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ISRAEL POUNDS GAZA AS UN WARNS ORDER 'STARTING TO BREAK DOWN' Monday, 30 October, 2023 I 13 Rabi us Sani, 1445

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Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 120 I 8 Pages I Islamabad Edition

HEALTH MINISTRY SAYS ISRAELI g INTERNET CONNECTIVITY g UNRWA SAYS ‘THOUSANDS’ BOMBARDMENT KILLED MORE IN GAZA STRIP BEING BROKE INTO DISTRIBUTION THAN 8,000 PEOPLE, HALF OF RESTORED TWO DAYS CENTRES IN GAZA, GRABBING THEM CHILDREN AFTER IT WAS CUT OFF BASIC SURVIVAL ITEMS

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GAZA STRIP, PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES AGENCIES

SRAEL pounded Hamas-ruled Gaza on Sunday in an escalating air and ground campaign as the UN warned civil order was "starting to break down" in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu steeled the nation for a "long and difficult war" ahead as the Red Cross voiced shock at the "intolerable" human suffering inside Gaza.

Despite calls for a humanitarian ceasefire and outrage across the Muslim world, Israel has intensified the war triggered by Hamas's unprecedented attack more than three weeks ago.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza says the unrelenting retaliatory Israeli bombardment has killed more than 8,000 people, mainly civilians and half of them children. Israel's army said "stage two" of the war started with ground incursions since late Friday.

On Sunday the military said it had struck another 450 Hamas targets within the past 24 hours, and that it was increasing its ground forces in Gaza.

In a late-night televised address on Saturday, Netanyahu announced a "second stage of the war whose goals are clear: Destroying the military and leadership capabilities of Hamas, and bringing the hostages back home".

He vowed to "eradicate" Hamas "for the sake of our existence".

Panic and fear have surged inside Gaza, where more than half of its 2.4 million residents are displaced, according to the UN, and thousands of buildings have been destroyed.

UN chief Antonio Guterres said the

situation was "growing more desperate by the hour" as casualties increase and essential supplies of food, water, medicine and shelter dwindle. He reiterated appeals for a ceasefire to end the "nightmare".

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, on Sunday said "thousands of people" broke into several of its warehouses and distribution centres in Gaza, grabbing basic survival items like wheat flour and hygiene supplies.

"This is a worrying sign that civil order is starting to break down," it said.

Inside Gaza, where petrol and diesel have virtually run out, donkey cart driver Raafat Najjar told AFP "there are no cars, we transport (people) on carts as there's no fuel."

Communications went down for days after Israel cut internet lines, although connectivity was gradually returning on Sunday.

Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, voiced shock at the "intolerable level of human suffering" in Gaza and urged all sides to de-escalate.

"This is a catastrophic failing that the world must not tolerate," she said.

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has said Israel was attacking "above the ground and below", alluding to Hamas's sprawling tunnel network.

Death toll in Gaza crosses 8,000, half of them children The Gaza health ministry has said that more than 8,000 had been killed in the Palestinian territory since the start of the current conflict with Israel on October 7.

“The death toll linked to the Israeli aggression is past 8,000, half of whom are children,” the ministry told.

Internet connectivity in the Gaza Strip is being restored, the global net-

Lahore faces dangerously high levels of smog as AQI reaches 483

LAHORE STAFF REPORT

The air pollution in Lahore has increased to an alarming level as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the city reached 483, the worst in the world in terms of pollution.

A blanket of smog which had been hovering over Lahore since the last few days thickened on Sunday, causing thousands to complaints about breathing problems, eye irritation and reduced visibility on roads.

The Met Office here has released a weather warning describing smog, comprising various toxic oxides including nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and other aerosols– as a result of cold-high-pressure in the upper atmosphere.

According to the Meteorological Department, in provincial metropolis on Sunday, the highest AQI was recorded at 594 AQI on Mall Road. Also, the Cantt area to 537 AQI, while Gulbarg recorded an AQI of 501. On early Sunday morning, smog covered various industrial and polluted areas and the rush at hospitals increased due to related diseases.

The most affected areas included Manawan, Ravi Road, Salamatpura, Daroghawala, Nishtar Town, Badami Bagh, Shahdara and Thokar Niaz Baig, etc.

Urban areas on weekend morning were worst hit by smog, said Nasim-urRehman Shah, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) director. The situation is particularly bad at Yateem Khana Chowk, Azadi Chowk, and all busy arteries in the city.

The World Health Organisation(WHO) has set the benchmark for suspended particulate matter at less than 150 micrograms per cubic metre In these areas, it has exceeded 370.

Residents of the affected areas have complained that there had been no improvement in the situation as the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) and other agencies were not paying heed to control smog in the city. The worst effects of smog are seen in morning hours.

According to environment experts, construction work across the city, burning of tires and tubes in factories and the failure of the traffic police to remove substandard vehicles from roads are the main reasons for smog in Lahore. Health experts have advised citizens to take precautions in going out of their homes.

The experts say schoolchildren and elderly people are the most vulnerable with a large number of them suffering from cough, eye diseases and breathing problems.

However, the district administration has intensified an anti-smog operation and raids. On instructions of Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, anti-smog operations are going on. In the last 24 hours, cases have been filed against eight people for setting fire to solid waste. In Lahore, 75 industrial units were checked during the last 24 hours, eight were sealed for violation of instructions.

work monitor Netblocks said Sunday, almost two days after it was cut off during heavy Israeli bombardment.

“Real-time network data show that internet connectivity is being restored in the #Gaza Strip,” the company wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

An employee in Gaza City said shortly after 4am (0200 GMT) that he could use the internet and had managed to contact people in southern Gaza by phone. Internet and phone access had been cut off across Gaza since Friday, as Israel bombarded the territory.

Qatar-mediated negotiations between Israel and Hamas aimed at de-escalating fighting in Gaza continued on Saturday, a source briefed on the negotiations said, even as Israel intensified its assault on the enclave. Talks have not broken down, but are taking place at a “much slower pace” than before the escalation from Friday evening, the source told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of negotiations.

‘Israel must protect civilians in Gaza, stop Jewish settler violence’ Jake Sullivan, White House national security adviser, on Sunday said Israel has a responsibility to protect the lives of innocent people in Gaza, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday amid a growing outcry over Palestinian civilian deaths.

With the death toll in the Gaza Strip in the thousands and climbing, US President Joe Biden's administration has been under increasing pressure to make clear that its steadfast support of Israel does not translate into a blanket endorsement of all that its ally is doing in the impoverished enclave in retaliation for the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas.

Peace deal reached to end weeklong bloody clashes in Kurram DERA ISMAIL KHAN/ HANGU MONITORING REPORT

The tribal elders from central and lower Kurram agreed to a peace deal on Sunday to end the six-day bloody clashes, which took 50 lives, and led to a blackout of electricity and internet and kept traffic off the roads in 70% area of the tribal district. The agreement was signed by the elders of two main sects after their talks in Alizai Qila under the supervision of the Thal Scouts and the Kurram district administration. Both sides agreed to end the sectarian tension between the two warring tribes.

The signatory to the agreement were Aqeel Hussain, Shujaatullah, Anwar Hussain, from the one side and Famanullah, Nasir Bangash and Syed Zulfiqar Shah from the other side. The agreement was made in the context of attacks on vehicles in Charkhel.

According to the agreement, both sides will make every effort to maintain peace in the area and the local elders will be responsible for peace in their respective areas; and if any outsider tries to sabotage the peace, the tribal elders will hand him over to the civil administration.

Under the other conditions agreed in the peace deal, display of weapons will be strictly prohibited; all bunkers will be emptied and no new bunkers will be built and people from all the sects will be responsible for peace in their respective areas.

Similarly, the agreement said that the people residing along Defence-Tall-Parachinar road will be responsible for peace on the road and highways in their areas. Both sides agreed that they would not clash and thwart any designs against the country. The agreement was reached between the two sides after six days of bloody clashes in the Kurram tribal district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).

For the past week, the district remained paralysed because of the clashes, which also continued on early Sunday.

The locals complained that electricity remained cut off, internet service suspended and all transportation routes closed in the Kurram district, besides a shortage of medicines and even food, loomed over several areas.

“There is total blackout in the entire Kurram district. This is very sad,” a Kurram resident said. “Why are the government institutions remaining silent spectators. A bloody war is going on for the six days,” he said, requesting anonymity. The trouble in the district started last week over a territorial dispute in a village. Later a scandalous video of an arrested accused added fuel to fire.

To make the matter worse, some people used ‘religious card’ to foment sentiments by exploiting people’s beliefs.

“The district is prone to violence due to the use of religious card by some segments and due to this the deployment of security forces were demanded days ahead of this incident but the authorities were not serious as a result precious lives were lost,” said a local resident, while talking to The Express Tribune.

President, PM felicitate Turkiye on 100th Republic Day CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

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KAKAR REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO FURTHER CEMENT STRATEGIC TIES WITH BROTHERLY COUNTRY ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

President Dr Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Sunday felicitated Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on 100th Republic Day of Turkiye on the behalf of people and Government of Pakistan.

In a message, the President said the outstanding friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye is based on mutual understanding.

The President appreciated Turkiye to stand by Pakistan on Kashmir and the adoption of a bold stance on the brutalities happening in Gaza.

In a felicitation message to people of Turkiye on the occasion of the 100th Republic Day of the country, he said we have taken concrete steps to further solidify economic ties with Turkiye, including the signing of the Trade in Goods Agreement (TGA) and the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF).

The Caretaker Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s abiding commitment to further cement its multidimen-

sional strategic ties with Turkiye, especially in the economic domain.

The Prime Minister said robust economic partnership and strengthened connectivity will serve as important pillars to steer our bilateral relationship in years ahead.

Anwaarul Haq Kakar highlighted that Pakistan and Turkiye enjoy fraternal relations rooted in abiding ties of religion, culture and history.

He said institutional mechanisms including the High-Level

Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) and the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF) have provided a leadership-driven, people-centric and future-oriented focus to steer Pak-Turkiye bilateral partnership in areas such as defence, economy, health, education, agriculture, tourism and culture.

He praised the impressive strides made by Turkiye during the last one hundred years, especially under the dynamic leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

FBR decides to conduct analysis of imports under Red Channel ‘FOUL PLAY CONCERNS’ ISLAMABAD

SHAHZAD PARACHA

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has decided to conduct analysis of imports under Red Channel during the last six months in Customs appraisement East Lahore.

Sources said that the Chief Collector (Appraisement-South) Karachi in Risk Management Committee (RMS) meeting has expressed concern over high percentage of import clearance under Red Channel in collectorate of Customs Appraisement (East) Lahore as well as excessive marking of exports GDs to Red channel by collectorate of Customs appraisement Peshawar.

Subsequently, Director General Risk Management Customs directed the directorate of RMS to carry out analysis of im-

ports under red channel in the Collectorate of Customs appraisement East Lahore during the last six months besides the volume of additional revenue realized.

The DG also directed the directorate of RMS to write to the Collectorate of Customs Appraisement Peshawar soliciting justification for excessive marking of exports GDs to Red Channel and Findings if any, in terms of increase in number of contraventions/ seizures as a result of such administrative measures.

FBR has empowered Customs collectorates to change parameters ( add or delete PCT, Person name) under RMS in a constantly evolving situation.

Sources said that collectors have powers to mark GDs to red channel for examination of risky items however normally the traders through high ups of customs or government

officials put pressure when it marks excessive GDs to red channel.

On the other hand, some unscrupulous importers als influence to delete risky items through the Directorate of Risk Management, sources added.

Currently, 70 percent clearances are happening in the green channel in Karachi whereas this ratio is very low in other provinces.

Sources said that Customs high ups are reluctant to post officers in the directorate of post clearance audit as they fear that audit can highlight the wrongdoings under green channel.

Recently, the World Bank in its report also mentioned that the violations detected against GDs which were cleared under Red and Yellow channels, were 0.3% in FY21, to 0.4% in FY22, and 0.3% in FY23. whereas, the post clearance audit de-

tected 16% violations in FY21 and FY22, and 14% in FY23.

Customs officials informed the WB that the department has hired a firm for the con-

solidation of frameworks for Central Risk Management System (CRMS) and Post Clearance Audit (PCA) through comprehensive BPM/BPR of core business processes.

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LOK MELA 2023: A TRUE DEPICTION OF COUNTRY’S RICH CULTURAL DIVERSITY

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Monday, 30 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

NEWS

ISLAMABAD

stAff RepoRt

HE biggest folk festival, “Lok Mela 2023,” being organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage, Lok Virsa, from November 4–12, will serve as a cultural treat for the people, featuring a variety of activities including provincial pavilions, shopping and food stalls, and musical programs.

The festival, under the theme `Peace and Harmony through Cultural Diversity’, offers a great opportunity to witness the richness of cultural diversity in all regions of Pakistan.

This unique event has now become a symbol of the federation’s unity by promoting folk music, traditional dances, arts and crafts, and traditional skills of the people of Pakistan.

With an objective to foster provincial harmony and national integration, the Lok Mela will highlight the contribution of people from diverse communities towards enriching the country’s cultural identity.

A large number of master artisans, folk artists, musicians, and folk dancers from all over Pakistan, including far-flung areas, are

Four ‘dacoits’ killed in Karachi, two in Sheikhupura encounters

expected to participate in the festival, showcasing their creativity and innovation.

The daily attractions of the festival include provincial pavilions portraying various cultural themes, traditional food stalls, folk music and dances, shopping stalls, kids’ corners, and concerts in the open-air theatre among several other programmes that will take place at each provincial pavilion.

The art and craft bazaar, featuring a rich variety of unique handicrafts, souvenirs, antiques, and decorative art, will be an exciting feature of the Mela.

Arieb Azhar, who is a famous Sufi and folk artist, said, “My favourite Mela is going to start in the capital, where the cultural heritage, food, art and craft, and music with representation of all the provinces will be showcased”.

For him, “this will be an `Awami Mela’ in a true spirit, and those who have not visited this Mela have not actually experienced the beauty of this city”.

At Lok Virsa’s annual cultural festival, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa pavilion, featuring a traditional tea stall, will captivate the attention of visitors through its aromatic tea

from the direct supply of LESCO. The transformer and meter were removed from the spot and a registration case was filed against the accused.

A fine of Rs8 lakh was also imposed on the owner of the flour mill. In Anarkali area, theft of electricity was caught in a cloth shop where the accused were stealing electricity by tampering with the meter. Two ACs were being run with the stolen electricity. The accused were charged 9,400 units as detection bill.

In Parana Kahna area, action was also taken against those stealing electricity.

Four meters of low speed and a tamper were found in the area. Four people were caught stealing electricity by installing a swivel. Legal action is ongoing against all the accused.

