Monday, 22 December, 2025 | 1 Rajabul Murajjab, 1447
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Rs 50.00 | Vol XVI No 167 | 48 Pages | Islamabad Edition
PAKISTAN–IRAQ VOW TO UNLOCK ECONOMIC POTENTIAL, DEEPEN STRATEGIC COOPERATION g
PRESIDENT ZARDARI, IRAQI COUNTERPART AGREE TO UNITED FRONT AGAINST EXTREMISM, PLEDGING JOINT FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM, NARCO TRADE
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BAGHDAD/ISLAMABAD Staff report
AKISTAN and Iraq on Sunday reaffirmed their resolve to fight extremism, terrorism and narco trade while enhancing bilateral cooperation, as President Asif Ali Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s firm support for Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity, and renewed Islamabad’s commitment to Iraq’s stability, prosperity and democratic progress. The reaffirmation came during a meeting between President Zardari and his Iraqi counterpart, President Dr Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, in Baghdad, according to a statement issued by the President’s Office. Upon arrival at the Baghdad
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ZARDARI REAFFIRMS UNWAVERING SUPPORT FOR IRAQ’S SOVEREIGNTY, UNITY, OFFERING SKILLED MANPOWER AND DIGITAL GOVERNANCE SUPPORT
Palace, President Zardari was accorded a guard of honour. An official welcoming ceremony was held, followed by a one-on-one meeting between the two presidents and delegation-level talks. President Zardari, who is expected to meet senior Iraqi leadership during the visit, arrived in Iraq on Saturday night and was received at Baghdad airport by Iraq’s Culture Minister Ahmed Fakkak Al-Badrani. According to the statement, President Zardari received a guard of honour upon arrival at the palace, where he was also scheduled to attend a luncheon and hold a one-onone meeting with his Iraqi counterpart. The two leaders expressed satisfaction over the growing diplomatic momentum generated through recent high-level exchanges.
“The president noted that current levels of bilateral trade do not reflect the true potential of PakistanIraq economic, cultural and security relations,” the statement said. “He highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture and defence production sectors, in addition to information technology, construction, pharmaceuticals and related industries.” resident Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to support Iraq’s reconstruction and development efforts through the provision of skilled and semi-skilled manpower under the existing Memorandum of Understanding on manpower transmission, according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Press Information Department (PID).
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CdF Munir flags afghan role in ttp infiltration, asserts state authority on jihad RAWALPINDI Staff report
Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir has said that a significant majority of banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) formations infiltrating into Pakistan consist of Afghan nationals, revealing that around 70 per cent of what
he termed Fitna al-Khawarij elements entering the country are Afghans, underscoring serious concerns over cross-border militancy and regional security. The defence forces chief made these remarks while addressing the National Ulema Conference held in Islamabad on December 10. While official details of his address re-
mained limited, excerpts and video clips of the Field Marshal’s speech were aired by television channels on Sunday, drawing wide attention to his candid observations. Referring to the persistent security challenge, Field Marshal Asim Munir questioned the continued use of Afghan soil by militant groups targeting Pakistan.
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02 NEWS
KP CM AFRIDI SAYS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OWES PROVINCE OVER RS4,500B
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CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF FUNDS, HIGHLIGHTS MERGED DISTRICTS, EDUCATION AND ENERGY AS PRIORITIES PROFIT
STAFF REPORT
HYBER Pakhtunkhwa is yet to receive its full constitutional share of federal funds, Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi said on Saturday, adding that outstanding dues from the federal government have crossed Rs4,500 billion. Speaking at the annual Parents’ Day ceremony at Girls Cadet College Mardan, Afridi said the arrears include hydel power dues, net hydel profits, and promised allocations for merged districts. He noted that
while the merged districts have been administratively integrated, their financial integration remains incomplete, calling it a violation of the Constitution. Afridi demanded the federal government release Rs850 billion immediately, saying access to these funds would allow greater investment in energy, education, health, and social sectors. He said KP provides the country’s cheapest electricity, while expensive federal-level agreements have caused sharp increases in power tariffs. The chief minister said KP faces challenges greater than other provinces, but human development and public welfare re-
main the government’s top priorities. During the ceremony, Afridi distributed medals, trophies, and certificates to cadets excelling in academics and co-curricular activities. He reviewed a march past presented by the students and praised Girls Cadet College Mardan for enrolling students from KP, other provinces, and overseas Pakistani families, reflecting confidence in the institution’s standards. Afridi announced the establishment of a Girls Cadet College in District Khyber and pledged funds for the timely completion of the under-construction Mardan campus. He reiterated the provincial government’s com-
mitment to supporting quality education across KP. On the broader economy, Afridi cited political instability, flawed economic policies, rising inflation, declining industrial and agricultural output, and growing unemployment, saying these factors have weakened Pakistan’s economy and forced millions to seek opportunities abroad. He said Pakistan’s progress depends on constitutional supremacy, fair distribution of resources, and political stability. Afridi urged political stakeholders to set aside personal differences and vendettas for national interest and reaffirmed that the provincial
Pakistan’s kinno exports fall short of potential as costs and border curbs bite g
Monday, 22 December, 2025 | ISLAMABAD
government will continue efforts to build a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
PIA aircraft makes emergency landing after mid-air pressure issue LAHORE
NEwS DESk
INDUSTRY WARNS OF BILLIONS IN LOSSES AND MASS UNEMPLOYMENT DESPITE STRONG 2025–26 CITRUS CROP PROFIT
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan is expected to export only 400,000 to 450,000 tonnes of kinno during the 2025–26 season, significantly below its estimated export potential of 700,000 to 800,000 tonnes, as high freight charges, border disruptions and weak government facilitation continue to weigh on the citrus sector. Industry sources said exports during the 2024–25 season were limited to around 350,000 to 400,000 tonnes, with Russia, Indonesia, the UAE, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia and Central Asian states remaining the main destinations. For the current season, exporters anticipate a marginal improvement due to better fruit size and quality in Sargodha and surrounding areas, but structural bottlenecks are expected to cap overall volumes. Former MPA and large kinno grower Faisal Cheema said the sector was facing a familiar paradox of abundance without access to markets. He noted that while this year’s crop was outstanding in both quantity and quality, exporters were unable to capitalise on it. He cited ongoing
Pakistan’s fish exports rise 7.03%, meat exports grow by 7.12% in 5MFY2025-26
Afghan border restrictions and the recent goods transporters’ strike, which disrupted the availability of reefer containers and led to missed export orders. Prices in the domestic market have declined sharply amid weak demand. At the start of the Dubai export season, large size kinno sold for Rs120 to Rs125 per kg and smaller fruit for Rs90 to Rs95 per kg, rates that held until November 30. By December 10, prices fell to Rs100 per kg for large fruit and Rs70 per kg for small. Between December 10 and 15, factory rates dropped further to Rs85 to Rs90 per kg for large fruit and Rs55 to Rs60 per kg for small. After December 15, facto-
Tarar, Tajik culture minister discuss digital media and cultural ties g
M A NIAZI
The massacre in Sydney at Bondi Beach was ugly, and I’m not talking about what the Australian cricket team has done to England’s, though a three-nil lead in the Ashes, after three Tests, making it a dead rubber with two games to play, is about as bad as it gets. A beach might seem an odd place to have a Hannukah picnic, but then, it seems Australian Jews are that little bit different. Of course, Australians are probably going to celebrate Christmas at Bondi Beach, safe from interruption, and unfazed by the killing 15 people. I wonder how anti-Semitic Australians are? They recently recognised Palestine, which is about as anti-Semitic you can get these days. But there was a curious rightness about how it was hotly debated whether the perpetrators of the massacre were Indians or Pakistani. Indeed, there was a cricketing feel to the debate, as if the rivalry on the field was being carried over to the massacre. Look, it’s quite simple. The massacre
ISLAMABAD MEETING DURING TAJIK CULTURAL WEEK HIGHLIGHTS PUSH FOR FORMAL COOPERATION AGREEMENTS PROFIT
Exports of fish and fish products from Pakistan saw a 7.03% increase in the first five months of the current financial year, totaling over 75,766 metric tons worth $173.75 million, compared to 75,336 metric tons valued at $162.33 million during the same period last year, according to data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). In addition to fish exports, meat and meat products also experienced growth. Exports of meat and meat preparations rose by 7.12%, reaching 47,990 metric tons valued at $215.94 million, up from 47,507 metric tons worth $201.59 million in the previous year. Fresh fruit exports for the period from July to November 2025 amounted to 240,297 metric tons, generating $149.92 million in revenue, compared to 220,574 metric tons worth $132.58 million during the same period last year. On the import side, rice imports saw a significant decrease of 49.24%, with 1.425 million metric tons valued at $769.29 million imported in FY2025-26, compared to 2.377 million metric tons worth $1.515 billion last year. However, the overall food group imports increased by 28.33%, reaching a total of $3.85 billion in the first five months of FY2025-26, up from $2.998 billion during the same period last year.
CITY NOTES
A Pakistan International Airlines flight narrowly avoided an accident after experiencing a sudden drop in cabin pressure shortly after departure, according to a report aired by ARY News on Sunday. The incident involved PIA flight PK-860, which was operating from Jeddah to Lahore, when a loss of cabin pressure caused a shortage of oxygen soon after takeoff. Oxygen masks were automatically deployed above passenger seats, while cabin crew assisted travelers in wearing them and worked to keep passengers calm. The pilot maintained control of the aircraft and coordinated with air traffic control before diverting the flight to Dammam Airport. After receiving clearance, the aircraft made a safe emergency landing. Passengers were moved to the airport lounge and were later flown to Lahore on an alternative flight. The incident occurred on Friday night, and PIA authorities said all required facilities and support were provided to affected passengers. Earlier this year, another PIA flight heading to Dubai from Lahore made an emergency landing after a bird strike shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, carrying 150 passengers, landed safely after the pilot contacted air traffic control and requested immediate clearance.
Abid Sher Ali stresses collective role in maintaining peace FAISALABAD
PROFIT
STAFF REPORT
ries were offering as little as Rs75 per kg for large fruit and Rs35 to Rs40 per kg for small, despite limited buyer interest. Traders are currently selling kinno to factories at around Rs1,400 to Rs1,500 per maund, according to industry estimates. Factory operations have slowed sharply, with daily pickings reduced from ten to five, resulting in repeated topping of orchards and damage to trees. Sajid Tarar, former president of the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, warned that border closures had paralysed the export chain. He said more than 100 factories did not open at all due
to the Afghan border issue, while many of the remaining units were already operating at half capacity. Nearly 50 factories have since shut down, with several others nearing closure, putting up to 800,000 jobs at risk if the situation persists. He also pointed to growing instability in the Afghan market, noting that while some fruit had been routed through Iran, rising tensions had created hostility towards Pakistani products. He cited an incident in which a banana consignment was damaged in Afghan markets. Cold storage facilities across Sargodha are reported to be 80 to 90 per cent full, placing kinnow worth millions of dollars at risk of spoilage. Growers estimate potential losses of Rs8 to Rs10 billion, with concerns that reduced farm income could also affect future crops such as wheat and sugarcane. Stakeholders have called on the government to urgently explore alternative export markets and routes, subsidise logistics, resolve border disputes and provide targeted support to exporters. Faisal Cheema said safeguarding kinno exports was essential for protecting farmers and strengthening the national economy.
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan and Tajikistan have agreed to deepen cooperation in cultural exchanges and digital media, as Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ataullah Tarar held talks with Tajik Minister for Culture Sattariyon Matlubkhon Amonzoda on Saturday. The meeting took place on the sidelines of Tajik Cultural Week, which is being held in Pakistan following an understanding reached during talks between Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Officials said cultural festivals provide an important platform for strengthening people to people ties between the two countries. During the discussions, the two sides reviewed bilateral relations and explored collaboration in digital media, promotion of media linkages, preservation of shared literary heritage and expansion of cultural cooperation. Tarar said Pakistan attaches great importance to cultural diplomacy and views digital media as a key instrument for public outreach, cultural harmony and the projection of positive narratives. He congratulated the Tajik side on the successful organisation of Tajik Cultural Week in Pakistan. Referring to historical links, the minister said Pakistan and Tajikistan share centuries old cultural and civilisational ties. He added that both sides had agreed to finalise formal agreements to strengthen cultural collaboration during the expected visit of the Tajik president
to Pakistan. Highlighting common literary traditions, Tarar said the poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal reflects intellectual harmony between the peoples of Pakistan and Tajikistan, while Persian poets are held in high esteem in both countries. The Tajik minister thanked Pakistan for its cooperation in organising the cultural event and said Tajikistan would continue close collaboration with Pakistan in cultural exchanges and digital media. The meeting was attended by Tajik Ambassador Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir, Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam, Secretary Information and Broadcasting Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil, and other senior officials.
