislation further expands the scope of penalties by criminalising advertisements related to the procurement of obscene material. Those found guilty of advertising such content could face up to two years in prison along with a fine of Rs200,000. Special emphasis has been placed on protecting minors.

The bill proposes that selling, renting, distributing or showing obscene material to individuals under the age of 20 would carry a punishment of up to two years&#39; imprisonment and a fine of Rs100,000.

Lawmakers described this provision as a necessary safeguard against exposing young people to inappropriate content.

In addition, the bill introduces penalties for public behaviour deemed obscene. Engaging in obscene acts, singing obscene songs, or using explicit language in public places could result in up to six months&#39; imprisonment and a fine of Rs100,000.

Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar informed the assembly about ongoing efforts to address the issue of out-of-school children, estimated at around 26 million nationwide.

She highlighted initiatives such as the &quot;No Child Left Behind&quot; campaign, which includes door-to-door surveys, accelerated learning programmes and technical education pathways aimed at improving enrollment and retention.

She said the government is also working with institutions such as the National Commission for Human Development to expand access to education, including in underserved and remote areas.

Qamar informed the house that the government was encouraging seminaries across the country, including in Balochistan, to register with the Directorate General of Religious Education (DGRE) to facilitate them through modern educational and technical support programmes.

Responding to a calling attention notice moved by MNA Naeema Kishwer Khan regarding issues faced by madrassas in Balochistan, the minister said the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training had established the DGRE to assist registered seminaries.

This assistance includes providing teachers on stipend, technical education opportunities, and access to contemporary education alongside religious instruction, she said.]]>
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			<title>Population may hit 390m by 2050</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607787/population-may-hit-390m-by-2050</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607787/population-may-hit-390m-by-2050#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 20:51:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahbaz Rana]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607787</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Around 256 million, more than current inhabitants, will be seeking jobs]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In the next 25 years, Pakistan&#39;s population may explode to 390 million, marking an increase of 62%, of which 256 million people will be in the market looking for jobs that is more than the existing total population, reveals an official report launched on Tuesday.

Even in the case of using contraceptive methods to control population, the inhabitants are projected to increase to over 383 million, or 59%, in 2050, according to the Population Projections report 2023-50, launched by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. The report was prepared in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The report depicts the population trend under three different scenarios &ndash; the number of children, working-age people and elderly persons. The report has used the 2023 population census as the base when the population stood at 241.9 million.

Pakistan&#39;s total population under the &quot;slow fertility decline scenario&quot; is projected to reach 390 million by 2050, an increase of approximately 148 million people, according to the report. This shows a 62% rise over 27 years.

It added that the rapid growth reflects the underlying demographic momentum, driven by fertility patterns and population dynamics across provinces. By adding the internal net migration, the population of each province is projected to grow significantly, with varying levels of increase in both absolute numbers and in percentage terms.

Under the second &quot;rapid fertility decline scenario&quot;, where it is assumed to decrease sharply by subtracting the birth rate by half from the 2050 target, the population is projected to reach 371.9 million by 2050. This represents an increase of 129.3 million, or 54%, over the base year.

The trend reflects a significant slowdown in the pace of growth compared to the projected population under the slow fertility decline scenario, with a relatively balanced increase in both male and female numbers, stated the report.

In the third scenario based on evidence-based contraceptive use across provinces and the ICT, Pakistan&#39;s population will swell from 241.9 million in 2023 to 383.2 million by 2050.

The report says the number of children aged below 18 years is projected to rise from 118 million to 139.7 million by 2050, up 18%. However, the working-age population (15-64 years) is expected to increase markedly from 135.2 million to 255.4 million, higher by 89%.

Although the report did not comment on the economic growth rate needed to create jobs for the majority of these 255 million people, Pakistan&#39;s current growth model and trend are not sufficient to absorb the workforce.

The country needs a sustainable economic growth of 6-8% to create jobs for people already in the market but the economy is growing at an average annual pace of around 3.5%. The government is also implementing fiscal and monetary consolidation policies under the IMF programme that do not allow growth above 5%.

The report noted that faster expansion of the working-age population relative to dependents indicates a favourable age-structural shift, creating potential for demographic dividend, contingent on adequate investments in education, health care and employment.

According to the report, the youth population aged 15-29 years is projected to increase from 63 million in the base year to 100 million by 2050, reflecting a substantial expansion of the young labour force. The elderly population (65+) will rise from 8.6 million to 22.6 million, signaling the need for investments in elderly care and social protection.

The planning minister said that successful completion of the 2024-50 population projections marks a significant milestone in Pakistan&#39;s demographic planning landscape. &quot;This achievement is the result of a deeply collaborative and consultative effort, involving experts, institutions and partners committed to data-driven policymaking,&quot; he added.

The report stated that against the current 67% of population below the age of 30, by 2050 the absolute number is projected to increase to 212 million. But their relative share is expected to decline to 54% of the total population. This shift reflects a gradual ageing of population, driven by declining fertility and improving survival, and indicates transition from a predominantly youthful population towards a more mature age profile.

Addressing the launching ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal said that uncontrolled population growth has become a major challenge to sustainable development, economic progress and effective utilisation of resources.

He stressed that 82% of resource distribution under the NFC Award is linked to the population share; therefore, reforms are needed to encourage provinces to adopt responsible population management policies. He said that currently there is no effective incentive for provinces to reduce population growth, adding that provinces demonstrating improvement in population management should be rewarded with additional incentives.

Provincial breakdown

Punjab, already the most populous province, is expected to grow from 128 million in 2023 to 200 million in 2050, a 56% increase in slow decline mode. Sindh&#39;s population is expected to increase from 56 million to 91.2 million, showing a 64% increase. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa population is expected to increase from 41 million to 68 million, a surge of 66%. Balochistan&#39;s population, from a relatively smaller base, is expected to increase from 14.7 million to 25 million, showing the highest percentage increase of 68%.

Notably, the ICT population is projected to grow at the fastest rate, with its residents almost tripling from 2.3 million in 2023 to 6.5 million by 2050. These projections highlight the urgent need for comprehensive planning to ensure adequate infrastructure, services and resources across both urban and rural areas in response to Pakistan&#39;s evolving demographic landscape, according to the report.]]>
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			<title>President approves Sitara-e-Shujaat for civilian martyred while foiling suicide attack in Attock</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607869/president-approves-sitara-e-shujaat-for-civilian-martyred-while-foiling-suicide-attack-in-attock</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607869/president-approves-sitara-e-shujaat-for-civilian-martyred-while-foiling-suicide-attack-in-attock#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:52:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607869</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Liaquat sacrificed his life while preventing a suicide attacker from reaching a sensitive location]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday approved the conferment of the civil award &ldquo;Sitara-e-Shujaat&rdquo; upon Liaquat Shaheed, who sacrificed his life while foiling a suicide attack in the border area between Kohat and Attock earlier this week.

According to a statement from the President&#39;s Office, the approval was granted on the recommendation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

A day earlier, both the president and the prime minister paid tribute to Liaquat Shaheed for his exemplary valour, remembering him as a shining example of national resilience, patriotism, and collective awareness in the fight against terrorism.

The president directed Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to locate the family of Shaheed Liaquat and convey the message of full national solidarity.



پاکستان ریلوے وزیرِاعظم پاکستان محمد شہباز شریف اور صدرِ مملکت آصف علی زرداری کی جانب سے شہید گینگ میٹ لیاقت علی کے لیے &ldquo;ستارۂ شجاعت&rdquo; کی بعد از شہادت منظوری پر دل کی گہرائیوں سے شکر گزار اور ممنون ہے

وزیر ریلوے نے صدرِ مملکت اور وزیرِاعظم پاکستان کا تہہ دل سے شکریہ ادا کرتے ہوئے&hellip; pic.twitter.com/88O7ce25OK
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) May 13, 2026


The prime minister said that the eternal sacrifice of Shaheed Liaquat would always be remembered, as he set a noble example of extraordinary courage, a sense of duty, and patriotism.

&ldquo;Such brave citizens are the true symbol of national resolve against terrorism. Shaheed Liaquat&rsquo;s sacrifice is a guiding light for every individual in the nation,&rdquo; he added.

Read: Civilian sacrifices life stopping suicide bomber

On Monday, Liaquat lost his life while preventing a suicide attacker from reaching a sensitive location near the inter-provincial border between Kohat and Attock.

The incident occurred near Jand and Khushal Garh Bridge, where Liaquat, a resident of Village Mankoor in Tehsil Jand, District Attock, intercepted a suspicious individual moving towards a checkpoint through agricultural fields.

Authorities said the suspect, believed to be a suicide bomber, detonated the explosives he was carrying after being confronted by Liaquat.

Both Liaquat and the attacker were killed in the blast. Officials said Liaquat&rsquo;s timely intervention prevented the attacker from reaching the target and averted a potentially devastating attack on security personnel and civilians in the area.]]>
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			<title>FO rejects claims of sheltering Iranian aircraft</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607837/fo-rejects-claims-of-sheltering-iranian-aircraft</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607837/fo-rejects-claims-of-sheltering-iranian-aircraft#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:48:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Kamran Yousaf]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607837</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says presence of planes in Pakistan linked to ongoing peace efforts]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan on Tuesday strongly rejected a report by US broadcaster CBS News claiming that Iranian military aircraft were parked at the strategically important Nur Khan Airbase to shield them from potential American strikes, terming the story &quot;misleading and sensationalised&quot;.

In a detailed statement, the Foreign Office said the presence of Iranian aircraft in Pakistan was linked to diplomatic engagements and the ongoing peace efforts between Tehran and Washington following the ceasefire announced earlier this year.

&quot;Pakistan categorically rejects the CBS News report regarding the presence of Iranian aircraft at Nur Khan Airbase as misleading and sensationalised,&quot; the Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The statement said that after the ceasefire and during the initial round of the &quot;Islamabad Talks,&quot; aircraft from both Iran and the United States arrived in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of diplomatic personnel, security teams and administrative staff involved in the negotiations process.

According to the Foreign Office, some aircraft and support personnel remained temporarily in Pakistan in anticipation of further rounds of engagement, even though formal negotiations have yet to resume.

The clarification came a day after CBS News, citing unnamed US officials, reported that Pakistan had quietly allowed Iranian military aircraft to park at Pakistani airbases despite publicly portraying itself as a diplomatic intermediary between Tehran and Washington.

The CBS report claimed that multiple Iranian aircraft, including an Iranian Air Force RC-130 reconnaissance aircraft, were moved to Nur Khan Airbase near Rawalpindi shortly after President Trump announced a ceasefire in early April.

The report further alleged that the move was intended to protect Iranian aviation assets from possible US airstrikes during heightened tensions in the Middle East.

Rejecting those assertions, the Foreign Office maintained that the aircraft currently parked in Pakistan &quot;bear no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement,&quot; adding: &quot;Assertions suggesting otherwise are speculative, misleading, and entirely detached from the factual context.&quot;

Islamabad also stressed that Pakistan has acted as an &quot;impartial, constructive and responsible facilitator&quot; in efforts aimed at reducing tensions between Iran and the United States.

The Foreign Office disclosed that despite the pause in formal negotiations, senior-level diplomatic contacts had continued and the recent visits of the Iranian foreign minister to Islamabad were facilitated through existing logistical arrangements tied to the talks process.

Pakistan has played an increasingly visible mediatory role in backchannel diplomacy between Tehran and Washington since the outbreak of the recent US-Iran crisis. Last month, Islamabad hosted unprecedented high-level talks involving senior US and Iranian officials aimed at preserving a fragile ceasefire and preventing further escalation in the region.

The CBS report, according to observers, appears to be aimed at undermining the diplomatic efforts and Pakistan&#39;s constructive role to bring an end to the war through mediation.

However, Pakistani officials insist the country remains committed to supporting dialogue and de-escalation efforts. &quot;Pakistan remains committed to supporting all sincere efforts aimed at promoting dialogue, reducing tensions, and advancing regional and global peace, stability, and security,&quot; the Foreign Office said.]]>
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			<title>K-P reels as terror wave resurges</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607836/k-p-reels-as-terror-wave-resurges</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607836/k-p-reels-as-terror-wave-resurges#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:48:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Nasruminallah]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607836</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Nine die in Lakki Marwat market blast
  Two cops among victims; 33 others injured 
  PM vows justice, renewed anti-t]]>
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				<![CDATA[At least nine people, including two traffic police officials, were martyred and 33 others sustained injuries in a powerful explosion that ripped through a busy market area in Lakki Marwat district on Tuesday, triggering panic and prompting a major security response.

The explosion follows a car bombing and ambush at a police post in the nearby Bannu district on Saturday that killed 15 police officers.

Lakki Marwat police and rescue officials said that the blast occurred at the congested Phatak Chowk in Naurang Bazaar along the GT Road in Sarai Naurang, where traders, commuters and shoppers were present in large numbers at the time of the incident.

According to Lakki Marwat Deputy Commissioner Hameedullah Khan, preliminary investigations suggested that explosive material had been planted in a motorcycle parked in the market area. Khan gave the casualties figures as nine martyred and 33 injured.

However, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sajjad Khan raised the death toll to 10, including eight civilians and two police officers, according to a Reuters report. The report quoted the police as saying that an improvised explosive device (IED) had been used in the blast.

The Sarai Naurang Tehsil Headquarters Hospital said in a statement that 33 injured were brought in, adding that five critically injured were sent to hospitals in Bannu and Peshawar. Deputy Commissioner Khan said that emergency measures had been enforced across local hospitals to deal with the influx of casualties.

Local police said that two on-duty police officials were regulating the traffic between Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan when the explosion took place. The intensity of the blast was such that it was heard across surrounding areas, sending frightened residents running for safety.

Several shops, rickshaws and vehicles were damaged in the explosion, while debris was scattered across the market. Rescue teams and ambulances rushed to the spot shortly after the blast and shifted the injured to nearby hospitals.

Police identified the martyred traffic police officials as Adil Jan and Rahatullah. &quot;Both the martyred officials were serving in the traffic police department and were performing routine duties when they were martyred,&quot; RPO Sajjad Khan said. He added the police were determined to apprehend the terrorists behind the blast.

Police cordoned off the area and launched investigation, while bomb disposal squad experts collected forensic evidence from the scene. The district administration deployed additional doctors, paramedical staff and ambulances to strengthen emergency medical services.

Meanwhile, funeral prayers for the two martyred police officials were offered at the Police Lines Lakki Marwat, attended by senior police and civil administration officials, government representatives, fellow officers and relatives of the deceased.

On the last weekend, terrorists rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the Fateh Khel police checkpoint, martyring 15 cops and injuring three others. Pakistan said Afghanistan-based terrorists were behind the attack and the Foreign Ministry delivered a strong demarche ?to Kabul.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief over the Sarai Naurang blast. In a statement, the prime minister reiterated that all relevant institutions and the government were working with unwavering resolve to purge the country of terrorism.

He directed the authorities concerned to complete the inquiry into the incident immediately, identify those responsible, and bring them to justice. &quot;Terrorists will not be allowed to impede the nation&#39;s journey towards peace and progress,&quot; he said.

Meanwhile, chairing an important meeting to review the country&#39;s law and order situation and matters related to the Ministry of Interior, Prime Minister Shehbaz directed that all available resources be utilised to enhance the capacity of law enforcement personnel to ensure protection of citizens&#39; lives and property.

He also directed strict implementation of the government&#39;s zero-tolerance policy against corruption within law enforcement institutions. He directed that recruitment to all departments under the Interior Ministry, including the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), must be made strictly on merit.

Emphasising the need for tackling modern security challenges, Shehbaz said security personnel should be equipped with advanced training and modern skills and asked authorities to ensure the provision of best equipment, modern technology and professional resources to law enforcement agencies.

At the meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed the participants on the performance and future development plans of the FIA, Islamabad Police, National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), Federal Constabulary, Capital Development Authority (CDA), and other Interior Ministry institutions.

(WITH INPUTS FROM AGENCIES)]]>
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			<title>K-P police identify 100 vulnerable check posts</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607816/k-p-police-identify-100-vulnerable-check-posts-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607816/k-p-police-identify-100-vulnerable-check-posts-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:06:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ahtesham Khan  ]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607816</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[In regions such as the Tirah Valley and parts of Waziristan, multiple police posts remain vacant]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Police has identified more than 100 vulnerable and dilapidated check posts across southern districts and former tribal areas, urging the provincial government to prioritize their reconstruction and fortification in the upcoming budget.

According to official details, the identified check posts are located in sensitive districts including Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, Peshawar, and parts of the Kohat division.

These posts have been deemed highly vulnerable due to weak boundary walls, damaged roofs and overall poor infrastructure, posing serious security risks to deployed personnel.

A senior police official told The Express Tribune that the first phase of the proposed plan focuses on reconstructing these check posts, strengthening them against militant attacks, and ensuring protective arrangements for personnel during assaults involving modern technologies, including thermal imaging.

The official stressed that increasing the height and structural strength of check posts has become essential to safeguard personnel from such threats.

The situation in tribal districts remains particularly alarming. Despite the merger of approximately 30,000 personnel into the provincial police force, infrastructure development has lagged significantly.

In districts such as Mohmand, Bajaur, Khyber, Kurram, Orakzai, and Waziristan, several police stations have yet to be established years after the merger.

The official revealed that in some areas, including Mohmand, police personnel are resorting to using dry grass to cover and conceal their posts, highlighting the lack of basic infrastructure even in modern times.

In regions such as the Tirah Valley and parts of Waziristan, multiple police posts remain vacant due to the absence of proper construction.

The need for reinforced infrastructure has gained urgency following recent security incidents, including the Bannu attack, which exposed vulnerabilities in existing police installations.]]>
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			<title>Imran sisters again denied jail meeting</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607813/imran-sisters-again-denied-jail-meeting-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607813/imran-sisters-again-denied-jail-meeting-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 21:06:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607813</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aleema Khan later told reporters that being denied a meeting was contempt of court]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Sisters of former prime minister Imran Khan and the K-P Chief Minister Sohail Afridi were once again denied a meeting with the PTI founder at Adiala jail on Tuesday.

Aleema Khan later told reporters that being denied a meeting was contempt of court, as they were not allowed to meet Imran despite clear orders from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) regarding family meetings every Tuesday and Thursday.

When asked about the sit-in, she said that last time, a police officer requested them to leave and assured her he would not repeat the request the next time she came to the prison.]]>
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			<title>Now Lakki Marwat</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607733/now-lakki-marwat</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607733/now-lakki-marwat#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:34:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607733</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Nine killed in Lakki Marwat, soldiers martyred in North Waziristan]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Back-to-back terror attacks in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa simply confirm that terrorists are operating scot-free, and all efforts on the part of the state apparatus to stem the rising tide of terrorism are reactionary in essence. The killing of nine people, including two policemen, in Lakki Marwat, and the attack on a military camp in North Waziristan add the growing list of atrocities being committed by the terrorists. Four soldiers were martyred, whereas dozens are being treated for the blast in Lakki&#39;s Serai Naurang tehsil. These incidents have come just two days after a bloodshed in Bannu, apart from many other smaller-scale casualties reported on a daily basis.

The people of K-P and Balochistan are primarily on the receiving end. It goes without saying that the country is infected with a severe governance crisis and a lack of strategy to prevail over disgruntled elements. This warrants a realigned focus and a strategic shift toward aggressively targeting unscrupulous actors. The geographic junction of Lakki Marwat, North Waziristan and Bannu &ndash; which has been a theatre of mayhem for quite some time, mainly due to unchecked intrusions from across the western frontier &ndash; necessitates astute monitoring and greater coordination between the civil-military and community elders.

The Foreign Office&#39;s decision to summon the Afghan Deputy Head of Mission and serve a demarche was a much-needed step. But this should not stop here. Such reminders in the past have fallen on the deaf ears of Kabul. The reclusive regime &ndash; apparently obsessed with a power-intoxicated approach &ndash; has fallen back on international commitments, breached the Doha and Urumqi accords, and is seen openly pampering the terror nexus for political considerations. The least that the Afghan authorities can do is to cooperate with Pakistan, undertake a verifiable probe into the upheavals and sincerely go for exterminating the gangrene. These are altogether desired for the security and survival of the Afghans as well.]]>
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			<title>Justice beyond courtrooms</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607734/justice-beyond-courtrooms</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607734/justice-beyond-courtrooms#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:34:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607734</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[A Supreme Court mediation centre is a welcome step, but ADR alone cannot fix Pakistan's justice crisis]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan&#39;s legal system has long struggled under the weight of delay. Courtrooms across the country remain burdened with millions of pending cases, stretching from civil disputes and land conflicts to commercial disagreements and family matters. For ordinary litigants, justice is often measured not in months, but in years - sometimes decades. In such a system, the growing push towards mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) deserves serious attention, not as a fashionable reform, but as a practical necessity.

The establishment of a court-annexed mediation centre at the Supreme Court reflects an important recognition that conventional litigation alone cannot sustain the demands being placed on Pakistan&#39;s courts. The effort to train judges, court officials and legal professionals as mediators, while also offering free mediation services for those unable to afford them, is a welcome attempt to address the widening gap between legal rights and timely justice. The attraction of mediation is that it is quicker and less adversarial, often significantly cheaper than prolonged litigation. Countries across the world have increasingly adopted ADR mechanisms to reduce judicial burdens. Pakistan&#39;s own judiciary appears to be drawing lessons from these international models, particularly from Turkiye, where mediation reportedly resolved millions of disputes within a decade.

Yet, it must be understood that mediation is not a cure-all. Pakistan&#39;s justice system already suffers from procedural abuse and endless technical delays. If mediation merely becomes another mandatory step before litigation, it risks evolving into yet another layer of bureaucracy rather than a solution. A poorly supervised ADR framework could allow influential parties to pressure weaker litigants into settlements they do not genuinely accept. This risk is especially acute in disputes involving economically vulnerable groups, where power imbalances are stark. The success of ADR in Pakistan will therefore depend on how intelligently it is implemented.]]>
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			<title>Food profits and food poisoning</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607735/food-profits-and-food-poisoning</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607735/food-profits-and-food-poisoning#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:34:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607735</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan needs a full overhaul of its outdated food safety framework]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan boasts of a diverse and complex food culture &ndash; one notoriously unforgiving to a weak immune system. It is often disregarded under the guise of humour but in reality, it reflects a grave problem with food safety and quality management. Roadside vendors and informal food stalls are never even expected to maintain hygiene requirements for food handling, but increasing reports about cross-contamination and use of expired products in reputable eateries are gradually taking over this epidemic.

A family of 12 members from Bahawalpur, Punjab recently made the news after consuming watermelon and milk before sleeping and waking up to nausea and vomiting - prompting an urgent visit to the hospital for all 12 members. In light of countless reports and raids that have seized adulterated milk in the past, this singular case is clearly part of a much larger looming health hazard. Milk suppliers have even been caught lacing milk with detergent powder and supplying it to eateries and cafes. When it comes to leeching profits from consumers, there really is no category that has been spared including meat, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Food distributors sell meat from dead chickens to fast food outlets, stall and hotels almost as confidently as if it were a public demand.

Beyond fragmented raids, fines and temporary closures, food distributors and restaurants rarely face adequate consequences. There are no prosecutions, and regulatory frameworks are exhaustively outdated. Widespread digitisation has failed to materialise within the food ordinance, which still allows for manual record-keeping and can easily be outmanoeuvred. At least for thriving businesses, the government must mandate a system that enforces labelling, registering and electronically monitoring food batches, especially for items like milk. Without a system overhaul, irregular crackdowns only fulfil the role of keeping up appearances without meaningful rectification.]]>
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			<title>Food self-sufficiency - the elephant in the room</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607737/food-self-sufficiency-the-elephant-in-the-room</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607737/food-self-sufficiency-the-elephant-in-the-room#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:34:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Daud Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607737</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty isn't just political — it's a slow-burn food crisis]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan&#39;s food security policy continues on its chaotic rollercoaster course. Two years ago, public procurement of wheat was abolished and minimum support prices were discontinued. These were good decisions &ndash; in principle! Unfortunately, they were implemented too quickly and without the complementary measures that would allow the private sector to smoothly take over market operations. As a result of this hasty and poorly implemented policy, the wheat market fluctuated wildly. Prices of wheat stood at around Rs2,200 per 40kg at the time of harvest causing much distress to farmers. Subsequently, they shot up to Rs4,000 per 40kg through the course of the marketing year, causing much distress to consumers.

In 2025, the Government backtracked and minimum support price for wheat was reintroduced. The new policy fixed a wheat buying price of Rs3,500 per 40kg; and the Government, in conjunction with the provinces, committed to purchase 6.2 million tons nationwide.

Rather curiously, the policy stated that it is the private sector that would be licensed to do the buying and storing on behalf of the Government and would be compensated for procurement services, storage services and financial costs. However, it is not clear who would select the licensed agents and if they can charge the Government whatever costs they incur, without any benchmarking or audit. The situation was made even more uncertain by the Sindh Government which stated that it would not rely on the private sector and instead buy directly from farmers - presumably only from those in Sindh. But it was not clear how this would be enforced without strong inter-provincial controls on the movement of wheat. Let us see how all this plays out in the coming months and what further U-turns are in the pipeline.

While the Government continues in this fog of confusion, many Pakistanis simply lack food. The 2026 Global Report on Food Crises by the FAO and its partner organisations identified Pakistan as having the eighth largest population facing high levels of acute food insecurity globally.

Moreover, major adverse developments at international and regional scale are threatening Pakistan&#39;s food system. These include turbulence in the international oil and fertiliser markets due to the Middle East conflict, growing uncertainty around the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and rapid climate change.

Firstly, fertiliser. Agricultural productivity in Pakistan is critically dependent on chemical inputs, a significant portion of which is either imported directly or produced domestically using imported energy. Disruptions in global supply chains - whether due to conflict, trade restrictions or price volatility - translate quickly into reduced availability or higher costs for farmers. Recent developments in the Gulf region, particularly around key shipping routes, underscore how exposed these supply chains are.

