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			<title>PM Shehbaz reaffirms readiness to play ‘constructive role’ for regional peace in meeting with Pezeshkian</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631131/iranian-fm-spokesperson-rebukes-canadian-pm-for-calling-annihilation-threat-language-of-war</link>
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			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 04:51:05 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631131</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Premier meets Iranian President on sidelines of UNGA, discuss regional tensions and ways to deepen cooperation]]>
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				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s readiness to continue playing a &ldquo;sincere and constructive role&rdquo; in support of regional peace during a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The meeting took place a day before the premier is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Friday.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office, the two leaders reaffirmed the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and Iran and underscored the need to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across all areas of mutual interest.



Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with the President of Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian today, on the sidelines of the 81st Session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq&hellip; pic.twitter.com/BHkCwC2QNI
&mdash; Prime Minister&#39;s Office (@PakPMO) September 24, 2026



&ldquo;Both leaders also exchanged views on the evolving regional situation,&rdquo; the statement said.

The prime minister expressed deep concern over the prolonged conflict and emphasised the need for restraint, de-escalation and sustained diplomatic engagement to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s readiness to continue playing a sincere and constructive role in support of regional peace and stability, while underscoring the importance of building on and implementing the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.

&ldquo;President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s principled diplomacy and concerted efforts for regional peace and security,&rdquo; the statement said.

The Iranian president also underscored the enduring strength of Pakistan-Iran relations, rooted in shared history, culture and faith, and reaffirmed Tehran&rsquo;s strong desire to further deepen multifaceted cooperation.

The two sides agreed to work for regional peace, security and prosperity, while underlining the importance of maintaining regular consultations and close coordination to address prevailing challenges and seize opportunities, the statement added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, SAPM Tariq Fatemi and senior officials from both sides were also present.

Saudi Aramco chief says disrupted oil operations can be restored &#39;within days&#39;

The chief executive of Saudi oil giant Aramco, Amin Nasser, told Nikkei Asia on Thursday that the company could restore disrupted oil operations within days and was seeking to build alternative export routes, as it faces increasing attacks from Yemen&#39;s Houthi group.

According to Nikkei Asia, Aramco was studying &quot;a fourth and a fifth route&quot; for crude oil exports in addition to its three primary ones.



Saudi Aramco chief says any interruption can be fixed &#39;within days&#39;https://t.co/Evp4PKdtvB pic.twitter.com/Y0wHBI6MWA
&mdash; Nikkei Asia (@NikkeiAsia) September 24, 2026


Six Houthi ballistic missiles launched at Taif, Yanbu intercepted: Saudi coalition

The Saudi-led coalition in conflict with Yemen&rsquo;s Houthis said on Thursday that its forces intercepted six ballistic missiles fired by the group, thwarting attacks on the Saudi cities of Taif and Yanbu.

&ldquo;Escalations and violations by the terrorist Houthi militia will be dealt with firmly,&rdquo; said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki in a series of posts on X.



المتحدث الرسمي باسم قوات التحالف السعودي اللواء الركن تركي المالكي: اعتراض وتدمير 6 صواريخ باليستية أطلقتها الميليشيا الحوثية الإرهابية

&bull; اعتراضات الدفاعات الجوية أحبطت محاولة استهداف الطائف وينبع

&bull; تصعيد وانتهاكات الميليشيا الحوثية الإرهابية سيتم التعامل معها بحزم pic.twitter.com/tptmZZL1gJ
&mdash; كويت نيوز (@KuwaitNews) September 24, 2026


Greek security sources told ​Reuters that an air defence system operated by Greek military personnel in Saudi Arabia ​intercepted a ballistic missile and a drone in the wider Yanbu region.

&quot;Both were shot down,&quot; one of the sources said, adding ​that the Greek Patriot system launched two ​missiles but not giving details on the origin of the &zwnj;drone ⁠and the ballistic missile.

A second source confirmed the information.

It was the fifth time the Greek-operated system had been used in combat since ​the US ​and Israel ⁠launched their war with Iran at the end of February, underscoring ​the widening military role of European ​allies ⁠in defending Gulf energy infrastructure.

Since 2021, Greece has deployed a US-made Patriot air defence battery operated ⁠by ​Greek personnel in Saudi ​Arabia, under an agreement to help protect the kingdom&#39;s energy ​facilities.

Earlier, Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Civil Defence said the danger had passed in Makkah, Taif, and the northwestern region of Tabuk, following earlier emergency warnings for those areas, as well as Jeddah and Yanbu.

In separate all-clear notices, the agency urged residents to continue following its instructions and to avoid gathering or filming.

Makkah, Taif and Jeddah are in western Saudi Arabia. Yanbu is a Red Sea port city farther north, while Tabuk is in the kingdom&rsquo;s northwest.

The Civil Defence had issued warnings through the national early warning platform about a &ldquo;potential danger.&rdquo; The notices did not specify the threat or report casualties or damage.

Saudi Arabia has faced a series of missile and drone attacks attributed to the Houthis in recent days.

Iran may expand war to Indian Ocean if US attacks again: supreme leader&#39;s adviser 

Iran may expand the Middle East war to the Indian Ocean if the US or Israel attacks again, said an adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

&ldquo;We do not know what is going on in the minds of (US President) Trump and (Israeli Premier) Netanyahu,&rdquo; Safavi said.

He said Iranian forces had prepared for the worst-case scenarios in the event of further US or Israeli attacks on the country&rsquo;s facilities or national interests. In that event, he warned, the scope of the conflict would widen.

&ldquo;Now that the war has spread from the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in the next stage of a potential war with the US, this front could expand further, to the Indian Ocean or elsewhere,&rdquo; he said.

Iran misreading US political system by waiting for midterms: Rubio

Iran is misreading the US political system if it believes the November midterm elections could restrict President Donald Trump&rsquo;s ability to act against Tehran, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday.

&ldquo;I think the Iranians are under this illusion that Democrats are going to win in November, and the president will no longer be able to do things against them,&rdquo; Rubio told reporters in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

Rubio said Tehran appeared not to understand the division of powers in the US, arguing that while Congress plays an important role, the president retains extensive authority over national security matters.

&ldquo;When it comes to the national security of our country, when it comes to the imposition of both sanctions and the use of military force, the president has extraordinary powers,&rdquo; he said, pointing to Trump&rsquo;s constitutional role as commander-in-chief.

His remarks came one day after Trump said he believed Washington would reach an agreement with Iran following the Nov. 3 midterm elections.

&ldquo;I believe we&rsquo;ll make a deal right after the election because it doesn&rsquo;t make sense for them not to,&rdquo; Trump told the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, claiming Iranian leaders were waiting to see how his Republican Party performed in the vote.

Rubio said the outcome of the elections would not change Trump&rsquo;s approach, describing Iran&rsquo;s nuclear program as a national security issue rather than a matter of domestic politics.

&ldquo;For him, the Iranian issue is not a political issue,&rdquo; he said.

Rubio argued that US presidents and most countries had agreed for nearly five decades that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon but had repeatedly failed to take sufficient action.

Trump, he said, was prepared to act despite the associated costs because the consequences of failing to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran would be &ldquo;substantially higher,&rdquo; particularly for future generations.

Iran cancels all flights to United Arab Emirates

All flights operated by Iranian airlines to the United Arab Emirates have been cancelled since midnight, the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) reported Thursday, citing a spokesman for Iran&rsquo;s Civil Aviation Organisation.

It also reported that a Tehran-Dushanbe flight was forced to return to Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran after Turkmenistan did not grant permission for Iranian airlines to fly through its airspace.

The spokesman said the flight was unable to land at its destination because Turkmenistan had not issued permission for Iranian airlines to cross its airspace, forcing it to return to Tehran.

Iran has seen inaction, not neutrality from some countries during war: Pezeshkian

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told European Council President Antonio Costa on Wednesday that inaction, rather than neutrality, was seen from some countries during the recent war, calling on European states to reconsider their approach and maintain greater independence, according to IRNA.

Meeting on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Pezeshkian said European countries deprived themselves of a role in international developments by aligning with hostile US actions.



Iran saw inaction, not neutrality, during recent war: @drpezeshkian https://t.co/ZeqQS6PY9a pic.twitter.com/KmgkE6VcVu
&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) September 24, 2026


He criticised Europe&rsquo;s approach to the snapback mechanism and the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying European governments&rsquo; positions reduced their ability to influence international developments. He also referred to comments by the NATO secretary general about European countries&rsquo; assistance to the United States during the war and called for a reassessment of European policies.

Pezeshkian said regional security should be the responsibility of countries in the region, stressing that Western intervention has adversely affected security beyond the region.

Costa called for a European role in addressing regional issues, while Pezeshkian said Europe&rsquo;s alignment with Washington had limited its ability to play such a role.

In a separate message carried by ISNA and Al Mayadeen, Pezeshkian said that Tehran used its appearance at the UN General Assembly to defend Iran&rsquo;s position and respond to US policies, revealing that he moved away from his prepared remarks after hearing US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s speech.

&ldquo;We had prepared a text in advance for the UN General Assembly, but after listening to Trump&rsquo;s speech, we departed from the prepared text to express the realities being imposed by the United States,&rdquo; Pezeshkian said.



Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Thursday that Tehran used its appearance at the UN General Assembly to defend Iran&rsquo;s position and respond to US policies, revealing that he departed from his prepared remarks after hearing US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s speech.

&ldquo;We had&hellip; pic.twitter.com/JfpJWI4jPn
&mdash; Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) September 24, 2026


He accused Washington of acting &ldquo;in violation of laws and humanitarian frameworks,&rdquo; adding that it does &ldquo;nothing but use force and commit acts against humanity.&rdquo;



پزشکیان: در مجمع عمومی سازمان ملل از حقانیت ملت ایران دفاع کردم
-ملت ریشه&zwnj;دار و متمدن ایران نابود شدنی نیست ۱/۲ pic.twitter.com/axmvyjzLqJ
&mdash; خبرگزاری ایسنا (@isna_farsi) September 24, 2026


He also rejected attempts to pressure Iran, saying, &ldquo;They cannot eliminate Iran. Iran is a country deeply rooted in history, and despite all the pressure they exert, our people remain steadfast.&rdquo;

&quot;We tried to express the realities that America imposes on our nation and the world.&quot;

Iranian FM spokesperson rebukes Canadian PM for calling &lsquo;annihilation&rsquo; threat &lsquo;language of war&rsquo; 

Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Thursday criticised Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for &ldquo;reframing a threat to &#39;annihilate&#39; Iran as merely &#39;speaking the language of war&#39;&rdquo;.

Baghaei on X said that &ldquo;Mark Carney must understand that time is too ruthless to let the shelter of illusion and hypocrisy endure forever.&rdquo; He has added that &ldquo;those who sought refuge in the long shadow of American bullying&rdquo; would eventually learn that &ldquo;averting their eyes from reality and bartering away their dignity and self-respect buys no salvation.&rdquo;



To the Canadian Prime Minister who, instead of condemning U.S. blatant aggression and warmongering, chose to appease Washington by reframing a threat to &quot;annihilate&quot; Iran as merely &quot;speaking the language of war&quot;:

Mark Carney must understand that time is too ruthless to let the&hellip; pic.twitter.com/87XRoT8cjc
&mdash; Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) September 24, 2026


He also stated that &ldquo;they will see that the nation they once conspired with empires to crush was the solitary guardian of a sacred flame&rdquo; which &quot;kept a torch burning&quot; against coercion, &quot;a torch that, if allowed to die, would leave humanity with nothing but the cold embrace of naked force, burying the civilised and humane altars of reason beneath the brutal logic of might.&quot;

US Treasury Secretary questions how Iran&rsquo;s UN delegation will get home as sanctions disrupt flights

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that he wondered how the Iranian delegation to the UN General Assembly in New York would return home as American sanctions continued to squeeze the country&rsquo;s international airline operations.

&ldquo;In terms of Operation Economic Outcast, we are squeezing the Iranians like they&#39;ve never seen today,&rdquo; he said.

He said the campaign was affecting Iran&#39;s international air links, claiming that more than 80% to 90% of external flights from Iran had been shut down.

Bessent also warned financial institutions, companies and other businesses supporting Iran that Washington would target their operations and bank accounts.

&quot;We have made it very clear around the world, whether it&#39;s the financiers, the people who are doing business, the people who are supplying the Iranians, we know who you are, you know who you are,&quot; he said.

He described the US strategy as a combination of military action, a naval blockade and financial pressure.

&quot;So we had six weeks of kinetic activity. We have the blockade. And now we have an effort never seen before in terms of constricting and cutting off the financial oxygen to them,&quot; he said.

He said Washington&#39;s pressure campaign could continue for weeks or months, adding that the US was seeking one of three possible outcomes: divisions within the Iranian leadership, an uprising by the Iranian population, or an agreement under which Tehran would comply with its commitments.

Bessent also said the US had attempted to reach an agreement with Iran earlier in the year but accused Tehran of subsequently escalating attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

&quot;If there is a deal, I guarantee you they&#39;re going to stick with it,&quot; he said.

Yemeni government forces stop Houthi attack near key southern provinces

The Yemeni government&rsquo;s armed forces thwarted an attack and infiltration attempts by the Houthis aiming to reach positions near the road linking the southern and southwestern provinces of Aden, Taiz and Lahj, the Ministry of Defence has said in a statement, Al Jazeera reported.



BREAKING: Yemeni government forces thwart Houthi attack near key southern provinces

🔴 LIVE updates: https://t.co/yIoLRqH3fa pic.twitter.com/GP4Oefje3j
&mdash; Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) September 24, 2026


According to the official spokesperson of the Yemeni armed forces, &ldquo;clashes ensued&rdquo;, which forced &ldquo;the attackers to retreat&rdquo; and inflicted heavy losses in lives and equipment.

Read: Iran says it conveyed conditions for reviving diplomacy with US through Qatar

&ldquo;We affirm that our armed forces stationed on those fronts have regained the initiative, are highly prepared, and continue to repel attacks and infiltration attempts,&rdquo; the spokesperson has said.

Shipping traffic via Strait of Hormuz stays lower than 10-day average, data shows

Ten commodity vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, up from seven a day earlier and below the 10-day moving average of about 17, preliminary shipping data showed on Thursday.

Nine vessels entered the strait, including Supramax ships carrying metals, grain and other dry bulk cargoes, as well as an empty very large gas carrier. One Supramax carrying fertiliser exited, according to the data, as of 0923 PKT on Thursday.

The figures exclude any vessels that might have crossed the strait with their transponders turned off to avoid detection.

Before the US-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28, the strait typically handled about 125 large, commercial vessels a day, including tankers, gas carriers, bulkers and container vessels, accounting for some 20% of the world&rsquo;s daily crude oil and liquefied natural gas supply.

Read more: US president open to making a deal with Iran: Rubio

Iran and the US remain far apart on how to end the war, but diplomacy must continue, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday, after Iran&#39;s president told the United Nations General Assembly that Tehran would never surrender to US pressure.

The senior Iranian official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Tehran was reviewing Washington&#39;s response to its peace proposals, which prioritise lifting a US naval blockade on Iranian ports and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

In the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, 27 commodity vessels transited the waterway on Wednesday, up from 24 the day before and compared with an average of 26 ships using the strait over the past 10 days.

EU&#39;s Costa urges Iran to resume cooperation with IAEA

European Council President Antonio Costa said on Wednesday he spoke with Iran&#39;s President Masoud Pezeshkian and urged Iran to resume its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Costa also called for an end to Iran&#39;s strikes against its neighbours and the full restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump should press Xi to stop support for Iran, Democratic senator says

US Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen said on Wednesday President Donald Trump should press Chinese President Xi Jinping at a summit this week over China&#39;s support for Iran, saying that Chinese firms were helping Tehran economically and militarily.

In a Senate speech, Shaheen cited reports that Iran obtained high-resolution satellite imagery of a base in Jordan from Chinese entities before launching a missile attack that killed three American soldiers and wounded four others.

She noted that about 90% of Iran&#39;s oil exports go to China and provided it with &quot;billions of dollars of revenue&quot; and a &quot;critical economic lifeline.&quot;

Shaheen said Chinese and Hong Kong companies had also supplied components used in Iranian ballistic missiles and drones

She urged Trump to &quot;use his leverage&quot; with Xi to stop Chinese firms from providing satellite imagery, missile and drone parts and access to markets for sanctioned Iranian oil.

&quot;If we want to bring this war to an end, we need to cut off the outside support that allows Iran to keep fighting, and that starts with China,&quot; she said.

Shaheen said the administration should enforce sanctions against Chinese entities helping Iran, &quot;and if China doesn&#39;t stop, Congress should impose additional consequences.&quot;

She said Trump should also consider using authorities in recently enacted Russian sanctions legislation against Chinese purchasers of Russian energy, arguing that China was &quot;the top funder of the war in Ukraine, as well as being one of the top funders of the war in Iran.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Pakistan carries out strikes on 10 Afghan locations after drone attacks: Attaullah Tarar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631132/pakistan-carries-out-strikes-on-10-afghan-sites-after-drone-attack-attaullah-tarar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631132/pakistan-carries-out-strikes-on-10-afghan-sites-after-drone-attack-attaullah-tarar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 05:10:13 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Says Pakistan, in exercise of sovereign right to self-defence, conducted 'precision aerial' strikes on drone sites]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan carried out &quot;precision&quot; aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan after drones launched from Afghan territory entered Pakistani airspace, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said in the early hours of Thursday, describing the strikes as a response to a &ldquo;deliberate and unlawful incursion&rdquo;.

&quot;In exercise of its sovereign right to self-defence, Pakistan conducted precision aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan used for launching and storing these drones. The strikes were deliberate, precise, calibrated and proportionate and strictly limited to identified military objectives directly linked to the attempted attacks against Pakistan,&quot; said Tarar in a post on X.

The strikes were in response to drone attacks from Afghanistan. A day earlier, Pakistan&rsquo;s air defence systems had shot down eight drones after they entered the country&rsquo;s airspace from Afghanistan. Security sources said four of the drones were brought down in areas adjoining the Torkham border, while another four were shot down in mountainous areas near the border with Kohat.

Tarar said the drone incursion on September 23 was a &ldquo;blatant violation&rdquo; of Pakistan&rsquo;s sovereignty and territorial integrity and a &ldquo;grave and unacceptable act of aggression&rdquo;.

&ldquo;Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the deliberate and unlawful incursion into Pakistan by drones on September 23, launched from Afghan territory,&rdquo; he said.

The minister said that Pakistan&rsquo;s Air Defence systems detected, tracked and neutralised all intruding platforms before they could reach any of their intended targets, comprehensively thwarting the attempted attack.

The minister said Pakistan for years had repeatedly conveyed its concerns to the Afghan Taliban regime and its interlocutors over the continued presence of terrorist sanctuaries and support networks on Afghan soil.

&ldquo;Instead of dismantling these networks and taking credible and verifiable action against those using Afghan territory to perpetrate terrorism against Pakistan, the Afghan Taliban regime has chosen to escalate the situation through hostile drone operations against Pakistan,&rdquo; he said.



Update-Ghazab lil Haq

Islamabad, 24 September 2026;

Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the deliberate and unlawful incursion into Pakistan by drones on 23 September 2026, launched from Afghan territory. This constitutes a blatant violation of Pakistan&rsquo;s&hellip;
&mdash; Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) September 24, 2026


Tarar warned that Pakistan would not tolerate attacks launched from Afghan territory, &quot;whether by terrorist groups or by the Afghan Taliban regime itself.&quot;

&ldquo;Any violation of Pakistan&rsquo;s sovereignty will be met with an immediate and decisive response,&rdquo; he added.

Read: Eight drones shot down after entering Pakistan from Afghanistan: security sources

He called on the Afghan Taliban regime to immediately cease all hostile activity against Pakistan and take effective, concrete, verifiable and sustained action against terrorist entities operating from Afghan soil.

&ldquo;Afghan territory must not be used to launch attacks or conduct hostile operations against Pakistan,&rdquo; Tarar said. He added that Pakistan did not seek escalation and remained committed to &ldquo;regional peace, dialogue and constructive engagement&rdquo;.

&ldquo;This commitment must not be mistaken for weakness or an unlimited tolerance of hostile actions,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Pakistan will defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and the lives of its citizens with full resolve and will take all necessary measures to protect them,&rdquo; Tarar added.

In a separate post, Tarar said, &ldquo;Through precise aerial and drone strikes, as seen in the attached clip, terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure, including drone launching and storage sites across 10 locations in areas under the control of the Afghan Taliban regime, were comprehensively destroyed,&rdquo; Tarar said.

&ldquo;Pakistan will continue to defend its territorial integrity and protect the lives and property of its citizens against any externally sponsored, sheltered and abetted threat by terrorist proxies,&rdquo; he added.



Update-Ghazab lil Haq

Islamabad, 24 September 2026;

Through precise aerial and drone strikes as seen in attached clip, terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure including drone launching and storage sites across 10 locations in areas under the control of Afghan Taliban&hellip; pic.twitter.com/6CrgV4SzSw
&mdash; Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) September 24, 2026


8 drones shot down in K-P

The recent tension started between the neighbouring countries after a blast at a mosque in Kohat&rsquo;s Police Lines during Friday prayers, in which 23 people, including 15 police personnel, were martyred. Eight terrorists were also killed during a subsequent search and clearance operation. Later, Ittihadul Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), led by Afghanistan-based Hafiz Gul Bahadur, claimed responsibility for the deadly bombing and rampage involving multiple attackers.

A day later, a captain and a lieutenant were among six martyred during an exchange of fire in Hangu district. Following a series of deadly attacks in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), on September 21, Pakistan carried out &ldquo;calibrated&rdquo; air strikes against terrorist hideouts near the Afghan border and conducted intelligence-based ground operations that killed a total of 37 terrorists.

Read More: Pakistan carries out &#39;calibrated&#39; air strikes against terrorist hideouts

Security forces conducted an intelligence-based ground operation against a group of terrorists in Kohat and Hangu districts. &quot;As a result of precise and skilful engagement, nine khwarij belonging to the Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij were sent to hell, while several were injured.&quot;

The statement said three targets were destroyed in precision strikes, including a training centre for suicide bombers. It said 28 terrorists, along with several suicide bombers, were killed, while large quantities of weapons and ammunition stored at the centres and hideouts were also destroyed.

Previous drone strikes 

Pakistan had reported previous incidents involving drones crossing from Afghanistan into its airspace.

On July 1, security forces had shot down four &ldquo;rudimentary drones&rdquo; launched from Afghanistan into Balochistan on June 30. The military accused the Afghan Taliban regime of supporting terrorist groups operating from territory under its control and warned that further cross-border provocations would draw a strong response.

In March, armed forces intercepted a few rudimentary drones launched by the Afghan Taliban in what officials described as a failed attempt to harass civilian populations, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations.

The military&rsquo;s media wing said the drones were detected and neutralised through a combination of defensive measures before they could reach their intended targets. However, falling debris from the intercepted drones caused injuries to civilians in multiple cities.

Two children were injured in Quetta, while one civilian each sustained injuries in Kohat and Rawalpindi. All injured individuals received medical attention and were reported to be in stable condition.

Pakistan warns Afghanistan

Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns on international forums over terrorist attacks being launched from Afghan soil.

On September 23, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called for &ldquo;concrete and verifiable&rdquo; action to prevent Afghan soil from being used for terrorism against neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan, while addressing the OIC Contact Group on Afghanistan on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

In a separate warning following the terrorist attack in Kohat, Pakistan said it had the &ldquo;will and capability&rdquo; to eliminate terror threats &ldquo;wherever they are&rdquo; and urged the international community to press the Afghan Taliban regime to take decisive action against terrorism.

Attributing the attack to &ldquo;the vilest of Khwarij with roots in Afghanistan&rdquo; the Information Ministry noted that the attack was a reminder that &ldquo;terrorism has no religion and no justification&rdquo;. It added that Islamabad had repeatedly raised &ldquo;grave concerns&rdquo; over the alleged use of Afghan territory by the banned TTP and other terrorist groups to plan and launch attacks inside the country.

&ldquo;The presence of terrorist sanctuaries, alongside their recruitment and support infrastructure in Afghanistan, poses a direct threat to Pakistan&rsquo;s security,&rdquo; the ministry had said. It added that these concerns had repeatedly been conveyed to the Afghan Taliban regime and its interlocutors. &ldquo;They must dismantle these networks rather than deflect responsibility,&rdquo; Pakistan said.

United Nations Security Council report formally implicated the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and terrorist entities operating from Afghanistan, highlighting tactical collaboration and shared operational logistics between the groups.

Member-state reporting confirmed that BLA terrorists were trained alongside TTP members at facilities in Afghanistan, according to the report, which also described growing operational links among various terrorist groups operating across the border.

This was not the first time a UN report pointed to the threat posed by terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. In 2023, a UN report also revealed that the TTP had established a new base in K-P in mid-2023, shedding light on close ties between the TTP and the Afghan Taliban, as well as between the TTP and anti-Pakistani groups and Al Qaeda.

Pak-Afghan tensions

K-P had witnessed a significant rise in militant violence last year, with more than 500 attacks reported, marking a 50% increase compared to the previous year.

The fighting ​between Pakistan and Afghanistan that started in October ​has ⁠killed scores of people on both sides, with Afghans taking the brunt. Islamabad accuses the Afghan Taliban of harbouring ⁠militants ​who launch attacks in Pakistan, ​although Kabul denies this, calling the militancy its neighbour&#39;s domestic problem.

Operation Ghazab Lil Haq was launched around the end of February following renewed clashes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, after Afghan Taliban forces fired on multiple locations, prompting swift military retaliation by Pakistan.

The clashes intensified after Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes targeting terrorist positions. The two sides had agreed to a week-long ceasefire on the eve of Eidul Fitr on March 18, following requests from T&uuml;rkiye, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Also Read: Info ministry rejects Afghan Taliban-linked claims of cross-border drone strikes

Pakistan in April put forth three core demands to the Afghan Taliban during peace talks in Urumqi, China, including Kabul formally declaring the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan a terrorist organisation, dismantling its infrastructure, and providing verifiable proof of the action. These demands form the basis of Pakistan&#39;s negotiating position, which sources say has hardened amid persistent security concerns.





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			<title>FM Dar, Araghchi stress importance of dialogue, diplomacy for regional stability on UNGA sidelines</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631134/fm-dar-araghchi-stress-importance-of-dialogue-diplomacy-for-regional-stability-on-unga-sidelines</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631134/fm-dar-araghchi-stress-importance-of-dialogue-diplomacy-for-regional-stability-on-unga-sidelines#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 05:37:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[The two sides also agreed to remain in close contact]]>
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				<![CDATA[Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (FM) Ishaq Dar and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi discussed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and sustained engagement to promote regional peace and stability during a meeting in New York, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Thursday.

The ministry said that the two ministers met on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where they also discussed bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international developments.

&ldquo;FM underscored the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and sustained engagement in promoting regional peace and stability,&rdquo; the FO said. The two sides also agreed to &ldquo;remain in close contact&rdquo;, it added.



Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 met with Foreign Minister of Iran, H.E. Seyed Abbas Araghchi @Araghchi, on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The two counterparts discussed bilateral relations&hellip; pic.twitter.com/6IuMoY1PJJ
&mdash; Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 24, 2026


Dar holds meeting with South Korean counterpart

Later, FM Dar met South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, and the two reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation, particularly in trade, investment and economic ties, according to a post by the FO.

Dar emphasised the importance of greater business-to-business engagement to unlock new opportunities.



Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Cho Hyun on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and&hellip; pic.twitter.com/0JEY8HgOe2
&mdash; Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 24, 2026



The Korean foreign minister also appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s constructive role in promoting dialogue and diplomacy to address regional issues.

&ldquo;The two Foreign Ministers also underscored the importance of the multilateral system and reaffirmed their commitment to working together at the UN and other multilateral fora on issues of mutual interest,&rdquo; the Foreign Office said.

Pakistan&#39;s role in US-Iran diplomacy&nbsp;

FM Dar and Araghchi last met in Bishkek on September 1, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, where they discussed bilateral relations and regional developments and reaffirmed the importance of continued engagement. Dar stressed that &ldquo;dialogue and diplomacy remain essential&rdquo; to regional peace and stability and said implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran was the &ldquo;only way forward&rdquo;.

Earlier this month, FM Dar and Araghchi also spoke by telephone, agreeing to maintain close contact and meet in New York. During the 19 September call, Dar stressed the need for uninterrupted energy supplies and the safe passage of ships, while saying that &ldquo;dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable means&rdquo; of ensuring peace and stability in the region.

Pakistan had also been involved in efforts to facilitate dialogue between Tehran and Washington. In June, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi travelled to Tehran and met Araghchi as Pakistan sought to support the diplomatic track following the US-Iran memorandum.

Pakistan had hosted the Islamabad Talks in April, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirming Islamabad&rsquo;s role as a mediator between the US and Iran. The Iranian delegation was led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and included Araghchi, while Dar, Naqvi and CDF Asim Munir represented Pakistan.

Following the signing of the Islamabad MoU in June, Pakistan continued to facilitate US-Iran engagement. Four-party talks involving the US and Iran, with Pakistan and Qatar as mediators, were subsequently held in Switzerland to discuss implementation of the agreement.

More recently, Iran said it had exchanged messages with the US through Qatari mediation on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, with Tehran conveying conditions for reviving diplomacy. The development came after Trump said US officials had held talks with Iranian representatives in New York.]]>
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			<title>PML-N's Najeeb Naqi takes oath as 23rd president of AJK</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631167/pml-ns-najeeb-naqi-elected-as-25th-president-of-ajk</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631167/pml-ns-najeeb-naqi-elected-as-25th-president-of-ajk#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 09:34:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[MA Mir]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631167</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[AJK Supreme Court Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram Khan administers the oath]]>
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				<![CDATA[Dr Muhammad Najeeb Naqi of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) on Thursday took the oath as the 23rd President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) at a ceremony held at the President House in Muzaffarabad.

The AJK Supreme Court Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram Khan administered the oath to the newly elected president.

AJK Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani, PML-N AJK President Shah Ghulam Qadir, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam, Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Legislative Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Tariq Farooq, AJK High Court Chief Justice Justice Sardar Liaqat Hussain, former prime ministers Raja Farooq Haider Khan and Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, former federal minister Khurram Dastgir Khan, members of the AJK Cabinet and Legislative Assembly, Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan, Inspector General of Police, senior government officials and other prominent people attended the ceremony.

At the outset, Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan read out the notification declaring Dr Najeeb Naqi as the newly elected president. The oath was then administered by the AJK Supreme Court chief justice.

Following the oath-taking ceremony, a police contingent presented President Najeeb Naqi with a guard of honour.

Read:&nbsp;AJK&#39;s electoral road ends with new PM

Dr Muhammad Najeeb Naqi Khan of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) was elected AJK president after securing 32 votes, while Chaudhry Latif Akbar of Pakistan People&rsquo;s Party (PPP) received only 13 votes.

Reportedly, one PPP lawmaker from Mirpur, Qasim Majeed, did not attend the Assembly session.

President Khan&rsquo;s political career, which began in Sudhnoti in Poonch division more than three decades ago, has taken him from the Legislative Assembly to the Kashmir Council and several key ministerial portfolios. The 62-year-old leader comes from a prominent political family. His grandfather, Colonel Khan Muhammad Khan, is remembered in AJK&rsquo;s political history as the &ldquo;Baba-e-Poonch&rdquo;, while his father, Colonel Muhammad Naqi Khan, was also a politician.

Following his father&rsquo;s death, Naqi entered politics in the 1990s and was first elected to the AJK Legislative Assembly in the 1991 elections. During that term, he served as parliamentary secretary for health and planning and development.

He was re-elected to the assembly in 1996 on the Muslim Conference (MC) ticket and subsequently served as a member of the AJK Council from 2001 to 2006.

In the 2006 elections, he again won an assembly seat on the MC ticket and served in the government, holding portfolios including health, population welfare, colleges and information technology.

Read More: PML-N nominee Najeeb Naqi Khan submits papers for AJK president

Naqi joined the PML-N and was elected to the AJK Legislative Assembly on the party ticket in the 2011 elections. He retained his seat in 2016 and served as a minister for several key departments, including health, finance and planning and development, until 2021. The PML-N&rsquo;s central leadership nominated him this month as its candidate for the AJK presidency.

His political career has thus spanned multiple roles as an elected legislator, parliamentary secretary, Kashmir Council member and cabinet minister, culminating in his election as president for the AJK&rsquo;s highest constitutional office.



مسلم لیگ ن کے ڈاکٹر محمد نجیب نقی خان آزادجموں و کشمیر کے نئے صدر منتخب۔ ڈاکٹر محمد نجیب نقی خان نے 32 ووٹ حاصل کئے، انکے مد مقابل پیپلز پارٹی کے چوہدری لطیف اکبر 13 ووٹ لے سکے۔ ایوان میں مسلم لیگ ن 32 نشستوں کے ساتھ اکثریتی جماعت جبکہ پیپلز پارٹی کی نشستوں کی تعداد 14 ہے۔ وزیر&hellip; pic.twitter.com/s2xbJbcwYE
&mdash; PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) September 24, 2026


Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Naqi, expressing his best wishes to him on assuming the constitutional office.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office (PMO), PM Shehbaz said Naqi&rsquo;s election was a reflection of the confidence placed in him by the people of AJK.

The prime minister expressed hope that Naqi would discharge his responsibilities effectively and play a constructive role in the development, prosperity and welfare of the people of Kashmir. He also reiterated the federal government&rsquo;s commitment to providing full support for the development and prosperity of the people of AJK.]]>
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			<title>Netanyahu's fleeting visit to New York mirrors strained US ties</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631210/netanyahus-fleeting-visit-to-new-york-mirrors-strained-us-ties</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631210/netanyahus-fleeting-visit-to-new-york-mirrors-strained-us-ties#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 14:54:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631210</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Netanyahu will spend under eight hours in New York, meet nine leaders, but hold no announced talks with US officials]]>
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				<![CDATA[Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&#39;s unusually brief trip to the United States to address the UN stands in stark contrast to his week-long visit last year that included a meeting with President ​Donald Trump, reflecting rocky times in US-Israeli ties.

Netanyahu is expected to be in New York for &zwnj;less than eight hours before returning to Israel, two Israeli officials said.

His office said he would meet nine world leaders, five of them from Latin American nations with which Israel has sought to deepen ties as relations with traditional partners in Europe have been strained by ​the Gaza war and West Bank settlement expansion.

But a statement from Netanyahu&#39;s office made no mention of meetings ​with US officials at the annual UN General Assembly.

Tough election looming 

Israel&#39;s former ambassador to Washington, ⁠Michael Oren, said he could not recall a time when an Israeli prime minister visited the US without meeting ​the president, describing this as a blow for Netanyahu ahead of Israel&#39;s October 27 general election.

Trump has met Netanyahu eight times during ​his second term as president. Their last encounter was in July.

&quot;It&#39;s a campaign speech. Now it would be much better if that campaign speech were accompanied by a meeting with the president, or another world leader, or at least the secretary of state, but apparently it&#39;s ​not,&quot; Oren said.

Read More: Israel&rsquo;s US envoy says son was injured in West Bank ramming attack

&quot;I don&#39;t recall a time when the prime minister came to the United States and didn&#39;t meet with ​the president ... So I&#39;m sure that he was disappointed by that.&quot;

Netanyahu&#39;s office said many world leaders requested to meet him &quot;during the visit, &zwnj;but due ⁠to a tight schedule and the need to return before the onset of (the Jewish holiday of) Sukkot, the prime minister was only able to accommodate some of them&quot;.

Netanyahu&#39;s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Oren&#39;s remarks.

Opinion polls indicate Netanyahu could lose the election, his security credentials still shaken by the October 7, 2023 attacks by ​Hamas ​on Israel, though he ⁠cannot be written off.

Netanyahu is to meet the presidents of Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Panama, Ethiopia and the vice president of Colombia, and the prime ministers of Greece, Slovenia and Papua ​New Guinea, his office said.

Trump and Netanyahu jointly launched a war on Iran in February, ​but the ⁠allies found themselves at odds as Trump sought to extricate the United States from the conflict with key goals unmet. Washington struck an interim deal with Tehran in June that was opposed by Israel before it unravelled a few weeks later.

US public backing ⁠for Israel ​has fallen since the Gaza war began, particularly among Democrats.

Israel has faced deepening ​diplomatic isolation since launching its war in Gaza in response to the October 7 attacks.