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Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz central leader Senator Abid Sher Ali on Sunday said the maintenance of law and order and the promotion of religious harmony were a shared responsibility, praising the Faisalabad Peace Committee for consistently playing a constructive and exemplary role in this regard. He was addressing a peace seminar organised by the Peace Committee at the Municipal Corporation central hall, where he underscored the importance of lasting peace and brotherhood in the city. Senator Abid Sher Ali said that for a major industrial and commercial centre such as Faisalabad, peace and stability were essential, as they ensured national development, encouraged investment and strengthened social cohesion. He noted that any disruption to law and order could have wide ranging economic and social consequences. He said the Faisalabad Peace Committee had repeatedly demonstrated responsible conduct during challenging situations and had played a key role in preventing unrest by promoting interfaith harmony and mutual respect among different communities. The senator added that peace seminars of this nature sent a positive message to society and reminded citizens that despite differences in beliefs and opinions, they were united as one nation. He stressed that the responsibility for maintaining peace did not lie with the government or law enforcement agencies alone. Instead, he said, it required the collective efforts of citizens, communities and all schools of thought working together for the greater good. Addressing the seminar, Punjab Assembly member Tahir Jameel said the government was implementing comprehensive measures across the province to ensure law and order. He added that bringing representatives of all schools of thought onto a single platform was the need of the hour to promote understanding and harmony. Special prayers were later offered for national security, peace and stability, as well as for the progress and prosperity of Faisal-
Massacre at Bondi Beach was carried out by South Asian Muslims. Sajid Akram, 60, and his son, Naveed Akram, 30, carried out the massacre. Sajid, by the way, had married an Italian woman, so you had a sort of revival of the World War II alliance between Germany and Italy, where the Italians were drawn into killing off their Jews too. It was the half-Italian Naveed who caused the confusion, or rather the Internet did, orv rather some overenthusiastic netizens. They got onto Naveed Akram’s Facebook page, and identified him as a Pakistani. Problem is, of the 16 Naveed Akrams it throws at you before anyone from Sydney, 12 are from Pakistan, one from AJK, and three don’t identify where they’re from. Then you only get one from Western Australia (where the Ashes Test didn’t last two days), of about a thousand or so. They’re mostly Pakistani, though there’s a smattering from the UK, Greece, and the UAE. However, the majority don’t identify
their addresses. Anyway, an ex-colleague of Naveed’s said he was from India. The Indian government then reluctantly admitted that Sajid Akram had gone to Australia from Hyderabad in 1998. That means that, after the USA and Canada, Australia is the third country to be hit by Indian terrorism, though it has to be admitted that it wasn’t government terrorism. Indian PM Narendra Modi is not hearing good news these days. After the Bondi Beach debacle, Shubman Gill, that untrustworthy Sikh, has been dropped from the T20 team, but the low-caste Suryakumar Yadav has been retained as captain. No good can come of this. Modi has also got to work overtime to placate his Israeli friends, who would have noticed how many Jews had been killed by men of Indian origin. It isn’t just the number, but also how Indians had not been taught to love Jews. It was decidedly crazy, for those who died did not invade Gaza.
They had invaded Australia. And its decidedly skewed for an Indian immigrant to object to any other migrants. As a matter of fact, everyone in Australia except the Aborigines are quite recent migrants. Meanwhile, former Punjab CM Manzoor Wattoo passed away at 86. He had also been a minister in the PPP government of Yousaf Reza Gilani and Raja Pervez Ashraf, but I best remember him as a firm presiding
officer of the Punjab Assembly, a place he held for eight years, until he parlayed that position into the Chief Ministership. Now the Speakership seems virtually interchangeable with the Prime Ministership or Chief Ministership, but at the time, back in 1993, it was a novel development. It had been a long journey, and his memoirs are a model of clarity, mixing both the political and personal.
PAKISTAN, UK FORMALISE £35M GREEN COMPACT FOR CLIMATE ACTION
Monday, 22 December, 2025 | ISLAMABAD
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creasingly viable, strengthening the economic case for accelerating Pakistan’s energy transition. Nature-based solutions will also be prioritised, with large-scale mangrove restoration planned to protect coastal communities from storm surges and erosion while supporting biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Shaikh said mangroves act as natural shields against climate shocks and provide both environmental and economic benefits. Innovation and youth engagement form another key element of the Compact. The partnership envisages mentoring, technical assistance and access to investors for climate-smart startups and young innovators, with youth-led initiatives seen as central to Pakistan’s future climate response.
AGREEMENT FOCUSES ON CLEAN ENERGY, MANGROVES, CLIMATE FINANCE AND YOUTH-LED INNOVATION PROFIT
StAFF report
Pakistan and the United Kingdom have signed a £35 million climate partnership framework, the UK–Pakistan Green Compact, aimed at shifting bilateral cooperation from policy dialogue to on-ground implementation as climate risks intensify across South Asia. The agreement was recently signed in Islamabad by Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik and UK Minister for International Development Jennifer Chapman. Officials said the Compact seeks to
strengthen climate resilience, accelerate Pakistan’s clean energy transition and expand nature-based solutions, particularly mangrove restoration. According to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, the Compact is structured around five pillars: climate finance and investment, clean energy transition, nature-based solutions, innovation and youth empowerment, and adaptation and resilience. Under the framework, the UK will work with Pakistan to mobilise public and private climate finance, improve regulatory frameworks for green investment and develop a pipeline of bankable climate projects.
Mohammad Saleem Shaikh, media spokesperson and climate change policy advocacy specialist at the ministry, said the initiative represents a decisive move toward action-oriented cooperation. He said Pakistan’s exposure to floods, heatwaves and water stress makes effective implementation over the next decade critical. Clean energy is a core component of the partnership, with Pakistan aiming to expand solar and wind generation to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve energy security and stabilise electricity costs. Shaikh noted that declining global prices have made renewable energy in-
Country experiences widespread rain and snowfall as winter intensifies PESHAWAR newS DeSk
Rain and snowfall continued to affect large parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday, with temperatures dropping sharply across the province and intensifying winter chill, authorities said. Intermittent rain was recorded in Mingora and other parts of Swat, while snowfall persisted at several tourist destinations, including upper Kaghan, Siran, and Konsh valleys. Babusar Top reported over one foot of fresh snow.
Light drizzle was observed in Kohat and its surrounding areas, causing noticeable falls in temperature. Dera Ismail Khan received rainfall in both the city and nearby localities, adding to the cold conditions. Upper Dir also saw light showers after a prolonged dry spell, providing temporary relief from dry weather. In Karak, rain in the city and adjoining areas further intensified the cold. Mansehra experienced rainfall in the plains, while snowfall continued in higher-altitude areas. Haripur and Tehsil Ghazi reported
light rain, whereas Chaman and surrounding areas witnessed heavy rainfall that submerged several low-lying localities, disrupting normal life. Authorities advised residents and travellers to exercise caution as cold weather conditions persisted. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecast cold and dry weather across most districts of Sindh over the next 24 hours, with temperatures likely to fall further during the morning and night hours. Fog formation is expected in Sukkur,
Rohri, Shikarpur, Kashmor, Mohenjodaro, and adjacent areas during early morning or late-night hours. The weather office said primarily cold and dry conditions would dominate the province. Across the country, winter conditions were reported from northern highlands to southern plains, with authorities urging the public to take precautions, particularly in flood- or snow-prone areas. Travelers in mountainous regions were advised to monitor road conditions, as heavy snow and rain could disrupt transport and access.
Aseefa Bhutto inaugurates SICVD hospital in Nawabshah Naqvi, Talal Chaudhry review immigration process at Lahore airport LAHORE
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Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, along with Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, on Sunday visited Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore to review the immigration process for departing passengers. During the visit, the ministers examined immigration counters, monitored staff performance, and interacted with travelers to obtain direct feedback on the efficiency of immigration procedures. Interior Minister Naqvi praised the performance of an official of the Federal Investigation Agency deployed at an immigration counter and commended the officer for demonstrating professional conduct. At one point during the inspection, a passenger complained that his boarding had been closed due to delays in the checking process. Taking immediate notice, the interior minister directed the relevant authorities to facilitate the boarding of the passenger, who was traveling to Kuwait. Passengers present at the airport informed the ministers that the immigration process was being completed within minutes, describing the improved efficiency as a positive development.
NAWABSHAH
Monitoring report
First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari on Saturday inaugurated a purpose built Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases hospital in Nawabshah, extending free advanced cardiac treatment facilities to patients from Shaheed Benazirabad district, central Sindh, and adjoining areas. The newly inaugurated facility is part of the Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases network and marks the relocation of the cardiac unit previously operating at Peoples Medical University Hospital, Nawabshah. The shift to a dedicated building has significantly expanded the hospital’s capacity and service delivery. The Shaheed Benazirabad SICVD is a 55 bed state of the art cardiac hospital providing round the clock emergency services, primary angioplasty, and paediatric cardiac care, all free of cost. Officials said preparations were underway to introduce stroke intervention services at the facility in the near future to further broaden specialised treatment options. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari said strengthening public healthcare and ensuring equal access to quality treatment remained a core objective of the Sindh government. She said institutions such
as SICVD had become critical for patients from underserved and marginalised communities by offering timely medical care without financial burden and with dignity. She said the establishment of the new facility would help ensure that patients requiring specialised cardiac treatment receive services closer to their homes, reducing delays and improving health outcomes. The first lady also expressed gratitude to charitable individuals and organisations for their contributions to the project. She specifically acknowledged the philanthropic support of Chaudhry Mohammad Zafar Arain and Azeem Mughal, who donated the building for the hospital and committed further assistance for the construction of an upcoming surgical tower. She described their contribution as an example of shared responsibility in serving public welfare. Sindh Minister for Health Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho, speaking on the occasion, said the provincial government remained fully committed to strengthening public sector healthcare institutions. She described the Shaheed Benazirabad SICVD as a major addition to Sindh’s medical infrastructure aimed at reducing health disparities and ensuring access to quality cardiac care across the province. Executive Director of SICVD Prof
CDF Munir flags Afghan role in TTP infiltration, asserts state authority on jihad CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
“Is Afghanistan not spilling the blood of our Pakistani children?” he asked, recalling that Islamabad had repeatedly conveyed to the Afghan Taliban leadership the need to choose decisively between Pakistan and the TTP. Pakistan has consistently urged Kabul to prevent militants from using its territory for attacks across the border, an allegation Afghan authorities have denied.
Turning to regional security dynamics, the Field Marshal spoke about the four-day military confrontation with India in May, stating that Pakistan’s retaliatory operation, Bunyanum Marsoos, was marked by what he described as “divine help.” “We felt it,” he said, reflecting on the morale and resolve of the armed forces during the conflict. India had launched a series of strikes in the early hours of May 7, triggering the most serious escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours in decades. The
confrontation saw the use of fighter jets, missiles, artillery and drones by both sides, resulting in dozens of casualties before a ceasefire was agreed after four days. The escalation followed the April 22 attack on tourists in occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam, in which 26 people were killed. India blamed Pakistan for the incident without presenting evidence, a charge Islamabad strongly rejected, calling New Delhi’s narrative “replete with fabrications.” Field Marshal Asim Munir also spoke on
Jawaid Akbar Sial briefed the gathering on the expansion and performance of the institute’s network. He said SICVD had grown into the world’s largest free cardiac healthcare system, comprising 10 fully functional cardiac hospitals and an extensive Chest Pain Unit network across Sindh. He added that the new hospital represented a commitment to delivering timely, advanced, and completely free cardiac care at the doorstep of the people. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, senior government officials, healthcare professionals, and representatives of the SICVD network. Later, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also inaugurated road rehabilitation and expansion projects near Sultan Mori and Colonel Mori in the 60 Mile area of Shaheed Benazirabad district. The projects include the Mehran Highway from Bandhi to 60 Mile, the 3 Chak road at Colonel Mori, and the Bandhi Sultan Mori 3 Chak road. Addressing a separate gathering, the first lady said improving road infrastructure in rural areas remained a priority of the Pakistan Peoples Party. She said better roads facilitated access to education and healthcare, supported economic activity, and improved mobility for local communities.
ideological and religious themes, noting that among the world’s 57 Islamic countries, Pakistan had been granted the honour of being the protector of the Haramain Sharifain — Makkah and Madina. He drew historical parallels between Pakistan and the Islamic state established in Arabia 1,400 years ago, saying both were founded for the same purpose, in the same holy month of Ramazan, and involved the element of migration. Emphasising the primacy of the state in matters of faith and conflict, he stressed that in an Islamic state, only the state had the authority to declare jihad. “No one can issue a fatwa for jihad without the order, permission and will of those vested with authority,” he said, citing multiple verses from the Holy Quran to reinforce his message.
