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In Brief
EXTERNAL
Foreign Office rules out military action under Makkah pact despite Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia
On 11 September, The Express Tribune reported that the Foreign Office (FO) moved to dampen speculation about activating the Makkah Defence Alliance despite the escalating Saudi-Houthi conflict, with spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan saying Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia were still focused on consolidating the alliance and building out its operating mechanisms before any activation, and that the pact was "purely for defensive purposes"; he called the possibility of Pakistani military action against Houthi positions "hypothetical," a more cautious line than Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's earlier suggestion the pact could be triggered if the conflict spilled over into Saudi Arabia. Khan also ruled out any near-term expansion of the alliance to countries like Egypt or Algeria, said Pakistan already runs bilateral defence cooperation with Riyadh independent of the pact, and reiterated that Afghanistan "is not an enemy state," with terrorism from Afghan soil remaining the only obstacle to normalising ties. ("Pakistan plays down Yemen war role," The Express Tribune, 11 September 2026)
Foreign Minister and Turkish counterpart stress continued R4 coordination with Saudi Arabia and Egypt
On 11 September, The Express Tribune reported that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking by phone, emphasised the importance of maintaining close consultations on regional matters through the Regional Four framework alongside Saudi Arabia and Egypt, reviewing bilateral relations and regional developments of mutual interest. ("Dar, Turkish FM discuss regional security," The Express Tribune, 11 September 2026)
President Zardari sends rare public greeting to North Korea's Kim on founding anniversary
On 10 September, Dawn reported that President Asif Ali Zardari and the Foreign Office (FO) extended unusual public greetings to Pyongyang marking North Korea's 78th founding anniversary, with Zardari's letter to Kim Jong Un citing the two countries' "cordial relations based on mutual trust and goodwill" and hoping ties would keep growing; the Foreign Office downplayed any special significance, calling such exchanges "a common practice," even as Pakistan's own embassy in Pyongyang remains closed and its relationship with North Korea has stayed low-key for two decades under UN sanctions that Islamabad continues to enforce, including trade restrictions and a suspension of Air Koryo flights. ("Islamabad extends rare greeting to Pyongyang," Dawn, 10 September 2026)
ECONOMY
IMF mission to visit Pakistan in September to review economic performance
On 10 September, Dawn reported that an International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission is due to visit Pakistan on 23 September for a biannual review of the country’s economic performance and implementation of the USD 7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the USD 1.4bn Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) for the period ending 30 June, 2026. Pakistan is currently under a USD 7 billion, 37-month IMF programme, aimed at stabilising the economy through fiscal discipline, structural reforms, and measures to support long-term growth. The IMF staff mission, led by Iva Petrova, would conduct the fourth review of the EFF and the third review of the RSF. The mission would begin its visit with technical discussions at the State Bank of Pakistan, followed by meetings with the government’s sectoral teams, alongside a customary inaugural meeting with the Finance Minister. This would also be the first review after the provincial governments surrendered more than PKR 1.035 trillion of their National Finance Commission (NFC) shares to the Centre during the current fiscal year for national security and water resources, on top of the PKR 1.8 trillion cash surplus separately committed under IMF pressure. (“IMF mission due on Sept 2 for biannual review of Pakistan’s economic performance,” Dawn, 10 September 2026)
Senate panel discusses matters related to tax refunds, sales tax
On 11 September, The News International reported that the Senate Panel on Finance and Revenue met at the Parliament House to consider matters relating to tax refunds, sales tax on unsold jewellery returned under the Self-Consignment Scheme, honorarium for medical staff deployed during the budget session, and other financial and banking issues. The Senate Panel was informed that the FBR could not withhold refunds exceeding PKR 390 billion under an IMF condition, and the amount was therefore cleared within the stipulated timeframe. The Senate panel was informed that the matter regarding payment of an honorarium equivalent to five months’ basic pay to medical staff performing duties during the budget session in Parliament House had been resolved. The Senate panel was briefed on the request of the Jewellers & Gems Traders Association of Pakistan for the removal of sales tax on unsold jewellery returned under the Self-Consignment Export Scheme. FBR officials informed the Senate panel that under the Entrustment Scheme, the import of unsold jewellery was exempt from sales tax after completion of the required customs documentation. Representatives of the Jewellers & Gems Traders Association of Pakistan pointed out that while exports were exempt from taxes, an 18 per cent sales tax was imposed when unsold gold and jewellery were returned under the self-consignment scheme, creating an additional burden on exporters. They also highlighted issues relating to the treatment of gold and gemstones under SRO 760(I)/2013. In view of the SRO, the panel chairman said the Ministry of Commerce would be invited to the next meeting to discuss the matter and resolve it amicably. (“FBR cannot withhold refunds exceeding Rs390bn,” The News International, 11 September 2026)
227,757 cyber fraud cases recorded by Pakistan in last three years
On 11 September, The Express Tribune reported that the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has received a large number of complaints as cyber fraud continues to target citizens across the country. A total of 227,757 people in Pakistan reported being victims of cyber fraud during the three years. Cyber fraud during these three years. Of these, 83,080 people lodged complaints in 2024, followed by 76,646 in 2025 and 68,031 in the subsequent year. Collectively, victims in these 227,000-plus cases lost PKR 8.32 billion to cyber fraudsters, according to the documents. The victims also include eight parliamentarians, both serving and former lawmakers. NCCIA sources said most of the fraud cases involved WhatsApp hacking or calls made by fraudsters posing as representatives of banks or other institutions. (“Pakistanis lose Rs 832bn to cyber fraud,” The Express Tribune, 11 September 2026)
