PAKISTAN, IRAN VOW TO FURTHER ELEVATE TIES AS PRESIDENT CONCLUDES MAIDEN VISIT
to the report the prime minister also expressed his condolences on the martyrdom of Iranian generals, scientists and civilians during the conflict and prayed for the departed souls and the injured for their early recovery He also lauded the Iranian leadership for showing bravery and wisdom during the Israeli aggression and said the Iranian forces and the people faced the aggression and exposed the Israeli defence system with volleys of retaliatory missile attacks PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan s principled stance over Iran s right to a nuclear programme for peaceful purposes under the
MUZAFFARABAD
UN charter saying that Pakistan would stand by its stance In the fight against terrorism he said both sides shared views that it could not be tolerated at any cost If anyone in Iran was affected by terrorism, it was akin to a victim of terror in Pakistan ” he said The premier further said that the two brotherly countries would take effective measures to eliminate terrorism
trial area guest house in Mirpur, which has been declared a sub-jail, he said The Mirpur DIG added that plainclothes policemen from Islamabad came to detain the ex-PM under a first information report (FIR) filed at the Karachi Company police station in the federal capital, but “we did not allow them to take him into custody”
He was also booked under Sections 7 (punishment for terrorism) and 11X (responsibility for creating civil commotion) of the Anti-Terrorism Act and Section 8 (punishment) of the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act
He was arrested under Section 16 of the MPO Moteeb said A team of plainclothes personnel had arrived from Islamabad to take his possessions, but local officials refused to hand them over to them and sent them back ” Moteeb added that Niazi obtained bail from the Islamabad High Court on July 13, which was further extended on July 26 until August 17
Mirpur Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Dr Liaqat Ali said that Niazi was arrested under Section 16 (dissemination of rumours) of the MPO under the orders of the Mirpur deputy commissioner He is being held at the indus-
s ta f f r e p o r t Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi, was arrested on Sunday over violations of the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance (MPO) the police confirmed According to police officials Niazi was detained in the Samahni area of Bhimber district when he arrived to address a protest rally Footage circulating online shows a heavy police presence surrounding him with visible tensions and heated exchanges between PTI supporters and law enforcement officers Sardar Moteeb, Niazi s nephew, confirmed that his uncle was arrested while heading to Bhimber city from Samahni to attend a PTI rally related to the campaign demanding the release of party founder Imran Khan from prison
DIG Dr Ali added that Niazi left Mirpur last night and headed to Bhimber to attend rallies
Apart from Niazi, two other PTI office bearers from Kotli district, Malik Nisar and Dr Shahnawaz, were also taken into custody ” he added
Niazi in 2022 tendered his resignation from his office to defuse the move by his parliamentary party the PTI, to replace him with regional president Sardar Tanveer Ilyas through a vote of no-confidence The MPO law in Pakistan allows authorities to detain individuals without trial for up to 90 days to prevent threats to public peace and safety
SENATE PANEL QUESTIONS L AND ALLOTMENTS, SEEKS URGENT DECISION ON PAKISTAN STEEL MILLS’ FUTURE
TCement despatches
Finance Ministr y seeks audit of TCP loans amid high markup concerns
In parallel, National Fertilizer Marketing Limited (NFML) owes Rs53 billion with a 50:50 cost-sharing mechanism agreed between the federal and provincial governments From the federal share of Rs26 billion, only Rs10 billion is currently available However, the Ministry of Commerce has not yet moved the required summary to release funds the Finance Division confirmed Officials stressed that reconciliation among all stakeholders is a prerequisite before any disbursement or adjustment of funds The Finance Division urged the Ministries of Commerce and Industries to expedite coordination with provincial departments and provide the required reconciled data
TCP informed the panel that prior to 2018 there was no formal system for reconciling such transactions but this has since been corrected with all recent agreements involving NFML now documented TCP is responsible for procurement and associated interest liabilities while NFML and provincial authorities handle the distribution of urea The Ministry of Industries is expected to secure budget allocations from the Finance Division to cover these costs The National Assembly committee expressed alarm over the rising interest burden particularly as the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) had not specified any markup provisions in its approvals TCP, however, countered that the ECC summaries implicitly included credit arrangements, processed through the State Bank of Pakistan with full awareness that interest would apply
through U S diplomatic intervention Despite France’s Air Chief confirming the loss of the Rafale the Modi government continued to deny the incident marking the first time a Rafale fighter jet had been downed in warfare This denial dealt a serious reputational blow to India s military and political leadership The report concludes that the failure in Operation Sindoor was a result of flawed Indian planning and an overreliance on highprofile defense acquisitions which were ultimately outmatched by Pakistan s adaptive and integrated warfighting approach
The leadership of Jammu and Kashmir Community International (JKCI) and All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together for the realization of Kashmiris’
humanitarian, and military situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir
The JKCI delegation included General Secretary Raja Pervez Khan Vice Chairman Lal Hussain Rajput Secretary Finance Chaudhry Shakeel, Secretary Publication Syed Yousuf Hamdani, and Executive Members Sardar Siddique
President Zardari, Iranian counterpar t agree to fur ther broaden bilateral cooperation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
