g IRANIAN FM MAKES SECOND PAKISTAN VISIT IN TWO DAYS AFTER MUSCAT CONSULTATIONS A S DIPLOMATIC MOMENTUM BUILDS TO AVERT WIDER REGIONAL ESCALATION
g TEHRAN’S REGIONAL SHUTTLE DIPLOMACY INTENSIFIES AMID EFFORTS TO END US-IRAN WAR
g IRAN SAYS LATEST CONSULTATIONS UNRELATED TO NUCLEAR NEGOTIATIONS
departed for Moscow on Sunday after a brief stop in Pakistan his second visit to Islamabad in as many days following a trip to Muscat as part of his three-nation diplomatic tour, as US President Donald Trump said Iran could reach out if it wanted to negotiate an end to the war in the Middle East FM Araghchi s regional shuttle diplomacy comes amid intensified efforts notably involving Pakistan to bring Tehran and Washington back to the negotiating table in a bid to end the conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 Diplomatic sources said Araghchi arrived at Nur Khan Airbase after completing a day-long visit to Muscat, where he held consultations as part of Tehran’s broader regional diplomatic outreach During his brief stay in Islamabad the Iranian foreign minister was expected to meet senior Pakistani officials before departing for Moscow for further consultations, the sources said In a late-night post on X, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri
Moghadam confirmed the conclusion of Araghchi s second round of talks in Pakistan He thanked the government mili-
tary and people of Pakistan, particularly Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, for what he described as “tireless efforts” and a “good office initiative” aimed at ending the war and restoring lasting peace in the region Moghadam said like the previous round, the latest visit was conducted in a secure and stable environment, praising Pakistan’s planning, coordination and hospitality
Meanwhile Iranian state media reported that Araghchi s latest discussions with Pakistani officials would include key regional security issues, including a proposed new legal framework governing the Strait of Hormuz, compensation for wartime losses, guarantees against renewed military aggression and the lifting of the naval blockade imposed on Iran
According to Tasnim News Agency the talks are unrelated to Iran s nuclear programme and are focused solely on warrelated diplomatic and strategic matters
In Washington, Trump said Iran remained free to initiate contact if it wanted to negotiate
Speaking in Florida after cancelling a planned envoy-level visit, Trump said the Iranian offer made through diplomatic channels was “a lot, but not enough,” signalling that Washington remained unconvinced by Tehran’s latest position
dent’s
g TALKS IN ISLAMABAD FOCUS ON STRAIT OF HORMUZ, BLOCKADE AND WARTIME COMPENSATION
An earlier round of talks in Islamabad led by Vice President JD Vance for the US side and Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf ended without any breakthrough
including construction and mining equipment, port machinery, oil drilling machinery and renewable wind energy systems
According to a post on X by the Presidency the visit focused on smart manufacturing and technology transfer in construction and clean energy, with an emphasis on modernising Pakistan s infrastructure through global partnerships
President Zardari appreciated the scale sophistication and technological depth of Sany s manufacturing ecosystem according to a statement issued by the President Secretariat s Media Wing He stressed the need to strengthen cooperation in industrial technology skill development and joint ventures saying such partnerships could play a vital role in supporting Pakistan s infrastructure development and industrial expansion
The president also highlighted the potential for collaboration in construction machinery digital manufacturing clean energy and en-
Following the cancellation of the latest diplomatic engagement, two Boeing C-17 Globemaster III aircraft carrying US security personnel equipment and vehicles used for official protection departed Pakistan on Sunday according to two Pakistani government sources The back-to-back diplomatic movements underscore the fluid regional situation as efforts to revive dialogue and prevent further escalation
gineering solutions
During the visit President Zardari was given a detailed briefing on Sany s operations including its core business segments of concrete machinery, excavators, cranes, piling equipment and road machinery
He toured the company’s flagship No 18 Factory a digitally integrated manufacturing facility recognised for advanced automation and data-driven production systems
The president was briefed on the factory’s intelligent operational systems high automation rate and its role as a benchmark for modern industrial manufacturing
He noted the scale of technological integration and said such advanced systems held significant relevance for countries seeking to modernise industrial production and improve operational efficiency
President Zardari was also informed about the company s financial and operational performance, including its 2024 operating revenue of $11 27 billion, product segmentation and sustained investment in innovation and R&D
BUSINESS SECTOR WARNS OF COST SHOCK
China launches Pakistan’s PRSC-EO3 satellite in 640th long march mission
g rEmotE sEnsing satEllitE placEd into orbit from taiyuan, Expanding Earth obsErvation capacit y with ai-EnablEd imaging and national planning applications
infrastructure, supporting applications in natural resource monitoring, disaster management, environmental assessment and food security planning alongside wider socio-economic uses
using
in Shanxi