GEPCO CRACKDOWN CONTINUE TO COMBAT POWER THEFT A massive crackdown is being continued against electricity theft and defaulters across the region by the

LAHORE/GUJRANWALA stAff RepoRt

Karachi police claimed to have shot dead four ‘dacoits’ in an encounter in the city’s Saudabad while two robbers were killed and one escaped after an alleged encounter with the police near Qila Sattar Shah, police said Sunday. According to police, the ‘encounter’ took place in Malir area of the metropolis in the limits of Saudabad police station. During the alleged encounter, a policeman named Hanif and three other people also sustained injuries. Police recovered weapons, mobile phones and two motorcycles from the possession of the dead dacoits, The bodies of the dacoits and injured have been shifted to hospital. Earlier on December 6, last year, two alleged bandits were killed in a police encounter in the New Karachi area. The encounter with five robbers riding on motorbikes occurred near Mangal Bazar. The criminals were looting the valuables in the area when the patrolling police party arrived at the scene. Seeing the police, the bandits opened fire and in a retaliatory fire two of them were shot dead on the spot, while one of them was arrested in injured condition. Qatarled negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue, source stated. In Sheikhupura, two robbers were killed and one escaped after an alleged encounter with the police near Qila Sattar Shah, police said Sunday. According to the police, three robbers had setup a picket and were snatching cash and valuables from passersby on a road and harassing women.

After being informed, police reached the spot and cordoned off the area to apprehend the outlaws. The robbers started firing when they saw the police team of Factory Area Police Station. Police retaliated effectively. The encounter continued for sometimes as a result of which two robbers were killed and their accomplice managed to escape. Weapons and looted goods were recovered from the dead robbers. Police teams were raiding to arrest the robber who fled the scene.

Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has arrested 10,540 electricity thieves during a 51-day campaign and registered cases against more than 20,000.

The value of the stolen electricity is Rs1.8 billion.

LESCO spokesman said that 241 connections were found involved in electricity theft during the last 24 hours, out of which cases were registered against 142. The value of the units charged during 24 hours is Rs1.47 million.

The highest amount of stolen electricity was detected in Raiwand area where it was Rs296,000. In Patuki area, the amount was Rs286,840 and in Shahdara area, it was Rs275,000. In Raiwind sub-division, LESCO authorities conducted an operation against electricity thieves and caught the owner of a flour mill stealing electricity

MA NiAzi In the midst of the World Cup, the world of cricket lost a great of the game in Bishan Singh Bedi, the left-arm spinner in the famed Indian spin quartet of the 1960s and 1970s. Bedi was one of the few bowlers who became captain of the team, and when Pakistan and India resumed cricketing ties back in 1978-9, he was the Indian captain.

He never got on the same page with anyone, and nor did Kapil Dev, who made his debut that series, and captained India to its first World Cup victory in 1983.

Kapil was an all-rounder, like Imran.

Perhaps because he didn’t build a dispensary, let alone a cancer hospital, he wasn’t taken up. But perhaps the worst thing about him is that he married only once, during his playing days, and his wife Romi is still married to him. He has a daughter, like Imran is alleged to, but she was born firmly in wedlock, and is

caretaker government to combat the alarming surge in power theft and to take stern actions against the culprits involved.

A GEPCO spokesperson talking to the PTV news channel said that GEPCO’s surveillance teams had successfully apprehended 30 more individuals involved in electricity theft through various operations. He said that on the directives of the Federal Minister for Energy, the GEPCO had launched a crackdown against electricity thieves and their facilitators in all circles.

In addition to the arrests, heavy fines

PR minister, CM Domki inaugurate Sibi-Harnai train service restored after 18 years QUETTA

inviting festival-goers to savour the flavors of tradition. Their sajji is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to a heritage that transcends borders, uniting people in the joy of food.

Hafeez and Kamran Lehri’s presence at Lok Mela is a culinary celebration not to be missed, a testament to the enduring power of cultural cuisine.

This year, artists from all across Pakistan will gather at the Lok Virsa Mela to exhibit and sell a wide range of handcrafted products as they celebrate Pakistan’s folk heritage. Craftspeople (artisans) will also demonstrate their techniques in every pavilion at Lok Mela Mela.

So this goes to all who think they have the talent to sing on the big stage. This year, Lok Mela 2023 will also bring an opportunity for talented singers to showcase their voices at the Open Mic programme that will be held daily at the Anarkali Facade during the festival.

Lok Mela is not only featuring artists and artisans from all provinces of Pakistan, but this year, the long-lost elements of its mela, the Folk Theatre and Putli Tamasha, will be revived.

Pakistan Railways has restored the Sibi-Harnai railway service for traffic after 18 years, according to PR information on Sunday.

Caretaker Chief Minister of Balochistan Ali Mardan Domki and Federal Minister of Railways inaugurated the railway service.

Caretaker CM addressing the ceremony said that the railway track was closed in February 2006.

“Restoration of the railway service will create economic prospects and job opportunities in the region,” he said.

“The Bolan Mail service will be restored on Dec 25, while Nawab Akbar Bugti Express will run in the next phase,” chief minister said.

Moreover, goods trains will also run on the Sibi-Harnai railway track, he added.

“The railway’s track was made dysfunctional after a series of bomb blasts which damaged 22 steel bridges in the highly rugged and inaccessible area,” an official in the Ministry of Railways earlier told the official news agency.

“The restoration of the railway

proudly acknowledged.

The late Bishen Bedi was once married to an Australian whom he divorced, but he had his children with the Indian wife he married, Anju. So perhaps he wasn’t really good material to be on the same page. He did have a terrific sense of humour though. I met him only once, but he told two quick ones which I have not forgotten decades later. One was about a bicycle collision, which had one party ask the other, “Lalaji, Khudkushian?” (Lalaji, suicide?) and the other was a question by a potential customer to a fruit vendor in Amritsar: “Eh haaza ki p’a?” (What price this cholera?)

But where Imran would be saddened by the death of a contemporary (Imran might not like it, but Bedi was 77, forcing Imran to admit being a septuagenarian), he can’t be entirely unhappy by the way the World Cup is going. I mean, Pakistan lost to Afghanistan, but Shaheen Afridi only took one wicket, while going for 56 runs, a performance that should keep him off the same page. An added bonus was

have also been levied on those found guilty of stealing electricity, he added.

The spokesperson further stated that formal petitions have been lodged with local police stations to initiate legal proceedings against these electricity thieves. Electricity distribution companies across the country are running strict operations to combat electricity theft, including significant personnel changes, he mentioned.

Replying to a question, he also expressed confidence in the success of this government-led campaign, with the full dedication of officers and staff.

PIA restores Skardu flights to rescue stranded tourists SKARDU

stAff RepoRt

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beteen the twin historical cities of Sibi and Harnai will have a positive impact on the economy and agriculture of the entire region,” the official added. With the rehabilitation of the railway track, he said not only the students of district Harnai and Ziarat will also get opportunities to acquire higher education but also boost the economic and commercial activities in the region.

In March 2016, a contract for rehabilitation and restoration of the Sibi-Harnai railway track along with the up-gradation of railway stations

Cricket and quartics City Notes

to experience pottery making, which will be a delightful blend of fun and learning, making it perfect for children.

This hands-on activity allows them to explore their creativity while gaining insight into traditional crafts, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural heritage.

Stone carving, which is a timeless art form, will be showcased at the festival. At Lok Virsa, the stone carving exhibit becomes a living testament to the art’s significance.

Skilled artisans tirelessly work, their hands breathing life into rugged blocks of stone.

Each tap of the chisel unveils hidden beauty, and every curve and groove capture the essence of Pakistan’s diverse culture.

This cultural exchange and preservation of heritage are at the heart of Lok Mela, fostering appreciation for the artistry and heritage of stone carving.

In this Lok Mela, the Lehri brothers will once again set up their Sajji stall. The tantalizing aroma of Lehri Sajji wafts through the air as the annual Lok Virsa Mela approaches, and all eyes turn to the talented Lehri brothers, Hafeez and Kamran.

At Lok Mela, the Lehri brothers offer a slice of Balochistan’s rich culture on a plate,

Lesco recovers Rs1.8b from electricity pilferers during 51 days

KARACHI/ SHEIKHUPURA stAff RepoRt

of different flavours.

The variety of tea available at this pavilion offers a sensory journey, blending rich flavours that evoke the region’s distinctive culture.

The melodious chimta and thundering dhol beats will set the stage alive during the festival. These traditional instruments promise a rhythmic journey into cultural heritage, elevating the festival’s spirit. The festival will also present a blend of music, from traditional to fusion, featuring different musical instruments, especially “suroz.”.

Suroz is a traditional Balochi musical instrument from Balochistan, Pakistan, and is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, featuring intricate carvings that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. The Multani Kashi work, a form of blue pottery, is ready to take centre stage at Islamabad’s highly anticipated cultural festival. This artistry, blending Persian and indigenous influences, creates mesmerizing ceramics with vivid hues and intricate patterns.

The festival’s cultural mosaic is incomplete without the allure of these exquisite creations, celebrating diversity.

The festival offers a unique opportunity

that Pakistan looks increasingly unlikely to make it to the semis, and thus there is no chance that Babar Azam will ever make it to the same page.

Of course, the people who were the most disappointed were the Afghanistan fans. Like everyone else, expected the Pakistan team to win, and were fully prepared to engage in the kind of boorish behaviour enshrined by them at last year’s World Cup. They had planned to boil Shaheen Shah alive, or to behead Babar and parade his head on a stake, or hang Pakistan’s topscorer from the nearest lamp-post. Instead, they were deprived of these delights by the Pakistani defeat, and found themselves ill-equipped to engage in the celebration they wanted, which would have involved firing in the air from semi-automatic weapons, as well as shooting down an overhead airliner with a Stinger missile.

The nuclear device stolen from Pakistan would have been kept back for actually winning the final.

Instead, Pakistan is reduced to making calculations about other teams’

was awarded to the NLC. During the initial survey of the track, it was found that 22 steel bridges were destroyed and required replacement for the restoration of the train operation.

Railway official said a total of nine railway stations along with tracks had been upgraded by NLC engineers including the reconstruction of Harnai Railway Station and a complete renovation of Sibi Railway Station, which could be regarded as the finest railway station in Balochistan.

results, involving the higher mathematics, in which you use integrals, natural logarithms, and quadratic equations, and come up with the answer that If the Bangladesh captain’s paternal grandfather married twice, then Pakistan would get through on run rate. Now if you have seen Babar Azam struggle with differentiation, or Rizwan dealing with cubic and quartic equations, you would realize that cricket and the higher maths don’t mix.

Autumn doesn’t seem to have set in yet, leading one to suspect that it will be a mild winter. That seems to be the only hope we have of escaping the IMF’s plans for us to have a smelly winter. The IMF wants gas tariffs raised, which would mean people economizing on bathing, with the result that one will need a face mask to walk the streets, and not from fear of Covid-19 either.

I see that there has been a shooting in Maine, with 18 people killed, the shooter a petroleum specialist with the rank of sergeant in the US Army Reserve. Over here, he would be a Supply Corpa havildar. A petroleum specialist, and thus of no interest to Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who received a condolence delegation from the PTI, to condole the death of his mother-inlaw, and which presumably did not call him ‘Maulana Diesel.’

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced multiple flights to Skardu, Gilgit to rescue tourists who were stranded in northern areas amid blockade of roads and cancellation of flights. PIA, the national flag carrier, has announced plans to operate six flights to rescue stranded tourists. The flights will operate from Islamabad for Gilgit and Skardu. The tourists were stranded after Pakistan International Airlines cancelled multiple flights to and from Gilgit and Skardu due to fuel crisis and land routes restricted by extreme weather. Taking notice, Minister of State Wasi Shah took action and approached concerned officials to arrange flights for those who were stranded in Skardu and Gilgit. Shah contacted the senior officials of PIA and asked for an immediate solution to the problem, as the tourism industry is badly affected amid the haphazard situation. The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved a Rs. 8 billion bridge financing package for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The financing will be provided through the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) resources to meet PIA’s urgent overdue payment obligations. The ECC allowed the Aviation Division to proceed with the bilateral arrangement between the CAA and PIA. The Caretaker Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue, and Economic Affairs, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar presided over the meeting, according to news statement issued by the finance ministry.

IHC seeks report on transfer of officers on ECP recommendations ISLAMABAD

stAff RepoRt

The Islamabad High Court has sought a report

by Tuesday on the transfer of officers on the recommendations of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) during the caretaker government. The court has asked the Establishment Division and the ECP to submit a comprehensive report on the number of officers transferred on the ECP’s recommendations and the reasons behind keeping certain officers in their current positions. The order was issued by Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb during the last hearing of the case. The court also directed the ECP to implement its notification on transfers without any discrimination. The ECP had earlier issued orders for the transfer of the secretaries of various departments and the IG of Sindh. It had also recommended the transfer of the Chief Commissioner Islamabad and Deputy Commissioner Islamabad. The ECP has stated that changes have been made in the Islamabad police and administration.

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OVER ONE FOURTH FAISALABITES PRONE TO HEPATITIS Monday, 30 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

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NEWS

FAISALABAD

IftIkhaR ahmad

ROUNDWATER contamination, use of infectious surgical instruments and adulterated food is playing havoc with Faisalabad residents as over one-fourth of the city’s population was infected with different types of hepatitis.

An abode to nine million people, the Faisalabad district randomly has over two million people infected with this injurious disease especially ‘Hepatitis C’ posing serious challenges to Health authorities in treating the patients.

With nearly three dozen well-known hospitals in the city, a few have proper treatment facilities to cure hepatitis C and most of the remaining, lack proper equipment.

Only the Liver Center at Allied HospitalII being run on a public-private partnership, has the latest facilities but it is stated to be too costly for the poor patients who are the dominating demography of the district.

Most of the city’s population was dependent on underground water but the mushroom growth of mills and factories had polluted underground water in most areas in recent decades.

“The situation is critical as 28% of people are suffering from Hepatitis C alone and 4% from other types of hepatitis,” said Chairman of Liver Foundation Trust and former Principal of Punjab Medical College Prof Dr Zahid Yasin Hashmi.

He revealed that the Liver Foundation

conducted free screening of hepatitis in 270 villages around Faisalabad and the cumulative number (32%) was alarming.

“Most people ignore the gravity of this disease and bring patients to hospitals when the disease is at advanced stage. In the case of such patients, the recovery chances are very low.”

He urged to launch a vigorous awareness campaign to educate people and save them from this disease. “Faisalabad is a thickly populated city where its spread is alarming due to its epidemic nature.”

Zahid Hashmi informed that the Liver Foundation Trust was set up in 2003 on a public-private partnership basis and offers the best possible treatment. “Our Center is not restricted only to Faisalabad’s patients.

But, patients from KPK, Balochistan and even Afghanistan also visit it. We also treat poor patients free of cost or on nominal charges.”