President Zardari also thanked Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for his consistent support for the people of Indian-occupied Kashmir President Zardari strongly condemned the unprovoked Israeli aggression against Iran and lauded the bravery and unity of the Iranian nation during the recent 12-day war the statement added He expressed hope that President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian s visit would further solidify the brotherly relations between the two countries President Pezeshkian thanked the leadership and people of Pakistan for their support during the 12-day war and appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in advocating deescalation dialogue and diplomacy for the peaceful resolution of disputes the statement concluded Iranian President and Chairman Senate agree to strengthen bilateral relations Earlier, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani met with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian where both leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance regional cooperation The meeting underscored shared commitment to peace economic collaboration, and mutual respect for sovereignty, with a focus on deepening parliamentary and peopleto-people ties The high-level meeting was attended by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq Senators Saleem Mandviwalla and Irfan Siddiqui and MNA Naveed Qamar Discussions revolved around strengthening fraternal ties promoting peace and stability in the region, and boosting economic cooperation The Senate Chairman lauded Iran s bold stance against Israeli aggression, highlighting Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic efforts for regional peace and development He reaffirmed Pakistan s support for Iran s right to self-defense and noted that both houses of Pakistan s Parliament had passed resolutions condemning Israeli actions Gillani reiterated Pakistan s support for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and expressed a desire to further bolster parliamentary relations He also thanked the Iranian president for the hospitality extended to Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iran President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan s support and emphasized Iran s readiness to cooperate in trade, economic development, and investment
Villages in Jhang flooded as River C henab bursts its banks again
N e w s D e s k
Low-lying areas in Jhang have been flooded for the second time after the River Chenab burst its banks, causing widespread damage The water level at Trimmu Barrage has been recorded at 80,000 cusecs, contributing to the severe flooding Meanwhile flash flooding is feared in Murree Galyat Rawalpindi and north-eastern Punjab as the sixth monsoon spell is set to impact the region from tomorrow August 4 The spell is expected to bring heavy rains through August 7, intensifying after merging with a westerly wave
According to a spokesman for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the system’s impact could lead to flash flooding in nullahs and streams originating from the major rivers of the province Additionally landslides are feared in the mountainous areas of Murree and Galyat From August 4 to August 7, rains are expected to affect several districts, including Murree, Galyat, Rawalpindi, At-
tock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Jhang Sahiwal Toba Tek Singh Khushab Sargodha Mianwali Nankana Chiniot Faisalabad and Okara On August 6 showers are likely to hit Dera Ghazi Khan Bhakar Bahawalpur Khanewal Vehari Lodhran and Rajanpur
In response, PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has issued alerts to commissioners and deputy commissioners of the province, warning of urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, and Sialkot Flash flooding in nullahs and streams is also anticipated
The PDMA DG has instructed Civil Defence Rescue 1122 and other concerned departments to ensure that all emergency arrangements are in place He further directed that emergency control room staff remain vigilant Kathia has urged the public, especially tourists, to exercise caution, avoid crumbling structures and electricity poles and refrain from unnecessary travel He advised against crossing swollen streams and nullahs and urged people to contact the helpline number 1129 in case of emergencies
Pakistan, Iran vow to fur ther elevate ties as President concludes maiden
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
The prime minister on behalf of the people and the government of Pakistan welcomed the president on his maiden visit to Pakistan In his remarks, President Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for the position adopted by the parliament, government and the people of Pakistan for supporting Iran during the 10-day Israeli aggression He said the bonds of affinities and affection between the two countries and nations were deeply rooted in religion, culture and history, citing poetic verses of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, in which he stressed upon unity among the Muslim countries Advancing the neighbourhood policy is among the priorities of Iran s foreign policy as Pakistan is not only our neighbour but also a brotherly country, he added The president expressed his satisfaction that, fortunately, serious and sincere efforts were being initiated by both sides
for cooperation in diverse fields, and to take their current trade volume of $3bn to the projected target of $10bn
President Pezeshkian said that his government was determined to take steps to implement these agreements while the development of land sea and air routes would facilitate trade
Earlier during the bilateral meeting, which took place before the joint press briefing, both sides discussed the broad aspects of their bilateral ties brotherly relations religious and cultural ties and held comprehensive talks to further boost them
Upon arrival at the Prime Minister House, President Pezeshkian was received by the Prime Minister and presented a guard of honour followed by the official welcome ceremony
The two leaders then held talks in a narrow format followed by delegation level talks between the two sides During the talks, the Prime Minister was assisted
by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as well as other important Federal Ministers Ministers of State and senior government officials
The Prime Minister emphasized the need to further expand the existing wideranging bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Iran, particularly in the areas of trade, connectivity, culture and people-topeople contacts In this regard the Prime Minister called for early convening of the 22nd Joint Economic Commission between Pakistan and Iran which is expected to be held soon Both leaders discussed a number of ini-
COMMENT
Iranian President comes calling
Targeting a trade increase to be centrepiece of visit
TH E topics to be covered by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during his maiden visit to Pakistan, can be gauged from the ministers accompanying him, Apart from the Foreign Minister and Defence Ministers there is also the minister for industry and mining as well as the governor of Iran’s SeistanBalochistan province That means that Iran wants to talk about defence cooperation, it also wants to talk specifically about the opportunities in Pakistan for mining At the same time there is also the need for discussion about the handling of the separatist problem on both sides of the border, which is presently not united, but where each s separatists has got safe havens in the other s territory