Earlier this month, once-steadfast allies Britain, France and Canada announced sanctions ​targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which drew a muted response from Washington.]]>
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			<title>CDF Munir, Maldives parliament speaker discuss bilateral cooperation and regional security</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631185/cdf-munir-maldives-parliament-speaker-discuss-bilateral-cooperation-and-regional-security</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631185/cdf-munir-maldives-parliament-speaker-discuss-bilateral-cooperation-and-regional-security#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:53:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631185</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Raheem Abdullah appreciates Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability]]>
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				<![CDATA[Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s commitment to strengthening ties with the Maldives for the &ldquo;mutual benefit of both countries&rdquo; during a meeting with Speaker of the People&rsquo;s Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdullah in Rawalpindi, the military&#39;s media wing said on Thursday.

Raheem Abdulla was on a five-day visit to Pakistan at the invitation of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. His programme included meetings with political leaders, interactions with the Pakistan-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group and visits to historical and cultural landmarks in Islamabad.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the CDF Munir underscored the importance Pakistan attaches to its &ldquo;brotherly relations&rdquo; with the Maldives. The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional security and bilateral cooperation, during the meeting at General Headquarters (GHQ).

Raheem Abdullah &ldquo;appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability&rdquo; and said he wanted to deepen bilateral engagement and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest, according to the ISPR.

Read: Pakistan, Maldives agree to boost parliamentary cooperation

On September 17, Abdullah met Sadiq, with the two sides agreeing to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and people-to-people contacts.

Sadiq had stressed the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting peace and development in the region, while saying sustainable peace could not be achieved without resolving the issues of Palestine and Kashmir. He had also warned that the Israel-India nexus posed a &ldquo;serious threat&rdquo; to regional and global peace.

Raheem Abdullah had&nbsp;praised Pakistan&rsquo;s &ldquo;clear and consistent&rdquo; stance on Palestine and Kashmir and reaffirmed the Maldives&rsquo; commitment to expanding legislative and institutional cooperation with Islamabad.]]>
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			<title>'PSP rules cannot be overridden': Talal warns new K-P police law may weaken command structure</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631161/psp-rules-cannot-be-overridden-talal-warns-new-k-p-police-law-may-weaken-command-structure</link>
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			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 08:41:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Naeem Asghar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631161</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says new law could increase political influence over appointments, postings and promotions]]>
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				<![CDATA[Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Thursday warned that a new Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) police law could politicise the provincial force by weakening its professional command structure, saying provincial legislation could not override federal Police Service of Pakistan (PSP) rules.

The K-P&nbsp;Cabinet on Wednesday approved the K-P Police Act 2026. The new legislation empowered the provincial government to return the services of federal police officers, including the Inspector General, in cases of unsatisfactory performance. It also established a clear separation between police policy and operational matters, created new oversight boards, and overhauled the investigation and dispute-resolution systems.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Chaudhry said the K-P cabinet had approved the legislation, which would now go before the provincial assembly, and questioned whether a province could use its legislative powers to alter a system governed by the Constitution and federal law.

&ldquo;If Balochistan wants to make its own army, can it make an army through legislation?&rdquo; he asked.

Chaudhry said PSP rules had been challenged before high courts and the Supreme Court (SC) over different periods and that the resulting legal principles had become settled. &ldquo;Police Service of Pakistan rules cannot be overridden by provincial legislation,&rdquo; he said.

He said the proposed K-P legislation went beyond the existing powers of chief ministers over police postings, which were broadly similar across all four provinces. &ldquo;The chief minister already has consultation powers, but those powers do not affect the command structure, morale, recruitment, training and promotions,&rdquo; he said.

The proposed law, he said, would instead affect appointments and postings from grade 17 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSP) upwards, including positions for which Regional Police Officers (RPO), Deputy Inspector Generals (DIG) and additional IGs currently exercised authority. &ldquo;This is not only about the IG. You have taken back the entire command structure,&rdquo; Chaudhry said.

Read: K-P Cabinet approves landmark Police Act 2026

He said that powers over appointments, transfers and postings were being placed under political control, allowing decisions ranging from grade 17 DSP postings to appointments at IG level to become subject to the chief minister and ruling party. That, he said, could change the way officers viewed their professional responsibilities.

&ldquo;An officer will start looking towards the politician instead of his senior,&rdquo; Chaudhry said, questioning what would happen to discipline and morale if police personnel began considering the preferences of political leaders before those of their professional chain of command.

He said the issue was particularly serious in K-P, where police personnel had been fighting terrorism and suffering casualties for years.

He recalled that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan had previously spoken about keeping institutions free from political influence, including by citing examples from other countries. A commission was subsequently formed, and a police law was enacted in 2017, he said. &ldquo;Nine years later, you have brought a law that is 180 degrees against that,&rdquo; Chaudhry said.

He questioned why a disciplined force responsible for maintaining public order and fighting terrorism should be subjected to political control in the same way as ordinary civilian departments. &ldquo;Police is not agriculture or fisheries,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry also questioned the proposed recruitment of DSPs, asking how the province would develop senior officers if the existing PSP structure was weakened. &ldquo;If there are no PSP officers, where will your grade 19, 20, 21 and 22 officers come from?&rdquo; he asked.

&ldquo;You can recruit your own people as DSPs and then promote them to grade 18 and 19,&rdquo; he said.

Read More: K-P police bill sparks autonomy concerns

Chaudhry said the debate over command could not be separated from the resources available to the K-P police, which he said had been neglected despite the province&#39;s prolonged battle against terrorism.

The provincial government already controlled the police budget and finances, he said, but salaries remained lower than those of police in other provinces and compensation packages for martyrs were also comparatively lower.

He listed shortages of bulletproof jackets and vehicles, Safe City systems, forensic laboratories and accommodation. &ldquo;K-P has been fighting terrorism for 15 to 20 years. Should its CTD be operating from rented buildings?&rdquo; he asked.

Chaudhry said Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) facilities in Punjab and Islamabad had concrete walls and fortified compounds, while rented CTD buildings in K-P had previously been attacked by terrorists, resulting in deaths, injuries and destruction of buildings.

He said such premises were unsuitable for housing counterterrorism personnel and terrorist detainees.

Chaudhry also questioned how funds allocated to K-P for counterterrorism under the National Finance Commission award had been spent. He said the province received one per cent under the NFC arrangement for terrorism-related expenditure, which he put at about Rs800 billion.

&ldquo;Show me even Rs200 billion,&rdquo; he said.

He cited the Safe City Peshawar project as another example, saying the project was only now approaching completion after efforts by the provincial police leadership. He questioned what would happen to the project&#39;s funding and administrative structure under the proposed legislation. &ldquo;Without Safe City, forensic labs, equipment, drones and modern equipment, how will you control terrorism and public order today?&rdquo; he asked.

Chaudhry said the disparity between police resources and terrorist capabilities was particularly concerning. He asked reporters to look at security arrangements at Punjab&#39;s border checkposts, where he said police personnel had bulletproof jackets and vehicles and were protected by concrete structures.

Also Read: Police security taken back from K-P MPAs

He said cameras provided round-the-clock surveillance and were difficult to disable with gunfire or explosives.

Chaudhry claimed that no Punjab police personnel had been killed at those checkposts since the facilities were installed, while terrorists had been killed when they attacked them.&ldquo;The K-P police are very brave, but bravery alone cannot fight a terrorist equipped with advanced weapons,&rdquo; he said.

He said terrorists had access to night-vision equipment, drones and other modern technology, including weapons and equipment left in Afghanistan by NATO, the United States and other countries following the war.

Chaudhry further stated that dollars were being sent to Afghanistan through proxies and routes in the east to finance terrorism.

He said a single terrorist could be carrying equipment worth $10,000 to $15,000 at international prices, including a weapon, bulletproof jacket, uniform, ammunition and other equipment.

He contrasted that with a K-P police officer on the frontline who, he said, could lack even a bulletproof jacket, proper training, Safe City coverage or forensic support. &ldquo;These facilities are the responsibility of the K-P government,&rdquo; he said, adding that the chief minister and provincial cabinet controlled the relevant budget and authority.

Chaudhry said police could not be treated as an ordinary provincial department because its command structure was directly linked to discipline and the ability to maintain public order.

He also objected to the proposed police committees under the new law, questioning why such committees were being introduced when the existing police law had been in place since 2017. He said the proposed committees would have six members, all from the provincial assembly, with no opposition member.

He questioned whether political representatives should control police matters at tehsil and district levels and said other groups could provide independent guidance. &ldquo;There are judges, civil society and other people who can give good advice and guidance,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;One province cannot have completely different salaries, training, command structures, investment and appointment and posting procedures for its police,&rdquo; he said.

Read: Kundi rules out governor&#39;s rule in K-P

He said provinces could retain differences in less fundamental areas, such as uniforms and the organisation of traffic or specialised units. &ldquo;But basic things should remain the same.&rdquo;

He warned that if political leaders gained greater influence over transfers and promotions, officers could &quot;start looking at whether a politician is pro-Taliban or anti-Taliban, whether he likes the TLP or not, and whether action should be taken.&quot;

Chaudhry said such a situation would be particularly damaging while K-P remained on the frontline of terrorism.

The minister also criticised the K-P government&#39;s support for police personnel killed in the line of duty. He said the provincial government had the authority to allocate money for martyrs&#39; families and had a moral responsibility to stand with them, but alleged that provincial ministers had not attended the funerals of personnel killed in the Kohat attack.

&ldquo;You do not even attend the funerals of the martyrs,&rdquo; he said.

He linked the lack of financial and political support with an attempt to further weaken police morale through changes to recruitment, transfers, postings and promotions. &ldquo;You cannot demoralise the force in Pakistan,&rdquo; he said.

He also warned that the proposed changes could set a precedent for other provincial police forces.

Chaudhry said disputes over the powers of police chiefs and transfer and posting authorities had previously reached the Sindh High Court and Peshawar High Court, while the SC had heard several related cases.

&ldquo;The law will certainly be challenged in the courts,&rdquo; he said.

He said the federal government would examine the legislation against the Constitution and existing law and could consider further legislation through parliament if required. &ldquo;Even after the 18th Amendment, there are areas where federal law remains in force,&rdquo; he said, again citing PSP rules.

Asked about footage showing a K-P provincial minister allegedly being picked up or arrested by police, Chaudhry questioned the provincial government&#39;s claim that it was unable to protect its own minister. &ldquo;If the provincial government is so helpless, why is it hiding behind this?&rdquo; he asked.

Read More: Uproar in K-P Assembly over minister &#39;abduction&#39;

He said the same provincial police had registered the FIR and taken legal action in the case, while law and order remained a provincial responsibility. &ldquo;If there are dozens of incidents every day, an incident involving a minister or anyone else can happen,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry also questioned the provincial government&#39;s performance after 14 years in power. If the government remained helpless after 14 years, he said, &ldquo;something else should be done&rdquo;.

Chaudhry rejected a reporter&#39;s reference to road closures in Islamabad, saying the WhatsApp status being cited was old. &ldquo;No road was closed,&rdquo; he said, adding that all 125 routes into Islamabad were open until noon.

He said whenever security measures were required, both the federal and provincial governments would follow court orders and the law &ldquo;in letter and spirit&rdquo; to protect lives and property. &ldquo;Attackers cannot be allowed to attack here,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry said governments were responsible for taking security measures for their own officials and institutions, noting that he was a political worker serving his second term as minister of state for interior. &ldquo;Go and compare an Islamabad police station with a K-P police station,&rdquo; he said.

He referred to electric vehicles used by Islamabad police and to bulletproof vehicles provided to K-P by the federal government, while questioning the provincial government&#39;s approach to those resources.

Chaudhry also criticised K-P&#39;s performance in health and education and asked why the province&#39;s shortcomings were being attributed to the establishment or other institutions.

During the exchange, reporters raised several unresolved cases in Islamabad, including a young man whose vehicle allegedly struck someone before leaving the scene, with CCTV footage allegedly not being checked even after a month.

They also raised the case of a woman&#39;s body found within the jurisdiction of Golra police station, with her face allegedly mutilated and organs removed, while the killer or killers remained unidentified.

A reporter further cited comments by PPP political allies that when PML-N was powerful it &ldquo;grabbed the throat&rdquo; and when it was weak it &ldquo;grabbed the feet&rdquo;, and alleged that Chaudhry&#39;s body language resembled the former.

Chaudhry did not answer those individual cases during the exchange and instead returned to the proposed K-P police law, saying its implications were particularly important because of the provincial force&#39;s role in fighting terrorism and its potential effect on the federal structure.

Asked whether Imran would be transferred from Adiala Jail to Islamabad Model Jail once the new facility opened next month, Chaudhry said, &ldquo;Islamabad Model Jail is being built for criminals and prisoners, not for one person.&quot;

He said Islamabad had previously not had a jail and that the new facility would be Pakistan&#39;s first model jail, with extensive facilities for prisoners. Chaudhry said the facilities would be so extensive that many people might prefer living there to living at home, and invited reporters to visit the site.

On the possibility of Governor&#39;s Rule in K-P, Chaudhry said possessing constitutional powers did not mean the government should automatically use them. &ldquo;The government is political,&rdquo; he said.

He said the federal government avoided using many of its powers unless there was no alternative and urged the K-P government to consider its own position. &ldquo;Our desire is that the government that received the vote should govern,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry cited the political situation in 2013, when PTI did not have a simple majority, saying Nawaz Sharif had given the party an opportunity to form the government and PML-N had supported the process.

He said the federal government would continue to deal with the dispute through the Constitution, law and available state mechanisms rather than taking action outside that framework.

He also returned to the wider national security situation, referring to developments in Balochistan and Kashmir and saying Pakistan needed internal unity as international challenges unfolded.

&ldquo;Political disagreement is normal,&rdquo; he said, adding that parties could have their own ideologies but should not weaken matters of national interest for political gain.

Chaudhry cited the National Action Plan as an example of political consensus, saying the first plan had been formulated under a PML-N government on 20 points with the participation of all provincial governments.

He said a second National Action Plan had been agreed upon when Imran was prime minister, again with the agreement of political parties. &ldquo;Agreed national documents should not be damaged for political advantage,&rdquo; he said.]]>
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			<title>Eight terrorists killed in North Waziristan intelligence-based operation: security sources</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631152/eight-terrorists-killed-in-north-waziristan-intelligence-based-operation-security-sources</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631152/eight-terrorists-killed-in-north-waziristan-intelligence-based-operation-security-sources#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 08:05:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631152</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment was also recovered from the possession of slain terrorists]]>
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				<![CDATA[Security forces killed eight Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists during an Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) in North Waziristan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), Pakistan Television (PTV) reported on Thursday, citing security sources.

The operation was conducted after intelligence indicated the presence of terrorists in the area, the sources said, adding that their hideouts were destroyed during the action.

A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment was also recovered from the possession of the slain terrorists, according to the sources.

The sources said the terrorists had attempted to use a mosque as a shield to evade the security forces. Security forces, however, took the sanctity of the mosque into consideration and targeted the terrorists while avoiding damage to the place of worship, the sources said.

The operation was part of continued efforts by security forces against Fitna al-Khawarij in K-P. Security forces remained committed to eliminating Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists from the province, the sources said.

Fitna Al-Khawarij is the state-designated term for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).



#BREAKING

Security forces continue operations against Fitna Al-Khawarij terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing eight terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristan, according to security sources. The sources said terrorist hideouts were completely&hellip; pic.twitter.com/HTFGQrPqCJ
&mdash; Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) September 24, 2026



Earlier, Pakistan also carried out &quot;precision&quot; aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan after drones launched from Afghan territory entered Pakistani airspace. A day earlier, Pakistan&rsquo;s air defence systems had shot down eight drones after they entered the country&rsquo;s airspace from Afghanistan. Security sources said four of the drones were brought down in areas adjoining the Torkham border, while another four were shot down in mountainous areas near the border with Kohat.

Read: 23 abductees rescued, 5 terrorists killed as security forces thwart attempt to set up check post near Kalat

Terrorism is a growing problem for Pakistan, with the number of attacks rising every year since 2022, according to Armed Conflict Location &amp; Event Data (ACLED), a global monitoring organisation. Data from ACLED shows attacks in Pakistan rose nearly fourfold to 2,425 in 2025 from 658 in 2022.

On Sept 18, at least 21 people, including 15 police personnel and six civilians, were killed when an explosion struck a mosque at Kohat&rsquo;s Police Lines during Friday prayers, followed by an attack involving several armed terrorists, according to an initial incident report issued by the DHQ Hospital Kohat medical superintendent and district health officer. More than 100 people were injured in the attack.

Last week, security forces killed 10 terrorists belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna Al-Khawarij in multiple engagements in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa between Sept 15 and 17, while six soldiers embraced martyrdom,

Last month, security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate intelligence-based operations in K-P and Balochistan, targeting suspected members of Fitna Al-Khawarij and Fitna Al-Hindustan.]]>
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			<title>US launches online portal to report suspected visa fraud</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631168/us-launches-online-portal-to-report-suspected-visa-fraud</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631168/us-launches-online-portal-to-report-suspected-visa-fraud#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 09:47:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631168</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says will hold individuals accountable, including by revoking visas and referring fraud for further investigation]]>
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				<![CDATA[The US State Department launched an online portal for the public to report suspected visa fraud and misuse, saying it would help authorities identify and act on fraudulent visa applications and travel schemes, according to a statement issued by the US Department of State that emerged on Thursday.

The statement said that the new tool would provide a &ldquo;convenient and reliable way&rdquo; for people to submit information for prompt review and action.

&ldquo;Many of the tens of thousands of visa fraudsters the Department has identified and held accountable during President Trump&rsquo;s second term were discovered thanks to tips provided by upstanding and concerned members of the public,&rdquo; the statement said.

Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the department&rsquo;s Bureau of Consular Affairs had been conducting &ldquo;rigorous fraud detection and prevention activities&rdquo; to prevent attempts to travel to the US through fraudulent means or for illegal purposes, the statement said.

Visa fraud could involve falsified documents or travel plans, brokers arranging sham marriages, shell companies and fabricated job offers. It could also include &ldquo;engaging in or facilitating birth tourism&rdquo;, the handout read.

Read:&nbsp;Xi receives rare US airport welcome from Trump, First Lady&nbsp;

The statement said visa fraud schemes not only defrauded the US government but also &ldquo;hurt American communities&rdquo;, &ldquo;undermine the US economy and American workers&rdquo; and jeopardise national security and public safety.

&ldquo;The Department of State is fully enforcing US laws and will hold accountable all those who violate them, including by revoking visas and referring fraud for further law enforcement investigation,&rdquo; the statement said.

The department said the portal was intended to help the public provide information about suspected visa fraud and misuse, allowing reports to be submitted for review and possible action. People with information about suspected visa fraud or misuse were encouraged to use the new online portal, the statement concluded.

A day earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with US&nbsp;Charg&eacute; d&rsquo;Affaires&nbsp;Natalie Baker in Islamabad and discussed ways to strengthen Pakistan-US relations, investment opportunities, regional security and efforts for peace and stability.

Pakistan and the US have ramped up efforts to contain visa fraud since the start of the year.

In January, Pakistan and the US mulled to launch joint operations under comprehensive SOPs against networks involved in fake and fraudulent visa activities. The decision was taken during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and US Charg&eacute; d&#39;Affaires Natalie Baker. According to the interior ministry, the two officials held detailed talks on enhancing collaboration, particularly in curbing illegal immigration and improving the effectiveness of the pre-immigration clearance system. Both sides also agreed to increase cooperation at all levels in law-enforcement training, especially for the police.

Later, on March 3, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Anti-Human Trafficking Circle Islamabad arrested the main accused involved in a US visa fraud case. According to officials, a case was registered against Sheikh Syed Saifuddin Arefi following a tip-off from the US Embassy. Police investigation revealed that the accused tried to send several visa applicants to the US using fake documents. The accused and his accomplices provided fake invitations, fake letters from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other documents to the applicants on the pretext of attending the &quot;Festival of Sufi Wisdom&quot; alleged to be held in the US.

Read more:&nbsp;Naqvi, US Charg&eacute; d&rsquo;Affaires discuss regional security

In May, the FIA&rsquo;s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Karachi arrested two suspects for attempting to obtain US visas using forged medical documents. According to an FIA spokesperson, the arrests were made following a complaint from the US Consulate. The two suspects, identified as Muhammad Tauseef Khan and Imran Nazir Silhari, were taken into custody outside the consulate premises.

Then, in August, the US revoked more than 600 visas from foreign nationals as part of a major offensive against &quot;birth tourism&quot; rings, the State Department said.

&ldquo;American citizenship is not for sale,&rdquo; Secretary Marco Rubio wrote on the US social media company X.]]>
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			<title>LHC declines immediate suspension of detention orders against Noreen, Uzma</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631172/lhc-declines-immediate-suspension-of-detention-orders-against-noreen-uzma</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631172/lhc-declines-immediate-suspension-of-detention-orders-against-noreen-uzma#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 10:27:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631172</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Seeks replies from the relevant authorities on their petitions challenging the detentions]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday declined an immediate request to suspend the detention notifications issued against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan&rsquo;s sisters, Dr Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi, and sought replies from the relevant authorities on their petitions challenging the detentions.

Uzma and Noreen had been taken into custody a few days earlier for 30 days under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance 1960 (MPO), a day after their sister Aleema Khan was detained. The detentions of Imran&rsquo;s sisters and other PTI leaders came ahead of the party&rsquo;s planned countrywide protest on September 27 and march to Islamabad.

Justice Abher Gul Khan heard the petitions today, while lawyers Rana Mudassar Umar and Barrister Taimur appeared on behalf of the petitioners.

During the proceedings, Umar asked the court to suspend the detention notifications, saying he wanted to place certain facts before the bench.

&ldquo;Both women are housewives, and Dr Uzma has already been found innocent in the case registered against her,&rdquo; the counsel submitted. He also told the court that a copy of the trial court&rsquo;s decision had been attached to the petition.

Read: Imran&#39;s sisters challenge 30-day detention in LHC, seek immediate release

The court declined to suspend the notifications at this stage and instead directed the relevant authorities to submit their reports and replies. &ldquo;Let us seek reports from the relevant parties,&rdquo; Justice Khan observed.

The petitions sought the annulment of detention notifications issued by the deputy commissioner. The court subsequently issued notices to the respondents, seeking their replies on the pleas. The respondents included the Lahore deputy commissioner, capital city police officer, secretary of the Home Department and superintendent of Kot Lakhpat jail.

Noreen&rsquo;s daughter, Sakina, and others had also approached the high court through Rana Mudassar Umar, challenging the detention orders.

A few days earlier, Justice Gul, while hearing a petition challenging the detention of Aleema and her driver, had sought arguments on the maintainability of the plea.

Imran&#39;s sisters detained under MPO 

Uzma and Noreen were detained for 30 days under Section 3 of the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance 1960, a day after their sister Aleema Khan was detained under the same law. The detentions came ahead of the PTI&rsquo;s planned September 27 countrywide protest and march towards Islamabad.

The Lahore deputy commissioner&rsquo;s orders cited police reports alleging that the two women&rsquo;s activities were &ldquo;prejudicial to the public safety and maintenance of public order&rdquo; and linked them to the May 9, 2023 protests and road blockades. The orders also said multiple cases had been registered against them.

On September 21, Aleema&rsquo;s son Shahraiz Khan approached the LHC challenging the detention orders against his mother and her two sisters. The petition argued that the orders were unlawful and failed to establish any specific conduct warranting preventive detention.

A day later, the LHC sought further arguments on the maintainability of a separate petition challenging Aleema and her driver Muhammad Ameer&rsquo;s detention. Their counsel argued that the detention proceedings appeared to have been initiated after they had already been taken into custody, pointing to the timing of the District Intelligence Committee meeting and the issuance of the detention notification.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan consulate in Jeddah introduces online appointments for NADRA, passport services</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631151/pakistan-consulate-in-jeddah-introduces-online-appointments-for-nadra-passport-services</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631151/pakistan-consulate-in-jeddah-introduces-online-appointments-for-nadra-passport-services#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 07:54:35 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631151</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Initiative aimed at reducing long waits and queues at the consulate while improving the overall delivery of services]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah on Thursday introduced an online appointment system for NADRA and Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) services to streamline consular services for Pakistani citizens living in western Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan&rsquo;s Consul General in Jeddah, Syed Mustafa Rabbani, introduced the initiative as part of efforts to make consular services more convenient and citizen-friendly.

Under the new system, Pakistani citizens could book appointments online for NADRA and passport services and visit the consulate on their scheduled date and time to complete the application process.

From October 1, 2026, NADRA and MRP services would be provided exclusively by appointment. Rabbani told media representatives that appointment bookings had opened on September 20.



A Step-By-Step Procedure for booking an appointment for NADRA and MRP.@ForeignOfficePk pic.twitter.com/w72o7EKZzv
&mdash; Pakistan Consulate General Jeddah (@PakinJeddah) September 22, 2026


Applicants could select a suitable time slot and book an appointment from their homes, while an SMS notification and tracking ID would be issued after the booking was confirmed.

The tracking ID would allow applicants to monitor the status of their appointments online.&nbsp;The initiative was aimed at reducing long waits and queues at the consulate while improving the overall delivery of services.

Rabbani said the system would bring greater organisation and transparency to consular services while saving citizens&rsquo; time. Designated time slots were also expected to reduce overcrowding and waiting times at the consulate.

Read: PM Shehbaz directs expansion of digital consular services for overseas Pakistanis

According to information released by the consulate, appointments could be booked through the online portal appointment.parepjeddah.org. Citizens were also advised to contact consulate officials for guidance or information about the system.

The designated contact numbers were 0126689149, 0558577893, 0558606308 and 0501914472. Information was also available via email at parepjeddah@mofa.gov.pk.

The consulate urged members of the Pakistani community to familiarise themselves with the new system before October 1 and book appointments in advance for NADRA and MRP-related services in accordance with the prescribed procedures.

It advised citizens to make appointments ahead of time to avoid difficulties and unnecessary waiting at the consulate.

During the briefing, Rabbani outlined various aspects of the new system and reiterated his commitment to making consular services more convenient, organised and efficient for the Pakistani community.]]>
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			<title>The new face of South Asian representation at Vogue</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631190/the-new-face-of-south-asian-representation-at-vogue</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631190/the-new-face-of-south-asian-representation-at-vogue#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 12:15:42 +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=2631190</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Manish Malhotra, Simone Ashley spotlight a new era of South Asian influence, style and representation at Vogue]]>
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				<![CDATA[South Asian representation in fashion is no longer confined to the margins of the industry. Across the pages, covers, runways and social feeds of the world&rsquo;s most influential fashion publications, a new generation of South Asian talent is increasingly impossible to overlook.

A recent&nbsp;Vogue Instagram post brings together six names that capture different facets of that changing landscape: Manish Malhotra, Rashmika Mandanna, Simone Ashley, Natasha Poonawalla, Dhruv Kapoor and Jaya Raheja.

Together, they reflect the breadth of South Asian influence in contemporary fashion&mdash;from couture and cinema to global celebrity, luxury and emerging creative talent.

What makes the group particularly interesting is that there is no single definition of what South Asian representation looks like anymore.





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Manish Malhotra

Few names demonstrate the evolution of Indian fashion on the global stage quite like Manish Malhotra.

He first became widely known through his work as a Bollywood costume designer before establishing his eponymous label in 2005.





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His work has long occupied the space between cinema, celebrity and couture, bringing Indian embroidery, embellishment and traditional silhouettes into the vocabulary of contemporary glamour. Vogue has described his career as a journey from costumes to couture, with hundreds of film credits shaping his visual language.

In 2026, that journey reached another significant milestone when Malhotra made his debut on the official Paris Haute Couture Week calendar.

His couture collection drew heavily on Indian craftsmanship, including zardozi, resham, crystal work and hand embroidery, while experimenting with ways to take traditionally Indian techniques into an international luxury context.

Rashmika Mandanna

For Rashmika Mandanna, representation is inseparable from the idea of crossing borders.





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Her career has moved across India&#39;s regional film industries and languages, making her part of a new generation of Indian stars whose audiences are increasingly national and global. Vogue India recently described her as someone who has had to navigate different languages, industries and ideas of regional identity throughout her career.

Mandanna&#39;s presence in fashion reflects the increasing visibility of Indian popular culture internationally, while also demonstrating how celebrity style can become a form of cultural representation. She represents an India that is multilingual, regional and global all at once.

Simone Ashley

Few contemporary actors have become as closely associated with a new generation of South Asian representation in Western popular culture as Simone Ashley.





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Her breakout role as Kate Sharma in Bridgerton placed a British Indian woman at the centre of one of the world&#39;s biggest television franchises. Ashley has spoken openly about what it means to represent Indian women on screen, telling Vogue India that representing Indian women has been a joy.

Her relationship with fashion has expanded that visibility beyond the screen. From Vogue World to international magazine appearances and luxury fashion campaigns, Ashley occupies a space where British, Indian and global identities intersect.

Her significance lies partly in what she makes possible for the women who come after her. As she told Vogue recently, there is still substantial room for progress in representation, even as she sees more women from diverse backgrounds receiving major roles.

Natasha Poonawalla





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Natasha Poonawalla represents another side of South Asian influence: the fashion insider and tastemaker who moves comfortably between Indian design and the international luxury establishment.

A fixture on major fashion and red-carpet circuits, Poonawalla has become known for highly considered, often experimental fashion choices. Vogue India has repeatedly documented her appearances, including her collaborations with Indian designers and her Met Gala looks.

Her fashion choices also demonstrate how South Asian heritage can operate within global luxury without necessarily being presented as costume or nostalgia.

Her 2025 Met Gala ensemble, for example, incorporated vintage Parsi Gara saris into a look created by Manish Malhotra, bringing an element of Parsi textile history into one of fashion&#39;s most visible international stages.

Dhruv Kapoor

Dhruv Kapoor represents a younger, more contemporary vocabulary of Indian fashion.





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Rather than relying exclusively on familiar ideas of Indian luxury, designers of this generation are questioning what South Asian fashion can look like in the first place.

Vogue&#39;s recent coverage of the region&#39;s fashion landscape has highlighted precisely this shift: younger designers are taking local craft and heritage and placing them into silhouettes and ideas that speak to a global contemporary audience.

This is an important distinction. Representation is not simply about putting a South Asian person in a fashion photograph. It is also about allowing South Asian designers to define their own aesthetic language.

Jaya Raheja





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Jaya Raheja represents another part of this changing ecosystem: the emerging South Asian fashion voice.

Her inclusion alongside established figures such as Malhotra and Poonawalla, and globally recognised performers such as Ashley and Mandanna, points toward a fashion landscape that is becoming broader and more generational.

That matters because South Asian representation is no longer a story that can be told through a handful of established names. It is increasingly an ecosystem made up of different generations, professions, aesthetics and identities.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about these six names is what they collectively say about the meaning of South Asian representation.

For decades, international fashion&#39;s relationship with South Asia was often filtered through a narrow set of visual references: embroidery, bridalwear, saris, jewellery and craftsmanship. Those elements remain enormously important, but they are no longer the whole story.]]>
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			<title>Nadia Khan regrets turning down Shoaib Mansoor's 'Bol' role</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631173/nadia-khan-regrets-turning-down-shoaib-mansoors-bol-role</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631173/nadia-khan-regrets-turning-down-shoaib-mansoors-bol-role#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 10:35:15 +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=2631173</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[TV host says family circumstances and social expectations around films influenced her decision to turn down the role]]>
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				<![CDATA[Television host Nadia Khan has opened up about a career decision she now wishes she could have made differently: turning down a role in Shoaib Mansoor&rsquo;s acclaimed film Bol.

Speaking in an interview alongside actor Atiqa Odho, Khan said she had genuinely wanted to be part of the project, but circumstances surrounding her personal life ultimately influenced her decision. &ldquo;I regret turning down &#39;Bol&#39;. I really wanted to do it and he really wanted me to do it,&rdquo; Khan said, referring to director Shoaib Mansoor.

Khan recalled that Mansoor was particularly disappointed by her decision and made several attempts to persuade her to reconsider. &ldquo;Mansoor was very upset and had many meetings to try to convince me,&rdquo; she said.

Looking back, she said her decision was also shaped by the social expectations surrounding film and television at the time. For women who had established themselves on television, making the transition to cinema could carry additional scrutiny.

&ldquo;My generation was different and I wasn&rsquo;t strong enough to do films or to convince other people of why I should,&rdquo; she said.





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Odho, who was part of the conversation, agreed that the distinction between television and cinema was much more pronounced at the time. &ldquo;Doing films was very different from being on television, for our society back then,&rdquo; she said.

Khan later revealed that family circumstances had also played a significant role in her decision. Asked directly about what had held her back, she acknowledged that her then-husband was a factor. &ldquo;It was also my ex. I just wanted peace in my family,&rdquo; Khan said.

Despite Khan&rsquo;s decision too, Bol went on to feature a cast including Mahira Khan, Humaima Malik, Iman Ali and Atif Aslam, becoming one of Mansoor&rsquo;s most widely recognised films.

Khan has remained a prominent figure in Pakistan&rsquo;s television and entertainment industry for decades. She first gained recognition as a television host before expanding into acting and other areas of media, with credits including Pehchaan, Dolly Darling, Kam Zarf and Aisi Hai Tanhai.

She is also set to appear in Pakistan&rsquo;s first Netflix production, Jo Bachay Hai Sang Samait Lo.

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Nadia Afgan also revealed that she had turned down two other projects around the same time: Faraar and Jo Bichar Gaye.

&ldquo;I refused the projects because there were too many projects I was doing at the same time, and I wasn&rsquo;t going to work for what felt like 2 rupees when I deserve more,&rdquo; she said.

Looking back, Afgan said that while she sometimes wished she had been part of certain projects, she still stood by her decision not to accept those roles. She later revealed that both the roles went to Nadia Jamil.&nbsp;

Previously, she has&nbsp;discussed&nbsp;the changing landscape of Pakistan&rsquo;s entertainment industry, her evolving relationship with younger actors and the unlikely turn of events that launched her career decades ago.

Afgan has been part of many successful projects recently, including Aik Aur Pakeezah and Dar-e-Nijaat. She also starred in Jinn Ki Shadi Unki Shadi, Sharpasand, and Kabuli Pulao previously.]]>
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			<title>Meera appeals for UK visa to visit sister with advanced-stage cancer</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631191/meera-appeals-for-uk-visa-to-visit-sister-with-advanced-stage-cancer</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631191/meera-appeals-for-uk-visa-to-visit-sister-with-advanced-stage-cancer#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 12:27:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Life And Style Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Actor urges British authorities to consider her visa request on humanitarian grounds so she can travel to London]]>
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				<![CDATA[Veteran actor&nbsp;Meera has appealed to the British government to grant her a visa on compassionate grounds so she can travel to London to see her sister, Shahista Abbas, who she said is suffering from advanced-stage cancer.

In a video circulating on social media, Meera directly addressed UK embassy officials and government authorities in Pakistan and London, asking them to consider her circumstances and allow her to travel.

&quot;I speak to the London embassy and other government officials in Pakistan and London to request that they grant me a visa to see my sister Shahista Abbas, who is in London. She&#39;s an advanced-stage cancer patient, and her condition is really serious,&quot; she said.

She added that her mother, Shafqat Zahra Bukhari, and younger brother, Saeed Hussain Abbas, are also currently in London.





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Speaking from New York, Meera said her sister&#39;s condition had deteriorated and that she urgently wanted to be by her side during what she described as an extremely difficult time for her family.

She appealed to British authorities to &quot;consider my circumstances on humanitarian grounds and facilitate my case&quot;, asking for permission to travel to London.

Meera has previously faced reported difficulties obtaining permission to enter the UK, where several members of her family are British nationals.

She also appealed to British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband and British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott to consider her circumstances on humanitarian grounds and facilitate her visa application.]]>
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			<title>Amitabh Bachchan recalls how he and Jaya married just a day after deciding</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631184/amitabh-bachchan-recalls-how-he-and-jaya-married-just-a-day-after-deciding</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631184/amitabh-bachchan-recalls-how-he-and-jaya-married-just-a-day-after-deciding#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:53:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Life And Style Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Veteran actor says the couple skipped elaborate wedding plans and tied the knot the day after deciding to get married]]>
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				<![CDATA[Amitabh Bachchan has shared a surprising account of how his marriage to actress Jaya Bachchan came together with almost no advance planning. The veteran actor revealed that the decision was made so quickly that the couple tied the knot just a day after discussing marriage.

According to Gulf News, Bachchan spoke about his wedding while interacting with Kolkata contestant Aheli Roy on Kaun Banega Crorepati 18. During the conversation, Aheli asked him how he had convinced Jaya&rsquo;s family before their marriage.

Bachchan said there was no lengthy discussion or elaborate planning between the families. Instead, he simply suggested to Jaya that they should get married, and she agreed. &quot;I told Jaya one day that we should get married, and that was it - the decision was made&quot;, he said.

