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Rs 20.00 | Vol XVI No 188 | 8 Pages | Islamabad Edition

PAKISTAN SLAMS ISRAEL’S RECOGNITION OF SOMALILAND AS ‘POLITICAL AGGRESSION’ AT OIC MEETING

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DPM ISHAQ DAR SAYS THE MOVE CONSTITUTED g EXPRESSES ‘UNWAVERING SUPPORT’ GRAVE VIOLATION OF INTERNATIONAL LAW, FOR UNITY AND INTERNATIONAL DIRECT ASSAULT ON SOMALIA’S SOVEREIGNTY BORDERS OF REPUBLIC OF AND TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY SOMALIA SAYS SOMALIA’S BORDERS ARE 'SACROSANCT AND INVIOLABLE' UNDER INTERNATIONAL LAW

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OIC CONDEMNS ISRAEL’S ACTIONS AND ADOPT RESOLUTION CONVENED AT SOMALIA’S REQUEST

FM Ishaq Dar meets Bangladeshi counterpart in Jeddah JEDDAH

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AKISTAN on Sunday forcefully rejected Israel’s recognition of the Somaliland region as an independent state, calling it an act of “political aggression” that threatens peace and security in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea region and beyond. Addressing an extraordinary session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Saudi Arabia, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said the move constituted a grave violation of interna-

tional law and a direct assault on Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Speaking at the OIC’s 22nd extraordinary session in Jeddah, convened in response to Israel’s move, Dar expressed Pakistan’s “unwavering support” for the unity and internationally recognised borders of the Federal Republic of Somalia. He strongly condemned what he termed Israel’s “illegal and unlawful” recognition of Somaliland, as well as the “highly provocative and unwarranted” visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to the region, an act Somalia has described as an unauthorised incursion. Dar said Pakistan had also raised

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday held meeting with Advisor on Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Touhid Hossain on the sidelines of the Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Jeddah. Both dignitaries expressed satisfaction over the robustness of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations. They discussed bilateral relations in di-

strong objections during a United Nations Security Council briefing, stressing that Somalia’s borders were “sacrosanct and inviolable” under international law. He underscored that state sovereignty and territorial integrity constituted a peremptory norm from which no deviation was permissible, declaring any external recognition of Somaliland “null and void” with no legal or political effect. Aligning itself with the joint OIC statement, Pakistan unequivocally rejected the Israeli move, warning that recognising parts of sovereign states undermined the UN Charter and risked serious repercussions for regional and

Gas explosion kills eight in Islamabad’s ‘unauthorized settlement’ ISLAMABAD

raja KaShif aShfaq

The deaths of eight people in a gas explosion in Islamabad have once again raised serious questions about violations of building bylaws and negligence by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), particularly its Building Control Section and Katchi Abadi Cell. Despite earning billions of rupees from the sale of residential and commercial plots, the CDA has focused mainly on roads, flyovers, and underpasses, while paying little attention to safety and enforcement of construction rules in non-regularized areas. The tragic incident occurred early morning in Sector G-7/2, 66 Quarters, when a gas leak caused a powerful explosion. A second blast followed after a commercial gas cylinder exploded. Eight people, including a newly married couple, lost their lives, while 12 others were in-

jured. The injured were shifted to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for medical treatment. According to eyewitnesses, the explosion was so strong that four houses were damaged, three of which collapsed completely. Rescue teams pulled nearly 20 people from the rubble. The President, Prime Minister, and Interior Minister expressed grief over the incident and directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured. The Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) confirmed that three houses were destroyed and one was partially damaged. The CDA Chairman said the explosion was caused by gas leakage, adding that such incidents are common during winter. He said an inquiry would be conducted to find the exact cause. Residents said they rushed to the site after hearing a loud blast and found an entire house flattened. Inspector General of Police Is-

lamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, visited PIMS Hospital, met the with the injured, and requested the hospital staff to ensure proper treatment. A preliminary report by the Capital Emergency Service stated that the groom, identified as Shehri, was a CDA employee. His wedding party had returned from Gujrat at around 1:30 a.m. Due to cold weather and wedding activities, a gas heater remained switched on during the night. Gas supply was later restored after load-shedding, causing leaked gas to fill the house. In the morning, when a matchstick was lit to prepare breakfast, a massive explosion occurred. Later in the day, the CDA sealed two nearby houses, declaring them unsafe. CDA sources said that although official records show only a limited number of houses in the 66 Quarters area, hundreds of illegal and unapproved structures actually exist, creating serious safety risks.

PTI pulls up surprise power show in Karachi amid roadblocks, arrests KARACHI

Staff report

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) pulled up a surprise power show in Karachi on Sunday as thousands of party workers came out to attend the party rally to be addressed by Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi. The Sindh government welcomed Sohail Afridi upon landing at Karachi Airport on Saturday and expressed political magnanimity. However, things changed as the Sindh government on Sunday blocked roads and arrested PTI workers and also did not allow the party to enter Bagh-e-Jiannh and set up a stage for the party leaders to address the party workers. Power connection was also cut off. However, the party workers entered Bagh-e-Jinnah ground and thronged the venue. Sohail Afridi entered the ground around midnight and made a fiery speech to the charged crowd. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Sunday said Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) would continue its political struggle through constitutional and democratic means,

Meeting between KP and Sindh Chief Ministers cancelled ahead of PTI rally KARACHI

Staff CorreSpondent

The scheduled meeting between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah was abruptly cancelled on Monday, reportedly ahead of a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally. According to media reports, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who is currently visiting Sindh, was due to meet his Sindh counterpart in Karachi. However, the meeting was called off after Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah reportedly conveyed his apology for not being able to meet, leading to the

vowing to resist what he described as injustice, political victimisation and the denial of the public mandate. Addressing party supporters at Bagh-e-Jinnah, Afridi said PTI believed in peaceful politics and respect for the

cancellation of the engagement. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has alleged that his movement within Sindh was deliberately obstructed. Speaking to the media, he claimed that while returning from Hyderabad to Karachi, multiple routes were blocked, causing a journey of nearly seven and a half hours. He alleged that all routes taken by him and his team were sealed, forcing them onto deserted roads. “We were deliberately pushed onto isolated routes and had no option but to travel through deserted areas to reach Karachi,” he said, adding that he has now safely arrived in the city.

Constitution but would not remain silent in the face of what he termed “systematic efforts to suppress the voice of the people”. He said the party’s movement was aimed at restoring democracy, rule of law and respect for the ballot.

verse fields, especially high-level exchanges, trade, and educational collaboration. The two sides also discussed a range of regional and global issues. Meanwhile, Ishaq Dar also met with Foreign Minister of Maldives Dr Abdulla Khaleel in Jeddah. The two leaders expressed satisfaction with the friendly and cooperative relations between Pakistan and the Maldives and underscored their shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties.

international security. Dar cautioned that such actions could destabilise Somalia at a critical time when it was making tangible progress in national reconciliation, constitutional reform, institutional revival and democratic consolidation. He further warned that Israel’s actions could weaken regional counterterrorism efforts by creating fragile environments vulnerable to exploitation by extremist groups, including AlShabab. Continued international support for Somalia’s security and stabilisation efforts, he said, remained indispensable.

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Pakistan on path of economic stability, development: Amir Muqam ISLAMABAD

Staff report

Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam, Sunday, attended the event as the chief guest, which was organized by the Pakistan South Africa Association in Pretoria, Lodheim, South Africa. The prestigious event was attended by High Commissioner of Pakistan Malik Muhammad Farooq, the Overseas Pakistani community, political and social figures and hundreds of people from different walks of life, said a press release. Addressing the event, the federal minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the attendees on the New Year and said that last year, 2025, proved to be a year of achievements for Pakistan. Pakistan achieved significant milestones in defense, economy, diplomacy, sports, and other fields, he added. He appreciated the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and said that due to the hard work and timely decisions of the current government, Pakistan was on the path of rapid development. Amir Muqam emphasized that under the leadership of Field Marshal and Chief of Defence Forces General Syed Asim Munir, the Pakistani Armed Forces achieved historic successes in the war of truth. He said that in the war of truth, the Pakistani Armed Forces defeated the enemy and raised the head of the entire nation with pride. He paid tribute to the overseas Pakistanis and said that after the Indian aggression, overseas Pakistanis defended the interests of Pakistan steadfastly. This war was fought by the entire Pakistani nation with unity and gave a clear message to the world that we are all one for Pakistan. If any kind of attack is carried out on homeland, every patriotic Pakistani will give a befitting reply like a war of truth.

02 NEWS

PAKISTAN, INDONESIA AGREE TO FORM JOINT TRADE COMMITTEE AS TRADE TOPS $4BN

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Monday, 12 January, 2026 | ISLAMABAD

MOU SIGNED IN ISLAMABAD; BOTH SIDES EYE PTA EXPANSION AND IMPROVED MARKET ACCESS PROFIT

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AKISTAN and Indonesia have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish an Indonesia Pakistan Joint Trade Committee to strengthen trade dialogue, address market access issues and expand bilateral economic cooperation, an official statement said. The MoU was signed in Islamabad on

Friday following talks between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and visiting Indonesian Vice Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esty Widya Putri. With bilateral trade exceeding $4 billion, both sides agreed to work towards expanding the existing preferential trade agreement, with the longer-term goal of progressing to a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to boost trade and investment flows.

During the talks, Mr Kamal described Indonesia as a strategically important member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and said it could serve as a regional hub for wider economic cooperation. He said Pakistan could supply the Indonesian market with minerals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and agri-food products, and announced plans to organise a singlecountry exhibition and business forum in

Jakarta. The event would also invite Asean member states to help promote Pakistani exports and strengthen regional business linkages. The chief executive of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan sought Indonesian support for the early announcement of fruit import quotas, rationalisation of certification requirements for Pakistani exports, notification of rice import quotas and improved market access for industrial-grade potatoes. Mr Kamal noted that imported edible oil, mainly from Indonesia, was an essential

Jazz introduces ‘JazzWorld’ as new corporate group identity g

MOVE MIRRORS GLOBAL TECH REBRANDS SUCH AS FACEBOOK’S TRANSITION TO META AND TWITTER’S REBRAND TO X, AS COMPANY CONSOLIDATES NON-TELECOM BUSINESSES PROFIT

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Telecom operator Jazz has announced a new corporate group identity, JazzWorld, marking a rebranding move that consolidates its expanding portfolio of digital and non-telecom businesses under a single umbrella. The rebrand follows a pattern seen globally, where technology companies have adopted new parent identities to re-

flect broader business ambitions, including Facebook’s transition to Meta and Twitter’s rebrand to X, while retaining their core consumer-facing platforms. Jazz said JazzWorld reflects its evolution from a traditional telecom operator into a multi-business group spanning digital, financial, lifestyle, health, cloud, and technology platforms. The company added that Jazz will continue to operate as the group’s core telecom brand under existing legal and regulatory structures,

Multinationals flag tax refund delays, urge super tax cut from 10% to 6% in next budget

FBR drafts plan to rationalise duties and taxes on mobile phone imports

OICCI member companies raise concerns over delayed refunds, advance tax collection and policy uncertainty, while calling for phased corporate tax cuts alongside a reduction in super tax in FY27 PROFIT

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Multinational companies operating in Pakistan raised concerns over delayed tax refunds, alleged harassment and advance tax collection by the Federal Board of Revenue during an interactive session between members of the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry, representing over 200 multinational firms, and the newly appointed director general of the Tax Policy Office at the Finance Division. According to a news report, the chamber also called for a reduction in the super tax rate from 10% to 6% in the 2026–27 federal budget, with a proposal to phase it out over three years. It also urged the government to lower the corporate tax rate by one percentage point annually over the next four years to improve competitiveness and investment planning. According to an official statement, the discussion focused on policy-level and structural tax issues rather than individual cases. Participants acknowledged recent macroeconomic stabilisation but highlighted the need for greater predictability, consistency and transparency in tax policy and its implementation. Key issues raised included prolonged delays in refund settlements, frequent policy changes and rising compliance costs. Members stressed that misalignment between stated tax policy objectives and on-ground implementation continued to undermine investor confidence. The chamber also emphasised stronger institutional coordination, simplified procedures and a more consultative approach to tax reforms to support sustainable foreign direct investment inflows. In a separate engagement, the Pakistan Business Council also met the Tax Policy Office as part of the government’s outreach on tax reforms. The discussion centred on separating tax policy from revenue administration and developing a predictable, growth-oriented tax framework. The business council reiterated that long-term, consistent tax policy was essential to support investment, exports and economic formalisation, while ensuring a level playing field for compliant businesses.

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CITY NOTES M A NIAZI

HE Maduro kidnapping, if you think about it, has to be an old man’s doing. It’s such a blast from the past. I mean, it takes us back to the days when battles were decided by single combat between the two generals. Then came the whole army fighting the other. Then instead of having just one winnertake-all battle, you had a series of battles in a war. So Trump, who’s old enough to remember those older, simpler times, just kidnapped Venezuela’s President and declared victory. We are beginning to see the possibilities. Remember the rumpus that the Americans would rescue Imran Khan? Send a helicopter to Adiala Jail. Well, it seems they were true. Or at least based on what Trump was capable of. In fact, it sheds a new light on the threat the USA is said to have made, which persuaded President Musharraf to not just sell

while JazzWorld will serve as the overarching corporate identity. Businesses grouped under JazzWorld include JazzCash, Mobilink Bank, Tamasha, ROX, Simosa, Garaj, Teknosys, ApnaClinic, ZARR, and FikrFree, alongside newer focus areas such as data centres, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. As part of the restructuring, Jazz announced the creation of a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO) role,

with Aamer Ejaz appointed to the position. The company also said its Chief Information Security Officer will now report directly to the CEO, reflecting changes in internal governance related to cybersecurity. The rebranding does not affect Jazz’s status as a licensed telecom operator, with the company stating that the Jazz brand will remain responsible for connectivity services within the broader group structure. Further details on how the JazzWorld identity will be reflected across products and customer-facing platforms are expected to be shared in the coming weeks.