Finance advisor briefs Middle East fintech delegation on Pakistan’s economic reforms and digital expansion g
INVESTORS SHOWN PROGRESS ON MACROECONOMIC STABILITY, FISCAL REFORMS, DIGITAL PAKISTAN INITIATIVES, AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES PROFIT
StAFF report
Khurram Schehzad, advisor to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, on Saturday briefed a delegation of international fintech investors from the Middle East on Pakistan’s economic stabilisation efforts and ongoing fiscal reforms, the Finance Division said. The delegation was led by Dr John
Sfakianakis, Chairman of Fintech Solutions Holding and a globally recognised economist, and Kirill Smolin, CEO of the firm and expert in digital technologies and fintech. The visit was facilitated by Tech Avenue (Pvt.) Ltd., represented by CEO Obaid Ul Haq and Advisor to the Board Khuram Rahat. According to the Finance Division, Schehzad highlighted Pakistan’s improving macroeconomic stability, reform momen-
tum, and expanding digital investment landscape. He briefed investors on consistent policy implementation and structural reforms that have strengthened macroeconomic fundamentals and enhanced the country’s investment outlook. A central part of the discussion focused on the Government of Pakistan’s Digital Pakistan Vision, aimed at promoting financial inclusion and economic formalisation. The advisor outlined the Cashless/Digital
Pakistan initiative, structured around three pillars: innovation and adoption of digital payments, development of digital public infrastructure, and digitisation of government payments. These initiatives are supported by Raast, Pakistan’s instant payment system, enabling real-time, lowcost, and interoperable digital transactions nationwide. Schehzad also updated investors on financial sector modernisation, highlighting progress under the State Bank of Pakistan’s Retail Digital Banking initiative, which has introduced a dedicated regulatory framework aligned with international best practices.
NEWS 03
Speaking during her first official visit to Pakistan, UK Minister Jennifer Chapman highlighted the shared urgency of climate action, pointing to visible impacts such as melting glaciers and shrinking rivers. She warned that the cost of inaction would outweigh current investments and outlined UK support in renewable energy, ecosystem restoration, early-warning systems, climate budgeting and improving international investment flows into Pakistan. Shaikh described the Compact as a strategic turning point in Pakistan–UK climate relations, saying it goes beyond funding to focus on building durable systems, including early-warning mechanisms, community preparedness, clean energy markets and youth-driven innovation. He added that sustained implementation over the next ten years would be essential for Pakistan to meet its national climate targets. Officials said the Green Compact builds on the UK’s role as one of Pakistan’s largest development partners, with existing cooperation in education, health, governance and climate resilience, while introducing new mechanisms for private-sector engagement and academic collaboration.
Pakistan–Iraq vow to unlock economic potential, deepen strategic cooperation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
He also highlighted Pakistan’s capacity in medical services, financial expertise and digital governance, and expressed readiness to share technical experience, including in secure data management, to support institutional capacity-building in Iraq. Iraq has been striving to rebuild its economy and infrastructure after decades of conflict, including the 2003 US-led invasion and prolonged instability caused by sectarian violence and the fight against the Daesh group. Although security conditions have improved in recent years, large parts of the country continue to face damaged roads, power plants, hospitals and housing, requiring large-scale reconstruction and improved public service delivery. President Zardari underscored the importance of business-to-business engagement, reciprocal business delegations and the establishment of direct banking channels to facilitate trade and commercial activity, the Presidency said. During the meeting, the president also sought improved facilitation for Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iraq and expressed hope that the proposed memorandum of understanding on Zaireen management would be finalised and implemented at the earliest. The MoU aims to ensure orderly travel arrangements and address longstanding issues related to religious visits, the statement added. “The president also expressed his firm resolve to work with the Iraqi government to curb the illegal entry and overstay of Pakistanis who violate Iraqi law,” the statement said. “Both presidents also expressed their resolve to fight extremism, terrorism and narco trade and to enhance bilateral cooperation.” President Zardari congratulated the Iraqi leadership and people on the successful conduct of parliamentary elections and conveyed his best wishes for the smooth formation of the new government. “He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm support for Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity, and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to Iraq’s stability, prosperity and democratic progress,” the statement said. “The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening bilateral cooperation across political, economic and social domains and agreed to maintain close coordination at regional and multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, on issues of mutual interest,” it added. The Iraqi president appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting unity within the Islamic Ummah and acknowledged Islamabad’s historical support for the people of Palestine. Separately, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Muhammad Mudassir Tipu said President Zardari conveyed a goodwill message to the Iranian leadership while en route from Islamabad to Baghdad as his aircraft entered Iranian airspace. In a post on X, the ambassador said the message reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran, emphasising mutual respect and stronger relations between the two historic neighbours. He added that the president’s message coincided with Iran’s celebration of Yalda Night — a civilisational tradition symbolising hope, joy and compassion — noting that its spirit reflected the deeprooted social and cultural affinities shared by the two countries. He noted that easypaisa Digital Bank has been operational for nearly a year, while Mashreq Digital Bank has also commenced operations in Pakistan. Several other digital banks are advancing toward launch, further strengthening the country’s digital ecosystem. The briefing included Pakistan’s forward-looking initiatives in Blockchain, Web3.0, and Virtual Assets. Schehzad explained ongoing work on responsible regulatory frameworks and engagement with global platforms to support innovation while ensuring compliance and investor protection. The Finance Division said the investors expressed strong appreciation for the clarity of reforms and policy direction, noting that Pakistan’s integrated approach to macroeconomic stability, digital infrastructure, and emerging technologies offers compelling opportunities for long-term investment and strategic partnerships.
04 COMMENT
Monday, 22 December, 2025
The Shaky US-India Defence Deal
The convictions pile up
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The conviction of Imran Khan in a second Toshakhana case bring the May 9 cases nearer
Indis is now in the US orbit
HE conviction of PTI founder Imran and his wife Bushra Bibi in the second Toshakhana case, relating to the Bulgari necklace and watch sold by him and his wife after receiving it as a gift coincided with the conviction by an anti-terrorist court of several PTI leaders, including former Punjab Minister Dr Yasmeen Rashid, former Governor Umar Cheema and ex-Senator Ejaz Chaudhry of offences involving violent incidents on 9 May 2023. Mr and Mrs Khan were sentenced to 17 years each, on two separate charges, one of criminal breach of trust, and another of corruption. Mr Khan earlier had been convicted in another case involving Toshakhana gifts, which he is said to have sold instead of submitting to the Toshakhana. In this case, he is accused of having gifts undervalued, and then first buying them back and then selling them for a profit. That hsd led to a 14-year sentence. He has already been convicted in the cases mentioned at the time of his dismissal, such as the diplomatic cipher case, for which he got 10 years, the Al-Qadir University Trust case for which he got 14 years. However, he has not as yet been convicted in any case involving the May 9 protests, of which he is supposed to have been the mastermind. It does seem that his fear of being tried by a military court is receding, but that is more because civilian anti-terrorism courts are proving satisfied by the prosecution cases. His supporters hotly deny the charges against him, saying that they are all the result of a conspiracy against him. The Tehrik Tahaffuz Ain Pakistan, which held a conference on the same day as his conviction, decried how the Constitution was being violated. Mr Khan is said to have decided on a street movement for his freedom, and it is not known how he has reacted to the TTAP leaders of non-PTI parties for a political dialogue. So far, Mr Khan has insisted that the political parties cannot give anything. However, at this point, after everything has been thrown against him but the May 9 charges, he may have no option. He has also got to come to grips with the reality that his struggle has changed from one of returning to office, to one of remaining relevant. Such straws in the wind as the PTI’s inability to turn out crowds any longer, and the recent by-election results, do not bode well for the future.
HO would have thought that a few months after the USA’s economic blows, India would be shaking hands with it over a decade-long defense pact? Washington, once accusing New Delhi of fuelling Moscow’s war machine by buying cheap Russian oil, is now hailing it as a key strategic partner. The speed of this transformation is less diplomacy and more design. What’s being celebrated as cooperation feels more like containment. The USA has not built a bridge; it’s tightened the leash. By turning economic pressure into strategic persuasion, Washington has managed to pull India into its sphere of influence, not through trust, but through tactics. This carefully orchestrated shift was made official on October 31in Kuala Lumpur during the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting. India was represented by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who hailed the 10-year pact as a major step forward in technology, intelligence, and security cooperation. The USA, through Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, described the agreement as a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence, signalling growing strategic alignment between the two nations. Yet the broader picture tells a different story. Just months earlier, Washington had hit India with punishing tariffs on its exports, along with a 25 percent penalty on the purchase of Russian oil and arms. What is presented as a partnership of equals is, in reality, a deal forged under pressure, one that draws India closer to the US orbit while subtly limiting its freedom to act independently, raising questions about who truly gains from this “milestone” in bilateral relations. The deal may appear to be mutually beneficial, but its true focus is on Washington’s interests. Not long ago, both countries stood on opposite sides of a trade war, with Washington using tariffs and trade threats as leverage to bend New Delhi’s choices. A closer inspection reveals that the USA was not particularly concerned about India purchasing from Russia; what truly bothered them was that India was not buying from the USA. Under pressure from tariffs and trade threats, India unexpectedly signed a decade-long defence agreement, cloaked in words of “cooperation” and “strategic partnership.” In reality, the deal is less about trust and more about guiding India toward US weapons and technology, turning economic pressure into diplomatic praise. For India, this partnership may provide access
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to advanced technology and opportunities for joint exercises. Still, it also means aligning more of its strategic choices with Washington’s priorities, thereby tightening the USA’s influence over India’s strategic options. This is where the broader strategic picture comes into focus. The USA views China as a threat to its global influence, and a stronger, aligned India helps Washington maintain control over the Indo-Pacific region. By aligning New Delhi more closely with US defence and technology priorities, Washington gains a formidable partner to counter Beijing’s growing influence in the region. The deal exemplifies US tactics, pressuring partners when needed and revising agreements to serve its own interests, a pattern that has made trusting the USA quite risky, given its long history of unreliability, as evident from recent events like the Doha attack. For India, the deal might offer a boost in arms production and access to advanced technology, but it largely functions as a strategic leash in disguise. The benefits are carefully weighed to serve Washington, turning New Delhi into a convenient tool for the USA's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific. Instead of charting its own course, New Delhi risks becoming a supplier and enforcer for someone else’s agenda. The deal raises serious doubts not only about Washington’s intentions but also about New Delhi’s credibility as a regional player. The USA has a long history of making strategic promises that change whenever political priorities shift. South Asia has seen this before: in 1971, Washington assured that the Seventh Fleet’s Task Force 74 would support Pakistan, a fleet that never arrived. Perhaps it sank somewhere in the Bermuda Triangle, along with many of Washington’s forgotten promises. But India's reliability is not much better. Its defence and foreign policy often shift suddenly, and its
Ultimately, the pact is not about shared security but about two powers pursuing their own agendas, leaving South Asia to bear the consequences. And if history is any guide, when both partners lack credibility, the agreement itself is the first thing to be questioned
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
M. A. Niazi
shahzadi irruM
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RIOR to the 1971 war with India, the tri-service coordination was nonexistent resulting in weak jointness in military operation and a painful setback. The Pakistan Navy came to know the D-Day and H-Hour when the Army and the Air Force had already launched their operations. As a result, the PN could not take the initiative as it did in the 1965 war with India when it attacked an Indian coastal setup. Then the Indian Navy had to go on the defensive and anchored its aircraft carrier in the Bombay harbour. But in the 197i war, the Navy had to return its ships back to the Karachi harbour and suffered losses by the Indian air attacks. The three service chiefs operated on their own. They directly reported to the Ministry of Defence and the head of government. After the ceasefire, then President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto constituted a Commission headed by Chief Justice Hamoodur Rehman to inquire into the circumstances that resulted in the catastrophe of 1971 war. The Commission in its findings pointed out the lack of jointness in the tri-service coordination and recommended the setting up of a Joint Services Headquarters and the appointment of a Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). I was then serving as Communication Officer in GHQ. When I voluntarily appeared before the Commission to record my statement, and there was some discussion between Justice Hamoodur Rehman and a retired general who was assisting the Commission regarding the lack of tri-service coordination during the war. Then on the recommendations of the Commission, the Government introduced the Joint Staff (JS) Headquarters. A Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee was constituted which was to be headed by a chairman, a four-star general from the Army or equivalent from the Navy or the Air Force. However, the CJCSC was not vested with any command authority over the three services. He served as Principal Military Advisor to the Government on national security. The appointment was ceremonial and only that of a coordinator. With such a system in place, disagreements between the three services were inevitable, especially when
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Childhood on the streets
The future of successful combat is jointness
supremacy of the civilian government and civil-military relations was weak. Today’s conflicts are complex. Wars are fought simultaneously over land, sea, air, cyber and space. The recent conflict with India proved that precision strikes against the enemy targets were crucial to gain advantage. This can only be achieved with effective tri-service coordination, which is paramount to responding decisively to diverse and rapidly evolving threats. Only with jointness can the armed forces be enabled to acquire the capacity of joint planning, training and operating together. Mere coordination (as was before the 27th Amendment) was a loose system which lacked efficiency and effectiveness. Coordination merged with integration brings unity of effort which is so essential for an upper hand against the adversary. Creating the position of Chief of the Defense Forces will be instrumental in tri-service integration. Several countries having such setups are good examples. In UK the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) is the professional head of armed forces and the Principal Advisor to the government. It is the highest military appointment in UK. The CDS is based in the Ministry of Defense and works alongside the Permanent Under Secretary, the Ministry’s Senior Civil Servant. Almost similar arrangements are in Canada, India, China, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Euro-
Future wars will be multidomain involving cyber, space, hybrid, and AI assisted. Only a very close cooperation between the armed services will enable them to confront the ever-increasing dangers Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965
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Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I
pean Countries. In the USA the Chairperson of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) is responsible for cross-service coordination and does not have direct command but according to the US military doctrine, jointness is the key to success in military operations. There is seamless integration across all services. The system is synergetic. In Pakistan, for various reasons, like unstable governments, unprincipled politics, and the upper hand of the defence establishment, successive governments failed to create an integrated system of defence. As a result, the tri-service jointness remained ineffective. Creating the position of CDF, although a good strategic decision, is the first step in jointness. His terms of service should be laid down. For harmonious tri-service relationships, the CDF should not concurrently be the commander of the army, navy or air force. It should be a separate office. The previous Headquarters of the CJCSC should be upgraded to CDF Headquarters. For a close relationship between the three services, Deputy CDFs from the Navy and Air Force should be appointed. The system should be rotational among the three services. Most importantly, a comprehensive joint doctrine for tri-service planning and operations must be formulated. Future wars will be multidomain involving cyber, space, hybrid, and AI assisted. Only a very close cooperation between the armed services will enable them to confront the ever-increasing dangers. The writer is Distinguished Advisor Emeritus at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute Islamabad. He retired as a brigadier from the Pakistan Army. The views expressed in this article are his own and are not related to the Institute. Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545
The writer is Assistant Research Fellow at the Balochistan Think Tank Network, Quetta
Editor’s mail
27th Constitutional Amendment: Reforms in Armed Forces Command MohaMMad Yasin
record shows a pattern of backing away from commitments whenever domestic politics or strategic interests change. A clear example is New Delhi’s quick withdrawal from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) after negotiating with 15 countries, leaving partners unsure of India’s consistency and long-term seriousness. This tendency to pull out at the last minute makes India a hard country to trust in major agreements. When both sides have such histories, it is hard to believe this defence pact is based on trust, stability, or long-term responsibility. This mutual unreliability directly affects South Asia’s strategic landscape. For India, heavy reliance on the USA may weaken the strategic autonomy it has long claimed to protect, while trying to bolster its defence sector with a partner known for changing course when it benefits its interests. For Pakistan, the deal introduces new security concerns as India acquires more advanced capabilities, increasing pressure on Islamabad to adjust its own defence posture despite its tight financial situation. At the regional level, the agreement causes more harm than good. With Washington’s support, New Delhi may start acting more boldly and aggressively in South Asia, which only adds to the tension between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Considering that India’s military chief has described Operation Sindoor as just a “trailer,” a trailer which almost triggered a nuclear war, it raises a serious question: if Washington continues to empower India, can the world remain safe from such an increasingly aggressive state? Instead of fostering peace, this shift can make the region more unpredictable and increase the risk of a serious mistake from either side. Simultaneously, the deal grants India even more strategic space to act on its own terms, meaning that once its military strength grows, it may no longer be as dependent on Washington as the USA expects. In trying to cultivate a loyal partner, the USA may instead be creating a monster in South Asia, more powerful, independent, and potentially hostile to its own creator. Ultimately, the pact is not about shared security but about two powers pursuing their own agendas, leaving South Asia to bear the consequences. And if history is any guide, when both partners lack credibility, the agreement itself is the first thing to be questioned.