He also mentioned launching a Point Of Care (POR) in 2012 wherein two fullyloaded ambulances with a capacity to facilitate 300 patients each, regularly visit remote rural areas for diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis patients.

Hashmi regretted the lukewarm response of the government to this challenge. “We had floated a proposal in 2007 for liver transplant in Faisalabad costing Rs two million at a time when such a facility was established in India for Rs four million.”

He said the Liver Foundation has now planned to establish the Faisalabad Institute of Liver Diseases at Satiana Road as he stressed setting up a full-fledged liver

institute to provide liver transplant facility to patients.

Although the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) is mandated to supply water, it can provide potable water to only 40 percent populace with 60 percent still using water from other sources.

There are also complaints of water conamination in these decades back laid down WASA managed pipelines as some of them were already damaged making way for sewage to mix with fresh water.

In this scenario, health experts believe that a holistic approach was needed on planning, administrative and curing fronts to rescue citizens from the cruel clutches of hepatitis.

“Contaminated water and food items were the main causes of hepatitis A and E while hepatitis B, C and D spread due to the use of infectious surgical equipment,” said another health expert Dr Muhammad Anas.

He mentioned to unsafe use of surgical and injecting instruments, transfusion of infected blood, infected dental material, body pricking, piercing, tattooing and unhygienic use of razors, scissors, toothbrushes and care kits as common reasons behind the spread of hepatitis.

“There are very startling facts about testing facilities for adulterated food items in our country. Many adulterated food items are freely available in our market,” he stated.

Pakistan Standards and Quality Control

Tribal youth hold walk, photo exhibition to express solidarity with Kashmiris PESHAWAR

Staff RepoRt

A walk and photo exhibition depicting the Indian force’s brutality in illegally occupied Kashmir was organized by District Sports Officer Kashif Farhan in collaboration with the district administration Khyber, wherein hundreds and thousands of athletes of different games, tribal youth, and people from different walks of life participated.

The photo exhibition highlighted the true pictures of India’s forces’ brutality against innocent Kashmiris, followed by a walk and car rally expressing solidarity with the people of illegally held Kashmir.

The participants of the walk and car rally chanted slogans against India’s forces for killing innocent women, children, and other people in occupied Kashmir. Along with athletes from other games, District Sports Officer Kashif Farhan led the walk and car rally.

Addressing the participants, Kashif Farhan said that the sacrifices of Kashmiris would not go in vain; Pakistan is incomplete without Kashmir. The entire nation is with the Kashmiris in

their right to self-determination and freedom struggle, he said. He said that the Kashmir issue should be resolved according to the resolutions of the United Nations.

He said that on October 27, Pakistanis successfully observed Black Day to protest against India’s illegal occupation and to remind the world community of its commitments regarding the implementation of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions that advocate the right to plebiscite for Kashmiris.

The participants of the walk tied black bands on their arms and carried the flags of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir. A one-minute silence was also observed by the athletes to express solidarity with Kashmiris, and the participants carried banners with anti-Indian slogans.

Pakistan does not accept Article 370, which provides special status to the occupied region, because they seek the independence of Kashmir, as it is not part of India, Kashif Farhan added.

International footballer Najeeb Shinwari lamented that the Narendra Modi government repealed the law and

Mobile registration centers of BISP to be operational

by November ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

changed Article 35. Najeeb Shinwari, along with other leading players from Khyber District, actively participated in the walk alongside other athletes. Najeeb Shinwari further emphasized that the observance of the photo exhibition, walk, and car rally was to condemn the Indian illegal occupation of the state and to reiterate their unwavering support for the Kashmiri people struggling for their right to self-determination.

He added that the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was an integral part of Pakistan, and the day was not far when Kashmiris would be able to break the shackles of subjugation and join Pakistan.

He also stressed that the ongoing barbarism of Indian forces against the Kashmiris cannot be concealed from the eyes of the international community, and soon the oppressed Kashmiris will attain their right to self-determination.

The Indian Army invaded the state of Jammu and Kashmir on this day in 1947 in an attempt to subjugate the Kashmiri people, Najeeb Shinwari said, adding that the tribals stood with the people of Kashmir and were ready to avenge the

Public urged to take precautionary measures against seasonal influenza ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The Mobile Registration Vehicle Centers to facilitate the registration process for the intending beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), belonging to the remote areas of the country, are likely to be operational by the month of November. The Mobile Registration Centers will enable the deserving women residing in the far-flung areas to access the registration facilities through mobile vehicles. According to the Secretary Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Amer Ali Ahmad, the process of induction of Mobile Vans, which started in August, has entered into its last stages. A total of 25 Mobile Vans is being included to serve as Mobile Registration Centers of the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) which will facilitate those who were unable to access the registration facility.

He informed that as many as 19 Mobile Registration Centers are being established in the remote areas of Balochistan, five in Sindh and one in Islamabad in this phase. “The Mobile Registration service is likely to be operational by November to facilitate the registration process of the beneficiaries residing in the far-off areas of the country”, the Secretary BISP said.

Indian forces killing innocent people.

Pakistani youth stand with the Kashmiris, and the time was not far when occupied Kashmir would be freed from Indian oppression. They noted that India usurped the identity of Kashmiris four years ago and imposed the world’s longest curfew in occupied Kashmir, which is a total violation of international law and against the United Nations resolutions passed in favour of the people of Kashmir.

The youth condemned the state terrorism in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of occupied Kashmir.

The participants in their address said that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had supported the Kashmiri people before and would continue to give moral, political, and diplomatic support to their struggle for freedom.

They said that the Indian army attacked Kashmir and started persecuting the Muslims there, and this process of oppression has not stopped to date. They said October 27 was the darkest day in the history of Kashmir.

Experts on Sunday advised various precautionary measures while citing immunity-boosting methods to help people stay healthy as the majority of patients are getting infected with flu-causing viruses, like influenza, RSV, adenovirus, and rhinovirus, ahead of the winter season.

Talking to a private news channel, A specialist for a chest infection, Dr Rashid Dawood, said that most parts of the country, especially Karachi hospitals, are witnessing a surge in cases of ‘the influenza virus’, adding that we advised people to take precautions and not panic given the rise in influenza cases.

The doctor also encouraged the public to get vaccinated and adhere to precautionary measures to reduce the spread of the virus, thereby safeguarding their own well-being and that of the broader community and averting potential complications arising from influenza infections. Every year, thousands of people are affected by seasonal fever or influenza, he said, adding that the virus infects and multiplies within the body’s cells and impacts the respiratory system. Though it is not fatal, it can sometimes lead to hospitalization, he feared. Typically,

the flu does not endure for more than two weeks, and the infection recedes at an average pace depending on the type of flu virus. In some rare cases, the flu virus can also adversely affect overall health by infecting the lungs, ears, sinuses, etc. “It is important to take extra care by following all the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection,” he added.

Dr suggested that people should primarily avoid visiting crowded places, which include markets, offices, and family gatherings, and, in unavoidable situations, should wear face masks, maintain hand hygiene, and practice respiratory etiquette. He said the public should remember how we dealt with COVID-19 times, adding that the same things should apply again and cover their mouth while sneezing and coughing. Replying to a question, he said that people with one or more of the following symptoms, like fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue, may be infected with influenza or another virus.

People with influenza-like symptoms should isolate and avoid close contact with other people, he said, adding that if this is not possible, the use of a face mask by people who are ill with influenza symptoms may help contain respiratory secretions when the person coughs or sneezes and lower the risk for infection among close contacts.

Israel pounds Gaza as UN warns order 'starting to break down' CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

In a round of television interviews, Sullivan said Washington was asking hard questions of Israel, including on issues surrounding humanitarian aid, distinguishing between terrorists and innocent civilians and on how Israel is thinking through its military operation.

"What we believe is that every hour, every day of this military operation, the IDF (Israel Defense Forces), the Israeli government should be taking every possible means available to them to distinguish between Hamas terrorists who are legitimate military targets and civilians who are not," Sullivan said on CNN. The US has been clear on that issue and Biden will reiterate the position in a call later on Sunday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Sullivan said.

Israeli fighter jets again dropped leaflets over Gaza City on Saturday, warning residents that the northern area was now a "battlefield" and they should

"evacuate immediately".

Hamas authorities reported Sunday that a "large number" of people were killed overnight in strikes on two refugee camps in northern Gaza.

Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari reiterated that Palestinian civilians should go south "to a safer area where they can receive water, food and medicine". After 84 aid trucks entered the territory in recent days, he vowed humanitarian efforts to Gaza would expand.

But Ibrahim Shandoughli a 53-yearold from Jabaliya in northern Gaza, told AFP he and his family went nowhere.

"Where do you want us to evacuate to? All the areas are dangerous."

Netanyahu in his address also acknowledged the intelligence failure that exposed Israel to the October 7 attack that stunned and infuriated the nation. "There was a terrible failure here, and it will be thoroughly examined," he said. While Israel has mourned its dead, sympathy has swelled for the families

whose loved ones were abducted by Hamas and are at heightened risk as the war intensifies in Gaza.

"Bring them home," shouted relatives at a rally on Saturday.

Hamas has released four of them but this week said "almost 50" had been killed by Israeli air strikes, a claim that was impossible to verify.

Netanyahu on Saturday assured hostage relatives that Israel would "exhaust every option to bring them home". "We demanded that no action be taken that endangers the fate of our family members, and any step considered should take into account the safety of our loved ones," said Meirav Leshem Gonen, the mother of hostage Romi Gonen.

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, said it was prepared to release the hostages if Israel freed the Palestinian prisoners it was holding.

Hamas's leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, said the group was ready for an "immediate" exchange.

Ifat Kalderon, whose cousin Ofer

Kalderon is believed held in Gaza along with other relatives, told AFP she supported the idea of a prisoner release in exchange for the hostages.

"Take them, we don't need them here," she said. "I want my family and all the hostages to come back home."

The ground operations have heightened fears that Israel's other enemies -- the Iran-allied "axis of resistance" forces in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen -- enter the conflict. Israel's ally the United States has warned Israel's enemies to stay out and reinforced its military presence in the region.

Skirmishes have intensified on the IsraeliLebanese border with Iran-backed Hamas ally Hezbollah, raising fears of a new front. Shelling in south Lebanon injured a UN peacekeeper on Saturday, the mission's spokesman said, hours after reporting a hit at its headquarters. Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi on Sunday warned on X, formerly Twitter, that Israel's "crimes have crossed the red lines, which may force everyone to take action".

Authority (PSQCA), an organization meant for prescribing quality standards has its office in Faisalabad but there is no lab for immediate testing of food quality.

Though the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) also conducts random operation across the province and confiscate substandard food items small outfits and vendors are kept away from their eyes.

It is also worth mentioning that 150 water filtration plants were installed in different parts of Faisalabad but their capacity was insufficient to meet the portable water demand of the populace.

District Health Authority (DHA) Spokesman Abdur Razzak said the prevalence of hepatitis C was higher in the rural population due to the usage of infected surgical and injecting material and unhygienic food.

“All types of hepatitis (A to E) are prevalent in Faisalabad, but the number of patients suffering from Hepatitis-C is much higher,” he said.

The Punjab government has established a dedicated Cardiology Institute and a well-equipped Children’s Hospital at Faisalabad but there is no separate facility for hepatitis patients except the Liver Center. Although the Allied Hospital-I transplants different human organs including the kidney it also lacks a specific Liver Transplant facility.

In this scenario, the provincial government needs to chalk out an urgent awareness and treatment plan to save the residents of this third-most populated district from a lethal disease of Hepatitis.

PML-Q calls for end to Israeli aggression against Palestinians LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

The Pakistan Muslim League-Q (PML-Q) Sunday organized a protest demonstration outside the Lahore Press Club to express a powerful display of solidarity with the Palestine people. Former Punjab Governor and the chief organizer of the party Chaudhry Sarwar led the protest. PML-Q Punjab General Secretary Chaudhry Shafay Hussain also joined the rally in voicing his concerns about the dire situation in Palestine. The demonstration, which saw a significant turnout of PMLQ workers, conveyed a resounding message of support for the oppressed Palestinian people, who have been enduring decades of conflict and hardship in the face of Israeli aggression.Carrying banners and placards bearing slogans in favor of Palestine, the protestors demanded an immediate end to Israeli oppression and called for the implementation of United Nations resolutions addressing the Palestinian issue. Speaking on the occasion, the PML-Q chief organizer Ch Sarwar underlined the importance of international solidarity by urging, “We all have to raise our voice for Palestine together.” He further urged the people to boycott Israeli products. Addressing the atrocities in Palestine, Sarwar emphasized, “The world needs to understand that children are being massacred, and over fifty thousand people have already lost their lives.” Drawing a powerful comparison to other nations, he questioned, “You ask the international community what would happen if another country did what Israel is doing wrong.” Sarwar, who has visited Palestine ten times, recounted his experiences, stating, “I have seen the cruelty of Israel there. People of Gaza are living in a prison; their water is cut off, their medicine is cut off.”

Tessore urges women to encourage daughters to pursue their career KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori has urged mothers to encourage their daughters to pursue their chosen fields even after their marriage. This he said while speaking at a women’s festival organized by PINKtober, an NGO working for awareness about breast cancer. “It is a reality that after marriage the girls are expected to only look after their homes as a housewife and leave behind their professional degrees and aspirations for the future”, he observed. Governor Sindh said that this trend is depriving girls to contribute towards national economy. “Their degrees and higher education are wasted as they are not allowed to work in their chosen fields after getting married”, he opined. He said that despite all odds and hurdles the women in Pakistan are performing brilliantly in every walk of life with distinction. “From politics to business, civil service to sports and social work to armed force, their contributions are not less than men”, he added. He said that NGOs play a vital role in the social sector and their contributions especially in health and education are immensely important for the provision of better facilities to the masses especially the poor and downtrodden, he remarked. The Governor said that lack of awareness about breast cancer was the root cause of deaths from this disease, which was higher as compared with other Asian countries, “These deaths can be prevented with timely diagnosis and mammography”, he added.

04 COMMENT

The Indian Ocean and Mahan Mahan never said or wrote the quote he is remembered for

Business model ignorance

T

Caretaker Prime Minister shows dangerous misunderstanding of government-press functioning

C

ARETAKER Prime Ministers Anwaryul Haq Kakar has been squarely condemned by both the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors and the All-Pakistan Newspaper Society for his dillydallying about the payment by the government of Rs 2 billion in dues, and his brash statement that the newspaper industry had an incorrect business model, and in which the newspapers expected to be subsidized. If anything, the subsidy is on the newspapers’ side, for the government gets a rate much lower than the private sector. The delays by the government in making payments are also a form of subsidy to the government.