Long March-6 rocket, in the 640th mission of the Long March launch series state media reported The satellite lifted off at 8:15 pm (1215 GMT) and entered its planned orbit, confirming a successful deployment shortly after launch The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) confirmed the development describing EO-3 as an indigenous electro-optical satellite that marks a further milestone in Pakistan s expanding Earth observation and space technology capabilities PRSC-EO3 is designed to strengthen Pakistan’s remote sensing
In addition to its core imaging role the satellite carries advanced experimental systems, including a multigeometry imaging module to improve imaging precision, an upgraded energy storage system and an onboard AIbased data processing unit capable of enabling real-time analysis and intelligent decision support Officials said the new satellite significantly enhances data continuity, imaging reliability and analytical accuracy within Pakistan’s Earth observation network reinforcing its utility across multiple national planning sectors
The Inter-Services Public Relations (Inter-Services Public Relations) stated that the satellite s imaging outputs will support urban planning, disaster re-
sponse, food security and environmental protection, positioning it as a key tool for operational and strategic use The launch was widely described by senior leadership as a major technological achievement President Asif Ali Zardari termed it a historic milestone highlighting Pakistan s progress in scientific self-reliance and space capability development, while acknowledging China’s continued cooperation in the sector Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also praised SUPARCO engineers and scientists reaffirming government commitment to advancing the national space programme and appreciating China s support in achieving the launch Officials further noted that EO-3 will contribute to the development of a broader Earth Observation system aimed at improving data-driven governance and strengthening national planning capacity across key socio-economic sectors
Rwanda seeks agric ultural technology, research link ages with UAF
PR OFIT
M o n i to r i n g D e s k Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Pakistan Harerimana Fatou has called for stronger collaboration with Pakistan in agriculture emphasising that structured partnerships in research, technology transfer and academic exchanges could help both countries tackle food security challenges and improve farm productivity
The envoy made these remarks during a visit to the University of Agriculture Faisalabad where she met Vice Chancellor Zulfiqar Ali and senior uni-
versity officials including deans and directors to discuss expanding cooperation in education and the agriculture sector
Officials from both sides explored avenues to formalise institutional linkages and launch joint initiatives aimed at advancing agricultural research strengthening academic collaboration and promoting the adoption of modern farming technologies
Highlighting agriculture s central role in Rwanda s economy, Ms Fatou noted that around 65 percent of the country’s population depends on the sector for livelihoods making international knowledge-sharing partnerships
critical for sustainable development
She said the technical expertise and research capacity available at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad could significantly support Rwanda s efforts to modernise its farming systems
She stressed that enhanced student and faculty exchange programmes, combined with technology transfer mechanisms, would help build durable partnerships capable of delivering long-term gains in agricultural productivity and rural development
Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali described the visit as a constructive step toward deepening academic and scientific cooperation between the two countries
He reaffirmed the university’s readiness to facilitate collaborative research share agricultural innovations and provide technical support to partner institutions in Rwanda He added that sustained engagement between universities and research institutions would not only strengthen food security outcomes but also lay the foundation for broader economic and development cooperation between the two nations
During her visit, the high commissioner also toured key university facilities, including the Pak Korea Nutrition Centre, the Centre for Advanced Studies the Expo Centre and the Solar Park where she was briefed on ongoing research and infrastructure supporting agricultural innovation
Araghchi heads to Moscow af ter ‘second Islamabad stop’ as peace push gains pace
Araghchi
statement said It added that the sultan affirmed the importance of prioritising the language of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing issues, in a way that contributed to consolidating the foundations of peace Araghchi expressed Iran’s appreciation for Oman’s positions in “supporting dialogue efforts and enhancing endeavours for security and stability in the region especially amid the current regional challenges , the statement said
Separately, Iran’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the security in the Strait of Hormuz and broader Gulf waters and diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran were discussed during the meeting It quoted Araghchi as saying the US military presence in the Middle East was fuelling insecurity and division It said he called for a regional security framework free of outside interference during the meeting
Separately Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported that he also held a phone call with his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan, and discussed regional developments and ongoing diplomatic processes