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EVERY city has them — children running errands, begging for coins or sleeping on sidewalks. Street children are among the most vulnerable members of our society, yet they often go unnoticed. These children, forced into survival at a tender age, face physical danger, malnutrition, lack of education and psychological trauma. Poverty, broken families, domestic violence and natural disasters are among the main causes pushing children to live on the streets. In Pakistan, thousands of children live without access to schools, proper healthcare or protection. Many fall prey to exploitation, child labour and crime, perpetuating a vicious cycle of poverty and vulnerability. Addressing this issue requires urgent collective action. Governments must strengthen social safety nets, implement child protection laws and ensure access to education. Civil society organisations and communities can provide shelters, vocational training, and counselling to help these children reintegrate into society. Awareness campaigns can also mobilise society to act responsibly toward these young citizens. Street children are not merely statistics — they are human beings with dreams, potential and the right to a safe childhood. Every effort to protect and empower them is a step toward a more compassionate and just society. IMRAN SHOUKAT TOBA TEK SINGH
Report or reminder?
WHAT new truths has the IMF’s 2025 Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment Report revealed that most Pakistanis had not always known, talked about or painfully endured. Were we truly unaware of the astronomical salaries, perks and pensions granted to judges and parliamentarians? Did we not notice thousands of luxury vehicles purchased with taxpayer money to comfort the bureaucratic bottoms? Were we oblivious to our leaders’ endless foreign junkets, essentially holidaying with family and friends at public expense? Were we blind to the non-stop barrage of shameless self-promotional ads on TV and in newspapers – proudly showcasing leaders who never contributed a single rupee of their own to the projects they claim credit for? Were we fast asleep when the Ministry of Information Technology billed Rs703 million for a two-day ‘Digital Foreign Direct Investment’ conference held on 29–30 April 2025? Were we collectively in a state of paralysis when we found out that SSWMB was siphoning off Rs3.2 billion every year from a single sanitation contract by stealing Rs22,000 from each worker’s monthly salary? Let us not fool ourselves. We have always known exactly how our greedy insatiable elites, in a million shameless ways, have been syphoning every single drop of resource for their own benefits. The IMF report offers no startling insight — except a loud echo of our own failings. We as citizens chose convenience over conscience and silence over standing up for the voiceless. Can we reverse this equation? NAEEM SADIQ KARACHI
Offline in Balochistan
DESPITE being the largest province of Pakistan, Balochistan is devoid of a reliable internet service. It goes without saying that a large number of people rely on the internet for online business, education and entertainment. However, the poor internet speed makes it very difficult for them to perform their tasks properly. Students cannot access educational resources available on the web, and businesses struggle to operate online. In today’s world, internet access is essential for growth, learning and business. Without it, people are unable to develop their skills or access important information through platforms like Google, YouTube or AI tools. While other parts of the country enjoy fast internet, our province continues to struggle for want of an uninterrupted cyber access. The government must take immediate steps for improvement of internet services in Balochistan. DURJAN HAKEEM KOLOWAH
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COMMENT 05
Monday, 22 December, 2025
2025: The year of Regime Change in Iran
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Reformists proved to the agents of change, not the Pahlavis Naqi akbar
025 has two major conflicts in the first half of the calendar year whose impact would be felt still as the year closes; the India Pakistan conflict which ended in a stalemate only to be recharged from the Indian side in the last quarter of the year; and the other conflict was the fall out of the Gaza conflict, the limited war between the most known backer of HAMAS: the Islamic Republic of Iran or more pointedly the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps and the Israeli Defence Forces led by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. While from a distance and as reported in wire creeds; the IDF struck when the Iranian nuclear negotiators were in session for the revival of JCPOA with the active nod from the USA; a deep-down fact check revealed that it was in fact a sort of ‘Regime Change” operation in Iran. Given the fact that the vital security layers were compromised in the capital city Tehran; no official from the Reformist administration; led on the face by the President Phizishkian while actually steered from background by former foreign minister Jawad Zarif; were targeted in assassination operations, rather it was the officials from the IRGC, not the regular army, who were targeted by the IDF/Mossad operatives. Foremost among them was Hosain Bagheri an old IRGC hand and at the time of assassination the overall head of the Iranian armed forces, Hosain Salami; the IRGC
chief, Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the IRGC space force or missile chief, were killed in a meeting which was compromised by moles inside the IRGC. The pause between the initial losses and the later missile onslaught on Israel by the IRGC tried to create a balance between the warring factions somewhat; however, the Iranian theocratic regime came out of the 12day war much shaken; only able to keep a sort of semblance of being in control if not giving away control altogether. The reasons for that position emanated from the hard fact that the ascension of the reformist government in Iran after the snap elections in June 2024 as the result of death of radical President Raeesi in May 2024 under mysterious circumstances; the Iranian backed resistance infrastructures rapidly waned away to the point that on the first night of the swearing in of the reformist, the resistance lost its most potent icon; Ismael Haniya, in an operation masterminded by Mossad which actually left little of the mortal remains of the Hamas leader. Later, when the IRGC sought the supreme leader’s approval for a retaliation operation, it was vetoed by the reformist president. The over ruling or bypassing of the supreme leader’s dictates could be construed as the first sign of the erosion of the power of the actual power centres of the Islamic regime; the IRGC and the supreme leader. Later the Iranians did undertake strike operations which were more of a formality and less of making any lasting impact on the firepower of the IDF. While the reformist
It remains to be seen if the regime actually falls or a stalemate continues between the two Irans; the Iran preferring to remain true to its ideological roots or the Iran fervently trying to catch up with the latest global trends. Of major impact will be to what extent the Supreme Leader is able to drag out the average life cycle; after which a power grab might be the first stage of ‘regime change’ or a perpetual civil conflict
control was usually associated with the cultural aspect, the year 2025 was different as the military muscle of the IRGC took a direct hit, not just in the form of prevailing upon the decision-making process, but also signalled a weakening of the republic in the long run. Despite tall claims by the Iranians and the IRGC that they will strike Israel again decisively; as the year ends; except for a few alerts; hyped or fake; there are no tangible indications that Iran is planning any first strike on IDF; rather the scenario still reeks of Iran waiting to be struck and then retaliate as per its available firepower. The weakening of the republic automatically precipitated the coming out of the rat holes of many claimants to what these emerging leaders called the new Iran; foremost amongst them the heir to the Pahlavi dynasty. The heir wasted no time in identifying with the IDF to make sure his claims were materialized. His desperation could be gauged from the hard fact that while the last Pahlavi monarch Muhammad Raza took into consideration the Muslim and Shia sensitivities of the Iranian nation; visiting shrines in Iraq and keeping a good rapport with the senior Shia clergy sans Khomeini, the new claimant had no qualms in reaching out to the IDF validation by praying at the Wailing Wall in occupied Jerusalem among other things. However, while his ideological somersaults did not go unnoticed by the Americans and Israelis alike, the real change in the character of the Islamic republic has been in fact been effected by the reformist group more effectively. To begin with the reformist government refused to enforce a properly drafted Hijab law or restore the Irshad patrolling; a term for enforcement of Islamic Hijab in the society. The result has been a more objective picture of Iran; those opting for Hijab take Hijab; while those opposing it may come out in the streets; however, for the regime it has been a sign of weakening of its authority in the society. That weakening has been triggered partially by the shrinking of the Iranian geopolitical influence in the region; which has rather mercilessly decapitated partially with the help of clever IDF strategy and partially with the cooperation of the disgruntled elements within the movement and Iran. Likewise, in the domain of creative arts; the censors maintained by the same Irshad
Standing together against intimidation
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DHAKA TRIBUNE Editorial
S has been stated numerous times, yet is worth repeating many times more, the attack on the offices of the Daily Star and Prothom Alo, together with the assault on New Age Editor and President of the Editors’ Council Nurul Kabir, was not simply an attack on two of the most prominent newspapers in the history of this country, but an attack on the very idea of a free press. At a time when emotions are heightened, tempers are flared, and nefarious entities and individuals are looking to weaponize grief to ensure that misinformation is rampant, it is credible media institutions who speak truth to power and
All of us in the media, from journalists, editors, publishers, and broadcasters must stand shoulder to shoulder
debunk all of the lies that continue to grow exponentially. There is no question that every newsroom feels like it is under threat now, and as such, at this critical juncture, solidarity within the media fraternity is most imperative; all of us in the media, from journalists, editors, publishers, and broadcasters must stand shoulder to shoulder. This solidarity must extend beyond words of condemnation and extend towards coordinated advocacy and unified demands for justice. We need the perpetrators identified and prosecuted swiftly, not only for justice
to be delivered but also to send a clear signal that intimidation of the press will not succeed. There can be no room for impunity here, else even more miscreants will be emboldened to strike again. Moving forward, especially given the importance of the time and elections around the corner, there must be collective courage and unity. It starts with our leaders to show that they truly care about press freedom beyond merely condemning attacks on it, and then extends to us. We must ensure that truth continues to shine, even as those within our society try to extinguish it.