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PROPOSAL TO NA FINANCE COMMITTEE INCLUDES DUTY REVIEW, PTA CONSULTATION, AND RELIEF FOR MID-RANGE SMARTPHONES PROFIT

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The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is preparing a detailed proposal to rationalise duties and taxes on mobile phone imports, following criticism from lawmakers over the affordability of smartphones. Business Recorder reported, citing official sources, that the proposal is being drafted for submission to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance and will include a review of existing tax rates as well as consultations with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority. During discussions with tax authorities, cellular mobile operators proposed the withdrawal of regulatory duties on telecom power equipment that is not locally

manufactured and called for rationalisation of duties on telecom equipment. They also argued that telecom services should be excluded from the retail price list regime, as operators do not import goods for direct sale. FBR officials said taxes on mobile phone imports require adjustment in line with current market conditions, noting that average smartphone prices have declined in recent months. Authorities indicated that coordination with the Ministry of IT could help align tax rates with prevailing price trends, while valuations found to be above market levels would be revised. During fiscal year 2024–25, the FBR collected Rs82 billion in taxes from mobile phone imports, including Rs18 billion from high-end smartphones, accounting for around 23 to 24% of total mobile-related tax receipts.

FPCCI consultative session charts roadmap to boost Pakistan exports g

OFFICIALS, INDUSTRY LEADERS DISCUSS ENERGY COSTS, FINANCE ACCESS, AND NEW EXPORT ZONES AT KARACHI MEETING PROFIT

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The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) hosted a high-level “Consultative Session with Stakeholders on Export Performance” at Federation House on Saturday, bringing together government officials and industry representatives to discuss strategies for enhancing Pakistan’s exports. The session was chaired by Federal Secretary for Commerce Jawad Paul and attended by Secretary Industries & Production Saif Anjum, senior Trade Development Authority of Pakistan officials, and leading representatives from the private sector. FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said sustainable export growth requires close coordination between policymakers and busi-

nesses, calling exports central to Pakistan’s economic stability and growth. He praised the Ministry of Commerce for engaging with the private sector to address practical challenges. Sheikh highlighted that exporters, though resilient and innovative, face obstacles including high business costs, energy constraints, limited access to finance, the need for market diversification, and compliance with international standards. He also identified opportunities in value-added manufacturing, IT, agro-based industries, and services exports, saying that targeted strategies could strengthen foreign exchange reserves, generate employment, and set Pakistan on a sustainable growth path. Senior Vice President FPCCI Saquib Fayyaz Magoon said the ses-

sion featured comprehensive participation from major sectors, including textiles, fruits and vegetables, travel and tourism, and transport and logistics, with industry associations providing sector-wise input. Chair Jawad Paul concluded the session by acknowledging concerns over high energy costs and the need for facilitative taxation to support exporters. Secretary Industries & Production Saif Anjum highlighted plans to establish and operationalize a large export processing zone on Pakistan Steel Mills land and urged businesses to seize opportunities for export-led growth. The consultative session underscored the government and private sector’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s export performance and building a resilient, competitive trade ecosystem.

component of Pakistan’s food supply and acknowledged the role of stakeholders from both countries in sustaining bilateral trade. The Indonesian vice minister reaffirmed her country’s commitment to closer economic ties and welcomed cooperation through the newly established Joint Trade Committee. The visit coincided with a reception hosted by the Indonesian Consulate General in Karachi in honour of the visiting vice minister, attended by government officials and business representatives from both countries, the statement said.

Centre, Sindh push rail revival with $2b Karachi–Rohri upgrade plan

Rs6.6bn to replace 100 manned crossings as governments move toward 25-year rail partnership PROFIT

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The federal and Sindh governments have agreed to accelerate a comprehensive rehabilitation of Pakistan Railways, including the up-gradation of the 480-kilometre Karachi–Rohri railway track at an estimated cost of $2 billion, officials said on Saturday. The understanding emerged from separate meetings held by Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi with Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. As part of the immediate measures, the centre and the province pledged to allocate Rs6.6 billion to replace 100 of Sindh’s 308 manned railway crossings and improve overall rail safety and efficiency. Chief Minister Murad said the government aimed to connect remote areas of Sindh through modern, affordable and safe transport facilities, adding that a revitalised rail network would reduce pressure on roads and provide reliable “city centre to city centre” connectivity for commuters and employees. Minister Abbasi said cooperation between the federal and Sindh governments would open a new chapter in the history of Pakistan Railways. He assured that the railways ministry would provide full technical support and the required right of way for planned projects. The two sides also agreed to finalise and sign a 25-year partnership framework agreement to ensure long-term collaboration on railway development initiatives. Earlier, during his meeting with Governor Tessori, Minister Abbasi discussed enhancing facilities for Pakistan Railways and exchanged views on the overall situation of the country. During the visit, the federal minister and the governor toured the Pakistan Railways Complaint Cell and the Ration Marquee, while Mr Abbasi also visited the historic office once used by Quaid-eAzam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, officials said.

CM Murad orders swift completion of Sindh irrigation projects to protect food supply PROFIT

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Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Saturday directed the provincial administration to complete all key development projects on time, emphasizing strict adherence to quality standards and strengthened monitoring. The instructions were issued during a high-level meeting chaired by CM Shah to review ongoing initiatives, with a particular focus on irrigation infrastructure and agricultural development as critical to Sindh’s economy. Shah said a strong, climate-resilient irrigation system is the foundation of agricultural success, essential for food self-sufficiency and increasing export potential. He stressed that modernizing irrigation networks will protect water resources and bolster the province’s economic stability. Minister Shoro briefed the chief minister on ongoing and upcoming work at the Sukkur Barrage, including the replacement of 27 gates during the canal closure period. Work on 25 gates has already started. The chief minister directed that all 27 gates be replaced within the scheduled timeframe, warning that any delay could have serious repercussions for food security and water availability.

Today Venezuela, tomorrow Greenland

the Taliban down the river but also adopt the Global War on Terror as ‘Pakistan’s own war’ and bomb the country back into the Stone Age. So if Imran went unrescued, it was because Trump had forgotten his friend. The drug connection is something of a complication. Maduro is supposed to have sold drugs. One can visualize his rather portly presence outside the Presidential Palace in Caracas, talking out of the side of his mouth, peddling the good stuff. Imran is not accused of that. In fact, the very opposite. Did Trump not order his rescue because he was Maduro’s best customer? It’s funny how drugs came up. A DPharm student at a private university jumped off the roof of her hostel and survived. Another girl at the same university had been more successful a few days earlier. It seems that the DPharm course is tough… Listen, I’m in favour of high academic stan-

dards, but I’m not in favour of driving young people to suicide. By the way, that’s one of the common reasons for suicide by young people: failure ib exams. Next, among a slightly older age group, is failure in love. Of course, not all young men whose proposals get turned down kill themselves. Some of them kill the girl. Or throw acid on her face. Neither of these reasons make older people commit suicide. They do so because of economic failure. They not only off themselves, but their children too. However, I’m sure the woman in Minneapolis that got killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Minneapolis was not looking to be killed. She was just interrupting their raid. Of course, some people say she shouldn’t have interfered. Well, maybe she shouldn’t have. Still, while Trump wages a war against

intruders, Israeli settlers intruding in the West Bank are encouraged. They’re a really hard bunch. First, someone shot Saeed ElAmour in the legs in August. Then in December they stole his crutches. But Trump is looking at Greenland. For settlers, it seems, crutches, but Presidents want a whole great big island. But Secretary of State Marco Rubio says it won’t be stolen or kidnapped or stolen, but bought. Again, an old-man thing. The last time the USA bought territory was in 1867, when it bought Alaska from Russia for $15 million (which would be about $132 million nowadays). I doubt if the USA woul get Greenland so cheap. The main reason Russia made the sale is because it was afraid that the British would take it from Canada, which abuts Alaska. Russia had just come off the Crimean War, in which the British had bashed it. Who threatens Denmark now that

they would sell? Trump would have us believe Russia and China would like to take over. The main problem is that while Russia hadn’t given any self-government to Alaska, Denmark has given self-government to Greenland. And so far, the Greenlanders are vocal about not wanting to be American. Of course, it might be easier to buy it now. Back in 1867, the USA had to put up gold dollars. Now, whatever sum is agreed, it just prints the notes. If that is how things are, you’ve got a lot of countries that would volunteer to be sold, either entirely or in part. Pakistan wouldn’t mind having its debt taken over, provided no takeover is thought to mean that the government couldn’t borrow more. I’ll give you a simple formula: Trump wouldn’t want Greenland if the population had been Black. And he wouldn’t want any part of Pakistan where the population isn’t white.

Monday, 12 January, 2026 | ISLAMABAD

PAKISTAN RANKS AMONG TOP GLOBAL DONORS, BUT 42% UNABLE TO GIVE DUE TO FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS

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rePort shows 73% PakIstanIs donated In 2024, aBove gloBal average, whIle affordaBIlIty remaIns maIn BarrIer to gIvIng PROFIT

staff report

AKISTANIS remain among the most generous people globally, driven largely by religious obligation and compassion, but financial constraints continue to limit giving for a significant share of the population, according to a new report by Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy. Based on findings from the World Giving Report 2025 and PCP’s own analysis of more than 5,000 not-for-profit organisations, the study found that 73% of Pakistanis donated money in 2024. This exceeds the global average of 64% and the

Asian regional average of 69%. Pakistan ranked 17th out of 101 countries both in overall generosity and in the share of income donated. Despite this strong culture of giving, 42% of respondents reported they were unable to donate due to lack of affordability. Of the 27% who did not give at all, financial constraints were cited as the primary reason, reflecting a challenge also seen globally. An additional 18% of non-monetary givers preferred to contribute in-kind, such as food or other forms of support. The report shows that Pakistanis donate a higher share of income than the global average. On average, individuals donated 1.64% of their income in 2024, compared

with a global average of 1.04%, despite income levels being concentrated in low- and middle-income groups. Volunteering, however, remains limited. Only 16% of people reported volunteering time in 2024, with an average of 3.5 hours per person, well below both the Asian and global averages. Religious obligation emerged as the strongest motivation for giving, cited by 58% of donors, followed by care for a cause at 54% and a sense of duty at 49%. Most donations were made directly to individuals or families in need, accounting for 51% of giving, while 47% went to charities and 34% to religious causes. Of total donations in 2024, nearly 45%

went directly to people in need, compared with about 34% to charities and 22% to religious causes. Poverty and religious organisations were the most supported causes, followed by homelessness and disabilityrelated needs. The study also found that giving in Pakistan is frequent, with nearly 18% of donors giving more than 12 times a year and 21% donating between six and 11 times, levels higher than global and regional averages. This pattern is closely linked to religious and cultural occasions such as Ramazan and Eid. Public trust in charities in Pakistan was rated higher than regional and global norms, with respondents giving charities a trust score of 10.4 out of 15. The PCP noted that better regulation, transparency and information on the use of funds could further increase charitable giving, alongside improvements in household incomes.

Pakistan hit ‘virtual internal default’ in April 2022, Minister says

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mInIster says cash crunch halted develoPment sPendIng days Before PtI government fell PROFIT

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Pakistan effectively slipped into an internal default in early April 2022 after the Ministry of Finance said it lacked funds to release the final instalment of the federal development budget, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said on Friday. Speaking on Geo News programme Geo Pakistan, Iqbal said the finance ministry on April 1, 2022, informed the government it could not disburse remaining development funds because it had no money available. He said the episode amounted to a “virtual internal default”, an unprecedented sit-

uation in Pakistan’s history, and fuelled speculation at the time that the country could default externally within four to six weeks. The remarks referred to the final days of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government led by then prime minister Imran Khan, which was removed through a no-confidence vote on April 7, 2022. Iqbal said economic conditions had stabilised since the Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N)-led coalition took office, citing improvements in growth, inflation and investor confidence. He said the economy, which he described as having stalled, recorded 3.7% growth in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, while large-scale manufacturing

activity was increasing. Iqbal also pointed to upgrades by international ratings agencies Fitch, Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s, and said inflation, which had been rising at an annual rate of 38%, had fallen to about 4%. “If inflation had not been brought under control, it would have continued rising every month,” he said. The planning minister said the government’s stabilisation efforts were anchored in the International Monetary Fund programme, which will run until 2027 and is fully owned by the government. He said the latest budget included a deliberate reduction in duties in export-oriented sectors and partial liberalisation of imports for raw materials and machinery to

expand export capacity. Such measures typically lead to higher imports initially, he said, but imports of machinery and inputs would translate into higher exports in coming quarters. On taxation, Iqbal said higher taxes on the salaried class were imposed under IMF conditions. He said the number of tax filers had nearly doubled and that additional relief would be considered in the next budget. Calling taxation a “life and death” issue, he said all income earners, including traders and landowners, would have to be brought into the tax net. He added that digitisation would allow authorities to match lifestyle and spending data with tax records.