Secondly, water. Pakistan&#39;s agriculture depends overwhelmingly on the Indus basin irrigation system. The reliability of the system has historically been underpinned by IWT - a rare example of sustained transboundary water cooperation. Unfortunately, India has placed the treaty in abeyance. While immediate disruptions may be limited, the longer-term implications are harder to ignore. Any changes in water flows, storage infrastructure or timing - whether driven by political developments or climate variability - could have far-reaching consequences for agricultural production.

Thirdly, climate change. Pakistan is one of the countries most affected by climate change and we have all seen the images of parched crops and of floods of biblical proportions. Adapting to higher temperatures and rainfall that is more erratic will require major changes in cropping techniques, cropping patterns and the spatial location of production.

Taken together, these dynamics point to a highly complex reality &ndash; Pakistan&#39;s food system is embedded in global supply chains, dependent on transboundary resource arrangements and vulnerable to climate change. Addressing these issues will require a fundamental change in the thinking about food systems. It will require Pakistani policymakers to understand that food security is not merely an issue of agricultural output, but one of strategic resilience encompassing global supply chains, natural resources and climate change.

Responding to these challenges will require actions at multiple levels. At the federal level, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research has to expand its policy toolkit beyond that of fixing production targets and setting prices. It must develop policies and strategies to improve input-use efficiency for fertiliser and water, especially at farm level; develop rainfed farming, especially in those areas that were previously arid but now have occasional rains; and above all strengthen the agricultural research and innovations system. It has also to deal with the issues and risks that cannot be managed at the provincial level such as trade disruptions, energy markets and international water arrangements.

Much also has to be done at provincial and district levels, particularly to address the situation of the poorest and most food insecure through well-designed schemes and programmes; to build capacity to respond to climatic and other emergencies; and to strengthen the capacity of households to absorb external shocks. Finally, the private sector also a role to play to drive the change towards a more inclusive and resilient food system.

Recognising that our current policies have major gaps is not an admission of failure; it is a necessary step towards building a system that is not only productive, but resilient as well.]]>
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			<title>Child marriage: a persistent form of gender inequality</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607738/child-marriage-a-persistent-form-of-gender-inequality</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607738/child-marriage-a-persistent-form-of-gender-inequality#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:34:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Fiza Farhan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607738</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[A girl who stays in school is far less likely to be married young]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Child marriage is not a tradition we can afford to romanticise. It is a violation of childhood, consent and opportunity. Defined as any formal or informal union where one or both parties are under 18, child marriage remains one of Pakistan&#39;s most persistent forms of gender inequality. Despite legal prohibitions, girls continue to be married before they are old enough to choose, study, work, vote, or understand the consequences of a decision made for them.

Pakistan is home to one of the largest populations of child brides in the world. Around one in five girls is married before 18, and some before 15. This means millions of girls whose childhoods have been shortened by poverty, social pressure and deeply embedded gender norms. Child marriage rates have fallen from more than 40 per cent in the early 1990s to under 20 per cent in recent years. But progress is uneven, especially in rural and low-income communities.

The geography of child marriage is also the geography of exclusion. Girls in rural areas are far more likely to be married early than girls in cities. Poverty sharpens the risk: families facing hardship may see marriage as one less mouth to feed, or one way to secure a daughter&#39;s future. Lack of education compounds the problem. A girl who stays in school is far less likely to be married as a child; a girl who never completes school is far more vulnerable.

The consequences are devastating and lifelong. Child brides often become adolescent mothers, facing pregnancies their bodies and minds may not be ready for. Early pregnancy increases the risk of complications, maternal mortality and poor health outcomes for newborns. Marriage also frequently ends a girl&#39;s education. Once she drops out, her chances of earning an income, building independence and participating in public life shrink dramatically. The result is dependency and poverty carried into the next generation.

There is also a psychological cost we rarely name. A child pushed into marriage is suddenly expected to become a wife, daughter-in-law, caregiver and, often, mother. She may be isolated from friends, removed from school and placed in an unequal relationship where she has little power. What is described as protection can become confinement. What is defended as custom can become coercion.

The drivers are complex but not mysterious. They include poverty, insecurity, patriarchal ideas about honour, weak enforcement of laws and harmful customary practices such as vani, swara and watta satta. These practices may be justified in the language of culture, but no culture should be used to excuse the transfer of a child&#39;s future without her consent. In some cases, child marriage is also linked to abduction, forced conversion and forced marriage of girls from religious minorities.

Pakistan has taken important steps. Government bodies, civil society and development partners increasingly recognise that ending child marriage is central to protecting children&#39;s rights and advancing national development. The National Commission on the Status of Women, with UNICEF support, launched a National Gender Strategy for 2024-2027 that places adolescent girls&#39; empowerment and child marriage prevention on the agenda. But strategies must now translate into visible change at the household, school, union council and district levels.

The strongest protection against child marriage is education. Expanding free, safe and quality secondary education for girls, particularly in rural and poor communities, should be a national priority. Scholarships, stipends, transport support and safe school environments can make the difference between a girl staying in class and being married off. Life skills and legal awareness can also help girls understand their rights.

Families must be part of the solution, not simply blamed. Many parents act under fear, poverty or social pressure. Community engagement with parents, elders, religious leaders and local influencers is essential to shift attitudes and show that delaying marriage protects girls&#39; health, strengthens families and improves economic outcomes. Social protection can also reduce the financial pressures that push families towards early marriage.

Finally, laws must be enforced. Birth and marriage registration should be mandatory. Police, local administrations and courts must treat child marriage as a serious offence, not a private family matter. Child protection committees can help prevent cases before they are solemnised. Legal reform without enforcement is only paper protection.

Ending child marriage is not only about saving girls from harm. It is about allowing them to become who they could have been: students, professionals, entrepreneurs, leaders, mothers by choice and citizens with agency. Pakistan cannot build a fairer, stronger future while millions of girls are denied the chance to grow into it.]]>
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			<title>Before the roof comes off</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607732/before-the-roof-comes-off</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607732/before-the-roof-comes-off#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 26 19:34:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Amna Hashmi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607732</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[When official reality drifts from reality itself, democracy hollows out]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[I recently read a piece in this very op-ed section that caught my attention. Someone wrote about the assassination attempts on Donald Trump. Not the attempts themselves, but the silence around them. The mainstream media&#39;s silence. Trump&#39;s own silence. The lack of comment from the whole political and media establishment that would have occupied months of airtime in other circumstances. His point was straightforward: the quiet is stranger than the shots.

I&#39;ve been thinking about reactor number four ever since.

On the night of April 26, 1986, operators at Chernobyl watched instruments behave in ways the manual said were impossible. They continued with the test anyway. The explosion took place and officials classified it as a minor accident. Firefighters arrived on the scene but they were not wearing radiation suits. For 36 hours, people in Pripyat lived as they were accustomed to, and the air around them slowly poisoned them.

Years later, Mikhail Gorbachev, the leader of the USSR, would suggest that Chernobyl, more than any Western pressure campaign, exposed the deeper weakness of the Soviet system: the increasing gap between official reality and reality itself.

Hannah Arendt called it the banality of evil. Not monsters. People at their desks doing what they&#39;re supposed to do, but not asking questions. The agent from the FBI who closes the file. The person who edits the story in the editor&#39;s chair. The person who sends it to the weather. No one wants to be covering anything up. They each, individually, decide not to look.

Now consider the past few years in America. A number of major security incidents involving a former and current President, armed individuals around sensitive political events and places, have generated little sustained public attention. Some were initially reported, but largely left out of public discourse after a short period. The absence of curiosity, whatever the reasons might be, seems historically peculiar.

That does not prove conspiracy. It proves something arguably more troubling that is a growing normalisation of institutional opacity.

America has seen this pattern before. Iraq failed to deliver WMD, and not many of those who made the decisions were held accountable. In 2008, a series of financial risks that were both catastrophic and visible were piling up, and no one at the top was held accountable. Epstein died in federal custody while multiple safeguards failed simultaneously. These events are not the same, and they are not necessarily coordinated in secret to be of any consequence. They show together an increasingly contradictory institutional capacity to take contradiction without any real accountability.

And now this same political system demands transparency from rivals abroad and claims to be the custodian of democratic credibility. That claim is also a bit difficult to sustain given its contradictory conduct involving the ongoing war, which has made its word as a negotiating party harder for the world to accept. The Iran nuclear issue is a legitimate international concern. But credibility in diplomacy is not built only on military power or legal arguments, it also depends on whether a state appears willing to confront uncomfortable realities within its own system.

A century ago Walter Lippmann noted that democracy requires that the public be provided with a reliable picture of the world. When that picture is managed, meaning not falsified but carefully cropped, democracy continues to function procedurally while hollowing out from within.

I am not arguing that America is uniquely corrupt, nor that every unanswered question hides some grand conspiracy. The argument is much simpler: societies become fragile when institutions begin treating public uncertainty as a public relations problem instead of a necessity of democracy.

The Soviets ignored the dosimeters until the roof came off the reactor.

The question is whether America still recognises the sound the alarms make before the concrete starts splitting open.]]>
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			<title>Mysterious world beyond Pluto may have an atmosphere</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606428/mysterious-world-beyond-pluto-may-have-an-atmosphere</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606428/mysterious-world-beyond-pluto-may-have-an-atmosphere#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 04 May 26 21:48:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2606428</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Formerly classified as a planet, Pluto was demoted to dwarf planet status in 2006]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A tiny, little-known world beyond Pluto appears to have an atmosphere, Japanese astronomers said Monday, defying what had been thought possible for icy objects in our cosmic backyard.

If confirmed, the roughly 500-kilometre-wide (310-mile) rock would become just the second world past Neptune in our Solar System to host an atmosphere -- after only Pluto itself.

Formerly classified as a planet, Pluto was demoted to dwarf planet status in 2006, in part because astronomers were discovering other similar objects in a distant region called the Kuiper Belt.

While NASA under US President Donald Trump has floated the idea of restoring Pluto&#39;s planet status, the discovery of another atmosphere nearby could undermine the argument for its reinstatement.

For the new discovery, Japanese researchers and an amateur astronomer pointed their telescopes at an object with the unwieldy name of (612533) 2002 XV93.

The icy world is nearly 40 times further from the Sun than Earth -- or roughly six billion kilometres away.

These dark objects can only be seen when they pass in front of a distant star.

When this happened in January 2024, the astronomers observed that the starlight did not immediately reappear, suggesting a thin atmosphere was filtering some of the light.

They estimate that the world has an atmosphere five to 10 million times thinner than Earth&#39;s, according to a new study in Nature Astronomy.

&quot;This is important because, until now, Pluto was the only trans-Neptunian object with a confirmed atmosphere,&quot; lead study author Ko Arimatsu of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan told AFP.

Such small worlds had not been thought capable of hosting an atmosphere.

&quot;This discovery therefore challenges the conventional view that small icy worlds in the outer Solar System are mostly inactive and unchanging,&quot; he added.

The researchers could not say for sure what created the atmosphere, which is nowhere near thick enough to support life.]]>
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			<title>Trump hosts crypto contest winners at Mar-a-Lago</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604852/trump-hosts-crypto-contest-winners-at-mar-a-lago</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604852/trump-hosts-crypto-contest-winners-at-mar-a-lago#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 26 Apr 26 00:41:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2604852</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[US President Donald Trump hosted winners of his second annual meme coin contest at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, on Saturday, offering top buyers of his $TRUMP cryptocurrency an audience with him even as the token&#39;s value has plunged more than 95% from its peak last year.

The gala took place as scrutiny of the Trump family&#39;s broader crypto ventures has intensified, with Democratic leaders calling for investigations.

The 297 largest $TRUMP token holders who registered for the contest attended a gathering that Trump has billed as the &quot;most exclusive&quot; crypto and business conference in the world, where he gave the keynote address. The top 29 also attended a &quot;special VIP reception and champagne toast&quot; with the president.

The day-long event is the latest example of Trump blending presidential stature with his family&#39;s growing portfolio of speculative crypto ventures - a convergence government ethics experts say has little modern precedent, particularly since Trump&#39;s personal crypto wealth has ballooned as he reshapes U.S. crypto policy.

Trump&#39;s appearance at the gala was not open to the public. But he later told reporters that he felt an &quot;obligation&quot; to support the crypto industry.

&quot;As a president, I have to be able to make sure that all of our industries do well,&quot; Trump said before he boarded Air Force One on Saturday afternoon for his return to Washington, D.C. &quot;Crypto is a big industry, it&#39;s actually become somewhat mainstream.&quot;

While many retail buyers who piled into the token around its launch have seen most of their paper gains disappear, the Trump family and affiliated entities have continued to profit from the broader crypto ecosystem.

A Reuters examination found that the family has taken in more than $1 billion from crypto asset sales, including at least $336 million tied to meme-coin sales in the first half of 2025 alone, with potentially billions more in unrealized gains.