The Hashemite custodianship: A safety valve for Jerusalem
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What is happening is a continuous attempt at reshaping the city’s religious, historical and legal character THE JORDAN TIMES Editorial
IS Majesty King Abdullah’s meeting with Muslim and Christian religious leaders from Jerusalem and Jordan reaffirmed Jordan’s historic and enduring role in protecting Jerusalem’s Islamic and Christian holy sites. As Jerusalem faces rising violations and attempts to change its religious and historical status, the Hashemite custodianship continues to serve as a stabilising force and a protective umbrella. The concerns voiced during the meeting by Patriarch Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem and All Palestine and Jordan, about a mounting existential threat to the Christian presence in the region is a testament from the heart of the Holy Land that what is happening is a continuous attempt at reshaping the city’s religious, historical and legal character. Patriarch Theophilos III highlighted that the Hashemite custodianship over Muslim and Christian holy sites in the Holy Land continues as a force for good and a fundamental pillar for achieving balance in times of uncertainty and challenges. The patriarch expressed Christians’ grave concern of the erosion of the historic arrangements of the status quo and extremist groups’ disturbing violations against Al Aqsa Mosque, underscoring that any threat to Muslim holy places is a threat to Christian holy places, in a shared insistence that Jerusalem’s sanctity is indivisible. Warnings from Jerusalem Awqaf Council President and Director of Jerusalem Awqaf and Al Aqsa Mosque Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Azzam Al Khatib about escalating Israeli attacks in Jerusalem necessitate action, as silence in the face of such violations emboldens extremists and threaten not only religious freedoms, but also the historical and legal integrity of the sites. Al Khatib highlighted the importance of the Hashemite custodianship over holy sites in Jerusalem, which dates back to the Pact of Umar, and thanked the King for his keenness to maintain
outreach to Muslim and Christian religious figures. Wednesday’s meeting also emphasised the connection between Jerusalem and Gaza. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, conveyed the appreciation of Gaza’s Christian community for His Majesty’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, indicating that the King’s Custodianship not only protects the buildings and physical structures of holy sites, but also its people and communities who sustain them. Against this backdrop and as Archbishop Hussam Naoum observed, the Hashemite custodianship remains a safety valve for Palestinians, Muslims and Christians alike, helping them remain steadfast in their land and holy sites. In a period marked by escalating tensions and ideological extremism, this role is more vital than ever. As Jerusalem approaches major religious milestones in the coming years, the custodianship continues to serve not only Jordan and Palestine, but the broader international interest in preserving Jerusalem as a city of faith, diversity and coexistence.
ministry were found to be lax gradually. An Iranian serial “Aban” in the first half of 2025 dealt with the subject of relationships previously frowned upon and its censors were liberal by traditional post-1979 Iranian standards. It showed the husband in a negative light while the intruder into the matrimonial union was shown as all powerful; a clear emphasis of accepting the changing value system or at least treating it as a ‘new normal’. If that was not enough a recently released movie Peer Pisar or ‘Bachelor Oldman’ has one subtle kissing scene where renowned Iranian actress Laila Hatemi leans inside the car window to kiss Hamed Behdad, another crossing into the new normal. Taking a wholesome view of the society, the Iranian system has always prided itself on two counts, its support for Palestine and having a parallel value system for the creative arts; where it had the ability to express things without degenerating into the western creative value systems, seems to be slipping away fast. In that scenario; if there is a debate of
regime change in Iran; practically with the ascension of the reform group, the regime change has been already affected in essence; a neutralized supreme leader; allowed only a few speeches, the IRGC with blocked funds; creative art monitored without any government or system writ. What might need to be done from the IDF, the USA and EU perspective is just the physical decapitation of the system; which can take place if the above-mentioned entities are sure enough that the Iranian system has been weakened from within. It remains to be seen if the regime actually falls or a stalemate continues between the two Irans; the Iran preferring to remain true to its ideological roots or the Iran fervently trying to catch up with the latest global trends. Of major impact will be to what extent the Supreme Leader is able to drag out the average life cycle; after which a power grab might be the first stage of ‘regime change’ or a perpetual civil conflict. The writer is a freelance columnist
Foremost among them was Hosain Bagheri an old IRGC hand and at the time of assassination the overall head of the Iranian armed forces, Hosain Salami; the IRGC chief, Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the IRGC space force or missile chief, were killed in a meeting which was compromised by moles inside the IRGC
Epsteinberg: Not even the tip has surfaced
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Epstein file release fell short of transparency, with much withheld, sparking complaints and public outcry TEHRAN TIMES Staff WritEr
HE U.S. Justice Department’s release of the Jeffrey Epstein files on Friday has reignited headlines and social media frenzy. Thousands of pages, photos, and investigative documents were made public, showing Epstein with celebrities, politicians, and business elites. Images of Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, Michael Jackson, Mick Jagger, and Diana Ross quickly went viral, dominating news feeds and social media discussions. Yet what has been released is only a fraction of the story, and the most consequential aspects—his intelligence ties, institutional protection, and the full scope of victims—remain hidden. A central figure in Epstein’s network was Ghislaine Maxwell, his close confidante and key facilitator of his operations. She was deeply involved in managing his relationships, connecting him to powerful figures, and recruiting victims. Her extraordinary access and influence were shaped in part by her family: her father, Robert Maxwell, was a powerful media mogul and former politician. Robert Maxwell’s international connections—particularly in Israel—helped Ghislaine navigate elite circles and reinforced Epstein’s access to the wealthy and politically powerful. His funeral on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem (alQuds) in 1991, attended by top Israeli officials, underscores the prominence of the Maxwell family. This combination of Ghislaine’s personal closeness to Epstein and her family’s influence helped solidify a network that allowed Epstein to operate with impunity for decades. Analysts note that Epstein’s proximity to Ghislaine may have strengthened his own access to intelligence-linked networks and powerful figures. This context highlights how Epstein operated not in isolation but within a web of wealth, influence, and international connections—making it easier for him to avoid accountability while exploiting victims. CELEBRITY, POLITICAL FIGURES IN THE SPOTLIGHT The files contain high-profile photos and mentions: -Bill Clinton in a pool with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, and other social gatherings from the 1990s and early 2000s. -Prince Andrew lying across laps of five people, faces redacted. -Donald Trump, mentioned in court filings alleging Epstein introduced him to a 14year-old girl at Mar-a-Lago. According to the filing, Epstein “playfully asked” about the girl and Trump “smiled and nodded.” The victim did not accuse Trump of abuse. -Musicians like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Mick Jagger, and Chris Tucker, though the context of the photos remains unclear. What these photos do show is Epstein’s extraordinary access to the powerful, aided in part by his connections through the Maxwell family, whose father was deeply embedded in
international media, politics, and influential networks. REDACTIONS AND MISSING PAGES Despite the dramatic photos, large portions of the files are heavily redacted. Entire reports, names, and details—especially those of over 1,200 victims—are obscured. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that hundreds of thousands more pages are still under review. Lawmakers, including Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, have criticized the DOJ for not fully complying with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which required all unclassified materials to be released and redactions to be explained. The law’s caveat—that materials that could compromise national security or ongoing investigations may be withheld—effectively allows intelligence agencies to keep the most sensitive parts hidden, potentially including those connected to Epstein’s network and Maxwell family influence. INTELLIGENCE TIES: THE HIDDEN RATIONALE Investigative reporting from Drop Site News, Ryan Grim, and Murtaza Hussain highlights Epstein’s connections to intelligence networks: He collaborated with former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Israeli military intelligence officers in the U.S. He facilitated security agreements, surveillance projects, and geopolitical moves that advanced Israeli interests. Epstein acted as a private intermediary, connecting intelligence agencies, political leaders, and wealthy elites. These ties explain why Epstein repeatedly escaped accountability. Institutions often deferred to intelligence interests, shielding him from prosecution. VICTIMS BEYOND THE HEADLINES The files underscore the human toll of Epstein’s crimes. Survivors like Virginia Giuffre and Maria Farmer are central to understanding the full scope of his abuse: Maria Farmer reported Epstein to the FBI in 1996, saying he had stolen photos of her sisters and threatened her home. Giuffre’s testimony exposed Epstein’s global trafficking network, including allegations that she was trafficked to powerful men. The public and lawmakers have expressed concern that the release still fails to deliver justice, leaving victims’ experiences largely hidden behind redactions. The rationale is clear: Epstein was not only a sexual predator but also a strategic actor, leveraging access to wealth, political power, and intelligence networks. His actions reflect a systemic failure of institutions, both U.S. and foreign, that allowed him to abuse victims for decades. EPSTEIN’S HIDDEN WORLD Friday’s Epstein file release is a newsworthy and shocking event, but it is only the beginning. The human cost—hundreds of victims like Giuffre and Farmer—is real, but the deeper story lies in the networks of power and secrecy that shielded Epstein. Until all documents are released and redactions explained, the Epstein story is incomplete—a small visible tip of an immense iceberg lying beneath the surface, shaped by secrecy, wealth, and protection by powerful institutions.
06 NEWS
Monday, 22 December 2025 | ISLAMABAD
TRUMP READIES AGGRESSIVE IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWN IN 2026 AMID BREWING BACKLASH
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WASHINGTON AGENCIES
S President Donald Trump is preparing for a more aggressive immigration crackdown in 2026 with billions in new funding, including by raiding more workplaces—even as backlash builds ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Trump has already surged immigration agents into major US cities, where they swept through neighborhoods and clashed with residents. While federal agents this year conducted some highprofile raids on businesses, they largely avoided raiding farms, factories and other businesses that are economically important but known to employ immigrants without legal status. ICE and Border Patrol will get $170 billion in additional funds through September 2029 – a huge surge of funding over their existing annual budgets of about $19 billion after the Republicancontrolled Congress passed a massive spending package in July. Administration officials say they plan to hire thousands more agents, open new detention centers, pick up more immigrants in local jails and partner with outside companies to track down people without legal status. The expanded deportation plans come despite growing signs of political backlash ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Miami, one of the cities most af-
fected by Trump’s crackdown because of its large immigrant population, elected its first Democratic mayor in nearly three decades last week in what the mayorelect said was, in part, a reaction to the president. Other local elections and polling have suggested rising concern among voters wary of aggressive immigration tactics. “People are beginning to see this not as an immigration question anymore as much as it is a violation of rights, a violation of due process and militarizing neighborhoods extra constitutionally,” said Mike Madrid, a moderate Republican political strategist. “There is no question that is a problem for the president and Republicans.” Trump’s overall approval rating on
immigration policy fell from 50% in March, before he launched crackdowns in several major US cities, to 41% in mid-December, for what had been his strongest issue. Rising public unease has focused on masked federal agents using aggressive tactics such as deploying tear gas in residential neighborhoods and detaining US citizens. ‘Numbers will explode’ In addition to expanding enforcement actions, Trump has stripped hundreds of thousands of Haitian, Venezuelan and Afghan immigrants of temporary legal status, expanding the pool of people who could be deported as the president promises to remove 1 million immigrants each year – a goal he almost certainly will
miss this year. So far, some 622,000 immigrants have been deported since Trump took office in January. White House border czar Tom Homan told Reuters Trump had delivered on his promise of a historic deportation operation and removing criminals while shutting down illegal immigration across the US-Mexico border. Homan said the number of arrests will increase sharply as ICE hires more officers and expands detention capacity with the new funding. “I think you’re going to see the numbers explode greatly next year,” Homan said. Homan said the plans “absolutely” include more enforcement actions at workplaces. Sarah Pierce, director of social policy at the center-left group Third Way, said US businesses have been reluctant to push back on Trump’s immigration crackdown in the past year but could be prompted to speak up if the focus turns to employers. Pierce said it will be interesting to see “whether or not businesses finally stand up to this administration.” Trump, a Republican, recaptured the White House promising record levels of deportations, saying it was needed after years of high levels of illegal immigration under his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden. He kicked off a campaign that dispatched federal agents to US cities in search of possible immigration offenders, sparking protests and lawsuits over racial profiling and violent tactics.
2025: A Year of Reframed Governance in Punjab QUDRAT ULLAH
Gunmen kill nine in Johannesburg-area tavern attack, nationwide manhunt underway JOHANNESBURG AGENCIES
At least nine people were killed and 10 others wounded early Sunday in a mass shooting at a tavern in the Bekkersdal township, southwest of Johannesburg, authorities said, and police launched a manhunt for the suspects involved. The attack occurred just before 1 a.m. local time at the KwaNoxolo tavern in the Tambo section of Bekkersdal, where unknown gunmen opened fire on patrons and then continued to shoot randomly as they fled the scene, according to the South African Police Service. Police said about a dozen unidentified suspects arrived in a white minibus and a silver sedan before opening fire inside the licensed tavern. Some victims were also struck by gunfire as they attempted to escape, officials said. Africanews Provincial police commissioner Major General Fred Kekana told local media that the dead included passengers inside the venue and at least one e-hailing driver who had recently dropped off a customer and was shot while outside. South China Morning Post The injured were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment, police said. A wide scale search for the suspects has been launched by Gauteng Serious and Violent Crime Investigations in collaboration with the Crime Detection Tracing Unit, and authorities have urged the public to come forward with information. Bekkersdal is part of the Rand West City local municipality, an area long affected by high unemployment and poverty following the decline of local gold mining. Mass shootings at bars, sometimes referred to locally as shebeens or taverns, have become a troubling pattern in South Africa despite strict gun control laws, with several such attacks reported in recent weeks. The country continues to struggle with high rates of violent crime and homicides, with tens of thousands of murders recorded annually in recent years. Authorities have not yet released details on the motive or identities of those responsible as investigations continue.