Later, state-run news agency IRNA reported that he also held a phone call with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mo-
hammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and exchanged views on the “latest regional developments and ongoing diplomatic efforts”
Araghchi earlier arrived in Islamabad on Friday night and handed over Tehran s response to US proposals for ending the war during meetings with Pakistan’s civil and military leadership before leaving for Oman on Saturday He departed for Muscat after a day of intensive consultations, reportedly aboard a Gulfstream G600 owned by the Pakistan military Neither the Pakistani military nor the Iranian officials confirmed or denied this This suggested Pakistani facilitation of his regional tour to find a diplomatic solution to the conflict A Pakistani source involved in the process said the Iranian side had delivered both its proposals and its perspective on the American proposals Sources said Iran emphasised its terms while indicating readiness to remain engaged in shaping a future diplomatic course Officials familiar with the discussions said Tehran stressed that any framework must be rational and fair and maintained that negotiations cannot proceed under pressure particularly in the presence of the naval blockade of Iranian ports by the US At the same time the Iranian side signalled willingness to stay engaged through Pakistan s mediation but insisted that it would not accept terms seen as undermining its sovereignty or
security interests No details of the proposals were made public The visit unfolded amid indications earlier from Washington that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner would travel to Islamabad to engage with the Iranian delegation However, as Araghchi departed for Moscow, US President Donald Trump called off the trip S TA
Pakistan s civil and military leadership has been engaged in feverish diplomacy, seeking to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table after the first round of talks in Islamabad yielded no result The first round of historic direct USIran talks was held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12 following a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire on April 8 It had ended without an agreement, but also without a breakdown However, the expected second round of negotiations witnessed a delay due to continued friction between the US and Iran particularly regarding Iran s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the US blockade of Iran s ports Meanwhile, Trump has announced an extension in the ceasefire until Tehran submits a “unified proposal” and “discussions are concluded one way or the other” The US has however maintained its blockade of Iranian ports On the other hand the Strait of Hormuz through which one-fifth of the world s oil and gas supply used to pass during peacetime also remains
blocked After the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb 28 Tehran responded by shutting down the strait and later announced it would charge vessels using the maritime route The US earlier this month blockaded Iranian ports
Unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as one of the issues at the core of the impasse between the US and Iran Another point of contention is Washington s demand for long-term commitments
negotiations under pressure, threats or siege, President Masoud Pezeshkian said, according to Mehr News on Sunday He criticised what he described as continued violations and coercive conduct by the United States during both ceasefire negotiations and their implementation Pezeshkian said Washington s socalled maritime restrictions on Iran amounted to a clear breach of ceasefire understandings and were inconsistent with the United Nations Charter Such measures alongside what he called threatening rhetoric, had raised doubts about the US commitment to the diplomatic process
he added Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also condemned the incident on X saying she was relieved to learn that Trump was safe after the gunshots and adding that violence could never be tolerated anywhere in the world The shooting disrupted a high-profile event attended by political figures, journalists and of-
COMMENT
Talks breakdown
TH E indirect diplomacy reached its limit, and resulted in the USA not sending a delegation to Pakistan The Iranian delegation continued its peregrinations to Oman and Egypt The breakdown seems to have occurred because the Iranian proposal communicated to US President Donald Trump seemed so distant to him that he chose to have his team stay away The fundamental question of the Hormuz Strait has not been settled much to the chagrin of the whole world and of the USA, for either the waterway is open, or it is blockaded The USA has not shown the ability to open it, and the apparent ‘double blockade’ by both countries has left the Strait essentially closed Iran does not seem daunted, rather encouraged, by its initial clash, and thus does not seem willing to give the USA the kind of exit it needs, where Mr Trump and his votaries may claim in November that he has won at the midterm election due then
One immediate consequence of this breakdown has been the breakdown of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and the Israeli resumption of its attempt to conquer Southern Lebanon The logic behind that seems to be the Israeli perception that the USA had wanted it to stop its depredations in Lebanon because it was an Iranian precondition for negotiation and with the breakdown there was no need for Israel to stop