Mr Kakar should put his money where his mouth is, and reorganize the system of government advertising. First, he should pay for advertising space already bought in the newspapers, and then stop all advertising. If he prefers, the government could pay the full cost of advertising. Mr Kakar has come only in a caretaker role, or else he would have known that the government’s purchase and procurement rules require the government to advertise at virtually every stage of the process. It is not only procurements, but contracts and recruitments which oblige the government to advertise. If the government can carry out its activities without advertising, it should try. Mr Kakar would find that even a caretaker government would not be able to function without advertising. Vanity ads, where a government boasts about its achievements, actually are only a small part of the total. Mr Kakar would also be well-advised to avoid mixing up print and electronic media, as he did at the presser where he attacked the newspaper industry’s business model. He might have quoted the example of The Guardian, but he should remember that the newspaper industry is facing a global crisis, caused by the spread of the Internet. It is because of that crisis that newspapers find themselves unable to carry the government any more, and wanting the money which the government owes, for advertising space it has already used.

Instead, the government has failed to solve the more basic issue of safety. A Freedom Network report, published just ahead of the international day against impunity against journalists on November 2, notes that the state has increased violence against them, including kidnapping, physical assaults and serious legal cases, including unproven charges of sedition, treason and electronic crimes. As a newspaper which is even now facing charges of criminal defamation, we can only endorse this.

muhAmmAd AzAm KhAn

HE Indian and the Pacific Oceans have been under extensive debate in scholarly circles around the world, especially in Asia Pacific.

The past few years have seen the construct “Indo-Pacific” become a buzz word in academia, at international seminars and conferences.

While the USA and its allies embrace the term “IndoPacific” in their respective doctrines and policy papers, China rejects it and deems it to be an attempt to stem Beijing’s economic rise. It is true that Atlantic and Pacific Oceans saw many wars in history but the Indian Ocean too had its share of conflicts and expeditionary operations by external powers. Wars here however usually began with interests in trading and commercial activities over raw material and local commodities.

India was once well known for its riches. This drew in the great powers of the time and impelled commercial activities in the Indian Ocean region.

Protection of merchandise at sea became indispensable. Navies and naval war fighting gradually became a norm. Arabs were great traders but they were replaced by Portuguese in the early 16th century. The regional designs of the Portuguese became clear when they first began their expeditionary missions capturing strategic ports like Colombo (1505), Goa (1510) and Hormuz (1515).

The principal aim was to achieve a stranglehold over the Asian trade, particularly in pepper and spices. The monopoly of the Portuguese over Asian spices, then in great demand in European markets, returned huge profits. By the early 17th century however the Portuguese hold in the Indian Ocean region was in shreds. The Dutch sensing an opportunity commenced trading activities in 1604. The Dutch mainly traded in spices, cinnamon, cloves, pepper and nutmeg.

The decline of Mughals and the rise of British in India amongst other factors is attributable to the former’s obsessive landward concerns. Mughals developed outsized armies for land battles, forsaking the Indian shores and its large coastline that provided an ideal strategic position in relation to major maritime trading routes. It was an affliction described in common parlance as sea blindness (also maritime blindness). This is a menacing threat in which large segments of the general population and governments remain ignorant of maritime future and matters related to oceans.

During 20th and 21st century, the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean has primarily resided in another commodity, oil. On the shores of the western Indian Ocean sit countries with world’s largest known reserves of fossils fuels. The energy products that travel on the maritime highways thereon have consistently underpinned economic growth in the wider Asia Pacific. The shift in economic center of gravity from the Atlantic to the Asia Pacific was the raison d’être behind the USA’s Asia pivot of 2012. It called for reorientation of US marine and naval forces from

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi

the Atlantic to the Pacific.

The Indian Ocean has seen Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971, Iran-Iraq war from 1980-88, a combined coalition operation of 34 countries codenamed Operation Desert Storm in January 1991, Operation Enduring Freedom in October 2001 and later Iraqi Freedom in March 2002. This is not to mention the EU, US and NATO naval operations against Somali piracy beginning in late 2008. The piracy had paralyzed shipping in vast swathes of the Indian Ocean.

Somali piracy extracted a phenomenal cost from commercial shippers and the world at large.

Because of their geographic location, the Islands especially in the western Indian Ocean have lately shot to politico- strategic prominence, sparking contests between powers. These Islands are ideally positioned to serve as naval and military outposts for monitoring or influencing sea lines. Alongside, they facilitate flexibility for naval operations. The governments in these tiny Islands are offering themselves for sale to the highest bidder notwithstanding local inspiration from this quote. China is not far behind diaspora. The stakes are high for all contesting parties as its analysts have often made use of this statement in Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Djibouti, Mauri- in previous as well as recent works.

It is however firmly concluded that this is a fake tius, and so on. and completely fictional statement, one wrongly atThe USA has long tributed to Mahan. The quomaintained a military base tation has no relevance to in tiny Diego Garcia. But to the maritime thinker or to demonstrate its power in the his famous work, The influunfolding race for domience of Sea Power upon Pakistan Navy formally nance in the Indian Ocean, a History. The authorities at US navy ballistic missile discouraged the use of this the US Naval War College, nuclear submarine (USS Newport, Rhode Island, West Virginia) sailed into quotation way back in 2013. But have verified to this writer Diego Garcia early this year. that Mahan never said so. during a conference when the The submarine had previearliest reference to ously surfaced in the Araattention of a scholar was drawn The this imaginary Mahan quote bian Sea and participated in appeared as an English by this scribe after the former a joint, US Strategic Comtranslation in an article in mand-directed communicaused the fake quote while Atlas World Press Review tions exercise to validate magazine of November presenting his paper, the reply 1979. emerging and innovative It was captioned, tactics in the Indian Ocean. from the presenter was “Will the Indian Ocean beOne of the 14 Ohio-Class come a Soviet Pond?” The SSBNs in service with the interesting: “when a fiction is article was originally writUS Navy, the boat is capable ten by Italian journalist, used and propagated of carrying up to 20 Trident Guido Gerosa, under the II submarine-launched balextensively, it becomes an heading, “La flotta sovietlistic missiles with multiple, ica presidia nuovi mari”, accepted truth” independently targeted warand translated from the Italheads. ian publication l’Europeo The most enduring and (Milan) of 6 August 1970. It widely cited quotation on subsequently found its way the Indian Ocean, especially by scholars and naval community in Asia, is attrib- in the Asian press.

Pakistan Navy formally discouraged the use of uted to famous American naval strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan. The quotation reads: "Whoever con- this quotation way back in 2013. But during a controls the Indian Ocean will dominate Asia. This ocean ference when the attention of a scholar was drawn by is the key to the Seven Seas. In the 21st century the this scribe after the former used the fake quote while destiny of the world will be decided on its waters". presenting his paper, the reply from the presenter was There is also a slightly different version of the said interesting: “when a fiction is used and propagated quote, “Whoever controls the Indian Ocean controls extensively, it becomes an accepted truth”.

Asia. The ocean is the key to the Seven Seas.” Like The writer can be reached at navies around the world, the Indian navy and the Indian strategic community has too drawn tremendous mazamkhan54@gmail.com.

The Israel-Palestine Conflict and the Emotional Pulse of Public Campaign Joint Editor

Executive Editor

Editor’s mail

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan.

E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Gas shortage

Pakistan is hardly in a position to boycott, let alone aid

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AminA A. GhAfoor

N the wake of recent discourse regarding the ongoing social campaigns on boycotting Israeli products to support Palestine's quest for freedom, there are challenging times for both Israel and Palestine. Presently, Palestine is experiencing severe abuse of power by Israel, leading to bloodshed, terror, and crises for innocent Palestinians. It is imperative that we stand for justice and advocate for those who are suffering anywhere in the world. Palestine is facing an onslaught, and humanity is enduring profound hardship in the region. We express our solidarity with the people of Palestine during these times.

However, considering the potential economic ramifications for a country like Pakistan, it's crucial to reconsider this approach.

It's high time to shift away from this nonchalant mindset. If we are inclined to boycott, let's do it intelligently, target their technology, medicines, esteemed authors, books, software, mobile phones, and even social platforms. However, the reality is, we can't take this route because we lack a foundation of our own. Amid a severe economic crisis, skyrocketing inflation, and a surge in extremism, the proposition to ban thriving businesses is counterproductive.

Consider the multitude of branches of these international companies operating in Pakistan.

Their entire workforce consists of Pakistanis, our own people. If they lose business here, the consequence is clear— they'll close their companies, akin to other major names like Honda, Suzuki, Toyota, and so forth. We'll be left grappling with heightened unemployment, inflation, and socio-economic tensions. Is that truly our desired outcome? The notion that one must burn their own home to save someone else's is flawed.

We ourselves lack the capacity to aid other nations. With nearly 40 percent of our population living below the poverty line and inadequate resources to meet basic human needs, our current plan seems oblivious to the escalating misery and tensions amidst our economic crisis.

Yet we are in no condition to deter international aggression towards us. Humanity is facing tough times, where cruelty and abusive power reign unchecked. While our empathy for the innocent people of Palestine is strong, our approach is misguided. We must repair our own home before attempting to fix others'. Look closely at the plight of innocent Balochis, minorities, and women. Notice the collective struggle to put food on our tables and survive these challenging times. Introducing more unemployment into our home at this juncture could lead to a collapse.

Islamabad is in dire need for international collaboration, particularly with individuals of influence ("Goras" or White people). This collaboration would bring more business, facilitating the development of skill-sets and technological know-how. The need of the hour is to truly thrive in science and technology, we must exert efforts in research and development, prioritize education and skill development, offer substantial support to tech startups and entrepreneurs, and advance infrastructure development.

Fostering collaboration with the global scientific and tech community is imperative, involving partnerships with international research institutions, active participation in collaborative projects, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise. We cannot evade the responsibilities of tomorrow.

Only when we have cultivated our own economy and are not reliant on other nations can we entertain the idea of boycotting their products. Until then, let's temper our emotions and utilize our intellect to bring prosperity and stability to our socio-economic crisis. Speaking up for others is a human obligation, and we'll persist in doing so. The world needs to witness both sides of the picture, not just the one painted in white.

Refusing to support humanity equates to racism. Let's hope for a unified global stance to champion the cause of innocent people and bring an end to war. When one corner of the world is bleeding, we're all affected, and it's our duty to advocate for the innocent. Failure to halt the war could result in its end being brought about by our collective demise.

Islamabad should approach this issue with

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

strategic thinking rather than emotion. It's a matter of humanity that demands our vocal advocacy. Employing diplomacy and forming alliances is crucial to collectively address and express concerns over the alarming situation in Palestine and Gaza on the international stage. In this era of humanity, the catastrophic conditions necessitate the use of legal international channels to bring the issue to the forefront and halt the brutality against the Palestinian people.

The ongoing war must come to an end.

Islamabad's position is unequivocal; emphasizing that diplomacy is the crucial key to halting the ongoing conflict.

However, it is imperative to handle this situation with utmost wisdom. Injustice anywhere perpetuates constant tension, affecting not only Muslims but the entire global community. It is incumbent upon us to declare our solidarity with the innocent, firmly oppose war, and stand resolutely with those who are unjustly suffering.

It's essential to recognize that standing against world powers requires a comprehensive strategy, incorporating diplomatic acumen, economic resilience, technological prowess, and a steadfast commitment to shared global values.

It's essential to recognize that standing against world powers requires a comprehensive strategy, incorporating diplomatic acumen, economic resilience, technological prowess, and a steadfast commitment to shared global values

I

Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

The writer can be amina.a.ghafoor@gmail.com

I

Monday, 30 October, 2023

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

reached

I

at

I am writing to express my deep concerns about the ongoing gas shortage that has been affecting our community in recent months. It is becoming increasingly difficult for individuals and businesses alike to access the fuel they need to go about their daily activities, and this situation demands our immediate attention. The repercussions of this gas shortage are widespread and alarming. Firstly, the rising gas prices are putting a significant financial strain on families who rely on their vehicles for commuting to work, school, and other essential activities. Moreover, local businesses, especially those in the transportation and logistics sectors, are grappling with increased operational costs that could ultimately result in layoffs or price hikes for consumers. Furthermore, the environmental impact of this gas shortage cannot be ignored. With limited access to public transportation options in our area, many people have no choice but to continue using their personal vehicles, contributing to increased air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

I urge our local and state authorities to take immediate action to address this crisis. Exploring alternative energy sources, investing in public transportation infrastructure, and implementing fuel conservation measures are some steps that can be taken to alleviate the strain on our gas supply and promote a more sustainable future.

Additionally, I encourage our community members to consider carpooling, using public transportation when possible, and adopting fuel-efficient driving practices to reduce their individual carbon footprint. It is my hope that by bringing attention to this issue, we can work together to find practical solutions and ensure that our community does not suffer further due to this gas shortage.

REEBA SALEEM KARACHI

Population dynamics

PAKISTAN is a country known for being star-crossed. Whenever a star appears over this byzantine country, it is invariably viewed as a foreboding omen. Albeit, to this day, the very source of discord that led it from economic collapse to severe inflation, political instability to civil polarisation, water shortage to land degradation, academic shortcomings to underage labours, and rural urbanisation to deforestation is unbridled population growth quietly drawing unseen meteors.

In Pakistan, the population is burgeoning rapidly at a growth rate of 2.55% annually and, according to United Nations estimates, is ranked as the 5th most populated country in the world. The growing population has proven to be an agent of meteors’ arrival; one of them is child labor. Middle-class families having multiple children later in life have no choice but to be unable to nurture their children properly, depriving them of the right to education and making them do hazardous labour work. As the saying goes, “for a nation, children are shining stars in the sky,” but in our sky, stars don’t shine anymore because it has clouded itself with labour and scrounging. The reasons are pretty obvious because these families are unable to make ends meet, let alone provide children with basic amenities in a comet-stricken country that is about to collide with several catastrophic comet clusters. Uncontrolled population surge plays the role of gravitational force in escalating the velocity of falling meteorites. To stop meteorites from falling, dealing with the gravity of a burgeoning population is more of a concern. Implementing comprehensive family planning campaigns tailored to specific regions can play a pivotal role in raising awareness about contraceptive methods. Simultaneously, fostering gender equality empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive lives. Promoting widespread education and creating economic opportunities even further contribute to averting the impending collision. However, overcoming the gravitational pull of a surging population remains a theoretical endeavour; for that, let us rewrite the cosmic narrative, steering away from the collision course through these campaigns that are akin to winds that disperse the clouds in the sky, allowing our children to once again shine like the stars they are meant to be.

TAHIR JAMAL NAWABSHAH

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

What ails Pakistan’s economy and polity?

Monday, 30 October, 2023

Pakistan has still to break free of the shackles imposed by the British

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Amjed jAAved

AKISTAN’S economy is currently faced with a myriad of problems. These problems have been compounded by inconsistent and erratic economic policies followed during democratic and praetorian periods. Successive rulers kept taking loans and spending them as if they were grants.