Punjab’s journey through 2025 has unfolded as a year in which governance was not merely asserted but demonstrated. Under Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the administration steadily moved away from ceremonialism toward a results-oriented approach that placed citizens’ everyday needs at the centre of policy. The tone of governance was purposeful, defined by urgency in delivery, institutional reform and a conscious effort to rebuild public trust in the state’s capacity to serve. In a province as large and complex as Punjab, that shift alone carries political and social significance. The most visible impact of this approach has been in the areas of social welfare and housing, where the government addressed one of the most pressing concerns of middle- and low-income households: securing shelter. Through Apni Chhat Apna Ghar, families were offered interest-free loans on managemonthly instalments, able transforming home ownership from a distant aspiration into a realistic possibility. Alongside this, Apni Zameen Apna Ghar provided free residential plots to landless citizens, particularly in underserved districts. These initiatives did more than construct houses; they restored stability, encouraged long-term planning and reinforced the idea that the state can be a partner in personal progress rather than a distant authority. The broader social protection framework reflected a similar sensitivity to dignity and inclusion. Programs such as the Himmat Card for persons with disabilities and the Bewa Sahara Card for widows offered predictable financial support coupled with access to essential services. Rather than treating vulnerability as a footnote, these initiatives acknowledged it as a central policy concern. The Punjab Dhee Rani Program, aimed at supporting underprivileged families during marriages, further demonstrated an understanding of social realities where cultural obligations often impose heavy fi-
nancial strain. By addressing these pressures directly, the government reduced social stress while preserving respect and honour for beneficiaries. Agriculture remained a cornerstone of the provincial agenda in 2025, approached not as a legacy sector but as one requiring modern solutions. The Kisan Card expanded farmers’ access to interestfree credit tied to agricultural inputs, reducing dependence on informal borrowing and increasing productivity. Mechanisation initiatives such as the Green Tractor Scheme and the establishment of Green Agri Malls provided farmers with modern tools, quality seeds and fertilisers at regulated prices. Equally significant was the solarisation of agricultural tube wells, a reform that lowered operational costs for farmers while aligning the sector with environmental sustainability. These interventions collectively signalled a shift from short-term relief toward long-term resilience in rural economies. Energy reforms extended beyond agriculture to households as well. Free and subsidised solar panel schemes for low-consumption consumers addressed both affordability and energy security. At a time when rising power costs have strained household budgets, these measures offered tangible relief while promoting clean energy adoption. They also underscored a policy direction that views environmental responsibility as compatible with economic pragmatism rather than in conflict with it. Education and youth empowerment stood out as defining themes of the year. The Honhaar Scholarship Program removed financial barriers for high-achieving students, covering tuition and transport costs across public and private institutions. The Punjab Laptop Scheme 2025 emerged as a particularly consequential intervention. By providing free laptops to deserving students, the Punjab government took a decisive step toward bridging the digital divide. The program aims to improve digital literacy and help students
achieve academic success by granting access to modern technology, recognising that competitiveness is inseparable from digital access. Complementing this, the CM Internship Program and the EBike Scheme addressed employability and mobility, reinforcing the idea that education policy must engage with real-world constraints faced by students. Healthcare reforms in 2025 reflected both ambition and structural clarity. Administrative integration of health-related departments sought to reduce duplication and improve service coordination. On the ground, expanded community clinics, upgraded hospitals, and the launch of specialised facilities in oncology and cardiology improved access to care. The introduction of air ambulance services for emergency evacuations in remote areas marked a significant step toward equitable healthcare delivery, ensuring that geography does not determine survival. Public service delivery underwent a quiet but meaningful transformation. The Dastak Program, which delivers essential government services directly to citizens’ doorsteps through a digital platform, challenged the long-standing culture of bureaucratic snafus. By reducing procedural friction and human discretion, it strengthened transparency and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Suthra Punjab campaign addressed sanitation and waste management at scale, recognising that governance credibility is shaped as much by cleanliness and order as by grand development projects. As Punjab prepares to enter a new year, the legacy of 2025 lies in its reframing of expectations. Citizens have seen that governance can be responsive, inclusive and practical. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s year in review is not defined by a single flagship project, but by a sustained effort to align state capacity with public need. In that alignment lies the promise of a more confident, cohesive and forward-looking Punjab. (The writer is a Lahore-based public policy analyst and can be reached at qudratu@gmail.com)
US proposes direct talks to end Ukraine war MIAMI
AGENCIES
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Washington had proposed the first face-to-face negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in half a year, as diplomats converged on Miami for fresh talks on ending the war. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev said he was heading to Miami, while Ukrainian and European teams were also in the sunny American city for the negotiations, mediated by Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and the US president’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. “They proposed this format as far as I understand: Ukraine, America, Russia,” Zelensky said, adding that the Europeans could be present and it would be “logical to hold such a joint meeting… after we understand the potential results of the meeting that has already taken place”. Trump’s envoys have pushed a plan in which the United States would offer security guarantees to Ukraine, but Kyiv will likely be expected to surrender some territory, a prospect resented by many Ukrainians. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday promised not to force Ukraine into any agreement, saying “there’s no peace deal unless Ukraine agrees to it”. He added that he may join the talks on Saturday in Miami, his hometown. Dmitriev wrote in an X post that he was “on the way to Miami”, adding a peace dove emoji and attaching a short video of a morning sun shining through clouds on a beach with palms. “As warmongers keep working overtime to undermine the US peace plan for Ukraine, I remembered this video from my previous visit — light breaking through the storm clouds,” he added. The last time Ukrainian and Russian envoys held official direct talks was in July in Istanbul, which led to prisoner swaps but little else in the way of concrete progress. Russian and European involvement marks a step forward from before, when the Americans held separate negotiations with each side in different locations. However, it is unlikely Dmitriev would hold direct talks with European negotiators as relations between the two sides remain extremely strained. Moscow, which sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, argues that Europe’s involvement in the talks would only hinder the process and tends to paint the continent’s leaders as pro-war. The weekend talks come after President Vladimir Putin vowed to press ahead with his military offensive in Ukraine, hailing Moscow’s battlefield gains nearly four years into his war in an annual news conference on Friday. Russia announced on Saturday it had captured two villages in Ukraine’s Sumy and Donetsk regions, further grinding through the country’s east in costly battles.
Netanyahu plans to brief Trump on possible new Iran strikes JERUSALEM AGENCIES
US President Donald Trump is set to be briefed by Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that any expansion of Iran’s ballistic missile program poses a threat that could necessitate swift action. Israeli officials are concerned that Iran is reconstituting nuclear enrichment sites the US bombed in June, and are preparing to brief Trump for options on attacking the missile program again, the NBC report added. Earlier, Iran executed a man who it said was convicted of spying for Israel and having ties to Iranian opposition groups, the judiciary’s Mizan news agency reported. Entangled in a decades-long shadow war with Israel, Iran has executed many people itaccused of having links with Israel’s intelligence service and facilitating its operations in the country. The Oslo-based Iran Human Rights group said on X that the man, whom it identified as 27-year-old architecture student Aghil Keshavarz, was sentenced to death on charges related to espionage for Israel “based on confessions extracted under torture”. The Iran-Israel conflict escalated into a war in June, when Israel struck various targets inside Iran, including through operations that relied on Mossad commandos being deployed deep inside the country. Executions of Iranians convicted of spying for Israel have significantly increased this year, with multiple death sentences carried out in recent months.
Israel accelerates outposts, roads construction for permanent presence in Gaza: Reports NEW YORK AGENCIES
Israel is laying the groundwork for a permanent military presence across large parts of the Gaza Strip, despite official denials of permanent occupation, according reports and analysis from research agencies and the United Nations. Satellite imagery and on-the-ground intelligence suggest that Israel has accelerated the development of 48 military outposts inside Gaza, ahead of the potential deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) under the terms of the US peace plan for the enclave. These outposts are connected by a network of new and expanded roads that link to Israeli bases outside Gaza, creating a solidified military footprint. “Israel is doing what it always does, and what it historically has done best: establish ‘facts on the ground,’ incrementally rather than spectacularly, and make them permanent once those with influence to force it to reverse course either lose interest, decide that the cost of confronting Israel is not worth the price, or come out in open support of Israeli violations. Mouin Rabbani, co-editor of Jadaliyya and a former UN official
who worked as a senior analyst on IsraelPalestine for the International Crisis Group, told Drop Site, a Washington-based investigative news outlet. “Israel is in no rush and prepared to play the long game,” he said after reviewing a summary of the Forensic Architecture findings. The analysis also shows that, between October 10 and December 2, 2025, Israel has accelerated the growth and infrastructure development of 48 existing military outposts inside Gaza, expanded a network of roads connecting military outposts inside Gaza to the Israeli road network, bases and settlements outside of Gaza, continued construction that began in September 2025 of a new road in Khan Younis, re-routing the Magen Oz corridor to run within Israel’s area of control and engaged in the systematic demolition and destruction of Palestinian property, particularly in eastern Khan Younis, targeting areas which haven’t already been destroyed. New military outposts and roads have emerged across this area. “Augmenting multiple Israeli statements about extending its borders with buffer zones to the north, east, and south, this is indisputably an Israeli campaign to partition the Gaza Strip and thereby promote its long-
term objective of moving the Palestinian population elsewhere,” Rabbani said. “At the same time, Israeli success is not a foregone conclusion. If it was, the Palestinian population of the Gaza Strip would have been ethnically cleansed years if not decades ago.” As part of the initial phase of the Oct 10 ceasefire agreement, the Israeli military partially withdrew to what became known as the “yellow line,” with over half of Gaza under continued Israeli control, Drop Site pointed out. The term comes from a map that was distributed in late September as part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point ceasefire plan that depicted a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops, to an initial yellow line, followed by another withdrawal, until an eventual pullback to a “buffer zone” running inside Gaza along the border with Israel. Point 16 of Trump’s 20-point plan explicitly states, “Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza. As the ISF establishes control and stability, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will withdraw based on standards, milestones, and timeframes linked to demilitarization.” It goes on to say, “Practically, the IDF will progressively hand over the Gaza territory it occupies to the ISF according to
an agreement they will make with the transitional authority until they are withdrawn completely from Gaza, save for a security perimeter presence.” While the “standards, milestones, and timeframes” around Israel’s withdrawal have been highly contentious, they are nevertheless the principal subject of ongoing negotiations, it was pointed out. However, the analysis by Forensic Architecture clearly shows that Israel is consolidating its military
presence on the ground east of the yellow line in a way that suggests no intention of a further withdrawal Meanwhile, the United States is intensifying efforts to put together the ISF. On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the Trump administration will have to clarify the mandate of the force before it can expect to secure troop commitments from countries willing to contribute their troops.
NEWS 07
Monday, 22 December 2025 | ISLAMABAD
CM MARYAM BOOSTS TIES WITH MAURITIUS, AIOU holds KP chapter SIGNALS NEW TRADE AND INVESTMENT MOMENTUM Convocation in Peshawar
CORPORATE CORNER
ISLAMABAD
staff report
The convocation of Allama Iqbal Open University (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chapter) took place yesterday at Nishtar Hall, Peshawar. Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, was the chief guest of the ceremony. Vice Chancellor AIOU, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, presided over the ceremony. In his address, Faisal Karim Kundi stated that AIOU’s educational services set an example for universities across the country. Providing free education to prisoners, children of martyrs, and transgender individuals is a significant contribution to the nation. Addressing the students, he said that receiving a degree is not the end but the beginning of a new journey; true success will come when your knowledge benefits others. He encouraged students to make education a means of positive change and to bring pride to the country and the nation. Highlighting the university’s academic programs, he said: “Offering technical and professional training, digital education, and artificial intelligence courses at AIOU is a commendable initiative.” Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood said that, to date, five million students have graduated from this national university and are serving in various institutions across Pakistan.