There seems an element of misperception too great for the mediator, Pakistan, to bridge The USA apparently thought the ceasefire and the consequent talks were meant to discuss the terms of surrender In the old days, one of the issues was whether the losing side would retain their arms, or their battle standards It did not change the result: even if they retained their arms, they had lost Iran seemed to think the talks were a sort of renegotiation of the 2013 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, with sanctions lifted and money returned
It now seems that while the current ceasefire will remain in place, there is going to be a further trial of strength, with the USA likely to try some kinetic measure against which Iran will react Will this prove decisive? That will only be so if there is some change Like the rest of the world Pakistan can only watch There is little it can do now except make increasingly futile efforts for peace
Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit
Israel has long been violating the sovereignty of many states to support its horrendous agenda of Greater Israel It has severely violated international law by breaching sovereignty of the states targeting civilians places of worship hospitals schools In short it has become a rogue state with no respect to international norms
Recently Israel has appointed it s first ever ambassador to Somaliland, a move which enraged the international community This step is the flagrant violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Somalia Israel is strongly driven by its interest to increase its influence in which it violates the international rules and norms Somaliland declared its independence in 1991 after a civil war
However it was a self-declared independence which threatens the stability of Somalia and the entire Horn of Africa Somalia does not recognise it as an independent state and its position is backed by many international institutions such as the United Nations the European he support for independence A case example of Ankara unilaterally recognising Northern Cyprus can be taken Turkey is the only country which recognises Northern Cyprus The international community, including the European Union and United Nations consider Cyprus one country and do not recognise Northern Cyprus as a separate state They consider the unilateral recognition of Northern Cyprus by Turkey as a direct attack on the territorial integrity of Cyprus
The United Nations Security Council passed resolution 541 in 1983 saying that the creation of Northern Cyprus was not valid legally, and called on the other countries not to recognize Northern Cyprus This situation is considered dangerous which can lead to a worst outbreak of conflict on the island omaliland lies in a very close proximity to Bab al M andab Strait which is a key shipping route between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean The activities in the Strait are disrupted by the Houthis in Yemen Israel aims to maintain its influence in the region to monitor the activities in Yemen Some argue
there is the fear of escalation; and thirdly a desire to avoid situationalizing the war as a NATO-led operation
Rotting libraries
ual
as those in Iran, would also erode its long-term influence This economic manoeuvre becomes even more important when considered in the context of recent geopolitical tensions With the USA trying to enlist international support for a more aggressive approach to Iran, it seems to be meeting significant opposition from both its traditional allies and the world powers However contrary to expectations some of the countries have refused to take part in military or naval action in the region Germany has clearly stated that this is not a NATO war, thereby refusing to become involved France has also been unwilling to use naval capabilities or increase operations Another country that has not been willing to help in the situation is the United Kingdom which has made it clear that the situation is not a NATO mission Equally Spain and Italy have refused to participate in any maritime operation, citing the risk of escalation and favouring diplomatic solutions In other areas, such as the rest of the world, the reaction is also informative China has opposed US calls to cooperate with a strong insistence and has not shown interest in aiding military actions against Iran Japan and South Korea have not sent troops a sign of regional sensitivities and the danger of a wider conflict Similar motivations are mentioned in these countries Firstly, it is not their war; secondly,
This depicts a changing world order in which US influence is no longer as dominant as it once was The unwillingness of allies to fight reflects a broader trend toward strategic independence and multipolarity In this context Iran s yuan policy remains more powerful It is not a simple economic adjustment; it is a geopolitical message, in harmony with an increasing number of countries seeking alternative ways to avoid reliance on the dollar More importantly such efforts are subject to the scale and sustainability of success Although Iran is a sole state and cannot break the petrodollar system its behaviour adds to a compounded threat Other approved or strategically independent states have already experimented with similar mechanisms, slowly boosting the share of non-dollar trade settlement especially in Asia
To sum up Iran s transition to yuan-based trade is a strategic precedent that goes beyond short-term economic gains It belongs to an overall restructuring of world financial balances, one that aligns with a decline in consensus on US-driven military action The more lasting battle could be fought over currencies contracts and trade routes though missiles are taking up the headlines the rules of the global order are being rewritten
The writers can be reached at kshaharyar999@gmail com
Talent in exile
When school runs long