Pakistan’s debt burden has a political tinge. The USA rewarded Pakistan by showering grants on Pakistan for joining anti-USSR alliances (South-East Asian Treaty Organisation and Central Treaty Organisation).

Initially Pakistan had a fixed exchange rate that prevented ballooning debt burden. Add to it shrinking exports and foreign exchange reserves.

In economics there are burden-of-debt models that could help decide how productively the debt should be used so that both principal and debt-service could be repaid. Unfortunately we spent the debt as if it were a nonrepayable windfall bonanza. For instance, Domar (1994) stated two necessary conditions for public debt sustainability. One, nominal gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate should be greater than the growth rate of public debt. Two, the real rate of interest should be lower than the real rate of growth.

Odious debts. Apparently, all Pakistani debts are odious as they were thrust upon praetorian regimes to bring them within anti-Communist (SouthEast Asia Treaty Organisation, Central Treaty Organisation) or anti-`terrorist’ fold.

No sustained action for forgiveness of odious debts.

Several IMF and US State Department delegations vis-

ited Pakistan. But, Pakistan could not tell them pointblank about non-liability to service politically-stringed debts. The government’s dilemma in Pakistan is that defence and anti-terrorism outlays plus debt-service charges leave little in the national kitty for welfare. Solution lies in debt forgiveness by donors (James K. Boyce and Madakene O’Donnell(eds.), Peace and the Public Purse). No formal application for write-off: Successive Pakistan governments treated loans as freebies.

They never abided by the revised Fiscal Responsibility and Debt Limitation Act. Nor did our State Bank clearly warn them about the dangerous situation.

Political parties without economic agenda. Clientelism and patronage is the hallmark of all political parties. A mindless coterie is again and again appointed ministers and advisors. Parties win elections by pandering to the base sentiments of the people. A key element of election slogans is always ‘change’. But, the nittygritty of the ‘change’ remains a strictly guarded mumbo jumbo. Sincerity demands that the parties should spell out their policies with regard to various factors of production, i.e. land, natural resources, the socio-economic milieu, labour, capital and organisation. But they keep mum about their agenda.

The taxation proposals do little to squeeze the haves.

Nothing is done to reduce inequitable distribution of wealth and economic power. No heed is paid to the structure of our society. How did the filthy rich, the feudal lords and the industrial robber barons come into being?

If accumulated wealth in a few hands is rooted in wrongdoing, a considerable chunk of it should be mopped up.

Vested interests resist the change.

The British created a class of chieftains to suit their need for loyalists, war fundraisers and recruiters in the post-Mutiny period and during the Second World War. A royal gubernatorial gazetteer states: “I have for many years felt convinced that the time had arrived for the Government to try to introduce some distinction for those who can show hereditary services before the on’ble Company’s rule in India ceased. I have often said that I should be proud to wear a Copper Order, bearing merely the words ‘Teesri pusht Sirkar Company ka Naukar’ (Third generation Company’s servant).” A feudal aristocracy was created whose generations ruled post-independence governments.

Some pirs and mashaikh (religious leaders) even quoted verses from the Holy Quran to justify allegiance to the Englishman (amir), after loyalty to Allah and the Messenger (PBUH). They pointed out that the Quran ordained that ehsan (favour) be returned with favour. The ehsan were British favours like titles (khan bahadur,

How Israel’s spies failed

nabob, etc), honorary medals, khilats with attached money rewards, life pensions, office of honorary magistrate, assistant commissioner, courtier, etc. A Tiwana military officer even testified in favour of O’Dwyer when the latter was under trial.

Ayub Khan added the chapter of 22 families to the aristocracy, a legacy of the English Raj. About 460 scions of the pre-partition chiefs along with industrial barons created in the Ayub era are returned again and again to the parliaments. They do not allow agricultural incomes, industrial profits or real estate to be adequately taxed.

Economic advisor’s view of the economic malaise.

In his book Growth and Inequality in Pakistan: Agenda for Reforms, Hafiz A. Pasha has unwound the tangled skein of Pakistan’s economic malaise. He laments that income-and-wealth-tax rules and regulations are so drafted as to facilitate ‘state capture by the elite’.

The ‘tax-concession-and-exemption laws’ give special privileges to different vested interests. The privileges are in the form of “preferential access to land, bank credit, etc, which facilitate faster accumulation of assets”. He visualises “elite “as “the conglomeration of rich powerful people in society”. Among the “elite state captors”, he includes “large land-owners, defence establishment, multinational companies, urban property developers, and owners, and so on” .

Large landowners. To Pasha, this group has, since Partition, enjoyed tax privileges, like exemption from income tax on agricultural incomes (now devolved upon provinces after the 18th Amendment). There are only 13,438 landowners (with average land holding of 435 acres) constituting only 0.2 per cent of the population of farmers in the country. The large landowners own about 11 percent of the whole farm area (Agriculture Census 2010). Under the pressure of the International Monetary Fund, a tentative agriculture-income tax was imposed in the Punjab and Sindh exempting holdings of 12.5 acres.

The maximum tax rate was Rs 250 per acre for farms exceeding 25 acres. It yielded only about five per cent of the average net incomes per year.

Later the tax was imposed on net incomes exceeding Rs 300,000. Income up to Rs 100,000 was tax-exempt.

The revenue from this tax during 2017-18 was a paltry Rs. two billion, equivalent to only 0.07 per cent of the net income from crops.

Agricultural income is a tax haven. The potential revenue from agricultural income is Rs. 103 billion (based on 2017-18 Gross Domestic Product), if it is treated at par with urban tax income.

Water charge (abiana). The water charge is one-tenth of the actual cost incurred by the government. (Rs 15 billion).The water charge is less than Rs 100 per acre.

known weakness of not connecting the dots, primarily by having too many analysts and insufficient integration. It is obvious that the Hamas trainings to occupy Israeli settlements—as shown, for example, by CNN— were well observed by Israeli drones and other means of collection.

Nevertheless, Aman’s analysts failed to recognize their true meaning, regarding them instead as show-off exercises. According to some reports, Hamas misled and deceived Israel’s SIGINT means of collection by talking in calls monitored by Unit 8200—and possibly Unit 81 and Shin Bet SIGINT— about avoiding a new war, thus revealing a far higher level of sophistication than previously realized.

The last line of defense, the 40-mile barrier along the border, provided the Israelis with a false sense of confidence. When the IDF unveiled this $1.1 billion project upon its completion in December 2021, it gave the impression that no terrorist would be able to cross it. Its main element was a huge subterranean anti-tunnel barrier, with enough cement to “build a road from Gaza to Bulgaria,” as the IDF put it. This underground part of the barrier proved to be effective on Oct. 7.

In addition to the cement underground, the project planners invested effort in providing effective cyberprotection to the electronic collection system on the fence. But they did not consider a scenario in which Hamas would use explosives to break it and drones to drop explosives on the sophisticated observation posts that transmitted visual intelligence to the screens of trained soldiers who serve in underground shelters (some of these off-duty soldiers, many of them women, were killed while they slept after Hamas breached the border and attacked the base).

The drones knocked out an estimated 100 remotely-operated machine gun towers as well. One can hardly understand this oversight considering the many war clips from Ukraine that show how Ukrainians have used drones to drop grenades on Russian tanks and soldiers.

The IDF also used three large observation balloons as a second-line platform to surveil Gaza in its southern, central, and northern sectors. In the weeks before the attack, the three balloons were taken out of service due to their activation under unsuitable weather conditions, but the army neglected to return them to service.

Though insufficient high-quality warning intelligence was the main cause of Israeli complacency, one should not ignore the role of lack of imagination, which was highlighted in the United States context by the 9/11 Commission Report.

Given the enormity of Hamas’s massacre, the Israeli government and the public are determined to achieve nothing less than the full eradication of Hamas’s military and civic power. It is also recognized, inside and outside the Israeli government, that a commitment to the full annihilation of Hamas as an organization is unprecedented, and as former Prime Minister Ehud Barak and others pointed out, it is probably unachievable.

Hezbollah, as Israel’s Minister of Defense stated on Oct. 18, is 10 times stronger than Hamas. It claims to command 100,000 fighters, and it possesses tens of thousands of rockets and missiles, some highly precise, that could target Israel’s entire territory and do severe damage to major cities and military facilities. There is also the looming specter of Iran, Hezbollah’s patron. On Oct. 14, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel while visiting Beirut to stop its Gaza bombardment or face a “huge earthquake.”

Nobody knows whether Hezbollah—and possibly Iran—would stay on the sidelines during a prolonged, devastating Israeli attack on Gaza to eradicate Hamas. At the same time, shocked by their failure to detect the incoming Hamas attack, Israel’s intelligence organizations are now hypersensitive to any signal of a similar threat, leading to a series of

The culture of intelligence agencies paved the way for disaster. Regional war could revive the nuclear specter that haunted the world in 1973

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FOREIGN POLICY

Uri BAr-joseph And Avner Cohen

HE trauma that Israel suffered on Oct. 7 is both unprecedented and unthinkable by any Israeli historical measure. Never before has Israel experienced such a calamity in its 75year history. Even Hamas never expected such operational success. Indeed, actors across the region, notably Hezbollah and Iran, were stunned by the success of the Hamas offensive.

One striking finding that only became known in recent days highlights the enormity of the Israeli intelligence blunder: Israeli military planners never considered such an attack, even in their worst-case scenarios. Indeed, the worst-case scenario conceived was a simultaneous attack on five to seven civilian settlements. Hamas’s offensive targeted nearly five times as many—and a music festival.

Surprises of this magnitude nurture the environment in which major strategic miscalculations could—and, indeed, are likely—to happen. Given the ongoing hostilities, it is important to understand the internal dynamics within Israel’s security establishment that led to the intelligence failure and the risks of unintended escalation, keeping in mind that Israel is an undeclared nuclear weapons state.

Israel’s two prime intelligence organizations tasked with providing a strategic warning alert as well as forestalling specific terrorist acts from Gaza are the General Security Service (known as Shabak or Shin Bet in Hebrew), which is in charge of human intelligence (HUMINT) but uses technological means, mainly signal intelligence (SIGINT) as well, and the Military Intelligence Directorate (known as Aman in Hebrew) of the Israel Defense Force (IDF), which uses mainly technical means of collection.

Israel’s warning system against either small- or large-scale terrorist attacks from Gaza relied on three main defense layers. The first, consisting mainly of the Shin Bet’s HUMINT sources, aimed to provide a warning that Hamas leadership had decided to plan, prepare, and execute a major offensive. The second layer, based on Aman’s SIGINT collection capabilities (units 8200 and 81) and imagery intelligence (Unit 9900), involved collecting evidence about Hamas’s actual preparations for the attack.

The third layer was the big ground barrier along the border with Gaza, which integrated physical obstacles, electronic sensors, and other visual means aimed at providing a last line of defense against any attempt to break into Israel. All three layers collapsed on the morning of Oct. 7. They did not provide any strategic warning on the nature and magnitude of the impending offensive.

In contrast to its longtime tradition, the Shin Bet has tended in recent years to provide intelligence to

please the prime minister. At the root of this blunder appear to be two fundamental failures. The first is conceptual, as was famously the case in 1973: A false but steady and solid joint estimate from the Shin Bet and Aman that consisted of two elements: First, Israeli military and intelligence superiority would deter Hamas from initiating any major military act; and second, if Hamas launched such an attack, the Shin Bet and Aman would provide a timely warning.

Hamas’s relative restraint in recent years and its apparent interest in continuing the flow of cash from Qatar and increasing the number of Gaza residents allowed to work in Israel enhanced this concept in the collective psyche of Israel’s political, military, and intelligence leaders.

The adherence to the calming concept led senior officers to ignore warning indicators prior to the attack. Over the past several years, civilian amateurs near the border have monitored Hamas’s wireless communications in which troops organized and conducted endless training exercises in occupying Israeli settlements. In recent weeks, these officers received reports on irregular activities such as disguised farmers taking photos of the border fence and Hamas troops with maps observing military strongholds and settlements on the Israeli side, but disregarded them.

There was even an eleventh-hour chance to deter or minimize the attack: During the night of Oct. 6, Israeli intelligence detected some warning indicators that generated a series of late-night high-ranking consultations, but the flawed concept prevailed and no significant increase in the state of alert along the border was taken; the Shin Bet sent a few additional agents to the south, but Aman’s director, Maj. Gen. Aharon Halive, continued his vacation in Eilat and no major deployments were made.

The second and even more astonishing failure is that of collection. It appears that the Shin Bet failed in its fundamental mission and provided no significant warning regarding Hamas’s intention to launch a major attack. Its director, Ronen Bar, on Oct. 16 took responsibility for this failure, and his colleague in Aman followed suit shortly after.

The excellent record of the Shin Bet, as well as the fact that the number of Hamas operatives aware of the secret operation must have been rather large, compounds the failure. Despite the well-known difficulties of recruiting human sources in Islamist fundamentalist groups, the lack of any advance information from intelligence assets in Gaza is damning.

Other explanations have more to do with specific traits of the Shin Bet. Most important among them is its organizational culture, which emphasizes operations and the need to ward off concrete and isolated threats rather than provide abstract warnings against an all-out attack.

One of the outcomes of this culture, according to several retired Shin Bet operatives we spoke with, was to assign a large-scale attempt by Hamas to occupy Israeli settlements near the border a low rank in the service’s order of priorities. Another was the degeneration of the Shin Bet’s research capabilities.

A large research department was established in the late 1980s in order to provide strategic assessments. Due to organizational preferences, it lost its effectiveness in recent years. In addition, in contrast to its longtime tradition, the Shin Bet has tended in recent years to provide intelligence to please. Its estimates supported Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policy aimed at nurturing Hamas rule in Gaza and diminishing the power and influence of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.

Less is known about Aman’s contribution to the failure, but it seems that it suffered from the well-

Wheat and sugar subsidized procurement. Procurement price of wheat is higher than the price of imported wheat. The concession on agricultural incomes, low water charges and high procurement price added over Rs 200 billion to the incomes of large farmers’ ‘.

Government barred from undertaking land reforms.

A 3-2 vote judgement of the Shariat Appellate Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan in the Qazalbash Waqf v.

Chief Land Commissioner, Punjab case on 10 August 1989 (made effective from 23 March 1990) blocked land reforms in Pakistan. It uncannily strengthened feudal aristocracy. Pakistan can’t do away with all jagirs as did India way back in 1948 because of the afore-quoted judgement. Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani writes in his lead judgment: “ (1). … Everything in the world actually belongs to Allah and he has granted humans the right to utilize them within the limits of divine laws. … There are certain obligations on the person who uses the land.

The right to property in Islam is absolute, and not even the state can interfere with this right. (2) Islam has imposed no quantitative limit (ceiling) on land or any other commodity that can be owned by a person. (3). If the state imposes a permanent limit on the amount of land which can be owned by its citizen, and legally prohibits them from acquiring any property beyond that prescribed limit, then such an imposition of limit is completely prohibited by the Shariah.”