&quot;President Trump&#39;s assets are in a trust managed by his children,&quot; White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told Reuters, adding that the president only acts in the best interests of the American public. &quot;There are no conflicts of interest.&quot;

Last year&#39;s meme-coin contest, at his golf club near Washington, D.C., raised similar concerns for ethics experts, as did a February conference at Mar-a-Lago hosted by the president&#39;s sons, Eric and Don Jr., for World Liberty Financial, the Trump family&#39;s most lucrative crypto venture, which drew top figures from Washington, D.C. and Wall Street.

Contest rankings were based not only on holdings of $TRUMP but also on purchases of Trump-branded merchandise - including sneakers, watches and fragrances - between March 12 and April 14]]>
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			<title>Aima Baig and 'Rastah' founder Zain Ahmed are officially married</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2559938/aima-baig-and-rastah-founder-zain-ahmed-are-officially-married</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2559938/aima-baig-and-rastah-founder-zain-ahmed-are-officially-married#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 25 11:57:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Spotlight]]></category><category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2559938</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Singer makes announcement through IG post]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Congratulations are in order for&nbsp; Aima Baig and Zain Ahmed. Aima took to Instagram and penned, &ldquo;Married my best friend last night, Alhumdulillah.&rdquo; The two have been together since 2024 and made it official in an intimate ceremony in Canada last night.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&ldquo;It still feels like a dream. It actually happened.&rdquo; she wrote with a string of ring emojis. &ldquo;Keep us in your Duas as we begin this new chapter together.&rdquo; Aima reassured fans that more photos of her as a bride are to come. &ldquo;Will be uploading our solo pictures eventually, super overwhelmed for now but IA soon.&rdquo; she said.



https://www.instagram.com/p/DNAm1qDT6da/




&nbsp;Whispers of the pair began to circulate the internet in 2024 and speculation continued to rise after the singer shared several pictures with Zain on Instagram.

On one such occasion, Aima shared an Instagram story with Zain as the two adorned their necks with chains and twin charms. The three heart emojis accompanying the story coupled with the two evidently showing off their matching accessories were, at the very least, indicative of their closeness to each other.&nbsp;

Aima rose to fame through her contribution to the Lahore Se Aagey soundtrack and went on to perform for Coke Studio, as well as collaborating with renowned artists such as Atif Aslam. She has also worked on the music for the film Parey Hut Love.

Zain co-founded Rastah, a Lahore-based streetwear brand, in 2018. The label focuses on sustainable and artisanal fashion, with its products designed, sourced, and crafted by local artisans in Pakistan in limited runs.

Rastah has gained international attention, with features in Vogue and its clothing worn by notable figures such as Justin Bieber, rapper French Montana, and Oscar-winning actor Riz Ahmed.]]>
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			<title>Kanye West calls Virgil Abloh’s death a message for those who ‘steal’ from him</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542793/kanye-west-calls-virgil-ablohs-death-a-message-for-those-who-steal-from-him</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542793/kanye-west-calls-virgil-ablohs-death-a-message-for-those-who-steal-from-him#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 25 11:25:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Pop Culture &amp; Art]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2542793</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Ye cannot seem to keep his late friend's name out of his mouth.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Kanye West, now known simply as Ye, has sparked intense conversation once again, this time during a Parti livestream with Sneako over the weekend.

The rapper and fashion icon used Virgil Abloh&rsquo;s death as a heavy-handed example of what happens to people who, in his view, &quot;steal&quot; from him.

At around the 15-minute mark of the stream, Ye shared, &ldquo;You know when ns be really mad? It&rsquo;s when you actually give them something &lsquo;cause they don&#39;t want to actually receive, so they want to take it from them. But if you give it to them, it&rsquo;ll make it really make them feel bad like, &lsquo;Damn.&rsquo; And then the best? The blessings are bestowed as I bestow grace on these ns.&rdquo;

Ye didn&rsquo;t stop there.

He continued, &ldquo;And I&#39;m like, man, ns who go against me be dead, bro. Ns who steal from me, bro, look at Virgil, he dead, bro. N****s who steal from me and try to take the king position be dead, bro.&rdquo;








Doubling down on his statements, he added, &ldquo;When we say &lsquo;watch the throne,&rsquo; it&#39;s only one throne. It&#39;s only one king, and we know who the king is obviously. Who y&#39;all watching, who y&#39;all care about?&rdquo;

Just a minute deeper into the conversation, Ye connected Abloh&rsquo;s appointment as Louis Vuitton&rsquo;s artistic director in 2018 to personal trauma, along with &quot;dealing with [his] children&quot; and the death of his mother back in 2007.

This is far from the first time Ye has spoken harshly about Virgil Abloh since his passing from a private cancer battle in 2021.

Earlier this year, Ye posted a fiery rant on X (formerly Twitter), where he said, &ldquo;I LOVE TRAV VIRGIL AND DRAKE DRAKE THE REALEST ONE OF THOSE THREE THOUGH HE NOT FAKE COOL HE&rsquo;S JUST TALENTED AF AND YES ITS FUCK VIRGIL AND ANY OF THESE OTHER N****S THAT WORKED FOR ME THAN USED ME THEN WENT AGAINST ME I LOVE VIRGIL AND HE USED THAT VERY LOVE TO BEAT NIGERIANS ARE SUPER SMART.&rdquo;

&nbsp;

Ye also out right tweeted, &#39;F*** Virgil. His tweet sent a shockwave to fans since the two had a long standing friendship.&nbsp;



Earlier this year, West also revealed why he turned on Abloh.&nbsp;



While many fans still mourn Abloh&rsquo;s contributions to fashion and culture, Ye&rsquo;s comments are yet another reminder of the complicated legacy between the two former collaborators.]]>
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			<title>7 surprising foods that boost your gut health (backed by science)</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542754/7-surprising-foods-that-boost-your-gut-health-backed-by-science</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542754/7-surprising-foods-that-boost-your-gut-health-backed-by-science#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 25 07:51:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Life And Style Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2542754</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[What you eat today can shape your gut and your health for years to come.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[When people think of gut health, they usually picture yogurt, kefir, or maybe the occasional probiotic supplement.

But the truth is, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome goes far beyond the usual suspects.

Your gut, home to trillions of bacteria, plays a vital role not only in digestion but also in immunity, mental health, and even skin clarity.

According to a 2022 review published in Nature Reviews Gastroenterology &amp; Hepatology, diverse diets rich in prebiotics, polyphenols, and fermented foods are key to cultivating a thriving microbiome.

If you&#39;re looking to support your gut health in a more creative way, here are seven unexpected foods, backed by science, that can make a real difference.

1. Dark Chocolate



Good news for chocolate lovers: dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) contains polyphenols that act like fuel for beneficial gut bacteria. Research in Frontiers in Nutrition (2021) shows that cocoa flavonoids help increase populations of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, two crucial &quot;good&quot; bacteria.

2. Seaweed



Popular in Japanese cuisine, edible seaweeds like nori, wakame, and kombu are rich in fibre and unique polysaccharides. Studies, including one in Marine Drugs (2020), show that these fibres serve as excellent prebiotics, feeding beneficial bacteria and even supporting the growth of less common gut microbes.

3. Green Bananas



While ripe bananas are a source of simple sugars, unripe green bananas are packed with resistant starch, a type of fibre that resists digestion and feeds healthy gut bacteria. Clinical research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2019) found resistant starch can boost butyrate production, a short-chain fatty acid crucial for colon health.

4. Artichokes



Jerusalem and globe artichokes are among the richest natural sources of inulin, a powerful prebiotic fibre. A study in The British Journal of Nutrition (2016) found that consuming artichoke extract significantly increased Bifidobacteria levels in healthy adults.

5. Miso



This fermented soybean paste is a staple in Japanese cooking and is loaded with probiotics. According to a 2022 paper in Foods, regular consumption of miso can enhance microbiota diversity and reduce markers of inflammation in the gut.

6. Pistachios



These nuts are more than just a snack &mdash; they are packed with fibre and polyphenols. A controlled trial published in The Journal of Nutrition (2014) found that participants who ate pistachios daily had significantly higher levels of beneficial gut bacteria compared to those who ate almonds.

7. Pomegranate Seeds



Bursting with antioxidants and fibre, pomegranate seeds (also called arils) have been shown to modulate the gut microbiome positively. A 2021 review in Nutrients found that pomegranate polyphenols can promote the growth of anti-inflammatory bacterial strains and may help repair the gut lining.]]>
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			<title>9 gorgeous 3D flower nail designs to brighten up your spring mani</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542751/9-gorgeous-3d-flower-nail-designs-to-brighten-up-your-spring-mani</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542751/9-gorgeous-3d-flower-nail-designs-to-brighten-up-your-spring-mani#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 25 07:37:46 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Life And Style Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2542751</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The perfect blend of intricate detail and seasonal beauty.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Spring is the perfect time to refresh your look, and what better way to do that than with a stunning, floral-inspired mani?

3D flower nail art has been taking the nail world by storm, offering a fun and fresh way to bring some extra flair to your fingertips.

Whether you&#39;re heading to a garden party, brunch with friends, or just looking to brighten up your day, these intricate and creative designs add a playful touch to any outfit.

From soft pastel florals to bold, vibrant blooms, 3D flowers give your nails an elevated, textured effect that&#39;s sure to turn heads.

So, if you&#39;re ready to embrace the season with style, keep reading for 9 of our favorite 3D flower nail designs that are sure to inspire your next spring mani.

1. Feeling Blue



These pink and blue nails are total and utter perfection. Each finger is different, yet together, they look totally cohesive. If we had to choose a fave nail, though, it would have to be the cobalt digit with a 3D flower (of course).

2. Flowers in Bloom



Real flowers may only flourish for a few short days, but nail art flowers will last for weeks. Look closely, and you&#39;ll notice how the speckles on these flowers are also on the French tips. Stunning!

3. Short and Vibrant



You can embrace 3D flowers without long, or even medium-length, nails. The vibrant color pairings in this super short set are especially fun.

4. Butter Yellow



What do you get when you combine aura nails with 3D flowers in butter yellow? This glorious masterpiece. The combo of pale and bright yellow is chef&#39;s kiss, and the dainty flowers elevate the whole look.

5. Summer Vibes



Yellow is, without a doubt, one of our absolute go-to hues for spring and summer, and we can&#39;t get enough of the butter yellow, mustard, and gold blend in this set. The mismatched look includes French tips, 3D flowers, and even a touch of chrome.

6. Pastel Aura



We don&#39;t know about you, but this pastel aura mani makes us want to book a trip to Hawaii ASAP. You can try DIY-ing a 3D flower manicure with nail charms, but if you&#39;d prefer builder gel flowers, we suggest taking this photo to your nail tech for inspo.

7. Spring Fling



When we first laid eyes on this spring fling mani, we knew it deserved a spot on our mood board. The pearlescent nails have gorgeous mermaid vibes, but we think the 3D flower is the real star of the show.

8. Textured Floral Frenchy



A classic French nail will never go out of style, but if you want to take yours to the next level, take note from this mani and add some florals. After painting on light pink French tips, grab some white flower decals and pop on some rhinestones for a touch of bling.

9. Chrome Accents



We&#39;re firmly Team Chrome. The dusting of gold and pink chrome over these subtle 3D flowers is so unique (and bound to get you compliments left and right).]]>
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			<title>Trump rules out any deal except ‘unconditional surrender’ as Iran vows to defend its ‘dignity and sovereignty’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2596085/trump-says-not-currently-considering-us-ground-forces-in-iran</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2596085/trump-says-not-currently-considering-us-ground-forces-in-iran#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 26 05:23:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2596085</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Iran says some countries have begun mediation efforts amid retaliatory strikes]]>
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				<![CDATA[United States President &zwnj;Donald Trump demanded Iran&#39;s &quot;unconditional surrender&quot; on Friday and ruled out any deal, a dramatic escalation of his demands a week into the war he launched alongside Israel.

Trump made the remarks on social media just hours after Iran&#39;s president announced that unspecified countries had ​begun mediation efforts in one of the first signals of any diplomatic initiative to end ​the conflict.

&quot;After ⁠that, and the selection of a great and acceptable leader(s), we, and many of our wonderful ​and very brave allies and partners, will work tirelessly to bring Iran back from the brink of ​destruction, making it economically bigger, better, and stronger than ever before.&quot;



https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/116182551337254643



On Thursday, Trump had told Reuters in a telephone interview that he was demanding the right to help select Iran&#39;s new supreme leader, to replace Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed ​in the war&#39;s first day.

Israel pounded the Lebanese capital Beirut on Friday after ordering an unprecedented evacuation ​of the entire southern suburbs of the city, in a major expansion of the war.

It carried out heavy air strikes on Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut and started a &quot;broad-scale&quot; wave of attacks against infrastructure in Tehran, while Iran said it targeted the heart of Tel Aviv with missiles.

Explosions and flashes lit up the night sky over Beirut&#39;s southern suburbs. The Israeli military said it had carried out 26 waves of strikes overnight in the southern suburbs, saying targets included Iran-backed Hezbollah militia command centres and weapons storage facilities.