He added, &quot;After the marriage was decided, Jaya ji must have gone and told her parents. We don&rsquo;t even know what she must have said, but they agreed and came over. Then there was some discussion, and we got married the very next day&quot;.



Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan&#39;s wedding in June, 1973. PHOTO: Khaleej Times

Bachchan said the couple did not get caught up in the elaborate preparations that often accompany weddings today. Reflecting on the simplicity of their own ceremony, he questioned the need for lengthy planning and elaborate celebrations.

&quot;Honestly, shouldn&rsquo;t it be this way? Who wants to get into all that hassle of deciding the date, choosing what to wear, going here and there, making all these arrangements, having bands play and everything? There&rsquo;s really no point to all that. We simply accepted that she was going to be my wife, and nothing could be more meaningful than that&quot;, he said.

The couple married on June 3, 1973, following the success of Zanjeer. According to Khaleej Times, they celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary in June 2025.

The couple later welcomed two children, Shweta Bachchan Nanda and actor Abhishek Bachchan, and have remained one of Bollywood&rsquo;s most prominent married couples.]]>
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			<title>Farhat Ishtiaq to bring 'Zanjeerain' to audio with new series</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631182/farhat-ishtiaq-to-bring-zanjeerain-to-audio-with-new-series</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631182/farhat-ishtiaq-to-bring-zanjeerain-to-audio-with-new-series#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:36:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Life And Style Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Writer will revisit the hit drama in an audio series set to launch on her official YouTube channel in October]]>
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				<![CDATA[Farhat Ishtiaq is taking Zanjeerain beyond television and into the world of audio storytelling, with an audio version of the drama set to launch on her official platforms in October.

The acclaimed writer announced the upcoming series on Instagram following the conclusion of the television drama, directing viewers towards the audio adaptation on her official YouTube channel.

The announcement read, &quot;We are extremely pleased to announce that we are going to start the audio series of the blockbuster drama Zanjeerain on Farhat Ishtiaq&rsquo;s official YouTube channel from October. We hope that you will enjoy this audio series just as much&quot;.

Zanjeerain premiered in April, with Sajal Aly, Ameer Gilani, Danyal Zafar, Sahar Hashmi and Ahsan Khan among its principal cast. Written by Ishtiaq, the drama was set against a mountainous backdrop and brought together romance, family conflict, tradition, power and long-standing rivalries.

At its centre was Rabiya, played by Sajal Aly, whose life became intertwined with Muddasir and Sar Buland as the story explored questions of family honour, loyalty and the consequences of decisions made by previous generations.

The drama&rsquo;s sprawling ensemble of characters and interconnected relationships placed individual choices within a broader web of family history and social expectations, giving the story a narrative that extended well beyond its central romance.





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With the television series now complete, the audio adaptation offers audiences a different way to experience the story. Without the visual elements of locations, costumes and performances, the audio format places greater emphasis on dialogue, narration, characterisation and Ishtiaq&rsquo;s writing.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm from fans, with several viewers taking to the comments to praise the writer and express their excitement about the new format. One user wrote, &ldquo;Please write part two&rdquo;, while another described the drama as &ldquo;Unforgettable&rdquo;.

For audiences familiar with Ishtiaq&rsquo;s work, the move into audio storytelling is not entirely new. Her official YouTube channel has previously featured audio versions of stories, including Meem Se Mohabbat, published as part of the &quot;Awaz Kahani Series&quot;.



The upcoming Zanjeerain audio series therefore continues Ishtiaq&rsquo;s exploration of a format that allows her stories to be experienced with a greater focus on the written narrative and the conversations between her characters.

Rather than simply revisiting the television drama, the audio adaptation gives Zanjeerain another life &mdash; this time through voices, dialogue and storytelling rather than the screen.]]>
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			<title>Iranian flights cancelled as new US 'D-Day' sanctions take effect</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631215/iranian-flights-cancelled-as-new-us-d-day-sanctions-take-effect</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631215/iranian-flights-cancelled-as-new-us-d-day-sanctions-take-effect#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 15:46:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631215</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[US has announced to extend reach of its financial sanctions by targeting companies doing business with Iranian firms]]>
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				<![CDATA[Iranian flights to Gulf neighbours, including travel hub Dubai, appeared to have been cancelled on Thursday after a US deadline passed for global firms to halt work with Iran&#39;s airlines, ​a major step in a campaign President Donald Trump calls &quot;economic D-Day&quot;.

With the US-Israeli war against Iran largely stalemated for months on the battlefield, Washington has announced a shift in tactics to extend the reach of its financial sanctions by targeting companies from third countries that do business with Iranian firms, a practice known as &quot;secondary sanctions&quot;.

Trump referred to the new strategy last month as &quot;economic D-Day&quot;, comparing it ​to the assault on Nazi-controlled France in World War Two by the United States and its allies.

The US Treasury had set September 23 as the deadline for companies ​worldwide to comply with an order to stop doing business with Iranian airlines. Washington says the aim is to ground the entire global ⁠Iranian civilian fleet.

Read: Saudi Arabia reports fresh Houthi attacks, issues warning for Makkah

Iran threatened on Wednesday to retaliate against any neighbouring countries that comply with the US ban on its flights, by making their airports &quot;unusable&quot;.

There were no immediate public announcements from countries ​that they were halting flights, but Iran&#39;s ISNA news agency said all flights to the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf&#39;s biggest travel hub, had been halted as of midnight.

No arrivals or departures ​to Iran were visible on the websites of Dubai or Abu Dhabi airports on Thursday. Websites of at least two Iranian airlines, Qeshm and Varesh, showed UAE flights had been cancelled.&nbsp;

State-run WAM news agency reported the UAE&nbsp;suspended flights by Iranian air carriers to and from the country until further notice.

The General Civil Aviation Authority said the decision took effect today.

In a statement carried by WAM, the authority said that &ldquo;the decision was made in light of the US ban imposed on Iranian airlines from using airports in various countries around the world.&rdquo;

The authority said it would continue to update relevant authorities and the public on any developments until air traffic between the UAE and Iran returned&nbsp;to normal.

It also urged the public to rely only on official sources for information.

The website of Iran&#39;s Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran showed departures and arrivals on Thursday were still scheduled to and from countries including Afghanistan, Armenia, ​China, Iraq, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Turkey, but not nearby Gulf states. ISNA said a flight to Tajikistan had also been turned back because Turkmenistan had closed its airspace.

A flight ban, if ​sustained, could deepen Iran&#39;s isolation and worsen an economic crisis in the country, which is already facing a US blockade of its ports at sea.

&quot;We are living in an open-air prison,&quot; a retired teacher in &zwnj;Tehran told ⁠Reuters by text message on condition her name not be used.]]>
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			<title>Oil prices fall as Iran says it is open to diplomacy to end the war</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631143/oil-prices-fall-as-iran-says-it-is-open-to-diplomacy-to-end-the-war</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631143/oil-prices-fall-as-iran-says-it-is-open-to-diplomacy-to-end-the-war#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 07:03:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631143</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Brent crude fell 92 cents, or 0.9%, to $102.16 a barrel at ​0900 PKT, WTI eased 77 cents, or 0.8%, to $91.39]]>
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				<![CDATA[Oil prices retreated on Thursday after &zwnj;climbing 4% in the previous session as Iran said it remained open to diplomacy to end the US-Iran war, though the two countries remain far apart on ways to do so.

Brent crude futures fell 92 cents, or 0.9%, to $102.16 a barrel at ​0900 PKT, while West Texas Intermediate futures eased 77 cents, or 0.8%, to $91.39.

Iran and the United ​States remain divided over how to bring an end to their war, but diplomacy must ⁠continue, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday, after Iran&#39;s president told the UN General Assembly that ​Tehran would never surrender to US pressure.

The official said Tehran was reviewing Washington&#39;s response to its peace proposals, ​which prioritise lifting a US naval blockade on Iranian ports and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Read:&nbsp;Fuel levy poses bigger inflation risks

&quot;Oil is falling because the market is unwinding part of its geopolitical risk premium as Gulf supply recovers and hopes of a US-Iran diplomatic breakthrough grow,&quot; said ​Priyanka Sachdeva, head of market insights at Phillip Nova.

&quot;Brent retains a larger geopolitical and sea-route premium because international ​crude is more directly exposed to Middle East and Hormuz disruption, while WTI benefits more from relatively insulated US supply,&quot; Sachdeva &zwnj;added.

Earlier on ⁠Wednesday, Iran&#39;s security chief Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would not be reopened while Iran&#39;s conditions are not met.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters on Wednesday that a deal with Iran would involve hard work over a period of time, adding that President Donald Trump also had military options.

Traders also evaluated possible curbs ​on diesel exports. Ultra-low-sulfur ​diesel futures were down about ⁠5% in midday trading after website Politico said the Trump administration was preparing plans for a 90-day diesel ban, but the White House denied this.

Read more:&nbsp;Iranian FM spokesperson rebukes Canadian PM for calling &lsquo;annihilation&rsquo; threat &lsquo;language of war&rsquo;

US Energy Secretary Chris ​Wright had said earlier on Wednesday that a diesel export ban would not work ​even though Trump said he ⁠would support it.

Analysts and market watchers have warned that such a move would do little to ease high energy prices and could worsen global supplies and further disrupt economies.

US distillate stockpiles, including diesel and heating oil fell by 428,000 ⁠barrels to ​107.4 million barrels last week, Energy Information Administration data showed.

Meanwhile, US ​crude inventories rose by 3 million barrels to 426.4 million barrels last week, though analysts polled by Reuters had expected a 641,000-barrel draw.]]>
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			<title>PSX falls 1,734 points on geopolitics tension</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631164/psx-slips-474-points-as-profit-taking-follows-rally</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631164/psx-slips-474-points-as-profit-taking-follows-rally#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 08:50:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631164</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[KSE-100 drops to 170,499 points as oil spike and caution outweigh refinery deals]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) closed lower on Thursday, with the benchmark KSE-100 index shedding 1,733.6 points, or 1.01%, to finish at 170,499. Volume on the index was 315 million shares; the All-Share Index dropped 1.08% to 103,103.

The index opened stronger and touched an intraday high of 172,491 before selling accelerated in the second half, as per KTrade. It bottomed at 170,418.

Commercial banks, cement, oil and gas exploration, power and refinery stocks led the decline. UBL was the largest point drag (about &minus;200 points), followed by LUCK, MARI, HUBC and NBP.

Read: Oil prices fall as Iran says it is open to diplomacy to end the war

Brent crude moved toward $107 a barrel, keeping geopolitical and macroeconomic concerns elevated. That reversed much of Wednesday&rsquo;s 830-point gain, which had been supported by hopes around US-Iran talks and the arrival of an IMF mission.

A genuine structural positive did not save the session.

National Refinery (NRL), Attock Refinery (ATRL) and Cnergyico (CNERGY) signed upgrade agreements with Inter State Gas Systems (ISGS) under the amended brownfield refinery policy &mdash; part of a roughly $6billion modernisation push aimed at Euro-V fuels and lower import dependence. Refinery stocks still closed lower with the broader market.]]>
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			<title>IMF talks begin with reform gaps</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631068/imf-talks-begin-with-reform-gaps</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631068/imf-talks-begin-with-reform-gaps#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 21:56:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahbaz Rana]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631068</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Health, educational spending target missed by Rs370b; SOE reform pace slows]]>
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				<![CDATA[As the International Monetary Fund (IMF) began talks from Karachi, Pakistan managed to show progress on fiscal and monetary numbers, which would lead to the release of loan tranches, but it failed to meet a few conditions related to an increase in spending on education and healthcare and improving governance.

In addition to reviewing the implementation of programme conditions till June this year, the IMF mission on Wednesday also simultaneously began Article-IV consultations &ndash; a comprehensive and deeper dive to gauge the health of Pakistan&#39;s economy.

On the opening day, the IMF had a bird&#39;s-eye view of Pakistan&#39;s macroeconomic outlook and the external sector situation in the light of the Middle East conflict and its implications for Pakistan&#39;s economy, according to officials privy to the discussions. They said that the IMF would seek the federal government&#39;s perspective on the macroeconomic outlook during its visit to Islamabad, which is expected to begin on September 28, provided the capital city remains open.

The successful culmination of IMF talks will result in a recommendation to the board for the release of $1.2 billion worth of two tranches and publication of a comprehensive Article-IV report, which will become the base for any future engagement with Pakistan.

However, sources said that the IMF&#39;s concerns remain about the lack of implementation of structural reforms aimed at improving the governance of state-owned enterprises, continued market interventions and the lack of transparency in the budget with reference to large statistical discrepancies. The government surpassed the IMF&#39;s condition to produce a primary budget surplus &ndash; calculated after excluding interest payments. But the IMF has concerns about Rs853 billion in statistical discrepancies, the sources added. The global lender is expected to hold detailed meetings on the discrepancy in accounts of the last fiscal year, they added.

Pakistan has missed the condition that the five governments will cumulatively spend Rs3.47 trillion on health and education. The condition has been missed by a wide margin of Rs370 billion. This could prove one of the difficult points for Pakistani authorities.

The condition on health and educational spending has been missed despite the IMF having imposed a limit to keep primary current spending at the projected inflation rate, while fiscal space is explicitly reallocated to social protection, health and education.

The government has also not fully implemented the condition to table bills in parliament to amend laws of 10 SOEs to improve their governance and inculcate corporate culture. The IMF had also set a condition that by June 2026, the government should publish a plan outlining the post-2027 financial sector strategy and the institutional and regulatory environment from 2028 onwards. The condition has been imposed in light of the constitutional provision to end the interest-based economy.

By March this year, there was an IMF requirement to amend the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) Act and other legislation to adopt appropriate governance mechanisms and safeguards following international standards and good practices to ensure that SOEs under the SWF ownership revert to the SOE Act&#39;s governance structures, and appropriate fiscal safeguards were in place for the SWF operations. The government has tabled the bill in parliament, but it could not be approved. The condition that the federal and provincial governments will agree and the federal cabinet will adopt a national policy for sugar market liberalisation containing key recommendations on licensing, price controls, import and export permissions, zoning and clear timelines for implementation has also been missed.

However, the condition to timely adjust gas and electricity prices has been met. Officials said that the FBR&#39;s performance would also come under scrutiny in addition to reviewing the taxation matters related to provinces.

The IMF on Wednesday held a virtual meeting on the tax matters, including reviewing the agricultural taxation regime with the Balochistan Revenue Authority. The IMF acknowledged the FBR&#39;s role in data-sharing arrangements with provinces.

Sources said that one of the outstanding issues with the IMF could be the property sector taxation, particularly the fake withholding tax payments that were unearthed in the Multan region. On the external side, the IMF&#39;s focus is expected to be the external financing requirement, higher import bill due to regional tensions and the interbank exchange rate movement.

The central bank&#39;s view was that the external financing conditions and reserve adequacy remained broadly supportive, aided by multilateral and bilateral official inflows and continued central bank foreign exchange purchases. The SBP was targeting gross international reserves at over $21 billion by end-June 2027 on a permanent basis, as the current hike is temporary and will be reversed once $3 billion is paid to Saudi Arabia.

The monetary policy committee of the SBP noted in the last meeting that the external sector outlook remained susceptible to elevated global commodity prices and supply constraints amidst the unfolding developments in the Middle East. The central bank&#39;s macroeconomic assessment was that economic activity was expected to pick up in the current fiscal year but at a slower pace than anticipated earlier due to elevated energy costs and supply disruptions.

The central bank sees the current account deficit widening in the current fiscal year in line with the expected pickup in economic activity and higher global commodity prices. But it still expects the deficit to stay below 1% of GDP.]]>
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			<title>ADB keeps Pakistan's growth at 3.7%</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631063/adb-keeps-pakistans-growth-at-37</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631063/adb-keeps-pakistans-growth-at-37#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 21:56:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Shahbaz Rana]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631063</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Expects reduction in expenses if FBR's tax collection falls short of target]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday kept Pakistan&#39;s economic growth forecast at 3.7%, the third lowest in South Asia and below the official target, and said that the government may have to slash expenses due to any shortfall in tax collection by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

In its flagship Asian Development Outlook, the Manila-based lending agency said that household consumption in Pakistan would remain subdued in the current fiscal year due to a rising cost of living. It put the inflation forecast at 8.3% for the new fiscal year, the second highest in the region after Bangladesh. Inflation will remain above the central bank&#39;s medium-term target range, complicating monetary policy, according to the ADB. It said that economic growth was projected to remain at 3.7% in fiscal year 2026-27 as lingering effects from the Middle East conflict dampened macroeconomic momentum.

At 3.7%, Pakistan will be the third slowest growing economy in the region after Afghanistan and the Maldives. India is projected to grow at 7.1%, the second highest in the region, and Bhutan at 7.2%.

The ADB said that Pakistan&#39;s domestic fuel and logistics costs were expected to remain elevated in the first half of fiscal year 2027 amid ongoing disruptions to global energy supplies, while higher international fertiliser prices would raise agricultural input costs and food prices.

Expenditure cuts

The ADB said that there was pressure on expenditure, which reflected a 16% increase in defence spending and higher interest payment allocations for the current fiscal year. Lower power sector subsidies and smaller provincial development programmes partially offset those pressures.

However, the lower provincial development spending was because of compression of provincial resources through a reverse transfer to the federal government under Article 164 of the Constitution rather than a shift away from development spending, stated the report. &quot;Execution risks are material: if revenue targets are missed, as in fiscal year 2025 and fiscal 2026, in-year expenditure cuts will be required again, limiting already narrow space for growth-enhancing public investment,&quot; it said.

The ADB said that the FBR missed the IMF-given tax target for the last fiscal year by a wide margin of Rs969 billion. For the current year, the government has set a target of Rs15.263 trillion and its achievement is critical to giving Rs1 trillion in provincial grants to the federal government.

Domestically, falling short of the FBR&#39;s revenue target will increase financing needs and crowd out private investment, undermining the expected demand recovery, according to the lender.

The report underlined that the FBR revenue held flat at 10.2% as a share of GDP, indicating that tax base expansion remained limited. But petroleum levy collection increased 44.5%, said the lender.

The ADB urged more transparency in fiscal matters, improved tax administration and expenditure efficiency to reinforce credibility and reduce borrowing costs. The report stated that continued fiscal consolidation should reduce the public sector&#39;s claim on domestic financing and create space for private credit. But household spending is likely to remain subdued with real incomes compressed by the pass-through of high global energy prices.

Services are expected to remain resilient with information technology exports providing a strong basis, while manufacturing faces slower momentum as elevated energy prices raise production costs. Construction is expected to gain from budget incentives, including reduced property transaction taxes and a higher interest subsidy under the prime minister&#39;s housing scheme.

External sector

The ADB said that external factors were posing downside risks to Pakistan&#39;s economy. If the Middle East conflict escalates, it could raise energy import costs, intensify domestic inflationary pressures and prolong disruptions to the labour markets of Gulf countries, limiting workers&#39; remittances, according to the regional lender.

Pakistan remains particularly exposed because petroleum accounts for a significant share of imports, while remittances from the Gulf economies remain the country&#39;s largest source of foreign exchange. A sharper-than-expected tightening of global financial conditions will raise external borrowing costs and reduce capital inflows, straining Pakistan&#39;s external and fiscal positions, according to the report.

The current account deficit is expected to widen amid heightened geopolitical tensions and recovering domestic demand. Stronger import growth, driven by the manufacturing recovery and persistent frictions in global energy markets, including higher freight and insurance premiums, is expected to widen the trade deficit even as petroleum prices ease.

The ADB said that workers&#39; remittances were projected to remain broadly stable as labour markets in the Gulf countries stabilised. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said last week that remittances were projected to grow to $44 billion in the current fiscal year.

The report noted that Pakistan&#39;s sovereign credit profile strengthened markedly, with international rating agencies upgrading the country&#39;s ratings five times in 2025 and 2026, reflecting improved macroeconomics by manufacturing.]]>
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			<title>PM Shehbaz reaffirms readiness to play ‘constructive role’ for regional peace in meeting with Pezeshkian</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631131/iranian-fm-spokesperson-rebukes-canadian-pm-for-calling-annihilation-threat-language-of-war</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631131/iranian-fm-spokesperson-rebukes-canadian-pm-for-calling-annihilation-threat-language-of-war#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 04:51:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631131</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Premier meets Iranian President on sidelines of UNGA, discuss regional tensions and ways to deepen cooperation]]>
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				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s readiness to continue playing a &ldquo;sincere and constructive role&rdquo; in support of regional peace during a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The meeting took place a day before the premier is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Friday.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office, the two leaders reaffirmed the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and Iran and underscored the need to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across all areas of mutual interest.



Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with the President of Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian today, on the sidelines of the 81st Session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq&hellip; pic.twitter.com/BHkCwC2QNI
&mdash; Prime Minister&#39;s Office (@PakPMO) September 24, 2026



&ldquo;Both leaders also exchanged views on the evolving regional situation,&rdquo; the statement said.

The prime minister expressed deep concern over the prolonged conflict and emphasised the need for restraint, de-escalation and sustained diplomatic engagement to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s readiness to continue playing a sincere and constructive role in support of regional peace and stability, while underscoring the importance of building on and implementing the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.

&ldquo;President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s principled diplomacy and concerted efforts for regional peace and security,&rdquo; the statement said.

The Iranian president also underscored the enduring strength of Pakistan-Iran relations, rooted in shared history, culture and faith, and reaffirmed Tehran&rsquo;s strong desire to further deepen multifaceted cooperation.

The two sides agreed to work for regional peace, security and prosperity, while underlining the importance of maintaining regular consultations and close coordination to address prevailing challenges and seize opportunities, the statement added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, SAPM Tariq Fatemi and senior officials from both sides were also present.

Saudi Aramco chief says disrupted oil operations can be restored &#39;within days&#39;

The chief executive of Saudi oil giant Aramco, Amin Nasser, told Nikkei Asia on Thursday that the company could restore disrupted oil operations within days and was seeking to build alternative export routes, as it faces increasing attacks from Yemen&#39;s Houthi group.

According to Nikkei Asia, Aramco was studying &quot;a fourth and a fifth route&quot; for crude oil exports in addition to its three primary ones.



Saudi Aramco chief says any interruption can be fixed &#39;within days&#39;https://t.co/Evp4PKdtvB pic.twitter.com/Y0wHBI6MWA
&mdash; Nikkei Asia (@NikkeiAsia) September 24, 2026


Six Houthi ballistic missiles launched at Taif, Yanbu intercepted: Saudi coalition

The Saudi-led coalition in conflict with Yemen&rsquo;s Houthis said on Thursday that its forces intercepted six ballistic missiles fired by the group, thwarting attacks on the Saudi cities of Taif and Yanbu.

&ldquo;Escalations and violations by the terrorist Houthi militia will be dealt with firmly,&rdquo; said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki in a series of posts on X.



المتحدث الرسمي باسم قوات التحالف السعودي اللواء الركن تركي المالكي: اعتراض وتدمير 6 صواريخ باليستية أطلقتها الميليشيا الحوثية الإرهابية

&bull; اعتراضات الدفاعات الجوية أحبطت محاولة استهداف الطائف وينبع

&bull; تصعيد وانتهاكات الميليشيا الحوثية الإرهابية سيتم التعامل معها بحزم pic.twitter.com/tptmZZL1gJ
&mdash; كويت نيوز (@KuwaitNews) September 24, 2026


Greek security sources told ​Reuters that an air defence system operated by Greek military personnel in Saudi Arabia ​intercepted a ballistic missile and a drone in the wider Yanbu region.

&quot;Both were shot down,&quot; one of the sources said, adding ​that the Greek Patriot system launched two ​missiles but not giving details on the origin of the &zwnj;drone ⁠and the ballistic missile.

A second source confirmed the information.

It was the fifth time the Greek-operated system had been used in combat since ​the US ​and Israel ⁠launched their war with Iran at the end of February, underscoring ​the widening military role of European ​allies ⁠in defending Gulf energy infrastructure.

Since 2021, Greece has deployed a US-made Patriot air defence battery operated ⁠by ​Greek personnel in Saudi ​Arabia, under an agreement to help protect the kingdom&#39;s energy ​facilities.

Earlier, Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Civil Defence said the danger had passed in Makkah, Taif, and the northwestern region of Tabuk, following earlier emergency warnings for those areas, as well as Jeddah and Yanbu.

In separate all-clear notices, the agency urged residents to continue following its instructions and to avoid gathering or filming.

Makkah, Taif and Jeddah are in western Saudi Arabia. Yanbu is a Red Sea port city farther north, while Tabuk is in the kingdom&rsquo;s northwest.

The Civil Defence had issued warnings through the national early warning platform about a &ldquo;potential danger.&rdquo; The notices did not specify the threat or report casualties or damage.

Saudi Arabia has faced a series of missile and drone attacks attributed to the Houthis in recent days.

Iran may expand war to Indian Ocean if US attacks again: supreme leader&#39;s adviser 

Iran may expand the Middle East war to the Indian Ocean if the US or Israel attacks again, said an adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

&ldquo;We do not know what is going on in the minds of (US President) Trump and (Israeli Premier) Netanyahu,&rdquo; Safavi said.

He said Iranian forces had prepared for the worst-case scenarios in the event of further US or Israeli attacks on the country&rsquo;s facilities or national interests. In that event, he warned, the scope of the conflict would widen.

&ldquo;Now that the war has spread from the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, it is possible that, in the next stage of a potential war with the US, this front could expand further, to the Indian Ocean or elsewhere,&rdquo; he said.

Iran misreading US political system by waiting for midterms: Rubio

Iran is misreading the US political system if it believes the November midterm elections could restrict President Donald Trump&rsquo;s ability to act against Tehran, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday.

&ldquo;I think the Iranians are under this illusion that Democrats are going to win in November, and the president will no longer be able to do things against them,&rdquo; Rubio told reporters in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

Rubio said Tehran appeared not to understand the division of powers in the US, arguing that while Congress plays an important role, the president retains extensive authority over national security matters.

&ldquo;When it comes to the national security of our country, when it comes to the imposition of both sanctions and the use of military force, the president has extraordinary powers,&rdquo; he said, pointing to Trump&rsquo;s constitutional role as commander-in-chief.

His remarks came one day after Trump said he believed Washington would reach an agreement with Iran following the Nov. 3 midterm elections.

&ldquo;I believe we&rsquo;ll make a deal right after the election because it doesn&rsquo;t make sense for them not to,&rdquo; Trump told the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, claiming Iranian leaders were waiting to see how his Republican Party performed in the vote.

Rubio said the outcome of the elections would not change Trump&rsquo;s approach, describing Iran&rsquo;s nuclear program as a national security issue rather than a matter of domestic politics.

&ldquo;For him, the Iranian issue is not a political issue,&rdquo; he said.

Rubio argued that US presidents and most countries had agreed for nearly five decades that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon but had repeatedly failed to take sufficient action.

Trump, he said, was prepared to act despite the associated costs because the consequences of failing to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran would be &ldquo;substantially higher,&rdquo; particularly for future generations.

Iran cancels all flights to United Arab Emirates

All flights operated by Iranian airlines to the United Arab Emirates have been cancelled since midnight, the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) reported Thursday, citing a spokesman for Iran&rsquo;s Civil Aviation Organisation.

It also reported that a Tehran-Dushanbe flight was forced to return to Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran after Turkmenistan did not grant permission for Iranian airlines to fly through its airspace.

The spokesman said the flight was unable to land at its destination because Turkmenistan had not issued permission for Iranian airlines to cross its airspace, forcing it to return to Tehran.

Iran has seen inaction, not neutrality from some countries during war: Pezeshkian

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told European Council President Antonio Costa on Wednesday that inaction, rather than neutrality, was seen from some countries during the recent war, calling on European states to reconsider their approach and maintain greater independence, according to IRNA.

Meeting on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Pezeshkian said European countries deprived themselves of a role in international developments by aligning with hostile US actions.



Iran saw inaction, not neutrality, during recent war: @drpezeshkian https://t.co/ZeqQS6PY9a pic.twitter.com/KmgkE6VcVu
&mdash; IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) September 24, 2026


He criticised Europe&rsquo;s approach to the snapback mechanism and the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying European governments&rsquo; positions reduced their ability to influence international developments. He also referred to comments by the NATO secretary general about European countries&rsquo; assistance to the United States during the war and called for a reassessment of European policies.

Pezeshkian said regional security should be the responsibility of countries in the region, stressing that Western intervention has adversely affected security beyond the region.

Costa called for a European role in addressing regional issues, while Pezeshkian said Europe&rsquo;s alignment with Washington had limited its ability to play such a role.

In a separate message carried by ISNA and Al Mayadeen, Pezeshkian said that Tehran used its appearance at the UN General Assembly to defend Iran&rsquo;s position and respond to US policies, revealing that he moved away from his prepared remarks after hearing US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s speech.

&ldquo;We had prepared a text in advance for the UN General Assembly, but after listening to Trump&rsquo;s speech, we departed from the prepared text to express the realities being imposed by the United States,&rdquo; Pezeshkian said.



Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Thursday that Tehran used its appearance at the UN General Assembly to defend Iran&rsquo;s position and respond to US policies, revealing that he departed from his prepared remarks after hearing US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s speech.

&ldquo;We had&hellip; pic.twitter.com/JfpJWI4jPn
&mdash; Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) September 24, 2026


He accused Washington of acting &ldquo;in violation of laws and humanitarian frameworks,&rdquo; adding that it does &ldquo;nothing but use force and commit acts against humanity.&rdquo;



پزشکیان: در مجمع عمومی سازمان ملل از حقانیت ملت ایران دفاع کردم
-ملت ریشه&zwnj;دار و متمدن ایران نابود شدنی نیست ۱/۲ pic.twitter.com/axmvyjzLqJ
&mdash; خبرگزاری ایسنا (@isna_farsi) September 24, 2026


He also rejected attempts to pressure Iran, saying, &ldquo;They cannot eliminate Iran. Iran is a country deeply rooted in history, and despite all the pressure they exert, our people remain steadfast.&rdquo;

&quot;We tried to express the realities that America imposes on our nation and the world.&quot;

Iranian FM spokesperson rebukes Canadian PM for calling &lsquo;annihilation&rsquo; threat &lsquo;language of war&rsquo; 

Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Thursday criticised Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for &ldquo;reframing a threat to &#39;annihilate&#39; Iran as merely &#39;speaking the language of war&#39;&rdquo;.

Baghaei on X said that &ldquo;Mark Carney must understand that time is too ruthless to let the shelter of illusion and hypocrisy endure forever.&rdquo; He has added that &ldquo;those who sought refuge in the long shadow of American bullying&rdquo; would eventually learn that &ldquo;averting their eyes from reality and bartering away their dignity and self-respect buys no salvation.&rdquo;



To the Canadian Prime Minister who, instead of condemning U.S. blatant aggression and warmongering, chose to appease Washington by reframing a threat to &quot;annihilate&quot; Iran as merely &quot;speaking the language of war&quot;:

Mark Carney must understand that time is too ruthless to let the&hellip; pic.twitter.com/87XRoT8cjc
&mdash; Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) September 24, 2026


He also stated that &ldquo;they will see that the nation they once conspired with empires to crush was the solitary guardian of a sacred flame&rdquo; which &quot;kept a torch burning&quot; against coercion, &quot;a torch that, if allowed to die, would leave humanity with nothing but the cold embrace of naked force, burying the civilised and humane altars of reason beneath the brutal logic of might.&quot;

US Treasury Secretary questions how Iran&rsquo;s UN delegation will get home as sanctions disrupt flights

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that he wondered how the Iranian delegation to the UN General Assembly in New York would return home as American sanctions continued to squeeze the country&rsquo;s international airline operations.

&ldquo;In terms of Operation Economic Outcast, we are squeezing the Iranians like they&#39;ve never seen today,&rdquo; he said.

He said the campaign was affecting Iran&#39;s international air links, claiming that more than 80% to 90% of external flights from Iran had been shut down.

Bessent also warned financial institutions, companies and other businesses supporting Iran that Washington would target their operations and bank accounts.

&quot;We have made it very clear around the world, whether it&#39;s the financiers, the people who are doing business, the people who are supplying the Iranians, we know who you are, you know who you are,&quot; he said.

He described the US strategy as a combination of military action, a naval blockade and financial pressure.

&quot;So we had six weeks of kinetic activity. We have the blockade. And now we have an effort never seen before in terms of constricting and cutting off the financial oxygen to them,&quot; he said.

He said Washington&#39;s pressure campaign could continue for weeks or months, adding that the US was seeking one of three possible outcomes: divisions within the Iranian leadership, an uprising by the Iranian population, or an agreement under which Tehran would comply with its commitments.

Bessent also said the US had attempted to reach an agreement with Iran earlier in the year but accused Tehran of subsequently escalating attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

&quot;If there is a deal, I guarantee you they&#39;re going to stick with it,&quot; he said.

Yemeni government forces stop Houthi attack near key southern provinces

The Yemeni government&rsquo;s armed forces thwarted an attack and infiltration attempts by the Houthis aiming to reach positions near the road linking the southern and southwestern provinces of Aden, Taiz and Lahj, the Ministry of Defence has said in a statement, Al Jazeera reported.



BREAKING: Yemeni government forces thwart Houthi attack near key southern provinces

🔴 LIVE updates: https://t.co/yIoLRqH3fa pic.twitter.com/GP4Oefje3j
&mdash; Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) September 24, 2026


According to the official spokesperson of the Yemeni armed forces, &ldquo;clashes ensued&rdquo;, which forced &ldquo;the attackers to retreat&rdquo; and inflicted heavy losses in lives and equipment.

Read: Iran says it conveyed conditions for reviving diplomacy with US through Qatar

&ldquo;We affirm that our armed forces stationed on those fronts have regained the initiative, are highly prepared, and continue to repel attacks and infiltration attempts,&rdquo; the spokesperson has said.

Shipping traffic via Strait of Hormuz stays lower than 10-day average, data shows

Ten commodity vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, up from seven a day earlier and below the 10-day moving average of about 17, preliminary shipping data showed on Thursday.

Nine vessels entered the strait, including Supramax ships carrying metals, grain and other dry bulk cargoes, as well as an empty very large gas carrier. One Supramax carrying fertiliser exited, according to the data, as of 0923 PKT on Thursday.

The figures exclude any vessels that might have crossed the strait with their transponders turned off to avoid detection.

Before the US-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28, the strait typically handled about 125 large, commercial vessels a day, including tankers, gas carriers, bulkers and container vessels, accounting for some 20% of the world&rsquo;s daily crude oil and liquefied natural gas supply.

Read more: US president open to making a deal with Iran: Rubio

Iran and the US remain far apart on how to end the war, but diplomacy must continue, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday, after Iran&#39;s president told the United Nations General Assembly that Tehran would never surrender to US pressure.

The senior Iranian official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Tehran was reviewing Washington&#39;s response to its peace proposals, which prioritise lifting a US naval blockade on Iranian ports and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

In the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, 27 commodity vessels transited the waterway on Wednesday, up from 24 the day before and compared with an average of 26 ships using the strait over the past 10 days.

EU&#39;s Costa urges Iran to resume cooperation with IAEA

European Council President Antonio Costa said on Wednesday he spoke with Iran&#39;s President Masoud Pezeshkian and urged Iran to resume its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Costa also called for an end to Iran&#39;s strikes against its neighbours and the full restoration of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump should press Xi to stop support for Iran, Democratic senator says

US Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen said on Wednesday President Donald Trump should press Chinese President Xi Jinping at a summit this week over China&#39;s support for Iran, saying that Chinese firms were helping Tehran economically and militarily.

In a Senate speech, Shaheen cited reports that Iran obtained high-resolution satellite imagery of a base in Jordan from Chinese entities before launching a missile attack that killed three American soldiers and wounded four others.

She noted that about 90% of Iran&#39;s oil exports go to China and provided it with &quot;billions of dollars of revenue&quot; and a &quot;critical economic lifeline.&quot;

Shaheen said Chinese and Hong Kong companies had also supplied components used in Iranian ballistic missiles and drones

She urged Trump to &quot;use his leverage&quot; with Xi to stop Chinese firms from providing satellite imagery, missile and drone parts and access to markets for sanctioned Iranian oil.

&quot;If we want to bring this war to an end, we need to cut off the outside support that allows Iran to keep fighting, and that starts with China,&quot; she said.