The two dissenting judges, Nasim Hassan Shah and Shafiur Rahman argued that a limit on land holdings was necessary to reform society and alleviate poverty.

Could our Parliament reopen the case to align it with its dream of a Medina welfare state? Medina state, like Singapore, owned all land. Are jagirs a divine or a British gift? How did the filthy rich, the feudal lords and the industrial robber barons come into being? If accumulated wealth in a few hands is rooted in wrongdoing, a considerable chunk of it should be mopped up. Peek into the pre-partition gazetteers and you would know the patri-lineage of many of today’s Tiwanas, Nawabs, Pirs, Syed, Faqirs, Qizilbashs, Kharrals, Gakkhars, and their ilk. Taqi Osmani overlooked that a feudal aristocracy was created whose generations ruled post-independence governments. Is it anathema to look into the origin of land grants or wealth accumulation in public interest?

Why not tax them heavily to fund basic needs of the downtrodden? To conclude, factors contributing to Pakistan’s economic malaise are obvious. However political will to grapple them is lacking.

The writer is a freelance journalist, has served in the Pakistan government for 39 years and holds degrees in economics, business administration, and law. He can be reached at amjedjaaved@gmail.com

false alarms in recent days.

This was the case after their 1973 blunder, when they issued a number of alarms of a coming Egyptian or Syrian offensive, as was described in the Hebrew memoirs of Maj. Gen. Motta Gur, the head of the Northern Command after the war. One thing is clear, though: All-out intentional or unintentional escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, with or without Iran, could generate war scenarios of a kind of ferocity and savagery that the region has never seen before.

It is this significant and uncertain risk that highlights the prominence of the American factor in the current equation. Here is a reminder: Fifty years ago, on Oct. 7, the second and worst day of the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Dayan asked Prime Minister Golda Meir to mobilize the readiness of Israeli nuclear weapons (presumably to assemble the weapons) for a demonstration.

It is also alleged by some (including Seymour Hersh in his book The Samson Option) that U.S. President Richard Nixon’s decision on Oct. 12, 1973, to start an immediate airlift to Israel was taken due to an Israeli nuclear alert.

U.S. President Joe Biden recognized the unprecedented nature of the situation and immediately ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to sail toward Israeli shores, while also initiating an airlift of military supplies to Israel. By now, more than a week later, a second carrier strike group, the USS Eisenhower, is on its way to the eastern Mediterranean.

Never in any past Israeli wars has the U.S. government acted so decisively and swiftly as it has acted. Biden’s support of Israel is without doubt unprecedented, and it is a unique combination of both values and interest, sentiments and strategic requirements. On the strategic side, the purpose is quite evident—deterrence—telling Hezbollah and Iran, as Biden himself put it: “Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t.”

But there may be another strategic concern in play. Although Washington rarely mentions it, Israel is a nuclear weapons state, but of a special kind, never having formally declared or overtly tested its arsenal. For more than half a century, Israel has built and maintained a unique, opaque nuclear posture, effectively creating a regional nuclear monopoly aimed at deterring existential threats. All past Israeli leaders treated this strategic asset as sacred, while the United States, since Nixon, tacitly accepted Israel’s unique nuclear status as long as it was nurtured in a responsible manner.

Over the last 10 months, however, Netanyahu has treated this legacy with disregard, even irresponsibility. He appointed the politician David Amsalem, an unqualified loyalist, as the day-to-day minister in charge of the Israel Atomic Energy Commission.

Recently, against the advice of his nuclear experts, Netanyahu considered a Saudi independent enrichment capability—which, as in any country, carries the risk of weaponization—in exchange for normalization with Israel. This comes against the backdrop of past incidents, including in the late 1990s, in which Netanyahu left his nuclear guardians with the impression that he lacks the qualities to control Israel’s nuclear keys. At a time when Israel is at war in Gaza, there is a real risk that Hezbollah might unleash tens of thousands of missiles on Israeli cities.

That, in turn, could generate situations in which reckless and inexperienced ministers go astray in their reactions. Indeed, just days ago, one Israeli far-right Likud lawmaker, Tally Gotliv, publicly urged the government to use “everything in its arsenal,” including “doomsday” weapons, against Hamas.

Uri Bar-Joseph is a professor emeritus in the Department for International Relations of the School for Political Science at Haifa University in Israel.

Avner Cohen is a professor in the Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies (NPTS) at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey in California. He is the author of Israel and the Bomb and The Worst-Kept Secret: Israel's Bargain With the Bomb.

06 NEWS

Chinese FM suggests roAd to Xi-Biden suMMit will not Be sMooth

C

BEIJING

AGENCIES

HINA’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the “road to the San Francisco summit will not be a smooth one”, the foreign ministry said on Sunday, in a reference to an expected meeting between President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden.

Wang met Biden and his top aides in Washington in recent days, agreeing to work together toward the expected bilateral meeting on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum summit.

A flurry of bilateral diplomatic engagements in recent months, largely at US request, has aimed at salvaging what were rapidly deteriorating ties early in the year following the US downing of an alleged Chinese spy balloon.

But in remarks on Saturday, Wang cautioned the road to the summit would not be a smooth one and travelling there would not be on “autopilot”, the ministry

said in a statement.

He was speaking after a discussion with members of the US strategic com-

Bangladesh opposition chief held after anti-PM protests DHAKA

AGENCIES

Bangladesh’s main opposition leader was detained for questioning on Sunday, as clashes raged for a second day between police and protesters demonstrating against the prime minister ahead of upcoming elections. Police also made a series of raids on the homes of senior Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders, party spokesman Zahir Uddin Swapan said, adding that nearly 3,000 party activists and supporters had been detained in the past week.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Habibur Rahman said BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir had been “detained for interrogation”.

Rahman told AFP that Alamgir would be questioned over Saturday’s violence in which a police officer and a protester were killed, and at least 26 police ambulances were torched or damaged. Alamgir, 75, the BNP’s secretary-general, has led the party since BNP chairwoman and two-time former premier Khaleda Zia was arrested and jailed, and her son went into exile in Britain. The resurgent opposition has been mounting protests for months, despite their ailing leader Zia being effectively under house arrest after a conviction on corruption charges.

munity in Washington, the ministry said.

Last month, China’s top security agency suggested any Xi-Biden meeting

in San Francisco hinged on the US “showing sufficient sincerity”.

Wang said China and the US needed to “return to Bali”, referring to the last meeting between Biden and Xi, on the sidelines of a Group of 20 summit on the Indonesian resort island last November, where they discussed Taiwan, competition and communication.

Washington and Beijing must put into practice the consensus achieved then, “remove interference, overcome obstacles, enhance consensus and gather outcomes”, Wang said.

He said both sides have jointly sent out positive signals to stabilise and improve relations, believing it is useful and necessary to maintain dialogue even as there are still various differences and contradictions, and issues to be resolved.

Saturday’s discussions also included in-depth exchanges on the interaction between China and US militaries, finance, science and technology, China’s investment environment and market access, as well as the Middle East and Ukraine crises.

Demonstrations across UK, Europe mark Kashmir ‘Black Day’ LONDON

AGENCIES

Kashmiris, Pakistanis and their allies held protest demonstrations outside Indian missions in the United Kingdom and Europe to mark 76 years of illegal Indian occupation of Kashmir by India.

Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK led the protests and digital campaign across the region, reminding the international community to wake up to realities of the time.

Protestors raised pro-Kashmir and pro-freedom slogans outside the Indian missions to send a message that no military might of India can suppress Kashmiris from getting their birthright. It was on October 27 in 1947 that India invaded and occupied the United Nations-designated disputed territory. The President of Tehreek-e-Kashmir, UK, Fahim Kayani, told a demonstration in Oslo that it was the right time that the UN and the international community open eyes and give Kashmiris their right i.e. a free and fair plebiscite.

Warning against delay in implementing UN resolutions on Kashmir, he said: “What is happening in Gaza today is the result of the same delaying tactics in upholding international law and the UN Charter on Palestine.”

Addressing a demonstration outside the Indian mission in Oslo, Kayani said: “Nazi-inspired Hindutva regime in New Delhi has gone rogue and is committing crimes against humanity in western capitals. The western capitals must wake up early to the threat India poses to them and their citizens.” “I fear if the case of Kashmir is delayed like this, it will invite a nuclear crisis,” said Kayani, urging immediate attention to the worsening rights situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Responding to the call of Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK, demonstrations were held in Glasgow, Dundee, Nelson, Birmingham, Como, Luton and Manchester.

Shah Hussain, President of Tehreek-e-Kashmir, Norway, and Rafqat Ali General Secretary led the protest in Oslo. Tehreek-e-Kashmir leadership Muhammad Hanif Raja, Shah Hussain, Rafaqat Ali, Chaudhry Fakhr Iqbal Sahib, Chaudhry Yasin, Chaudhry Ikramul Haque, Chaudhry Nasr Iqba, Chaudhary Muhammad Ramzan, Syed Tufail Hussain Shah, Shukat Sultan and Chaudhry Nasr Iqbal , led protests in their respective cities and towns. ‘Kashmiris struggling for their right to self-determination’ Speakers of the Kashmir Conference held in the city of Dallas, Texas.

Kazakhstan mourns for 42 dead in ArcelorMittal mine disaster KARAGANDA, KAZAKHSTAN AGENCIES

Kazakhstan held nationwide mourning on Sunday after 42 people died in a blaze at an ArcelorMittal mine, the worst accident in the Central Asian country’s post-Soviet history.

The tragedy, which struck at the Kostenko coal mine in the Karaganda region Saturday, came after a series of deadly incidents at ArcelorMittal mines and has prompted the nationalisation of the company’s local affiliate.

“As of 3 pm (0900 GMT) the bodies of 42 people were found,” Kazakhstan’s emergency services said on social media.

“The search for four miners continues.” Rescuers earlier warned that finding the remaining miners alive were “very low”, due to the lack of ventilation and the force of Saturday’s explosion, which spread over two kilometres (1.2 miles).

The death toll overtook a 2006 accident that killed 41 miners at another ArcelorMittal site. It also came just two months after another incident killed five miners.

Anger and disbelief reigned after the disaster in Karaganda, central Kazakhstan.

“Every miner is a hero, because when he goes down, he does not know if he will come back or not,” said former miner Sergei Glazkov.

Many welcomed the government’s move towards nationalisation, angered by the company’s safety record. Daniar Mustafin, a 42-year-old salesman, said he favoured “full nationalisation without material compensation for the current owners”.

Monday, 30 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

Pebble Breaker clinches lsC Polo in Pink 2023 title LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Team Pebble Breaker defeated Lahore Smart City with a score of 5-3 to clinch the title in the Lahore Smart City (LSC) Polo in Pink Tournament 2023 that concluded here at the Lahore Polo Club on Sunday.

Chairman of Lahore Smart City, Zahid Rafiq, graced the event as the chief guest. The occasion was attended by prominent figures including MD Muhammad Jahanzeb Zahid, Chief Financial Officer Zahid Arif, Chief Operating Officer Imran Zahid, Lahore Polo Club President Azam Hayat Noon, executive committee members, families, children, and a multitude of passionate polo lovers.

The event also drew the presence of foreign women polo players and renowned showbiz personalities, with notable attendees like Juggun Kazim. The day began with a spirited javelin competition, followed by an exciting motorcycle parade that thrilled the spectators. The final match kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Pebble Breaker exhibited exceptional gameplay, ultimately defeating Lahore Smart City with a score of 5-3. Bilal Haye was the standout performer, contributing three crucial goals, while Ahmed Ali Tiwana scored two goals for Pebble Breaker. On the opposing side, Farooq Amin Sufi, Mumtaz Abbas Niazi, and Agha Musa each scored a goal for Lahore Smart City.

In the Subsidiary Final, Team FG Polo displayed their prowess by defeating DS/Sheikhoo Steel with a score of 8-5½. The prize distribution ceremony concluded the event, with shields and prizes awarded to the winners, runners-up, and top performers by the esteemed chief guest.

ecstatic south Africans celebrate rugby world Cup glory JOHANNESBURG AGENCIES

Ecstatic South Africans celebrated well into Sunday after the Springboks claimed a record fourth title by defeating New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final in Paris. Supporters of the national rugby team drank beers, waved flags and partied until the early hours in a wave of jubilation that swept the country from Cape Town to Johannesburg. “I feel so good, I was literally in tears,” said Sofia Pringen, 21, her face painted in South Africa’s national colours as she celebrated in central Cape Town after the victory.

“I knew that we (were) definitely going to win. I’m so happy! I am very happy!”

The iconic port city’s centre and waterfront were swarmed by thousands of Springboks t-shirt-wearing fans on Saturday night, many having watched the game at one of the several maxi screens set up by local authorities for public viewing. After the match, motorcades of honking cars rode through the streets.

“It’s an incredible feeling, absolutely incredible feeling. The energy from all the local people, from everyone from Cape Town (is) absolutely unreal,” said Daniel Louis, a 20-year-old student.

South Africa edged New Zealand 12-11 for a nailbiting victory, helped by four penalty goals from ice-cool fly-half Handre Pollard.

At a tavern in Alexandra, a crime-ridden, impoverished Johannesburg township, celebrating Springboks supporters hugged, danced and cheered as the referee blew the final whistle.

As is often the case with finals, the match was a tight, edgy encounter at a rain-soaked Stade de France, where defences ruled and the All Blacks lost captain Sam Cane to a first-half red card for a high tackle.

The Springboks prevailed to win a third successive knockout match in this tournament by a point, and add to their titles in 1995, 2007 and 2019.

“Sport has the power to transform individuals… and lift the spirits of entire nations,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was at the stadium in Saint-Denis, on the outskirts of Paris, and flanked captain Siya Kolisi as he lifted the Webb Ellis Cup. “Tonight, Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our Flag even higher.”

Turkey celebrates centenary in shadow of Gaza war ISTANBUL

AGENCIES

Turkey marked its centenary as a post-Ottoman republic on Sunday with somewhat muted celebrations held in the shadow of Israel’s escalating war with Hamas militants in Gaza.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was front and centre of daylong events that both honour the secular republic’s founder and play up the achievement of the Islamicrooted party that has run Turkey since 2002.

“Our country is in safe hands, you may rest in peace,” Erdogan said after laying a wreath at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk — the Turkish military commander whose legacy the current president has vied with during his two-decade rule.

Ataturk is lionised across Turkish society for driving out invading forces and building a brand new nation out of the fallen Ottoman Empire’s ruins in the wake of World

War I. Turkey was formed as a Westward-facing nation that stripped religion from its state institutions and tried to forge a modern new identity out its myriad ethnic groups.