Pakistan slams Israel’s recognition of Somaliland Pakistan to set up $60–80m seafood as ‘political aggression’ at OIC meeting processing zone at with the government and people of So- line with the United Nations Security CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01 malia in their pursuit of peace, stability Council’s ceasefire resolution. Somaliland, located in northwestern Dar reiterated Pakistan’s support for the and progress. Korangi Fisheries Harbour OIC’s Somalia, declared independence unilatercall for all states to refrain from OIC CONDEMNS ISRAEL’S PROFIT

staff report

Pakistan will establish a 100-acre seafood processing and export zone at Korangi Fisheries Harbour Authority (KoHFA) with an estimated investment of USD 60–80 million, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Saturday. The project aims to shift Pakistan’s seafood industry from raw exports to high-value processed products, targeting Gulf, East African, and Asian markets. Chaudhry said it will connect medium-scale processors and value-added plants with global buyers through modern infrastructure, certification standards, and streamlined export logistics. The zone will be developed under a public-private partnership or build-operate-transfer (BOT) concession model. Private investors will finance, develop, and operate the facilities, while KoHFA will retain regulatory oversight. The concession is expected to run for 20 years with possible extensions, though alternative joint development models with private exporters or manufacturers may also be considered.

any form of engagement with Somaliland authorities that did not respect Somalia’s sovereignty and unity. He also categorically rejected any linkage between Somaliland and proposals involving the forced displacement of Palestinians, reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast support for Palestinian self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al Sharif as its capital. Touching on regional issues, Dar said the unresolved dispute over Indiaoccupied Kashmir remained the primary source of tension in South Asia and urged renewed international efforts under UN auspices for a just and lasting resolution in line with Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Concluding his address, Dar called on the OIC and the broader international community to speak with one voice against actions undermining Somalia’s sovereignty, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to stand

ACTIONS AND ADOPT RESOLUTION CONVENED AT SOMALIA’S REQUEST At Sunday’s session, the OIC again condemned Israel’s actions and adopted a resolution convened at Somalia’s request. The resolution rejected Israel’s recognition of “Somaliland”, describing it as a flagrant violation of the internationally recognised borders of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The OIC reaffirmed its full support for Somalia’s sovereignty and expressed unwavering solidarity with the Somali government. The OIC also passed a separate resolution on the situation in the Middle East, reaffirming that a just, lasting and comprehensive peace depends on Israel’s complete withdrawal from all Palestinian territories occupied since 1967. The resolution stressed the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and called for continued efforts to sustain the ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, while urging further action in

ally in 1991 after the collapse of the central Somali government. While the region has its own administration, security apparatus and periodic elections, it has not been recognised as a sovereign state by the United Nations or any major international organisation. The federal government in Mogadishu has consistently maintained that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia. Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has sparked controversy in Somalia and drawn criticism across Africa and the Muslim world. OIC member states had already firmly rejected Israel’s move in December. In a joint statement, Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Gambia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Türkiye and Yemen said the recognition amounted to a blatant disregard of international law and the United Nations Charter, which safeguards the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

NEWS 03

FBR amends income tax rules to include AJK, GB taxpayers in Active Taxpayer List

Individuals registered with aJk and gilgit-Baltistan tax authorities to be added to atl, subject to address and verification conditions PROFIT

staff report

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has amended the Income Tax Rules to allow individuals active with the tax authorities of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) to be included in Pakistan’s Active Taxpayer List (ATL). According to a notification issued on Thursday, the amendments have been made under powers conferred by the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. Under the revised Rule 81B, individuals appearing on the Active Taxpayer List of the AJK Central Board of Revenue or the GilgitBaltistan Council Board of Revenue will be included in the FBR’s ATL, provided their temporary or permanent address is in AJK or GB and their addresses are also recorded in Pakistan. The procedure requires the Commissioner Inland Revenue, having jurisdiction based on the temporary address listed on the individual’s CNIC, to verify through the IRIS system that the person has no employment or business activity in Pakistan. This verification will be conducted following an inquiry and an undertaking submitted by the individual. At the same time, the relevant commissioner of the AJK or GB revenue authority will be required to confirm, through IRIS, the existence of employment or sole business activity in those territories. The notification further states that if the Commissioner Inland Revenue later determines that a person included under these provisions is liable to file an income tax return under the Income Tax Ordinance and fails to comply with a notice, their name will be removed from the Active Taxpayer List.

PSX faces selling pressure, KSE-100 drops more than 1100 points at close PROFIT

staff report

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) saw a strong reversal on Friday, January 9th as profit‑taking triggered heavy selling across the market, dragging the KSE‑100 Index down by about 1100 points from earlier levels. The benchmark index opened on a firm note but gave up gains as investors squared off positions, pushing the KSE‑100 Index down approximately 1100 points by closing. The index dropped to its lowest point of the day at 02:46 PM trading at 183,700.83 points and closed at 184,409.67 points, a drop 1,133.34 points, or -0.61%, from the previous close of 185,543.01. Market participants attributed the slide to profit‑booking after recent rallies, which had lifted key stocks over prior sessions. Activity was broad‑based, with selling pressure observed in major sectors, including banking, oil and gas, and industrial shares, which weighed on the overall performance.

Pakistan has the third-largest ship-breaking industry in the world. Could new compliance measures make it number one? g

Bangladesh and IndIa are market leaders In what has Become a serIous BusIness In south asIa, But PakIstan lags BehInd PROFIT

staff report

Pakistan recently announced that one of its ship recycling facilities had been certified under the Hong Kong International Convention (HKC). Prime Green Recycling Yard, which has been operating for over two decades in the Gadani shipbreaking yard, recently obtained this certification, making it the first Pakistani shipbreaking yard to do so. Shipbreaking, at its core, is a recycling industry. In theory, it is supposed to reduce waste by salvaging reusable material from end-of-life ships, and free it up for usage in other industries. The most important of these materials are metal and steel, key components in a ship’s make and build, which are then used to supply the country’s metal needs. Yet, what ideally would have led to green consequences has been beset by various bottlenecks which have restricted its potential to be a force for good. The industry, dominated by South Asian countries of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, has been a hub of practices that have not only been environmentally detrimental, but also harmful to human life. Poor regulatory oversight, lack of adequate protection for both the environment and the workers, and blasé attitudes towards modernising the industry

have led it to become one of the most dangerous professions in the world. But, there have been efforts to mitigate these harmful effects and to push back against these practices in an effort to make shipbreaking a more sustainable practice. The HKC is one such effort. Pakistan’s first steps to bring its shipbreaking industry in line with global standards as exemplified in this recent move are a necessary step to ensure that this industry remains competitive globally and is better for the employees as well as the natural environment. Much more, however, needs to be done to ensure that Pakistan’s shipbreaking infrastructure is developed and safe enough for it to be competitive in a world that is increasingly moving towards reducing carbon emissions and helping conserve the climate. SHIPBREAKING INDUSTRY: Big ships, like small things, have a lifespan. Usually, after 20 years, these ships – such as cargo vessels, tankers, bulk carriers, cruise liners – become costlier to maintain. The owners think better of keeping these vessels, and sell them off for scraps to shipbreaking yards. They get money, and the shipbreakers get to keep and use all that’s of, on, and within the ship. The process of breaking ships up into manageable pieces is heavy and intensive. According to Business Insider, a 150 ft tall and 900 ft long vessel would require 200

workers to spend around 3 months of effort to fully knife through it. Cruise ships, which are the most complex sort of ships, can take up to a year to be fully dismantled. It is estimated that 95% of the metal (mostly steel, copper, and aluminium) that is obtained in this process of destruction is reusable. Other valuable kinds of material include glass, wood, furnishings, plumbing, batteries, generators, and electronic appliances, all of which can be sold again in various flea markets, if not supplied to small businesses. The process of breaking a ship is also very dangerous. An old ship, beside the things mentioned above, also contains residual oil, asbestos from insulation, lead from paint, and other kinds of toxic and heavy metals. All these things can, if not properly managed, cause great hazards. The oils, for example, could lead to massive explosions, considering blowtorches are the main implement used to cut metal up. Similarly, toxic material can seep into the environment and ravage local species and their habitat. Now there are various methods of picking apart a ship. The most dangerous one of these is the beaching method, which is, you guessed it, mainly used in the shipbreaking yards of South Asia. It is also the cheapest method of breaking ships. In this method, a ship is ‘beached,’ i.e., thrust on the beach while its engine is on so that the front part

of it is on land, while the rear part is on the sea. Then, this process involves pulling down large pieces of metal from the ship; these pieces fall to the ground or on the water, from which they are towed to be broken into further smaller pieces. Obviously, this process is dangerous since, as NGO Shipbreaking Platform points out, “cutting operations take place in the intertidal area, pollutants are inevitably discharged into the environment and washed away by the tide.” At the same time, massive pieces of falling metal can catch and crush workers, whether suspecting or not. This practice is banned in much of the world but has found a fervent practitioner in the shipbreaking yards of South Asia. And that is part of the reason why these beaches are preferred. Most of the ships, for example, in these yards originate either in Europe or China. The reason is that lax regulatory regimes, poor oversight, cheap labour, and high demand for scrap in local markets mean that the ship-sellers can command a higher price in these markets, by some estimates, over 10 times more than in the industrial north. Although there are protocols, such as the Basel Convention of 1992, to prevent developed nations from exporting hazardous waste, such as is present in older ships, to developing nations, these regulations have been routinely bypassed. One of the most common methods is to change the ship’s flag to that of a country – such as Panama, Comoros, or Saint Kitts and Nevis – that has lenient laws regarding the export of end-of-life vessels to countries with poor

shipbreaking infrastructure and practices. The HKC, too, aims to promote safe and environmentally sustainable ship recycling practices. Adopted in 2009 by the International Maritime Organization, it sets out standards that govern the management and disposal of waste and hazardous material as well as the promotion of worker safety in shipbreaking yards. According to these standards, every ship arriving at a shipbreaking yard must contain an inventory of all the hazardous material present in the ship, and delineate a clear plan to handle it. The shipbreaking yard, before accepting this, also needs to submit a report to the local government and attest to its own ability to handle the hazardous material in a safe and environment-friendly manner. Moreover, all shipbreaking activity is to be carried out on impermeable flooring, and there must be oil-water separators to properly treat runoff. The beaching strategy, where ships were cut on beaches, had also to give way to cutting in controlled, land-based zones. The three major nations of South Asia, which together accounted for over 84 percent of the global tonnage processed in 2024, were slow to ratify this. The slowest however was Pakistan, which only did so in late 2023, meaning it had less time than its neighbouring counterparts India and Bangladesh to take systemic measures to bring their shipbreaking operations in like with the protocols set forth in the HKC. The treaty went into effect in June 2025, by which time Pakistan had not a single HKC-compliant shipbreaking yard across its length or breadth.

04 COMMENT

Monday, 12 January, 2026

Branchless banking

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SBP indicates major shift taking place

HE State Bank of Pakistan’s latest report on electronic banking indicates that Pakistanis are taking to branchless banking in a big way, such that the ordinary consumers’ relationship to money itself is changing, and with it the whole process of dealing with the banks.Now that mobile banking account deposits have exceeded 120 million, they cannot be ignored, especially as mobile banking apps are used in transactions of Rs 337 trillion, which make up 81 percent of digital transactions. SBP has a crucial role in the process, for it is because of the citizens’ trust in the safety and stability of its product, money, that the system moves to where it is. Also, it marks an important shift in the SBP’s role, where its role as a mint is not so important, though its duty as the guarantor of the currency’s credit becomes more vital than ever before. Money has had a long journey, from lumps of metal that had to be weighed and assayed, to minted coins of known weight and purity, to entries ina ledger, to the present series of electronic blips that indicate value. There is the new blockchain technology which allows a more permanent and secure records, when money becomes more a record of transactions rather than anything else. One of the hidden functions of money, anonymity, is lost in electronic transactions. The anonymity of the banknote is what enables corruption, including tax evasions. This is what prevents the quick shifting to e-banking. The problem is not so much finding a solution, as detecting a solution when one is found by criminals and the criminally inclined. While neither tax evasion nor corruption affected the credibility of money, unless there was counterfeiting involved, new methods might. The SBP is likely to find its role not so much changing, as requiring employees with a different skill set. While losing control over the issuance of cash, State Bankers now will have to be nt so much computer literate as almost engineers, adept both at software and hardware. Even before this transformation, banks had adopted computers in so big a way that their operations had become impossible without them. In a way, all that has happened is that depositors have also got computers to help. Sbp and other central banks can only help along the change by ensuring that depositors still feel that their money is safe, both from fraud and from somehow disappearing.

IMF programmes and income inequality Now the data-based evidence is coming in

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N the ‘World Inequality Report 2026’ released last month, it was pointed out ‘Inequality has long been a defining feature of the global economy, but by 2025, it has reached levels that demand urgent attention. … The findings are clear: inequality remains extreme and persistent; it manifests across multiple dimensions that intersect and reinforce one another; and it reshapes democracies, fragmenting coalitions and eroding political consensus. Yet the data also demonstrate that inequality can be reduced. Policies such as redistributive transfers, progressive taxation, investment in human capital, and stronger labour rights have made a difference in some contexts. Proposals such as minimum wealth taxes on multi-millionaires illustrate the scale of resources that could be mobilized to finance education, health, and climate adaptation. Reducing inequality is not only about fairness but also essential for the resilience of economies, the stability of democracies, and the viability of our planet.’ The Report specifically focussed on a number of countries, which included Pakistan, whereby it pointed out an alarming situation with regard to inequality. It indicated in this regard as ‘In Pakistan, inequality remains high and shows limited progress over the past decade. The top 10 percent of earners capture 42 percent of total income, whereas the bottom 50 percent receive only 19 percent. Wealth inequality is even more concentrated, with the richest 10 percent holding 59 percent of total wealth and the top 1 percent accounting for 24 percent. … Overall, income and wealth are highly concentrated in Pakistan, with persistent gender disparities and only minor shifts in inequality trends.’