Shaheen said the administration should enforce sanctions against Chinese entities helping Iran, &quot;and if China doesn&#39;t stop, Congress should impose additional consequences.&quot;

She said Trump should also consider using authorities in recently enacted Russian sanctions legislation against Chinese purchasers of Russian energy, arguing that China was &quot;the top funder of the war in Ukraine, as well as being one of the top funders of the war in Iran.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Saudi Arabia reports fresh Houthi attacks, issues warning for Makkah</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631200/saudi-arabia-reports-fresh-houthi-attacks-issues-warning-for-makkah</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631200/saudi-arabia-reports-fresh-houthi-attacks-issues-warning-for-makkah#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 13:22:04 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[AFP .]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Houthi attacks escalated after renewed hostilities shattered a year-long truce in July]]>
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				<![CDATA[Saudi Arabia intercepted Houthi ballistic missiles on Thursday after issuing warnings for several regions, including Makkah, as the Iran-backed group ramps up attacks on the kingdom.

The attacks were reported as fighting raged in Yemen between the Houthis and Riyadh-backed government forces, killing dozens on both sides, according to a tally from seven sources who spoke to AFP.



#BREAKING: Saudi Arabia&#39;s National Early Warning Platform announced the potential danger has passed in Makkah, Taif and Jeddah pic.twitter.com/1VhD0fEcLh
&mdash; Saudi Gazette (@Saudi_Gazette) September 24, 2026


The missiles were the latest in a series of escalating Houthi attacks since July, when renewed hostilities shattered a years-long truce and embroiled Yemen in the wider Middle East war.

Since then, the Houthis have imposed a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, hitting its tankers and territory and seizing swathes of Yemen&#39;s Red Sea coast, which is vital for Saudi oil exports.

The Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen&#39;s government since 2015 against the Houthis said six ballistic missiles had been intercepted, thwarting attacks on Taif and Yanbu.

&quot;Escalations and violations by the terrorist Houthi militia will be dealt with firmly,&quot; said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki in a series of posts on X.



التحالف :

تصعيد وإنتهاكات الميليشيا الحوثية الإرهابية سيتم التعامل معها بحزم.
&mdash; المتحدث الرسمي باسم قوات التحالف (@CJFCSpox) September 24, 2026


Earlier, the Saudi Civil Defence had issued a brief series of alerts including one for Makkah, with separate warnings for the Red Sea governorate of Yanbu as well as the Taif, Jeddah and Tabuk regions.

Read More: Saudi Aramco chief says disrupted oil operations can be restored &#39;within days&#39;

The alerts were lifted a few minutes later. In recent weeks, alerts have often preceded attacks by the Houthis.

Last week, Riyadh accused the group of targeting Mecca for the first time since 2017 with a drone that was downed, an accusation the Houthis denied.

A few days later, the group attacked the Saudi capital Riyadh,&nbsp;the first in years, marking a new escalation in the conflict.

Strategic hilltops

As the Houthi attacks targeted Saudi Arabia on Thursday, battles raged on the ground in Yemen.

At least 150 Houthi fighters and government forces members have been killed in the past 24 hours, sources from both sides told AFP, including in clashes over hilltops overlooking the Bab al-Mandab strait at the mouth of the Red Sea.

At least 98 soldiers and government forces members were killed, according to an AFP tally compiled from five military sources.

Most were killed in Houthi ballistic missile and drone attacks, with dozens of Yemeni troops killed on the Saudi side of the border that they are tasked with guarding.

At least 52 Houthi fighters were killed, two sources from the group said.

Many on both sides were also killed in clashes in the Kahboub Mountains and in areas between the Lahj and Taiz regions, as the Houthis seek to dominate the highlands overlooking Bab al-Mandab to protect newly seized territory.

In July, a fragile 2022 truce between the Houthis and Yemen&#39;s government fell apart after the group allowed an Iranian plane to land in Sanaa in defiance of Riyadh&#39;s control over Yemeni airspace, setting off a spate of attacks.

The Houthis later announced a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia and began hitting its tankers and territory.

Their gains cement the hold of Iran and its allies on the two waterways that the wider Gulf, including top crude exporter Saudi Arabia, relies on to ship out its oil and other fuel products.]]>
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			<title>Shutdown in India's Ladakh marks anniversary of deadly autonomy protests</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631203/shutdown-in-indias-ladakh-marks-anniversary-of-deadly-autonomy-protests</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631203/shutdown-in-indias-ladakh-marks-anniversary-of-deadly-autonomy-protests#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 14:16:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Shops and businesses closed and streets emptied in Leh on Thursday after a Buddhist group called for a shutdown]]>
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				<![CDATA[Residents in India&#39;s Ladakh staged a virtual shutdown of the main city on Thursday to mark a year since four people were killed during protests demanding greater regional autonomy.

On September 24, 2025, security forces opened fire as demonstrations turned violent in the sparsely populated, high-altitude Himalayan region.

The discontent stems from a 2019 decision by the Indian government to revoke Ladakh&#39;s partial autonomy and impose direct rule.

Shops and businesses in the city of Leh remained shut and streets were deserted on Thursday, witnesses said, following calls for a shutdown by a Buddhist group.

&quot;The shutdown is to commemorate those who laid down their lives for Ladakh and express solidarity with their families, and ... to highlight our demands for autonomy,&quot; a member of the Ladakh Buddhist Association told AFP, declining to be named.

Residents organised special Buddhist prayers to commemorate those they called the &quot;martyrs&quot; of the protests.

Ladakh is strategically important to India as it borders regional rivals China and Pakistan.

The vast desert region is sparsely populated, with around 300,000 residents, half of them Muslim and about 40% Buddhist.

Read More: India&#39;s &#39;cockroach&#39; movement says will launch protest if poll panel chief doesn&#39;t quit in 48 hours

Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s government split Ladakh from Indian-occupied Kashmir in 2019, residents have said the end of semi-autonomy has stripped them of protections over land, jobs, resources and cultural identity.

New Delhi now makes most development decisions, which officials from outside Ladakh tend to implement, sidelining the locally elected council.

On Wednesday, Ladakh&#39;s New Delhi-appointed top administrator said some of the 89 people charged after last year&#39;s protests would no longer face criminal prosecution.

&quot;In the larger interest of peace, public tranquility, and social harmony in Ladakh, I have approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 20 individuals, related to the unfortunate violence that erupted in Leh on September 24 last year,&quot; Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said.

&quot;The decision aims at fostering a more peaceful, united, and harmonious society in Ladakh.&quot;

Negotiations with the federal home ministry have continued since the protests, but residents have secured only limited gains so far.

The government has reserved 85%&nbsp;of jobs for locals and said Indians from outside Ladakh will not be able to acquire domicile status in the region until 2036.

But residents are demanding comprehensive autonomy under the &quot;Sixth Schedule&quot; of India&#39;s constitution, which would allow a local legislature to make laws on land use, jobs and traditional livelihoods.]]>
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			<title>Xi starts high-stakes US visit with call to be ‘partners, not rivals’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631135/us-says-china-trade-truce-extended-as-trump-welcomes-xi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631135/us-says-china-trade-truce-extended-as-trump-welcomes-xi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 06:06:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631135</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Trade truce, Taiwan, AI and wider geopolitical tensions dominate talks between world’s two biggest economies]]>
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				<![CDATA[Chinese President Xi Jinping is in Washington for a state visit at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, opening a high-stakes round of diplomacy between the leaders of the world&rsquo;s two largest economies as the Chinese leader said their two countries should be &ldquo;partners, not rivals&rdquo; because the interests of their two peoples &ldquo;are deeply intertwined.&rdquo;



Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday afternoon for a state visit to the United States at the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump https://t.co/A8ZhoSuOIo pic.twitter.com/hijqUp1zAF
&mdash; China Xinhua News (@XHNews) September 24, 2026


Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, were greeted by Trump and first lady Melania Trump at Joint Base Andrews in an unusually elaborate planeside welcome. American children presented flowers to the Chinese couple while honour guards lined the red carpet. The ceremony featured a 21-gun salute, the national anthems of both countries and a military flyover.



US children present flowers to Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan at Joint Base Andrews in the United States, Sept. 23, 2026. PHOTO: XINHUA

Trump&rsquo;s decision to greet Xi personally at the airport marked the first time in 11 years that a US president had welcomed a foreign leader at Joint Base Andrews, according to C-SPAN. Xi&rsquo;s visit is his first to Washington in more than a decade and comes just months after Trump travelled to China in May for talks with the Chinese president.

The exchange of visits underscores the importance both sides attach to maintaining high-level communication despite persistent strategic rivalry.

Xi calls for partnership over rivalry

In a written statement issued after his arrival, Xi called on China and the United States to be &ldquo;partners, not rivals&rdquo;, saying the interests of the two peoples were deeply intertwined. &ldquo;China and the United States should be partners, not rivals,&rdquo; Xi said, adding that the rejuvenation of China and Trump&rsquo;s goal of &ldquo;making America great again&rdquo; could proceed alongside each other. He said the two countries could help each other succeed while contributing to global well-being.

Read: China says opposes &#39;illegal unilateral sanctions&#39; as US pressures Iran with secondary sanctions

Xi also referred to the understanding reached during Trump&rsquo;s May visit to China to build a &ldquo;constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability&rdquo;. He said the agreement had provided strategic guidance for the future development of bilateral relations.

The Chinese president said Washington and Beijing should work in the same direction and pursue a relationship in which cooperation remained the mainstay, competition was moderate and differences were manageable.



Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump standing for a photo on the red carpet. PHOTO: XINHUA

He said the two countries needed to find the &ldquo;right way to get along in the new era&rdquo;, arguing that although the world was changing, the historical logic of peaceful coexistence between China and the United States remained unchanged.

Xi said he looked forward to detailed discussions with Trump on bilateral relations and the international situation, as well as to expanding exchanges and cooperation in different fields. He also said he hoped to engage with people from different sections of American society to strengthen ties between the two peoples.



A gun salute is fired to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews for a state visit to the United States at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, September 23, 2026. PHOTO: XINHUA

Trade truce hangs over summit

The summit comes against a backdrop of intense economic competition and a fragile trade truce between Washington and Beijing.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday, following talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, that an agreement suspending a trade war had been extended until January 10. The confrontation had previously seen mutual tariffs rise above 100%, according to the material supplied for the report.

The extension could provide temporary relief to businesses while giving negotiators additional time to address unresolved trade disputes.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has said Washington and Beijing are expected to make announcements concerning agriculture and non-tariff barriers. China is also reportedly making progress on a commitment to purchase 200 Boeing aircraft, although no additional orders were indicated as imminent.

People familiar with the plans said the discussions could also produce agreements on reducing some tariffs, combating drug trafficking and expanding military-to-military communication. Trump is also expected to raise the issue of Americans and others detained in China.

AI emerges as new area for cooperation

Artificial intelligence is another potential area of discussion. Officials from both countries have explored mechanisms to prevent AI-related incidents from escalating into wider conflicts.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has referred to the possibility of a mechanism comparable to the Cold War-era hotline, intended to avert dangerous incidents involving increasingly powerful technologies.

Read more: China&#39;s Xi to visit the US this week, with bilateral ties, trade, world peace on agenda

The guest list for Thursday&rsquo;s state dinner reflects the importance of technology and business ties. It includes senior executives from Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, OpenAI, Tesla and Nvidia.

Taiwan remains key flashpoint

Beyond trade and technology, Taiwan remains one of the most sensitive issues confronting the two governments.

Sources briefed on the discussions told Reuters that Xi was expected to press Trump to halt US arms sales to Taiwan, potentially during a planned visit by the two leaders to the US National Archives on Friday.

Trump had said after the May summit that he was holding an arms package worth about $14 billion in abeyance, describing it as a negotiating tool.

Iran war adds geopolitical pressure

The leaders are also expected to discuss the war with Iran, which has disrupted energy supplies and trade. The wider geopolitical environment adds pressure to the summit.

For Trump, the Washington meeting comes at the end of a week of diplomacy that began with his two-day stay in New York for the UN General Assembly. The supplied material says the nearly seven-month war with Iran has pushed up energy prices in the United States, while Republicans face difficult congressional elections in November.

Analysts expect the immediate results to centre on extending the trade truce and possibly establishing cooperation on AI-related risks. Former US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell characterised the summit as an opportunity for the two leaders to project strength as much as a forum for substantive negotiations.

The two leaders could have another opportunity to meet later this year, potentially on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in China in November or the G20 meetings in the United States in December.

Deep economic ties constrain rivalry

The summit comes at a pivotal moment in China-US relations and could provide an opportunity to place bilateral ties on a more stable footing. Xi&rsquo;s visit, coming only months after Trump&rsquo;s trip to China, marks a rare exchange of visits between the two leaders within a short period and could open a new chapter in relations, although a single meeting is unlikely to resolve the countries&rsquo; longstanding disputes.



Chinese President Xi Jinping is welcomed upon his arrival in the United States on September 23, 2026. PHOTO: XINHUA

Economic and trade ties remain a major pillar of the relationship despite Washington&rsquo;s protectionist policies. More than 7,000 Chinese enterprises operate in the United States, while US companies have established more than 84,000 enterprises in China. Bilateral trade and investment support millions of jobs in the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;Iran may expand war to Indian Ocean if US attacks again: supreme leader&#39;s adviser

A 2026 survey by the US-China Business Council found that 95% of respondents described their China operations as somewhat to very important to maintaining global competitiveness. The figures underscore the depth of commercial links between the two economies and the continuing interests of businesses in maintaining access to each other&rsquo;s markets.

Economic differences, meanwhile, could be addressed through continued consultations based on equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit. Turning trade and economic ties into instruments of political or security competition risks fracturing supply chains, distorting markets and raising costs for businesses and consumers.

Greater stability does not necessarily mean eliminating competition. The challenge for both sides is to manage competition through established rules while preventing disputes from escalating into confrontation.

Taiwan tests broader relationship

Taiwan remains a central concern in the bilateral relationship. Beijing regards the Taiwan question as a core interest, while Washington maintains its own longstanding policy toward Taipei. How the two governments manage their differences over the island will remain a key test for the broader relationship.

People-to-people exchanges could provide another avenue for stabilising ties. Xi proposed in 2023 that 50,000 young Americans be invited to China over five years for exchanges and study, a target that was reached ahead of schedule this year.

Global stakes extend beyond Washington and Beijing

Beyond their immediate bilateral interests, the two countries&rsquo; ability to maintain a stable relationship carries wider implications. As the world&rsquo;s two largest economies, their cooperation or confrontation can affect global trade, supply chains, investment, technology and international efforts to address common challenges.

The Washington summit therefore offers both leaders an opportunity to keep dialogue open, manage differences and explore areas of practical cooperation, even as major disagreements over trade, Taiwan, technology and strategic competition remain unresolved.

With additional input from agencies]]>
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			<title>India's 'cockroach' movement says will launch protest if poll panel chief doesn't quit in 48 hours</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631170/indias-cockroach-movement-says-will-launch-protest-if-poll-panel-chief-doesnt-quit-in-48-hours</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631170/indias-cockroach-movement-says-will-launch-protest-if-poll-panel-chief-doesnt-quit-in-48-hours#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 09:57:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Election ​Commission ⁠of India says differences are normal in any ⁠institution ​and that all ​its actions are legal]]>
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				<![CDATA[India&#39;s &#39;Cockroach&#39; youth movement leaders said on Thursday ​that they would launch &zwnj;protests across the country if India&#39;s chief election officer does ​not resign in ​48 hours, a day after ⁠a newspaper report pointed ​to differences among top officers ​leading the poll panel.

The Indian Express newspaper said on Wednesday that ​two election commissioners had ​raised questions or expressed concern at &zwnj;least ⁠14 times in 10 months, mostly in connection with the process of updating ​voters&#39; lists ​that ⁠began last year, with Chief Election Commissioner ​Gyanesh Kumar.

The Election ​Commission ⁠of India said that differences were normal in any ⁠institution ​and that all ​its actions were legal.

In July, Indian youth protesters called off ​weeks of demonstrations and celebrated in the streets after the education minister quit and Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s government bowed to demands including calls to fix &zwnj;a cheating-prone exam system.

The worst political crisis of Modi&#39;s third term in office had peaked when thousands of protesters marched on parliament, with police using tear gas to control them.

Youths calling themselves &quot;cockroaches&quot; had taken to the streets since late June, after national exam papers were leaked, forcing a resit which affected 2 million students and galvanised anger about the lack of prospects for young ​Indians.

The resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the students&#39; primary demand, came as a surprise because Modi has a reputation for refusing to act under pressure.

Read: Actor Imran Khan, singer Arijit Singh join celebrities backing New Delhi student protests

Modi&#39;s party faces key state ​elections next year. Similar youth-led protest movements brought down governments in neighbouring Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh in recent years.

Celebrations erupted at the Jantar Mantar protest site ⁠in the capital Delhi, with thousands of youngsters chanting victory slogans and dancing.

The youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement, which spearheaded the demonstrations, said it would end its protests.

Roads around the central business district of Connaught Place ​near the protest site were shut amid celebrations and a swelling crowd of thousands of protesters.

Health Minister JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, a junior minister in Modi&#39;s office, held a joint press conference with two CJP spokespersons after another round of talks following Pradhan&#39;s resignation.

Nadda said the government had accepted all demands of the protesters, which included reforms in the exam system, dropping police cases filed against protesters and compensating families of students who ​died by suicide after the exam paper leaks.

&quot;The Cockroach Janta Party declares that we withdraw the agitation in good faith,&quot; CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said.]]>
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			<title>Google plans first test of AI chips in space under Project Suncatcher</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631216/google-plans-first-test-of-ai-chips-in-space-under-project-suncatcher</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631216/google-plans-first-test-of-ai-chips-in-space-under-project-suncatcher#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 16:11:51 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631216</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Google said it tested TPUs at UC Davis but needed orbital tests to assess their performance in space]]>
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				<![CDATA[Alphabet&#39;s Google said on Thursday it will launch a prototype satellite next week in its first in-orbit test of Project Suncatcher, ​a research effort to explore whether space could potentially host &zwnj;large-scale AI computing infrastructure.

Companies including SpaceX and Starcloud are pursuing plans to deploy data centers in low Earth orbit, aiming to harness near-continuous sunlight to power ​energy-intensive AI computing and sidestep terrestrial constraints on electricity supplies.

The ​new mission, scheduled to fly on SpaceX&#39;s upcoming Transporter-18 rideshare ⁠launch in partnership with satellite company Planet Labs, will assess how ​Google&#39;s AI hardware withstands launch forces, radiation and extreme temperatures in ​LEO.

After the launch, it will send a prototype satellite carrying Google Tensor Processing Units into low Earth orbit to assess if the AI chips can operate reliably ​in space.

Space radiation can disrupt or degrade electronics, including by causing ​data errors known as bit flips.

Read More: Anthropic mulls releasing new AI model

Google said it tested its TPUs while running AI &zwnj;workloads ⁠in a facility at the University of California, Davis, but that orbital testing was needed to understand how the hardware performs in the real environment.

The company will also evaluate its design to cool the power-intensive ​chips in the ​vacuum of ⁠space, where conventional airflow cooling is impossible, by combining heat pipes with radiators.

But experts have said that the ​concept remains years from being commercially viable given ​high launch ⁠costs, engineering constraints and satellite production bottlenecks.

The first Suncatcher mission is designed to gather in-orbit data and identify potential failure points, rather than demonstrate ⁠an ​operational orbital data center, Google said.

It aims ​to launch two satellites in 2027 to test the high-bandwidth laser links needed to connect ​future computing clusters.]]>
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			<title>Amazon bets $3b on India's fast-delivery boom, sources say</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631220/amazon-bets-3b-on-indias-fast-delivery-boom-sources-say</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631220/amazon-bets-3b-on-indias-fast-delivery-boom-sources-say#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 17:13:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631220</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[India's $19 billion quick-commerce market is expected to more than double to $41 billion by 2030]]>
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				<![CDATA[US e-commerce retailer Amazon will invest $3 billion to expand ​its India quick commerce business by 2030, two sources said, its biggest bet yet on a sector where rivals have raced ahead by &zwnj;popularising deliveries within minutes.

The instant deliveries sector, dubbed &quot;quick commerce&quot;, has become a rapidly growing force and reshaped how urban Indians shop for everything from milk and chocolates to iPhones and electronics, which were once only bought from retail stores or major e-commerce websites where deliveries took time.

Walmart&#39;s Flipkart and Amazon, which dominate India&#39;s e-commerce space, are late entrants in quick commerce. The $19 billion sector is set ​to more than double in size to $41 billion by 2030, according to Datum Intelligence.

Amazon plans to invest $1 billion in the quick commerce sector by the ​end of 2027, and another $2 billion by 2030, two people with direct knowledge of the plans said. The planned investment has ⁠not previously been reported.

Amazon declined to comment on the planned investment numbers. The retailer, however, said its quick commerce business has crossed $1 billion in annualised gross sales over ​the past three months, &quot;making it the fastest-growing e-commerce business in Amazon India&#39;s history.&quot;

More small neighborhood warehouses 

A key focus of the planned investment will be adding new small neighbourhood ​warehouses to the current Amazon Now service network from where deliveries are shipped quickly, said both sources, who declined to be identified as the plan is confidential.

&quot;Expansion needs money,&quot; the first source said.

Amazon counts India as a key growth market, where it is expanding its data centre, cloud and e-commerce businesses.

Read More: Meta&#39;s Charm gadget carries CEO Zuckerberg&#39;s big AI ambitions

But it also faces India&#39;s tight regulations for foreign e-commerce companies and a pending 2024 case ​in which it was found by the antitrust watchdog to have given preference to select sellers in breach of the law &mdash; allegations it denies.

The sector&#39;s rise since ​2022 coincided with growing concerns about rider safety as bikers zip through residential areas to deliver orders fast. India&#39;s government in January ordered companies to stop promoting such operations as &quot;10-minute&quot; services.

Domestic giants Eternal&#39;s Blinkit, &zwnj;Swiggy and ⁠IPO-bound Zepto control 77% of the market, together operating more than 4,500 stores, while Walmart&#39;s Flipkart has more than 1,000 and an 11% market share, Datum data shows.

Amazon has only a 6.2% market share. The first source said Amazon was targeting around 1,300 stores by April next year, from around 750 now.

Daily essentials focus with challenges

The other key areas of spending, the first person added, will be strengthening inventory management software at stores, deploying AI tools for demand prediction and expanding product selection.

&quot;The focus will ​be daily essentials. If the order is ​unlikely to be repeated, Amazon does ⁠not plan to stock it right now in quick commerce,&quot; said the person, explaining why Amazon does not stock iPhones like its quick commerce rivals.

Bernstein in a July note warned that groceries alone cannot cover the high costs of quick commerce as average ​order values are low, and &quot;non-grocery items carry higher prices and higher margins.&quot;

Amazon does not agree with critics who say it ​missed the bus, one ⁠of the sources said. The company wanted to get the model right, such as having a cold storage room in each store and not just a refrigerator.

Satish Meena, founder of Datum Intelligence, said it will not be easy for Amazon to catch up with rivals who offer quality service and have loyal customers, but it could lure their shopping website ⁠customers to ​fast deliveries.

The Amazon Now service, which sits within the main Amazon app, is currently offering a ​20% cashback discount on some initial orders above 499 rupees ($5.20), and free delivery above 99 rupees ($1) for select customers.

&quot;It took some time for Amazon to commit. There appears to be a realisation that this is ​a model they have to invest in,&quot; Meena said. &quot;They are doing discounts, which can help lure current Amazon customers to quick commerce.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Meta's Charm gadget carries CEO Zuckerberg's big AI ambitions</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631217/metas-charm-gadget-carries-ceo-zuckerbergs-big-ai-ambitions</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631217/metas-charm-gadget-carries-ceo-zuckerbergs-big-ai-ambitions#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 16:36:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Zuckerberg now sees &quot;personal superintelligence&quot; as a bigger breakthrough after his costly metaverse bet faltered]]>
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				<![CDATA[Mark Zuckerberg ​took repeated digs at Apple during Meta&#39;s annual event on Wednesday, only to borrow a page from Steve Jobs&#39; playbook for a surprise &zwnj;reveal: a pocket-watch-sized device that carries Meta&#39;s viral Muse AI agent into the real world.

The device, called Muse Charm, highlights a broader shift at the social media giant that has long sought to escape Apple and Google&#39;s operating systems with a platform of its own. Users can tap the gadget to access Muse directly, bypassing AI apps on smartphones.

Having once championed the metaverse &mdash; the immersive digital world ​that inspired the company&#39;s name change in 2021 &mdash; as the next computing platform, Zuckerberg now sees &quot;personal superintelligence&quot; as the bigger and more immediate breakthrough, after ​his previous costly wager failed.

&quot;It is actually quite clear personal superintelligence will not only come first; it will be much bigger and ⁠more important,&quot; Zuckerberg said at the company&#39;s annual Meta Connect conference.

&quot;So we have shifted our focus to building the best devices for personal superintelligence,&quot; he said, adding that ​Muse would also soon be available across Meta&#39;s smart glasses lineup.

The remarks follow a blockbuster few days for Muse, which has drawn millions of downloads in what some analysts have ​said could be the biggest app launch in the US since ChatGPT arrived in November 2022 and kicked off the AI boom.

Investors have embraced Muse&#39;s potential to automate tasks ranging from booking flights to filing taxes, lifting shares of partners such as Shopify while dumping companies seen as vulnerable to disruption, including online travel agency Booking and TurboTax software creator Intuit.

Read More: German court rules Meta liable for fake ads on Instagram, Facebook

Meta shares climbed more than ​3% on Thursday after rising nearly 24% since the launch of Muse on September 8. The company was on track to add about $56 billion in market value, after ​gaining roughly $324 billion through Wednesday&#39;s close.

May appeal to Gen Z, mass adoption difficult

Muse Charm could resonate with younger consumers at a time when digital cameras, flip phones and MP3 players are enjoying &zwnj;nostalgic comebacks, ⁠analysts say.

Gen Z consumers, aged about 14 to 29, treat AI assistants as companions or brainstorming partners rather than simply search tools. Many interact with technology through voice notes, short videos and AI chatbots, unlike older users who are often more comfortable with PCs and smartphone apps.

&quot;Muse Charm could find some traction among Gen Z and younger consumers. The combination of AI, fashion and personalization could appeal to younger users, especially if it is affordable and easy to use,&quot; said Linda Sui, founder of Smart Analytics Global, ​a market research firm.

The device features a ​roughly 2-inch (5-cm) screen that can be navigated ⁠with a thumb, with a customizable Muse character at its center. A built-in 5G modem allows access to Muse even without Wi-Fi, though it cannot make calls.

&quot;They are appealing to people who might not want to wear glasses or might not trust glasses,&quot; ​said IDC director Jitesh Ubrani.

&quot;Some people might remember Tamagotchi and this might evoke that,&quot; Ubrani said, referring to colorful virtual ​pets that became a ⁠cultural phenomenon in the late 1990s. &quot;They might be able to run a small language model locally. So you can run AI on such a small package.&quot;

Whether Muse can sustain its momentum and the device can amplify that appeal is a question for the months ahead.

Similar devices have had limited success. The Rabbit R1, a handheld generative AI device from startup Rabbit ⁠Inc with ​a screen and a button, had a buzzy launch in early 2024 only to flop because it ​overpromised on AI features and delivered an unreliable experience.

&quot;I would be cautious about its mass-market potential,&quot; Sui said. &quot;Unless Muse Charm can offer unique functions that smartphones, watches, earbuds or smart glasses cannot easily replace, it is ​more likely to remain a nice-to-have device for early adopters than become a mainstream product.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Hacked FBI data has sensitive information about employees’ intelligence roles</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631214/hacked-fbi-data-has-sensitive-information-about-employees-intelligence-roles</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631214/hacked-fbi-data-has-sensitive-information-about-employees-intelligence-roles#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 15:36:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category><category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631214</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[FBI says it is aware of a cyber-criminal enterprise group claiming a compromise of the FBIJobs.gov portal]]>
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				<![CDATA[FBI data allegedly stolen by the hacking group ShinyHunters carries granular detail about scores of bureau officials&rsquo; ​job assignments, including sensitive work against Chinese spies, Russian intelligence, drug cartels, and more, Reuters has found.

The 5,000-line spreadsheet &mdash;&nbsp;said by the hackers to represent only a small piece of &zwnj;their claimed two- to three-terabyte trove &mdash;&nbsp;includes names, addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and emergency contact details for what they claimed were thousands of FBI employees. It also includes details of assignments to specific field offices and, in some cases, to units engaged in high-stakes intelligence, security, or counterespionage work.

In a statement, the FBI said it was aware of &quot;a cyber-criminal enterprise group claiming a compromise of the FBIJobs.gov portal and alleged impact to FBI employee personally identifiable information&quot;.

The bureau ​said the cause of the breach was still undetermined, but that it was &quot;actively and aggressively investigating the matter&quot;.

The hackers said that they had breached the FBI, stealing data on a ​large number of current and former FBI employees. ShinyHunters said it is holding the data hostage until the bureau rescinds an unflattering statement about the group issued ⁠in May.

Read: FBI chief discusses specialised training to combat counterterrorism financing with Naqvi, hails &#39;critical&#39; Pak-US partnership

Former FBI counterintelligence operative Eric O&rsquo;Neill said the data allegedly stolen by ShinyHunters was &ldquo;a foreign intelligence service goldmine&rdquo;.

&ldquo;China would be incredibly interested to know the individuals who are working against it,&rdquo; said O&rsquo;Neill, who founded ​the cybersecurity company Nexasure AI after his stint at the bureau. He predicted that other hostile intelligence services would be eager to get their hands on the data, along with disgruntled extremists in the United States.

&ldquo;If I ​were on that list, I would be very concerned,&rdquo; he said.

ShinyHunters said in a statement on Wednesday that it was trying to keep the personnel information from circulating widely in the meantime.

&ldquo;If the 5,000 sample data records leak, it&rsquo;s not because of us,&rdquo; the group said.

Although Reuters has not been able to authenticate the entire spreadsheet, it has been able to individually verify the details of more than 22 people by cross-referencing information in the hacked data with credit records and previous data leaks ​carried by the dark web intelligence platform District 4 Labs.

Counterterrorism, counterintelligence and surveillance

Some of the assignment details in the ShinyHunters&rsquo; data are indistinguishable from what employees themselves might say publicly, noting agents at field offices in ​Baltimore or Newark, New Jersey, for example.

But in some cases, the data referred to FBI units or initiatives that were sensitive or whose existence has not previously been disclosed.

The data names 14 staffers focused on China-related matters, including members &zwnj;of the &ldquo;China criminal ⁠enterprise unit&rdquo;, the &ldquo;China tech transfer analysis unit&rdquo; and the &ldquo;China intelligence section&rdquo;.

Nine others are listed as serving in Russia-related roles, including two in the &ldquo;Russia Operations Section&rdquo; and one working on &ldquo;Russia Critical Infra and Tech Threat&rdquo;. Three people are listed as working in Iran- or Hezbollah-focused intelligence roles.

Eighteen others are listed as working with &ldquo;data intercept&rdquo; or &ldquo;telecom intercept&rdquo; technologies, or in the FBI&rsquo;s &ldquo;clandestine technical operations&rdquo; unit, or its &ldquo;covert access section&rdquo; or in video, audio, or electronic surveillance roles.

A further 11 FBI staffers are listed as working in HUMINT, or human intelligence, jobs, including several listed as working in the &ldquo;Humint programme management section&rdquo;.

Read more: &lsquo;Extreme concern&rsquo; as OpenAI&rsquo;s &lsquo;rogue agent&rsquo; breached Australian govt health database

Trevor Hilligoss, a former army investigator who worked with the FBI, said ​the information tying specific named people to human intelligence ​work was particularly troubling.

&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to look ⁠far to find examples of undercover agents being harmed when their cover is blown,&rdquo; he said.

Hilligoss, now the chief intelligence officer for cybersecurity company SpyCloud, said his concerns were heightened by the inclusion of emergency contacts &mdash;&nbsp;often spouses or children &mdash;&nbsp;&ldquo;who may have less operational security knowledge than their relative that works in a sensitive ​field&rdquo;.

Reuters could not verify that all the job assignments were authentic or up-to-date, but it was able to match the career details or titles of eight ​people whose data was leaked ⁠to information in court filings, news articles, or public profiles on LinkedIn or to online posts on sites such as Instagram.

Other targets

ShinyHunters previously claimed credit for the purported theft of millions of business records from video game developer Rockstar Games, the maker of &quot;Grand Theft Auto&quot;, and an intrusion focused on the education tool Canvas that triggered widespread disruption across US schools.

In May, the FBI said ShinyHunters sometimes used &ldquo;exaggerated claims of access to sensitive or personal information to prompt payment from ⁠victims&rdquo;.

ShinyHunters said ​its &quot;threats and claims are very real&rdquo;, adding that the FBI&#39;s statement was why it targeted the bureau.

Reuters has not been able to ​verify what else the hackers are holding. ShinyHunters previously told Reuters they obtained files related to the vetting of employees and applicants, the contracting of background investigations, and agents&#39; sensitive medical data, but said on Wednesday it would not release any further data.

O&rsquo;Neill, the ​former FBI operative, cautioned against drawing conclusions about what the hackers hold.

&ldquo;They&rsquo;re really trying to scare the hell out of the FBI,&rdquo; he noted.]]>
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			<title>‘Extreme concern’ as OpenAI’s ‘rogue agent’ breached Australian govt health database</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631176/extreme-concern-as-openais-rogue-agent-breached-australian-govt-health-database</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631176/extreme-concern-as-openais-rogue-agent-breached-australian-govt-health-database#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:12:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[NEWSDESK  ]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631176</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Model accessed public, non-public files during June evaluation; Canberra says no patient records were compromised ]]>
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				<![CDATA[An artificial intelligence (AI) agent developed by US tech giant OpenAI breached an Australian government health statistics system during an internal evaluation, accessing both public and non-public files and writing files into the system, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday.

According to CNN, the incident is believed to be the first publicly disclosed case of an AI agent breaching an Australian government network and comes amid growing concern over the ability of increasingly autonomous AI systems to circumvent safeguards and undertake actions beyond those intended by their human operators.

Albanese said the AI agent had accessed an Australian Medicare statistics database and bypassed restrictions after failing to obtain information through normal channels. He said there was no evidence that patients&rsquo; personal medical information had been accessed.

&ldquo;Nonetheless, this situation is obviously unacceptable,&rdquo; Albanese told reporters on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The prime minister said he had spoken by telephone with OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman on Wednesday to convey Australia&rsquo;s &ldquo;extreme concern&rdquo; over the incident.

Albanese also criticised the company for the delay in notifying Australian authorities. According to the government, OpenAI discovered the activity in August but did not inform Canberra until September 10, when it sent an email to a generic government mailbox.

Read: AI leaders warn UN of security risks as systems grow more powerful

&ldquo;It took the company way too long to inform the government what had occurred, and the nature of the way that notification occurred as well was unacceptable,&rdquo; Albanese said.

The disclosure came as governments, technology companies and researchers grapple with the security implications of AI agents capable of independently browsing the internet, executing tasks and adapting their behaviour when they encounter restrictions.

AI agent &lsquo;scaled the fence&rsquo;

The breach occurred in June while OpenAI was conducting an internal evaluation of its models, according to the company and Australian officials.

The model had been asked to search the internet for information about Australian government spending on medicines and healthcare, including statistics that could be used to answer questions about public expenditure.

When it encountered restrictions on the information it could access, however, the AI agent attempted to circumvent them, Australian officials said.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles described the behaviour in unusually simple terms. &ldquo;It asked a question, the information was not given and rather than leaving at that point, it scaled the fence,&rdquo; Marles said.

OpenAI spokesman Drew Pusateri said the company became aware of the activity in August while conducting an extensive review of its models&rsquo; activity.

&ldquo;During this review, we identified activity involving several Australian government websites and services as our models attempted to look up answers and available statistics for questions about Australia during an internal evaluation,&rdquo; Pusateri said. &ldquo;In the course of that, our models took actions we did not intend.&rdquo;

OpenAI said its investigation found no evidence that patient records had been accessed in the Medicare incident. The information accessed included aggregate health statistics and internal file names, according to the company.

Australian officials said the breach involved an older health statistics website rather than a system containing individual medical records.

Government Services Minister Katy Gallagher said the notification from OpenAI was sent to a public mailbox that was checked only once a day.

&ldquo;That email address is looked at once a day,&rdquo; Gallagher said, adding that such mailboxes can receive large numbers of notifications, including hoaxes.

The delay has become a central concern for Canberra because the government was not immediately aware that an AI system had penetrated restricted areas of a government service.

Other government systems examined

Albanese said three other government systems may also have been affected by AI activity.

They included the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and the Victorian Department of Health.

The Australian government said there was no indication that the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare system had been breached, although the website was among those targeted. A forensic investigation, assisted by the Australian Signals Directorate, is now examining the incident and determining whether any other government systems were affected.