Dumpukht by Pearl Continental Wins Top Honors at Annual Culinary Awards
LAHORE
staff report
UNJAB Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz warmly welcomed H.E. Munsoo Kurrimbaccus, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius to Pakistan, in a meeting that highlighted the shared determination to strengthen bilateral trade, economic cooperation, and people-to-people ties. The discussion emphasized promoting business-to-business contacts, mutual visits of trade delegations, and organizing exhibitions to showcase the quality products of both countries, signaling a new momentum in economic collaboration. CM Maryam Nawaz expressed her determination to expand trade and investment opportunities with Mauritius, particularly in agriculture, tourism, education, halal food, technology, and human resource development. She emphasized her government’s support for blue economy projects and stressed plans to further increase exports of rice, textiles, and pharmaceutical products to Mauritius. Technical collaboration
in sugarcane cultivation and value addition was also identified as a key area of mutual interest. The Chief Minister highlighted Mauritius’ investment potential in Punjab’s tourism sector, appreciating its efforts in youth development and anti-drug initiatives. She paid tribute to the High Commissioner for his diplomatic contributions, noting that Pakistan and Mauritius share
long-standing friendly relations based on cultural ties and mutual respect. She underscored opportunities in human capital development, especially in higher education and professional skills, while identifying sectors like agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and light engineering as having significant trade potential. CM Maryam Nawaz also drew attention to the Skill Development Pro-
gramme, which is transforming over one lakh youth into a skilled workforce, and highlighted the recent growth in bilateral trade. She emphasized Punjab’s initiatives under the Climate Resilient Vision Action Plan, including green investment, environmental protection, forest conservation, green transportation, and green energy, demonstrating the province’s commitment to sustainable development. On tourism, the Chief Minister said Punjab is a rich and diverse hub, with landmarks such as Shahi Qila, Badshahi Masjid, Shalimar Gardens, and Noor Mahal Tomb drawing both local and foreign tourists. She noted Punjab’s resilience in facing devastating floods and stressed the province’s ongoing efforts to encourage foreign investment in tourism. H.E. Munsoo Kurrimbaccus welcomed the discussions, stating that promoting tourism and economic activities would project Pakistan’s positive image globally, and expressed readiness to support technical cooperation in agriculture, technology, and other strategic sectors. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing mutual relations and long-term collaboration between Pakistan and Mauritius.
Zarkheze: Digitizing Agriculture with Seamless Credit and Smart Advisory ISLAMABAD
staff report
The Finance Division Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA), has launched Zarkheze, a digital platform designed to revolutionize agricultural financing. The initiative aims to digitize agriculture finance enabling farmers to digitally apply and obtain financing of upto Rs. 1 million through Zarkheze app. After necessary verifications and agronomic assessments, the application will be submitted to the bank of farmer’s choice for processing the application. 75% of the financing will be disbursed in kind for the purchase of
Agri-inputs through pre-approved Agrivendors of banks. Besides financing, the farmer will also be provided with Agri-advisory services through the Land Information Management System (LIMS). The Zarkheze product will thus not only provide financing but will also improve the farmers’ productivity through quality inputs and advisory services. To incentivize the banks to aggressively provide financing to small farmers, the Government has also provided 10 percent first loss coverage and an operational cost subsidy of Rs. 10,000 per borrower for the net increase in outstanding borrowers of banks. Commenting on the initiative, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, said:
Hotel Mehran announces special discounts on Christmas, Quaid Day
ISLAMABAD
staff report
PC Hospitality is delighted to announce that its distinguished restaurant concept, “Dumpukht by Pearl Continental,” has been honored with the Best Mughlai Cuisine Restaurant Brand Award at the prestigious Annual Culinary Awards. The recognition celebrates the brand's enduring commitment to authentic flavors, traditional cooking techniques, and its rich, heritage-driven culinary identity. Mr. Bastien Blanc, CEO of PC Hospitality, added his remarks on the achievement: “We are welcoming the recognition of Dumpukht by Pearl Continental, which validates our commitment to bringing diverse and exceptional culinary experiences through our restaurant division, The Connoisseur Collection. With close to 60 restaurants in operation and a pipeline leading to over 80 by the end of 2026, we look forward to developing many locations over the coming years, starting with this award-winning brand.” Dumpukht, which is part of the Connoisseur Collection by Pearl Continental, has been consistently delighting guests with amazing flavors for over 30 years, operating at two key locations in Lahore: Pearl Continental Hotel Lahore and DHA Raya. Building on this continuous success and recent award, PC Hospitality is entering a new phase of growth through an asset light model.
“Zarkheze exemplifies our commitment to expanding financial inclusion. By facilitating access to formal credit for small farmers, this initiative supports the Government’s broader objectives of rural development and national food security.” Mr. Jameel Ahmad, Governor SBP, said: “Zarkheze is a pivotal step in improving the small farmers’ access to finance. By digitising the credit journey, we are removing friction for small farmers and ensuring that formal lending is accessible, timely, and helps farmers improve their productivity. Zarkheze will also support in achieving the broader goal of promoting and nurturing digital payments in rural economy.” Mr. Zafar Masud, Chairman PBA, highlighted the banking sector’s collec-
KATI welcomes Sindh’s allocation of Rs2b for Korangi Industrial Zone KARACHI
tive role in supporting the initiative, stating, "The banking industry remains committed to the successful implementation of Zarkheze. We will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Finance and the State Bank of Pakistan to expand outreach and streamline processes for farmers across the country. By leveraging advanced technology and innovative credit assessment methods, we aim to improve access to finance for smallholder farmers, particularly landless operating within a largely undocumented sector." The Zarkheze application is now available for download on the Google Play Store. Farmers can also visit their nearest bank branch for assistance with digital onboarding.
Empowered women foundation of progressive society: LG Minister
staff report
KARACHI
Hotel Mehran actively participated in an Interfaith and Peace Harmony Ceremony held at the Church of Pakistan, Diocese of Karachi and Balochistan, on the invitation of The Rt. Rev. Frederick John, Bishop of Karachi & Balochistan. The event brought together leaders from different faiths and professions to promote unity, tolerance, and coexistence. To mark Christmas Day and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah Day, Hotel Mehran announced a special discount for the Christian community on 24th, 25th, and 26th December 2025, applicable on all buffet meals and cakes. The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests including Mr. Mohammad Abdullah, CEO Karachi Containment Board, The Rt. Rev. Frederick John, Mr. Yasir Ahmed (General Manager, Hotel Mehran), Mr. Muhammad Yousuf (Director Sales, Hotel Mehran), Mr. Anwar Sardar Khan, Ms. Tushana Patel, and senior advocates of the High Court ( Syed Israr Ali / Muhammad Jamil / Mr. Salim Michael/ Mr Nadeem Sheikh). Mohammad Abdullah CEO karachi Containment Board appreciated the initiative and emphasized that peace and interfaith harmony are vital for Karachi’s progress. Bishop Frederick John highlighted that unity among communities strengthens the nation. Mr. Nadeem Sheikh, Advocate High Court, stressed that harmony and equality are guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan. Mr. Yasir Ahmed, General Manager Hotel Mehran, thanked the Bishop and all participants and reaffirmed Hotel Mehran’s commitment to inclusivity and community harmony. staff report
ESUP strengthens Pak-Lebanon bonds by hosting Ambassador Abdul Aziz Issa
KARACHI
staff report
The English Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP) was honored to host His Excellency Abdul Aziz Issa, Ambassador of Lebanon to Pakistan, as a distinguished guest speaker at a recent event. The Ambassador's visit underscored the strong and cordial relations between Lebanon and Pakistan, highlighting opportunities for enhanced cooperation in various fields. During his enlightening address, Ambassador Issa shared valuable insights into Lebanon's rich cultural heritage, history, and current developments. He emphasized the significance of people-to-people connections in fostering stronger ties between nations and expressed optimism about the potential for increased collaboration between Lebanon and Pakistan in areas such as education, culture, trade, and tourism. The event, attended by ESUP members, academics, and dignitaries, provided a platform for engaging discussions and exchange of ideas. Ambassador Issa graciously responded to questions, shedding light on Lebanon's experiences and perspectives on regional and global issues. The interactive session demonstrated the keen interest of Pakistani academics and professionals in Lebanon's development and cultural richness.
PUNJAB CM VOWS TO EXPAND TRADE, INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITH MAURITIUS IN TOURISM, EDUCATION, HALAL FOOD AND HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
P g
President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Muhammad Ikram Rajput, has welcomed the Sindh government’s approval of Rs9.282 billion for the rehabilitation of basic infrastructure in Karachi’s industrial areas, including Rs2 billion specifically allocated for the Korangi Industrial Zone. He expressed gratitude to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah for fulfilling a long-standing demand of the industrial community, stating that the decision reinforces the Pakistan Peoples Party’s vision of industrialization under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He also commended the Sindh Cabinet for what he termed a historic and timely initiative. President KATI noted that similar funds had been utilized effectively in the past, a fact acknowledged by all relevant stakeholders. However, due to prolonged neglect and increasing industrial pressure, infrastructure in major industrial zones had deteriorated significantly, adversely affecting industrial activity. He said the restoration of funds would now accelerate development works, leading to the revival of industrial operations. Ikram Rajput recalled that in the past, funds released by the Sindh government for KATI and other industrial zones were utilized transparently. He pointed out that organizations such as KITE Limited, along with other industrial entities, successfully completed projects at low cost while meeting international standards. He emphasized that the initiative would not only help promote industrial activity but would also yield positive outcomes for exports, employment generation, and overall economic stability. He added that Karachi is Pakistan’s economic hub, and deteriorating infrastructure in key industrial areas particularly Korangi, Landhi, and SITE had been causing significant economic losses to the country. According to him, the special infrastructure package would lead to improvements across all industrial zones in Karachi, including Korangi, restoring stalled activities and contributing to economic recovery. He maintained that the Sindh government’s decision would benefit not only Karachi but the entire country.
KARACHI
An award ceremony aimed at celebrating and empowering women from diverse fields across Pakistan was held at a local hotel in an impressive and well-organized manner. The event brought together distinguished guests, professionals, and achievers to recognize the valuable contributions of women to society. The Minister for Local Government and Housing & Town Planning, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest. In his address, he strongly emphasized the importance of women’s self-reliance, stating that empowered women are the foundation of a strong and progressive society. He congratulated all the award recipients and expressed his heartfelt commitment to supporting women’s advancement wherever possible. The minister highlighted the vital role of mothers in shaping a healthy and responsible society, noting that a mother not only nurtures a family but also plays a key role in building a better nation. He added that appreciation platforms such as these awards encourage women to move forward with confidence and perform their roles effectively alongside men. He also appreciated the efforts of Smart Business Group (SBG) and Elegant Event Planner for successfully managing the 5th Awards Ceremony, praising their professionalism and dedication. The minister extended his best wishes to both organizations for hosting more impactful and meaningful events in the future. On the occasion, senior journalist Zahid Karani was acknowledged for his role in the event, and the minister expressed his gratitude to him for the invitation to attend as chief guest. staff report
30,000 cops to guard Christmas, Quaid Day as Punjab Police calibrates security plan g
PLAN ENVISAGES SECURITY OF OVER 2,900 CHURCHES, INCLUDING 600 IN LAHORE, CATEGORIZED A, B, C FOR FOCUSED PROTECTION LAHORE
staff report
Punjab Police have finalized comprehensive security arrangements for Christmas and Quaid-e-Azam Day, deploying over 30,000 police officers and personnel across the province to secure more than 2,900 churches, including over 600 in Lahore. In addition, more than 1,000 personnel will ensure the safety of programmes held on Quaid-e-Azam Day, while women officers will assist in screening female citizens attending celebrations, according to a police statement issued here on Sunday.
Sharing details of the plan, a spokesperson for the Punjab Police said that Churches have been classified into A, B, and C categories based on sensitivity, with 142 churches in Category A, 291 in Category B, and over 2,500 in Category C, enabling focused deployment at higher-risk locations. The spokesperson said these measures aim to ensure foolproof security while promoting interfaith harmony during the festive season. Punjab IG Police Dr Usman Anwar has directed all RPOs and DPOs to maintain high alert, deploying additional forces at sensitive churches, and keeping a strict
watch on anti-state elements and suspicious individuals. He emphasized continuous liaison with church administrations and the use of Safe Cities Authority cameras for monitoring events. Sensitive locations will also have commandos, snipers, and Elite Police teams deployed, while Dolphin Squad, PRU, and CTD units will ensure effective patrolling and counterterror measures, the statement said. Ahead of the festivities, flag marches, search and sweep operations, and mock emergency exercises are being conducted across the province, including Lahore, to enhance police readiness. During the past
24 hours, 249 combing operations questioned 7,542 individuals, leading to the arrest of 45 criminal elements, 573 proclaimed offenders, 168 court absconders, and 58 habitual criminals. IGP Dr Anwar stated that mock exercises at churches, educational institutions, and sensitive locations involve the Bomb Disposal Squad, Rescue 1122, Elite Force, and other security agencies. He directed that door-to-door operations, profiling of outsiders, and comprehensive patrolling continue to prevent terrorist activity and maintain law and order throughout the festive period.