It also launched a new &zwnj;wave ⁠of attacks on Iran, saying 50 of its warplanes had struck a bunker beneath the destroyed Tehran compound of Khamenei, still being used by Iran&#39;s leadership after he was killed.

Iran says some countries have begun mediation efforts amid retaliatory strikes

Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian revealed that some countries had begun mediation efforts as the Islamic Republic continued its retaliatory strikes against Israel and US military bases in the Gulf region.

&ldquo;Some countries have begun efforts at mediation,&rdquo; Pezeshkian wrote in a post on his official X handle.

&ldquo;Our response to them is clear: we are committed to lasting peace in the region, but we have not the slightest doubt in defending the dignity and sovereignty of our country,&rdquo; he added. &ldquo;The intended audience for mediation should be those who, by underestimating the Iranian people, have stoked the flames.&rdquo;



Some countries have begun mediation efforts. Let&#39;s be clear: we are committed to lasting peace in the region yet we have no hesitation in defending our nation&#39;s dignity &amp; sovereignty. Mediation should address those who underestimated the Iranian people and ignited this conflict https://t.co/MxWCuNYOYR
&mdash; Masoud Pezeshkian (@drpezeshkian) March 6, 2026


Iran&rsquo;s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said Kheibar missiles were fired towards Tel Aviv as part of the 21st wave of its &ldquo;Operation True Promise 4&quot;. In a statement, the IRGC said the wave began with a combined missile and drone operation targeting sites in the heart of Tel Aviv.

Overnight, Iranian drones attacked the US Al Udied airbase in Qatar, the biggest US base in the Middle East, Qatari officials said. There were no reported casualties.

The IRGC said Iranian forces had targeted the Ramat David air base and a radar site in Israel, the Al-Adiri camp in Kuwait where US forces are stationed, and a drone attack on a base hosting US troops in Erbil, Iraq.

A Guards spokesperson said new initiatives and weapons would soon be deployed to confront Israeli and U.S. aggression, without giving details.

&quot;This was an &#39;existential war&#39; for Iran, leaving us with no choice but to respond wherever American attacks originate from,&rdquo; Iran&rsquo;s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said at the Raisina Dialogues conference in New Delhi on Friday.

Hezbollah, in a message published in Hebrew on its Telegram channel early on Friday, warned Israelis to leave towns within five kilometres of the border.

&quot;Your military&#39;s aggression against Lebanese sovereignty and safe citizens, the destruction of civilian infrastructure and the expulsion campaign it is carrying out will not go unchallenged,&quot; Hezbollah said.

At least 1,230 people have been killed in Iran since the fighting began a week ago, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society.

The Lebanese health ministry has reported 123 people have been killed and another 683 wounded as a result of Israeli attacks this week. Its figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants. There have been no reported fatalities in Israel as a result of Hezbollah attacks.

Azerbaijan was preparing unspecified retaliatory measures on Thursday after it said four Iranian drones crossed its border and injured four &zwnj;people in the Nakhchivan exclave. Iran, which has a significant Azeri minority, denied it targeted its neighbour.

Ground troops in Iran

Trump said on Thursday it would be a &quot;waste of time&quot; currently to consider sending US ground troops into Iran, NBC News reported, dismissing the Iranian foreign minister&#39;s warning that such a move would spell disaster for invaders.

&quot;It&#39;s a waste of time. They&#39;ve lost everything. They&#39;ve lost their navy. They&#39;ve lost everything they can lose,&quot; he told NBC by telephone, adding that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi&#39;s earlier remark that Iran was ready for a US or Israeli ground invasion was a &quot;wasted comment&quot;.



US President Trump said Iran is being demolished &ldquo;ahead of schedule and at levels people have never seen before&rdquo;, claiming the country now has &ldquo;no air force, no air defence&rdquo; and the air force is &ldquo;gone&rdquo;.

🔴 Follow our LIVE coverage: https://t.co/q1Q18tbGFl pic.twitter.com/ILTEFBYY5m
&mdash; Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) March 6, 2026


Trump also indicated he is keen to see Iran&#39;s leadership structure removed and that &quot;we want to go in and clean out everything&quot; quickly.

&quot;We don&#39;t want someone who would rebuild over a 10-year period,&quot; he said. He added that he had ideas for a new leader but declined to name anyone.

Trump said earlier he would &quot;have to be involved&quot; in the appointment of Iran&#39;s next leader after US-Israeli strikes killed Khamenei when the conflict began on Saturday. He rejected the possibility that Khamenei&#39;s son Mojtaba could succeed his slain father, dismissing him as a &quot;lightweight&quot;.

Heavy attacks were reported in Tehran after Israel said it was hitting &quot;regime infrastructure&quot; in a &quot;new phase&quot; of the war it launched with the US against Iran.

Read: Middle East war spreads to Lebanon, Iraq as Israel attacks Tehran

The conflict, now in its seventh day, has seen Iran target Israel, the Gulf states, Cyprus, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. The violence has also spread to the Indian Ocean, where a US submarine sank an Iranian naval ship off the coast of Sri Lanka.

The Iranian ship was invited to take part in the International Fleet Review 2026 in India. The strike killed around 87 sailors.



Welcome! | خوش آمدید!

🇮🇳🤝🇮🇷 Indian Navy welcomes IRIS Dena, of the Iranian Navy, on her arrival at #Visakhapatnam to participate in #IFR2026_India and #MILAN2026, reflecting long-standing cultural links between the two nations.@India_in_Iran #BridgesOfFriendship&hellip; pic.twitter.com/O77v2qNJHJ
&mdash; Eastern Naval Command 🇮🇳 (@IN_HQENC) February 17, 2026


According to former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal, he wrote in a post on X that, &quot;I am told that as per protocol for this exercise, ships cannot carry any ammunition. It was defenceless.&quot;



The Iranian ship will not be where it was if we had not invited it to talk part in our Milan exercise.

We were the hosts.

I am told that as per protocol for this exercise ships cannot carry any ammunition. It was defenceless.

The Iranian naval personnel had paraded before&hellip; https://t.co/3r8bWFJn8d
&mdash; Kanwal Sibal (@KanwalSibal) March 5, 2026


Araghchi has rejected calls for a ceasefire and stated there was no reason to negotiate with the US. Despite the challenges, Iranian forces continue to retaliate against Israel and its allies. According to Drop Site News, Iran warns that it has not begun using their &quot;new&quot; weapons.

IRGC spokesman Brig. Gen. Ali Mohammad Naeini said, according to Mehr News Agency, &ldquo;The enemy should expect painful blows in every operational wave,&rdquo; he said, adding that Iran&rsquo;s &ldquo;new innovations and weapons&rdquo; have not yet been used on a large scale.



⭕️ Iran warns new weapons have not yet been used

Iran is prepared for a prolonged war and has not yet deployed many of its newest weapons systems, IRGC spokesman Brig. Gen. Ali Mohammad Naeini said, according to Mehr News Agency.

➤ &ldquo;The enemy should expect painful blows in&hellip; https://t.co/54Lc5YXOFe
&mdash; Drop Site (@DropSiteNews) March 6, 2026


US-Israeli escalation

On Friday morning, Iranian media reported heavy strikes in Tehran shortly after Israel&rsquo;s announcement that it was targeting Iran&rsquo;s &quot;regime infrastructure&quot;.

Israel&rsquo;s military chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, warned that the US-Israeli campaign had entered the next phase and would &ldquo;further dismantle the regime and its military capabilities&rdquo;.

Zamir also hinted at &quot;additional surprises&quot; to come, but declined to disclose further details. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that &ldquo;firepower over Iran and over Tehran is about to surge dramatically&quot;.



🚨Important: IDF Chief of Staff outlines next phase of war against Iran and Lebanon

▪️On Iran, Israel will escalate strikes aimed at weakening the Iranian state:

&ldquo;We will intensify the blow to the foundations of the regime and its military capabilities. We still have additional&hellip; pic.twitter.com/rJdN0O3UmB
&mdash; Drop Site (@DropSiteNews) March 5, 2026


Iran&rsquo;s Revolutionary Guards responded by launching missiles toward Tel Aviv after an earlier explosion in central Israel caused a fire at a residential building. AFP journalists reported hearing simultaneous explosions in Tel Aviv, while rocket trails lit up the sky in Netanya, further north.

Trump backs Kurds

In the midst of the escalating conflict, Trump expressed support for Iranian Kurdish militias in Iraq, encouraging them to intensify their attacks against Iran.

Speaking to Reuters, Trump stated, &ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s wonderful that they want to do that, I&#39;d be all for it.&rdquo;

These militias, based along the Iran-Iraq border in Iraqi Kurdistan, have been in consultations with the US on launching attacks on Iran&rsquo;s western security forces.

Read more: Iran hits CIA site in Riyadh as US seeks to arm Kurdish forces against Tehran

Security sources reported two Iranian drone strikes on an opposition camp in Iraqi Kurdistan on Thursday, underscoring the rising violence. Iranian Kurdish forces have been preparing for such operations to weaken Iran&rsquo;s military while US and Israeli airstrikes target Iranian installations.

Iran&rsquo;s future leadership

Meanwhile, Hegseth sought to clarify that, despite Trump&rsquo;s comments, there were no changes in the US military&rsquo;s objectives in Iran. &quot;There&rsquo;s no expansion in our objectives. We know exactly what we&rsquo;re trying to achieve,&quot; Hegseth said.

Also read: US investigation points to likely US responsibility in Iran school strike, sources say

Azerbaijan prepares retaliation

Azerbaijan has vowed to retaliate after &quot;Iranian&quot; drones crossed its border and injured four people in the Nakhchivan exclave. President Ilham Aliyev condemned the attacks as an &ldquo;unprovoked act of terror and aggression&rdquo; and vowed to take action.

Hezbollah responds

Hezbollah, an armed force fighting against Israeli aggression in Lebanon, launched missiles in retaliation for the war.

Displaced families are seeking shelter on a beach, facing dire conditions.

Attacks across region

US forces sank an Iranian frigate off the coast of Sri Lanka that had travelled to India to take part in a parade, while Azerbaijan threatened retaliation after a drone attack on an airport. Iran also targeted US bases inside Gulf countries, including Qatar, which intercepted a drone targeting a US base in Al-Udeid. Bahrain reported an alleged attack on a hotel and residential buildings, while Saudi Arabia intercepted three ballistic missiles.

Casualties mount in Iran, Lebanon

In Lebanon, 77 have died. Thousands have fled southern Beirut, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Additionally, two paramedics have been killed in Shiraz, Iran, according to Al Jazeera.



UPDATE: Two paramedics killed in Shiraz, Iran: Report

🔴 LIVE updates: https://t.co/C3iSVX4pRP pic.twitter.com/CXHJVw5D20
&mdash; Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) March 6, 2026


More than 3,000 homes in Iran were damaged by US-Israeli attacks, according to the Red Crescent.

Pir Hossein Kolivand, president of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, says the US-Israeli attacks have damaged 3,643 civilian sites, including 3,090 homes. Also damaged are 528 commercial and service centres, 14 medical or pharmaceutical facilities and nine Red Crescent facilities, he said.

Most of the targets, he added, were in &ldquo;densely populated residential areas&rdquo;.

Drop Site News reports that 20 more Iranian civilians were killed and 30 injured after US&ndash;Israel strikes hit the Zibashahr residential area of Shiraz, a major city in southwestern Iran about 420 miles south of Tehran, the acting head of the political deputy office of the Fars Province governorate said, according to Islamic State News Agencies.



🚨 New: 20 Iranian civilians killed in U.S.&ndash;Israel strikes on residential area in Shiraz

At least 20 civilians were killed and 30 injured after U.S.&ndash;Israel strikes hit the Zibashahr residential area of Shiraz &ndash; a major city in southwestern Iran about 420 miles south of Tehran &ndash;&hellip; https://t.co/TRKWPIvfDd
&mdash; Drop Site (@DropSiteNews) March 6, 2026


Prolonged conflict preparation

US officials, including Admiral Brad Cooper, head of Central Command, confirmed that strikes from Iran have significantly diminished, with ballistic missile attacks decreasing by 90% and drone attacks down by 83%. However, Pentagon officials reaffirmed their commitment to the ongoing campaign, emphasising the availability of sufficient munitions for a sustained effort.

Global disruptions

The conflict has disrupted global markets, energy supplies, and travel. While oil prices have surged, global logistics and air transport have been heavily affected. Iran claims control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key energy chokepoint, but the US has signalled it may escort ships through the area if necessary.]]>
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			<title>President approves Sitara-e-Shujaat for civilian martyred while foiling suicide attack in Attock</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607869/president-approves-sitara-e-shujaat-for-civilian-martyred-while-foiling-suicide-attack-in-attock</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607869/president-approves-sitara-e-shujaat-for-civilian-martyred-while-foiling-suicide-attack-in-attock#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:52:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607869</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Liaquat sacrificed his life while preventing a suicide attacker from reaching a sensitive location]]>
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				<![CDATA[President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday approved the conferment of the civil award &ldquo;Sitara-e-Shujaat&rdquo; upon Liaquat Shaheed, who sacrificed his life while foiling a suicide attack in the border area between Kohat and Attock earlier this week.