MuhaMMad SheharYar Khan
The Iran War paradox
Alimited direct losses, appears to be achieving long-standing strategic objectives The USA, on the other hand, is bearing the overwhelming burden militarily economically and diplomatically while Iran though heavily damaged occupies a complex middle ground as both victim and resilient actor Iran has undoubtedly suffered immense losses Its military infrastructure has been degraded, key leadership figures targeted, and economic systems disrupted Strategic assets ranging from oil facilities to logistical networks have been hit repeatedly Civilian hardship is mounting and the country s economic backbone is under unprecedented strain In terms of physical destruction, human casualties, and systemic disruption, Iran stands as one of the primary victims of the conflict Yet paradoxically Iran has also demonstrated a degree of endurance that complicates the narrative of defeat Its ability to disrupt shipping lanes, influence regional proxies, and impose costs on its adversaries has elevated its image as a power capable of asymmetric resistance While materially weakened Iran has not collapsed nor has it surrendered strategic leverage In contrast the USA finds itself in an in-
creasingly precarious position The financial cost alone is staggering, with estimates suggesting expenditures approaching $1 billion per day when accounting for military deployments logistics and operational support Thousands of US personnel have been deployed across vast distances, stretching supply lines and complicating sustainment efforts Casualties both fatalities and injuries are mounting further intensifying domestic scrutiny
More critically the USA is experiencing a profound erosion of its global image Long regarded as a stabilizing force and architect of a rules-based international order, Washington now faces accusations of unilateralism and overreach The perception that it is enforcing its will through military dominance rather than diplomacy is damaging its credibility particularly among allies and neutral states This reputational decline is most visible in the Middle East itself US bases across the region have come under sustained pressure, with several reportedly damaged or rendered less operational Gulf states once reliable partners are increasingly questioning the value of hosting US military infrastructure Rather than ensuring security these bases have become potential targets, exposing host nations to heightened risks The economic repercussions are equally severe The disruption of the Strait of Hormuz through which approximately 20 percent of global oil supply flows has triggered a sharp spike in energy prices with increases of up to 40 percent in some markets Oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel have strained global economies, particularly those heavily dependent on imports Supply chains have been disrupted inflationary pressures intensified and growth trajectories derailed For many countries the consequences are existential Energy shortages are forcing governments to ration fuel, shut down industries, and curtail public services Universities are closing, businesses are scaling back opera-
e f i l i n g s t a t u e s o f J e s u s Israel
tions and entire sectors are slowing to a crawl The global economy already fragile is now facing a contraction driven by the very lifeblood of modern industry: energy The Gulf states themselves are among the hardest hit Nations such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates Qatar Kuwait and Bahrain are grappling with a multifaceted crisis Oil production facilities and refineries have been damaged or shut down
damage relative to the scale of destruction elsewhere More importantly Israel is advancing its strategic objectives with striking effectiveness
For years, Israel has sought to weaken regional adversaries, particularly Iran and its network of allies This conflict has provided the conditions to do precisely that Iranian capabilities are being systematically degraded Regional actors are destabilized The geopolitical focus has shifted away from Israel s own actions,
and investor confidence has weakened These economies, built on connectivity and stability are now facing unprecedented disruption And yet amid this widespread devastation Israel appears remarkably insulated Its casualty figures remain comparatively low and its infrastructure has sustained minimal
As the 31st day approaches, the answer to the central question becomes increasingly clear This is not a balanced conflict with shared gains and losses It is a war in which one actor is quietly consolidating advantag e while others bear the visible costs Recognizing that reality is the first step toward changing it
Perhaps most significantly Israel has succeeded in shifting the burden of the conflict onto the USA Washington is now the face of the war, absorbing the financial costs, diplomatic backlash, and strategic risks Israel, while deeply involved, operates with a degree of insulation that allows it to reap benefits without bearing proportional costs
When the hierarchy of impact is assessed a stark picture emerges Iran in terms of physical destruction and economic damage, ranks among the most affected The USA follows closely, bearing immense financial costs and suffering a decline in global standing The Gulf states once pillars of regional stability are experiencing severe economic and security disruptions The broader international community is grappling with energy shortages and economic contraction At the very bottom of this hierarchy
The Iran war shock for developing nations