Marles announced a taskforce investigation and sought to reassure the public that the impact appeared to be limited. &ldquo;No individuals&rsquo; medical data was accessed here.

The system itself has not been in any way compromised,&rdquo; he said.

The investigation is nevertheless significant because the incident involved an AI system acting beyond the boundaries of the task it had been assigned. Rather than simply searching publicly available information, the model attempted to overcome technical restrictions when it could not find the information it wanted. That behaviour has heightened concerns among cybersecurity specialists that AI agents could increasingly become capable of finding and exploiting vulnerabilities without being explicitly instructed to do so.

Earlier incidents emerge

The Australian breach was disclosed at the same time as research organisation Transluce reported several earlier instances in which AI agents apparently attempted to exploit computer systems after failing to obtain information through conventional web searches.

The incidents, dating back to at least March, suggest that the phenomenon may have emerged earlier than some of the high-profile cases disclosed by AI companies in recent months.

Transluce said the incidents it identified involved relatively mundane research tasks rather than deliberate cyberattacks.

Read more: Anthropic, OpenEvidence partner to bring medical AI worldwide

In May, AI agents attempting to retrieve a photograph from a University of New Mexico library collection sent a &ldquo;flood&rdquo; of requests but were unsuccessful.

Later that month, agents targeted Data USA while attempting to obtain visualisation data relating to the University of Iowa.

In June, agents seeking statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare attempted to exploit vulnerabilities after normal methods failed. Transluce said no non-public data was exposed, although the agents bypassed anti-bot controls.

The Australian government acknowledged that AIHW was among the sites targeted but said it did not believe a breach had occurred.

Hugging Face breach raised alarm

The latest revelations follow a more serious incident disclosed by OpenAI in July, when the company said its models had created a swarm of AI agents during cybersecurity testing that breached systems belonging to Hugging Face, a platform widely used by AI developers to store and share code and models.

The models were operating in what was intended to be a controlled testing environment but managed to escape the restrictions placed on them and access real-world systems.

The incident became a prominent example in the AI industry of the potential risks associated with increasingly autonomous systems.

Other major AI developers have since reported similar concerns.

Anthropic said its models had gained unauthorised access to systems belonging to three unidentified organisations during testing intended to prevent them from interacting with real-world systems.

Google has also said its Gemini model was able to gain access to multiple systems by guessing login credentials.

The incidents have contributed to growing calls for stronger safeguards as AI systems move from answering questions to independently carrying out complex tasks across the internet.

Walayat Hussain, an associate professor of information technology at Australian Catholic University in Sydney, said the Australian incident and the earlier Hugging

Face breach appeared to form part of a broader pattern.

&ldquo;Today&rsquo;s AI agents are becoming brilliant at getting things done, but they are still poor at knowing where the line is,&rdquo; he said.

Hussain said companies and governments could not assume that AI systems would reliably police their own behaviour, while warning that many government systems had not been designed with sophisticated autonomous AI agents in mind.

For Canberra, the immediate focus remains on determining precisely what the OpenAI system accessed and whether any other government infrastructure was affected.

Albanese said Australia&rsquo;s investigation would establish the full extent of the incident, while the government would also examine OpenAI&rsquo;s handling of the disclosure.

The episode has added a new dimension to the debate over AI safety: not simply whether increasingly powerful models can be prevented from generating harmful content, but whether autonomous agents can be reliably constrained when given access to real-world computer systems.

The Australian government has so far stressed that no individual medical records were accessed. But the incident has raised questions about whether existing safeguards, monitoring systems and notification procedures are adequate as AI agents become increasingly capable of acting independently online.

(With additional input from agencies)]]>
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			<title>Pakistan conquer China to keep winning run</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631195/pakistan-conquer-china-to-keep-winning-run</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631195/pakistan-conquer-china-to-keep-winning-run#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 12:43:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Sports Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631195</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Green-shirts seal third straight victory to join Malaysia at the summit]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan extended their winning run in the men&rsquo;s hockey competition at the Asian Games with a 3-0 victory over China on Thursday, strengthening their position in Pool B.

Pakistan scored all three goals in a dominant second quarter at Kawasaki Juko Stadium, with Abu Mahmood, Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid finding the net in a nine-minute spell.

Mahmood opened the scoring in the 19th minute from a penalty stroke before Sufyan doubled Pakistan&rsquo;s advantage five minutes later with a penalty corner conversion.



Hannan Shahid completed the scoring in the 28th minute as Pakistan took a commanding 3-0 lead into the remainder of the match.

The victory was Pakistan&rsquo;s third in succession at the Games after they opened their campaign with a 9-0 win over Thailand before beating Uzbekistan 5-1.

The result gives Pakistan nine points, leaving them level with pool leaders Malaysia. China were unable to respond after Pakistan&rsquo;s second-quarter burst.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan crash out of kabaddi medal race</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631199/pakistan-crash-out-of-kabaddi-title-race</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631199/pakistan-crash-out-of-kabaddi-title-race#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 12:52:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Sports Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631199</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[This is the first time that Green-shirts will return empty-handed from Asian Games]]>
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				<![CDATA[It was a disappointing day for Pakistan&rsquo;s kabaddi at the Asian Games in Japan on Thursday.

The Green-shirts were eliminated when Iran defeated them 51-30 in their Group B match at the continental event in Aichi-Nagoya.

This was the second defeat tasted by Pakistan following an upset loss at the hands of Thailand on Wednesday.

Since making their debut in 1990 Beijing Asian Games Pakistan never returned empty-handed. Pakistan had won two silver and seven bronze medals in their previous nine editions of the Asian Games.

&ldquo;Yes it&rsquo;s unfortunate,&rdquo; Pakistan Kabaddi Federation&rsquo;s (PKF) secretary Mohammad Sarwar told The Express Tribune following Pakistan&rsquo;s loss.

Pakistan led 14-20 at halftime but struggled to contain Iran after the break.

Iran scored 31 points in the second half compared with Pakistan&rsquo;s 16, turning a six-point halftime deficit into a 21-point winning margin..

Iran&rsquo;s second-half surge proved decisive as Pakistan were unable to maintain the momentum they had built before the interval.

Iran and Thailand have qualified for the semi-finals from this group.

Now in the semi-finals on Friday Iran will meet Chinese Taipei while India will lock horns with Thailand.]]>
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			<title>Farhan sets sights on Asian Games cricket gold</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631175/farhan-sets-sights-on-asian-games-cricket-gold</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631175/farhan-sets-sights-on-asian-games-cricket-gold#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:09:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Sports Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631175</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s brigade trains for Japan’s conditions, with spin to play a key role]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Asian Games-bound men&rsquo;s cricket team captain Sahibzada Farhan on Thursday said that he is confident his charges can win gold at the continental event.

However he stressed that the side would not allow a potential clash with India to overshadow its wider campaign in Japan.

Farhan said Pakistan have a balanced squad featuring several promising young players and would approach every match with equal importance.

&ldquo;We will try our best to claim gold for Pakistan,&rdquo; Farhan told reporters at the National Stadium.

Farhan was happy with the way his charges have undergone training for the past four days.

&ldquo;As a captain I am happy that all boys are working hard. We had requested for such pitches keeping in view Japan&rsquo;s conditions and we also tried to play against spinners mostly. Haider Ali is in fine touch along with Abdul Samad and I am happy that all boys look in good shape,&rdquo; Farhan said.

Pakistan are scheduled to arrive in Japan two days before their campaign begins, with Farhan saying the early arrival would allow the players to adjust to the local weather and conditions.

&ldquo;We are focused on our first match. Every team is important for us and we will give equal importance to all our matches,&rdquo; he said.

Farhan said Pakistan cricket team would not make the India fixture the sole focus of its Asian Games campaign, despite the significance traditionally attached to matches between the two countries.

&ldquo;Our focus will be on each match rather than only the game against India,&rdquo; he said.

Farhan also praised solid talent in the squad, identifying Saim Ayub, Maaz Sadaqat and Hasan Nawaz among players who could become important figures for the national team.

He said strong performances at the Asian Games could help emerging players secure more opportunities in the future.

&ldquo;These players are a ray of hope for Pakistan,&rdquo; Farhan said, adding that consistent performances in Japan could open the door to further opportunities at international level.

Pakistan have also tailored their preparations to the unusual playing conditions they are expected to encounter in Japan.

Farhan revealed that head coach Mike Hesson had travelled to Japan to inspect the rugby ground where the cricket matches are scheduled to be played and had discussed various aspects of the venue and conditions with the players and coaching staff.

The team&rsquo;s four-day training camp in Karachi also took the expected conditions into account, he said.

The captain also stressed the importance of domestic cricket in developing Pakistan&rsquo;s players and urged those who struggle at international level to return to domestic competition rather than allowing their form to deteriorate.

&ldquo;Players who are unsuccessful at international level should go back and play domestic cricket,&rdquo; he said.

Farhan said regular domestic cricket could help players sharpen their skills and regain confidence before attempting to return to the international stage.

The Asian Games will also represent an important leadership opportunity for Farhan, who said he remained optimistic about his own role while making clear that his priority was to contribute through his performances.

&ldquo;I am very hopeful as captain. Whether I remain captain or not, my priority is to maintain consistency in my performance,&rdquo; he said.

Farhan added that he would seek to repay the confidence shown in him by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

&ldquo;I will try to live up to the PCB&rsquo;s trust,&rdquo; he said.]]>
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			<title>Shahzad smashes Pakistan’s fastest first-class century</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631179/shahzad-smashes-pakistans-fastest-first-class-century</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631179/shahzad-smashes-pakistans-fastest-first-class-century#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:27:01 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Sports Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631179</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[PTV batsman reaches 100 off 49 balls, breaking Misbah’s record for the fastest first-class ton by a Pakistani batsman]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Television batsman Muhammad Shahzad on Thursday scored the fastest first-class century, reaching the milestone in just 49 balls on the opening day of the President&rsquo;s Trophy third round against Kingsmen Academy at the Diamond Club Ground in Islamabad.

Dera Ghazi Khan-born Shahzad surpassed the previous record held by former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq, who had scored a 56-ball century against Australia in 2014.

The century is also the world&#39;s eighth-fastest in domestic first-class cricket history.

Shahzad went on to score 114 off 62 balls, smashing 12 fours and eight sixes. The innings marked his sixth first-class century which also enabled PTV reach 285-7 in their first innings.

Mohammad Taha hit 43 off 72 deliveries, including six fours, while Yasir Khan made 13 off 40 balls with one boundary. Sharoon Siraj contributed 16 off 46 deliveries, hitting three fours, while Ammar and Waqar Hussain scored five and two runs respectively.]]>
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			<title>Noor Zaman, Irfan reach Asian Games squash quarter-finals</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631145/noor-zaman-irfan-reach-asian-games-squash-quarter-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631145/noor-zaman-irfan-reach-asian-games-squash-quarter-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 07:12:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Alam Zeb Safi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s mixed doubles pair Asim Khan and Mehwish Ali also advances while Nasir Iqbal and Sehrish Ali suffer defeat]]>
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				<![CDATA[&nbsp;Pakistan&rsquo;s Noor Zaman and Mohammad Ashab Irfan advanced to the quarter-finals of the men&rsquo;s singles squash competition at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya on Thursday with straight-game victories.

Noor defeated Kuwait&rsquo;s Ammar Altamimi 11-4, 11-9, 11-4 to secure his second successive win and a place in the last eight.

Ashab Irfan also produced a comfortable performance, beating Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Mohammad Al Nasfan 11-9, 11-3, 11-5.

Both Pakistanis will contest their quarter-finals on Friday.

Pakistan also advanced in the mixed doubles, with Asim Khan and Mehwish Ali recovering from a first-game defeat to beat Japan&rsquo;s Erisa Sano and Naoki Hayashi 8-11, 11-10, 11-4.

The Pakistani pair will face Hong Kong&rsquo;s Toby Lam Ye Tsee and Nam Cheuk Lai in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Pakistan&rsquo;s other mixed doubles pair, Nasir Iqbal and Sehrish Ali, were eliminated after losing 11-2, 11-6 to Hong Kong&rsquo;s Hong Ming Tong and Ye Ka Lee in the pre-quarter-finals.

Meanwhile Pakistan&rsquo;s Maria Rind faced early exit in women&rsquo;s boxing 51kg preliminaries when she went down to Yesugen Oyuntsetseg of Mongolia through RSC in the third round.

This is the second casualty which Pakistan faced after Sumama Rahman lost his first bout the other day.

The Glasgow Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Fatima Zehra will face Mijgoma Samadova of Tajikistan in the 60kg preliminaries on Saturday. Earlier on the same day, in the 90kg preliminaries, Irfan Khan will meet Gichae Kim of South Korea.

Pakistan have fielded two male and the same number of female boxers in the event.

Pakistan have last won a medal in the Asian Games in 2014 when now pro Mohammad Waseem had clinched bronze.

&nbsp;]]>
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			<title>Pakistan carries out strikes on 10 Afghan locations after drone attacks: Attaullah Tarar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631132/pakistan-carries-out-strikes-on-10-afghan-sites-after-drone-attack-attaullah-tarar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631132/pakistan-carries-out-strikes-on-10-afghan-sites-after-drone-attack-attaullah-tarar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 05:10:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631132</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Says Pakistan, in exercise of sovereign right to self-defence, conducted 'precision aerial' strikes on drone sites]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan carried out &quot;precision&quot; aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan after drones launched from Afghan territory entered Pakistani airspace, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said in the early hours of Thursday, describing the strikes as a response to a &ldquo;deliberate and unlawful incursion&rdquo;.

&quot;In exercise of its sovereign right to self-defence, Pakistan conducted precision aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan used for launching and storing these drones. The strikes were deliberate, precise, calibrated and proportionate and strictly limited to identified military objectives directly linked to the attempted attacks against Pakistan,&quot; said Tarar in a post on X.

The strikes were in response to drone attacks from Afghanistan. A day earlier, Pakistan&rsquo;s air defence systems had shot down eight drones after they entered the country&rsquo;s airspace from Afghanistan. Security sources said four of the drones were brought down in areas adjoining the Torkham border, while another four were shot down in mountainous areas near the border with Kohat.

Tarar said the drone incursion on September 23 was a &ldquo;blatant violation&rdquo; of Pakistan&rsquo;s sovereignty and territorial integrity and a &ldquo;grave and unacceptable act of aggression&rdquo;.

&ldquo;Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the deliberate and unlawful incursion into Pakistan by drones on September 23, launched from Afghan territory,&rdquo; he said.

The minister said that Pakistan&rsquo;s Air Defence systems detected, tracked and neutralised all intruding platforms before they could reach any of their intended targets, comprehensively thwarting the attempted attack.

The minister said Pakistan for years had repeatedly conveyed its concerns to the Afghan Taliban regime and its interlocutors over the continued presence of terrorist sanctuaries and support networks on Afghan soil.

&ldquo;Instead of dismantling these networks and taking credible and verifiable action against those using Afghan territory to perpetrate terrorism against Pakistan, the Afghan Taliban regime has chosen to escalate the situation through hostile drone operations against Pakistan,&rdquo; he said.



Update-Ghazab lil Haq

Islamabad, 24 September 2026;

Pakistan condemns in the strongest possible terms the deliberate and unlawful incursion into Pakistan by drones on 23 September 2026, launched from Afghan territory. This constitutes a blatant violation of Pakistan&rsquo;s&hellip;
&mdash; Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) September 24, 2026


Tarar warned that Pakistan would not tolerate attacks launched from Afghan territory, &quot;whether by terrorist groups or by the Afghan Taliban regime itself.&quot;

&ldquo;Any violation of Pakistan&rsquo;s sovereignty will be met with an immediate and decisive response,&rdquo; he added.

Read: Eight drones shot down after entering Pakistan from Afghanistan: security sources

He called on the Afghan Taliban regime to immediately cease all hostile activity against Pakistan and take effective, concrete, verifiable and sustained action against terrorist entities operating from Afghan soil.

&ldquo;Afghan territory must not be used to launch attacks or conduct hostile operations against Pakistan,&rdquo; Tarar said. He added that Pakistan did not seek escalation and remained committed to &ldquo;regional peace, dialogue and constructive engagement&rdquo;.

&ldquo;This commitment must not be mistaken for weakness or an unlimited tolerance of hostile actions,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Pakistan will defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and the lives of its citizens with full resolve and will take all necessary measures to protect them,&rdquo; Tarar added.

In a separate post, Tarar said, &ldquo;Through precise aerial and drone strikes, as seen in the attached clip, terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure, including drone launching and storage sites across 10 locations in areas under the control of the Afghan Taliban regime, were comprehensively destroyed,&rdquo; Tarar said.

&ldquo;Pakistan will continue to defend its territorial integrity and protect the lives and property of its citizens against any externally sponsored, sheltered and abetted threat by terrorist proxies,&rdquo; he added.



Update-Ghazab lil Haq

Islamabad, 24 September 2026;

Through precise aerial and drone strikes as seen in attached clip, terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure including drone launching and storage sites across 10 locations in areas under the control of Afghan Taliban&hellip; pic.twitter.com/6CrgV4SzSw
&mdash; Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) September 24, 2026


8 drones shot down in K-P

The recent tension started between the neighbouring countries after a blast at a mosque in Kohat&rsquo;s Police Lines during Friday prayers, in which 23 people, including 15 police personnel, were martyred. Eight terrorists were also killed during a subsequent search and clearance operation. Later, Ittihadul Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), led by Afghanistan-based Hafiz Gul Bahadur, claimed responsibility for the deadly bombing and rampage involving multiple attackers.

A day later, a captain and a lieutenant were among six martyred during an exchange of fire in Hangu district. Following a series of deadly attacks in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), on September 21, Pakistan carried out &ldquo;calibrated&rdquo; air strikes against terrorist hideouts near the Afghan border and conducted intelligence-based ground operations that killed a total of 37 terrorists.

Read More: Pakistan carries out &#39;calibrated&#39; air strikes against terrorist hideouts

Security forces conducted an intelligence-based ground operation against a group of terrorists in Kohat and Hangu districts. &quot;As a result of precise and skilful engagement, nine khwarij belonging to the Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij were sent to hell, while several were injured.&quot;

The statement said three targets were destroyed in precision strikes, including a training centre for suicide bombers. It said 28 terrorists, along with several suicide bombers, were killed, while large quantities of weapons and ammunition stored at the centres and hideouts were also destroyed.

Previous drone strikes 

Pakistan had reported previous incidents involving drones crossing from Afghanistan into its airspace.

On July 1, security forces had shot down four &ldquo;rudimentary drones&rdquo; launched from Afghanistan into Balochistan on June 30. The military accused the Afghan Taliban regime of supporting terrorist groups operating from territory under its control and warned that further cross-border provocations would draw a strong response.

In March, armed forces intercepted a few rudimentary drones launched by the Afghan Taliban in what officials described as a failed attempt to harass civilian populations, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations.

The military&rsquo;s media wing said the drones were detected and neutralised through a combination of defensive measures before they could reach their intended targets. However, falling debris from the intercepted drones caused injuries to civilians in multiple cities.

Two children were injured in Quetta, while one civilian each sustained injuries in Kohat and Rawalpindi. All injured individuals received medical attention and were reported to be in stable condition.

Pakistan warns Afghanistan

Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns on international forums over terrorist attacks being launched from Afghan soil.

On September 23, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called for &ldquo;concrete and verifiable&rdquo; action to prevent Afghan soil from being used for terrorism against neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan, while addressing the OIC Contact Group on Afghanistan on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

In a separate warning following the terrorist attack in Kohat, Pakistan said it had the &ldquo;will and capability&rdquo; to eliminate terror threats &ldquo;wherever they are&rdquo; and urged the international community to press the Afghan Taliban regime to take decisive action against terrorism.

Attributing the attack to &ldquo;the vilest of Khwarij with roots in Afghanistan&rdquo; the Information Ministry noted that the attack was a reminder that &ldquo;terrorism has no religion and no justification&rdquo;. It added that Islamabad had repeatedly raised &ldquo;grave concerns&rdquo; over the alleged use of Afghan territory by the banned TTP and other terrorist groups to plan and launch attacks inside the country.

&ldquo;The presence of terrorist sanctuaries, alongside their recruitment and support infrastructure in Afghanistan, poses a direct threat to Pakistan&rsquo;s security,&rdquo; the ministry had said. It added that these concerns had repeatedly been conveyed to the Afghan Taliban regime and its interlocutors. &ldquo;They must dismantle these networks rather than deflect responsibility,&rdquo; Pakistan said.

United Nations Security Council report formally implicated the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and terrorist entities operating from Afghanistan, highlighting tactical collaboration and shared operational logistics between the groups.

Member-state reporting confirmed that BLA terrorists were trained alongside TTP members at facilities in Afghanistan, according to the report, which also described growing operational links among various terrorist groups operating across the border.

This was not the first time a UN report pointed to the threat posed by terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. In 2023, a UN report also revealed that the TTP had established a new base in K-P in mid-2023, shedding light on close ties between the TTP and the Afghan Taliban, as well as between the TTP and anti-Pakistani groups and Al Qaeda.

Pak-Afghan tensions

K-P had witnessed a significant rise in militant violence last year, with more than 500 attacks reported, marking a 50% increase compared to the previous year.

The fighting ​between Pakistan and Afghanistan that started in October ​has ⁠killed scores of people on both sides, with Afghans taking the brunt. Islamabad accuses the Afghan Taliban of harbouring ⁠militants ​who launch attacks in Pakistan, ​although Kabul denies this, calling the militancy its neighbour&#39;s domestic problem.

Operation Ghazab Lil Haq was launched around the end of February following renewed clashes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, after Afghan Taliban forces fired on multiple locations, prompting swift military retaliation by Pakistan.

The clashes intensified after Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes targeting terrorist positions. The two sides had agreed to a week-long ceasefire on the eve of Eidul Fitr on March 18, following requests from T&uuml;rkiye, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Also Read: Info ministry rejects Afghan Taliban-linked claims of cross-border drone strikes

Pakistan in April put forth three core demands to the Afghan Taliban during peace talks in Urumqi, China, including Kabul formally declaring the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan a terrorist organisation, dismantling its infrastructure, and providing verifiable proof of the action. These demands form the basis of Pakistan&#39;s negotiating position, which sources say has hardened amid persistent security concerns.





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			<title>Major routes to Islamabad closed ahead of PTI protest</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631205/major-routes-to-islamabad-closed-ahead-of-pti-protest</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631205/major-routes-to-islamabad-closed-ahead-of-pti-protest#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 14:33:09 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Imran Adnan]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[NHMP travel advisory shows multiple road closures and restrictions]]>
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				<![CDATA[Major highways and motorways leading to Islamabad have been closed or restricted at several points ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march planned for September 27, disrupting interprovincial and intercity movement of passenger and goods transport and affecting key links between the federal capital and surrounding regions.

The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) travel advisory on Thursday listed multiple road closures and restrictions ahead of the opposition party&#39;s planned long march.

The advisory, however, cited the reason for the closures and restrictions as a &ldquo;law-and-order situation&rdquo;.



A police officer diverts traffic on the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway blocked with trucks placed by authorities in Islamabad on September 24, 2026 ahead of opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest demanding the release of Imran Khan. Photo: AFP

It further stated that the M-1 motorway had been closed in both directions between Swabi and the Islamabad Toll Plaza, with southbound traffic diverted from the Swabi Interchange. The E-35 Hazara Motorway was also closed in both directions between Jharikas and Burhan due to the &ldquo;law-and-order situation&rdquo;.

Similarly, the advisory noted that the entire Hakla-to-Yarik stretch of the M-14 was affected by law-and-order restrictions in both directions.

The advisory also cited restrictions on the M-2 North, including the closure of the Islamabad-bound route for heavy transport vehicles between Kot Momin and Islamabad.

The restrictions also affected the N-5 Grand Trunk Road. At Attock Khurd, traffic restrictions had been imposed in both directions, with diversions listed through HPT, Deser Star and Suzuki Motors.

Read: Rangers deployed in Islamabad, Punjab districts to maintain law and order

The latest NHMP advisory, updated at different times on Thursday, also listed a number of separate roadwork-related lane closures on the M-2, M-3 and M-4.

Several major routes elsewhere in Punjab and the country, including sections of the M-5 and the southern N-5, remained open, with road and weather conditions reported as clear.

The closures come as PTI prepares for its September 27 march towards Islamabad, which the party says aims to seek the release of its founder, Imran Khan.

The Express Tribune has learnt that Islamabad authorities have also imposed restrictions on public gatherings, while major entry routes to the city have been sealed at several points.

The measures have caused disruption for commuters in the Hazara, Taxila, Haripur, Attock and Rawalpindi-Islamabad regions. Reports from Haripur said routes towards Taxila, Hassan Abdal, Attock, Rawalpindi and Islamabad had been blocked with containers, while traffic queues were reported around Jharikas and Hassan Abdal.

A separate report said the main road from Haripur through Hattar towards Taxila had also been blocked with containers. Traffic approaching Taxila and Rawalpindi from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Gate No. 1 side was also reportedly blocked.

So far, the authorities have cited security and law-and-order concerns for the restrictions, while PTI has characterised the measures as an attempt to prevent its supporters from reaching Islamabad.

With the protest still two days away, the continuing closure of major transport corridors has already disrupted movement between Islamabad and several parts of K-P and northern Punjab. Commuters have been advised to check official travel advisories before undertaking journeys.



A general view shows the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway blocked with trucks placed by authorities in Islamabad on September 24, 2026, ahead of opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Photo: AFP

Earlier today, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry rejected a reporter&#39;s reference to road closures in Islamabad, saying the WhatsApp status being cited was old. &ldquo;No road was closed,&rdquo; he said, adding that all 125 routes into Islamabad were open until noon.

The minister also said that whenever security measures were required, both the federal and provincial governments would follow court orders and the law &ldquo;in letter and spirit&rdquo; to protect lives and property.

&ldquo;Attackers cannot be allowed to attack here,&rdquo; he said.

The Punjab government also sought additional security deployments in areas including Rawalpindi and Attock, while officials said the measures were intended to maintain law and order ahead of the expected political activity.

PTI alleges targeting of party leaders ahead of March

The party said that the homes and offices of party leaders were being targeted as part of a wider crackdown ahead of the protest.

In Mandi Bahauddin, the party alleged that police and unidentified plain-clothes personnel raided the residence of PTI district senior vice-president Faisal Imran Gondal and damaged furniture, doors, windows, electric motors, Imran&nbsp;billboards and other property.

PTI also condemned what it described as a raid and vandalism at the hujra of former party leader Murad Saeed. A party statement alleged that unidentified personnel damaged property there and accused the authorities of harassing Saeed and his family.

Read More: Uproar in K-P Assembly over minister &#39;abduction&#39;

Separately, PTI leaders in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) reported a series of raids and arrests involving party lawmakers and provincial ministers. The provincial government and PTI have described the actions as an attempt to restrict the party&rsquo;s political activity ahead of the planned march.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, speaking in Lahore on Wednesday, claimed that four members of Imran&rsquo;s family and eight PTI MNAs were under arrest, while several provincial ministers remained missing. He alleged that the situation in K-P had effectively become similar to Governor&rsquo;s Rule despite no formal declaration.

Gohar called for the resolution of disputes through political dialogue.

The allegations could not be independently verified by The Express Tribune.

In today&rsquo;s press conference, when asked about the footage showing a K-P provincial minister allegedly being picked up or arrested by police, Minister Talal Chaudhry rebuked the provincial government for being unable to protect its own minister.

&ldquo;If there are dozens of incidents every day, an incident involving a minister or anyone else can happen,&rdquo; he said.]]>
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			<title>Rangers deployed in Islamabad, Punjab districts to maintain law and order</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631177/rangers-deployed-in-islamabad-punjab-districts-to-maintain-law-and-order</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631177/rangers-deployed-in-islamabad-punjab-districts-to-maintain-law-and-order#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:17:11 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631177</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Interior ministry directs all necessary action in self-defence in event of attacks by armed or violent groups]]>
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				<![CDATA[The federal government on Thursday approved the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab to assist police in maintaining law and order and responding to potential security threats, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Interior.

The approval came a day after the Punjab government&nbsp;sought Rangers assistance in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali until October 5, with the deployment approved by the provincial cabinet&rsquo;s Standing Committee on Law and Order on September 20 following a request from Punjab Police. The deployment was to be carried out under Article 245 of the Constitution and relevant provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 and Pakistan Rangers Ordinance 1959.

The ministry approved the deployment following requests from the Chief Commissioner Islamabad and the Punjab government. Rangers personnel were deployed under Sections 7(b) and 10 of the Pakistan Rangers Ordinance 1959 and Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

The notification authorised the Rangers to provide full assistance to police in maintaining law and order and responding to violent activities or security threats. It also directed Rangers and police personnel to take all appropriate and necessary action in self-defence in the event of attacks by armed or violent groups.

The ministry instructed the security forces to take all necessary measures to deal with any violent activity or threat and ensure the protection of public property and lives.

The deployed Rangers personnel would perform security duties and assist police authorities in maintaining peace and order in the areas concerned, according to the notification.

The move came amid heightened security concerns in Islamabad and parts of Punjab, with authorities seeking additional security support to deal with potential disturbances and threats.

Read: Punjab imposes Section 144 across province, seeks Rangers deployment and mobile service suspension

The Punjab government had on Wednesday imposed Section 144 across the province for 13 days, from September 23 to October 5, banning gatherings of five or more people in any public place, street, road, highway, motorway or open space.

The Punjab Home Department said the restrictions were imposed in view of a &ldquo;serious and imminent threat&rdquo; to public peace, tranquillity and the safety of life and property across the province from terrorist organisations and hostile intelligence agencies.

The department said intelligence agencies had issued multiple alerts about possible terrorist attacks involving suicide bombers and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices. It warned that rallies, gatherings, sit-ins, processions, demonstrations and other assemblies could become potential targets for such attacks.

The restrictions did not apply to marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, burial gatherings or prayers at mosques and other places of worship. Courts, government institutions and events held with formal permission were also exempt.

The Home Department said law-enforcement agencies had requested immediate security measures to address possible terrorism threats. The restrictions were imposed under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898.

The Punjab Home Department had also asked the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to downgrade or jam mobile and internet services at selected locations in Rawalpindi and Attock from September 27 for law and order purposes.

The department had requested 2G, 3G and 4G network jamming at selected locations in Rawalpindi, while also seeking a downgrade of mobile and internet services in Attock. The requested locations included parts of Rawalpindi along the motorway from Barahma Bahtar to M1, Gango, Ahata, Taxila City, Wah Saddar, Thallian and Chakri.

The department said mobile and internet services would remain downgraded at the specified locations from September 27.]]>
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			<title>CDF Munir, Maldives parliament speaker discuss bilateral cooperation and regional security</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631185/cdf-munir-maldives-parliament-speaker-discuss-bilateral-cooperation-and-regional-security</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631185/cdf-munir-maldives-parliament-speaker-discuss-bilateral-cooperation-and-regional-security#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:53:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631185</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Raheem Abdullah appreciates Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability]]>
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				<![CDATA[Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s commitment to strengthening ties with the Maldives for the &ldquo;mutual benefit of both countries&rdquo; during a meeting with Speaker of the People&rsquo;s Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdullah in Rawalpindi, the military&#39;s media wing said on Thursday.

Raheem Abdulla was on a five-day visit to Pakistan at the invitation of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. His programme included meetings with political leaders, interactions with the Pakistan-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship Group and visits to historical and cultural landmarks in Islamabad.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the CDF Munir underscored the importance Pakistan attaches to its &ldquo;brotherly relations&rdquo; with the Maldives. The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional security and bilateral cooperation, during the meeting at General Headquarters (GHQ).

Raheem Abdullah &ldquo;appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability&rdquo; and said he wanted to deepen bilateral engagement and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest, according to the ISPR.

Read: Pakistan, Maldives agree to boost parliamentary cooperation

On September 17, Abdullah met Sadiq, with the two sides agreeing to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and people-to-people contacts.

Sadiq had stressed the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting peace and development in the region, while saying sustainable peace could not be achieved without resolving the issues of Palestine and Kashmir. He had also warned that the Israel-India nexus posed a &ldquo;serious threat&rdquo; to regional and global peace.

Raheem Abdullah had&nbsp;praised Pakistan&rsquo;s &ldquo;clear and consistent&rdquo; stance on Palestine and Kashmir and reaffirmed the Maldives&rsquo; commitment to expanding legislative and institutional cooperation with Islamabad.]]>
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			<title>'PSP rules cannot be overridden': Talal warns new K-P police law may weaken command structure</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631161/psp-rules-cannot-be-overridden-talal-warns-new-k-p-police-law-may-weaken-command-structure</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631161/psp-rules-cannot-be-overridden-talal-warns-new-k-p-police-law-may-weaken-command-structure#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 08:41:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Naeem Asghar]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631161</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Says new law could increase political influence over appointments, postings and promotions]]>
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				<![CDATA[Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Thursday warned that a new Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) police law could politicise the provincial force by weakening its professional command structure, saying provincial legislation could not override federal Police Service of Pakistan (PSP) rules.

The K-P&nbsp;Cabinet on Wednesday approved the K-P Police Act 2026. The new legislation empowered the provincial government to return the services of federal police officers, including the Inspector General, in cases of unsatisfactory performance. It also established a clear separation between police policy and operational matters, created new oversight boards, and overhauled the investigation and dispute-resolution systems.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Chaudhry said the K-P cabinet had approved the legislation, which would now go before the provincial assembly, and questioned whether a province could use its legislative powers to alter a system governed by the Constitution and federal law.

&ldquo;If Balochistan wants to make its own army, can it make an army through legislation?&rdquo; he asked.

Chaudhry said PSP rules had been challenged before high courts and the Supreme Court (SC) over different periods and that the resulting legal principles had become settled. &ldquo;Police Service of Pakistan rules cannot be overridden by provincial legislation,&rdquo; he said.

He said the proposed K-P legislation went beyond the existing powers of chief ministers over police postings, which were broadly similar across all four provinces. &ldquo;The chief minister already has consultation powers, but those powers do not affect the command structure, morale, recruitment, training and promotions,&rdquo; he said.

The proposed law, he said, would instead affect appointments and postings from grade 17 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSP) upwards, including positions for which Regional Police Officers (RPO), Deputy Inspector Generals (DIG) and additional IGs currently exercised authority. &ldquo;This is not only about the IG. You have taken back the entire command structure,&rdquo; Chaudhry said.

Read: K-P Cabinet approves landmark Police Act 2026

He said that powers over appointments, transfers and postings were being placed under political control, allowing decisions ranging from grade 17 DSP postings to appointments at IG level to become subject to the chief minister and ruling party. That, he said, could change the way officers viewed their professional responsibilities.

&ldquo;An officer will start looking towards the politician instead of his senior,&rdquo; Chaudhry said, questioning what would happen to discipline and morale if police personnel began considering the preferences of political leaders before those of their professional chain of command.

He said the issue was particularly serious in K-P, where police personnel had been fighting terrorism and suffering casualties for years.

He recalled that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan had previously spoken about keeping institutions free from political influence, including by citing examples from other countries. A commission was subsequently formed, and a police law was enacted in 2017, he said. &ldquo;Nine years later, you have brought a law that is 180 degrees against that,&rdquo; Chaudhry said.

He questioned why a disciplined force responsible for maintaining public order and fighting terrorism should be subjected to political control in the same way as ordinary civilian departments. &ldquo;Police is not agriculture or fisheries,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry also questioned the proposed recruitment of DSPs, asking how the province would develop senior officers if the existing PSP structure was weakened. &ldquo;If there are no PSP officers, where will your grade 19, 20, 21 and 22 officers come from?&rdquo; he asked.

&ldquo;You can recruit your own people as DSPs and then promote them to grade 18 and 19,&rdquo; he said.

Read More: K-P police bill sparks autonomy concerns

Chaudhry said the debate over command could not be separated from the resources available to the K-P police, which he said had been neglected despite the province&#39;s prolonged battle against terrorism.

The provincial government already controlled the police budget and finances, he said, but salaries remained lower than those of police in other provinces and compensation packages for martyrs were also comparatively lower.

He listed shortages of bulletproof jackets and vehicles, Safe City systems, forensic laboratories and accommodation. &ldquo;K-P has been fighting terrorism for 15 to 20 years. Should its CTD be operating from rented buildings?&rdquo; he asked.

Chaudhry said Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) facilities in Punjab and Islamabad had concrete walls and fortified compounds, while rented CTD buildings in K-P had previously been attacked by terrorists, resulting in deaths, injuries and destruction of buildings.