According to a statement from the President&#39;s Office, the approval was granted on the recommendation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

A day earlier, both the president and the prime minister paid tribute to Liaquat Shaheed for his exemplary valour, remembering him as a shining example of national resilience, patriotism, and collective awareness in the fight against terrorism.

The president directed Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to locate the family of Shaheed Liaquat and convey the message of full national solidarity.



پاکستان ریلوے وزیرِاعظم پاکستان محمد شہباز شریف اور صدرِ مملکت آصف علی زرداری کی جانب سے شہید گینگ میٹ لیاقت علی کے لیے &ldquo;ستارۂ شجاعت&rdquo; کی بعد از شہادت منظوری پر دل کی گہرائیوں سے شکر گزار اور ممنون ہے

وزیر ریلوے نے صدرِ مملکت اور وزیرِاعظم پاکستان کا تہہ دل سے شکریہ ادا کرتے ہوئے&hellip; pic.twitter.com/88O7ce25OK
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) May 13, 2026


The prime minister said that the eternal sacrifice of Shaheed Liaquat would always be remembered, as he set a noble example of extraordinary courage, a sense of duty, and patriotism.

&ldquo;Such brave citizens are the true symbol of national resolve against terrorism. Shaheed Liaquat&rsquo;s sacrifice is a guiding light for every individual in the nation,&rdquo; he added.

Read: Civilian sacrifices life stopping suicide bomber

On Monday, Liaquat lost his life while preventing a suicide attacker from reaching a sensitive location near the inter-provincial border between Kohat and Attock.

The incident occurred near Jand and Khushal Garh Bridge, where Liaquat, a resident of Village Mankoor in Tehsil Jand, District Attock, intercepted a suspicious individual moving towards a checkpoint through agricultural fields.

Authorities said the suspect, believed to be a suicide bomber, detonated the explosives he was carrying after being confronted by Liaquat.

Both Liaquat and the attacker were killed in the blast. Officials said Liaquat&rsquo;s timely intervention prevented the attacker from reaching the target and averted a potentially devastating attack on security personnel and civilians in the area.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan receives $1.3b tranche from IMF: SBP</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607843/pakistan-receives-13b-tranche-from-imf-sbp</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607843/pakistan-receives-13b-tranche-from-imf-sbp#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 05:05:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607843</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[SBP says IMF Executive Board has also approved disbursement of second tranche of SDR 154 million under RSF]]>
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				<![CDATA[The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said on Wednesday it had received about $1.3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes, in a post on X.

The post read that, &quot;The IMF Executive Board completed third review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) in its meeting held on May 8, 2026, and approved the disbursement of SDR 760 million for Pakistan&quot;.

&quot;Furthermore, the IMF Executive Board has also approved the disbursement of the second tranche of SDR 154 million under the RSF,&quot; it added.



#SBP has received about US$1.3 billion under the IMF&rsquo;s EFF and RSF programs

The IMF Executive Board completed third review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) in its meeting held on 08 May 2026, and approved disbursement of SDR 760 million for Pakistan. Furthermore, the IMF&hellip;
&mdash; SBP (@StateBank_Pak) May 13, 2026


&quot;Accordingly, SBP has received SDR 914 million (equivalent to about US$ 1.3 billion) under the EFF and RSF in value May 12, 2026, from the IMF,&quot; SBP added in a statement.

The central bank said that &quot;the amount would be reflected in SBP&rsquo;s foreign exchange reserves for the week ending on May 15, 2026&quot;.

Read: Petroleum levy jumps 45% to Rs1.2tr

With the fresh approval, Pakistan has so far received a $4.5 billion loan from the IMF against two separate debt packages totaling $8.4 billion. Pakistan has access to another $1 billion under the Extended Fund Facility and $200 million under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility.

However, the government had to stick to the old fiscal and monetary targets and gave a commitment to stay on the path of stabilisation despite strong voices against these policies that have caused higher unemployment, higher poverty, and higher income inequality.

The government had to stick to the old fiscal and monetary targets and gave a commitment to stay on the path of stabilisation despite strong voices against these policies that have caused higher unemployment, higher poverty, and higher income inequality.

The IMF executive board also approved a modification of one end-June performance criterion, specifically the floor on net international reserves of the SBP. It also set new performance criteria for end-December 2026 and end-June 2027 for the central bank. The $1 billion debt would be used for balance of payment support, while the $200 million is given in budget support, according to government officials.

The IMF approval came after the government showed better performance against the fiscal and monetary targets, but there were divergent views about the path during the second half of this fiscal year.

The IMF mission had reviewed the performance of Pakistan&rsquo;s economy for the July-December 2025 period, covering the third review of the $7 billion bailout package.

Pakistan met all end-December 2025 quantitative performance criteria and also outperformed against the floor on net international reserves and comfortably met the general government&rsquo;s primary balance target.

Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan set for $200m IMF resilience fund

The government also met six of eight end-of-December 2025 indicative targets, but the Federal Board of Revenue remained the weakest link. It missed the targets on net tax revenues collected by the FBR and income tax revenues from retailers, which fell short of IMF targets.]]>
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			<title>Imran Khan 'loses vision' in one eye due to jail torture, alleges Salman Akram Raja</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607885/imran-khan-loses-vision-in-one-eye-due-to-jail-torture-alleges-salman-akram-raja</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607885/imran-khan-loses-vision-in-one-eye-due-to-jail-torture-alleges-salman-akram-raja#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 11:02:16 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[JAHANZAIB ABBASI]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607885</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says the party has exhausted all legal avenues and that taking to the streets is the only option left]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja on Wednesday said that jailed former prime minister Imran Khan was facing serious health risks in custody,&nbsp;claiming that, due to alleged torture in jail, he has &quot;lost vision&quot; in one of his eyes.

In February, it was revealed by a report prepared by Barrister Salman Safdar on the Supreme Court&rsquo;s direction that Imran had informed officials that his right eye was functioning at only 15% capacity. Safdar submitted the report to a two-member bench. As a result, the SC ordered that Imran be granted access to his personal physicians in Adiala Jail. Later, a medical board examining Imran reported an improvement in his eyesight and did not recommend shifting him to a hospital.

Speaking to reporters outside the SC today, Raja stated that Imran had been in jail for nearly 1,000 days and that all judicial avenues appeared to be closed for the party. He further added that the party had exhausted all legal options, and now, taking to the streets was the only option left.

He said cases against Imran and Bushra Bibi, including the Toshakhana case, were fabricated and based on statements from government witnesses.

Raja said every prisoner was entitled to constitutional rights, but meetings with Imran and the signing of legal documents were being restricted despite court orders permitting such meetings.



عمران خان صاحب سے ملاقاتوں کے حوالے سے اکتوبر ۲۰۲۵ سے سپریم کورٹ میں اپیل دائر ہے۔ ایک بار بھی سنوائی نہیں ہوئی۔ pic.twitter.com/IqJ7AQoFoX
&mdash; salman akram raja (@salmanAraja) May 13, 2026


He said Imran and Bushra Bibi were facing serious &quot;health risks in custody&quot; and added that Imran&rsquo;s sisters were also being denied meetings with him despite the seriousness of his condition.

PTI secretary general further said that petitions filed before the SC were not being heard, and added that restrictions currently imposed on prisoners were unprecedented.

Raja said Pakistan required political and economic stability, describing Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) as &ldquo;bathed in blood&rdquo; and stating that every province had been pushed into crisis.

Senior lawyer Hamid Khan said petitions were being filed in the SC seeking meetings and prison facilities for Imran and Bushra Bibi, adding that an appeal had remained pending for a year before being dismissed by the Islamabad High Court (IHC) and questioned how legal documents could be signed if lawyers were denied access to their clients.

Read: Jail rejects daughter&#39;s plea to meet Bushra

In late January, Imran was first taken to the hospital for a minor eye procedure. Five days later, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said that doctors at PIMS had conducted an examination of his eyes and, after obtaining his written consent, carried out a minor medical procedure that lasted around 20 minutes.

Amid controversy surrounding the eye treatment, PIMS confirmed that Imran was administered an anti-VEGF intra-vitreal injection to treat right central retinal vein occlusion.

In March, another medical check-up was conducted at Adiala, after which PIMS stated that Imran had shown significant improvement in his vision following his second dose of an intravitreal anti-VEGF injection. The third dose was subsequently administered on March 23.

Imran&#39;s wife, Bushra Bibi, also underwent a medical examination at Adiala in March after complaining of pain in her right eye. She was reportedly examined by Dr Muhammad Arif Khan, head of the ophthalmology department at PIMS. The medical report stated that she had been experiencing blurred vision and black spots in her right eye; she also reported seeing flashes in the dark and said she was suffering from headaches.

The examination diagnosed Bushra Bibi with posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) in her right eye. The report also identified myopia and astigmatism. After the diagnosis, Bushra Bibi was prescribed eye drops and medication, along with the use of glasses. She was reportedly recommended a follow-up medical check-up after four weeks.

The former first lady then underwent eye surgery on the evening of April 16.

Imran and Bushra Bibi remain incarcerated in Rawalpindi&#39;s Adiala Jail. They were sentenced on December 20, 2025, to 17 years in prison in the Toshakhana-II case, which pertains to allegations that the couple unlawfully retained a Bulgari jewellery set gifted by the Saudi crown prince during an official visit to Saudi Arabia.

Imran has been in custody since August 2023, serving a sentence in a &pound;190 million corruption case. He also faces pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act in connection with protests on May 9, 2023.]]>
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			<title>KSE-100 drops 1,465 points amid oil price concerns, geopolitical uncertainty</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607873/imf-driven-rally-fizzles-amid-geo-political-concerns</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607873/imf-driven-rally-fizzles-amid-geo-political-concerns#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 09:06:51 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607873</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Index touched an intra-day high of 169,687.29 points and a low of 167,329.34 points during the session]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan equities witnessed a volatile session on Wednesday as early optimism at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) gave way to selling pressure amid rising geopolitical concerns.

The benchmark KSE-100 index opened on a positive note and displayed resilience during early trading hours, but the market later turned bearish and largely directionless as investors remained cautious amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty and elevated international oil prices.

Some buying activity was observed in key sectors, including automobile assemblers, cement, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, OMCs, power generation and refinery stocks.

The initial rally was largely driven by the State Bank of Pakistan&rsquo;s announcement that it had received $1.3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes, boosting investor confidence.

However, the momentum proved short-lived as geopolitical jitters dampened market sentiment, prompting investors to resort to profit-taking and offloading positions.
The benchmark KSE-100 index touched an intra-day high of 169,687.29 points and a low of 167,329.34 points during the session. By the close of trading, the index had declined by 1,465.09 points, or 0.87%, to settle at 167,451.14 points.

Read More: PSX ends lower amid choppy trading

Ahmed Sheraz, equity trader at KTrade Securities, observed that the KSE-100 index closed at 167,451 points, down 1,465 points (-0.87% DoD), in a mixed and largely directionless session as investors remained cautious amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty and elevated international oil prices. Volumes on benchmark KSE-100 stayed muted at 208 million shares, reflecting weak participation and lack of conviction across the market.

Broader market momentum remained subdued throughout the session. Despite oil hovering near the $107-109/bbl range during trading hours, the absence of any major geopolitical escalation or diplomatic breakthrough kept sentiment uncertain and range-bound.

Selling pressure was mainly witnessed in heavyweight names, including Habib Bank, United Bank, Bank Al Habib, Lucky Cement, and Hub Power, which collectively dragged the index lower. Commercial banks, technology, and cement sectors largely closed in the red as investors preferred cautious positioning amid the uncertain macro and geopolitical backdrop.

The session lacked a strong trigger from either the news flow, fundamentals, or technical side, resulting in confused and indecisive trading activity for most of the day. Market participants largely stayed defensive while awaiting clarity on regional developments and the Iran-US situation.

Going forward, Sheraz believed the focus should remain centred on geopolitical headlines, particularly developments surrounding Donald Trump&rsquo;s China visit and broader regional security dynamics. Until clearer direction emerges, range-bound and headline-driven activity is likely to persist in the near term.

During the day, volume of traded shares dropped to 684.9million from Tuesday&rsquo;s total of 1billion as value stood at Rs21billion. Shares of 483 companies were traded. Of these, 149 climbed, 298 fell, and 36 remained unchanged. &nbsp;Agha Steel was the volume leader with trading in 58.7million shares, gaining Rs 0.43 to close at Rs 8.70.]]>
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			<title>Lavrov accuses US of seeking control over global energy, distracting from Palestine</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607883/lavrov-accuses-us-of-seeking-control-over-global-energy-distracting-from-palestine</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607883/lavrov-accuses-us-of-seeking-control-over-global-energy-distracting-from-palestine#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 10:29:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607883</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Claims US wants Russian energy bought at one-tenth the price Europeans paid]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the Trump administration of attempting to &ldquo;usurp&rdquo; influence over the global energy market on Wednesday.