Pakistan has been in around two dozen International Monetary Fund (IMF) programmes, and the above analysis, along with previous research studies showing income inequality enhancing impact of IMF programmes, it is important for both the IMF and the country’s authorities– Ministry of Finance, and State Bank of Pakistan (SBP)– to move away from neoliberal, and austerity-based IMF programme conditionalities, to those that allow greater role of the public sector in running the affairs of the economy, and support appropriate level of social spending, like on health, and education for instance, unlike the current practice of IMF conditionalities to (unjustifiably) favour over-board practice of austerity policies

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

M. A. Niazi

Babar Nizami

Editor Pakistan Today

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Dr. Omer JaveD

In the book ‘A thousand cuts: social protection in the age of austerity’ it is pointed out that not only do IMF programme conditionalities have a positive correlation with income inequality, conditionalities also have a positive correlation with income inequality. Here, the book, analyzing a time period of 1980-2017, almost four decades, or 38 years to be precise, and for 194 countries, which includes Pakistan, indicated ‘‘… we plot the association between average annual income Gini and the total number of conditions between 1980 and 2017. …We observe a weak positive correlation between the two variables, correlating at 0.18.’ With regard to analysing causal relationship, the book takes certain control variables, and applies a multivariate regression analysis. The control variables include, for instance, gross domestic product (GDP, or simply national income), trade openness, foreign direct investment (FDI), and levels of democracy, among others. About levels of democracy, the book indicated the reason for taking it as a control variable as ‘…since democratic governments are more inclined to help the lower and middle classes with progressive taxes, minimum wage laws, price subsidies, and public works provision, thereby having more equitable income distributions…’ Analysis pointed out that IMF conditions as a whole had a significant positive correlation with income inequality. As pointed out in the book, this is broadly in line with a similar message that a number of previous studies reached in line with labour income, and inequality, whereby the book highlighted ‘Within this small-but-fast growing body of literature on the global determinants of income inequalities, debates surrounding the impact of IMF programmes have persisted over time. Most scholarship on the impact of IMF programmes on inequality… suggests adverse effects that can persist over the medium-run.’ Specific results about the causation pointed out ‘We find an effect for the total number of conditionalities on the Gini coefficient of disposable income… On average, each additional binding IMF condition increases the income Gini by 0.013 percentage points, all other variables held equal. Setting the number of binding conditions at the mean, at 21.511 per year, would therefore result in an increase of 0.28 percentage points.’ Hence, approximately 22 conditionalities per year would increase income inequality by 0.3 percentage points, whereby given Pakistan, as per the

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Oil dreams return

Afghan Soil Enables TTP, ISKP Nexus Against Pakistan

AKISTAN’S national security landscape continues to be shaped by an uncomfortable and increasingly well-documented reality: the systematic use of Afghan territory for sustained cross-border terrorism. Despite repeated diplomatic engagements and the provision of actionable intelligence, the uninterrupted infiltration of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist formations into Pakistan demonstrates not merely a failure of control by the Afghan Interim Government (IAG), but a pattern of tolerance, facilitation, and strategic ambiguity that has grave regional implications. Since June alone, Pakistani security institutions have recorded the infiltration of more than 4,000 TTP terrorists in 172 organized tashkeels into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alongside approximately 1200 terrorists in 83 formations into Balochistan. The sheer scale, organization, and continuity of these movements are incompatible with the notion of isolated border lapses. Such coordinated cross-border flows necessitate secure staging areas, logistical support, freedom of movement, and foreknowledge— conditions that can only exist under state-level acquiescence. Multiple infiltration corridors originating from Afghanistan’s eastern provinces— Kunar, Nuristan, Nangarhar, Paktika, Khost, and Paktiya— remain fully operational. These routes have long been identified, mapped, and shared with Afghan authorities. Yet, no meaningful interdiction has occurred. This persistent inaction starkly contradicts IAG claims of counter-terrorism control and exposes such assertions as strategically deceptive rather than operationally credible. At the apex of this threat architecture stands TTP chief Noor Wali Mehsud, who continues to reside openly in Kabul under Taliban protection. From there, he orchestrates terrorist violence against Pakistan while reportedly receiving monthly financial support estimated at $43,000. His presence in state-controlled residential complexes, including areas such as Tahiya Maskan, underscores the institutionalized nature of the protection afforded to the terrorist leadership. This is not passive sheltering; it reflects an environment where militant command-and-control structures operate

with impunity. Operational sustainability of TTP terrorism has been further enhanced through access to abandoned US and NATO military hardware. Advanced weaponry— including M16 and M4 rifles, night-vision devices, and thermal optics— has been systematically transferred or facilitated into TTP hands. These capabilities have directly translated into higher lethality, precision attacks, and increased risks for both civilians and security personnel inside Pakistan. Pakistan has repeatedly furnished verified intelligence on more than 60 TTP terrorist camps across eastern Afghanistan, detailing their locations, leadership, and operational roles. The failure of the IAG to dismantle, restrict, or even meaningfully disrupt these camps has allowed terrorists to regroup, train, and infiltrate Pakistan at will. Afghan Taliban denials further collapse when confronted with the recurring reality of Afghan nationals being killed or captured during terrorist attacks inside Pakistan— clear evidence of terrorism exported from Afghan soil. The involvement of Afghan nationals within TTP and affiliated factions such as FAK (Fitna al-Khawarij) is no longer anecdotal; it is operationally confirmed. The killing of Afghan terrorist Mullah Tajuddin from Logar province in Bajaur, and the neutralization of Maulvi Insafullah alongside six foreign terrorists in Bannu, illustrate the deep reliance of these groups on foreign fighters. Afghan nationals are not peripheral actors; they serve as fighters, suicide attackers, guides, and facilitators embedded within command structures. The Boya Post suicide attack further revealed the existence of organized suicide squads operating under unified command, reflecting structured training and ideological indoctrination conducted from cross-border sanctuaries. Equally alarming is the evolving sophistication of terrorist tactics. The use of drone technology in Bannu to assassinate a peace committee elder marks a dangerous escalation, targeting civilians and community leaders to undermine local governance and social cohesion. According to official confirmations by the Director General ISPR, more than 200 Afghan national terrorists have been eliminated in recent intelligence-based operations. Their repeated targeting of civilians, peace committee

The international community can no longer afford strategic silence. The weaponization of Afghan territory for proxy terrorism transforms the IAG from a passive stakeholder into an active enabler of Khawarij violence. Without decisive action to dismantle terrorist infrastructures and deny sanctuary, the region will remain trapped in a cycle of insecurity— one whose consequences will extend far beyond Pakistan’s borders

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The writer holds PhD in Economics degree from the University of Barcelona, and previously worked at International Monetary Fund.Prior to this, he did MSc. in Economics from the University of York (United Kingdom), and worked at the Ministry of Economic Affairs & Statistics (Pakistan), among other places. He is author of Springer published book (2016) ‘The economic impact of International Monetary Fund programmes: institutional quality, macroeconomic stabilization and economic growth’.He tweets @omerjaved7

Editor’s mail

Cross-Border Terrorism Persists Tariq Khan Tareen

same book had the highest number of conditionalities among all IMF programme countries during 19802019– a similar time period as taken for the regression analysis covering time period at 1980-2017– at 1,303, it is quite likely that it meaningfully contributed to increase in income inequality in the country. Here, further analysis in the book, taking ‘IMF fiscal adjustment indicator’ and seeing its impact on income deciles of IMF programme countries, pointed out that while fiscal austerity conditionalities reduced the incomes of the first seven income deciles, that is the lower-, and middle-income groups, they had a significantly positive impact on income decile 10, which is representative of the richest segment of the society. The book pointed out in this regard ‘Based on the point estimate, a country on an IMF program requiring an annual fiscal adjustment of 10 percentage points can expect the share of income of decile one– the sum of incomes of the poorest 10 percent of the population as a proportion of total income– to decrease by 1.34 percentage points on average, and we can say with 90 percent confidence that this decile is between 0.50 and 2.18 percentage points. At income decile share six– the sum of incomes between the bottom 50 percent and 60 percent of the population as a proportion of total income– the same fiscal adjustment of 10 percentage points would reduce the share of income by, on average, 2.33 percentage points. While the fiscal adjustment effects for income decile shares eight and nine are also broadly comparable, they do not reach the 90 percent threshold of statistical significance. For income decile 10– the sum of incomes of the richest 10 percent of the population as a proportion of total income– the effect of IMF fiscal adjustment turns positive and is much larger relative to other deciles. An IMF programme requiring an annual fiscal adjustment of 10 percentage points would increase the share of income in this decile by 17.05 percentage points, and we are 90 percent certain that it is between 8.07 and 26.02 percentage points.’ Pakistan has been in around two dozen International Monetary Fund (IMF) programmes, and the above analysis, along with previous research studies showing income inequality enhancing impact of IMF programmes, it is important for both the IMF and the country’s authorities– Ministry of Finance, and State Bank of Pakistan (SBP)– to move away from neoliberal, and austerity-based IMF programme conditionalities, to those that allow greater role of the public sector in running the affairs of the economy, and support appropriate level of social spending, like on health, and education for instance, unlike the current practice of IMF conditionalities to (unjustifiably) favour over-board practice of austerity policies.

members, and security installations exposes the fundamentally anti-people and anti-Islamic nature of their ideology, which thrives on chaos rather than any legitimate political grievance. Compounding this threat is the emerging convergence between TTP and Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) elements inside Afghanistan. Recent United Nations sanctions monitoring assessments indicate that the Afghan Taliban regime has failed to dismantle terrorist groups, including both TTP and ISKP. Under sustained pressure from Pakistani operations, many ISKP fighters fled into Afghanistan, where some surrendered to local authorities while others disappeared into civilian populations. In the absence of transparent accountability mechanisms, several of these elements are now reportedly being sheltered by TTP factions. This absorption of surrendered or defected ISKP fighters into TTP networks highlights a growing ecosystem of terrorist cooperation facilitated by Afghanistan’s ungoverned spaces. Ideological alignment and shared operational interests allow these groups to survive, regroup, and remain lethal. Far from Pakistan harboring ISKP, these developments reinforce the reality that Afghan territory has become a permissive environment for terrorist convergence, posing serious risks not only to Pakistan but to regional and global security. Pakistan’s response must be understood in the context of immense national sacrifice. With over 94,000 lives lost and economic damages exceeding $150 billion, Pakistan’s counter-terrorism posture remains calibrated, defensive, and evidence-driven. The source of instability is not Pakistan’s self-defence, but the sustained protection, tolerance, and enablement of terrorist networks across the border. The international community can no longer afford strategic silence. The weaponization of Afghan territory for proxy terrorism transforms the IAG from a passive stakeholder into an active enabler of Khawarij violence. Without decisive action to dismantle terrorist infrastructures and deny sanctuary, the region will remain trapped in a cycle of insecurity— one whose consequences will extend far beyond Pakistan’s borders.

PAKISTAN has successfully revived its offshore exploration efforts after a hiatus of nearly two decades. The recently launched offshore bid round has attracted strong interest from both domestic and international companies, signalling re-newed confidence in the country’s energy sector. The government plans to drill its first offshore oil well in March next year in the eastern offshore Indus Block C near Sujawal district, and, depending on positive results, as many as 25 additional wells could eventually follow. In October, the government awarded 23 offshore exploratory blocks to four consortia led by domestic exploration and production companies. Covering nearly 53,500 square kilometres across the Indus and Makran basins, these blocks will undergo geological and geophysical surveys, seismic data acquisition, and detailed interpretation over the next three years to identify drilling prospects. Exploratory drilling in the subsequent phase will ultimately determine the commercial viability of any discoveries. A landmark feature of this bid round is the involvement of foreign entities, including those from Turkiye and Hong Kong. In addition to foreign capital, these awards are expected to bring advanced offshore technology to Pakistan. In an environment marked by dwindling foreign investment, this renewed interest is a welcome development. Over the last decade, Pakistan’s onshore exploration and production (E&P) sector has experienced significant setbacks as several major international companies either exited the market, or scaled down operations. Against this backdrop, the confidence demonstrated by foreign partners in the offshore sector is rather encouraging. As of June 30, Pakistan had consumed nearly 81 per cent of its proven oil reserves of 1,245 million barrels, leaving about 353 million barrels recoverable after recent discoveries and revisions. At current production levels of 60,000-75,000 barrels per day, against a demand of around 400,000 barrels, the remaining reserves may last only 15 years, forcing annual oil imports worth over $12 billion. Natural gas reserves show a similar decline: of the original 63.24 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of recoverable resources, 43.73 TCF have already been produced, leaving about 19 TCF. With output falling from mature fields and no major new finds, these reserves, too, may not last beyond another 15 years, compelling Pakistan to import around 8.7 billion cubic metres of LNG annually. Pakistan’s offshore region, comprising the Indus and Makran basins, has seen limited exploration. Only 18 wells have been drilled since independence; none commercially successful. Early efforts by some companies provided valuable geological information, but yielded no discoveries. The most recent attempt, the Kekra-1 well drilled in 2019, also failed, prompting the driller’s exit. A 2023 offering of 12 offshore blocks likewise attracted no bids. Spanning almost 300,000 square kilometres and bordering energy-rich neighbours, such as Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Iran, Pakistan’s offshore region remains geologically promising despite earlier disappointments. In September 2024, reports indicated that Pakistan may hold significant offshore oil and gas deposits. Pakistan has waited many decades for a breakthrough in offshore exploration. The coming years will determine whether this renewed push becomes a historic success, or another missed opportunity. For now, however, the sense of possibility is greater than it has been in a more than a generation, and that alone is a step forward.