TThe same could hardly be said about conduct against the artefacts or symbols sacred to the followers of Islam, though the Israeli PM was careful not to be so explicit “While Christians are being slaughtered in Syria and Lebanon by Muslims the Christian population in Israel thrives unlike elsewhere in the Middle East Israel
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also blustered on the social media platforms to express stern disapproval The damaging of a Christian religious symbol by an IDF soldier in southern Lebanon is grave and disgraceful ” He commended the IDF on its statement condemning the incident and seeking to take “the necessary strict measures against the alleged perpetrator This shameful action is completely contrary to our values Israel is a country that respects the different religions and their sacred symbols, and upholds tolerance and respect among faiths ” Such views also received the firm approbation of one of Washington s most ardent Christian Zionists US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee
The same figure has been an outed enthusiast of the Greater Israel idea, one that does not necessarily bode well for the spirit of tolerance For the former Governor of Arkansas it was entirely appropriate that a strong stand be taken in condemning this outrageous act by an IDF soldier Such conduct did not properly represent the IDF, Israel, or the Israeli [government]”
On April 22 the IDF revealed that an inquiry had “determined [how unusually swift that was] that the soldier s conduct completely deviated from IDF orders and values , expressing deep regret over the incident It also announced that the statue had been replaced “in full coordination with the local community” Both the soldier responsible for smashing the statue of Jesus and his colluding photographer were dismissed from combat duty and sentenced to 30 days in military prison by order of Brig Gen Sagiv Dahan of the 162nd Division Six other soldiers present at the scene have been summoned for clarification discussions that will be held later after which further command-level measures will be determined Given the biblical destruction meted out by the IDF on sites in Gaza and, more recently, Lebanon, the jailing of two offenders for cultural vandalism was meretricious an act of kitschy public relations and counterfeit moral outrage These figures have every reason to be aggrieved by their selective treatment, given the latitude afforded their peers in carrying out tasks of latitudinous destruction notably after the Hamas attacks of October 7 2023 In January 2024 the BBC claimed that among 117 religious sites in Gaza reportedly damaged or destroyed between October 7, 2023 and December 31 2023 74 cases could be verified Mosques featured prominently and two Churches The ancient religious
sanctuary of St Porphyrius, bearing the name of the bishop whose tomb lies beneath the church, was bombed on October 19 that year, leaving 18 dead Israeli soldiers in gloating about their gory exploits have been indiscrete in posting images featuring their feats of annihilation On July 31 2024, soldiers from the Givati brigade uploaded a video to YouTube entitled, in Hebrew, “Israeli army forces detonate a mosque with 11 tons of explosives The videographer lets the audience know that the detonation took place a day prior in Khuza a east of Khan Younis to the southern part of the Gaza Strip One voice exults: “Long live the State of Israel!” In June 2025 the UN International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory including East Jerusalem and Israel published a report finding that Israeli security forces knew or should have known the locations and significance of prominent cultural sites in Gaza and should have planned their military operations with the aim of avoiding harm There had been a conspicuous failure of care in avoiding damage to cultural sites and their contents In a majority of cases, the Commission concluded that Israeli forces,
in using demolishing explosives and bulldozers, had committed war crimes pertaining to the unjustified destruction of “civilian objects” and property, including “intentionally directing attacks against buildings dedicated to religion and historic monuments Among the religious sites damaged, three also provided sanctuary for prayer and refuge for internally displaced individuals: the Church of Porphyrius the Ihya al-Sunna Mosque and the Saad al-Ghafari Mosque Together these attacks resulted in more than 200 fatalities including many women and children No jail sentences have been reported
MIDDLE EAST MONITOR
TRUMP SAYS KING CHARLES TO VISIT US DESPITE
INCIDENT
Bint-e-Pakistan Awards Aim to Encourage Women: DG Ministr y of Foreign Affairs
KARACHI S TA F F R E P O R T
Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Laison office Karachi Pakistan Muhammad Irfan
Soomro emphasized the vital role of women in the country s development, stating that Pakistani women are playing a remarkable role in every field of life He said the daughters of Pakistan represent the country’s bright future and are bringing pride to the nation globally through education skills and talent He added that the Bint-e-Pakistan Awards not only encourage women but also serve as a guiding light for the younger generation He expressed these views while addressing the Bint-e-Pakistan Awards Season 5 ceremony as the chief guest, organized by Karachi Women Entrepreneurs on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026 in Karachi On the occasion Sadia Gohar Khanum deputy DG of MOFA also present The event was held under the leadership of founding president Shama Rashid at Quaid-e-Azam House, Karachi The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by Hamd and the national anthem The event was hosted by Ayesha Nauman In her address Shama Rashid congratulated