Lavrov claimed Washington&rsquo;s objective was to force Russian energy firms such as Lukoil and Rosneft out of international markets as part of a broader strategy to control global energy flows.

&ldquo;The United States has adopted a series of doctrinal documents, one of which proclaims that the US must dominate global energy markets,&quot; he said in an interview with RT India. &quot;So their goal is entirely clear: they want to bring every significant energy supply route under their control.&quot;

As part of this strategy, Washington is seeking control over key energy transit routes, including the damaged Nord Stream pipelines and gas transit infrastructure through Ukraine, he argued.

Washington plans also include shaping future European energy pricing and supply arrangements, Lavrov claimed.

Also Read: US demands, rhetoric, lack of good faith obstacles to diplomacy: Iranian FM

He argued that if the Nord Stream pipelines are used again, energy prices in Europe would no longer be determined through agreements between Russia and Germany but instead by the US, which he claimed seeks greater control over European energy infrastructure and supply.

&quot;They want to purchase it at roughly one-tenth of what the Europeans paid for it,&rdquo; he said.

At the same time, Lavrov said Moscow welcomed contacts initiated by Trump and noted that communication channels between the two countries remain active, including between the Russian Foreign Ministry and the US State Department.

&ldquo;However, nothing is happening in real life. Aside from this regular dialogue &ndash; which is normal in relations between people and countries &ndash; everything else follows the pattern initiated by President (Joe) Biden,&quot; he said.

Read More: US lawmaker says Washington lost 39 aircraft in Iran war, citing defense report

Lavrov noted that sanctions introduced under the previous US administration remain in force and that additional measures targeting the Russian economy had since been adopted.

Commenting on tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Lavrov warned that instability around major maritime trade routes could severely affect global energy markets.

&quot;Europe will probably be impacted more than anyone else by the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. Beyond that, bans on Russian gas and oil imports mean switching to US liquefied natural gas, which is dramatically more expensive,&quot; he said.

&quot;The Nord Stream pipelines have been blown up. Now we are witnessing an aggression in the Strait of Hormuz. Word is out that the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait could also become a zone of confrontation, and the ensuing damage to global energy markets would be immeasurable,&quot; he said.

Distracting from Palestine

Commenting on the situation in the Middle East in an interview with RT India, Lavrov said ongoing US-provoked disputes involving Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, Greenland and Canada were distracting international attention from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

&quot;All of the efforts that are being taken right now on Venezuela, Iran, Cuba, Greenland, and now Canada ... all of these issues are moving us away from settling the most protracted, the most negative crisis in the world &ndash; that is, the crisis around Palestine,&quot; he said.

The minister criticised American proposals regarding the future of the Gaza Strip, saying they did not address the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Also Read: Oil prices slip on teetering Iran ceasefire as Trump heads to China

&quot;I have no doubt that when plans to stir up aggression against Iran were being hatched, one of the goals was to prevent the normalization of relations between Iran and the Arab states,&quot; he said.

He added: &quot;Now, everything is being done to ensure that reconciliation never happens ... and to pull its other Gulf neighbours into structures that, first, will not focus on resolving the Palestinian issue, and second, will force them to betray the Palestinian cause as the price for normalising relations with Israel.&quot;

Lavrov argued that failure to create such a state would prolong instability and extremism in the region for decades.

&ldquo;We are returning to a period when everything is decided by force and international law is ignored,&rdquo; Lavrov said.

India, Pakistan tensions

Commenting on tensions between India and Pakistan, Lavrov suggested that external actors may be contributing to fanning the disagreements, arguing that Western countries are not interested in deeper Eurasian integration within frameworks such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

&quot;The West would prefer that countries in the region remain preoccupied with disputes among themselves rather than focus on the task we discussed today &ndash; the development of Eurasian continental integration. Such integration does not align with Western interests,&quot; he said.

The foreign minister also highlighted the long-standing military-technical partnership between Russia and India. He noted that cooperation had evolved from arms sales to joint production projects, including BrahMos missiles, Kalashnikov rifles and licenced production of T-90 tanks in India.

&ldquo;India&rsquo;s defence capability is an area of our relations where we have practically no secrets from our Indian friends,&rdquo; Lavrov said.]]>
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			<title>US lawmaker says Washington lost 39 aircraft in Iran war, citing defense report</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607868/us-lawmaker-says-washington-lost-39-aircraft-in-iran-war-citing-defense-report</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607868/us-lawmaker-says-washington-lost-39-aircraft-in-iran-war-citing-defense-report#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 08:50:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607868</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[An F-35A hit inside Iranian airspace, an E-3 Sentry destroyed, the Pentagon won't confirm losses]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[US Democratic Congressman Ed Case said on Tuesday that the United States has lost 39 aircraft since the start of the war with Iran on February 28, citing a report from a US defence publication.

Case made the remarks during a special Senate committee hearing while questioning Pentagon Chief Financial Officer Jay Hurst about the extent of damage suffered during the conflict.

&ldquo;We&#39;ve lost about 39 aircraft, according to a report in The War Zone, and that&#39;s an old one that&#39;s almost one month old,&rdquo; Case said, asking Hurst whether the Pentagon had calculated &ldquo;a retention cost on all those aircraft.&rdquo;

Hurst replied: &ldquo;There are costs there, sir, but I want to get back to you in writing and what they specifically are, because, as you can imagine, repair of aircraft is something that&#39;s very hard to calculate.&rdquo; &ldquo;We want to do a full diagnosis of the aircraft before we estimate that cost,&rdquo; he added.

Also Read: Iran war to cast a shadow on BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Delhi

The report cited by Case, published by US defence news outlet The War Zone, said the US Air Force carried out nearly 13,000 flights during the conflict with Iran.

According to the report, 39 aircraft were destroyed and another 10 sustained varying levels of damage.

The report also claimed that an F-35A Lightning II fighter jet was hit inside Iranian airspace and that a Boeing E-3 Sentry aircraft was destroyed.

The claims could not be independently verified, and Pentagon officials did not publicly confirm the alleged losses during the hearing.

Regional tensions escalated after the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, triggering retaliation from Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through mediation by Pakistan, but talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement.

The truce was later extended by US President Donald Trump without a set deadline.]]>
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			<title>Trump vows to push Xi to 'open up' China at superpower summit</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607848/trump-vows-to-push-xi-to-open-up-china-at-superpower-summit</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607848/trump-vows-to-push-xi-to-open-up-china-at-superpower-summit#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 06:12:00 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607848</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Heads to Beijing with Musk and top tech CEOs in tow, seeks opening to Chinese markets]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[United States President Donald Trump said he would ask Xi Jinping to &quot;open up&quot; China to American firms as he headed to Beijing on Wednesday for a high-stakes summit that will also bring up the Iran war.

In a sign of Trump&#39;s focus on business, Nvidia chief Jensen Huang boarded Air Force One during a stopover in Alaska, with Tesla&#39;s Elon Musk also travelling on the presidential plane to China.

&quot;I will be asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to &#39;open up&#39; China so that these brilliant people can work their magic, and help bring the People&#39;s Republic to an even higher level!&quot; Trump wrote on social media after departing Washington.

A host of other top CEOs, including Apple&#39;s Tim Cook, will also be in Beijing for the visit, the first by a US president to China in nearly a decade.

Read: China&#39;s role in the Middle East

But Trump&#39;s ambitions to ramp up trade will have to contend with political frictions over Taiwan and the war in the Middle East, which already delayed the trip from March.

As he departed the White House, Trump said he expected a &quot;long talk&quot; with Xi about Iran, which sells most of its US-sanctioned oil to China. But he also downplayed disagreements, telling reporters that &quot;I don&#39;t think we need any help with Iran&quot; from China and that Xi had been &quot;relatively good&quot; on the topic.

Yet Beijing is growing impatient for peace, with China&#39;s foreign minister urging his Pakistani counterpart on Tuesday to step up mediation efforts between Iran and the US.

&#39;Big deal&#39;

This week&#39;s trip -- the first since Trump visited Beijing in 2017 -- will involve highly anticipated talks with Xi on Thursday and Friday, as well as lavish pomp and ceremony. The packed itinerary includes a state banquet in Beijing&#39;s Great Hall of the People and a tea reception.

Trump said Monday he would speak to Xi about US arms sales to Taiwan, the self-governing democracy claimed by China -- a departure from historic US insistence that it will not consult Beijing on its support to the island.

China&#39;s controls on rare earth exports, AI rivalry and the countries&#39; raucous trade relationship are also among the topics expected to be taken up by the heads of the world&#39;s top two economies.

The two sides are set to discuss extending a one-year truce in their tariff war, which Trump and Xi reached during their last meeting in South Korea in October.

The tense buildup to the superpower summit was already visible on the streets of Beijing, with police monitoring major intersections and checking the ID cards of passengers on the metro, AFP journalists saw.

&quot;It&#39;s definitely a big deal,&quot; said Wen Wen, a 24-year-old woman travelling from the eastern city of Nanjing, when asked by AFP about Trump&#39;s visit. &quot;Some progress will certainly be made,&quot; she said, noting that she hopes China and the US can ensure &quot;lasting peace&quot; despite &quot;recent instability in the global situation&quot;.

&#39;Very good relationship&#39;

The US and China have long sought to stabilise their relationship despite increasingly seeing each other as adversaries in trade and geopolitics.

Trump has repeatedly touted a strong personal relationship with Xi, which he insisted on Monday would prevent a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, the self-ruled island claimed by Beijing. &quot;I think we&#39;ll be fine. I have a very good relationship with President Xi. He knows I don&#39;t want that to happen,&quot; he said.

Read More: What the US, China want from Trump&rsquo;s Beijing visit

Trump&#39;s trip will be closely scrutinised by Taiwan and Asian allies for any sign of weakening US support.

Beijing has grown more confident and assertive since Trump&#39;s 2017 trip and the US president finds himself in a weakened position as he seeks a way out of his Iran war.

But the summit also comes at an uncertain time for China&#39;s economy, which has struggled in recent years with sluggish domestic spending and a protracted debt crisis in the once-booming property sector.]]>
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			<title>Hantavirus outbreak renews painful memories for Patagonian village</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607849/hantavirus-outbreak-renews-painful-memories-for-patagonian-village</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607849/hantavirus-outbreak-renews-painful-memories-for-patagonian-village#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 26 06:13:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607849</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Recent hantavirus outbreak on MV Hondius cruise ship, hard memories have resurfaced for 33-year-old]]>
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				<![CDATA[Mailen Valle lost her father and two sisters during a hantavirus outbreak more than seven years ago in Epuyen, a village in Argentina&#39;s Patagonia region.

With the recent hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, hard memories have resurfaced for the 33-year-old.

&quot;Losing my dad and my two sisters in less than a month...&quot; she told AFP.

Her voice broke and she laughed nervously, opting to read from a prepared statement because she knew it would be hard to speak.

&quot;Nobody was prepared to see how, in a matter of days, a family table was left empty,&quot; she said.

While the Hondius outbreak has left three people dead, it has yet to surpass the Epuyen outbreak, which recorded 34 cases and 11 fatalities between December 2018 and March 2019 in the town of 2,400 residents, situated in a part of the Andes where hantavirus is endemic.

Mailen&#39;s father, Aldo Valle, came down with it after attending a birthday party.

&quot;The person with the virus was just sitting at the same table as my dad. And at that table there were several people who got infected, and people died,&quot; Mailen recalled.

Read:&nbsp;Explainer: What is the hantavirus?

The wake for Valle was another locus of infection, where all three of his daughters got sick.

One sister died &quot;within hours&quot; of showing symptoms, while for the other, &quot;we had to take her to the cemetery without a wake,&quot; Mailen said.

Pre-Covid isolation

The variant of the hantavirus suspected in both outbreaks is transmitted through the droppings, saliva and urine of the Andean mouse.

Jorge Diaz, an epidemiologist with Chubut province&#39;s health department who worked on the Epuyen hantavirus outbreak, told AFP that &quot;we knew very little about the disease&quot; in 2018.

Human-to-human transmission of hantavirus was first discovered in 1996 in the neighboring town of El Bolson, and it was later found to have happened in Epuyen.

&quot;We implemented quarantine, which required those who made contact with a positive case to isolate for 45 days,&quot; Diaz explained.

About 100 people ended up undergoing the quarantine process in a display that would foreshadow the Covid-19 pandemic that broke out a year later.

The approach, dubbed &quot;selective isolation,&quot; marked a shift in the epidemiological response, and now &quot;each time there is a case of (Andes) hantavirus, isolation is ordered or recommended.&quot;

One thing after another

Residents in Patagonia know how to protect themselves from the virus, which they refer to as &quot;the hanta,&quot; by airing out sheds and cleaning areas with bleach.

But the human transmission of the Epuyen outbreak changed the scale of the fight, as one could get infected from their neighbor just as easily as from an Andean mouse.

Mailen remembers the stigma. &quot;We felt very discriminated against,&quot; she said.

Others recall being banned from shops in nearby towns.

Isabel Diaz, 53, survived the outbreak with a different stigma -- her father, Victor Diaz, was labeled &quot;patient zero,&quot; and attended the birthday party while displaying the early symptoms of hantavirus.