The writer is a freelance columnist

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COMMENT 05

Monday, 12 January, 2026

Russian Economy and Discontents The war is wearing it down

Dr MuhaMMaD akraM zaheer By 2025, Russia’s war-driven economy has entered a phase marked not by collapse, but by exhaustion. The strain is felt most sharply within the country’s industrial elites and large business circles, whose patience has thinned under mounting financial pressure, declining output, and an increasingly rigid policy environment. Senior managers from major industrial firms now describe the year as the most difficult since the 1998 rouble crisis, a comparison that carries deep historical weight in Russia’s economic memory. While public order remains intact and political control firm, discontent among business leaders has become more visible, more vocal, and harder

for the Kremlin to ignore. This frustration is not the product of a sudden shock. Rather, it reflects the cumulative effect of prolonged sanctions, restricted access to finance and technology, high interest rates, and the redirection of resources toward military needs. For Russia’s industrial sector long accustomed to state protection, energy rents, and predictable demand the current environment represents a break with the post-2000 model that underpinned growth and elite loyalty. Executives across metallurgy, chemicals, mechanical engineering, and other core sectors privately describe 2025 sales as the weakest in nearly three decades. The comparison to 1998 is significant. That year witnessed a banking collapse, a sovereign default, and a sharp fall in real incomes. While today’s Russia does not face the same immediate financial disarray, the sense of stagnation and lost momentum resonates strongly with those who lived through that earlier crisis. An industry representative summed up the mood with unusual bluntness: “Industry endured the initial period of the artificial cooling of the Russian economy with understanding, but in 2025, its patience ran out.” The phrase “artificial cooling” reflects widespread resentment toward tight monetary policy, which business leaders argue has choked investment and demand at a moment when industry already faces external constraints. Official data reinforces these complaints.

The central paradox of Russia in 2025 is that political control coexists with elite discomfort. The system remains intact, security services loyal, and opposition fragmented or exiled. Yet the economic foundations that sustained elite support are weakening. Industrialists do not seek upheaval, but they increasingly question the costs they are being asked to bear. For now, the Kremlin appears willing to absorb this dissatisfaction, relying on repression, fiscal buffers, and nationalist framing. Whether this balance can be maintained over the medium term will depend on external conditions, the trajectory of the war, and the state’s capacity to offer business a credible path back to growth

By November 2025, industrial production showed clear contraction across multiple sectors. Metallurgy recorded a year-on-year decline of 4.1 percent, chemicals fell by 1.7 percent, and mechanical engineering closely tied to investment cycles contracted by 5.4 percent. Particularly telling was the 0.8 percent decline in food production, the first such drop in 15 years, suggesting that even domestically oriented and politically sensitive sectors are no longer insulated. These figures matter not only economically, but also politically. Heavy industry remains central to Russia’s employment ,base, export earnings, and regional stability. Sustained contraction threatens company balance sheets, regional budgets, and the informal social contract that links industrial employers, local authorities, and the federal centre. At the heart of elite frustration lies the cost of money. With interest rates exceeding 16 per cent, borrowing for expansion or even working capital has become prohibitively expensive for many firms. The Central Bank has defended this stance as necessary to contain inflation and stabilise the rouble, particularly in an economy operating near capacity due to defence orders and labour shortages. Industrialists, however, see a policy mismatch. They argue that while defence-linked enterprises benefit from state guarantees and contracts, civilian industries face tightening credit, weak demand, and limited access to foreign markets. The result is a two-speed economy in which non-military sectors bear the burden of adjustment. Macroeconomic indicators add to the sense of malaise. Growth forecasts for 2025 hover around 0.6 percent, a sharp slowdown from earlier wartime expansion driven by defence spending. At the same time, oil and gas revenues, still a cornerstone of the federal budget, fell by roughly 34 percent yearon-year in November. Lower prices, discounts on Russian exports, and logistical constraints have combined to reduce fiscal space. To bridge the gap, the government has relied increasingly on reserves while sustaining elevated military expenditure, estimated by various analysts at between 9 and 15 per cent or more of GDP. This reallocation has supported short-term stability but deepened long-term concerns among business elites about crowding out, tax pressure, and future austerity. This discontent has often been described, particularly on social media, as an “internal revolt.” Such language is mislead-

ing. What is taking shape is not an organised challenge to the political leadership, nor an elite mutiny reminiscent of armed confrontations seen in earlier episodes. There is no evidence of coordinated opposition activity, mass resignations, or defections within the business class. Instead, the current mood resembles a quiet revolt of expectations. Business leaders are losing money, shelving projects, and confronting stagnation after years in which alignment with the state promised stability and profit. Their criticism is expressed cautiously, often through industry associations, closed-door meetings, or carefully worded comments in business media. The message, however, is consistent: the war-centred economic model is increasingly viewed as unsustainable. At the societal level, overt dissent remains rare. Public protest is tightly controlled, and the costs of visible opposition are well understood. Isolated actions such as a small park-church protest in Krasnodar in mid-December or petition lines over local, non-political issues serve more as symbolic signals than as indicators of broader mobilisation. Polling suggests rising war fatigue and economic anxiety, with many citizens listing the end of the conflict and living standards as primary concerns. Yet repression and the absence of organisational space limit how these sentiments can be expressed. For the Kremlin, the lack of mass protest reinforces confidence that control remains intact, even as underlying pressures build. Within the Russian leadership, assessments of the situation appear uneven. Economic officials at the Central Bank and Finance Ministry reportedly deliver sober briefings on inflation risks, labour shortages, and reserve depletion. Military and security briefings, by contrast, are widely portrayed as more optimistic, emphasising resilience

and incremental gains. This divergence matters. Decision-making in Moscow has long depended on the balance between economic pragmatism and strategic ambition. As long as the leadership prioritises war aims, economic concerns even when voiced by influential business figures are likely to remain secondary. Yet there are signs of limited recalibration. On December 26, a report indicated that President Vladimir Putin told businessmen he seeks full control of Donbas but might consider territorial swaps elsewhere. Such remarks suggest an awareness of economic strain and a willingness to explore negotiations that could ease pressure without conceding core objectives. For business elites, this signals potential relief rather than political change. Any move toward talks particularly if linked to shifts in Western leadership raises hopes of sanctions easing, lower interest rates, and a return to predictable conditions. At the same time, few expect rapid transformation; caution remains the dominant stance. The central paradox of Russia in 2025 is that political control coexists with elite discomfort. The system remains intact, security services loyal, and opposition fragmented or exiled. Yet the economic foundations that sustained elite support are weakening. Industrialists do not seek upheaval, but they increasingly question the costs they are being asked to bear. For now, the Kremlin appears willing to absorb this dissatisfaction, relying on repression, fiscal buffers, and nationalist framing. Whether this balance can be maintained over the medium term will depend on external conditions, the trajectory of the war, and the state’s capacity to offer business a credible path back to growth. The writer has a PhD in Political Science and can be reached at akramzaheer86@yahoo.com

Protests won’t bring down the Iranian regime

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The downfall of the Islamic Republic will be nasty, brutish, and likely long A few regime hangers-on may have second homes in Toronto, but the core of the clerical and security establishment consists of true believers. They have no desire or even ability to flee abroad. They will fight and kill to stay in power

SUBSTACK

Borzou Daragahi

OR more than 10 days Iranians across dozens of cities have been spilling out into the streets in another major round of protests, the biggest since the “women, life, freedom” movement that rocked the country beginning in September of 2022. The demonstrations this time were triggered by a currency devaluation that further pressured bazaar merchants, who were the first to take to the streets. They were followed by the students and the young, who generally grab any opportunity to show their opposition to a regime that is universally despised. The protests have since spread to provincial cities, especially to ethnic minority towns of the country’s border areas and have begun to gather momentum in the big cities. Iran has been rocked by waves of protests since 1999. Demands have included greater political freedoms and an end to the country’s economic stagnation and international isolations. The protests have become increasingly radical over the years. Calls for reform of the political system eventually gave way to demands for the downfall of the Islamic regime. Iran’s biggest protests by far were the wave of mass demonstrations triggered by the disputed 2009 re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. They drew hundreds of thousands in major cities. They also had the blessing of major factions with the political and clerical elite. That made by far the most threatening to the regime. They went on for months, led to thousands of arrests, and helped the regime fine-tune its repressive apparatus to deal with and eventually squelch subsequent protests.

The Islamic regime in Tehran is one of the worst governments in the world. It combines Soviet-level ideological dogmatism, North Korea-level repression, administrative incompetence, and gross corruption. Iranians deserve better, and they know it. Because elections offer limited choices and elected officials have little power over Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the permanent security apparatus lording over the country, Iranians have few channels for expressing political demands other than protests, and the regime knows it. The country’s rulers came to power on a wave of mass protests that led to the overthrow of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi’s rule. They have spent the last 47 years making sure they don’t suffer the same fate. They have spent years coming up with strategies to neutralize any attempt at internal regime change. And they’ve become quite good at it. There is well-informed speculation that the Iranian regime, like that in Algeria and other messy hybrid republics, also allows a certain amount of protests as a safety valve. Protests are also an effective way to identify troublemakers. The cops record the protests. They identify those leading the chants and guiding the other protesters. They dispatch intelligence officers to round the emerging leaders up in the pre-dawn hours. They sentence them to months and years in prison, where they are subjected to mental torture and physical duress. They are released but kept under near constant surveillance. I and others have written Iranian protests lacking organization and leadership mostly fail to amount to significant political shifts. But Iran’s waves of street actions can nevertheless push change. The 2009 uprising likely convinced Khamenei to stop fiddling brazenly with election results. The “woman, life, freedom” marches ushered unmistak-

Protests are also an effective way to identify troublemakers. The cops record the protests. They identify those leading the chants and guiding the other protesters. They dispatch intelligence officers to round the emerging leaders up in the pre-dawn hours

A

NEWS BISCUIT JereMynh

FTER capturing Venezuela's chief narco-terrierist and indicting him in the States,' said an increasingly deranged Donald Trump, stroking a Russian Putin cat at his desk in the Oval Office, 'I'm serving notice on the rest of the world's terrier groups that I'll be

Iranians realize that regime collapse or foreign intervention could worsen their economic plight and threaten their security able cultural changes and the abandonment of the enforcement of dress codes on women. But except for those in 2009, Iran’s protests have not offered any possible roadmap to substantive political change. Iranians seem to sense this, and the numbers of protesters in the big cities have thus far failed to match the crowds gathering in provincial towns, like Abdnanan in the largely Kurdish border region. The truth is that protests in and of themselves are scary to the bulk of Iranians. They see people fighting in the streets. They hear foreign leaders abroad threaten their country just months after it was bombed. Like ordinary people they stay from crowds, denying protests the critical mass they need to be effective. They stay home because more than freedom, the bulk of Iranians cherish order, nazm, above all. Iranians realize that regime collapse or foreign intervention could worsen their economic plight and threaten their security. I say this as someone who has lived among Iranians my whole life and in Tehran for years. I speak the language and have been in the middle of all sorts of protests in Iran as a journalist covering the country for decades. The Islamic Republic deserves to be swept into the dustbin of history. But the harsh reality is that there will be no soft transition away from it. Any regime change will likely be violent, prolonged, and destructive. Here are some other tough truths: Iran is a powderkeg. I remember those who told me confidently in 2003 that Iraqis are not as reckless as the Lebanese and won’t fight each other along sectarian lines, that Syrians were “civilized” unlike those “tribal” Iraqis who bombed and shot each other in waves of mass killings after the US invasion, and that Libya was too rich and too homogenous to disintegrate. Iran has as many if not more ethnic, religious, class, and regional cleavages as its Middle East neighbors. It is also loaded with small arms and young men

trained during their mandatory military service to use them. It could easily explode or collapse. The regime is cornered and dangerous. Khamenei is in trouble and he knows it. The country’s strategic position and deterrence capabilities have been degraded by the US and Israeli airstrikes last summer, which also showed the ineffectiveness of the alliances it has built with Russia and China. Its economy is collapsing, and its strategy of pivoting east has utterly failed. The decent thing for Khamenei to do would be to announce that he would step down and hand power to a transitional body. But that’s a fantasy. More likely the regime will double down on violent repression at home and seek to rebuild its deterrent capabilities abroad. They believe they have no choice. A few regime hangers-on may have second homes in Toronto, but the core of the clerical and security establishment consists of true believers. They have no desire or even ability to flee abroad. They will fight and kill to stay in power. The regime has extraordinary tools of repression and psychological warfare at its disposal, many of which it has yet to deploy against the protesters. For example, it has yet to deploy the uniformed soldiers of the Revolutionary Guard and the armed forces. Reza Pahlavi can’t save Iran. The son of the deposed shah, is ill-equipped to serve as a transitional figure. If he tries to do so it will

likely be a disaster for Iran and for him. It’s not just that he is an uncharismatic intellectual lightweight. He is barely even Iranian. He has lived in the US for nearly 50 of his 66 years and has accomplished little during his exile years. Meanwhile, the country is unrecognizable from the pre-revolutionary era. It has also transformed dramatically in the last 20 years. Parts of the country are lawless, closer to Yemen than Turkey. Ethnic tensions persist. Economic inequality is rife. Pahlavi is a guy who can barely run a coherent opposition movement abroad, much less oversee a volatile, ethnically and religiously diverse country nestled between Iraq and Afghanistan. The US can’t help. Don’t believe Iranians abroad and self-described experts who demand that America, Europe, and others “do more” to support the protests. There is nothing they can do to help. The US continues to be toxic for many in the Middle East and Iran, especially given its track record in Iraq and the Arab Spring and its support for Israel during its prolonged assault on the people of Gaza. Any kinetic action in support of the protests would likely backfire. Western support for human rights in Iran also looks hypocritical given the West’s silence over human rights abuses by Israel and the Gulf states. None of this is to say that ordinary people shouldn’t strongly back the protesters and boost their messages. I strongly support the Iranian protestors, and you should, too. I hope their bravery leads to positive change. Already there are signs that the government is adopting a different strategy in grappling with the current protests, embracing them at moments as expressions of legitimate grievance. But I also urge caution and restraint about concluding that they will lead to regime change. Like many Iranians inside the country, I dread chaos. I have watched too many countries in the Middle East spiral into disaster and unrelenting misery as a result of cataclysmic political transformation. I don’t want the Islamic Republic. No one sane does. But also don’t want to see tens of millions of Iranians endure the type of suffering and deprivation experienced by Syrians, Iraqis, Libyans, Afghans, and too many others in the region.