It eventually became a proud member of the US-led NATO defence alliance and a beacon of democratic hopes in the Middle East.

But Ataturk’s social and geopolitical transformation of the overwhelmingly Muslim nation created divisions that weigh on Turkish politics to this day.

Erdogan tapped into these as he led his conservative Justice and Development Party (AKP) to power over the leftist Republican People’s Party (CHP) formed by Ataturk.

He has spent much of the past decade testing the limits of Turkey’s secular traditions as well as its ties with the West.

These competing forces were on full display as Erdogan moved from honouring Turkey’s past to celebrating his own government’s achievement while he was prime

minister and president.

Sunday’s celebrations have been partially eclipsed by Erdogan’s increasingly fierce attacks against Israel over its response to the October 7 Hamas attacks.

The militants killed 1,400 people and took 220 hostages in a surprise raid that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the worst “since the Holocaust”.

Israel has retaliated with ferocious air strikes and an unfolding ground offensive that the Hamasrun health ministry in Gaza says has claimed more than 8,000 lives.

Turkish state television has also scrapped the broadcast of concerts and other festivities because of the “alarming human tragedy in Gaza”.

Erdogan’s lifelong defence of Palestinian rights has turned him into a hero across swathes of the Muslim world. He announced that 1.5 million people had come out for a pro-Palestinian rally in Istanbul on Saturday that ended up drowning out national television coverage of the centenary.

NEWS

CORPORATE CORNER

Karachi: Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori cutting a cake along with Consul General of Turkiye Cemal Sangu. PR

SPF, Karachi Police East Zone team up for community policing

T

PESHAWAR

AZIZ BUNERI

HE Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Fuad Ishaq said imposition of blended gas policy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where in surplus gas production and also a net exporting province is tantamount to push its industries towards destruction and usurp the constitutional rights.

The SCCI chief called the policy as a complete unjust, deplorable and detrimental, which should be reviewed, and to keep the wheel running of industries.

If in case not do so, Fuad expressed fear that the terrorism and coronavirus pandemic lockdown battered industries of the province will come to a complete halt and will give birth to massive unemployment in the K-P. Fuad Ishaq expressed these apprehensions and opposition toward the pol-

icy during a meeting with former All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) former provincial chairman Afan Aziz here at the chamber’s house, said in a press release issued on Sunday.

Ijaz Khan Afridi, vice president and Sajjad Aziz, Secretary General of the chamber and others were also present in the meeting. Fuad Ishaq said central government after increasing gas prices by 193 per cent, is mulling to impose the blended gas policy, which is sheer unjust and unfair with the business community and industrialists of the region/province, like K-P, wherein the gas production is surplus and also a net exporter province of the natural gas, which is unacceptable.

During the discussion, the SCCI chief said the government plans to supply natural gas to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by implementing a blended gas policy with a ratio of 80/20 under which gas rates will further surge up for different sectors in the province.

Apart from implementation of the blended policy, Fuad Ishaq said RLNG rates will also impose on the K-P region, which is highly unfair with this province, and a complete negation of article 158-A that gave guarantee to KP that it should first use its indigenous natural resources.

Not a single industrial gas connection was given to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 13 years, contrary to that industrial gas connections were provided in Punjab, which was tantamount of discriminatory attitude, Fuad Ishaq said.

The SCCI chief said the terrorism and coronavirus pandemic lockdown suffered KP industries are still reeling while the industries have also confronted with several others difficulties owing far away from seaport and central market and now KP industries will come to verge of complete closure after the recent increase by 193 per cent gas prices, with imposition of the blended gas policy that will also generate unemployment in the province.

He enumerated the total gas production of KP is approximately 400mmcfds against its 200mmcfds consumption despite the fact that gas was providing on highest rates to consumers of the province, which open violation of the article 158-A, and tantamount to usurp the constitutional rights of smaller federating units. Fuad Ishaq lodged a protest over imposing the blended gas policy on KP, asking the government to review this policy, and withdraw it in the best interest of industries, trade and businesses and national economy.

The chamber president was of the view that KP business community and people have rendered countless sacrifices for the country and its defence, so now in this difficult time, small province should give status of small brother and be treated KP province with compassion so that people business and wheel of industries should keep running and this province hardworker, shopkeepers and industrialists continue to earn livelihoods for their families.

Gas theft crackdown: Another 149 connections Pakistani businessman holds jewelry preview disconnected in Punjab, KP and Islamabad for CIIE

KARACHI

LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Save Pakistan Foundation (Registered) and Karachi Police East Zone regarding "Community Policing Training" was held at DIG Office East Zone Karachi on Saturday. The MoU was signed by DIG East Zone Captain (Retd) Ghulam Azfar Mahesar and Secretary General of Save Pakistan Foundation (Registered) Kamran Chouhan.

On this occasion, Secretary General of Save Pakistan Foundation (Registered) Kamran Chauhan said that "community policing" is the need of hour. He said the role of the police is key for the establishment of a peaceful and ideal society, therefore it is very important to train the police officers and personnel according to the modern times and align them with modern sciences. He said we strive to improve the interaction between the police and the public.

He revealed that Save Pakistan Foundation is organizing special trainings for police officers and personnel, which will include SHOs, SIOs, Head Moharars and others. On this occasion, DIG East Zone Captain (Retd) Ghulam Azfar Mahesar assured full cooperation.

AIOU to organize three-day int’l moot on Islamic Finance

STAFF REPORT

During the ongoing crackdown against gas pilferers, SNGPL continued raids in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad, disconnecting another 149 connections and 253 under billing cases processed.

In Lahore, the regional team disconnected 5 connections on illegal use of gas and another 7 on use of compressor, 72 Under billing cases have been processed. In Bahawalpur, the regional team disconnected four connections on use of

compressor while another 41 connections on illegal use of gas and 7 Under billing cases have been processed. The company disconnected 7 connections on illegal use of gas, 9 Under billing cases have been processed in Multan. In Sheikhupura, 21 on illegal use of gas and 43 under billing cases have been processed and team also lodged 1FIR against gas thieves.

In Peshawar, the company disconnected 45 connections on account of direct use of gas and illegal connections. The regional team also lodged 2 FIRs against gas thieves.In

Rawalpindi the regional team disconnected 2 gas connection on illegal use .In Mardan Four connections were disconnected against illegal use of gas. The regional team in Gujranwala 30 under billing cases processed and 2 meters were disconnected on the use of compressor and 2 on illegal use of gas.

The company disconnected seven connections on illegal and direct use of gas in Islamabad. In Sahiwal, two connections were disconnected on illegal use of gas. The regional team in Faisalabad processed 12 under billing cases.

Residents welcome CDA’s user-friendly online payment service ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The residents of the federal capital have welcomed the initiative of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Sunday to introduce a user-friendly online payment service for utility bills as a part of the digitalization process, ensuring customers’ convenience.

“The online payment service is set to simplify the payment process for all utility bills to offer a more convenient and efficient way for customers to fulfill their financial responsibilities,” said a resident Fateh Muhammad. He said the advantages of the digital payment service go beyond convenience as allowing residents to pay their utility bills online minimizes the environmental hazards caused by paper billing and

physical transactions.

Another resident, Naseem Begum said that it is a direly needed step towards reducing the use of cash and promoting a more secure and efficient financial system.

Such steps bring ease and comfort in the lives of the general public and ensure a safe and secure payment system which are important at a time when societies are becoming cashless.

Another user of this online facility, Shagufta Mehmood who is a working woman said that today is the era of digitalization and all institutions and departments must adopt digital ways to compete internationally. Digitalization of such services which are accessed by the general public to perform their routine liabilities is essential to make their life easier and ensure transparency.

Amb Haque inaugurates Pakistan National Pavilion at Sichuan Expo

ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

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SCCI URGES GOVT TO REVIEW IMPOSITION OF BLENDED GAS POLICY IN KP

Monday, 30 October, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

The Department of Islamic Thought, History and Culture of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) will organize a three-day international conference on Islamic Finance from 1st November.

During the conference, the national and international speakers will present research papers on various Islamic finance systems, said a press release issued here Sunday. Founder Akhuwat Foundation, Dr. Amjad Saqib will grace the inaugural session as the chief guest while, Vice Chancellor AIOU, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood will preside over the session.

Dean, Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Prof. Dr. Mohyuddin Hashmi will host the event. Renowned economists will shed light on the topic of Islamic banking. Dr. Fawad Khalil from Edinburgh Napier University, UK and Dr. Usman Ghani, Director, Institute of Management Studies, Peshawar will be the speakers of the session.

Various panel discussions and working sessions will be held at the conference.

As per the vision of vice chancellor, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, different seminars/conferences and other educational activities are being organized continuously in the university for the guidance and awareness of the students and this conference is a continuation of this initiative.

BEIJING

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan's Ambassador in China, Moin ul Haque inaugurated Pakistan National Pavilion at the Sichuan Agriculture Expo in Chengdu, China Economic Net (CEN) reported. He was joined by Vice governor of Sichuan Province Hu Yun, Secretary Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Dr. Farheed Iqbal and Pakistan's Acting Consul General in Chengdu Agha Hunain Abbas Khan.

The Pavilion introduces the famous touristic sites in Pakistan and displays a number of the agriculture goods produced by the country.

More than a dozen Pakistani companies displayed their agricultural products here. And the Pavilion attracted great interest from the participants attending the Expo.

Earlier on the same day, the Ambassador participated in the Opening Ceremony of the 9th

Sichuan Agriculture Expo, where Pakistan is the Country of Honor.

In his address during the opening ceremony, the Ambassador highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and China, that are based on political trust, strategic communication, and practical cooperation.

He also highlighted the close cooperation between Pakistan and Sichuan, including through sister

province and city collaborations.

Pakistan’s participation in the Expo will inject impetus to the ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and China in the agriculture sector.

Recently five important agriculture SPS protocols have been finalized between the two sides, giving Pakistan access to a market of USD 30 billion in cooked beef, dairy, chilies, cherries and other livestock products.

SHANGHAI

STAFF REPORT

In a bid to give full play to the spillover effect of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) to promote Pakistani jewelry culture, Aqeel Chaudhry, founder of Pakistani jewelry band WINZA, who has been residing in China for the past 22 years, organized a grand Pakistani jewelry brand preview of the CIIE at New World DAIMARU, one of the first class shopping malls in Shanghai.

The preview drew attendees including potential buyers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts, Gwadar Pro reported on Sunday.

Aqeel Chaudhry showcased a stunning collection of traditional and contemporary Pakistani jewelry, highlighting the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the country. Guests were captivated by the display of exquisite necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings, all reflecting the diversity and beauty of Pakistani jewelry. The sixth CIIE will be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center?Shanghai? from November 5 to 10, which is the fifth time for Li Long to participate in the CIIE. Recognizing the immense potential of the Chinese market, Aqeel has seized the opportunity to introduce Pakistani jewelry to a wider audience.

Private airline cancels several flights LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

A private airline, SereneAir on Sunday cancelled several flights after an aircraft developed a technical fault at Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore.

The flight operation of SereneAir was disrupted and four domestic flights were cancelled by the private airline. The passengers protested against the cancellation of the Karachi-Peshawar flight after an hours-long delay.

The spokesperson said that an aircraft developed a technical fault at the Lahore airport which led to the cancellation of the Karachi-Peshawar and Peshawar-Karachi flights.

It added that spare parts of the aircraft would be sent from Karachi to Lahore and the repair work would be completed tonight.

Moreover, the private airline also cancelled two more flights from Lahore to Karachi and Islamabad to Karachi. Earlier in the month, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) cancelled 650 flights in the past 13 days due to the unavailability of fuel.

The national flag carrier is facing arguably its worst crisis in history as Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has cut the fuel supply over unpaid dues.

Six Karachi-Islamabad flights including PK-300, 368, 308, 301, 369 and 309 have been cancelled.

Karachi-Lahore bounds flights PK306, 307, 503, 504, 536 AND 537 have also been cancelled by the national flag carrier amid fuel woes.

Apart from domestic, eight international flights from Karachi to Damam and Islamabad to Dubai have also been cancelled.

Sources said the PIA will operate 15 flights today, while the flight operations will return to normalcy from tomorrow after fuel supply from Pakistan States Oil.

Korean CG recalls how Pakistan assisted his country with 5 years development plan: CG KARACHI

STAFF REPORT

Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori said that Pakistan and the Republic of Korea have a long-lasting friendship and it will grow more he was speaking as a chief guest at the Korean Foundation Day reception hosted by Mr. Yi Sung-ho, Consul General of the Republic of Korea at a local hotel.

It was attended by diplomats from various Countries, high government officials, businessmen, industrialists, a large number of Korean Nationals based in Karachi, and the elite of the City.

The Sindh Governor further said that it was my pleasure to attend the Korean National Day receptions in Islamabad and as well as in Karachi as a chief guest.

The Consul General of the Republic of Korea (ROK) in Karachi Yi Sung-ho in his speech said that Korea and Pakistan have maintained close relations in many areas. He said the mutual trade and cooperation between the two countries goes back decades

when Pakistan assisted Korea with its 5-Year Development Plan.

Sindh Governor Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori attended the reception as the chief guest. Both Countries' National Anthem were played cake-cutting ceremony was also held to mark the 4355th anniversary of National Foundation Day of Korea.

Korean CG said We are gathered here to mark the 4355th anniversary of National Foundation Day of Korea. It is the day when Dangun, our national father, spread the ideology of wide benefits people, and opened the sky for Korean people,” Yi Sung-ho said.

The Korean Consul General said this year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and Pakistan.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relationships in 1983, Korea and Pakistan have maintained close relations in many areas.

He said Pakistan assisted Korea with its 5-Year Development Plan and in return, the Korean government is contributing to the social and economic development of Pakistan via economic development cooperation fund

(soft loan) or official development assistance (grant aid). This year, approximately $48 million is being spent on 12 projects.

At present, over 30 Korean companies are already operating in Pakistan, and more companies are looking to enter Pakistan, he said. Under the employment permit system yearly 4,000 Pakistani people can get jobs in Korea. Global Korea scholarship enables many Pakistani students to study in Korea year for higher education, he added.

He said that Korean people have continued their history for half of the millennium, overcoming numerous trials with a strong spirit and indomitable will to become the Republic of Korea today.

It has achieved phenomenal success both in economy and democracy. It is praised as the first country in the world to go from receiving aid to giving aid.

“Our brilliant culture, which has blossomed over a long history, has become a culture that people around the world can see and enjoy together under the name of K-Culture,” he said.

“As a responsible member of the international community, Korea is taking the lead in resolving global issues. And to pioneer a new future, we are working to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan. The theme of Busan Expo: Transforming our world, Navigating

toward a better future is powerfully simple: we are here not only to show the world as it is but to shape it as we wish it to be. Having achieved the near impossible, we wish to share our experience with the rest of the world,” he said.