Monday, 22 December, 2025
TTAP DECLARES NATIONWIDE STRIKE ON FEB 8, DEMANDS NEW ‘CHARTER OF DEMOCRACY’ AND FREE ELECTIONS
prayer timings
NEWS
ZUHR
ASR MAGHRIB ISHA
6:55
1:30
3:45
IN TODAY’S ISSUE
ISLAMABAD
staff report
HE main opposition alliance, Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), on Sunday ana nationwide nounced wheel-jam and shutter-down strike on February 8, 2026, coinciding with the second anniversary of the 2024 general elections that brought the current PML-N government to power. The move follows remarks by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who confirmed that preparations for a countrywide movement are underway and that “a formal call would soon be issued.” Addressing a high-level conference in Islamabad, TTAP leaders stressed that the country needed a new Charter of Democracy more than ever before. To coordinate nationwide efforts, the alliance decided to form a central committee led by Vice Chairman Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, with Haleem Adil Sheikh, Zain Shah, and others tasked to
establish provincial and district-level committees. The TTAP also announced plans to organise conferences at all provincial headquarters and actively engage bar councils, civil society, and the public in campaigns for the restoration of the Constitution, rule of law, and democratic governance. Those present at Sunday’s conference included TTAP chief Mahmood
Khan Achakzai, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, PTI leaders Asad Qaiser and Salman Akram Raja, Balochistan National Party (BNP) chief Akhtar Mengal, and other prominent political figures. CM Afridi, who attended the event, said the preparations were being carried out under the directives of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, adding, “We will meet every person and tell them to wait for the second call. We will go to
Rawalpindi, Lahore, KP, and other parts of the country.” The conference declaration emphasised that democracy cannot thrive without free and fair elections. TTAP demanded the immediate appointment of a neutral Chief Election Commissioner, reconstitution of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), and an independent investigation into the February 8 elections to identify and punish “responsible personalities.” Participants criticised the judiciary, alleging that the 26th and 27th Constitutional Amendments had weakened judicial independence. They claimed conscientious judges, including Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Athar Minallah, and Lahore High Court Justice Shams Mehmood Mirza, were forced out, and remaining judges sidelined. Most recently, action against Islamabad High Court Judge Tariq Jahangiri over a fake degree was condemned, with the conference calling for a judiciary restored under the original 1973 Constitution.
Tarar, Sanaullah stress political stability and dialogue for national progress LAHORE
staff report
Interpol drops Pakistan’s extradition request for Zulfi Bukhari, clears PTI leader in terrorism case LONDON
monitoring report
Interpol has withdrawn Pakistan’s request for the extradition of senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) leader Zulfi Bukhari, delivering a significant setback to the Interior Ministry’s efforts to repatriate exiled party figures facing criminal cases. The General Secretariat of the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) confirmed that it has closed its investigation into Bukhari and removed all information related to him from its systems. As a result, Bukhari is no longer subject to any Interpol notice or diffusion, effectively ending international pursuit on Pakistan’s request. Pakistan’s Interior Ministry had approached Interpol in mid-2023 seeking a red notice against Bukhari over allegations of terrorism and other serious offences. Authorities accused him of involvement in violent incidents outside the Islamabad Judicial Complex during court appearances of PTI founder Imran Khan and claimed he played a central role in the Al-Qadir Trust case alongside Khan and Bushra Bibi. In formal communication to Bukhari’s legal team, Interpol stated that after conducting the required checks under its mandate, it decided to delete the information provided by Pakistan. The letter confirmed that Bukhari is currently not wanted under any Interpol mechanism. This follows last month’s decision by Interpol to formally clear PTI leader Moonis Elahi, giving him a clean chit in connection with corruption allegations and ending international pursuit based on Pakistan’s earlier request. Interpol sources indicated that insufficient evidence was found against Moonis to support the claims made by Pakistani authorities. The extradition requests for both Bukhari and Moonis had been part of the Interior Ministry’s efforts under Mohsin Naqvi to repatriate PTI leaders facing allegations of corruption, terrorism, and involvement in high-profile cases. Lawyers for both leaders successfully argued that the cases were politically motivated and lacked credible evidence. The Interpol decisions provide relief for Bukhari and Moonis but are viewed as a significant obstacle to the Interior Ministry’s ongoing campaign to bring exiled PTI leaders to Pakistan for trial. A spokesman for the Interior Ministry declined to comment on the Interpol rulings.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political and Public Affairs, Senator Rana Sanaullah Khan, on Sunday emphasized the critical need for political stability and dialogue as the foundation for sustainable national progress and development. Speaking at a seminar held at Aiwan-e-Iqbal on the 53rd martyrdom anniversary of Khawaja Muhammad Rafique Shaheed, both leaders underlined the urgency of establishing a “charter of politics” to ensure political maturity, tolerance, and stability in Pakistan. The law minister stressed that the proposed charter is not designed for any individual or political party, but solely for the benefit of the homeland. He highlighted that those who had previously manipulated the country’s political destiny were no longer hidden from public scrutiny. Tarar emphasized the importance of embracing criticism, promoting tolerance, and listening to political opponents, noting that Pakistani politics has produced many illustrious leaders, with Khawaja Rafique Shaheed shining as a “bright star” for his dedication to truth, democracy, and the welfare of ordinary citizens. Paying tribute, he said Shaheed consistently raised
Saad Rafique urges Nawaz Sharif to step in, ease political tensions LAHORE
staff report
Senior Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Saad Rafique on Sunday urged the party’s chief and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to take a decisive role in easing political tensions in the country, highlighting that no one is currently willing to provide any guarantee for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. Speaking at a gathering at Aiwan-e-Iqbal on the death anniversary of Khawaja Rafiq Shaheed, Saad Rafique stressed the urgent need for a new political agreement and a fresh “charter of
his voice against injustice, followed a path rooted in love for the country, and left a legacy of courage and integrity. Tarar warned against extremism and violence in politics, urging politicians to act with prudence and wisdom. “Without dialogue, political and economic stability, progress is not possible,” he added, noting that Khawaja Rafique Shaheed sacri-
democracy” to restore dialogue and stability. He emphasized that politicians engaging in dialogue could create an environment where the establishment would also support the process, and that the issue must be addressed seriously at every level. Paying tribute to Khawaja Rafiq Shaheed, Saad Rafique said the late leader’s struggle for truth and democracy remains a guiding light, and reiterated that the use of force could never advance the state. He criticized historical alliances between military generals and feudal elites that branded true patriots as traitors while glorifying those who violated the Constitution.
ficed his life in the struggle to eliminate fascism from the country. Echoing these sentiments, Adviser Senator Rana Sanaullah emphasized that political stability is essential for sustainable development. He highlighted the importance of dialogue, tolerance, and respect for state institutions and condemned attacks on defence installations, stating they could never be justified.
EU welcomes Pakistan’s GSP+ progress, urges sustained reforms ISLAMABAD
staff report
The European Union (EU) has welcomed Pakistan’s progress towards implementing 27 international conventions required under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), while urging Islamabad to sustain reforms ahead of an upcoming monitoring review, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement on Saturday. According to FO’s statement, the 15th Pakistan-EU Joint Commission meeting was held in Brussels on December 17, wherein cooperation between Islamabad and the bloc in several different fields was discussed at length.
The meeting “reviewed Pakistan’s progress on the implementation of the 27 international conventions as required under the GSP+ framework,” the statement read, adding that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended the meeting of the Sub-Group on Democracy, Governance, Rule of Law and Human Rights on December 1. The assessment came as the 15th Pakistan-EU Joint Commission meeting, held in Brussels on December 17, reviewed cooperation across multiple sectors and examined Pakistan’s compliance with human rights, labour rights, governance and environmental commitments tied to the trade incentive.
According to the EU, GSP+ status is a special incentive awarded to developing countries to “pursue sustainable development and good governance” in exchange for cutting import duties to zero on two-thirds of the tariff lines of its exports. Governments with this status need to implement 27 international conventions on human rights, labour rights, good governance and the environment. “The EU welcomed progress made in bringing Pakistan’s application of the death penalty in line with international standards and encouraged further steps in this regard. It also recognised important first steps against torture, as well as the creation of a Commission on Minorities,” the statement said.
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KP minister rejects ‘misleading’ federal figures on provincial transfers
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Special Assistant to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister on Information Shafi Jan on Sunday challenged the federal government’s claims regarding provincial transfers, calling them incomplete and misleading, and highlighting that major financial dues owed to KP remain unpaid. In a statement, he stated that the federal government owes the province nearly Rs4 trillion, with delayed payments spanning several years, while key revenues, including hydropower royalties and windfall levies, have yet to be fully transferred. Mr Jan pointed out that excise duties on petroleum, gas, and tobacco were not being accurately reflected in KP’s share, despite the sector being devolved to the provinces. He also criticized the non-revision of the 7th National Finance Commission (NFC) Award after the merger of the erstwhile tribal districts, which has cost KP roughly Rs1.375 trillion since FY 2018–19. Highlighting the funding gap in merged districts, he said that against the promised Rs700 billion under the Annual Development Programme, only Rs168 billion had been released, while 2025 expenditures for these districts were slashed by over Rs50 billion. On internally displaced persons (IDPs), Mr Jan noted that the announced Rs17 billion for rehabilitation had not yet been released, forcing the provincial government to spend over Rs11 billion from its own resources. Calling for full transparency, he demanded that the federal government disclose complete details of PSDP allocations, NHA projects, and subsidies for all provinces, emphasizing that equitable resource distribution and fiscal federalism were impossible without it. Reacting to a recent Dawn report, Mr Jan described federal claims of economic recovery as inconsistent with ground realities, citing deteriorating GDP growth, human development, and employment indicators. He highlighted Pakistan’s fall to 168th place on the Human Development Index and its low ranking on women’s rights as evidence of failed central policies and excessive federal control.
Nine Khawarij neutralized in DI Khan, Bannu operations: ISPR RAWALPINDI
staff report
Security forces killed nine terrorists belonging to Indian proxy Fitna al-Khwarij in fire exchange during two separate intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the military’s media wing on Sunday. In a statement, the InterServices Public Relations (ISPR) said, “On 19 December 2025, nine khwarij belonging to the Indian proxy Fitna al-Khwarij were killed in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.” Fitna-al-Khawarij is a state-designated term for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). It ISPR said that the first intelligence-based operation (IBO) was carried out on the reported presence of terrorists in the Dera Ismail Khan district of the province. “During the conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged the Khwarij’s location, and after an intense fire exchange, four Khwarij were sent to hell.” The statement said the second IBO was conducted in the Bannu district. “In the ensuing fire exchange, five more Khwarij were effectively neutralized by the security forces.” The ISPR said that weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the slain terrorists, who had remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the security forces, law enforcement agencies, and the target killing of innocent civilians. “Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored Kharji found in the area, as a relentless counterterrorism campaign under the vision of “Azm e Istehkam” (as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan) by the security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” it said.
Pakistan crush arch-rival India by massive 191 runs to clinch U-19 Asia Cup title g
OPENER SAMEER MINHAS HEADLINES TRIUMPH WITH A RECORD-BREAKING KNOCK, SMASHING 172 DUBAI/LAHORE saleem jadoon
Pakistan produced a commanding, titledefining all-round performance to crush arch-rivals India by a massive 191 runs in the final of the U-19 Asia Cup at the ICC Academy Ground on Sunday, sealing the prestigious trophy in emphatic fashion and registering the largest winning margin in a U-19 Asia Cup final. Opener Sameer Minhas headlined the triumph with a record-breaking knock, smashing 172 — the highest individual score in a U-19 Asia Cup final — as Pakistan piled up a daunting 347 for 8 after being asked to bat first. In reply, India’s much-vaunted batting line-up collapsed dramatically, bowled out for just 156 in 26.2 overs, with pacer Ali Raza spearheading the rout through a devas-
tating spell of 4 for 42. The victory marked a sweet redemption for Pakistan, who had suffered a heavy defeat against the same opponents in the group stage and entered the final as underdogs against an unbeaten Indian side. Instead, it was Pakistan who delivered a clinical, ruthless display, outclassing India in every department to lift the trophy amid jubilant celebrations. India captain Ayush Mhatre won the toss and elected to bowl, hoping to exploit early seam movement. However, the decision backfired spectacularly as Sameer launched a brutal assault from the outset. After Hamza Zahoor fell early for 18, Sameer stitched vital partnerships — 92 for the second wicket with Usman Khan (35) and 137 for the third with Ahmed Hussain (56) — to put Pakistan firmly in control. Sameer brought up his century off 71
balls and powered his way to 172 off 113 deliveries, laced with 17 fours and nine sixes, before falling to a slower ball from Deepesh Devendran in the 43rd over. Though Pakistan lost five wickets for 45 runs late on, their total remained the highest ever in a U19 Asia Cup final. Khilan Patel (2-44) and Devendran (383) were the main wicket-takers for India. Chasing 348, India began aggressively, racing to 21 in the first over off Raza, with Vaibhav Suryavanshi striking freely. His explosive 26 off 10 balls briefly raised hopes before disciplined bowling and sharp fielding turned the contest decisively. Raza and Mohammad Sayyam dismantled the top order as India slid to 49 for 3 inside five overs. The collapse accelerated with regular wickets, and despite late resistance from Devendran’s 36 off 16, India never recovered.
Abdul Subhan (2-29) and Huzaifa Ahsan (2-12) provided crucial support as India were bundled out in just 26.2 overs. Man of the Match Sameer Minhas was
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carried on his teammates’ shoulders as Pakistan celebrated a resounding triumph, while India were left to rue a final where everything went wrong.