I don’t want to see tens of millions of Iranians endure the type of suffering and deprivation experienced by Syrians, Iraqis, Libyans, Afghans, and too many others in the region

Trump declares war on terrier groups across the world SATIRE

coming after them, as well. 'They tell me there are a bunch of terreierists over there in Britain, in Yorkshire and Staffordshire and Airedale, so we'll be

sending in Delta Force to take over those places. 'And I'm hearing all the time now about Maltese terrierists, so we better do a regime change in Maltesa - as soon as my generals can find that on a map.

'And the CIA is still looking for a place called Pitbull. It sounds familiar. 'What I really want is for there to some terrier groups in Greenland, because I'd sure like an excuse to invade that place. 'That's why I'm ordering the American

Kennel Club to breed up some genuine Greeland terrierists immediately. 'Sleepy Joe knew all about these foreign terrier groups, but he never went after them,' the president continued to rant. 'But that's because he wasn't barking.'

06 NEWS

US SAYS CARRIED OUT ‘LARGE-SCALE’ STRIKES AGAINST IS IN SYRIA

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WASHINGTON Agencies

S and allied forces carried out “large-scale” strikes against the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group in Syria on Saturday, the US military said, the latest response to an attack last month that killed three Americans. US Central Command (Centcom), which oversees American military forces in the region, said multiple strikes “targeted ISIS throughout Syria,” using an acronym for the terrorist group. Centcom’s post on X did not give specifics on where they took place. Grainy aerial video accompanying the post showed several separate explosions, apparently in rural areas. The strikes were part of Operation Hawkeye Strike, which was launched “in direct response to the deadly ISIS attack on US and Syrian forces in Palmyra,” Centcom said. Two US soldiers and a US civilian interpreter were killed on December 13 after a lone gunman — whom Washington described as an IS militant — ambushed them in Palmyra. Syria’s interior ministry later said the gunman was a member of the security forces who had been set to be fired for extremism. “We will never forget, and never relent,” US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday in a post on X, replying to the Centcom statement. The United States and Jordan carried

out a round of strikes last month in response to the Palmyra attack, with Centcom saying at the time that “more than 70 targets” had been hit. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor, later reported those strikes killed at least five IS members, including a cell leader. On January 3, Britain and France announced joint strikes targeting an underground facility they said IS had likely used to store weapons. The US personnel targeted in Palmyra were supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the international effort to combat IS, which seized swaths of Syrian and Iraqi territory in 2014. The IS members were ultimately defeated by local ground forces backed by

India proposes forcing smartphone makers to give source code in security overhaul MUMBAI

Agencies

India proposes requiring smartphone makers to share source code with the government and make several software changes as part of a raft of security measures, prompting behind-the-scenes opposition from giants like Apple and Samsung. The tech companies have countered that the package of 83 security standards, which would also include a requirement to alert the government to major software updates, lacks any global precedent and risks revealing proprietary details, according to four people familiar with the discussions and a Reuters review of confidential government and industry documents. The plan is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to boost the security of user data as online fraud and data breaches increase in the world's second-largest smartphone market, with nearly 750 million phones. IT Secretary S Krishnan told Reuters that "any legitimate concerns of the industry will be addressed with an open mind", adding it was "premature to read more into it". A ministry spokesperson said it could not comment further due to ongoing consultation with tech companies on the proposals. Apple, South Korea's Samsung, Google, China's Xiaomi and MAIT, the Indian industry group that represents the firms, did not respond to requests for comment. Indian government requirements have irked technology firms before. Last month, it revoked an order mandating a state-run cyber safety app on phones amid concerns over surveillance. But the government brushed aside lobbying last year and required rigorous testing for security cameras over fears of Chinese spying. Xiaomi and Samsung, whose phones use Google's Android operating system, hold 19% and 15%, respectively, of India's market share, while Apple holds 5%, according to Counterpoint Research. Among the most sensitive requirements in the new Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements is access to source code - the underlying programming instructions that make phones work. This would be analysed and possibly tested at designated Indian labs, the documents show. The Indian proposals also require companies to make software changes to allow pre-installed apps to be uninstalled and to block apps from using cameras and microphones in the background to "avoid malicious usage". "Industry raised concerns that globally security requirements have not been mandated by any country," said a December IT ministry document detailing meetings that officials held with Apple, Samsung, Google and Xiaomi.

international air strikes and other support, but the IS still has a presence in Syria, especially in the country’s vast desert. US President Donald Trump has long been sceptical of Washington’s presence in Syria, ordering the withdrawal of troops during his first term but ultimately leaving American forces in the country. The Pentagon announced in April that the United States would halve the number of US personnel in Syria in the following months, while US envoy for Syria Tom Barrack said in June that Washington would eventually reduce its bases in the country to one. Syria govt forces detain 300 Kurds, evacuate 400 fighters from Aleppo Meanwhile, Syrian government forces evacuated more than 400 Kurdish

fighters from the last district in Aleppo to fall to the army and detained 300 Kurds, an interior ministry official told AFP on Sunday. Kurdish forces said the combatants were evacuated “through the mediation of international parties to stop the attacks and violations against our people in Aleppo”. The two sides clashed in Aleppo city earlier this week, after negotiations to integrate the Kurds into the country’s new government stalled. The ministry official, who requested anonymity, said that 419 fighters, including 59 wounded and an unspecified number of “killed” were transferred from the Sheikh Maqsud neighbourhood to the Kurds’ de facto autonomous zone in the northeast. An AFP correspondent saw buses filled with men leaving Sheikh Maqsud under escort by government forces during the night. The official added that 300 other Kurds, including fighters, have been arrested. On Saturday, an AFP correspondent saw dozens of young men in civilian clothing seated on the ground and guarded by security forces, before they were transported to an unknown location. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights told AFP that 300 “young Kurds” had been arrested, stating that they were “civilians, not fighters”. In the Kurdish-majority city of Qamishli in the northeast, hundreds of people gathered for the arrival of the wounded, according to AFP correspondents on the ground.

US to cut Venezuelan aid to Cuba if no deal, Trump says WASHINGTON Agencies

US President Donald Trump urged Cuba on Sunday to “make a deal” or face unspecified consequences, warning that the flow of Venezuelan oil and money to Havana would now stop. “THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO!” Trump said on his Truth Social channel. “I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.” His remarks come a week after US forces seized Venezuela’s authoritarian leader Nicolas Maduro in a nighttime operation in Caracas that killed dozens of Venezuelan and Cuban security forces. Earlier on Sunday Trump reposted a message suggesting that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio could become the president of now communist-ruled Cuba. Trump shared that post with the comment: “Sounds good to me!”

In his own post soon afterwards, Trump said that “Cuba lived, for many years, on large amounts of OIL and MONEY from Venezuela. In return, Cuba provided ‘Security Services’ for the last two Venezuelan dictators, BUT NOT ANYMORE!” “Most of those Cubans are DEAD from last week’s USA at-

tack, and Venezuela doesn’t need protection anymore from the thugs and extortionists who held them hostage for so many years.” Under a US trade embargo, Havana since 2000 has increasingly relied on Venezuelan oil provided as part of a deal struck with Maduro’s predecessor Hugo Chavez.

10 people convicted for harassing France’s first lady over transgender claim PARIS

Agencies

A Paris court has convicted 10 individuals for online harassment of Brigitte Macron, France’s first lady, after they spread false claims that she is a transgender woman. The accused, comprising eight men and two women, used social media to propagate the conspiracy theory that Macron was born male and originally named Jean‑Michel Trogneux, the name of her older brother. Some posts also attempted to link the 24-year age gap between her and her husband, President Emmanuel Macron, to accusations of “pedophilia.”

The court sentenced the offenders to prison terms ranging from six months to eight months,

with some receiving suspended sentences. In addition to fines, the convicted individuals were required to take anti-cyber-harassment courses, and five of them were banned from the social media platforms where they posted the abusive content. This ruling comes as the Macrons pursue a separate defamation case in the United States against commentator Candace Owens, who has also repeated the same false claim about Brigitte Macron. In a TV interview, the first lady revealed that she is taking legal action to combat harassment and to set an example for others who face similar online abuse.

Monday, 12 January 2026 | ISLAMABAD

Bangladesh suspends Indian visas, IPL broadcast DHAKA

Agencies

Despite growing threats from Hindu extremists, Bangladesh has taken a firm stance against India and suspended the issuance of visas for Indian citizens. Bangladesh has expanded the suspension of visa services to three additional major diplomatic missions in India, marking a significant escalation in bilateral tensions. The move has drawn international attention. The American magazine Foreign Policy described the situation as a political embarrassment for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underlining the growing diplomatic rift between the two neighbours. In a further demonstration of its protest, the Bangladesh cricket team announced that it would not play its scheduled World Cup matches in India. Meanwhile, the country has also imposed a ban on the broadcasting of the Indian Premier League (IPL), signalling a comprehensive response that spans both diplomacy and sports. Analysts say Bangladesh’s multifaceted approach highlights its intent to assert sovereignty while responding decisively to pressures from India, emphasising that the South Asian nation is unwilling to compromise under external threats.

Nordic countries dismiss Trump’s assertion of Russian and Chinese ships near Greenland

WASHINGTON Agencies

Nordic diplomats have firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s claims that Chinese and Russian vessels are operating near Greenland, according to a report from the Financial Times. The diplomats, who had access to NATO intelligence briefings, stated that there have been no sightings of Russian or Chinese ships or submarines around Greenland in recent years. One senior diplomat emphasized that the intelligence data clearly showed no such presence. Trump has repeatedly suggested that Russian and Chinese ships are active in the waters around Greenland, a claim that Denmark disputes. He has provided no evidence to support these allegations. Earlier this week, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen refuted Trump’s claims, stating that the idea of Russian and Chinese ships operating near Greenland was incorrect. Rasmussen also dismissed rumors of large Chinese investments in the region. Vessel tracking data from MarineTraffic and LSEG show no evidence of Russian or Chinese vessels near Greenland. Greenland’s local assembly, in response to the growing tensions, announced they would bring forward a meeting to discuss how to handle US threats over the island. Trump has also voiced his opinion that the United States must own Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, to prevent Russian or Chinese influence in the strategically important and mineral-rich area. This latest development is concerning for many of Greenland’s 57,000 residents, many of whom hope to eventually achieve independence.

China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation BEIJING

stAff correspondent

Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday that China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho. During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year and spoke highly of Lesotho government’s efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho’s development and

revitalization, Wang said. China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added. Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho’s specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho’s national development. China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said. On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China’s valuable support for the development of

African countries, including Lesotho. Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy. Matekane stressed that China’s zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho’s development. He also expressed Lesotho’s willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges. On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho. Wang said China regards Lesotho as a strategic partner and is ready to work with Lesotho to set an example of mutual respect, equal cooperation, and common development between countries of different sizes. Noting that in today’s world, unilateral

hegemony and protectionism threaten world peace and harm the interests of all countries, especially small and medium-sized countries, Wang said China proposed the Global Governance Initiative, aiming to promote prosperity through development, maintain stability through security, enhance mutual trust through civilization, and seek justice

through governance. He called on both sides to strengthen strategic mutual trust, expand people-to-people and cultural exchanges, make good use of the benefits of the zero-tariff policy, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, and promote the continuous development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.

NEWS 07

DEADLY PROTESTS: IRAN VOWS TO STRIKE OSP Lahore chapter polls 2026: Prof. Chaudhry ISRAEL, US BASES IN REGION IF ATTACKED Javed Iqbal Panel makes

Monday, 12 January 2026 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER clean sweep

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Professor Chaudhry Javed Iqbal’s panel has secured a clean sweep victory by defeating its rivals by a huge margin in the annual elections of the Ophthalmological Society of Pakistan (OSP) Lahore Branch.A large number of eminent ophthalmologists and members from across the city participated in these elections held at OSP House Lahore on Saturday, January 10, 2026. The exceptional turnout of voters expressed complete confidence in the leadership of Prof. Javed Iqbal. It may be recalled that Prof. Javed Iqbal had rendered exemplary services to the society as President in the year 2025, in continuation of which he has now been re-elected as “President-Elect”. All the candidates of Professor Chaudhry Javed Iqbal’s panel won by a significant margin, including Prof. Muhammad Arshad Mahmood as General Secretary, Dr. Irfan Karamat as Joint Secretary and Dr. Adeel Randhawa as Treasurer and were declared successful. Professor Chaudhry Javed Iqbal, the newly elected Presidentelect, while addressing his colleagues after the victory, thanked all the members. He said that this victory is actually a victory of the unity and professionalism of the society. He reiterated the commitment that the newly elected team will work day and night for the betterment of the society, promotion of medical research and protection of the rights of eye specialists.