Another pressing aspect of the relationship is the security dimension Iran is up against Israel and the USA over the allegation that it is developing nuclear weapons Pakistan has found itself in need of Iran in the recent confrontation against India, and when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif embarked on a thank-you tour, Iran was one of the destinations Similarly when Iran’s nuclear facilities and national leadership was bombed first by Israel and then the USA, Pakistan made public avowals of support for Iran, and private efforts for the ceasefire that finally brought that clash to an end Another shared factor for both countries is their friendship with China and specifically their cooperation with it, particularly in defence While both Iran and China find their differences with the USA driving them together Pakistan’s desire to stay on the right side of the USA has led in a somewhat different direction, to the extent that it has not completed the gas pipeline from Iran, from fear of US sanctions One of the main aspects of the relationship is their shared border It does just involve each other ’s separatists, though that is a major subject There is also the aspect of smuggling It should not be forgotten that if there were beneficiaries on the Pakistani side there were others on the Iranian Unless both sides are to launch crackdowns together, and closely coordinated at that, one side s crackdown
Dedicated to the legac y of late Hameed Nizami Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
M A Niazi Editor Pakistan Today Babar Nizami Editor Profit
Ring and tourists stranded due to landslides in Kaghan Valley and Babusar Top In Gilgit-Baltistan highlevel floods inundated villages and destroyed infrastructure, forcing mass evacuations Urban flooding hit Rawalpindi and Islamabad hard, where water entered homes and swept away multiple victims Authorities have issued glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) alerts for KP and GB warning of continued rain and increased risk of landslides flash floods and infrastructure damage Relief operations are underway nationwide, with NDMA coordinating rescue missions, setting up relief camps, and distributing food and supplies, with all departments on high alert to ensure swift relief for affected populations The scale of destruction highlights Pakistan’s deepening vulnerability to climate-driven monsoon extremes This recurring cycle of climate catastrophe is no longer just a natural challenge it is now a structural and existential crisis Pakistan, despite contributing less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, finds itself on the frontlines of a global climate emergency Every year it bears the disproportionate burden of rising temperatures melting glaciers erratic rainfall patterns and devastating floods The most vulnerable children women and the poor suffer first and suffer
broken political priorities both international and domestic It is time for the world to act, not with sympathy but with responsibility Wealthy nations that built their prosperity on fossil fuels must deliver on climate financing promises not just mitigation support for green energy but also adaptation funds to build resilience in climate-vulnerable countries like
did not cause the climate crisis to be left alone in bearing its most catastrophic
consequences But while the international community must step up Pakistan cannot afford to wait for aid to prepare for its future Climate change is not a distant threat, it is a lived reality The monsoon now brings not just rain, but ruin The country needs a national emergency strategy that treats climate change as the gravest threat to national security economic development and public health This begins with strengthening early warning systems expanding and training disaster response units, reinforcing vulnerable infrastructure, and relocating communities from high-risk zones Urban planning must be radically overhauled Unregulated construction in floodplains and mountainous areas must stop Drainage systems in major cities need massive investment and reengineering Emergency shelters must be established and stocked before the crisis hits not after In rural and mountainous regions, deforestation has increased the frequency of landslides,
Punjab and KP in contrast
It could hold major emitters accountable for the harm they ve caused not only to the environment but to the livelihoods of millions For Pakistan, the ICJ advisory opinion isn’t just an academic exercise; it’s a matter of life and death As floods droughts and heatwaves become more frequent and severe Pakistan s human and economic costs continue to mount The 2022 floods alone caused $30 billion in damage; an amount that far exceeds the country’s annual GDP Pakistan has long been an advocate for climate justice pushing for loss and damage compensation and greater financial assistance from wealthier nations The ICJ s opinion could serve as a legal foundation for these demands giving Pakistan stronger grounds to demand financial reparations and technical support from high-emitting countries It could also provide a pathway for the country to seek compensation for the damages it’s already suffering from the climate crisis
The ICJ s advisory opinion could lay the groundwork for a new era of climate accountability in international law If the Court rules that states have legal obligations to prevent climate harm, countries like the USA, China, and India could be legally compelled to reduce emissions more aggressively or face potential legal challenges in international courts Pakistan has been vocal in its support for the advisory opinion and rightly so As one of
the world s most vulnerable nations, Pakistan is uniquely positioned to push for a broader interpretation of international law that links climate action to human rights Climate inaction Pakistan can argue directly violates the rights to life water food and health rights enshrined in international treaties and conventions
The ICJ s advisory opinion could become a cornerstone of international climate governance, reshaping how nations view their legal obligations in the face of climate change For Pakistan the opportunity is clear: the opinion could help drive a much-needed paradigm shift from reactive disaster management to proactive climate justice
Rather than simply addressing the symptoms of climate change, the world would need to grapple with its root causes, including the historical emissions of industrialized nations and their role in creating the conditions for today’s climate crisis By holding states accountable for the impacts of their carbon emissions the ICJ could establish a new framework for global climate reparations, one that acknowledges both the ecological debt owed to countries like Pakistan and the need for solidarity in addressing a crisis that affects us all
As the ICJ s advisory opinion draws nearer the global community must recognize the significance of this moment The court s decision could become one of the most influential legal rulings of our time not just for the future of climate diplomacy, but for the future of the planet itself For Pakistan it represents a critical opportunity to demand justice for the communities bearing the brunt of climate change s devastating effects Pakistan has long been a champion of climate action, but now it needs more than words, it needs legal action The ICJ s opinion may be just the beginning of a new, more accountable era in global climate governance The question is: will the world’s polluters heed the call?