all members and award recipients who came from across the country appreciating their contributions She also highlighted the challenges faced by women and elaborated on the vision of Karachi Women Entrepreneurs During the event, a Women Summit was also organized and moderated by Iram Fawad The summit featured participation from Khursheed Haider Sultana Shamshal Amara Umair and Sadaf Altaf Lohiya On the occasion women from various walks of life were honored with awards for their outstanding contributions The award recipients included TV Actress Asma Saif, Dr Bilqees Sheikh, Mehwish Jahangir Sachwani Chef Nazia Qaiser Fatima Lohiya Chef Komal Ahmer Dr Nosheen Butt Iram Fawad Parveen Aslam Imdad Nisa Chaudhry Educationist Misbah Mujeeb Nadia Saleem Fauzia Khan Komal Nayab, Amara Umair, Sarwat Siddiqui, Fabiha Fatima, Faiza Siddiqui, Sabiqa Sanaullah, Syeda Zahra Asghar, senior tv actress Sabahat Bukhari, Khursheed Haider, Nuzhat Abid Jafri, Chef Ayesha Nauman Sadaf Altaf Lohiya and Fareeha Azmat
Sultana Shamshal was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her exceptional services
LAHORE S TA F F R E P
Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari on announced that, under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, historic and transformative steps have been initiated to revive Punjab’s film industry She stated that in line with the Chief Minister s vision revolutionary measures are being implemented to restore the long-declining film industry and put it back on its feet For the first time in Punjab’s history a substantial fund of Rs2 billion has been allocated for the revival of the sector Sharing details of key initiatives
USAMA QURESHI
Only two weeks ago I wrote about the quiet resilience of the Green Passport Today, that passport is no longer just a travel document, it has become a symbol of access, credibility and strategic relevance In a fortnight that felt like a decade Pakistan has helped shift the global lens from the brink of catastrophe to the possibility of de-escalation
To borrow a phrase from our cricket legends: the boys played well
The last two weeks have placed Pakistan at the center of attention for global powers The sight of an Iranian delegation arriving in Islamabad, followed by senior American representatives entering the capital for discussions marked a significant geopolitical moment
Bringing Washington and Tehran into a framework for dialogue after decades of hostility is the sort of diplomatic opening many seasoned observers considered unlikely While rivals watched uneasily Islamabad emerged as a serious venue for engagement, a city increasingly seen as a neutral meeting ground capable of hosting difficult conversa-
tions This was not ceremonial diplomacy It involved sustained negotiations led by Pakistan’s civilian leadership supported by the state’s broader strategic institutions
Many would credit Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as a key figure in helping create the conditions for dialogue, using strategic channels to persuade all parties that negotiation was preferable to escalation
The latest statement attributed to President Donald J Trump adds another chapter to Pakistan’s growing diplomatic relevance According to the post Pakistan s leadership urged restraint and requested a pause in military action contributing to an indefinite extension of the ceasefire while proposals are considered
At a moment when many expected a lethal resumption of war Pakistan instead helped create space for diplomacy That is no small achievement When others predicted escalation Pakistan worked for de-escalation Well done, Pakistan
The arrival of foreign journalists and delegations has also highlighted another national asset: soft power
Between Pakistan s renowned hospitality and its globally fluent meme culture international visitors are getting a fuller picture of a country often misunderstood abroad Influence today is not built through formal meetings alone, it is also shaped through narrative, culture and confidence As speculation continues about future high-level visits to Islamabad the contrast remains clear: The
ISLAMABAD
s ta f f r e p o r t
FE D E R A L Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Saturday recalled Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ’s address at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul delivered a year ago reiterating Pakistan s consistent stance on the Pahalgam false flag operation and underscoring the country s commitment to counter-terrorism, regional stability, and a transparent, impartial investigation into the episode Speaking to the media Tarar highlighted key aspects of the national position as outlined in the prime minister s historic address
at PMA Kakul and Pakistan’s response to the Pahalgam false flag operation The minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif while addressing cadets at PMA Kakul on April 26 2025 had categorically articulated Pakistan s position on the Pahalgam incident, rejecting what he described as baseless allegations and calling for an end to the blame game often associated with such incidents He recalled that the National Security Committee (NSC) in its meeting held on April 24 last year had issued a comprehensive response to the allegations followed by the prime minister s visit to Kakul where he delivered what Tarar termed a historic address on the Pahalgam false flag operation Tarar said the prime minister had de-
ISLAMABAD
s ta f f r e p o r t
