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Wednesday, 27 May, 2026 | 10 ZilHaj, 1447
Rs 20.00 | Vol XVII No 62 | 8 Pages | Islamabad Edition
HAjj SERmON STRESSES uNITY, ACCOuNTAbILITY bEFORE GOD AS PILGRImS PERFORm RuKN-E-AzAm g
PRAYERS OFFERED FOR MUSLIM UNITY, UMMAH'S BETTER CONDITIONS IN HAJJ SERMON AS PILGRIMS GATHER AT MOUNT ARAFAT
pakistan rejects abraham accords push, says recognition of israel ‘unacceptable’ ISLAMABAD
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
I
MOUNT ARAFAT, MAKKAH AGENCIES
M A M of the Prophet’s Mosque, Sheikh Ali Al-Hudhaifi, on Tuesday prayed for unity among Muslims and better conditions for them around the world while delivering the Hajj sermon at Masjid-i-Namirah. Huge numbers of Muslims prayed on Mount Arafat, as a harsh desert sun sent temperatures soaring towards 40°C. The imam concluded the sermon with an emotional prayer, seeking acceptance of the pilgrims’ rituals, unity among the Muslim world, and the safe return of pilgrims to their homes. “Oh God, improve the conditions of Muslims, create unity among them, and set them on the path of the truth,” he said, according to a televised Urdu translation. During his sermon, Sheikh Al-Hudhaifi emphasised that Haj is a fundamental pillar of Islam rooted in absolute monotheism and submission to Allah, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. He underscored that the pilgrimage serves as a vital platform for mutual ac-
quaintance, harmony, cooperation, and unity among Muslims of all nationalities and backgrounds. The sermon also highlighted the primary pillars of Islam, the importance of fearing Allah (taqwa), and the “universal laws of divine support for believers”, the outlet said. “Sheikh Al-Hudhaifi noted that a proper pilgrimage requires excellent conduct, truthful speech, and the avoidance of sins, disputes, and partisan or political slogans,” SPA added. The sermon emphasised that true honour lies in piety, sincerity, and the oneness of Allah (Tawhid), warning Muslims against associating partners with Him (Shirk). Sheikh Al-Hudhaifi urged Muslims to abandon division, falsehood, gossip, and hatred, and instead strengthen brotherhood, patience, and righteousness, state-run APP reported. From daybreak, thousands of whiterobed worshippers recited Quranic verses on the 70-metre rocky hill near Makkah, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his last sermon. The Haj follows the path of the
Security forces eliminate 11 Indian-sponsored Khwarij in fierce North Waziristan operations RAWALPINDI
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
In a continuation of intelligence-based operations under the ongoing counterterrorism campaign, security forces successfully neutralised 11 terrorists belonging to the Indian-sponsored Fitna-al-Khwarij during multiple engagements in Datta Khel area of North Waziristan over the last 48 hours. According to security sources, the operations were conducted on intelligence reports regarding the presence of terrorists in different locations of the area. During intense and fierce exchanges of fire, the security forces effectively targeted and eliminated the militants, dealing a major blow to terrorist networks operating in the region. Officials said weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed terrorists, who had remained actively involved in numerous acts of terrorism and subversive activities in the area. Security forces have launched sanitisation operations in the region to eliminate any remaining militants hiding in nearby areas. Sources said the counterterrorism drive under the vision of “Azm-e-Istehkam,” approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan, would continue with full momentum to eradicate the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan. The security forces and law enforcement agencies reaffirmed their resolve to continue operations until complete peace and stability are restored in the country.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday firmly rejected any possibility of Pakistan joining the Abraham Accords, declaring that the recognition of Israel was “unacceptable” as it conflicted with Pakistan’s fundamental ideology and longstanding stance on Palestine. Speaking to a private television channel, the defence minister dismissed reports suggesting any progress or diplomatic engagement regarding Pakistan’s possible inclusion in the USbacked normalization initiative. “Neither has anyone contacted us from the US State Department nor has anyone conveyed such a proposal officially,” Khawaja Asif said when asked whether Washington or any other party had approached Islamabad on the matter. Reaffirming Pakistan’s consistent Prophet’s (PBUH) final pilgrimage about 1,400 years ago. Following the address, the pilgrims performed the Zuhr and Asr prayers combined and shortened, in line with the prophetic tradition, SPA reported. The congregational prayer and sermon were attended by several high-ranking officials, including Makkah Deputy Governor Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and Grand Mufti of the Kingdom Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan. SPA highlighted Namirah Mosque’s importance as “one of the most prominent Islamic landmarks in the holy sites because of its connection to the location where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his farewell sermon”. “The mosque was named after Mount Namirah located in the area. It oc-