The writer is an environmental lawyer and climate change campaigner
As the ICJÊs advisory opinion draws nearer, the global community must recognize the significance of this moment The courtÊs
Sarmad Iqbal
Honour before humanit y
A t ra d i t i o n t h at exe c u te s wo m e n
about and cover up thousands more Women, girls, and occasionally even men were put to death for the crime of love, for refusing to comply, or for choosing a path that their families disapproved of Fathers suffocating their daughters Sisters are being shot by brothers Wives are burned by their husbands And whole villages complicit standing silent Blood is at stake in this war, and the murderer is not an unknown individual It’s family The Supreme Court of Pakistan has banned jirgas or informal tribal councils but they still function in both urban slums and large rural areas There is no legal standing for these councils They function outside of Pakistan s legal system However, they execute people without consequence, which is frequently applauded by entire communities In November 2023 a jirga in Kohistan ordered the murder of a teenage girl for her appearance in a video that went viral Earlier this year a newlywed couple in Balochistan were shot dead in public after a jirga ordered their execution These aren t relics from the past These are executions taking place in the present day while being overseen by a state that turns a blind eye “Arrests are not enough ” Amnesty International said in its condemnation of Pakistan s failure to dismantle these unlawful parallel courts It is necessary to dismantle rather than engage in negotiations with the tribal councils that serve as execution chambers The state’s incapacity to deal with jirgas isn’t because of a lack of legislation but rather because of a paralysis of will and a fear of upending the patriarchal feudal systems that have solidified their hold on power over many generations These murders are slow They are made to send a message as well as to take away a life Before being suffocated Sidra Bibi endured torture Her grave was flattened to
conceal the evidence, and her broken and bruised body was hurriedly buried In a classic honour killing intended to demonstrate dominance and retaliation Sana and Sajid were shot at close range their bodies left side by side each with a bullet through the head Couples have been publicly shot and paraded in Balochistan, as though their deaths were a show These performances are staged The brutality is intentional Because this is about cleansing not just killing Only a family’s own blood can cleanse its stained honour Even more horrifying is the fact that these killings are carried out in public as warnings to others: disobey us, and you will suffer the consequences On paper, Pakistan has taken action to stop honour killings The loophole that permitted families to “forgive” the murderer who was frequently a family member was closed in 2016 Honour killings were deemed to be non-compoundable offenses The purpose of the law was to mark a sea change However, laws are useless if the system that upholds them is weakened by societal acceptance legal indifference and cultural fear Police frequently decline to file FIRs Witnesses do not speak As entire communities band together to shield the murderers, courts witness cases falling apart due to lack of evidence A country is living in denial of its humanity if it is unable to defend its daughters When the killers are hailed as heroes in their communities what good is a law? When under the pretence of honour jirga leaders continue to hold court and impose death sentences for family conflicts, property issues, and personal grudges, emboldened by the state’s silence? A pervasive cultural decay is at the core of this crisis The notion that a woman’s life is not as valuable as the honour of her family That a father is insulted by a daughter s decision That a man s pet peeve is a woman s love These killings are celebrated by entire
e mu s t n o t bu r y a ny m o r e . N o t u n d e r o u r n a m e s . N e v e r a g a i n .
T h e S u p r e m e C o u r t o f Pa k i s t a n h a s b a n n e d j i r g a s , o r
i n fo r m a l t r i b a l c o u n c i l s , bu t t h e y s t i l l f u n c t i o n i n b o t h u r b a n s l u m s a n d l a r g e r u r a l a r e a s T h e r e i s n o l e g a l
s t a n d i n g fo r t h e s e c o u n c i l s T h e y f u n c t i o n o u t s i d e o f
Pa k i s t a n Ês l e g a l s y s t e m H o w e v e r, t h e y e x e c u t e p e o p l e
w i t h o u t c o n s e q u e n c e , w h i c h i s f r e q u e n t l y a p p l a u d e d by e n t i r e c o m mu n i t i e s
families The murderers are exalted by the community as upholding tradition The word “murder” is frequently diluted in media reports, which refer to them as “incidents” or “disputes ” as though the victims deserved their fate This is more than just a court error It is a crime against society Blood is demanded by a cultural conspiracy to protect ego The complicity is active rather than passive It becomes evident that honor killings are not carried out covertly when neighbors remain silent witnesses when local politicians decline to denounce these crimes and when police offer condolences rather than make arrests They are celebrated during the day It
and authorities who see these killings as corrections rather than crimes whisper
M e a r s h e i m e r d i s s e c t s I s r a e l ’ s d e a d e n d
JO H N J Mearsheimer is without question the most influential voice in contemporary realist theory in international relations A professor at the University of Chicago and architect of the so-called “offensive realism” theory he argues that the international system – lacking any effective supranational authority pushes states into an inevitable and brutal competition for power
In his view international politics is not and cannot be a realm governed by ideals or abstract norms, but a chessboard where strategic interests, security, and survival determine the actions of state actors