scribed the Pahalgam incident as a “tragedy” and expressed sympathy with the victims while conveying Pakistan s concern and sorrow at the international level The prime minister made it clear that the recurring pattern of baseless accusations under the cover of such incidents must stop, he added Drawing a contrast between Pakistan and India’s approaches, the minister said Pakistan had consistently condemned terrorism and remained fully engaged in combating the menace whereas India he claimed had failed to adopt a clear and credible position in this regard He said the distinction between a country fighting terrorism and one promoting it had become increasingly evident before the international community
Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war against terror Tarar said the country had suffered economic losses amounting to around $600 billion while more than 90 000 lives had been lost including personnel of the armed forces, police, law enforcement agencies and civilians Pakistan has remained a frontline state against terrorism and continues to deploy all its energies to eliminate this menace ” he said Referring to militant outfits the minister said elements such as Fitna al-Hindustan (BLA) and Fitna al-Khawarij (TTP) had linkages tracing back to India and what he termed Indian-sponsored terrorism He said when allegations were levelled against Pakistan after the Pahalgam incident the prime minister
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik on Saturday underscored that Pakistan remained bound by its agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warning that any failure to honour the commitments could have serious consequences for the country s economic stability, while stressing that lasting control over petroleum prices depended on resolving global conflicts Speaking exclusively to a local news channel the minister said Pakistan s fuel supply remained secure and stable unlike India where, he claimed, citizens had recently faced
in detail with
on the difficulties faced by displaced residents and the need for
Those who attended the jirga included Bara Siyasi Ittehad President Hashim Khan Afridi, General Secretary Malik Attaullah Afridi, Awami National Party leaders Shireen Afridi and Sadique Chiragh Fata Qaumi Jirga Chairman Malik Bismillah Afridi Jamaat-e-Islami leaders Shah Faisal Afridi and Khan Wali Afridi PPP Khyber President Sher Shah Afridi and PML-N
the
of the
the president of Bara Siyasi Ittehad said a final decision regarding a protest in Peshawar would be announced after a consultative meeting scheduled for next Saturday He also thanked participants for their active involvement in the jirga and emphasised the importance of preserving unity and cohesion The jirga brought together political figures and local elders from multiple parties and groups reflecting a joint demand for action on the
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Sunday announced the establishment of a “Punjab Film City” spanning 50 acres in Nawaz Sharif IT City Lahore describing it as Pakistan’s first fully integrated end-to-end media production hub
In a post on her X account, the chief minister said the project aims to revive Pakistan’s film industry through modern technology, advanced facilities and integrated production resources
She said state-of-the-art infrastructure for film television animation and digital media would be provided under one roof, making the project a comprehensive creative ecosystem According to the statement, facilities for visual effects (VFX) and postproduction will be developed locally within the Film City to reduce dependence on foreign services The project will also include modern studios sound stages and post-production laboratories, along with comprehensive shooting facilities, purpose-built sets and a central lake she added She further stated that convention halls will be constructed to host international events and award ceremonies while a media trade hub, as well as film
and music schools will also be part of the initiative The chief minister said the project would generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities while boosting growth in animation, gaming and digital media sectors
Describing it as a major step toward strengthening the creative economy she said the Film City would bring together talent technology and business on a single platform The project will be completed in phases, with further details to be announced later
CATED FOR FILM SECTOR RE-
L: In a related development
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said that, in line with the chief minister s vision, revolutionary measures” are being implemented to revive the long-declining film industry She said
that for the first time in Punjab’s history, a substantial fund of Rs2 billion has been allocated for the revival of the sector Sharing details of initiatives by the Information and Culture Department she said work had begun on a worldclass Lahore Film City being developed on international standards The project will include state-ofthe-art laboratories enabling filmmakers to complete editing and post-production locally and eliminate the need to travel abroad She said that following a rigorous screening process, 32 individuals have been selected for film production Each filmmaker will receive Rs30 million per film with Rs15 million to be released at the script submission stage and the remaining amount upon completion Selected filmmakers will be given one year to complete their projects To further encourage the industry, she said the government has also approved a 25% bonus on box office earnings for filmmakers Applications from new filmmakers will be invited in the upcoming fiscal year starting in June while five exceptionally talented young individuals will also receive special funding for film projects She added that to reduce operational costs and support cinema owners cinemas across Punjab will be converted to solar energy systems