policy, he noted that even Pakistani passports do not recognise Israel. “Even our passport does not carry the name of Israel,” he remarked. The minister said the ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza and repeated violations of agreements made any normalization impossible under the current circumstances. “The Gaza agreement is still being violated. How can we sit with those who are not reliable even for a single day?” he questioned. Commenting on former US President Donald Trump’s diplomatic style, Khawaja Asif acknowledged that Trump had achieved certain breakthroughs through what he described as an "unconventional approach". “President Trump has been successful because of his unconventional approach. His peace talks have become successful,” he observed.
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cupies a strategic location north of Arafat, approximately 22 kilometres from the Grand Mosque, and is classified as the second-largest mosque in the holy sites area,” according to SPA. Earlier in the day, the Makkah General Transport Centre announced the completion of the movement of pilgrims to Arafat at 7:56am, two hours ahead of the timing achieved during last year’s Haj. The movement operations covered three modes of transport: shuttle buses, traditional transport, and the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro Project. After Mount Arafat, pilgrims will spend the night in Muzdalifah, where they will collect pebbles for the symbolic “stoning of the devil” ritual in Mina, starting on Wednesday.
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'Another prolonged conflict would serve no one,' Dar warns UNSC, urges restraint in Middle East NEW YOR/ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Tuesday called for restraint and de-escalation in the Middle East, warning the United Nations Security Council that another prolonged conflict would endanger regional peace and further strain the fragile international order. He arrived in New York on Tuesday for an official visit from May 26 to 28 to participate in a high-level United Nations Security Council (UNSC) open debate convened under China’s presidency of the council. The highlevel debate is titled “Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter and Strengthening the UN-Centered International System”. Addressing an open debate of the United Nations Security Council during China’s presidency, FM Dar said, while referring to the ongoing efforts to achieve a resolution to the conflict between Iran and the United States: “The entire world is watching. We must succeed in the interest of regional and global peace and security."
He added that the principle of peaceful settlement must apply equally to all long-standing disputes on the Security Council’s agenda. Dar said Pakistan had consistently advocated restraint, de-escalation and diplomacy. “As a friendly neighbour of Iran and brotherly countries of the Gulf, Pakistan consistently stood for restraint, de-escalation and a return to diplomacy,” he said. He added that during his recent visit to Beijing, Pakistan and China had announced a five-point initiative for peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East while warning that another conflict would be a great threat not only for the re-
gion but for the entire world. “Another prolonged conflict would serve no one,” Dar warned. “It would endanger regional peace, disrupt global energy flows, deepen humanitarian suffering and strain an already fragile international order.” The foreign minister said Pakistan had worked to facilitate “a durable solution that results in lasting peace and stability in the region and keeps maritime routes open for all”. FM Dar said the world was facing “deepening divisions and growing disregard for international law”, stressing the need for a stronger UN-centred international system.
EID HOLIDAYS NOTIFICATION On the occasion of Eidul Azha, the office of Pakistan Today will remain closed on May 27 and 28. Consequently, the newspaper will not be published on May 28 and 29. The publication will resume on May 30 as per routine.
