New Front
The ISPR has confirmed that Pakistan’s air defense network has downed four drones launched by the interim Afghanistan government along the Pak-Afghan border in Balochistan. In a statement, the military’s media wing has attributed the drone launch to Kabul’s “patronization and support” of terrorist outfits operating from within Afghan territory.
Talks Impasse
Iranian officials have said they will not meet U.S. envoys for direct talks until both sides have resolved the terms of a ceasefire signed two weeks ago, raising fears of a return to outright conflict. However, Tehran has said it will continue to communicate through mediators. The two sides were due to commence low-level technical talks this week as part of the 60-day peace framework.
Tragedy in Lahore
At least 14 children were killed and five others injured after the roof of a tuition center collapsed in Lahore’s Kahna area. According to rescue officials, over 30 children were present at the site at the time of the collapse, which has been attributed to ongoing construction work on the building. Authorities have taken five people into custody and launched a formal investigation into the incident.
Under Arrest
Police have arrested a central leader of the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, Shaukat Nawaz Mir, from the Hail Sarang area of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The group is currently staging a sit-in outside Rawalakot to demand the abolishment of 12 seats reserved for refugees from India-held Kashmir. Authorities insist accepting the demand would dent the region’s disputed status.
Indus Waters Treaty
In an international seminar, Pakistan’s political leadership has warned India against further violations to the 1960 agreement, noting the consequences of reneging on international agreements has far-reaching consequences. In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has urged Delhi to work with Islamabad to resolve all issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
Seeking Coalition
The PPP and the JUIF have announced that, if successful in upcoming polls, their candidates would form a coalition government in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. JUIF chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari have also claimed that would consider similar power-sharing set-ups in Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and other regions.
Fake News
The PTI has denied reports alleging Dr. Yasmin Rashid’s health is worsening in Kot Lakhpat Jail, stressing she is alive and facing hardship for the sake of Imran Khan’s ideology. Dr. Rashid has similarly issued a statement through her lawyer, saying she has not penned any will, but has been advised to undergo spinal surgery for an ongoing medical condition.
Interest-Free Pakistan
All new government transactions, including loans, will be contracted on a Shariah-compliant basis from Jan. 1, 2028, as part of a commitment to shift the country to a Riba-free financial system. However, existing arrangements will continue until maturity and a majority of banks and financial institutions will be permitted to offer both conventional and Islamic modes.
Stepping Back
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered a “complete” reconsideration and redraft of the controversial Punjab Control of Habitual Offenders and Anti-Social Behavior Bill, 2026, following opposition from within and outside the party, including civil society. The proposed refinement, per Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, will address public and human rights concerns.
Solitary Confinement
The Islamabad High Court has reserved its verdict on the maintainability of petitions filed by the PTI challenging the alleged solitary confinement in Adiala Jail of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra. During proceedings, the judge observed there was no punishment of solitary confinement, adding if the petitions are found to be maintainable, notices will be issued to jail authorities.