Pakistan Navy Flotilla visits Oman during overseas deployment

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Navy Flotilla comprising of PNS RAH NAWARD (Sail Ship), PNS MADADGAR and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) ship PMSS KASHMIR visited Port Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, Oman. Upon arrival at the port, the ships were warmly welcomed by Omani authorities.During the visit, Mission Commander, Commodore Amir Iqbal, along with the Commanding Officers held meetings with naval leadership of Oman. Mission Commander called on Acting Commander of Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), DG Ops and Plans, Commander Maritime Security Centre, Commander Said Bin Sultan Naval Base and Commandant Sultan Qaboos Naval Academy. During these interactions, matters of mutual interest, Navy-to-Navy engagements, and cooperation in maritime security were discussed. RNO Officers and Midshipmen also visited onboard ships and discussed topics of mutual maritime interest with PN officers. Pakistan Navy Ships were opened for visitors; wherein, large number of Pakistani community and students from Pakistan School, Muscat visited onboard.Following the port call, PN and PMSA ships conducted a Passage Exercise with Royal Oman Navy ship KHASAB. The exercise at sea aimed to enhance interoperability between the two navies and promote shared learning through bilateral conduct of naval exercises.

Over 1.5b Shares Benefitted Small PSX Investors: The Real Winners in the S&P bestperforming Asia-Pacific bank stocks KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

The Pakistan Banks’ Association (PBA) extended its heartiest congratulations to the entire banking industry, and specifically to the seven Pakistani banks that have secured positions in the top 15 Asia-Pacific banks in 2025, as ranked by S&P Global Market Intelligence. This global accolade is not just an institutional victory; it is a win for the common man. With a combined total return of the seven top performing banks alone, the value creation is massive. It directly benefits the small investors holding over 1.5 billion shares at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), who are the real owners of this success story. In a statement the CEO and Secretary General of PBA, Muneer Kamal, highlighted that the sheer volume of shares rallying signifies that the benefits of this performance are reaching the grassroots level of the capital market. United Bank Limited (UBL) leading the industry with the highest market capitalization and continues to balance scale with exceptional returns proving that large-cap stability and agility can go hand in hand. Public Sector excellence & governance is very much evident in the rankings with historic performance by the public sector banks. The Bank of Punjab topping the entire Asia-Pacific ranking in terms of total percentage return, followed by the

I

TEHRAN afp

RAN warned President Donald Trump on Sunday that any attack by the United States would trigger Tehran’s retaliation against Israel and American military bases in the region, as tensions escalate over Washington’s increasingly vocal support for anti-government protests sweeping the Islamic Republic. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf told lawmakers that Israel and regional US military installations would be considered “legitimate targets” if Washington launches strikes against Iran, marking a sharp escalation in rhetoric as the country faces its largest protest movement in years. The warning comes as Israel has placed its military on high alert for the possibility of US intervention in Iran, according to three Israeli sources with knowledge of security consultations held over the weekend. The sources did not elaborate on what the heightened alert status means in practical terms. President Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene in recent days, warning Iran’s rulers against using force

against demonstrators. “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Saturday, without providing specifics on what form American assistance might take. A day earlier, Trump said Iran was in “big trouble” and again warned he could order military strikes against the country. The escalating situation prompted a phone call Saturday between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US

Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the possibility of American intervention, according to an Israeli source present for the conversation. A US official confirmed the call took place but declined to specify what topics were discussed. Israel and Iran fought a 12-day war in June during which the US joined Israel in launching airstrikes. Current tensions remain high over Israeli concerns about Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

Pakistan earns honour, global respect due to courageous leadership of Pakistan Armed Forces: Aleem Khan KAMOKE

Staff RepoRt

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan on Sunday said that Pakistan had earned honour and global respect due to the courageous leadership of the Pakistan Armed Forces under the Army Chief, Field Marshal Syed Hafiz Asim Munir. Addressing a party workers’ convention here as chief guest, he said Allah Almighty had bestowed honour upon Pakistan as its brave Armed Forces humbled the enemy and demonstrated exceptional professional strength. “Today no one dares to look at Pakistan with ill intent,” he remarked, said a press release. He said it has never happened before that seven enemy aircrafts were shot down while not a single one of ours was lost. Our brave falcons downed four Indian Rafale jets; today even their manufacturer company claiming that it was not their fault rather that the Indian pilots did

not know how to fly. Abdul Aleem Khan said that during the May 2025 confrontation, China, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye stood with us like brothers. When the Army Chief is courageous, the soldier standing behind him also becomes brave and fights fearlessly. He added that it is a matter of pride for Pakistan that other countries are purchasing our aircrafts. Today the enemy’s head has bowed and Alhamdulillah we are holding high forum with pride. Abdul Aleem Khan expressed concern that fingers are pointed at those soldiers because of whom we sleep peacefully. He said we cannot allow accusations against the Pakistan Army for whom widows sacrificed their husbands and parents gave their beloved sons. He urged the youth to rise and through their mobile phones, give a befitting response to negative campaigns spreading chaos and insecurity. He said politics should be done but those who abuse the Pakistan Army should

have their tongues pulled back. Reiterating the Istehkam Pakistan Party’s proposal for the creation of new provinces, Abdul Aleem Khan said that the Party has launched a movement for this mission. We want immediate and sustainable solutions to the problems of people in far-flung areas. We will not change the names of provinces; new provinces should be created in Punjab as North, South, West, and East Punjab. For this purpose, political parties must rise above narrowmindedness and show magnanimity as it is in everyone’s own interest. Welcoming support from MQM and other political parties for the proposal of new provinces, he said this would save people’s time and energy and allow their issues to be resolved closer to their doorstep. He added that not only Punjab, but Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should also be divided into four provinces each with new names.

Second phase of training session for Hajj 2026 pilgrims at Haji Camp

Syed Arif Hussain Shah condemns closure of Utility Stores Corporation

Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony organized the second phase of the training session for Hajj 2026 pilgrimsat the Haji Camp, Islamabad.According to the ministry’s spokesperson, the primary objective of this program was to provide comprehensive awareness regarding the various stages of the pilgrimage, necessary precautionary measures, and the obligatory acts (Faraiz and Wajibat) of Hajj and Umrah.During the session, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Umar Butt, briefed the participants on administrative matters, departure procedures, and accommodation in Makkah and Madinah.Master Trainer Tanveer Asghar provided technical training on the methods of performing Hajj and Umrah, highlighting the religious obligations.The event was attended by Director of Haji Complex Islamabad, Qazi Sami-urRehman, Deputy Director Hakim Khan Khattak, and other senior officials.Pilgrims were advised to improve their physical fitness by walking 2 to 3 kilometers daily. Essential travel documents including the original passport, CNIC, flight ticket, visa copies, and vaccination cards (for Meningitis, Flu, and Polio) must be kept ready.A strict warning was issued against carrying prohibited items such as narcotics, Naswar, cigarettes, and unverified medicines.The Ministry has made the Pak Hajj App” mandatory for all pilgrims to access flight schedules, accommodation details, and group information.Furthermore, the procedure for remote biometric verification via the “Saudi Visa Bio” app was explained in detail.For those arriving directly in Madinah, the stay will range from 3 to 8 days before proceeding to Makkah.In Makkah, approximately 250 buildings have been arranged for accommodation, with a 24-hour free shuttle bus service available to transport pilgrims to the Haram Sharif.

Syed Arif Hussain Shah, Central Secretary General of the All Pakistan Workers Alliance, Utility Stores Corporation of Pakistan, has strongly condemned the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s statement terming the closure of the Utility Stores Corporation as an “achievement,” as well as the allegations of corruption leveled against the institution. He stated that the closure of Utility Stores is tantamount to a grave mockery of the poor.He said that Utility Stores were the last affordable source of essential food items for the poor and middle class. Their closure has directly affected millions of low-income families, while thousands of employees have been rendered jobless. Unfortunately, the government has not only shut down the institution but has also failed to pay the approved severance package and other legal dues to the affected employees to date, which is clear evidence of the rulers’ insensitivity and incompetence.Rejecting the Prime Minister’s statement regarding corruption, Syed Arif Hussain Shah said that if corruption indeed existed in the Utility Stores, shutting down the institution was not the solution. Instead, those involved in corruption should have been brought to justice in accordance with the law. Mere blame-shifting will neither resolve the problems of the poor nor restore public trust in state institutions.He termed the government’s decision to distribute the Ramadan Package through a digital wallet as a reflection of ignorance of ground realities, stating that a large segment of Pakistan’s poor population still does not have access to digital systems. The digital wallet mechanism may become a means to favor specific political workers rather than benefiting the poor, which is unacceptable.

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SSP stresses resolution of women’s issues at police stations level

RAWALPINDI: Senior Superintendent of Police SSP (Operations) Malik Tariq Mehboob has stressed that issues faced by women must be resolved promptly at the police station level.He said while chairing a meeting of women police officers at the Rawalpindi Police Headquarters on the directions of City Police Officer CPO Syed Khalid Hamdani.The meeting was attended by DSP Admin Shahida Yasmin along with women police officers from across the district.Addressing the participants, SSP Malik Tariq Mehboob said that resolving women’s complaints is a top priority and no negligence in service delivery will be tolerated.He said women officers with skills in driving, computers, and modern technology will be further empowered and deployed more effectively in field duties, monitoring, and service delivery.He also directed that all women officers assigned to special duties must ensure punctuality and professional conduct.The SSP further emphasized that cases involving abuse and violence against women and children must be investigated strictly on merit and concluded without delay. Staff RepoRt

Despite the heightened alert, Israel has not signaled a desire to directly intervene as protests grip Iran. In an interview with the Economist published Friday, Netanyahu warned of “horrible consequences” for Iran if it were to attack Israel, but alluded to the protests by saying, “everything else, I think we should see what is happening inside Iran.” The two weeks of demonstrations have posed one of the biggest challenges to the theocratic authorities who have ruled Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution, although supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has expressed defiance and blamed the US. Following the movement’s largest protests yet on Thursday, new demonstrations took place late Friday, according to images verified by AFP and other videos published on social media. This was despite an internet shutdown imposed by the authorities, with monitor Netblocks saying Saturday evening that “Iran has now been offline for 48 hours”. Amnesty International said it was analysing “distressing reports that security forces have intensified their unlawful use of lethal force against protesters” since Thursday in an escalation “that has led to further deaths and injuries”.

FBR & LEAs To Strengthen Inter-Agency Collaboration for Enhanced Enforcement

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

In line with the Federal Board of Revenue’s strategy to enhance anti-smuggling enforcement and facilitate legitimate trade, Syed Shakeel Shah, Member (Customs Operations), FBR, Islamabad, accompanied by Mr. Basit Maqsood Abbasi, Chief Collector of Customs Enforcement, Islamabad, undertook an official visit to Customs House Quetta on 8th and 9th January, 2026.The visiting dignitaries were received by Mr. Masood Ahmed, Chief Collector of Customs (Appraisement), Balochistan; Dr. Karam Elahi, Collector of Customs (Enforcement), Quetta; Mr. Daud Pirzado, Collector of Customs (Appraisement), Quetta & Taftan; and Mr. Fazle Samad, Collector of Customs (Enforcement), Gaddani, along with senior officers from Customs formations.During the briefing, Mr. Masood Ahmed apprised the senior management of trade dynamics in Balochistan and key issues faced by the trading community. Dr. Karam Elahi briefed the delegation on sustained anti-smuggling drives, intelligence-based operations (IBOs), and revenue gains achieved through strict enforcement. Mr. Fazle Samad highlighted robust enforcement actions and significant recoveries in Gaddani jurisdiction.A delegation of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce & Industry also met the senior leadership and discussed trade-related concerns. The Member (Customs Operations) and the Chief Collector Customs Enforcement Islamabad issued on-the-spot directions for expeditious resolution of the issues raised.

Burnout, heart disease and anxiety are quietly killing Pakistan’s doctors

KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan’s doctors are becoming some of the country’s most neglected patients, with new data presented at a national academic forum showing that nearly six out of every ten physicians are burned out, around 80 percent are physically exhausted and suicide rates among doctors are almost double those of the general population.The warning came as senior cardiologists and mental health experts linked this crisis directly to rising heart disease, obesity, depression and anxiety among doctors, particularly in large cities like Karachi where long working hours, chronic stress, pollution, traffic and a hyper competitive medical culture have made healthy living increasingly rare. Global health data shared at the forum showed that heart disease now kills about 21 million people each year worldwide, far more than the 3.4 million deaths recorded from Covid over three years, while stress, physical inactivity and obesity remain the main drivers of this epidemic.These concerns were at the centre of Mediverse Life in a Metro, a nationwide scientific symposium organised by Hudson Pharma as part of its academic initiative to promote evidence based healthcare and physician wellbeing. The Karachi session was held at Zaver Hall, Pearl Continental Hotel, and focused on how metropolitan life is accelerating both physical and emotional illness among healthcare professionals.