This perspective – alongside his harsh self-critique of U S foreign policy – has made him a controversial figure especially due to his sharp questioning of Israel s role in the region and Washington s complicity in the Palestinian tragedy Mearsheimer s recent interview with Tucker Carlson – along with recent public debates, lectures, and essays reopens the still-bleeding wound of West Asia and forces an uncomfortable reckoning with the real causes and consequences of regional geopolitics
ISRAEL: EXPANSIONIST STRATEGY POWER LOGIC AND STRUCTURAL FAILURE: For Mearsheimer, Israel s strategy follows a ruthless logic: maximize power at any cost and neutralize any threat to Tel Aviv s regional dominance According to his diagnosis, the Zionist project rests on four pillars: territorial expansion, the systematic expulsion of Palestinians the active destabilization of neighboring states and the securing of unlimited military political and diplomatic backing from the United States
From its inception Israeli leaders – Mearsheimer explains – have pursued a policy that fuses overwhelming military force with an uncompromising demand for loyalty from Washington Military campaigns in Gaza, and interventions in Lebanon and Syria align with the broader goal of consolidating Israeli power by dismantling all forms of organized resistance
The recent assault on Gaza – bluntly described by Mearsheimer as genocide – follows the long-standing premise that only mass violence, or the threat of extermination, can achieve the definitive expulsion of the Palestinian population that continues to resist According to the realist, Israel has never sought to kill all Palestinians, but rather to make life so unbearable that they are forced into exile – a gradual policy of ethnic cleansing justified through the rhetoric of national security This plan he emphasizes is always executed under American protection which blocks international condemnation and guarantees Israel s impunity despite flagrant violations of international law Washington has thus, in Mearsheimer ’s words, abandoned its own national interests in favor of an “Israel First” foreign policy driven by the powerful pro-Israel lobby
REGIONAL DESTABILIZATION AS DOCTRINE: SYRIA, IRAN, AND THE KURDISH MIRAGE: Mearsheimer s analysis goes beyond the Israel–Palestine binary and delves into the regional scope of Israeli strategy A key component of this strategy, he argues, has been the systematic erosion of the integrity of neighboring states especially Syria and Iran Mearsheimer clearly states that Israel has rarely settled for mere regime change in Tehran or Damascus Its underlying goal – long disguised by arguments of self-defense –
Syria served as a laboratory for this approach: open and covert interventions sowing chaos and turning the country into a patchwork of warring enclaves In the Iranian case Tel Aviv s obsession centers on exploiting ethnic fault lines and supporting separatist movements – such as the Kurdish project – to weaken key regional actors and subject them, directly or indirectly, to U S influence
IRAN: RATIONAL ACTOR, STRATEGIC RESISTANCE AND THE NUCLEAR DILEMMA: While Western media typically portray Iran as a source of instability and obscurantism, Mearsheimer s realist lens encourages a different reading Iran, he argues, is neither irrational nor suicidal, but rather a state that responds to existential pressure with policies of deterrence and resistance Far from seeking Israel’s total destruction the Iranian government prioritizes survival national sovereignty and the maintenance of a legitimate sphere of influence amid growing hostility Tehran s military responses – targeted calculated, and focused on military objectives – demonstrate, in the political scientist s view, a strategic sophistication that defies the usual clichés In practice, it is Iran that acts as the essential counterbalance to Israeli excesses and prevents the region from falling under a forced pax Israeliana Israel s obsession with preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities – at any cost – is according to Mearsheimer, a reflection of its refusal to accept any regional balance of power U S involvement in the containment and sanction strategy has only further entrenched positions
THE U S ROLE: COMPLICITY, IMPOTENCE, AND MORAL COLLAPSE: Mearsheimer draws an unflinching portrait of U S policy in West Asia His indictment is blunt: Washington seduced by a misguided Atlanticism and pressured by the pro-Israel lobby, has relinquished its supposed role as an impartial power and instead become a willing accomplice in the region’s unfolding tragedy
The U S serves as the military financial and political guarantor of Israel’s agenda but at an enormous cost: the erosion of moral authority discredit in the eyes of Muslim societies and constant exposure of its soldiers diplomats and interests to a conflict it has itself inflamed With every assault on Gaza or Lebanon, with every act of sabotage against Iran, anti-American hostility deepens, and Washington’s capacity for dialogue shrinks
CONSEQUENCES AND PROSPECTS: STRATEGIC
COLLAPSE AND ISRAEL S DEAD END: The diagnosis allows no room for illusions According to Mearsheimer Israel now faces a dead end Every vector of its strategy shows deep and perhaps irreparable cracks: military and moral exhaustion in Gaza; an inability to defeat Hamas or contain Hezbollah; the risk of a prolonged war with Iran whose consequences could be disastrous even for a regime as militarized as Israel; and internal fractures pushing Israeli society to the brink of civil war Israel s structural dependence on the United States – for resources, legitimacy, and diplomatic cover – highlights the regime’s real vulnerability, no matter how much its image continues to be associated with strength and resilience
Without U S support Mearsheimer warns Israel would struggle to sustain its project in the medium term
The double standard practiced by the West – especially by Europe and the United States – in its unconditional support for Israel has destroyed bridges with potential partners and weakened all prospects for a balanced, lasting dialogue The cost is incalculable, both in human lives and in geopolitical legitimacy
WHAT KIND OF GREAT POWER WILL INDIA BE?