He said such premises were unsuitable for housing counterterrorism personnel and terrorist detainees.

Chaudhry also questioned how funds allocated to K-P for counterterrorism under the National Finance Commission award had been spent. He said the province received one per cent under the NFC arrangement for terrorism-related expenditure, which he put at about Rs800 billion.

&ldquo;Show me even Rs200 billion,&rdquo; he said.

He cited the Safe City Peshawar project as another example, saying the project was only now approaching completion after efforts by the provincial police leadership. He questioned what would happen to the project&#39;s funding and administrative structure under the proposed legislation. &ldquo;Without Safe City, forensic labs, equipment, drones and modern equipment, how will you control terrorism and public order today?&rdquo; he asked.

Chaudhry said the disparity between police resources and terrorist capabilities was particularly concerning. He asked reporters to look at security arrangements at Punjab&#39;s border checkposts, where he said police personnel had bulletproof jackets and vehicles and were protected by concrete structures.

Also Read: Police security taken back from K-P MPAs

He said cameras provided round-the-clock surveillance and were difficult to disable with gunfire or explosives.

Chaudhry claimed that no Punjab police personnel had been killed at those checkposts since the facilities were installed, while terrorists had been killed when they attacked them.&ldquo;The K-P police are very brave, but bravery alone cannot fight a terrorist equipped with advanced weapons,&rdquo; he said.

He said terrorists had access to night-vision equipment, drones and other modern technology, including weapons and equipment left in Afghanistan by NATO, the United States and other countries following the war.

Chaudhry further stated that dollars were being sent to Afghanistan through proxies and routes in the east to finance terrorism.

He said a single terrorist could be carrying equipment worth $10,000 to $15,000 at international prices, including a weapon, bulletproof jacket, uniform, ammunition and other equipment.

He contrasted that with a K-P police officer on the frontline who, he said, could lack even a bulletproof jacket, proper training, Safe City coverage or forensic support. &ldquo;These facilities are the responsibility of the K-P government,&rdquo; he said, adding that the chief minister and provincial cabinet controlled the relevant budget and authority.

Chaudhry said police could not be treated as an ordinary provincial department because its command structure was directly linked to discipline and the ability to maintain public order.

He also objected to the proposed police committees under the new law, questioning why such committees were being introduced when the existing police law had been in place since 2017. He said the proposed committees would have six members, all from the provincial assembly, with no opposition member.

He questioned whether political representatives should control police matters at tehsil and district levels and said other groups could provide independent guidance. &ldquo;There are judges, civil society and other people who can give good advice and guidance,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;One province cannot have completely different salaries, training, command structures, investment and appointment and posting procedures for its police,&rdquo; he said.

Read: Kundi rules out governor&#39;s rule in K-P

He said provinces could retain differences in less fundamental areas, such as uniforms and the organisation of traffic or specialised units. &ldquo;But basic things should remain the same.&rdquo;

He warned that if political leaders gained greater influence over transfers and promotions, officers could &quot;start looking at whether a politician is pro-Taliban or anti-Taliban, whether he likes the TLP or not, and whether action should be taken.&quot;

Chaudhry said such a situation would be particularly damaging while K-P remained on the frontline of terrorism.

The minister also criticised the K-P government&#39;s support for police personnel killed in the line of duty. He said the provincial government had the authority to allocate money for martyrs&#39; families and had a moral responsibility to stand with them, but alleged that provincial ministers had not attended the funerals of personnel killed in the Kohat attack.

&ldquo;You do not even attend the funerals of the martyrs,&rdquo; he said.

He linked the lack of financial and political support with an attempt to further weaken police morale through changes to recruitment, transfers, postings and promotions. &ldquo;You cannot demoralise the force in Pakistan,&rdquo; he said.

He also warned that the proposed changes could set a precedent for other provincial police forces.

Chaudhry said disputes over the powers of police chiefs and transfer and posting authorities had previously reached the Sindh High Court and Peshawar High Court, while the SC had heard several related cases.

&ldquo;The law will certainly be challenged in the courts,&rdquo; he said.

He said the federal government would examine the legislation against the Constitution and existing law and could consider further legislation through parliament if required. &ldquo;Even after the 18th Amendment, there are areas where federal law remains in force,&rdquo; he said, again citing PSP rules.

Asked about footage showing a K-P provincial minister allegedly being picked up or arrested by police, Chaudhry questioned the provincial government&#39;s claim that it was unable to protect its own minister. &ldquo;If the provincial government is so helpless, why is it hiding behind this?&rdquo; he asked.

Read More: Uproar in K-P Assembly over minister &#39;abduction&#39;

He said the same provincial police had registered the FIR and taken legal action in the case, while law and order remained a provincial responsibility. &ldquo;If there are dozens of incidents every day, an incident involving a minister or anyone else can happen,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry also questioned the provincial government&#39;s performance after 14 years in power. If the government remained helpless after 14 years, he said, &ldquo;something else should be done&rdquo;.

Chaudhry rejected a reporter&#39;s reference to road closures in Islamabad, saying the WhatsApp status being cited was old. &ldquo;No road was closed,&rdquo; he said, adding that all 125 routes into Islamabad were open until noon.

He said whenever security measures were required, both the federal and provincial governments would follow court orders and the law &ldquo;in letter and spirit&rdquo; to protect lives and property. &ldquo;Attackers cannot be allowed to attack here,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry said governments were responsible for taking security measures for their own officials and institutions, noting that he was a political worker serving his second term as minister of state for interior. &ldquo;Go and compare an Islamabad police station with a K-P police station,&rdquo; he said.

He referred to electric vehicles used by Islamabad police and to bulletproof vehicles provided to K-P by the federal government, while questioning the provincial government&#39;s approach to those resources.

Chaudhry also criticised K-P&#39;s performance in health and education and asked why the province&#39;s shortcomings were being attributed to the establishment or other institutions.

During the exchange, reporters raised several unresolved cases in Islamabad, including a young man whose vehicle allegedly struck someone before leaving the scene, with CCTV footage allegedly not being checked even after a month.

They also raised the case of a woman&#39;s body found within the jurisdiction of Golra police station, with her face allegedly mutilated and organs removed, while the killer or killers remained unidentified.

A reporter further cited comments by PPP political allies that when PML-N was powerful it &ldquo;grabbed the throat&rdquo; and when it was weak it &ldquo;grabbed the feet&rdquo;, and alleged that Chaudhry&#39;s body language resembled the former.

Chaudhry did not answer those individual cases during the exchange and instead returned to the proposed K-P police law, saying its implications were particularly important because of the provincial force&#39;s role in fighting terrorism and its potential effect on the federal structure.

Asked whether Imran would be transferred from Adiala Jail to Islamabad Model Jail once the new facility opened next month, Chaudhry said, &ldquo;Islamabad Model Jail is being built for criminals and prisoners, not for one person.&quot;

He said Islamabad had previously not had a jail and that the new facility would be Pakistan&#39;s first model jail, with extensive facilities for prisoners. Chaudhry said the facilities would be so extensive that many people might prefer living there to living at home, and invited reporters to visit the site.

On the possibility of Governor&#39;s Rule in K-P, Chaudhry said possessing constitutional powers did not mean the government should automatically use them. &ldquo;The government is political,&rdquo; he said.

He said the federal government avoided using many of its powers unless there was no alternative and urged the K-P government to consider its own position. &ldquo;Our desire is that the government that received the vote should govern,&rdquo; he said.

Chaudhry cited the political situation in 2013, when PTI did not have a simple majority, saying Nawaz Sharif had given the party an opportunity to form the government and PML-N had supported the process.

He said the federal government would continue to deal with the dispute through the Constitution, law and available state mechanisms rather than taking action outside that framework.

He also returned to the wider national security situation, referring to developments in Balochistan and Kashmir and saying Pakistan needed internal unity as international challenges unfolded.

&ldquo;Political disagreement is normal,&rdquo; he said, adding that parties could have their own ideologies but should not weaken matters of national interest for political gain.

Chaudhry cited the National Action Plan as an example of political consensus, saying the first plan had been formulated under a PML-N government on 20 points with the participation of all provincial governments.

He said a second National Action Plan had been agreed upon when Imran was prime minister, again with the agreement of political parties. &ldquo;Agreed national documents should not be damaged for political advantage,&rdquo; he said.]]>
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			<title>Kundi rules out governor's rule in K-P</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631087/kundi-rules-out-governors-rule-in-k-p</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631087/kundi-rules-out-governors-rule-in-k-p#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 23:22:56 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rameez Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631087</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says PTI govt cannot violate IHC order]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has dismissed speculation about the imposition of Governor&#39;s Rule in the province as baseless, saying there was currently neither any need for it nor such a move was under consideration.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Kundi said the situation in the province was under control and the PTI-led provincial government could not make the provincial administration act in violation of an Islamabad High Court (IHC) order.

He said the IHC&#39;s order was clear and no government or police official would dare disregard it. Kundi also claimed that the PTI had no clear direction regarding its planned long march, alleging that some of its own parliamentarians were calling the police and requesting to be arrested.

Kundi&#39;s remarks followed speculation over the possibility of Governor&#39;s Rule after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said on Monday that the federal government was consulting the Law Ministry on legal options for K-P, including Governor&#39;s Rule.

The speculation was subsequently rejected by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, who said on Tuesday that the federal government had no intention of imposing Governor&#39;s Rule in K-P. He said the province needed &quot;people&#39;s rule&quot; and good governance instead.

However, other PML-N leaders associated with the government described Governor&#39;s Rule as one of the available options during television debates. He also dismissed a columnist&#39;s claim made during a television debate that names were being considered for appointing a new governor from outside the PPP to maintain a balance of power. Kundi, who belongs to the PPP, described the claim as a figment of the claimant&#39;s imagination.

The governor said the K-P government&#39;s confusion was also evident in its move to alter police control through the K-P Police Act 2026 bill approved by the provincial cabinet. He alleged the proposed legislation aimed to give the chief minister greater operational control over the police and allow its use for political purposes.

Kundi said that if circumstances ever warranted the imposition of Governor&#39;s Rule, any such step would be taken through the constitutional and legal process, with the relevant authorities acting through the proper channel.

He, however, stopped short of ruling out any future change, saying circumstances could change &quot;in an instant&quot; and that predicting tomorrow was impossible, particularly in the prevailing situation.

The issue has gained prominence amid heightened tensions between the federal government and the PTI-led K-P administration ahead of the party&#39;s planned September 27 march on Islamabad.

The IHC directed provincial and federal authorities to ensure that public funds, government officials, vehicles and other state resources are not used to facilitate the march. K-P authorities subsequently issued similar directions to government departments.]]>
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			<title>LHC declines immediate suspension of detention orders against Noreen, Uzma</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631172/lhc-declines-immediate-suspension-of-detention-orders-against-noreen-uzma</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631172/lhc-declines-immediate-suspension-of-detention-orders-against-noreen-uzma#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 10:27:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631172</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Seeks replies from the relevant authorities on their petitions challenging the detentions]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday declined an immediate request to suspend the detention notifications issued against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan&rsquo;s sisters, Dr Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi, and sought replies from the relevant authorities on their petitions challenging the detentions.

Uzma and Noreen had been taken into custody a few days earlier for 30 days under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance 1960 (MPO), a day after their sister Aleema Khan was detained. The detentions of Imran&rsquo;s sisters and other PTI leaders came ahead of the party&rsquo;s planned countrywide protest on September 27 and march to Islamabad.

Justice Abher Gul Khan heard the petitions today, while lawyers Rana Mudassar Umar and Barrister Taimur appeared on behalf of the petitioners.

During the proceedings, Umar asked the court to suspend the detention notifications, saying he wanted to place certain facts before the bench.

&ldquo;Both women are housewives, and Dr Uzma has already been found innocent in the case registered against her,&rdquo; the counsel submitted. He also told the court that a copy of the trial court&rsquo;s decision had been attached to the petition.

Read: Imran&#39;s sisters challenge 30-day detention in LHC, seek immediate release

The court declined to suspend the notifications at this stage and instead directed the relevant authorities to submit their reports and replies. &ldquo;Let us seek reports from the relevant parties,&rdquo; Justice Khan observed.

The petitions sought the annulment of detention notifications issued by the deputy commissioner. The court subsequently issued notices to the respondents, seeking their replies on the pleas. The respondents included the Lahore deputy commissioner, capital city police officer, secretary of the Home Department and superintendent of Kot Lakhpat jail.

Noreen&rsquo;s daughter, Sakina, and others had also approached the high court through Rana Mudassar Umar, challenging the detention orders.

A few days earlier, Justice Gul, while hearing a petition challenging the detention of Aleema and her driver, had sought arguments on the maintainability of the plea.

Imran&#39;s sisters detained under MPO 

Uzma and Noreen were detained for 30 days under Section 3 of the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance 1960, a day after their sister Aleema Khan was detained under the same law. The detentions came ahead of the PTI&rsquo;s planned September 27 countrywide protest and march towards Islamabad.

The Lahore deputy commissioner&rsquo;s orders cited police reports alleging that the two women&rsquo;s activities were &ldquo;prejudicial to the public safety and maintenance of public order&rdquo; and linked them to the May 9, 2023 protests and road blockades. The orders also said multiple cases had been registered against them.

On September 21, Aleema&rsquo;s son Shahraiz Khan approached the LHC challenging the detention orders against his mother and her two sisters. The petition argued that the orders were unlawful and failed to establish any specific conduct warranting preventive detention.

A day later, the LHC sought further arguments on the maintainability of a separate petition challenging Aleema and her driver Muhammad Ameer&rsquo;s detention. Their counsel argued that the detention proceedings appeared to have been initiated after they had already been taken into custody, pointing to the timing of the District Intelligence Committee meeting and the issuance of the detention notification.]]>
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			<title>PML-N's Najeeb Naqi takes oath as 23rd president of AJK</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631167/pml-ns-najeeb-naqi-elected-as-25th-president-of-ajk</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631167/pml-ns-najeeb-naqi-elected-as-25th-president-of-ajk#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 09:34:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[MA Mir]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631167</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[AJK Supreme Court Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram Khan administers the oath]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Dr Muhammad Najeeb Naqi of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) on Thursday took the oath as the 23rd President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) at a ceremony held at the President House in Muzaffarabad.

The AJK Supreme Court Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram Khan administered the oath to the newly elected president.

AJK Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani, PML-N AJK President Shah Ghulam Qadir, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam, Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Legislative Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Tariq Farooq, AJK High Court Chief Justice Justice Sardar Liaqat Hussain, former prime ministers Raja Farooq Haider Khan and Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, former federal minister Khurram Dastgir Khan, members of the AJK Cabinet and Legislative Assembly, Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan, Inspector General of Police, senior government officials and other prominent people attended the ceremony.

At the outset, Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan read out the notification declaring Dr Najeeb Naqi as the newly elected president. The oath was then administered by the AJK Supreme Court chief justice.

Following the oath-taking ceremony, a police contingent presented President Najeeb Naqi with a guard of honour.

Read:&nbsp;AJK&#39;s electoral road ends with new PM

Dr Muhammad Najeeb Naqi Khan of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) was elected AJK president after securing 32 votes, while Chaudhry Latif Akbar of Pakistan People&rsquo;s Party (PPP) received only 13 votes.

Reportedly, one PPP lawmaker from Mirpur, Qasim Majeed, did not attend the Assembly session.

President Khan&rsquo;s political career, which began in Sudhnoti in Poonch division more than three decades ago, has taken him from the Legislative Assembly to the Kashmir Council and several key ministerial portfolios. The 62-year-old leader comes from a prominent political family. His grandfather, Colonel Khan Muhammad Khan, is remembered in AJK&rsquo;s political history as the &ldquo;Baba-e-Poonch&rdquo;, while his father, Colonel Muhammad Naqi Khan, was also a politician.

Following his father&rsquo;s death, Naqi entered politics in the 1990s and was first elected to the AJK Legislative Assembly in the 1991 elections. During that term, he served as parliamentary secretary for health and planning and development.

He was re-elected to the assembly in 1996 on the Muslim Conference (MC) ticket and subsequently served as a member of the AJK Council from 2001 to 2006.

In the 2006 elections, he again won an assembly seat on the MC ticket and served in the government, holding portfolios including health, population welfare, colleges and information technology.

Read More: PML-N nominee Najeeb Naqi Khan submits papers for AJK president

Naqi joined the PML-N and was elected to the AJK Legislative Assembly on the party ticket in the 2011 elections. He retained his seat in 2016 and served as a minister for several key departments, including health, finance and planning and development, until 2021. The PML-N&rsquo;s central leadership nominated him this month as its candidate for the AJK presidency.

His political career has thus spanned multiple roles as an elected legislator, parliamentary secretary, Kashmir Council member and cabinet minister, culminating in his election as president for the AJK&rsquo;s highest constitutional office.



مسلم لیگ ن کے ڈاکٹر محمد نجیب نقی خان آزادجموں و کشمیر کے نئے صدر منتخب۔ ڈاکٹر محمد نجیب نقی خان نے 32 ووٹ حاصل کئے، انکے مد مقابل پیپلز پارٹی کے چوہدری لطیف اکبر 13 ووٹ لے سکے۔ ایوان میں مسلم لیگ ن 32 نشستوں کے ساتھ اکثریتی جماعت جبکہ پیپلز پارٹی کی نشستوں کی تعداد 14 ہے۔ وزیر&hellip; pic.twitter.com/s2xbJbcwYE
&mdash; PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) September 24, 2026


Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Naqi, expressing his best wishes to him on assuming the constitutional office.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office (PMO), PM Shehbaz said Naqi&rsquo;s election was a reflection of the confidence placed in him by the people of AJK.

The prime minister expressed hope that Naqi would discharge his responsibilities effectively and play a constructive role in the development, prosperity and welfare of the people of Kashmir. He also reiterated the federal government&rsquo;s commitment to providing full support for the development and prosperity of the people of AJK.]]>
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			<title>Eight terrorists killed in North Waziristan intelligence-based operation: security sources</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631152/eight-terrorists-killed-in-north-waziristan-intelligence-based-operation-security-sources</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631152/eight-terrorists-killed-in-north-waziristan-intelligence-based-operation-security-sources#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 08:05:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631152</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment was also recovered from the possession of slain terrorists]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Security forces killed eight Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists during an Intelligence-Based Operation (IBO) in North Waziristan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), Pakistan Television (PTV) reported on Thursday, citing security sources.

The operation was conducted after intelligence indicated the presence of terrorists in the area, the sources said, adding that their hideouts were destroyed during the action.

A large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment was also recovered from the possession of the slain terrorists, according to the sources.

The sources said the terrorists had attempted to use a mosque as a shield to evade the security forces. Security forces, however, took the sanctity of the mosque into consideration and targeted the terrorists while avoiding damage to the place of worship, the sources said.

The operation was part of continued efforts by security forces against Fitna al-Khawarij in K-P. Security forces remained committed to eliminating Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists from the province, the sources said.

Fitna Al-Khawarij is the state-designated term for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).



#BREAKING

Security forces continue operations against Fitna Al-Khawarij terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing eight terrorists in an intelligence-based operation in North Waziristan, according to security sources. The sources said terrorist hideouts were completely&hellip; pic.twitter.com/HTFGQrPqCJ
&mdash; Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) September 24, 2026



Earlier, Pakistan also carried out &quot;precision&quot; aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan after drones launched from Afghan territory entered Pakistani airspace. A day earlier, Pakistan&rsquo;s air defence systems had shot down eight drones after they entered the country&rsquo;s airspace from Afghanistan. Security sources said four of the drones were brought down in areas adjoining the Torkham border, while another four were shot down in mountainous areas near the border with Kohat.

Read: 23 abductees rescued, 5 terrorists killed as security forces thwart attempt to set up check post near Kalat

Terrorism is a growing problem for Pakistan, with the number of attacks rising every year since 2022, according to Armed Conflict Location &amp; Event Data (ACLED), a global monitoring organisation. Data from ACLED shows attacks in Pakistan rose nearly fourfold to 2,425 in 2025 from 658 in 2022.

On Sept 18, at least 21 people, including 15 police personnel and six civilians, were killed when an explosion struck a mosque at Kohat&rsquo;s Police Lines during Friday prayers, followed by an attack involving several armed terrorists, according to an initial incident report issued by the DHQ Hospital Kohat medical superintendent and district health officer. More than 100 people were injured in the attack.

Last week, security forces killed 10 terrorists belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna Al-Khawarij in multiple engagements in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa between Sept 15 and 17, while six soldiers embraced martyrdom,

Last month, security forces killed 11 terrorists in separate intelligence-based operations in K-P and Balochistan, targeting suspected members of Fitna Al-Khawarij and Fitna Al-Hindustan.]]>
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			<title>FM Dar, Araghchi stress importance of dialogue, diplomacy for regional stability on UNGA sidelines</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631134/fm-dar-araghchi-stress-importance-of-dialogue-diplomacy-for-regional-stability-on-unga-sidelines</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631134/fm-dar-araghchi-stress-importance-of-dialogue-diplomacy-for-regional-stability-on-unga-sidelines#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 05:37:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631134</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The two sides also agreed to remain in close contact]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (FM) Ishaq Dar and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi discussed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and sustained engagement to promote regional peace and stability during a meeting in New York, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Thursday.

The ministry said that the two ministers met on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where they also discussed bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international developments.

&ldquo;FM underscored the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and sustained engagement in promoting regional peace and stability,&rdquo; the FO said. The two sides also agreed to &ldquo;remain in close contact&rdquo;, it added.



Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 met with Foreign Minister of Iran, H.E. Seyed Abbas Araghchi @Araghchi, on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The two counterparts discussed bilateral relations&hellip; pic.twitter.com/6IuMoY1PJJ
&mdash; Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 24, 2026


Dar holds meeting with South Korean counterpart

Later, FM Dar met South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, and the two reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation, particularly in trade, investment and economic ties, according to a post by the FO.

Dar emphasised the importance of greater business-to-business engagement to unlock new opportunities.



Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Cho Hyun on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and&hellip; pic.twitter.com/0JEY8HgOe2
&mdash; Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 24, 2026



The Korean foreign minister also appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s constructive role in promoting dialogue and diplomacy to address regional issues.

&ldquo;The two Foreign Ministers also underscored the importance of the multilateral system and reaffirmed their commitment to working together at the UN and other multilateral fora on issues of mutual interest,&rdquo; the Foreign Office said.

Pakistan&#39;s role in US-Iran diplomacy&nbsp;

FM Dar and Araghchi last met in Bishkek on September 1, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, where they discussed bilateral relations and regional developments and reaffirmed the importance of continued engagement. Dar stressed that &ldquo;dialogue and diplomacy remain essential&rdquo; to regional peace and stability and said implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran was the &ldquo;only way forward&rdquo;.

Earlier this month, FM Dar and Araghchi also spoke by telephone, agreeing to maintain close contact and meet in New York. During the 19 September call, Dar stressed the need for uninterrupted energy supplies and the safe passage of ships, while saying that &ldquo;dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable means&rdquo; of ensuring peace and stability in the region.

Pakistan had also been involved in efforts to facilitate dialogue between Tehran and Washington. In June, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi travelled to Tehran and met Araghchi as Pakistan sought to support the diplomatic track following the US-Iran memorandum.

Pakistan had hosted the Islamabad Talks in April, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirming Islamabad&rsquo;s role as a mediator between the US and Iran. The Iranian delegation was led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and included Araghchi, while Dar, Naqvi and CDF Asim Munir represented Pakistan.

Following the signing of the Islamabad MoU in June, Pakistan continued to facilitate US-Iran engagement. Four-party talks involving the US and Iran, with Pakistan and Qatar as mediators, were subsequently held in Switzerland to discuss implementation of the agreement.

More recently, Iran said it had exchanged messages with the US through Qatari mediation on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, with Tehran conveying conditions for reviving diplomacy. The development came after Trump said US officials had held talks with Iranian representatives in New York.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan consulate in Jeddah introduces online appointments for NADRA, passport services</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631151/pakistan-consulate-in-jeddah-introduces-online-appointments-for-nadra-passport-services</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631151/pakistan-consulate-in-jeddah-introduces-online-appointments-for-nadra-passport-services#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 07:54:35 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Initiative aimed at reducing long waits and queues at the consulate while improving the overall delivery of services]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah on Thursday introduced an online appointment system for NADRA and Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) services to streamline consular services for Pakistani citizens living in western Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan&rsquo;s Consul General in Jeddah, Syed Mustafa Rabbani, introduced the initiative as part of efforts to make consular services more convenient and citizen-friendly.

Under the new system, Pakistani citizens could book appointments online for NADRA and passport services and visit the consulate on their scheduled date and time to complete the application process.

From October 1, 2026, NADRA and MRP services would be provided exclusively by appointment. Rabbani told media representatives that appointment bookings had opened on September 20.



A Step-By-Step Procedure for booking an appointment for NADRA and MRP.@ForeignOfficePk pic.twitter.com/w72o7EKZzv
&mdash; Pakistan Consulate General Jeddah (@PakinJeddah) September 22, 2026


Applicants could select a suitable time slot and book an appointment from their homes, while an SMS notification and tracking ID would be issued after the booking was confirmed.

The tracking ID would allow applicants to monitor the status of their appointments online.&nbsp;The initiative was aimed at reducing long waits and queues at the consulate while improving the overall delivery of services.

Rabbani said the system would bring greater organisation and transparency to consular services while saving citizens&rsquo; time. Designated time slots were also expected to reduce overcrowding and waiting times at the consulate.

Read: PM Shehbaz directs expansion of digital consular services for overseas Pakistanis

According to information released by the consulate, appointments could be booked through the online portal appointment.parepjeddah.org. Citizens were also advised to contact consulate officials for guidance or information about the system.

The designated contact numbers were 0126689149, 0558577893, 0558606308 and 0501914472. Information was also available via email at parepjeddah@mofa.gov.pk.

The consulate urged members of the Pakistani community to familiarise themselves with the new system before October 1 and book appointments in advance for NADRA and MRP-related services in accordance with the prescribed procedures.

It advised citizens to make appointments ahead of time to avoid difficulties and unnecessary waiting at the consulate.

During the briefing, Rabbani outlined various aspects of the new system and reiterated his commitment to making consular services more convenient, organised and efficient for the Pakistani community.]]>
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			<title>Balochistan imposes Section 144 across province for 30 days</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631147/balochistan-imposes-section-144-across-province-for-30-days</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631147/balochistan-imposes-section-144-across-province-for-30-days#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 07:18:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631147</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Home Department cites reports of activities and gatherings threatening public peace, law and security]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Balochistan government on Thursday imposed Section 144 across the province for 30 days, banning public gatherings, rallies and demonstrations, as well as the display of weapons.

The provincial Home Department said it had received reports indicating the likelihood of activities and gatherings that could adversely affect public peace, tranquillity, law and order, and the safety and security of the general public.

Under the order, assembly or gathering of five or more people at any public place has been prohibited. The ban covers sit-ins, processions, rallies, demonstrations and similar gatherings.

The government has also prohibited the display, carrying, possession or use of weapons of any kind in public places, except where specifically authorised under the law.

The order further bans covering or concealing the face in public places, particularly through mufflers, masks or any other means that obstruct or prevent identification of a person.

All law-enforcement agencies and district administrations have been directed to ensure strict implementation and enforcement of the order in accordance with the law.

The government warned that anyone found violating the restrictions would be proceeded against under the relevant provisions of the law.

The order was issued by Balochistan Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat under sub-section (6) of Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898.

&nbsp;



🚨🚨

ٹکرز برائے الیکٹرانک میڈیا

بلوچستان حکومت کی جانب سے عوام کے جان و مال کے تحفظ اور امن و امان کے پیش نظر دفعہ 144 نافذ کر دی گئی ہے، معاون برائے داخلہ بابر یوسفزئی۔

صوبہ بھر میں 30 روز کے لیے عوامی مقامات پر ہر قسم کے اسلحے کی نمائش، نمائشِ اسلحہ، اجتماع اور جلوس پر&hellip; pic.twitter.com/gyYxGIJ7wa
&mdash; Babar Yousafzai (@BabarYousafzai_) September 23, 2026


Adviser to the Home Department Babar Yousafzai said Yousafzai said that Section 144 would remain in force across Balochistan for 30 days with immediate effect from September 23, 2026.

He said that all law-enforcement agencies and district administrations had been directed to ensure strict implementation of Section 144.

&quot;The measures are aimed at maintaining public peace and tranquillity, law and order, and protecting the lives and property of citizens,&quot; the adviser said.

The restrictions come amid heightened security activity in Balochistan. On Wednesday, security forces killed 19 terrorists in separate intelligence-based operations in Quetta, Kech and other areas of the province.

A subedar was also killed in an exchange of fire. In a separate engagement in Mastung, security forces killed nine terrorists after they allegedly attempted to attack a checkpost, while two others were killed in an operation in Turbat.

The latest order is the third province-wide imposition of Section 144 in Balochistan this year. In May, the provincial government imposed similar restrictions for 30 days, citing potential terrorist threats and banning weapons displays, pillion riding, gatherings of five or more people and face coverings. A separate province-wide order was imposed during Muharram in June as part of security arrangements.]]>
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			<title>Scam centres</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631043/scam-centres</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631043/scam-centres#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 19:25:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631043</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Call centres in Karachi alone had facilitated international fraud worth approximately $60 million]]>
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				<![CDATA[The arrest of 212 individuals in Islamabad this week on suspicion of running international fraud operations is the latest example of why Pakistan is now widely associated with phone- and internet-based financial scams in wealthy countries. Apart from the arrests, raids by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on three call centres also yielded hundreds of computers and mobile phones, which helped underscore how the largely unregulated call centre industry has evolved into a sprawling infrastructure for committing financial fraud abroad.

The Sindh home minister recently revealed that call centres in Karachi alone had facilitated international fraud worth approximately $60 million, with proceeds laundered through Bitcoin and US dollars. Investigators describe networks impersonating Google representatives, running &quot;love-dating&quot; schemes and using private material to extort victims abroad. And while most Pakistani businesses are struggling to attract foreign investment, fraud centres have brought in both investment and expertise.

Foreign experts have noted that Pakistan stands out as a fraud call centre hub because its internet and telephone infrastructure is far behind other notorious countries, but laws regulating the sector are weak and criminal penalties are nominal. Regulatory gaps are most obvious. The PTA has explicitly stated it does not regulate call centres or software houses, while the PSEB has registered over 7,400 call centres but doesn&#39;t actually monitor them for illegal conduct. Meanwhile, NCCIA is one of the few agencies with the mandate and capability to act against call centres, but its own staffers are on the take - several months back, NCCIA officers were busted running an extortion racket that collected nearly Rs300 million from illegal call centres in exchange for monthly &quot;protection fees&quot;.

The government&#39;s recent licensing requirement for call centres is a good step, and only 25 years too late. Still, if we ensure that monitoring and prosecution of call centres will now be up to the mark, we may shed yet another ignominious international title.]]>
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			<title>El Niño's health threat</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631044/el-ninos-health-threat</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631044/el-ninos-health-threat#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 19:25:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631044</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[El Niño is a reminder that the world remains woefully unprepared for the public health consequences of extreme weather]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The impending El Ni&ntilde;o is a reminder that the world remains woefully unprepared for the public health consequences of extreme weather. The World Health Organisation has warned that the climate phenomenon poses a significant threat to global health, with its effects likely to be felt well into 2027. As global temperatures continue to rise, extreme weather events are becoming an increasingly serious challenge to public health systems that are already struggling to meet routine healthcare needs.

For millions living in poverty, the distinction between a climate emergency and a health emergency is becoming increasingly meaningless. There is a disturbing inequity at the heart of this crisis. Countries with limited healthcare resources and inadequate sanitation are often the least capable of protecting their populations from climate-related diseases. WHO has cautioned that the effects of El Ni&ntilde;o will be particularly severe where climate shocks intersect with food insecurity, displacement and weak health systems. Yet international climate responses continue to place insufficient emphasis on the protection of public health. The international community must recognise that climate adaptation is as much about protecting human health as it is about safeguarding infrastructure and economic activity.

Pakistan is particularly exposed to this predicament. The catastrophic floods of 2022 demonstrated how a natural disaster can develop into a prolonged public health emergency when healthcare facilities and access to safe drinking water are compromised. The country&#39;s vulnerability is further compounded by the limited reach of preventive healthcare and the persistent neglect of basic sanitation. The government must recognise that the country&#39;s vulnerability is not simply a consequence of its geography. It is also a reflection of the persistent failure to invest adequately in preventive healthcare and climate-resilient infrastructure. International assistance will remain important, but it cannot compensate for the absence of sustained domestic planning.]]>
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			<title>A thought for de-escalation</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630846/a-thought-for-de-escalation</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630846/a-thought-for-de-escalation#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 26 19:32:28 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
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			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2630846</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Secretary of State Marco Rubio hints at a possible meeting between Trump and his Iranian counterpart]]>
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				<![CDATA[There is a breath of fresh air as de-escalation moves onto the agenda of the warring sides. The contention from Tehran that it is willing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, provided Washington eases military pressure and lifts the blockade of Iranian ports, is a welcome development. For many, it is d&eacute;j&agrave; vu. Both the US and Iran had reached a similar understanding following their agreement in Islamabad, and global supply chains was heaving a sigh of relief as oil prices had slumped back to $80 a barrel.

This development has luckily coincided with Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinting at a possible meeting between President Trump and his Iranian counterpart, Masoud Pezeshkian, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. That, however, is a utopian thought as far as the Islamic Republic is concerned. Iran&#39;s military brass has recently upped the ante by saying it is ready for a long war, and this time around, all American interests in the region would be its targets.

Iran&#39;s demand - that the US should agree on a timeline for how the process will move forward - can be worked out. This demand, incidentally, has come a day after Pakistan&#39;s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with high-ranking Iranian officials in his earnest efforts to iron out a deal to end the stalemate. This makes a perfect case for reverting to diplomacy and picking up where the Islamabad MoU left off. A cooling-off phase is desired during which a ceasefire comes into force and Tehran convinces the Houthis to step back. The warfare deep inside Saudi Arabia, which is under attack from the Yemeni militia, is proving lethal to oil supplies on both sides of the Red Sea.

There is an opportunity amid the disaster for the UN, too, to revive its image. It must play a role in forging a consensus between Iran and the US. This will not only help further prospects for peace in the Middle East and beyond, but also strengthen the weakened muscles of international law. The UNGA needs to return to its Uniting for Peace resolution and broker a thaw without delay.]]>
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			<title>Hindutva and the limits of Indian diplomacy</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631047/hindutva-and-the-limits-of-indian-diplomacy</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631047/hindutva-and-the-limits-of-indian-diplomacy#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 19:25:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Durdana Najam]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631047</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[India likes to present itself as a voice of peace, dialogue and the Global South, but do actions match its rhetoric]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[India likes to present itself as a voice of peace, dialogue and the Global South. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - the world as one family - and promotes Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas. India has also repeatedly spoken of an era of dialogue and diplomacy rather than war.

But South Asia has a right to ask a simple question: do India&#39;s actions towards its neighbours match its rhetoric?

The recent unrest in Nepal provides a disturbing starting point. Violence following a Hindu religious procession in Sunsari exposed growing communal tensions in a country with a long tradition of religious coexistence. Hindu nationalist organisations with links to India have expanded their presence in Nepal, while Hindu identity is increasingly being used for political mobilisation. During Nepal&#39;s constitutional transition, Hindu nationalist groups in India openly lobbied for the restoration of Nepal&#39;s Hindu-state status.

This is not the first time India has intervened deeply in Nepal&#39;s political affairs. During Nepal&#39;s 2015 constitutional crisis, the Indian government itself acknowledged maintaining close contact with Nepal&#39;s political leadership and monitoring the situation closely. India denied imposing a blockade, while Nepal and others blamed the disruption of supplies on the border crisis. The larger point is that India has long regarded developments in Nepal as a matter of vital strategic interest. The question is whether that interest has now acquired an ideological dimension.

This brings us to Hindutva. The problem is not Hinduism, but the political idea that Hindu identity should occupy a dominant position in the definition of the Indian nation. When that idea becomes the basis of politics, Muslims and other religious minorities inevitably face the question of whether they are being treated as equal citizens or as communities expected to live within a Hindu-majoritarian national framework.

This concern is not merely theoretical. Human Rights Watch has documented increasing vilification of Muslims, discriminatory policies and unlawful demolitions of Muslim homes and properties under the BJP-led government. Its 2026 report also records attacks against Christians and other minorities.

The continuing demolition of Muslim religious and historic sites makes the question even more uncomfortable. Indian authorities have generally cited encroachment, unauthorised construction or development requirements in individual cases. But when mosques, shrines and other Muslim sites are repeatedly removed or challenged, it inevitably raises a larger question: is India merely dealing with illegal structures, or is a new political narrative also attempting to reduce the visible presence of its Muslim history? Recent demolitions of mosques in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have intensified that debate.