&quot;People looked poorly at my father. It&#39;s not his fault he got sick,&quot; she told AFP, her eyes welling up.
&quot;Nobody chooses to get sick, much less infect others, much less lose a mother.&quot;

Isabel got sick from her father&#39;s hantavirus case, as well as her mother. &quot;She was the sixth patient&quot; of the eleven who died, she said.
Her father, for his part, recalled how it felt to come down with hantavirus, causing body aches and a bitter taste that even made sipping water unpleasant.

&quot;It started with a feeling of weakness. I didn&#39;t feel like eating. And I started to get purple spots,&quot; he said. &quot;That same day, I lost consciousness.&quot;
In the years since the hantavirus outbreak, Epuyen has endured the COVID-19 pandemic and major wildfires in 2025 and 2026, permanently changing the landscape.

&quot;It&#39;s one thing after another,&quot; Victor said.

&quot;No one is going to tell us what it means to live life and keep moving forward,&quot; Isabel Diaz added.]]>
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			<title>PTCL warns of internet disruption during evenings from May 11-18</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607318/ptcl-warns-of-internet-disruption-during-evenings-from-may-11-18</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607318/ptcl-warns-of-internet-disruption-during-evenings-from-may-11-18#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 10 May 26 11:06:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Company says maintenance activity is planned on one of its submarine cables to repair fault]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) announced on Sunday that customers may face internet service degradation during the evenings from May 11-18.

In a post on X, the company said that maintenance activity was planned on one of its submarine cables to repair a fault by the International Cable Consortium.

&quot;Due to this maintenance, which will begin from tomorrow (Monday) and which can last for seven days, customers may have to face disruption in their internet service,&quot; it stated.



Important Notice 📢 pic.twitter.com/gPJBEI9toH
&mdash; PTCL (@PTCLOfficial) May 10, 2026


Last month, the telecommunications company posted a similar notice to X, stating that maintenance activity was planned on one of its submarine cables to repair a fault by the consortium.

This activity, which was to start on April 14, 2026, was to potentially last until April 20, 2026. Saying that customers may face internet service disruptions during the period, PTCL had expressed its regret for the inconvenience.



Important Notice 📢 pic.twitter.com/KHvBfrbQfe
&mdash; PTCL (@PTCLOfficial) April 13, 2026


PTCL had posted a net loss of over Rs10.46 billion in FY2025 despite earning revenue of Rs168.80 billion, while its total assets stood at Rs485.23 billion, the finance ministry reported in February this year.

Read: Five PTCL employees abducted in Bannu

According to the finance ministry&#39;s Central Monitoring Unit, the telecommunications company reported losses of Rs6.63 billion in FY2023-24, while a year earlier, in 2022-23, the company incurred a loss of Rs15.54 billion.

The company, which had recorded a profit of Rs28 billion in 2005-05, the year in which management control had been sold to United Arab Emirates-based telecom operator Etisalat, the profitability of the company continued to decline in subsequent years, eventually turning negative.

However, last month, it was reported that PTCL returned to profit following the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan. The company had also announced that it would formally launch Fifth Generation (5G) telecom services in May.]]>
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			<title>NDMA raises red flag over powerful storm system expected across multiple regions</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607341/ndma-raises-red-flag-over-powerful-storm-system-expected-across-multiple-regions</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607341/ndma-raises-red-flag-over-powerful-storm-system-expected-across-multiple-regions#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 10 May 26 15:44:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says current weather matches NEOC's climate assessment issued months earlier]]>
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				<![CDATA[The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday issued a nationwide weather alert, warning that several parts of Pakistan were likely to experience heavy rain, windstorms, thunderstorms and hailstorms during the next 12 to 24 hours due to prevailing weather conditions already predicted in its seasonal outlook.

According to the NDMA&rsquo;s Media Wing, the current weather pattern was fully consistent with the NEOC&rsquo;s earlier climate assessment issued three to four months ago for the April-to-June period.

The authority said Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir were expected to receive widespread rainfall accompanied by strong winds and hail at isolated locations.

The alert stated that heavy rain and thunderstorms were expected in Islamabad, Murree, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Talagang, Gujar Khan, Jhelum, Sialkot, Narowal, Layyah, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Lahore, Kasur, Mianwali, Sargodha, Jhang and Multan.

In G-B and Azad Kashmir, rainfall with thunderstorm activity was expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Ghanche, Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Shigar, Kharmang, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Haveli, Poonch, Rawalakot, Kotli, Mirpur and Bhimber.

Read More: Pakistan&#39;s climate crisis has a degree problem

The NEOC also forecast strong winds and thunderstorms in several districts of K-P, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Mingora, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Nowshera, Peshawar, Mardan, Bajaur, Charsadda, Kohat, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank and Dera Ismail Khan, with hailstorms likely at some locations.

The NDMA warned that rising temperatures could accelerate glacier and snow melting in northern regions, increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), flash floods and landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas.

Citizens were advised to avoid visiting glacial lakes and dangerous slopes, while travellers were urged to exercise caution as adverse weather could disrupt movement in hilly regions. The authority also warned that strong winds and hailstorms may damage weak structures, solar panels and vehicles.

The NDMA urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions, stay in safe locations during windstorms and follow instructions issued by local administrations and weather advisory authorities.

The authority further directed all relevant departments and emergency response agencies to remain on high alert and ensure advance preparedness measures to deal with any potential emergency situation.]]>
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			<title>Interior ministry rejects reports of Pakistanis being deported from UAE</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607028/interior-ministry-rejects-reports-of-pakistanis-being-deported-from-uae</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2607028/interior-ministry-rejects-reports-of-pakistanis-being-deported-from-uae#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 08 May 26 13:12:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2607028</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Govt says no country- or sect-specific deportations are being carried out from the UAE under routine laws]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Ministry of Interior on Friday dismissed reports&nbsp;regarding alleged targeted deportations of Pakistani nationals from the United Arab Emirates, describing such claims as &ldquo;malafide&rdquo; and part of a &ldquo;vicious propaganda&rdquo; campaign.

The issue first surfaced last month when some social media accounts claimed that around 1,200 Pakistanis had been deported from the UAE over visa-related issues and alleged legal violations in the aftermath of the regional crisis that erupted after the US-Iran war. A report published by The New York Times&nbsp;earlier today claimed that the UAE had initiated a large-scale expulsion of Pakistani workers.

The report said it interviewed 20 Pakistani Shias, including eight businessmen based in the Emirates, who alleged that their Pakistani employees had been deported in recent weeks. According to the report, the deportations came amid &quot;perceived Emirati displeasure over Pakistan&rsquo;s response to Iranian strikes&quot; on the Gulf state while Islamabad was attempting to broker a peace agreement between the US and Iran.&nbsp;

In a statement issued today, the interior ministry said it had reviewed the relevant details and data and found the reports to be fabricated and misleading.

&ldquo;No country or sect-specific deportations from any country, including the UAE, are being carried out,&rdquo; the statement said.



Ministry of Interior has taken notice of speculative reporting in sections of media especially social media about targeted deportations of Pakistani nationals from brotherly Islamic country of UAE.
&mdash; Ministry of Interior GoP (@MOIofficialGoP) May 8, 2026


The ministry clarified that deportations, where they occurred, were part of a routine process undertaken in accordance with the host country&rsquo;s regulations and legal system, including cases involving violations of laws, overstaying&nbsp;or illegal documentation.

It further stated that Pakistani nationals who fulfilled the visa and work-related requirements of host countries continued to travel to and obtain employment visas for the UAE and other friendly countries &ldquo;without prejudice&rdquo;.

The ministry said the &ldquo;fake news&rdquo; and social media posts suggesting otherwise were &ldquo;malicious and fabricated&rdquo; and aimed at serving &ldquo;ulterior motives&rdquo;.

It added that any matter involving a Pakistani national abroad is addressed on a case-by-case basis with the relevant country through established Foreign Office (FO) channels.

Meanwhile, when asked about the issue during the weekly press briefing, the Foreign Office spokesperson said he was not aware of the development.

Pressed again on the matter, he had said that Pakistan&#39;s missions&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi and Dubai were actively managing individual consular cases brought to their attention by community members or by applicants directly.

He said the deportations were related to&nbsp;immigration status violations,&nbsp;legal infractions&nbsp;and repatriation.

&quot;I do not see any political reason for their deportation. These are primarily legal cases, which are being taken care of, both by our diplomatic missions in UAE as well as by the UAE authorities,&quot; the FO spokesperson had said.]]>
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			<title>PMD issues another heatwave alert for Sindh, warns mercury may climb to 49°C</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606644/pmd-issues-another-heatwave-alert-for-sindh-says-temperatures-may-climb-to-490c</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606644/pmd-issues-another-heatwave-alert-for-sindh-says-temperatures-may-climb-to-490c#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 06 May 26 11:37:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Aftab Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2606644</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Advised children, women and elderly people to take precautionary measures]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Wednesday issued another heatwave alert for Sindh, warning that temperatures may rise up to 49&deg;C.

According to the PMD, the current wave would affect central and upper Sindh from May 7 (tomorrow) until May 11.

&quot;Districts including Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Jacobabad, Larkana, and Sukkur will experience severe heat conditions. Temperatures in these areas may rise to between 47&deg;C and 49&deg;C during the heatwave period,&quot; it said.

The Met Office advised children, women, and elderly people to take precautionary measures. It further recommended that people avoid going outdoors during peak daytime hours and increase water intake to stay hydrated.

The PMD also issued a weekly weather outlook warning of a persistent heatwave across several parts of the country from May 6 to 12. According to the forecast, most plain areas of Pakistan are expected to remain under hot and dry conditions during this period.



Weekly Weather Outlook (06-12 May, 2026):#PakistanWeather #HeatwaveAlert #PMDUpdate #WeatherForecast #ClimateUpdate #گرمی #ہیٹ_ویو #پاکستان_موسم #محکمہ_موسمیات #موسمی_پیشگوئی pic.twitter.com/hjtzdKUc60
&mdash; Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) May 6, 2026


The Met Office said that daytime temperatures in central and southern regions were likely to remain significantly above normal, with some areas experiencing a rise of 2&deg;C to 6&deg;C above seasonal averages.

Read: PMD forecasts hot, humid spell in Karachi with slight temperature drop

It added that southern Punjab, Sindh, and parts of Balochistan were expected to remain among the worst-affected regions, where intense heat conditions would continue during daytime hours. PMD further said that the ongoing heatwave conditions were expected to persist through the forecast period, with no immediate relief in sight.

On Monday, Karachi recorded its hottest day since 2018, as the temperature in the city surged past 44&deg;C. The highest temperature was recorded at the Old Airport Weather Station, where it reached 44.1&deg;C.

Due to the intense heat, at least ten bodies were recovered from different parts of the city.

Shahid Chaudhry, spokesperson for Chhipa Foundation, said that four of the deceased were found in critical condition and died during treatment, while the bodies of six others were recovered from homes, mosques, and other locations across the city.]]>
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			<title>Islamabad administration revises business timings under austerity measures</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606517/islamabad-administration-revises-business-timings-under-austerity-measures</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606517/islamabad-administration-revises-business-timings-under-austerity-measures#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 26 18:47:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2606517</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Markets, malls to close at 8pm, eateries by 10pm under revised timings]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The capital administration on Tuesday issued a revised notification regarding closing times for markets, businesses, and commercial activities in light of ongoing austerity measures.

According to a notification issued by the office of Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, all shops, markets, and shopping malls would close at 8pm throughout the week, including Saturdays and Sundays.

The notification said that pharmacies, medical stores, medical supply stores, medical laboratories, hospitals, petrol pumps, CNG stations and milk and dairy shops were exempt from the restriction.



The Office of the District Magistrate, ICT Islamabad has issued a notification regarding revised closing timings for markets, businesses, and commercial activities in light of ongoing austerity measures.

Shops, Markets &amp; Shopping Malls
All will close at 08:00 PM throughout the&hellip; pic.twitter.com/8sa8MJ9X8i
&mdash; DC Islamabad (@dcislamabad) May 5, 2026


It added that restaurants and food outlets, tandoors, grocery stores, meat shops, fruit and dry fruit shops, vegetable vendors, and bakeries would close at 10pm.

However, it stated that &ldquo;there shall be no restriction on takeaway and home delivery services&rdquo;.

The notification further said that marriage halls, marquees, and other commercial venues hosting events would close at 10pm throughout the week, including functions held at private premises.

&ldquo;This order will come into effect from May 5 and shall remain in force till further orders,&rdquo; it added.

The government in March announced austerity measures across the country due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which disrupted supply chains and pushed crude oil prices to a two-year high.

Both federal and provincial governments have since introduced a range of measures, including an additional weekly holiday, cuts in free petrol allocations for ministers, limits on protocol vehicles, and proposals for subsidised fuel for students.

The federal government has also urged the public to adopt austerity measures in daily life and cooperate with authorities in conserving energy amid the fuel crisis triggered by the conflict in the Middle East.]]>
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