Iran Conflict
Tehran has announced it is tightening its grip over the Strait of Hormuz, saying it will no longer allow U.S. weaponry to transit the shipping lane to its regional bases. Iranian officials have indicated they see the control as a long-term strategic goal, adding they could use the waterway to generate revenue. The latest announcement follows a deadlock in peace talks between Iran and the U.S.
Expanding Tax Net
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is reportedly considering various tax enforcement measures for the coming budget to address under-reporting, non-reporting, under-invoicing, tax evasion and smuggling. The proposed measures aim to improve transparency and documentation through digital tools, with a particular focus on strengthening enforcement measures.
Passport Decline
The Henley Passport Index has ranked Pakistan’s passport at the 100th spot, reducing to 30 the number of destinations Pakistanis have visa-free access to. This is a reduction from the 32 destinations cited in the February rankings, with the Index citing ongoing adjustments in global visa policies and bilateral travel arrangements.
Revising History
The Government of Punjab has decided to add Mark-e-Haq, the four-day war between Pakistan and India from 2025, to the national curriculum, as well as make films on it to highlight the country’s victory. In a statement, the government said the move aims to instill patriotism in the younger generation and boost national unity.
Another Leak
Cambridge has postponed the A-Level Mathematics paper after a leak of the AS-Level paper, adding it will share detailed information with schools by May 22 regarding the approach to be adopted following the latest leak. It said the postponed paper would take place at a revised exam date within the June series adding the result date of Aug. 11 would remain unchanged.
Backing Dialogue
A senior RSS leader and an ex-Indian army chief have backed dialogue with Pakistan, stressing Delhi should keep diplomatic channels open, continue trade and commerce, and issue visas regardless of differences with the political or military leaderships. RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale has emphasized that a window for dialogue should always remain open.
Repatriating Culture
The United States has repatriated more than 450 cultural artefacts to Pakistan, including historically significant objects that were illegally removed from the country and later identified and recovered through close cooperation between U.S. law enforcement agencies and Pakistani authorities. The artefacts will now be preserved and displayed in Pakistan.
Federal Budget
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reportedly tasked Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar with overseeing the creation of the upcoming fiscal year’s budget after expressing dissatisfaction over initial preparations. A committee led by Dar will review, analyze and present tax policy proposals as the IMF undertakes a parallel scrutiny of the new proposals.
Safeguarding Constitution
Main opposition leaders have reiterated a call for a national political consensus to safeguard the Constitution and unity on ensuring the spirit of the 18th Amendment. Senior opposition figures have told media they are expanding their political alignment, as they voiced concerns over governance, institutional functioning and economic conditions.
Inclement Weather
The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a new advisory, forecasting widespread rain, thunderstorms, hailstorms, flash floods and landslides in several parts of the country from May 12-17. The organization has urged provincial and district authorities to remain on high alert and ensure emergency preparedness measures in light of any potential extreme weather events.