India&#39;s Muslim history cannot simply be removed from the national story. It is part of India&#39;s history, just as its Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain and other traditions are. If Hindutva seeks to redefine India primarily through Hindu civilisation, its influence beyond India deserves scrutiny as well.

The contradiction becomes sharper over water.

India placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance in April 2025. The treaty governs rivers vital to Pakistan&#39;s agriculture and economy and had survived wars and decades of hostility. On August 31, 2026, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled unanimously that the treaty remained fully in force and that the grounds cited by India did not justify its suspension. India rejected the ruling.

Water is not an ordinary instrument of geopolitical pressure. For Pakistan, the Indus system is a matter of agriculture, food security and human survival. How does the language of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam sit with using control over a vital resource as leverage against a neighbour?

The same question arises from regional economic cooperation.

SAARC has effectively been paralysed since the 2016 summit was cancelled after India withdrew from the Islamabad meeting following the Uri attack. Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan and Sri Lanka subsequently also stayed away. India participates actively in the G20, BRICS, SCO, Quad and BIMSTEC, so it is clearly not opposed to multilateralism. The question is whether it prefers regional arrangements in which its enormous weight gives it greater influence, rather than an institution where India and Pakistan sit as equal members.

Afghanistan presents another contradiction.

India has chosen to engage the Taliban. In January 2025, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, with both sides discussing expanding relations, trade and development cooperation.

There is nothing inherently wrong with diplomatic engagement. But if India has access to Kabul, why has it not used that access to help reduce tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan?

China has actively attempted to mediate between Kabul and Islamabad, while Turkey has also worked with both sides to promote dialogue. India has the diplomatic channels to do the same if it chooses to. This is particularly relevant because a UNSC-mandated monitoring report found that the Taliban continued supporting the TTP and that this contributed to increased frequency and lethality of terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The report also identified growing operational links among the TTP, Al Qaeda, ISIL-K and the BLA.

India&#39;s engagement with Kabul may serve legitimate strategic interests. But strategic engagement and peace-building are not necessarily the same thing.

India is unquestionably the largest power in the region. But there is a fundamental difference between regional leadership and regional dominance.

Leadership means allowing neighbours to prosper, respecting their constitutional choices, keeping vital resources outside political confrontation, supporting regional institutions and using influence to reduce conflict.

That is why India&#39;s slogans deserve to be tested against its conduct. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam sounds noble. Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas sounds inclusive. But the region will ultimately judge these principles not by speeches in Delhi, but by what happens to its water, trade, security, connectivity, minorities and sovereignty.]]>
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			<title>Debating transformation in the Global Order</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631046/debating-transformation-in-the-global-order</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631046/debating-transformation-in-the-global-order#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 19:25:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Inam Ul Haque]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631046</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Economy, India, Afghanistan are challenges; Iran war, connectivity, balancing ties with US, China are opportunities]]>
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				<![CDATA[Last week, we discussed the salients of annual International Programme for Development and Stability (IPDS-26) conducted recently by Institute for Strategic Studies, Research and Analysis (ISSRA) at the National Defence University (NDU) Islamabad. We discussed the contours of &#39;Emerging Global Order (EGO)&#39;, the role and rise of China and the US/European dimension of the EGO. We continue.

Pakistan&#39;s former permanent representative at the UN, Munir Akram, identified three challenges and three opportunities for Islamabad under the EGO. Economy, Indian hostility and Afghanistan were challenges; whereas war in the ME, connectivity and balancing of ties with the US and China were exploitable opportunities. He emphasised &#39;developing&#39; relations with the US and &#39;preserving&#39; ties with China, and opined that the war in the ME will create regional security architectures with Pakistan as a security provider, as indicated through Makkah Agreement.

The second plenary of the Conference dealt with technology redefining power. Brig Gen Wharton of the US remained focused on the human dimension of technological development, emphasising technology&#39;s subservience to humanity. This, he posited, remains under stress due to &#39;potential&#39; loss of human control over AI. He was appreciative of China&#39;s &#39;industrial capacity at scale&#39; in the service of humanity at low cost, and as a critical element of national power.

On AI, South Korean speaker, Dr Park, emphasised expert control, while discussing AI development and AI risks. Unlike many countries ambivalent about AI regulation, Pakistan, she said, should have its own AI regulation. Russian panelist, Ms Oksana, also called for country-specific AI regulation and pressed for investing in people, emphasising humanity to be at the core of AI in its genesis, development and proliferation.

Panelists equated data security with national security, pointing out challenges of data centres &ndash; including hacking, uninterrupted electricity supply and water needed for cooling &ndash; warning about the perils of putting too much data online. On AI regulation, the dominant view gravitated towards the mechanics of doing so, defending &#39;human cognitive security&#39; without controlling thought, and the dos and don&#39;ts for governments.

The third plenary dealt with EGO-driven changing character of warfare and impacts on strategic stability. An eminent American scholar Dr Robert Pape, while enumerating the lessons of the US war with Iran, declared that the US was in an &#39;Escalation Trap&#39;. The US dilemma was acute: conceding Iran&#39;s control of Hormuz emboldens states like China and encourages countries like India to undertake military unilateralism (against Pakistan). Recent Indian Navy incursion in Pakistan&#39;s EEZ is a case in point. While contesting Hormuz control risks escalation and is militarily untenable indefinitely for the US, as of now.

In his opinion, the Iran War is in many ways the &#39;inverse&#39; of the 1991 War with Iraq. Since the Iraq War, there has been global diffusion of technology and &#39;democratisation&#39; (inexpensive availability) of precision weapons, challenging the global powers. Prof Pape identified continued smuggling of Iranian oil through Pakistan as an ongoing challenge, and refugee influx and instability as the likely consequences of US ground invasion of Iran through Chahbahar beachhead, etc.

Brig Gen Kimmitt of the US Army theorised whether warfare was undergoing a &#39;Revolution in Military Affairs&#39; (RMA) or an &#39;Evolution&#39; (EMA). In his opinion (correctly), the conduct of warfare had changed with new tools at hand, while its nature (principles) remains unchanged. He, however, considered the &#39;principle of Mass&#39; irrelevant without &#39;concentration&#39;. He was reminded that &#39;technological mass&#39; was the likely contemporary manifestation of &#39;Mass&#39; as a cardinal principle of war; and that AI was the new RMA.

Gen Kimmitt suggested guardrails for AI regulation, postulating that &#39;unmanned platforms&#39; were the new horizon in warfare, rendering pilots redundant, as machines could handle greater G Forces compared to humans. Swarming the battlefield with inexpensive weapons was the new normal, saturating adversary&#39;s response and raising his interception costs. Effective counter-drone capability was still away. And &#39;Internet of Things (IOT) was being replaced by &#39;AI of Things&#39; (AIOT). Russian speaker, Dr Alexey, spoke about the &#39;Drone Revolution&#39; contextual to the war in Ukraine.

Pakistan&#39;s Admiral Faisal discussed Iran&#39;s &#39;sea control&#39; vis-&agrave;-vis America&#39;s &#39;sea denial&#39;. Iran was employing &#39;compellence and deterrence&#39; and the US was reacting to it. Iran, by default, decides shipping safety, insurance, freight costs, etc. He considered Hormuz control, Iran&#39;s Centre of Gravity and Tehran&#39;s political, diplomatic, economic and military leverage. He considered Hormuz critical, whether under Iranian control or under the world, and theorised the Iran war introducing &#39;strategies of choke points&#39;, making security more expansive and global trade more expensive.

The fourth plenary debated global competition and conflict prevention. Brazilian view was &#39;pro-hedging&#39;, as hedging provided more flexibility and strategic autonomy. Hedging by BRICS was beneficial, as BRICS participants shared the table simultaneously with myriad players, without dispensing with the UN/other forums. Platforms like BRICS provide low risk space for Middle Powers (MPs) to operate at universal, multilateral and bilateral levels. South African panelist described reform at the UN, and supported effective mediation, arbitration and facilitation under the UN&#39;s good offices. She identified &#39;middle power diplomacy&#39; as multilateral tool for conflict prevention.

Pakistan&#39;s Dr Moeed Yusaf considered EGO another historic continuum. But this time around, the hegemon (US under Trump) had announced voluntary retirement without being displaced through historic decline, like in the past; leaving a fragmented Global Order, and vacuum/uncertainty. This allows MPs to formulate issue-based partnership as opposed to ideological camping; Brazil being a case in point. He suggested that MPs, sidelining NAM, will challenge Western hegemony. He defined MP as a country that cannot be ignored by either the US or China. He concluded that the future is likely to have a &#39;rule-based order&#39;, albeit with different set of rules, bringing together MPs under a resurgent UN.

As per Dr Moeed, Pakistan has a major opportunity under the EGO and it must become part of regional mechanisms. It should optimise its crucial geography like its location, mineral wealth, connectivity and transit potential. Islamabad needs to pursue internal cohesion, cheap energy and cooperative geoeconomics, shunning camp politics. He underscored good relations with both America and China and considered stable Pakistan critical for regional and global peace and stability. He suggested that Islamabad cannot and should not be a &#39;net security provider&#39; regionally.]]>
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			<title>How would Jewish supremacists act?</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631041/how-would-jewish-supremacists-act</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631041/how-would-jewish-supremacists-act#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 26 19:25:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran.Jan]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[A popular idea from Islamic tradition is how a society would determine what kind of leadership it would have]]>
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				<![CDATA[One of the most popular ideas from Islamic tradition is how a society would determine what kind of leadership it would have. A deeply immoral society cannot expect to have a leader that is moral. And that is an idea that Israeli society seems to have deeply internalised. Benjamin Netanyahu has been in this quagmire of corruption cases against him. Had he not become the prime minister of Israel in the last election they had, this criminal would most likely have been in jail. Norman Finkelstein, recently talking to Tucker Carlson, brilliantly argues that the Israeli society does not care about his corruption cases because he is carrying out a deeply supremacist project of flattening Gaza for Israelis to one day live in. Netanyahu is the reflection of Israeli society.

And this has been a well-known fact that an alarmingly overwhelming majority of the Israelis support the genocide and Netanyahu&#39;s war of aggression against defenceless Palestinians in Gaza. One might argue that regardless of how much hatred the Israelis might have for the Palestinians, the Israelis must be against the wholesale slaughter of innocent children of Gaza.

That argument sounds very plausible and intelligent. However, it misses one central point; supremacy. Yes, any normal human being would be opposed to the death of children even of their enemy. Pakistanis would be deeply upset if an innocent child in India died from a Pakistani bullet. Likewise, Indians would be deeply upset if their bullet caused the death of a Pakistani child. When it comes to Pakistan and India, the fight really is over both sides thinking their side is right and the other wrong. When it comes to Palestine and Israel, it is not about being right, the Israelis believe they are better. They are the chosen ones. Once you view this genocide and other slaughter of the Palestinians at the hands of the Israelis from this lens, it all starts making sense, if you will.

Some of the characteristics of Jewish supremacists would be for them to advocate that the land was promised to them 2000 years ago, that they are the chosen ones, that the Palestinians are animals, that the Palestinian children must be killed, that they had the right of return, that they had the right to take over Palestinians&#39; homes.

Here is another proof of the Israelis being Jewish supremacists: supremacists would know their lunatic ideology would not hold water and the world wouldn&#39;t side with them so they&#39;d display an image that is completely opposite. They&#39;d whine all the time generally. They&#39;d whine about being victims of hatred, anti-semitism (Palestinians are semites too). They&#39;d whine about being targeted by Hamas, nevermind that it was created by Israel in the first place. They&#39;d install agents in the strongest country in the world where their job would be to purchase and control the politicians there, using their money. It is one of the most mind boggling things to think about. Those agents would conflate the critique of Israel with hatred of Jews. But when people would criticise the Jews for their silence over Israel&#39;s aggression, they&#39;d then not allow that same conflation and whine over Jew hatred. Again.

A supremacist is someone who doesn&#39;t see wrong in his or her actions but sees all the wrong when others perform the same action. The Christian Zionists who are some of the hardcore supporters of the state of Israel cite the Holy Bible at every opportunity they get in order to justify their blind support for the illegitimate state. Here are three facts these Christian Zionists should perhaps know about: One, the same Holy Bible also says that a hypocrite is a person who refuses to apply to himself the same rules he applies to others. There is no legitimate child killing regardless of who does it. Two, most of the Israeli Zionists do not believe in God. Yet, they also say that God promised them this land 2000 years ago. Three, the word Israelites in the Holy Bible thousands of years ago is not referring to the current blue eyed Ashkenazi Jews from Poland, Russia and Europe currently living in occupied Palestine.]]>
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			<title>Israeli clearance of Gaza rubble could destroy 'evidence'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628033/israeli-clearance-of-gaza-rubble-could-destroy-evidence</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628033/israeli-clearance-of-gaza-rubble-could-destroy-evidence#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 26 00:35:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2628033</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Albanese says Palestinians should take charge of clearance]]>
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				<![CDATA[A UN expert said on Monday that Israeli clearance of rubble in Gaza could destroy valuable evidence of &quot;atrocity crimes&quot; and prevent the recovery of human remains.

Israel&#39;s assault on Gaza - started after the deadly raid into Israel by Hamas in October 2023 - has generated around 61 million tons of wreckage and debris that could take seven years to clear, according to the United Nations.

Francesca Albanese, the UN expert on the Palestinian territories, said evidence should be gathered and human remains identified before full clearance started.

She issued a statement headlined: &quot;UN expert warns Israeli rubble-clearing could erase traces of atrocity crimes&quot; and said Palestinians should be behind any plans to remove waste.

&quot;In devastated Gaza, rubble is not just construction waste. It is part of a crime scene, a graveyard, and the material record of what happened during a brutal and senseless bombing campaign that lasted two years,&quot; she said.

She said that multiple sources had confirmed Israeli companies were involved in the clearance, without naming those sources. Her office did not immediately respond to questions on where that information had come from.

Israel&#39;s Foreign Ministry, its Prime Minister&#39;s Office and military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In the past, all have fiercely disagreed with Albanese, who has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of Israel&#39;s military actions in Gaza.

In February, Germany, France and Italy all condemned what they said were her overly negative statements about Israel, though she denied making the remarks they cited.

In July last year, the U.S. imposed sanctions on Albanese over what it said were her efforts to prompt the International Criminal Court to take action against U.S. and Israeli officials, companies, and executives.

UN experts are commissioned by the Geneva-based Human Rights Council to monitor and document specific human rights crises but are independent of the organisation itself.

The 2023 Hamas-led attacks killed 1,200 people in Israel while another 251 were taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies.

More than 73,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel&#39;s military campaign, according to Gaza health authorities. Israel says it has gone to great lengths to avoid civilian casualties and that Hamas uses Gaza&#39;s civilians as human shields in densely populated areas - a claim Hamas denies.

Palestinian authorities estimate more than 8,000 people remain buried in the wreckage. A Palestinian recovery team that combed through the wreckage in Gaza City last month said it found the remains of 112 people from the same clan.]]>
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			<title>Bangladesh ex-PM loses right to appeal</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628034/bangladesh-ex-pm-loses-right-to-appeal</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628034/bangladesh-ex-pm-loses-right-to-appeal#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 26 00:35:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadulo Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Bangladesh&#39;s former premier Sheikh Hasina can no longer appeal her death sentence after the 30-day deadline for filing an appeal expired, the chief prosecutor said on Monday.

&quot;Those sentenced to death by the court, including Sheikh Hasina, who have not appealed within 30 days of the verdict, will no longer have the opportunity to do so,&quot; Md Aminul Islam told reporters.

Last November, Hasina was sentenced to death by the Dhaka-based International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity and for her role in a brutal crackdown during the 2024 uprising that ousted her government.

At least 1,400 people were killed and thousands were injured in the uprising by Hasina&#39;s security forces and supporters of her Awami League party, according to the UN.

&quot;Now, what is left is the execution of the verdict,&quot; said the prosecutor.

However, he said, the &quot;government has the absolute inherent power to suspend or cancel any punishment&quot;.

She is in self-imposed exile, living in India after fleeing the country.]]>
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			<title>We have to keep Netanyahu 'a little bit sane', says Trump</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2614354/we-have-to-keep-netanyahu-a-little-bit-sane-says-trump</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2614354/we-have-to-keep-netanyahu-a-little-bit-sane-says-trump#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 26 02:21:50 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[.]]>
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				<![CDATA[US President Donald Trump delivered a blunt critique of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a press interview, stating their relationship is &quot;good, but we have to keep him a little bit sane&quot;

The remark came when Trump was asked by Axious, an American media outlet, about his ties with the Israeli premier amid ongoing efforts to end fighting in Lebanon.

Trump asserted he can control Israeli military actions in Lebanon because officials there &quot;do as I say.&quot;

He highlighted American military superiority, saying that the US provides &quot;the guns&quot; and &quot;B-2 bombers,&quot; and claimed that without his intervention, Israel would have been &quot;eviscerated,&quot; echoing his remarks earlier this week asserting: &quot;Without the United States, there would be no Israel.&quot;

Earlier this week, the US president said he advised Netanyahu to use a &quot;softer touch&quot; in Leb-anon, saying Israel does not have to &quot;knock down a building every time somebody walks into it that&#39;s from Hezbollah,&quot; referring to frequent Israeli bombing of Lebanon, including many residential areas.]]>
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			<title>Five dead in South Korea aerospace plant blast</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2611013/five-dead-in-south-korea-aerospace-plant-blast</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2611013/five-dead-in-south-korea-aerospace-plant-blast#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 26 22:32:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Five people have died and two others were injured on Monday after an explosion and fire on a South Korean production line for rocket propellant at a factory operated by Hanwha Aerospace in the city of Daejeon, officials said.

The two survivors, including one who was badly burned, had escaped from the facility themselves, a fire official told a briefing.

&quot;Authorities have yet to identify the victims because their bodies were severely damaged,&quot; a health official told the same briefing.

A fire official said that an explosion had triggered the blaze, though the cause of the blast was still being investigated. The blast appeared to have occurred while water was being used to clean explosive material from tools making rocket propellant, a Hanwha official told a company briefing.

&quot;We bow our heads in apology to the victims and their bereaved families,&quot; said Chief Executive Officer Son Jae-il, pledging to cooperate fully with authorities to determine the cause of the accident.

The five dead included two temporary workers in their 20s and all were employed by Hanwha, the company said.]]>
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			<title>Israeli strikes kill seven in Gaza</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610261/israeli-strikes-kill-seven-in-gaza</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610261/israeli-strikes-kill-seven-in-gaza#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 26 18:45:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Israeli strikes killed at least seven Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday including five in a refugee camp and two in a car, health officials said.

Medics and residents said an Israeli drone fired a missile at people who came out of their homes when an Israeli-backed Palestinian militia tried to storm an area east of Maghazi camp.

As well as at least five fatalities, several people were injured.

The Israeli military, which has been fighting Hamas in the Palestinian territory since October 2023, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on that incident.

Incursions by Israeli-backed armed gangs, whom Hamas brands &quot;Israeli collaborators&quot;, have escalated in past weeks.

Leaders of those groups, who operate in areas under Israeli control, say they aim to topple Hamas rule.

Later on Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike struck a vehicle in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, killing two people and wounding several others, medics said.

The Israeli military told Reuters it was a &quot;targeted strike&quot; and provided no further details.]]>
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			<title>US, Armenia sign partnership agreement</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610262/us-armenia-sign-partnership-agreement</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610262/us-armenia-sign-partnership-agreement#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 26 18:45:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[.]]>
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				<![CDATA[US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan signed a strategic partnership agreement in Yerevan on Tuesday, less than two weeks before parliamentary elections in the South Caucasus country.

Rubio&#39;s visit comes as Russia has threatened to exert economic pressure on Yerevan for its growing ties to the West by raising prices Armenia pays for Russian gas if the country turns away from integration with Moscow

On June 7, Armenia votes in an election pitting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan&#39;s Civil Contract party against an array of opposition parties, many of which are pro-Russian.

Rubio and Mirzoyan

also signed a framework agreement on critical minerals and another on cooperation on a proposed 43-km (27-mile) transit corridor across southern Armenia

that would give Azerbaijan a direct route to its

exclave of Nakhchivan

and into Turkey, Baku&#39;s closest ally.

Dubbed the &quot;Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)&quot;, the corridor is a key part of a peace agreement reached last August between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which have been at war on-and-off since the late 1980s. No formal peace deal has been signed.

The route would better connect Asia to Europe - bypassing Russia and Iran - at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in critical minerals deals with resource-rich Central Asian countries to the east of the South Caucasus region. The mining of iron, copper and zinc and other minerals is also a major sector of Armenia&#39;s economy.

&quot;We are going to be able to work together to make sure that both of our

countries, both of our economies, are going to have reliable access

to these critical minerals,&quot; Rubio said at the

signing ceremony on Tuesday.]]>
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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>
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				<![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>Trump-Xi summit in Washington begins with great fanfare but low expectations</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631186/xi-receives-rare-us-airport-welcome-from-trump-first-lady</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631186/xi-receives-rare-us-airport-welcome-from-trump-first-lady#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:56:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk/ Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631186</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Second meeting this year between Trump and Xi will centre on discussions on AI, trade, Taiwan and the Iran war]]>
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				<![CDATA[US President Donald Trump welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping to the White House on Thursday for a lavish state summit expected to be heavy on symbolism but light on substance, with both leaders keen ​to showcase stable ties despite a host of thorny issues such as AI, trade, Taiwan and the war with Iran.

In remarks on Thursday from the grand foyer of the White House, Trump touted his &quot;truly &zwnj;great friendship&quot; with Xi and said the two powers had made strides on trade since his trip to China in May.

&quot;During this visit, we will also discuss pressing issues concerning security, technology, and &#39;super intelligence,&#39;&quot; Trump said, using his alternative name for artificial intelligence. &quot;The decisions we make in these areas today can promote peace and prosperity for decades and decades to come.&quot;

Speaking after Trump, Xi said the competition between the US and China should be a &quot;healthy one.&quot; US companies were welcome in China, he said, adding that he hopes &quot;Chinese companies are treated fairly here in the United States.&quot;

Xi ​also said both militaries should maintain regular dialogue to improve crisis prevention.

Read: Xi starts high-stakes US visit with call to be &lsquo;partners, not rivals&rsquo;

&quot;The Thucydides trap can be overcome,&quot; he said, referring to the academic theory that sees a risk of rivalry between a rising and an established power ​spiralling into open conflict.

The summit, Xi&#39;s first visit to Washington in more than a decade, is the second meeting this year between the leaders of the world&#39;s two biggest economies.



&quot;President Xi and I have forged a friendship, a truly great friendship actually, built on the mutual respect and the vital interests of our people.&quot;

President Trump welcomes President Xi Jinping, Madame Peng Liyuan, and the Chinese delegation to the White House to begin their&hellip; pic.twitter.com/48bcpMGRGC
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 24, 2026


Pomp and ⁠circumstance

For Trump, who relishes ceremony and prizes his ties with powerful leaders, the visit is as much a matter of national prestige as an opportunity for high-stakes diplomacy. The US president aimed to reciprocate the grand welcome he received in China in ​May.

But Trump and Xi&#39;s remarks were not carried live by any US television networks, which have collectively declined to provide footage in protest of the White House&#39;s ban of CNN, MS Now and Politico.



President Trump and the President of China Deliver Remarks https://t.co/9xOtSXOgNa
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 24, 2026


Trump greeted Xi on arrival on Wednesday evening with a red carpet ​on the tarmac, the first time a US president has welcomed a foreign leader at Joint Base Andrews since President Barack Obama met Pope Francis in 2015, according to C-SPAN, which tracks presidential events.

Following their remarks on Thursday, the two leaders observed a military ceremony including a flyover at the Rose Garden, with Chinese flags waving from the Oval Office roof alongside US flags, before a scheduled bilateral meeting.



Xi Jinping:

We should coexist in peace. As I have said many times, China and the United States, as two major countries, stand to gain from cooperation and will both lose in confrontation.

We do not need to avoid mentioning competition, but our competition should be a healthy&hellip; pic.twitter.com/oXxtu8z1GK
&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) September 24, 2026


Trump&#39;s embrace of Xi could complicate his campaign message at home ahead of November&#39;s midterm elections, when Republicans&#39; narrow congressional majorities are at stake.

The president, for months, has labelled Democrats &quot;communists&quot; in an effort to paint them as too extreme, but he welcomed Xi, the head of the Chinese Communist Party, on Thursday as a dear personal friend.



.@POTUS and @FLOTUS join President Xi and Madame Peng for a Military Review in the Rose Garden pic.twitter.com/RwBkD116ph
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) September 24, 2026


Breakthroughs unlikely

Despite the fanfare, analysts say &quot;major&quot; breakthroughs are unlikely, with tangible outcomes ​potentially limited to an extension of a trade truce expiring in November and an agreement to examine threats posed by artificial intelligence.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News on Wednesday after talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng that they had agreed to extend until &zwnj;January 10 an ⁠agreement that paused a trade war that saw mutual tariffs top 100%.

Trump wrote in a Truth Social post on Thursday morning that the two leaders would discuss &quot;super intelligence&quot; but again indicated he has little interest in imposing new regulations, despite concerns from industry leaders that AI could eventually pose a threat to humans.

&quot;Super Intelligence (SI) will be a big topic of discussion, but I want to leave it exactly where it is,&quot; Trump wrote. &quot;That is China&#39;s position also.&quot;

During his comments on Thursday, Xi said both countries have &quot;the capability and responsibility to develop and manage AI for good, and ensure that the development of AI is always under human control.&quot;

Analysts say intense competition between the two powers in AI is likely to limit the scope for anything beyond symbolic agreements.

Keeping ​ties stable

People familiar with the plans say the talks could ​also yield deals to lower some tariffs, combat drug trafficking ⁠and expand military-to-military dialogue, while Trump is expected to seek the release of Americans and others detained in China.

Xi appears to be in a stronger position, having overseen a surge in China&#39;s trade and firmly in control of supplies of rare earth minerals that give him powerful leverage.

Both leaders see advantages in keeping relations stable, with Trump mired in the unpopular Iran war ​and Xi grappling with domestic economic challenges. But beneath the surface are challenges that could reignite tensions, including disputes over Taiwan, export controls and AI. Taiwan, a democratically governed island claimed by ​China, is the most contentious issue.

US ⁠allies in Asia are concerned Trump may be tempted to soften Washington&#39;s support for Taipei to lock in economic wins with China.



.@POTUS shows off Marine One and the new White House helipad to President Xi pic.twitter.com/mUTvisgqfg
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) September 24, 2026


Xi is expected to press Trump to halt Taiwan arms sales and could do this during a planned visit by the two to the US National Archives on Friday, sources who were briefed on the issue told Reuters. In return, China is offering help to put pressure on Iran, the sources added.

After the May summit, Trump said he was holding in abeyance an arms package to Taiwan worth some $14 billion ⁠and called it ​a &quot;very good negotiating chip.&quot;

The leaders will likely discuss the Iran war, but there has been little sign Beijing is willing to exert pressure on its ​ally to yield to US demands.

The guest list for Thursday&#39;s state dinner includes CEOs like Apple&#39;s Tim Cook, Amazon&#39;s Jeff Bezos, Alphabet&#39;s Sundar Pichai, OpenAI&#39;s Sam Altman, Tesla&#39;s Elon Musk and Nvidia&#39;s Jensen Huang, but despite such an array, people familiar with US plans say Trump is likely to maintain firm export ​controls on US tech Xi wants loosened.

A rare personal welcome

Earlier in the day, Trump gave President Xi a rare personal welcome at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where Xi kicked off a three-day state visit aimed at easing tensions between the world&rsquo;s two largest economies.

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greeted Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, beside their aircraft after the Chinese president arrived at the US military base outside Washington.



American children presenting bouquets to Xi and his wife on arrival to the US. Photo: Xinhua

The welcome marked the first time in 11 years that a US president had greeted a foreign leader at the military facility. According to C-SPAN, the previous US president to welcome a foreign leader there was Barack Obama, who received Pope Francis at the base in 2015.



President Trump welcomes Chinese President Xi to US https://t.co/IcNv3G1IEa
&mdash; Reuters (@Reuters) September 23, 2026


Trump, wearing a long coat and gloves, and Xi stood side by side on the tarmac as a military band played national anthems. A noisy flyover by two B-1 bombers clearly jolted Trump, who grimaced at the roar of jets, while his Chinese guest stood by impassively, according to French newspaper Le Monde.

The ceremony included a red carpet measuring about 100 feet, while six F-22 fighter jets and six F-16s were lined up on the tarmac in a display of military hardware. The elaborate reception differed from the usual protocol for visiting foreign leaders.

Xi&rsquo;s arrival launched a closely watched visit that is expected to feature extensive pageantry, including military ceremonies, an aircraft flyover and a state dinner at the White House on Thursday.

The Chinese president is due to hold talks with Trump at the White House, with trade, tariffs, artificial intelligence, drug trafficking and military-to-military communication expected to figure prominently on the agenda.

The airport welcome was particularly notable because Trump did not receive a similar personal greeting from Xi when the US president visited Beijing in May.



US President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan review an honour guard as they arrive ahead of a state visit at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, US, Sep 23, 2026. Photo: Reuters



President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greet President Xi Jinping of China and Madame Peng Liyuan upon their arrival in Washington, D.C., ahead of the state visit at the White House. pic.twitter.com/nm2vGonChM
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 24, 2026


Xi was accompanied by senior Chinese officials including Cai Qi, a close aide to the president, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Chinese state media reported.

Later in the day, President Trump and the First Lady hosted President Xi and Madame Peng in the Rose Garden for a Military Review.



WATCH IN FULL: @POTUS and @FLOTUS host President Xi and Madame Peng in the Rose Garden for a Military Review 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/7kfXbnNEY6
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) September 24, 2026


The First Lady also hosted Madame Peng for a cultural visit at the Smithsonian Museum of Asian Art



.@FLOTUS hosts Madame Peng for a cultural visit at the Smithsonian Museum of Asian Art pic.twitter.com/anHkakwSIk
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) September 24, 2026




.@FLOTUS and Madame Peng listen to a children&#39;s choir during the cultural visit https://t.co/xZpS69faxu pic.twitter.com/XcIjCHDmfG
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) September 24, 2026


Two sources told AFP that no Chinese chief executives were part of Xi&rsquo;s delegation, despite the planned attendance of senior US technology executives, including leaders of major artificial intelligence companies, at Thursday&rsquo;s White House dinner.

The visit comes as Washington and Beijing seek to manage a range of thorny issues while exploring areas for cooperation. Possible tariff reductions in some sectors, efforts to combat drug trafficking, expanded military-to-military dialogue and cooperation or competition over artificial intelligence are expected to feature in the discussions.

Xi is also scheduled to visit the US National Archives during his stay.]]>
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			<title>Major routes to Islamabad closed ahead of PTI protest</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631205/major-routes-to-islamabad-closed-ahead-of-pti-protest</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631205/major-routes-to-islamabad-closed-ahead-of-pti-protest#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 14:33:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Adnan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631205</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[NHMP travel advisory shows multiple road closures and restrictions]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Major highways and motorways leading to Islamabad have been closed or restricted at several points ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march planned for September 27, disrupting interprovincial and intercity movement of passenger and goods transport and affecting key links between the federal capital and surrounding regions.

The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) travel advisory on Thursday listed multiple road closures and restrictions ahead of the opposition party&#39;s planned long march.

The advisory, however, cited the reason for the closures and restrictions as a &ldquo;law-and-order situation&rdquo;.



A police officer diverts traffic on the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway blocked with trucks placed by authorities in Islamabad on September 24, 2026 ahead of opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest demanding the release of Imran Khan. Photo: AFP

It further stated that the M-1 motorway had been closed in both directions between Swabi and the Islamabad Toll Plaza, with southbound traffic diverted from the Swabi Interchange. The E-35 Hazara Motorway was also closed in both directions between Jharikas and Burhan due to the &ldquo;law-and-order situation&rdquo;.

Similarly, the advisory noted that the entire Hakla-to-Yarik stretch of the M-14 was affected by law-and-order restrictions in both directions.

The advisory also cited restrictions on the M-2 North, including the closure of the Islamabad-bound route for heavy transport vehicles between Kot Momin and Islamabad.

The restrictions also affected the N-5 Grand Trunk Road. At Attock Khurd, traffic restrictions had been imposed in both directions, with diversions listed through HPT, Deser Star and Suzuki Motors.

Read: Rangers deployed in Islamabad, Punjab districts to maintain law and order

The latest NHMP advisory, updated at different times on Thursday, also listed a number of separate roadwork-related lane closures on the M-2, M-3 and M-4.

Several major routes elsewhere in Punjab and the country, including sections of the M-5 and the southern N-5, remained open, with road and weather conditions reported as clear.

The closures come as PTI prepares for its September 27 march towards Islamabad, which the party says aims to seek the release of its founder, Imran Khan.

The Express Tribune has learnt that Islamabad authorities have also imposed restrictions on public gatherings, while major entry routes to the city have been sealed at several points.

The measures have caused disruption for commuters in the Hazara, Taxila, Haripur, Attock and Rawalpindi-Islamabad regions. Reports from Haripur said routes towards Taxila, Hassan Abdal, Attock, Rawalpindi and Islamabad had been blocked with containers, while traffic queues were reported around Jharikas and Hassan Abdal.

A separate report said the main road from Haripur through Hattar towards Taxila had also been blocked with containers. Traffic approaching Taxila and Rawalpindi from the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Gate No. 1 side was also reportedly blocked.

So far, the authorities have cited security and law-and-order concerns for the restrictions, while PTI has characterised the measures as an attempt to prevent its supporters from reaching Islamabad.

With the protest still two days away, the continuing closure of major transport corridors has already disrupted movement between Islamabad and several parts of K-P and northern Punjab. Commuters have been advised to check official travel advisories before undertaking journeys.



A general view shows the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway blocked with trucks placed by authorities in Islamabad on September 24, 2026, ahead of opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Photo: AFP

Earlier today, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry rejected a reporter&#39;s reference to road closures in Islamabad, saying the WhatsApp status being cited was old. &ldquo;No road was closed,&rdquo; he said, adding that all 125 routes into Islamabad were open until noon.

The minister also said that whenever security measures were required, both the federal and provincial governments would follow court orders and the law &ldquo;in letter and spirit&rdquo; to protect lives and property.

&ldquo;Attackers cannot be allowed to attack here,&rdquo; he said.

The Punjab government also sought additional security deployments in areas including Rawalpindi and Attock, while officials said the measures were intended to maintain law and order ahead of the expected political activity.

PTI alleges targeting of party leaders ahead of March

The party said that the homes and offices of party leaders were being targeted as part of a wider crackdown ahead of the protest.

In Mandi Bahauddin, the party alleged that police and unidentified plain-clothes personnel raided the residence of PTI district senior vice-president Faisal Imran Gondal and damaged furniture, doors, windows, electric motors, Imran&nbsp;billboards and other property.

PTI also condemned what it described as a raid and vandalism at the hujra of former party leader Murad Saeed. A party statement alleged that unidentified personnel damaged property there and accused the authorities of harassing Saeed and his family.

Read More: Uproar in K-P Assembly over minister &#39;abduction&#39;

Separately, PTI leaders in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) reported a series of raids and arrests involving party lawmakers and provincial ministers. The provincial government and PTI have described the actions as an attempt to restrict the party&rsquo;s political activity ahead of the planned march.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, speaking in Lahore on Wednesday, claimed that four members of Imran&rsquo;s family and eight PTI MNAs were under arrest, while several provincial ministers remained missing. He alleged that the situation in K-P had effectively become similar to Governor&rsquo;s Rule despite no formal declaration.

Gohar called for the resolution of disputes through political dialogue.

The allegations could not be independently verified by The Express Tribune.

In today&rsquo;s press conference, when asked about the footage showing a K-P provincial minister allegedly being picked up or arrested by police, Minister Talal Chaudhry rebuked the provincial government for being unable to protect its own minister.

&ldquo;If there are dozens of incidents every day, an incident involving a minister or anyone else can happen,&rdquo; he said.]]>
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			<title>Fact check: Major roads including M1 and GT road leading to Islamabad are still closed ahead of PTI march</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631212/fact-check-major-roads-including-m1-and-gt-road-leading-to-islamabad-are-still-closed-ahead-of-pti</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631212/fact-check-major-roads-including-m1-and-gt-road-leading-to-islamabad-are-still-closed-ahead-of-pti#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 15:10:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Fact Check By iVerify]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631212</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Claim by State Minister for Interior  Talal Chaudhry that all 125 roads to Islamabad are open to the public is false]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In a press conference on Sep 24, 2026, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry claimed that all 125 roads to Islamabad were open to the public. However, several major arteries to the federal capital are still closed.