The Quad power
AS Ashley Tellis makes clear India s long-held strategy of promoting a multipolar world order has become counterproductive for New Delhi The concept of a multipolar order is seductive to Indian policymakers who think India would have more influence if global power were dispersed Such calculations may have made sense 25 years ago when India with its rapid economic growth seemed poised to challenge China s influence in Asia In the last two decades, however, China has widened the power gap with India considerably, in economic as well as military terms That deficit means that India’s vision of a multipolar order in which power is evenly distributed among a handful of countries is no longer realistic Worse seeking such an order now plays directly into China s hands China and Russia both push for a multipolar world to overturn international norms and institutions that have largely kept the peace in the Indo-Pacific for the last 50 years Far from aiding India s rise multipolarity would only confirm Chinese hegemony in Asia and make India more vulnerable to Chinese aggression A shrewder policy would have India reaffirm the importance of the U S -led rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region Despite the growing economic gap between India and China New Delhi can still play an important role in shaping geopolitical trends and acting
Iran’s militar y chief says Israeli threats persist
A 1% threat must be treated as 100%, warns Hatami, urging against underestimating the enemy or ignoring its threats
TEHRAN AG E N C E S
The commander-in-chief of Iran s military, Amir Hatami, said on Sunday that threats from Israel persist, according to state media In June, Israel and the US launched strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during the so-called 12-day war in which Tehran retaliated against Israel with several barrages of missiles and drones A 1% threat must be perceived as a 100% threat We should not underestimate the enemy and consider its threats as over, Hatami said, according to the official IRNA news agency, adding that the Islamic Republic’s missile and drone power “remains standing and ready for operations” Last month Israeli Minister of Defence Israel Katz warned that his country would strike Iran again if threatened According to Iran International website he said Tel Aviv s
pursue its military and scientific development with more resolve than ever The comments come amid lingering regional tensions and follow the killing of senior Iranian military figures in Israeli strikes Another strong quake strikes Russia’s Kuril Islands with 7.0 magnitude
Bangladesh protest victim gives evidence at ex-PM Hasina’s trial
The first witness, among the 11 cases that the prosecution is expected to present to the court, was Khokon Chandra Barman, whose story reflects the violence of the protests
The 23-year-old wears a mask to conceal his face which was ripped apart by a gunshot during the culmination of the protests on August 5, 2024, the same day that Hasina fled Dhaka by helicopter
“I want justice for the ordeal I’ve been going through and for my fellow protesters who sacrificed their lives he told the court Barman lost his left eye, while his right eye was damaged, as well as his lips, nose and teeth A video
showing Barman s blood-covered face was played in court, with the opening statements aired on the state-run broadcaster Prosecutors have filed five charges against Hasina including failure to prevent mass murder which amount to crimes against humanity under Bangladeshi law
“Sheikh Hasina was the nucleus around whom all the crimes committed during the July-August uprising revolved chief prosecutor Tajul Islam told the court on Sunday Hasina is on trial in absentia alongside two other accused One, her former interior minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal is also a fugitive The other Chowd-
hury Abdullah Al-Mamun, the former inspector general of police, is in custody He has pleaded guilty Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman said he wanted a fair trial speaking to reporters outside the court People were killed and maimed, we demand the highest punishment for the crimes committed,” Asaduzzaman said Amir Hossain the state-appointed lawyer for Hasina noted that Barman was shot during the chaotic final day of the weeks-long protests He pointed out that several police officers were also killed in clashes with protesters and it was “unclear who actually shot Barman”
Hamas rejec ts disarmament amid renewed push
Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) which initially measured the quake at 6 35 magnitude before revising it The United States Geological Survey (USGS) later confirmed the earthquake at magnitude 7 0 The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no tsunami threat following the quake calming fears of a repeat of the earlier episode that triggered mass evacuations However, Russian news agencies reported that a tsunami warning was temporarily issued in three districts of the Kamchatka region as a precautionary measure Authorities did not report any casualties or significant damage from the latest quake as of the filing of this report The Kuril Islands a volcanic archipelago stretching from Japan s Hokkaido to Russia s Kamchatka Peninsula, lie within the Pacific Ring of Fire an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity The seismic event comes shortly after a devastating 8 0magnitude earthquake struck off the Kamchatka coast late Wednesday That quake one of the strongest in the region s recent history prompted widespread tsunami advisories across the Pacific basin, including parts of the U S West Coast, Japan, and the Hawaiian Islands
QUDRAT ULLAH
On August 5 2025 as Pakistan solemnly observes Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir, the nation once again renews its commitment to the people of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IoJK) This day is not merely a symbolic gesture it is a moral imperative a reaffirmation of solidarity with a people whose voices have been systematically silenced under the weight of state-sponsored repression
Youm-e-Istehsal, commemorated annually marks the sixth anniversary of India’s unilateral revocation of Article 370 which stripped occupied Jammu and Kashmir of its constitutionally enshrined autonomy This act, driven by a Hindutva-inspired ideology under the BJP-led government, was not only legally questionable but morally indefensible It sought to dissolve the unique political identity of Kashmir an identity forged through history sacrifice and unrelenting struggle Kashmir is not simply a territorial dispute or a residual wound of partition; it is a living testament to human endurance in the face of structural violence For over seven decades, the people of Kashmir have endured military occupation demographic engineering and systemic disenfranchisement yet their resolve re-