Pakistan warns India against 'water aggression', urges respect for Indus Waters Treaty ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik on Tuesday issued a strong warning against what he termed “water aggression” and attempts to undermine international water-sharing agreements, urging India to fully respect the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960. Addressing the Fourth High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” (2018–2028) in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the minister cautioned that unilateral actions targeting transboundary rivers could trigger serious global challenges related to water security, food production and climate resilience. Dr Malik accused India of politicising shared water resources in violation of longstanding international commitments and warned that efforts to weaken international water-sharing frameworks could jeopardise the rights of downstream countries across the world. “Water aggression is unacceptable,” the minister declared, stressing that no country should be allowed to use water as a weapon or suspend international treaties unilaterally while depriving other nations of their legitimate water rights. He urged India to honour the Indus Waters Treaty and respect international mediation mechanisms, warning that any move to place the treaty in abeyance would establish a dangerous precedent for downstream nations globally. Brokered by the World Bank in 1960, the Indus Waters Treaty allocates the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum and Chenab — to Pakistan, while the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas and Sutlej — are allocated to India. The minister’s remarks come amid heightened tensions following India’s unilateral announcement in April 2025 suspending its obligations under the treaty after the Pahalgam incident in occupied Kashmir, in which 26 tourists were killed. New Delhi blamed Islamabad for the attack without presenting evidence. Pakistan rejected India’s move, describing any attempt to suspend its water share as an “act of war” and maintaining that the treaty contains no provision allowing unilateral suspension. Dr Malik also referred to a recent supplemental award by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), which upheld Pakistan’s legal position on the treaty and imposed “substantive limits” on India’s capacity to control water flows on the western rivers of the Indus basin.
Govt to announce relief in budget, says Rana Sanaullah ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs Senator Rana Sanaullah said the government is preparing a broad strategy to provide maximum relief to segments of society affected by inflation in the upcoming federal budget. Speaking to the media, Sanaullah said the next budget would bring significant relief for the public and that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would soon formally announce what he described as a public-friendly package. He also said no amendment related to the voters' age limit was under consideration.
pakistan, China reaffirm support for Kashmir resolution, regional peace and CpeC 2.0 expansion ISLAMABAD
MIAN ABRAR
Pakistan and China on Tuesday reiterated their opposition to unilateral actions and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and stability in South Asia, stressing that all outstanding disputes — including the Jammu and Kashmir issue — should be resolved through dialogue, diplomacy and in accordance with international resolutions. The understanding was reached during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s four-day official visit to China at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, according to a comprehensive joint statement issued at the conclusion of the visit. The two sides agreed to deepen strategic coordination and expand cooperation across a broad range of sectors, including economy and trade, energy, digital economy, finance, scientific and technological innovation, artificial intelligence, information and communication technology, water management and
marine affairs. Both countries also agreed to enhance personnel training, consult on advancing trade liberalisation and jointly safeguard the stability and security of industrial and supply chains. China Reaffirms Position on Kashmir The Pakistani side briefed China on the latest developments concerning Jammu and Kashmir, with Beijing reiterating that the dispute was a historical issue that should be resolved peacefully in accordance with the United Nations Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements. The two countries also expressed readiness to conduct trans-boundary water resources cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. Reaffirming the importance of regional peace and security, both sides stressed the need to prevent terrorist organisations from using any territory to threaten regional stability. Referring to the recent informal talks among China, Pakistan and Afghanistan held in Urumqi, the statement underlined that no
individual or group — including Tehreek-eTaliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) — should be allowed to use any territory for terrorist activities. Pakistan-China Friendship Called ‘Rock Solid’ During the visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with both sides reaching broad consensus on further strengthening the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.As both countries celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the statement described the Pakistan-China friendship as a “strategic asset” built and nurtured by generations of leadership in both countries. “Throughout the 75 years of diplomatic relations, this friendship has remained rock solid no matter how the international and regional situations evolved,” the statement noted. The two countries pledged to accelerate efforts to build an even closer “China-Pak-
istan Community with a Shared Future in the New Era.” Pakistan also reiterated support for President Xi Jinping’s major global initiatives,
including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) and Global Governance Initiative (GGI).