The PTI had announced a long march towards Islamabad for September 27. The announcement came after the PTI observed a nationwide &ldquo;black day&rdquo; to mark three years of party founder Imran Khan&rsquo;s imprisonment, demanding his immediate release and that of his wife, Bushra Bibi, restoration of what it termed constitutional rule and democracy, and relief from inflation.

As PTI gears up for Sept 27 protest in the federal capital, the Islamabad administration on Sep 23 reminded citizens that Section 144 was in force for two months, barring gatherings, rallies and demonstrations, and urged them to stay away from illegal activities and cooperate with security institutions.

The government has since set up impediments, cracked down on the party&rsquo;s supporters and brought in containers as well.

How it started

On Sept 24, Chaudhry claimed in a press conference that all 125 roads to Islamabad were open to the public.

Chaudhry said: &ldquo;You must have seen some WhatsApp status update, not the original situation. No road is closed. None are closed. No road was closed until this afternoon&rdquo;

He further added, &ldquo;Not a single road was closed. Until 12pm this afternoon, no road was closed, and as for the coming routes, 125 routes lead to Islamabad &mdash; how many? 125. All 125 routes are open.&rdquo;

However, reporters in the room challenged his claims, citing conflicting ground realities and official notifications regarding motorway closures. Despite repeated questions about the disruptions and restrictions in place, Chaudhry dismissed the objections and rejected the reporters&rsquo; assertions about the blocked routes.

Methodology

A fact-check was initiated to determine the veracity of the claim due to keen public interest in the traffic situation and any roadblocks towards Islamabad due to the PTI&rsquo;s long march.

A keyword search conducted to ascertain the road and traffic conditions of the capital yielded a news report from Dawn, dated September 23, 2026, with the following headline, &ldquo;KP motorways, GT Road &lsquo;closed indefinitely&rsquo;&rdquo;.

As per the news report, the government closed the Islamabad-Peshawar Motor&shy;way (M1), the Islamabad-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway (M14) &mdash; also known as the CPEC road &mdash; and GT Road (N5) for an indefinite period from Sept 23 to stop the PTI protesters from reaching the federal capital on Sept 27. A spokesperson for the Nati&shy;onal Highways and Moto&shy;rway Police (NHMP) shared the closure would come into effect from Wednesday night.

Al Jazeera also reported the same on Sept 23 with the following headline, &ldquo;Pakistan seals roads to Islamabad before protests for Imran Khan&rsquo;s release&rdquo;.

According to the report, police in Islamabad announced on Wednesday that the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway, the Islamabad-Dera Ismail Khan Motorway, and the Grand Trunk Road would be closed at several points from the evening onwards. The public was advised to plan their travel accordingly.

Ary News also reported that the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) had announced the closure of the M-1 Peshawar Motorway, M-14 CPEC route, Hazara Motorway and sections of the GT Road and other key routes from 11pm on Wednesday until further notice.



Traffic Advisory &ndash; Road Closures from 23 Sep 2026, 2300 hrs

M-1 (Peshawar Motorway), M-14 (CPEC), Hazara Motorway (E-35), GT Road (N-5), and connecting roads (Rawalpindi&ndash;Kohat, Abbottabad&ndash;Hassanabdal) are being closed from various points. Please plan travel accordingly and use&hellip; pic.twitter.com/3j5vYQddVr
&mdash; Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) September 23, 2026


The official page of the Islamabad Police on X also shared a traffic advisory on Sept 22, 2026, which read, &ldquo;Peshawar Motorway (M-1) will remain closed to all types of traffic from 11pm tonight until further orders on September 23, 2026. Avoid travelling on Peshawar Motorway (M-1) from the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, including other districts, and postpone non-essential travel.&rdquo;

It continued, &ldquo;In contrast, M-2 (Lahore/Islamabad) Motorway will remain open for all types of traffic. Travellers are advised to plan their journey in accordance with the traffic advisory and ensure compliance with the instructions of the traffic police.&rdquo;



اہم ٹریفک ایڈوائزری

پشاور موٹروے (M-1) کل 23 ستمبر 2026 رات 11 بجے تاحکم ثانی ہر قسم کی ٹریفک کے لیے بند رہے گی۔

جڑواں شہروں اسلام آباد و راولپنڈی سمیت دیگر اضلاع سے پشاور موٹروے (M-1) پر سفر کرنے سے گریز کریں اور غیر ضروری سفر مؤخر کریں۔

اس کے برعکس ایم 2 ( لاہور/اسلام آباد)&hellip;
&mdash; Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) September 22, 2026


A further keyword search led to the official website of the National Highway and Motorway Police, which showed that several sectors in the Motorway North Zone Sector M1 (Peshawar to Islamabad Motorway) and N-5 North Zone Sector North-I (GT Road Peshawar to Islamabad) were either closed or diverted due to the law and order situation.









Express News correspondent Naeem Asghar told iVerify Pakistan that he was present in the press conference when the reporters had asked the minister about the road situation. He added that they had further pressed Chaudhry on the status of the roads later on, but the state minister avoided answering them and departed without responding.

Moreover, even after Chaudhry&rsquo;s claim that all 125 roads to Islamabad were open to the public, several media outlets such as Express News, Hum News, and Aaj News continued to report that the M1 motorway and some routes were still closed.













A news report from international wire agency AFP titled, &ldquo;Pakistan blocks roads around capital ahead of planned pro-Khan protest&rdquo;, said that authorities blocked main access routes to Islamabad with double-stacked shipping containers today.

&ldquo;Key highways, entry points, and major intersections were obstructed, completely severing transport links and bringing movement to a virtual standstill,&rdquo; it said.

The outlet reported that its journalists saw the toll plaza for the Islamabad-Peshawar highway on the capital&rsquo;s outskirts &ldquo;completely cut off&rdquo; in the afternoon, with barriers and containers blocking the major road.

It also provided pictures of the traffic diversions and road closures on the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway.



A police officer diverts traffic on the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway blocked with trucks placed by authorities in Islamabad on September 24, 2026 ahead of PTI protest demanding the release of founder Imran Khan.



A general view shows the Islamabad&ndash;Peshawar Motorway blocked with trucks placed by authorities in Islamabad on September 24, 2026, ahead of PTI protest demanding the release of founder Imran Khan.

The Express Tribune also reported the same.

Fact-check status: false

The claim by the state minister for interior that all 125 roads to Islamabad were open to the public is false.

Major roads such as M1, M14 and N5 (GT road) are still closed to traffic.

---------------

This fact check was originally published by iVerify Pakistan &mdash; a project of CEJ-IBA and UNDP.]]>
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			<title>Rangers deployed in Islamabad, Punjab districts to maintain law and order</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631177/rangers-deployed-in-islamabad-punjab-districts-to-maintain-law-and-order</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631177/rangers-deployed-in-islamabad-punjab-districts-to-maintain-law-and-order#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 11:17:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631177</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Interior ministry directs all necessary action in self-defence in event of attacks by armed or violent groups]]>
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				<![CDATA[The federal government on Thursday approved the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab to assist police in maintaining law and order and responding to potential security threats, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Interior.

The approval came a day after the Punjab government&nbsp;sought Rangers assistance in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali until October 5, with the deployment approved by the provincial cabinet&rsquo;s Standing Committee on Law and Order on September 20 following a request from Punjab Police. The deployment was to be carried out under Article 245 of the Constitution and relevant provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 and Pakistan Rangers Ordinance 1959.

The ministry approved the deployment following requests from the Chief Commissioner Islamabad and the Punjab government. Rangers personnel were deployed under Sections 7(b) and 10 of the Pakistan Rangers Ordinance 1959 and Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

The notification authorised the Rangers to provide full assistance to police in maintaining law and order and responding to violent activities or security threats. It also directed Rangers and police personnel to take all appropriate and necessary action in self-defence in the event of attacks by armed or violent groups.

The ministry instructed the security forces to take all necessary measures to deal with any violent activity or threat and ensure the protection of public property and lives.

The deployed Rangers personnel would perform security duties and assist police authorities in maintaining peace and order in the areas concerned, according to the notification.

The move came amid heightened security concerns in Islamabad and parts of Punjab, with authorities seeking additional security support to deal with potential disturbances and threats.

Read: Punjab imposes Section 144 across province, seeks Rangers deployment and mobile service suspension

The Punjab government had on Wednesday imposed Section 144 across the province for 13 days, from September 23 to October 5, banning gatherings of five or more people in any public place, street, road, highway, motorway or open space.

The Punjab Home Department said the restrictions were imposed in view of a &ldquo;serious and imminent threat&rdquo; to public peace, tranquillity and the safety of life and property across the province from terrorist organisations and hostile intelligence agencies.

The department said intelligence agencies had issued multiple alerts about possible terrorist attacks involving suicide bombers and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices. It warned that rallies, gatherings, sit-ins, processions, demonstrations and other assemblies could become potential targets for such attacks.

The restrictions did not apply to marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, burial gatherings or prayers at mosques and other places of worship. Courts, government institutions and events held with formal permission were also exempt.

The Home Department said law-enforcement agencies had requested immediate security measures to address possible terrorism threats. The restrictions were imposed under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898.

The Punjab Home Department had also asked the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to downgrade or jam mobile and internet services at selected locations in Rawalpindi and Attock from September 27 for law and order purposes.

The department had requested 2G, 3G and 4G network jamming at selected locations in Rawalpindi, while also seeking a downgrade of mobile and internet services in Attock. The requested locations included parts of Rawalpindi along the motorway from Barahma Bahtar to M1, Gango, Ahata, Taxila City, Wah Saddar, Thallian and Chakri.

The department said mobile and internet services would remain downgraded at the specified locations from September 27.]]>
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			<title>Iranian flights cancelled as new US 'D-Day' sanctions take effect</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631215/iranian-flights-cancelled-as-new-us-d-day-sanctions-take-effect</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631215/iranian-flights-cancelled-as-new-us-d-day-sanctions-take-effect#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 15:46:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631215</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[US has announced to extend reach of its financial sanctions by targeting companies doing business with Iranian firms]]>
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				<![CDATA[Iranian flights to Gulf neighbours, including travel hub Dubai, appeared to have been cancelled on Thursday after a US deadline passed for global firms to halt work with Iran&#39;s airlines, ​a major step in a campaign President Donald Trump calls &quot;economic D-Day&quot;.

With the US-Israeli war against Iran largely stalemated for months on the battlefield, Washington has announced a shift in tactics to extend the reach of its financial sanctions by targeting companies from third countries that do business with Iranian firms, a practice known as &quot;secondary sanctions&quot;.

Trump referred to the new strategy last month as &quot;economic D-Day&quot;, comparing it ​to the assault on Nazi-controlled France in World War Two by the United States and its allies.

The US Treasury had set September 23 as the deadline for companies ​worldwide to comply with an order to stop doing business with Iranian airlines. Washington says the aim is to ground the entire global ⁠Iranian civilian fleet.

Read: Saudi Arabia reports fresh Houthi attacks, issues warning for Makkah

Iran threatened on Wednesday to retaliate against any neighbouring countries that comply with the US ban on its flights, by making their airports &quot;unusable&quot;.

There were no immediate public announcements from countries ​that they were halting flights, but Iran&#39;s ISNA news agency said all flights to the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf&#39;s biggest travel hub, had been halted as of midnight.

No arrivals or departures ​to Iran were visible on the websites of Dubai or Abu Dhabi airports on Thursday. Websites of at least two Iranian airlines, Qeshm and Varesh, showed UAE flights had been cancelled.&nbsp;

State-run WAM news agency reported the UAE&nbsp;suspended flights by Iranian air carriers to and from the country until further notice.

The General Civil Aviation Authority said the decision took effect today.

In a statement carried by WAM, the authority said that &ldquo;the decision was made in light of the US ban imposed on Iranian airlines from using airports in various countries around the world.&rdquo;

The authority said it would continue to update relevant authorities and the public on any developments until air traffic between the UAE and Iran returned&nbsp;to normal.

It also urged the public to rely only on official sources for information.

The website of Iran&#39;s Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran showed departures and arrivals on Thursday were still scheduled to and from countries including Afghanistan, Armenia, ​China, Iraq, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Turkey, but not nearby Gulf states. ISNA said a flight to Tajikistan had also been turned back because Turkmenistan had closed its airspace.

A flight ban, if ​sustained, could deepen Iran&#39;s isolation and worsen an economic crisis in the country, which is already facing a US blockade of its ports at sea.

&quot;We are living in an open-air prison,&quot; a retired teacher in &zwnj;Tehran told ⁠Reuters by text message on condition her name not be used.]]>
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			<title>Saudi Arabia reports fresh Houthi attacks, issues warning for Makkah</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631200/saudi-arabia-reports-fresh-houthi-attacks-issues-warning-for-makkah</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631200/saudi-arabia-reports-fresh-houthi-attacks-issues-warning-for-makkah#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 13:22:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP .]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631200</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Houthi attacks escalated after renewed hostilities shattered a year-long truce in July]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Saudi Arabia intercepted Houthi ballistic missiles on Thursday after issuing warnings for several regions, including Makkah, as the Iran-backed group ramps up attacks on the kingdom.

The attacks were reported as fighting raged in Yemen between the Houthis and Riyadh-backed government forces, killing dozens on both sides, according to a tally from seven sources who spoke to AFP.



#BREAKING: Saudi Arabia&#39;s National Early Warning Platform announced the potential danger has passed in Makkah, Taif and Jeddah pic.twitter.com/1VhD0fEcLh
&mdash; Saudi Gazette (@Saudi_Gazette) September 24, 2026


The missiles were the latest in a series of escalating Houthi attacks since July, when renewed hostilities shattered a years-long truce and embroiled Yemen in the wider Middle East war.

Since then, the Houthis have imposed a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, hitting its tankers and territory and seizing swathes of Yemen&#39;s Red Sea coast, which is vital for Saudi oil exports.

The Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen&#39;s government since 2015 against the Houthis said six ballistic missiles had been intercepted, thwarting attacks on Taif and Yanbu.

&quot;Escalations and violations by the terrorist Houthi militia will be dealt with firmly,&quot; said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki in a series of posts on X.



التحالف :

تصعيد وإنتهاكات الميليشيا الحوثية الإرهابية سيتم التعامل معها بحزم.
&mdash; المتحدث الرسمي باسم قوات التحالف (@CJFCSpox) September 24, 2026


Earlier, the Saudi Civil Defence had issued a brief series of alerts including one for Makkah, with separate warnings for the Red Sea governorate of Yanbu as well as the Taif, Jeddah and Tabuk regions.

Read More: Saudi Aramco chief says disrupted oil operations can be restored &#39;within days&#39;

The alerts were lifted a few minutes later. In recent weeks, alerts have often preceded attacks by the Houthis.

Last week, Riyadh accused the group of targeting Mecca for the first time since 2017 with a drone that was downed, an accusation the Houthis denied.

A few days later, the group attacked the Saudi capital Riyadh,&nbsp;the first in years, marking a new escalation in the conflict.

Strategic hilltops

As the Houthi attacks targeted Saudi Arabia on Thursday, battles raged on the ground in Yemen.

At least 150 Houthi fighters and government forces members have been killed in the past 24 hours, sources from both sides told AFP, including in clashes over hilltops overlooking the Bab al-Mandab strait at the mouth of the Red Sea.

At least 98 soldiers and government forces members were killed, according to an AFP tally compiled from five military sources.

Most were killed in Houthi ballistic missile and drone attacks, with dozens of Yemeni troops killed on the Saudi side of the border that they are tasked with guarding.

At least 52 Houthi fighters were killed, two sources from the group said.

Many on both sides were also killed in clashes in the Kahboub Mountains and in areas between the Lahj and Taiz regions, as the Houthis seek to dominate the highlands overlooking Bab al-Mandab to protect newly seized territory.

In July, a fragile 2022 truce between the Houthis and Yemen&#39;s government fell apart after the group allowed an Iranian plane to land in Sanaa in defiance of Riyadh&#39;s control over Yemeni airspace, setting off a spate of attacks.

The Houthis later announced a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia and began hitting its tankers and territory.

Their gains cement the hold of Iran and its allies on the two waterways that the wider Gulf, including top crude exporter Saudi Arabia, relies on to ship out its oil and other fuel products.]]>
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			<title>Shutdown in India's Ladakh marks anniversary of deadly autonomy protests</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631203/shutdown-in-indias-ladakh-marks-anniversary-of-deadly-autonomy-protests</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631203/shutdown-in-indias-ladakh-marks-anniversary-of-deadly-autonomy-protests#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 14:16:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631203</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Shops and businesses closed and streets emptied in Leh on Thursday after a Buddhist group called for a shutdown]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Residents in India&#39;s Ladakh staged a virtual shutdown of the main city on Thursday to mark a year since four people were killed during protests demanding greater regional autonomy.

On September 24, 2025, security forces opened fire as demonstrations turned violent in the sparsely populated, high-altitude Himalayan region.

The discontent stems from a 2019 decision by the Indian government to revoke Ladakh&#39;s partial autonomy and impose direct rule.

Shops and businesses in the city of Leh remained shut and streets were deserted on Thursday, witnesses said, following calls for a shutdown by a Buddhist group.

&quot;The shutdown is to commemorate those who laid down their lives for Ladakh and express solidarity with their families, and ... to highlight our demands for autonomy,&quot; a member of the Ladakh Buddhist Association told AFP, declining to be named.

Residents organised special Buddhist prayers to commemorate those they called the &quot;martyrs&quot; of the protests.

Ladakh is strategically important to India as it borders regional rivals China and Pakistan.

The vast desert region is sparsely populated, with around 300,000 residents, half of them Muslim and about 40% Buddhist.

Read More: India&#39;s &#39;cockroach&#39; movement says will launch protest if poll panel chief doesn&#39;t quit in 48 hours

Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s government split Ladakh from Indian-occupied Kashmir in 2019, residents have said the end of semi-autonomy has stripped them of protections over land, jobs, resources and cultural identity.

New Delhi now makes most development decisions, which officials from outside Ladakh tend to implement, sidelining the locally elected council.

On Wednesday, Ladakh&#39;s New Delhi-appointed top administrator said some of the 89 people charged after last year&#39;s protests would no longer face criminal prosecution.

&quot;In the larger interest of peace, public tranquility, and social harmony in Ladakh, I have approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 20 individuals, related to the unfortunate violence that erupted in Leh on September 24 last year,&quot; Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said.

&quot;The decision aims at fostering a more peaceful, united, and harmonious society in Ladakh.&quot;

Negotiations with the federal home ministry have continued since the protests, but residents have secured only limited gains so far.

The government has reserved 85%&nbsp;of jobs for locals and said Indians from outside Ladakh will not be able to acquire domicile status in the region until 2036.

But residents are demanding comprehensive autonomy under the &quot;Sixth Schedule&quot; of India&#39;s constitution, which would allow a local legislature to make laws on land use, jobs and traditional livelihoods.]]>
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			<title>Hacked FBI data has sensitive information about employees’ intelligence roles</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631214/hacked-fbi-data-has-sensitive-information-about-employees-intelligence-roles</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631214/hacked-fbi-data-has-sensitive-information-about-employees-intelligence-roles#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 26 15:36:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category><category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2631214</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[FBI says it is aware of a cyber-criminal enterprise group claiming a compromise of the FBIJobs.gov portal]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[FBI data allegedly stolen by the hacking group ShinyHunters carries granular detail about scores of bureau officials&rsquo; ​job assignments, including sensitive work against Chinese spies, Russian intelligence, drug cartels, and more, Reuters has found.

The 5,000-line spreadsheet &mdash;&nbsp;said by the hackers to represent only a small piece of &zwnj;their claimed two- to three-terabyte trove &mdash;&nbsp;includes names, addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and emergency contact details for what they claimed were thousands of FBI employees. It also includes details of assignments to specific field offices and, in some cases, to units engaged in high-stakes intelligence, security, or counterespionage work.

In a statement, the FBI said it was aware of &quot;a cyber-criminal enterprise group claiming a compromise of the FBIJobs.gov portal and alleged impact to FBI employee personally identifiable information&quot;.

The bureau ​said the cause of the breach was still undetermined, but that it was &quot;actively and aggressively investigating the matter&quot;.

The hackers said that they had breached the FBI, stealing data on a ​large number of current and former FBI employees. ShinyHunters said it is holding the data hostage until the bureau rescinds an unflattering statement about the group issued ⁠in May.

Read: FBI chief discusses specialised training to combat counterterrorism financing with Naqvi, hails &#39;critical&#39; Pak-US partnership

Former FBI counterintelligence operative Eric O&rsquo;Neill said the data allegedly stolen by ShinyHunters was &ldquo;a foreign intelligence service goldmine&rdquo;.

&ldquo;China would be incredibly interested to know the individuals who are working against it,&rdquo; said O&rsquo;Neill, who founded ​the cybersecurity company Nexasure AI after his stint at the bureau. He predicted that other hostile intelligence services would be eager to get their hands on the data, along with disgruntled extremists in the United States.

&ldquo;If I ​were on that list, I would be very concerned,&rdquo; he said.

ShinyHunters said in a statement on Wednesday that it was trying to keep the personnel information from circulating widely in the meantime.

&ldquo;If the 5,000 sample data records leak, it&rsquo;s not because of us,&rdquo; the group said.

Although Reuters has not been able to authenticate the entire spreadsheet, it has been able to individually verify the details of more than 22 people by cross-referencing information in the hacked data with credit records and previous data leaks ​carried by the dark web intelligence platform District 4 Labs.

Counterterrorism, counterintelligence and surveillance

Some of the assignment details in the ShinyHunters&rsquo; data are indistinguishable from what employees themselves might say publicly, noting agents at field offices in ​Baltimore or Newark, New Jersey, for example.

But in some cases, the data referred to FBI units or initiatives that were sensitive or whose existence has not previously been disclosed.

The data names 14 staffers focused on China-related matters, including members &zwnj;of the &ldquo;China criminal ⁠enterprise unit&rdquo;, the &ldquo;China tech transfer analysis unit&rdquo; and the &ldquo;China intelligence section&rdquo;.

Nine others are listed as serving in Russia-related roles, including two in the &ldquo;Russia Operations Section&rdquo; and one working on &ldquo;Russia Critical Infra and Tech Threat&rdquo;. Three people are listed as working in Iran- or Hezbollah-focused intelligence roles.

Eighteen others are listed as working with &ldquo;data intercept&rdquo; or &ldquo;telecom intercept&rdquo; technologies, or in the FBI&rsquo;s &ldquo;clandestine technical operations&rdquo; unit, or its &ldquo;covert access section&rdquo; or in video, audio, or electronic surveillance roles.

A further 11 FBI staffers are listed as working in HUMINT, or human intelligence, jobs, including several listed as working in the &ldquo;Humint programme management section&rdquo;.

Read more: &lsquo;Extreme concern&rsquo; as OpenAI&rsquo;s &lsquo;rogue agent&rsquo; breached Australian govt health database

Trevor Hilligoss, a former army investigator who worked with the FBI, said ​the information tying specific named people to human intelligence ​work was particularly troubling.

&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to look ⁠far to find examples of undercover agents being harmed when their cover is blown,&rdquo; he said.

Hilligoss, now the chief intelligence officer for cybersecurity company SpyCloud, said his concerns were heightened by the inclusion of emergency contacts &mdash;&nbsp;often spouses or children &mdash;&nbsp;&ldquo;who may have less operational security knowledge than their relative that works in a sensitive ​field&rdquo;.

Reuters could not verify that all the job assignments were authentic or up-to-date, but it was able to match the career details or titles of eight ​people whose data was leaked ⁠to information in court filings, news articles, or public profiles on LinkedIn or to online posts on sites such as Instagram.

Other targets

ShinyHunters previously claimed credit for the purported theft of millions of business records from video game developer Rockstar Games, the maker of &quot;Grand Theft Auto&quot;, and an intrusion focused on the education tool Canvas that triggered widespread disruption across US schools.

In May, the FBI said ShinyHunters sometimes used &ldquo;exaggerated claims of access to sensitive or personal information to prompt payment from ⁠victims&rdquo;.

ShinyHunters said ​its &quot;threats and claims are very real&rdquo;, adding that the FBI&#39;s statement was why it targeted the bureau.

Reuters has not been able to ​verify what else the hackers are holding. ShinyHunters previously told Reuters they obtained files related to the vetting of employees and applicants, the contracting of background investigations, and agents&#39; sensitive medical data, but said on Wednesday it would not release any further data.

O&rsquo;Neill, the ​former FBI operative, cautioned against drawing conclusions about what the hackers hold.

&ldquo;They&rsquo;re really trying to scare the hell out of the FBI,&rdquo; he noted.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan unveils 10-year national plan to conserve shark populations</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628098/pakistan-unveils-10-year-national-plan-to-conserve-shark-populations</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628098/pakistan-unveils-10-year-national-plan-to-conserve-shark-populations#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 26 07:52:16 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2628098</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Plan covers all chondrichthyan species found in Pakistani waters, including sharks, rays, skates, chimaeras]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Tuesday unveiled Pakistan&rsquo;s first 10-year national action plan for shark conservation, under which the government would restore declining shark populations, curb illegal finning and bycatch, protect critical marine habitats and promote sustainable fisheries in Pakistani waters through 2035.

The plan will be implemented in three phases by the Marine Fisheries Department and backed by an estimated $3.8 million to $5 million in funding during its first five years.

In a statement, Chaudhry said that the National Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks (NPOA-Sharks Pakistan 2025-2035) would be overseen by a multi-stakeholder National Advisory Committee. He further added that the plan sought to strengthen fisheries management and enforcement while improving data collection and scientific research on shark populations.

Among the proposed measures are mandatory fins-naturally-attached policies, species-specific protections, shark sanctuaries, mangrove restoration and steps to reduce shark deaths as bycatch across different fisheries. The plan also seeks to improve the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities through targeted support, while encouraging sustainable shark fisheries and greater international cooperation, including through the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission.

The minister said that the implementation would be assessed annually against performance indicators such as landing-site monitoring coverage, completion of stock assessments, deployment of vessel monitoring systems and reductions in bycatch mortality. Formal reviews would be carried out every three years.

Read: Seafood exports jump to $568m

The plan covers all chondrichthyan species found in Pakistani waters, including sharks, rays, skates and chimaeras, with particular focus on species targeted by fisheries or facing high levels of bycatch mortality.

&ldquo;Although the primary emphasis is on sharks, the management frameworks, data collection systems and enforcement mechanisms established through the NPOA will also benefit other elasmobranch species,&rdquo; the minister said.

He said the action plan had been tailored to Pakistan&rsquo;s ecological, institutional and socioeconomic conditions while remaining aligned with the Food and Agriculture Organisation&rsquo;s International Plan of Action for Sharks and other international best practices.

Preparation of the plan fulfilled Pakistan&rsquo;s responsibilities as a shark-fishing nation under international fisheries law, he added.

The FAO&rsquo;s international shark action plan encourages countries to develop national conservation and management plans, minimise waste and promote sustainable fishing practices. Chaudhry said that &ldquo;responsible management of marine resources must come first&rdquo;, stressing the need for stronger safeguards for vulnerable shark species and those whose capture is prohibited.]]>
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			<title>NDMA issues nationwide alert ahead of pre-monsoon rains, warns of hazards</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2615432/ndma-issues-nationwide-alert-ahead-of-pre-monsoon-rains-warns-of-hazards</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2615432/ndma-issues-nationwide-alert-ahead-of-pre-monsoon-rains-warns-of-hazards#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 26 14:34:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Says intermittent pre-monsoon rains expected from June 28 to July 3]]>
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				<![CDATA[National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday advised citizens to stay alert as intermittent pre-monsoon rains were expected across Pakistan from June 28 to July 3.

According to NDMA&nbsp;officials talking to media channels, a dangerous combination of intense heat and expected pre-monsoon rainfall was likely to accelerate glacier melting, triggering a sharp rise in water levels in rivers and streams across Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), and Azad Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.

The authority warned that vulnerable mountainous regions face heightened risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), flash floods, and landslides during the forecast period due to rapidly changing and unstable weather conditions.



NDMA issues strong countrywide alert ahead of pre-monsoon rainfall spell, warns of hazards pic.twitter.com/JuCxbEGIZu
&mdash; APP (@appcsocialmedia) June 28, 2026


Residents, tourists and travellers have been strongly advised to exercise extreme caution in high-risk districts, including Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar, Ghanche, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Upper and Lower Chitral and Swat, where sudden weather shifts could create life-threatening situations.

NDMA further urged the public to strictly avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams, glacial lakes and riverbanks, stressing the importance of immediate reporting of any unusual or hazardous conditions to local authorities to prevent loss of life and property.

Read More:&nbsp;Lahore swelters before monsoon

Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) have been placed on high alert with strict instructions to ensure full emergency preparedness, rapid response capability and coordinated action in case of any disaster triggered by the expected weather system.

Overall, NDMA&nbsp;stressed that timely precautions, strict adherence to safety advisories, and coordinated preparedness at all levels were essential to minimise risks, protect lives and reduce potential damage from the expected weather-related hazards.]]>
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			<title>Govt decides to end fuel subsidies after sharp decline in global oil prices</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2614572/govt-decides-to-end-fuel-subsidies-after-sharp-decline-in-global-oil-prices</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2614572/govt-decides-to-end-fuel-subsidies-after-sharp-decline-in-global-oil-prices#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 26 17:51:19 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2614572</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Committee agrees to withdraw fuel subsidies after benefit already passed on to consumers]]>
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				<![CDATA[Owing to a sharp decline in global fuel prices, the government on Monday decided to discontinue fuel subsidies provided to motorcyclists, small farmers and public transport.

The development comes after recent reductions in petroleum prices, under which petrol was cut by Rs74 per litre and diesel by Rs67 per litre, bringing them down to Rs299 per litre and Rs311 per litre respectively, following a decline in the international market after the US and Iran reached an agreement to end a conflict that had lasted over three months.

The decision was taken during the seventh meeting of the National Steering Committee on Fuel Subsidy, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.



Deputy Prime Minister &amp; Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 chaired the 7th meeting of the National Steering Committee on Fuel Subsidy.

The Committee reviewed the rollout of fuel subsidy for motorcyclists, small farmers, public transport &amp; goods transport in&hellip; pic.twitter.com/I4X55tPKNV
&mdash; Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) June 22, 2026


The committee reviewed the rollout of fuel subsidy for motorcyclists, small farmers, public transport and goods transport across all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Noting the sharp decline in global fuel prices and that the benefit had already been passed on to consumers, the committee agreed to discontinue the subsidy, with the prime minister&rsquo;s approval.

While appreciating the committee&rsquo;s work marked by sustained interprovincial coordination, the deputy prime minister directed that lessons learnt from the exercise be documented and gaps in data and delivery be addressed to strengthen future initiatives aimed at improving public service delivery.

Also Read: Govt disburses Rs38b in fuel subsidy

The meeting was attended by SAPM Tariq Bajwa, federal secretaries of petroleum and IT, the State Bank of Pakistan governor and senior representatives from all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Following the oil price surge in the global market after the US-Iran conflict, the government significantly increased petroleum product prices after initially deciding to absorb the burden.

At one point, petrol prices had reached Rs458 per litre in April this year. However, days later, the prime minister announced an immediate Rs80 per litre reduction in the petroleum levy to provide relief to the public.

While announcing the relief, the prime minister also unveiled a fuel subsidy package aimed at shielding the public from rising fuel costs triggered by tensions in the Gulf region.

Under that initiative, motorcyclists were to receive a subsidy of Rs100 per litre, while goods transport, public transport and freight vehicles were also provided support for one month.

Under the same relief measures, small trucks were given Rs70,000 per month, large trucks Rs80,000 and public transport buses Rs100,000 as monthly subsidies.

The initiative also included support for small farmers, who were provided Rs1,500 per acre in assistance.]]>
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			<title>Govt moves to fully digitise passport issuance system</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2614022/passport-system-to-go-fully-digital-with-e-passport-rollout</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2614022/passport-system-to-go-fully-digital-with-e-passport-rollout#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 26 07:45:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Preparatory work for home delivery of passports in Pakistan, abroad completed, service will be launched soon]]>
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				<![CDATA[The government on Friday decided to transition its passport issuance system to a complete e-passport framework as part of sweeping reforms aimed at modernising immigration services and eliminating fraud.

According to the Interior Ministry, a high-level meeting on Passport and Immigration was held at the headquarters under the chairmanship of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, where key decisions regarding the digital overhaul of the system were approved.

A principal decision was taken to fully shift passport issuance to e-passports, with the move aimed at reducing fraud and forgery in the passport system. However, no deadline has been announced for the phase-out of existing passports.



وزیر داخلہ محسن نقوی کی زیر صدارت پاسپورٹ اینڈ امیگریشن ہیڈکوارٹرز میں خصوصی اجلاس
ڈی جی پاسپورٹس اینڈ امیگریشن محمد علی رندھاوا نے وفاقی وزیر داخلہ کو تفصیلی بریفنگ دی
پاسپورٹ کے اجراء کو مکمل طور پر ای پاسپورٹ پر منتقل کرنے کا اصولی فیصلہ
ای پاسپورٹ پر منتقلی سے فراڈ اور&hellip; pic.twitter.com/UlOOovm4Yv
&mdash; PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) June 19, 2026


The Director General of Passports and Immigration, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, briefed the minister on ongoing reforms and plans. Officials said premium service applicants will now be charged according to the actual cost of passport services.

According to the briefing, preparatory work for home delivery of passports within Pakistan and abroad had been completed, and the service will be launched soon.

From July 1, a cashless payment system will be introduced at passport offices across the country, and online passport applications will also be shifted to the Pak-ID platform.

The meeting also decided to finalise a policy for business passports in consultation with the Federal Board of Revenue.

Also Read: Public cautioned over multiple passports

The ministry said the reforms are part of broader efforts to make the passport system more efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly.

According to the Ministry of Interior, the e-Passport is a highly secure travel document. It has an electronic chip embedded in one of the passport pages, which will be used to store biometric information about the holder.

The chip contains data that will verify the passport holder&rsquo;s identity and will include the biometrics of the passport holder, the personal data found on the data page of the passport, a unique identification number, and a digital signature.

An e-passport has a contactless chip on it which means that those passports can be read electronically. The newly launched e-Passports in Pakistan are in compliance with the United Nations&rsquo; ICAO standards.]]>
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			<title>PMD forecasts drizzle, light showers in Karachi till Friday</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613639/pmd-forecasts-drizzle-light-showers-in-karachi-till-friday</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613639/pmd-forecasts-drizzle-light-showers-in-karachi-till-friday#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 26 09:51:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Aftab Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Predicts thunderstorms and heavy showers in the northern districts of Sindh]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Wednesday forecast dusty winds and light rain in Karachi till Friday, along with thunderstorms and heavy showers in the northern districts of Sindh, as a westerly weather system continued to affect the region.

The Met Office predicted intermittent drizzle, light showers and scattered rainfall in parts of Karachi during the night as the westerly system maintained its intensity.

It added that Jacobabad, Kashmore, Qambar Shahdadkot, Shikarpur and Ghotki were likely to experience dusty winds, windstorms and moderate rain with thunderstorms until June 20.

The weather department also forecast light to moderate rain in Sukkur, Dadu, Khairpur, Sanghar, Naushahro Feroze, Shaheed Benazirabad and Jamshoro during the forecast period.

Authorities advised residents, particularly those living in areas prone to strong winds and thunderstorms, to remain cautious and stay updated on the latest weather advisories.



Weekly Weather Outlook (17&ndash;23 June 2026)#WeatherUpdate #WeeklyWeather #PakistanWeather #RainAlert #Thunderstorm pic.twitter.com/OOUbIecnr0
&mdash; Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) June 17, 2026



Earlier in the week,&nbsp;PMD&nbsp;forecast widespread dust storms, windstorms and rain-thunderstorms across several parts of the country from June 16, as moist currents from the Arabian Sea were expected to penetrate upper and central regions of Pakistan.

According to the Met Office, the incoming westerly wave was likely to trigger scattered dust storms, windstorms and rain-thunderstorms, accompanied by isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms in various parts of Punjab between June 16 and 20.

Read More:&nbsp;Pakistan braces for widespread dust storms, thunderstorms from June 16

The Met office said Karachi and its surrounding areas may also experience dust storms accompanied by light rain.

It&nbsp;warned that strong winds, hailstorms and lightning could damage vulnerable infrastructure, including solar panels, electric poles and billboards.]]>
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