mains unshaken Kashmir ’s story is not just one of suffering; it is one of resistance, of refusing to be erased The roots of the Kashmir conflict lie in the turbulent aftermath of the 1947 partition of British India Princely states were given the choice to accede to either India or Pakistan, based on geographic contiguity and the will of the people Given its Muslim-majority population and cultural affinity with Pakistan Jammu and Kashmir ’s natural trajectory seemed clear However Maharaja Hari Singh s controversial accession to India under opaque and contested circumstances ignited a conflict that continues to haunt South Asia
In response, the United Nations adopted a series of resolutions in 1948 and 1949 explicitly calling for a free and impartial plebiscite to allow the Kashmiri people to determine their political future That promise remains unfulfilled, buried beneath layers of realpolitik, diplomatic inertia, and global indifference Meanwhile India’s abrogation of Article 370 on August 5 2019 marked a seismic shift in the political landscape of Kashmir The move dissolved Jammu & Kashmir
State s nominal autonomy, replacing it with direct federal control and unleashing a cascade of repressive measures: communications blackouts mass arrests media
censorship, and an intensified military presence This was not an administrative reform it was an ideological project aimed at redefining Kashmir s Muslim identity and forcibly integrating it into the Hindu nationalist vision of India Human rights watchdogs Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the United Nations have documented widespread abuses: arbitrary detentions enforced disappearances extrajudicial killings and the brutal use of pellet guns which have maimed and blinded hundreds including women and children The psychological scars inflicted by this campaign of terror will echo across generations Yet, despite relentless oppression, the spirit of Kashmir endures Resistance takes many forms: from protests and civil disobedience to poetry music and digital storytelling Artists like Agha Shahid Ali and rappers like MC Kash have weaponized words against bullets, preserving the Kashmiri narrative and keeping hope alive through the power of cultural expression In a world that often forgets these voices are a moral compass reminding us of Kashmir s unyielding quest for justice Pakistan s support for the Kashmiri cause transcends political expediency; it is rooted in fundamental principles of justice, dignity and the right of all peoples to deter-
mine their destiny At the United Nations General Assembly, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and other international forums Pakistan has consistently raised its voice against India s transgressions and in defense of the Kashmiri people The observance of August 5, 2025, is not merely ceremonial it is a manifestation of Pakistan’s enduring solidarity Through policy statements awareness campaigns and nationwide rallies the Pakistani state particularly the Punjab government has worked to keep the Kashmir issue at the forefront of national consciousness
The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has played a particularly commendable role in highlighting the plight of the Kashmiri people Her government s efforts ranging from public advocacy to the provision of scholarships to Kashmiri students reflect a serious and sustained commitment to turning words into action By institutionalizing support, Punjab has set an example for how provincial governments can meaningfully contribute to national causes Such initiatives not only uplift the morale of the oppressed but also serve to remind the international community that Kashmir is not forgotten The political, moral, and humanitarian
79th Independence Day Celebrations gear up across Punjab
Chiniot Sargodha and Chakwal In Jhelum Chief Minister s Advisor for Health Major General Azhar Kayani (Retd) attended the Independence Day ceremony, and cut a cake of Pakistan's birthday He alongside others also attended a ceremony in which a specially-prepared several-meter-long flag was unveiled Special ceremonies of hoisting national flag on buildings and decorating houses with flags and bunting are also being held Various ceremonies are also being held in schools Government and private buildings are being illuminated in connection with the Independence Day celebrations Children are
participating in the Independence Day celebrations A large number of people came out on the streets to see these beautiful decorations
Governor Tessori champions youth
at Carpe Diem Awards
s ta f f r e p o r t Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori today lauded Carpe
f r e p o r t
R A N I A N Minister for Roads & Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, who accompanied the Iranian President on official visit to Pakistan participated in a joint session held with Pakistan’s Federal Ministers for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Railways Hanif Abbasi The discussions focused on strengthening the longstanding friendly and bilateral relations between the two countries, particularly by enhancing transportation, connectivity network and road infrastructure
During the meeting interest was expressed by Iran in joining the Silk Road initiative with Pakistan and China and discussed expanding maritime trade via the Gwadar-Chabahar Route Welcoming the Iranian delegation Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan congratulated Iran on his great success & firm stance against Israel, describing
others in their pursuits strengthens the community, he observed Governor Tessori advised youth to embrace Artificial Intelligence, highlighting its growing importance in the rapidly evolving technological landscape He encouraged attendees to cultivate optimism and trust in divine providence assuring them Success will
One of Pakistan s largest business conglomerates Nishat Group through its subsidiary Nexgen Auto, has officially introduced the renowned automotive giant Chery International’s global brand OMODA and JAECOO to the local market At a high-profile launch event held at Expo Centre Lahore OMODA and JAECOO unveiled their highly anticipated electric vehicle models, the Omoda E5 and Jaecoo J6 along with compelling pricing Demonstrating Nishat Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence the event was executed with precision and vision The showcase of the future lineup reflected the Nishat Group’s clear vision and strategic planning for the automotive industry The lineup featured the Jaecoo J5 Jaecoo J7 and Omoda C7 each model thoughtfully selected to cater to the evolving needs of Pakistan s automotive consumers
The launch represents a pivotal moment in Nexgen Auto s mission to transform mobility in Pakistan through cutting-edge technology, eco-conscious design, and intelligent performance With OMODA and JAECOO the company is introducing global innovation and a modern driving experience to local roads, setting a new benchmark in the market The event was attended by senior political leaders environmental advocates and prominent automotive influencers, highlighting the significance of this milestone in shaping the country’s electric vehicle
SSP Operations holds meeting with SHOs