Monday, 30 October, 2023

Two footballers CASH DEMAND SURGES IN PAKISTAN AMIDST abducted from Sui recovered GLOBAL SHIFT TO DIGITAL PAYMENTS

PRAYER TIMINGS

NEWS

A

PESHAWAR

AZIZ BUNERI

MID the global shift toward digital payments and cryptocurrencies, Pakistan is experiencing a noteworthy counter-trend – a surge in the demand for cash.

Aurangzeb Kakar, a director at the State Bank of Pakistan said that the Cash in Circulation (CinC) reached a substantial Rs9.2 trillion ($32 billion) by June 2023, equivalent to 30% of the total money supply (M2) and approximately 11% of the national GDP. The heavy reliance on cash, coupled with government borrowing, results in elevated interest rates for the government, raising concerns about the sustainability of Pakistan’s debt.

However, policymakers have not given adequate attention to the growing

CinC problem. Government tax measures have contributed to the demand for cash, with withholding taxes on non-cash transactions and cash withdrawals leading to a shift away from bank deposits.

The distinction between tax filers and

Maulana Tariq Jamil’s son ‘dies of gunshot wound’ LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Prominent religious scholar Maulana Tariq Jameel’s son Asim Jamil died on Sunday after sustaining a gunshot wound to his chest at his farmhouse in Tulamba area of Khanewal district. Dr Asif Imam of the Tulamba Hospital confirmed the death.

According to sources, Asim was exercising at his gym located in the farmhouse while a guard was standing alert for his security. Asim took the pistol from the guard and shot himself in the chest, they added.

The tragic news was shared by the scholar himself on social media platform X, requesting prayers for the departed soul. “My son Asim Jameel passed away today in Tulamba. This accidental death has made the atmosphere sombre. All of you are requested to remember us in your prayers on this sad occasion. May Allah grant my son a high place in Jannatul Firdous,” he said.

According to Mian Channu Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Mohammad Saleem, Asim was taken to Talamba Rural Health Centre, where he was pronounced dead.

The body is being moved to the family’s home from the health centre, he added.

A statement from the Punjab police spokesperson said the cause of death appeared to be a “gunshot”.

Talking to media Multan Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sohail Chaudhry said Asim “shot himself in the chest” in a gymnasium at his home. “According to the family, Asim committed suicide,” the RPO said.

The RPO further said the police had acquired CCTV footage that “confirms he can be seen shooting himself in the chest”. “We are sending the footage for forensic analysis,” he added. RPO Sohail said Asim was suffering from mental illness as he had been using mental health medicine for a long time.

He was married in a Niazi family of Khanewal.

The sources said Maulana Tariq Jamil had built AlHussain School in Tulamba, which was managed and run by Asim’s wife, who was also the principal of the school, while Asim had neither completed matriculation nor had he received any religious education. Asim had divorced his wife two years ago, had no children and was suffering from mental health problems, they added. Meanwhile, Punjab IG Police Dr Usman Anwar has taken notice of the incident and sought a report from the Multan RPO. He said that the cause of death should be determined in the light of evidence and forensic report.

According to Punjab Police, DPO Khanewal and senior police officers are present at the spot and evidence are being collected.

The death of Jamil’s son prompted political and influential personalities to extend condolences. Former Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervaiz Ashraf offered his heartfelt condolences on the unfortunate demise of Asim Jamil.

In his message, he prayed for the elevation of the departed soul, invoking the Almighty to grant solace and fortitude to Maulana Tariq Jamil and his grieving family during this challenging period.

non-filers has exacerbated the situation, pushing funds into the informal economy to evade taxes, often invested in real estate, agriculture, and non-banking assets.

Kakar emphasized that limited access to banks, high transaction costs, and

informality in the wholesale and retail sector, which is the largest segment of the economy, have led to tax avoidance.

Addressing the growing CinC issue requires a comprehensive policy response.

Pakistan can draw lessons from countries like Indonesia, Mexico, and Turkey, which have consistently kept CinC below 5% of GDP. Pakistan has the opportunity to harness its extensive database through Nadra and promote digitization. Additionally, data repositories like the Credit Information Bureau (CIB) can enhance the documentation of the economy.

Taking steps to address the undocumented real estate market, control foreign currency and gold storage, and regulate informal credit practices are crucial for reducing CinC. While demonetisation could be a potential solution, it should be executed carefully to minimise disruptions, especially for the rural unbanked population with limited digital connectivity.

No compromise on ‘single-document regime’ for travel on Pak-Afghan border-crossings: Achakzai QUETTA/ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Balochistan Caretaker Minister for Information Jan Achakzai on Sunday said that introduction of “single-document regime” on all international border crossing with Afghanistan was the decision of the state of Pakistan and its implementation would be ensured.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, Jan Achakzai declared that travel on all international border crossing with Afghanistan would be on visa and passport, saying: “Protesters of sit-in staged in Chaman should know that “singledocument regime” would be implemented” at all costs.

“We are ready to provide all the facilities for promotion of border

trade between the two neighbouring countries – Pakistan and Afghanistan, but no compromise would be made on single-document regime,” the minister asserted.

Achakzai said that “single-document regime” was compulsory for travel on border-crossings in all countries, hence, Pakistan also decided in the best interest of the country to implement “single-document regime” in order to monitor travelling along the border effectively.”

It is pertinent to mention that Afghans were travelling to Pakistan without visa at certain bordercrossings using “Tazkirah”, a special permit used for decade under the British era easement rights which aimed at facilitating dividing families and tribes on both sides when Britain demar-

cated the border known as Durand Line. In order to get rid of British era system, government of Pakistan decided to implement a “single-document regime” to regulate the movement of people and goods on all international border crossing with Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, Tuesday is the deadline for the illegal foreign nationals to leave the country and only two days are left in its expiry.

According to official sources said Sunday, the government will not extend the deadline given for voluntary repatriation of all illegal foreign nationals, including Afghans, to their respective countries.

Geo-fencing and geo-mapping of the illegal residents has also been completed by the law enforcing agencies.

India thrash England by 100 runs in World Cup clash LUCKNOW

AGENCIES

India thrashed England by 100 runs maintaining their unbeaten streak in ICC World Cup 2023.

India is the only unbeaten team in the tournament but their vaunted batting line-up faltered against England’s spirited bowling attack with Rohit alone managing a half-century.

LIVE SCORE India 229/9 England 129 overs 50 overs 34.5 Put into bat, the hosts slumped to 40-3 in the 12th over before Rohit forged a 91-run partnership with KL Rahul (39) to arrest their slide.

Suryakumar Yadav contributed a breezy 49 down the order and India’s tailenders scored some useful runs towards the end to take them past the 225-mark.

David Willey was the pick of the English bowlers claiming 3-45, including the prized wicket of Virat Kohli, who fell for a nine-ball duck.

England’s title defence is only mathematically alive since they slumped to the bottom of the points table following four defeats in five matches.

Earlier, England won the toss and decided to field

first against India in the all-important world match for the visitors.

INDIA Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

ENGLAND Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (c)(wk), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, David Willey, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood Angry Bangladesh fan hits himself with shoe Netherlands defeated Bangladesh by 87 runs in the ICC World Cup 2023 on Saturday at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

After the loss, one of the Bangladeshi fans was seen hitting himself with a shoe. He was furious with his team’s performance and took out his shoe to hit on his face.

In Kolkata, the Netherlands handed Bangladesh its fifth straight loss in the tournament when it recorded an emphatic 87-run win. It was the Netherlands’ second big victory against a test-playing nation after it had upset high-flying South Africa by 38 runs at Dharamsala in a rain-reduced game.

Two soldiers martyred, two terrorists killed in Awaran fire exchange: ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Two soldiers of Pakistan Army embraced martyrdom and two terrorists were killed on Sunday during an exchange of fire with terrorists in Khoro area of Balochistan’s Awaran district, the military said. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistani troops effectively engaged the terrorists' location and resultantly two terrorists were also killed while two others sustained injuries.

However, during intense exchange of fire, 37-year-old Naib Subedar Asif Irfan, a resident of district Okara and 22-year-old Sepoy Irfan Ali, a resident of district Sargodha, having fought gallantly embraced martyrdom. The statement said that sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area. Security Forces are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve, the statement further said. STAFF REPORT

FAJR SUNRISE

ZUHR

ASR MAGHRIB ISHA

5:40

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DERA BUGTI

STAFF REPORT

Two local football players abducted from Sui in September have been recovered, police said on Sunday.

Unidentified armed men had kidnapped the footballers on September 09, officials said. It is to be mentioned here that six footballers were abducted in Dera Bugti’s Jani Bair area while they were travelling to Sibi to participate in the qualifying round of the ‘All Pakistan Chief Minister Gold Cup’ football tournament.

Armed men intercepted the vehicles in which the players were travelling and took the footballers away at gunpoint, sources said. Five of the six players were identified as Aamir Bugti, Faisal Bugti, Sohail Bugti, Yasar Bugti and Sheraz Bugti.

Four out of six abducted footballers were rescued by the law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in an operation on September 29.

Joint efforts of the LEAs, local administration and the provincial government bore fruit to recover the abducted footballers.

The recovered footballers were safely reached their homes. The authorities said that the two remaining footballers will also be rescued.

Earlier in the month, Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti said that an operation was underway in Balochistan’s Dera Bugti to recover six footballers, who were kidnapped while on their way to Sibi.

Over 600,000 leave Pakistan in search of better life this year ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

In Pakistan, a concerning trend has emerged as there is a notable surge in the number of well-educated youths choosing to leave the country in pursuit of a higher quality of life. In this year alone, the figures are startling, with more than 600,000 young individuals opting to venture abroad. These ambitious individuals include 6,351 engineers, 2,580 doctors, and 1,194 teachers among various other professionals.

According to media reports, travel agents who facilitate the departure of these aspiring expatriates have emphasized that the actual numbers may be even higher than reported.

They claim that the number of young people seeking opportunities overseas might not merely be double the reported figures but could be as much as quadruple.

Sociologists are viewing this mass exodus of educated youth with concern, though some suggest it may be a momentary phenomenon.

Regardless, they emphasize the urgency for the government to take immediate measures to address the situation and provide incentives for these talented individuals to stay and contribute to the development of the nation. The outflow of skilled professionals can have long-term negative consequences for the country’s growth and development, and thus, timely action is imperative. The government is now under pressure to devise strategies that will encourage these youths to stay, invest their skills locally, and be part of the nation’s progress.

Two more PTI leaders jump ship LAHORE/RAWALPINDI STAFF REPORT

Two more leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) – Wajiha Qamar and Chaudhry Sajid Mehmood – on Sunday formally announced quitting the party.

During a press conference convened at the Rawalpindi Press Club, Ch Sajid Mehmood narrated his reasons for parting ways with PTI and expressed deep concerns about the party’s anti-establishment stance, asserting that it had adversely impacted the nation and had detrimental effects on the country’s economy. He strongly condemned the incidents of May 9, saying that the tragic event had left the entire nation in mourning. He called upon the judiciary to expedite the process of bringing the perpetrators of the May mayhem to justice.

Expressing his regrets, he offered an apology to PTI voters and underscored his belief that the party’s current narrative was unsustainable and indefensible.

Subsequently, he declined to respond to further inquiries. Meanwhile, former PTI Member of the National Assembly (MNA), Wajiha Qamar, announced her decision to join Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). During a meeting with PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif, she formally declared her alignment with the party.

She received a warm welcome from the former prime minister, who congratulated her on joining the ranks of the PML-N.

Muslim rulers must provide military aid to Palestinians in Gaza: Siraj ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Thousands attended Jamaat-e-Islami’s (JI) Gaza Solidary March in Islamabad on Sunday wherein Jamaat-e-Islami Chief Sirajul Haq reiterated unwavering solidarity and support for Palestinian brethren, condemning Israeli atrocities.

JI Pakistan Ameer Sirajul Haq and several political and religious leaders addressed the Gaza Solidary March which was scheduled to be staged before the US Embassy, however, the authorities blocked the routes citing security concerns.

The administration has not allowed entry of the rally participants to the Srinagar Highway, a high-security zone. Later, the JI staged its protest at Aabpara Chowk.

The participants of the public rally also heard the special message of the Hamas top leader Ismail Haniyeh.

Sirajul Haq said that Muslim rulers have a duty to save Gaza people and provide mil-

itary and humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. The JI chief said that Pakistani nation donated over Rs1 billion to the Palestinians.

He said that Hamas fighters proved that war cannot be won by the technology and advanced weaponry but by the power of faith. He added that the Muslim rulers would be held accountable by their people if they failed to help Palestinians in Gaza.

The JI had previously announced a demonstration in front of the US embassy in Islamabad to protest Israel’s bombing of Palestinians in Gaza, home to over two million people who have endured a relentless Israeli onslaught that claimed the lives of over 8,000 innocent civilians.

Siraj affirmed that as long as the United States supported Israel, they would stand by the people of Gaza against the Jewish state.

He extended heartfelt congratulations to the Gaza March participants, praising their dedication to the cause and emphasising the significance of their actions, which he described as a noble path ordained by Allah.

The JI Ameer said that they stand sideby-side with the Muslims in Gaza, saying the JI had announced a protest in front of the US Embassy but the US deputy secretary contacted the Pakistani rulers to stop the protest.

The JI chief blamed the Muslim rulers for not fulfilling their responsibilities towards the Palestinians. He slammed the silence of the international community over the illegal occupation of Israel on Palestinian land, the martyrdom of over 250,000 Palestinians and the targeting of hospitals in Gaza.

He said that JI workers faced police baton charge and arrests before the protest.

Haq announced to continue the series of protests against the Israeli barbaric moves against Palestinians across the country until an end to the war.

He mentioned the names of Kashif Chaudhry, Nasrullah Randhawa, and other activists who had reportedly been subjected to baton charge. He alleged their political posters were torn on the streets of Islamabad, raising questions about the motivations behind such actions.

He was referring to Saturday’s incident when leaders and members of JI were apprehended for refusing to relocate and move away from diplomatic enclave in Islamabad

Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk

where they were gearing up for Sunday’s Gaza March before the US embassy.

Concluding his address, Sirajul Haq announced to hold Gaza March in Lahore on November 19. He said that a million Pakistanis would participate in Lahore’s march to express solidarity with the people of Gaza.

Yesterday, the Islamabad police and Frontier Constabulary (FC) confiscated the stage, sound systems, and other equipment from the city’s red zone, effectively preventing the preparations for the Gaza Solidarity March.

During this operation, leaders and members of JI resisted the authorities, resulting in the arrest of several activists and leaders, including the party’s Islamabad Amir, Nasrullah Randhawa.

Additionally, JI’s Information Secretary Qaiser Sharif disclosed that Nasrullah Randhawa and all associated activists who were detained on Saturday had been released, and the items confiscated in connection with the Gaza March were returned by the Islamabad administration.