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Report nails PRESIDENT PEZESHKIAN CALLS ON CITIZENS NOT TO Forensic PTI in May 9 violence, LET ‘RIOTERS AND TERRORISTS’ DESTABILIZE IRAN says Azma Bokhari

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RANIAN President Masoud Pezeshkian says the nation should not allow rioters to cause insecurity in the country, stressing that protesting is different from rioting. “If the people have concerns, it is our duty to resolve their concerns, but the higher duty is that we must not allow a group of rioters to come and disrupt the entire society,” Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday. Addressing Iran’s youth, Pezeshkian told them “not to be deceived by these rioters and terrorists” as he pleaded with Iranian families not to let their children join the “rioters and terrorists.” “These people are trained,” he warned. The enemies of the Iranian people have trained a group of people both inside and outside the country to destroy public and private properties and kill citizens, he said. “The enemy has infiltrated trained terrorists into the country. Rioters and saboteurs are not the protesting people. We listen to the protestors and have

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made our utmost efforts to solve their problems,” Pezeshkian said. The president reiterated that the United States and Israel were behind the violent riots in the country. “The US and Israel are telling… ‘we are behind you’. The same people who killed children and infants in our country are telling these rioters to go and destroy and burn,” Pezeshkian said, referring to

Survival of Islam does not lie in comfort but in facing trials with patience and faith: Fazl LAHORE

staff correspondent

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Sunday that the survival of Islam does not lie in comfort and ease but in facing trials with patience and faith. Addressing a gathering in Lahore, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that the real duty of today’s generation is to keep alive the mission and vision of their elders. “Everyone who comes into this world has to leave one day. No one stays forever,” he said, adding that at the end of the day, intentions matter more than actions. He said every human being is responsible for his own deeds and that the acceptance of any effort depends on one’s intention. “Islam is a religion of balance. If moderation is ignored, things fall apart and society moves towards extremes,” he remarked. The JUI-F chief said that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was both a teacher and a guide, and that education and moral training are central to prophethood. He said religious seminaries focus on teaching respect and discipline, values that help people stay on the straight path. Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed concern that today’s youth are being disconnected from their elders and historical roots. “Young people are being pushed to cut ties with their traditions and values,” he said. Referring to governance and resistance, he said when oppressive power comes into motion, it takes new forms, and only a firm voice raised against it becomes the voice of truth. “Islam has always stood the test of time by passing through hardships, not by seeking luxury,” he added.

Ex-RAW chief’s ‘no peace with Pakistan’ remark unveils India’s intent: Analysts

Forensic Report ‘identifies’ KP CM, other PTI leaders in May 9 violence LAHORE

staff report

A Punjab Forensic Science Laboratory (PFSL) report has reportedly confirmed the presence of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and several senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders at the scenes of violence on May 9, 2023, marking a significant development in cases stemming from the nationwide unrest that followed the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. According to the official forensic report, the PFSL conducted a detailed audio-visual analysis of videos related to the May 9 incidents at the request of the Peshawar police. The laboratory examined 16 video clips provided on a USB device, analysing them frame by frame to determine authenticity and identify individuals present during the violence.

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Former chief of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), Vikram Sood, has publicly stated that peace with Pakistan is “not possible” under the prevailing circumstances, a remark analysts say mirrors New Delhi’s decades-old mindset of refusing to accept Pakistan as a sovereign country in both policy and practice since 1947. Speaking at the Mangaluru Literature Festival in the Indian state of Karnataka, Sood said that dialogue or compromise with Pakistan carries little meaning unless Islamabad makes what he called a “fundamental change” in its approach. He insisted that India must instead focus on building “strategic strength and selfreliance”. Sood claimed that negotiations with Pakistan are unlikely to succeed due to what he termed “repeated hostilities”, while advocating stronger military capability as a prerequisite for governance. He cited the Balakot airstrike and the so-called Uri attack as examples of India’s assertive posture. Political observers said Sood’s statement clearly reflects the deeply-embedded policy mindset in New Delhi that peace with Pakistan is neither intended nor pursued seriously, and that India has never reconciled itself to Pakistan’s sovereign status since independence. They added that such statements expose India’s aggressive orientation and its preference for confrontation over meaningful dialogue.

The unrest erupted after Imran Khan’s arrest in a corruption case on May 9, triggering protests across multiple cities that quickly turned violent. PTI workers attacked and vandalised military installations and state-owned properties, including the Radio Pakistan building. The forensic analysis found no evidence of editing in several videos, while limited additions of individuals or text were detected in a few clips. Geo News reported that the scope of the examination was strictly limited to visual material. The report stated that evidence of clip splicing was detected in two videos associated with KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and PTI leader Irfan Saleem. A forensic comparison of Afridi’s official profile photograph with footage from the day confirmed that the individual appearing in the video was indeed the chief minister.

Similarly, Irfan Saleem’s presence was verified through a match between his profile image and the person seen in the clips. The laboratory also confirmed PTI leader Kamran Bangash’s presence by matching his profile photograph with video footage, while a clear resemblance was found between former provincial minister Taimur Jhagra’s profile image and the individual appearing in the videos. The PFSL said the report was prepared between December 19 and December 23, 2025, and reiterated that the findings were based solely on visual forensic analysis. The development follows directions from an anti-terrorism court, which had sought a police report in the Radio Pakistan attack case. Subsequently, the videos were forwarded to the Punjab Forensic Science Laboratory for forensic examination as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

Providing youth with internationally competitive education, training among govt’s top priorities: PM Shehbaz staff report

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the June military aggression against Iran. The president said that his administration was responsible for resolving the nation’s problems and easing public concerns, while at the same time preventing rioters from undermining security. Pezeshkian emphasized that the killing of civilians “is not acceptable at all” and said the United States and Israel are training the rioters and supporting them.

Aragchi on US, Israel role in riots: Arson ultimately burns arsonists Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi has strongly warned the United States and the Israeli regime about the consequences of their support for the rioters, who have been seeking to turn economic protests across Iran into unrest. The top diplomat made the remarks in a post on X on Saturday, in which he cited former CIA director Mike Pompeo as verifying the Israeli spy agency Mossad’s contribution to the riots. According to Araghchi, the admission that was made by Pompeo in a post on X earlier this month, debunks the US administration’s allegations against the Islamic Republic of being “delusional” in citing Tel Aviv and Washington’s involvement. “President Trump’s own former CIA Director has openly and unashamedly highlighted what Mossad and its American enablers are really up to,” the foreign minister wrote. Amid the situation, it is rather the US and the Israeli regime, which are “delusional,” he pointed out, saying the delusion featured the allies’ believing that “arson does not ultimately [burn] arsonists.”

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has said that providing Pakistani youth with internationally competitive education and training in the information technology sector is among the government’s top priorities. The prime minister expressed these views during a meeting on Sunday with the parents of late IT prodigy Arfa Karim Randhawa, Samina Amjad and Amjad Karim Randhawa, along with the Chief Executive of the Arfa Karim Foundation, Tabinda Islam. Paying rich tribute to Arfa Karim, the prime minister lauded her remarkable contributions to the IT sector at a young age and for bringing pride to Pakistan on the global stage. He said that in

recognition of her lasting services, the IT Tower in Lahore has been named Arfa Karim Tower. The prime minister stated that the government was working round-the-clock to transform Pakistan into a regional hub for the IT sector. He added that special emphasis was being placed on IT education and training for youth, along with the promotion of entrepreneurship in the technology sector. He said that the federal government was continuing its laptop distribution programme this year as well to encourage high-performing male and female students. Terming the establishment of the Arfa Karim Foundation as a positive step towards the promotion of IT development, the prime minister assured full government support at all levels. The parents of late Arfa Karim

appreciated the government’s initiatives for the development of the IT sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also visited Jamia Ashrafia to express condolence over the sad demise of Jamia Ashrafia Mohtamim Maulana Hafiz Fazal ur Raheem Ashrafi. The prime minister offered condolences to the current Mohtamim-e-Aala Maulana Qari Arshad Ubaid. Deputy Mohtamim-e-Aala Hafiz Asad Ubaid, Deputy Mohtamim and son of the late Maulana Fazal ur Raheem Ashrafi Zubair Hasan and Nazim-e-Aala Qari Maulana Owais Hassan were also present. The prime minister offered Fateha and prayed for elevation of the ranks of the departed soul.

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US President Donald Trump on Sunday suggested Cuba should strike a deal with Washington, warning that the island nation would no longer receive oil or money from Venezuela. Venezuela is Cuba’s biggest oil supplier, but since the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces, Trump has successfully pressed interim President Delcy Rodriguez to send Venezuelan oil to

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Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari on Sunday said a Punjab Forensic Science Laboratory (PFSL) report had provided “irrefutable evidence” that the arson attacks on the Radio Pakistan building, toll plazas and ambulances in Peshawar on May 9, 2023, were part of a “well-planned conspiracy” orchestrated by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), vowing that all those involved would be brought to justice. In a statement, Bokhari said the violence that erupted across the country following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan on May 9 was not spontaneous, but carefully planned by the same elements who later took part in the attacks. She said their planning and execution were reflected in recorded statements, including those of senior PTI leader Murad Saeed. On May 9, PTI supporters staged violent protests nationwide, vandalising military installations and state buildings and attacking the Lahore corps commander’s residence. In the aftermath, thousands of protesters, including party leaders, were arrested. Bokhari said evidence relating to the incidents had already been placed before the public, but the PTI leadership had continued to deny facts and promote what she described as “fabricated narratives”. She accused the party of habitual dishonesty, saying denial had become ingrained in its political conduct. Rejecting claims that the violence was a “false flag operation”, the minister said those who stormed Jinnah House and engaged in vandalism were not ordinary protesters but PTI office-bearers and ticket holders. She recalled that even the party’s founder had publicly stated he would apologise if conclusive evidence emerged, yet no remorse or acceptance had followed despite repeated disclosures. Bokhari said the PFSL — regarded as one of Asia’s most credible forensic institutions — had completed a comprehensive forensic analysis of the Peshawar incidents. The report, dispatched on December 23 and seen by Dawn, was supported by video footage and photographic evidence documenting the torching of Radio Pakistan, attacks on multiple toll plazas and the burning of ambulances. She said the findings constituted serious criminal offences and were fully admissible in courts of law. “Those involved in rioting, vandalism and damage to state property will be held accountable,” she asserted. Concluding her statement, Bokhari said the politics of “abuse, intimidation and blackmailing the state through lies” would no longer be tolerated, adding that the law would take its course.

Sindh adjusts school timings due to cold weather KARACHI

staff report

The Sindh government has revised school timings across the province in response to the ongoing cold spell. As per a notification from the Sindh Education Department, all public and private schools will now open at 9:00 am, while the closing time will remain unchanged. This new schedule will take effect starting Monday and will continue until January 26. The decision aims to shield students from the extreme morning temperatures that have been affecting various parts of the province. In contrast, the Punjab government has opted for a more extended measure, announcing an extension of winter vacations for schools due to the severe cold. The extended break in Punjab is aimed at ensuring the health and safety of students during these harsh weather conditions.

Dar reaffirms Pakistan’s principled position on Palestine JEDDAH

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Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met the Secretary General of OIC, Hissein Brahim Taha, on the sidelines of Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Jeddah. He highlighted Pakistan’s strong condemnation of Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and its unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Somalia. Categorically rejecting any proposal for dislocation of Palestinians, Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled position on Palestine.He urged the OIC Secretary General to step up his efforts for realization of the right to selfdetermination of Kashmiri people.

72 Pakistani students return from Iran as protests rage ISLAMABAD

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At least 72 Pakistani students have returned home from Iran amid escalating protests across the country, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Muhammad Mudassir Tipu confirmed on Sunday, as Islamabad advised its nationals to exercise extreme caution and avoid non-essential travel until the situation stabilises.

Talking to a TV channel, Ambassador Tipu said that 72 Pakistani students enrolled at the University of Hormozgan in Bandar Abbas departed for Pakistan earlier in the day. He said the Pakistan Embassy in Tehran had extended all possible assistance to facilitate their safe return and remained in close coordination with Iranian border authorities to ensure a smooth process. The ambassador added that Pakistani

students studying at Zanjan University were also expected to return home soon. Urging compliance with official guidance, he advised all Pakistani citizens in Iran to strictly follow the advisory issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to complete all required formalities before departure. Tipu noted that internet services, including Wi-Fi, were down in parts of Iran, while telephone connectivity was also disrupted. He advised Pakistani na-

tionals to remain in contact with the embassy through landline numbers and to plan road travel carefully by reaching border points at least four hours before closing time, ensuring their passports were properly stamped. In a message posted on X, the ambassador further cautioned that all Pakistanis travelling from Iran must ensure they possess a valid visa or an exit stamp (Kharooj) on their passports.

Trump delivers oil warning, suggesting Cuba should strike deal with US WASHINTON

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the United States. “THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA — ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE,” Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social on Sunday. “Cuba lived, for many years, on large amounts of OIL and MONEY from Venezuela,” Trump said. US intelligence has painted a grim picture of Cuba’s economic and political situation, but its assessments offer no clear support for Trump’s prediction that the is-

land is “ready to fall,” Reuters reported on Saturday, citing three people familiar with the confidential assessments. The CIA’s view is that key sectors of the Cuban economy, such as agriculture and tourism, are severely strained by frequent blackouts, trade sanctions and other problems. The potential loss of oil imports and other support from Venezuela, for decades a key ally, could make governing more difficult for the administration that has ruled Cuba since Fidel Castro led a revolution in 1959. For Cuba, the loss of Venezuelan oil is

devastating. Between January and November of last year, Venezuela sent an average of 27,000 barrels per day (bpd) to the island, covering roughly 50% of Cuba’s oil deficit, according to shipping data and documents from Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA. Separately, Trump reposted a social media message suggesting that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, born to Cuban immigrant parents, would become the next leader of Cuba. Trump republished a Truth Social message from user Cliff Smith, posted on Janu-

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ary 8, that read “Marco Rubio will be president of Cuba,” accompanied by a crying laughing emoji. Trump’s comment on the repost was “Sounds good to me!” The largely unknown user, whose bio refers to him as a “conservative Californian” has less than 500 followers. Trump’s repost comes a week after US forces seized Venezuela’s authoritarian leader Nicolas Maduro in a nighttime operation in Caracas that killed dozens of Venezuelan and Cuban security forces.