ations Islamabad issued clear directives to the officers stressing the need to tighten the noose around criminal gangs and ensure the arrest of their absconding members He directed that the data of accused involved in property-related crimes should be compiled and their arrests must be carried out without delay He further directed that all under investigation cases must be concluded on merit and challans should be submitted to the competent courts at the earliest Officers were also told to keep strict surveillance on previously released accused involved in property crimes and to re-arrest them immediately if they commit any new offenses
Police mar tyrs are our pride, says CCPO
LAHORE s ta f f r e p o r t
Capital City Police Officer Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana paid rich tribute to the martyred Policemen in a message issued today on the occasion of Police Martyrs’ Day He said “Those who laid down their lives in the line of duty are our pride and our honor August 4 re-
minds us of the ultimate sacrifices made by our brave police martyrs ” Highlighting the legacy of Lahore Police CCPO stated “The history of Lahore Police is adorned with the sacrifices of our brave Jawans A total of 342 martyrs from Lahore Police have given their lives for the nation He added that Lahore Police stands as the frontline defender of
public life, property and dignity “The memory of our martyrs will always live in our hearts,” he emphasized Calling today a day of renewed commitment to the families of the fallen Kamyana assured that the sacrifices of the martyrs would never be forgotten Their heroism will always be remembered,” he affirmed
ISLAMABAD
Fa positive development and announced that a meeting of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission would be convened soon to further strengthen trade links Iranian Minister of Commerce Mohammad Atabak also addressed the forum, which saw participation from top leadership of both countries including Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar
s ta f f r e p o r t
Pakistan and China on Sunday formalized a new partnership agreement to enhance bilateral economic cooperation, a crucial step in supporting Uraan Pakistan the country s ambitious initiative to become a $1 trillion economy by 2035
The agreement reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, and Lu Hao, President of China’s Development Research Center (DRC) and Centre for International Knowledge on Development (CIKD) will foster collaboration in key areas such as trade, digital transformation, infrastructure, and energy Minister Iqbal stressed that the partnership with China is essential for the success of Uraan Pakistan which focuses on five critical areas: exports digital transformation environmental sustainability, energy and infrastructure development, and equity and empowerment
Through this agreement, Pakistan will benefit from joint research training programs and expert exchanges with China all aimed at accelerating Pakistan s economic development
Iqbal further noted that the long-standing political relationship between Pakistan and China has already transformed into a comprehensive economic and social
partnership particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) He highlighted that Pakistan is eager to learn from China s success in export-led growth and sustainable development, using China’s experience as a model for its own economic strategy
The Minister pointed to positive economic indicators in Pakistan such as the reduction in the policy rate from 23% to 11% and the Pakistan Stock Exchange surpassing 140,000 points, all of which are aligned with the goals of Uraan Pakistan These developments have been acknowledged by international institutions as signs of the country s progress
Additionally, Iqbal emphasized that while China imports nearly $2 trillion worth of goods annually, Pakistan’s share in this trade remains minimal Expanding
access to Chinese markets is a key objective under Uraan Pakistan which aims
s
ports and strengthen its global market position
Reflecting on past challenges, Iqbal acknowledged that political instability and disruptions in policy continuity had hindered Pakistan’s development However he expressed confidence that the current economic strategy driven by Uraan Pakistan, will help stabilise the economy and set the foundation for long-term growth
Lu Hao expressed confidence in Pakistan’s economic strategy and reaffirmed China s commitment to supporting Pakistan s efforts Both sides agreed to formalise their cooperation, marking a significant step towards achieving Uraan Pakistan’s ambitious economic goals
PTI to launch countr y wide movement for democratic rights on Aug 5: Q aiser
SWABI s ta f f r e p o r t Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) will launch a countrywide movement for constitutional and democratic rights starting August 5 senior PTI leader and former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser announced in a statement issued from Swabi on Sunday Qaiser emphasized that the movement would remain within the boundaries of law and the constitution focusing on the violation of democratic rights in Pakistan
He also marked August 5 as a Black Day in memory of PTI
founder Imran Khan’s arrest two years ago “Imran Khan’s arrest remains a symbol of the unjust treatment faced by political leaders in Pakistan Qaiser said reaffirming the demand for the immediate release of Imran Khan and his wife,
Bushra Bibi on bail a right he called both constitutional and legal Criticizing the judiciary Qaiser claimed that courts are not independent and are functioning under government pressure “The judiciary must act without bias, and the ongoing cases against Imran Khan must be expedited without delay he added
Further Qaiser warned against any state oppression of PTI workers, calling on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to ensure that no crackdown would take place The PTI leader also stressed that while the movement would remain peaceful the party would not tolerate any provocation
In a press conference with Shahram Khan Tarakai, Asad Qaiser reiterated that the movement would be peaceful and lawful The PTI leadership also emphasized the importance of
shifting government priorities from fertilizer procurement to education and entrepreneurship stating this would better serve the country s long-term development
They also urged for the reopening of trade routes with Afghanistan to foster peace and economic stability Ikram Khatana PTI s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Social Media Head shared details of the protest plan stating that the rally will begin at 3 PM from the Ring Road Hayatabad Toll Plaza in Peshawar with Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur leading the procession Other leaders will join along the route ending at Bala Hisar Fort via Ring Road and GT Road Gandapur and other PTI leaders will address the rally at its conclusion
PTI has committed to maintaining peace during the protest but warned that workers would respond to any provocation
ISLAMABAD