Government plans to formulate a new National Occupational Safety and Health policy
On 10 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan has stepped up efforts to formulate a new National Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) policy. The policy seeks to make safe and healthy workplaces a reality for workers across the country’s formal and informal economy. The proposed policy also seeks to extend protection to workers across a wide range of sectors, including women, young and older workers, persons with disabilities, migrants, home-based and domestic workers, agricultural labourers and those engaged through digital platforms. The move comes as occupational safety and health gains greater international significance. In 2022, the International Labour Conference recognised a safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and right at work. ILO Conventions 155 and 187 provide the international framework for national policies on workplace safety, prevention and continuous improvement. (“Pakistan to formulate new national occupational safety, health policy,” Dawn, 10 September 2026)
Senate raises concerns over poor quality of mobile and internet services
On 10 September, Dawn reported that the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication expressed serious concern over the poor quality of mobile and internet services and decided to summon telecom companies (telcos) to seek direct answers over persistent network problems. The committee was also informed by an official of the Engineering Development Board (EDB) that efforts were underway to seek tech giant Apple’s entry into Pakistan’s manufacturing market. Committee members stressed that the root causes of poor mobile service were not being addressed and criticised the PTA for repeatedly giving the same response without improving the situation. The committee made it clear that the PTA should perform its duties and inform the parliament if there was any obstacle preventing it from taking action. PTA officials further said that telcos often obtained stay orders from courts against penalties, and that several cases were pending before the courts. The committee decided to summon telcos at its next meeting and directed the PTA to provide details of fines imposed on them and the amount recovered. (“NA panel irked over poor mobile services, seeks efforts to bring apple to Pakistan,” Dawn, 10 September 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
PTI accuses PPP government of obstructing KP CM's Sindh political engagement
On 10 September, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) accused the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)-led Sindh government of using state machinery to impede its political activities during Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi's five-day visit to the province. PTI-Sindh President Haleem Adil Sheikh alleged that Karachi was "sealed" on 06 September and claimed over 250 PTI workers were arrested and mistreated. Sheikh described Afridi's reception from the Sindh border to Karachi as showing growing party support and demand for the release of imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan. Large crowds assembled in Nawabshah, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas and Hyderabad. Sheikh criticised the Sindh government over economic and social conditions, citing higher petrol and diesel prices and alleged payments to independent power producers (IPPs) totalling 2.935 trillion rupees over 11 months. He expressed concern over reported child deaths in Tharparkar. ("PTI lashes out at PPP govt for 'obstructing' CM Afridi's Sindh visit," Dawn, 10 September 2026)
PM Shehbaz invites opposition leader for consultations on new Chief Election Commissioner
On 10 September, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif invited National Assembly (NA) Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai for mandatory consultations on appointing a new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), days before the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) long march scheduled for 27 September. However, the opposition leader had not responded to the invitation. The invitation represents a practical step towards initiating government-opposition dialogue. National Assembly (NA) Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq previously stressed the need for political harmony and said the PM should invite the opposition leader to CEC consultations. The incumbent CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja's five-year term expired on 26 January 2025, though he has remained controversial since the PTI government's 2022 ouster. Article 213 of the Constitution mandates the Prime Minister consult the Opposition Leader regarding three names for CEC appointment, forwarded to a Parliamentary Committee (PC) for confirmation. ("PM Shehbaz invites NA opposition leader Achakzai for consultation on new CEC," Dawn, 10 September 2026)
Parliamentary Affairs Minister announces October parliament sessions for new provinces debate
On 10 September, Dawn reported that Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry announced parliament would debate the contentious issue of creating new provinces next month. With no National Assembly (NA) session scheduled for September, sessions of both chambers are expected in October. Chaudhry reaffirmed that parliament remained the "proper forum" for debating new province formation, emphasising that discussions would involve all political parties given the National Assembly's (NA) representation from all four provinces and the Senate's equal provincial representation. Chaudhry expressed hope for "healthy discussion" during the upcoming session and noted that parliament could address any topic. He clarified that discussions on new provinces or federating units were not about "inheriting fortunes" and cautioned political parties against emotional approaches. Chaudhry revealed a draft governance model for Islamabad had been prepared by a five-member committee appointed by the Prime Minister (PM), maintaining Islamabad's federal status whilst establishing its first legislative assembly. ("Parliament to debate new provinces next month, says minister," Dawn, 10 September 2026)
SECURITY
Peshawar: Five ISKP terrorists killed in CTD operation
On 10 September, The Express Tribune reported that Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel killed five Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) militants during an intelligence-based operation near Shamshatoo Camp on the outskirts of Peshawar. The CTD said the militants were allegedly planning attacks targeting sensitive installations, Imambargahs and churches. Security forces recovered an SMG, four pistols, two hand grenades, an IED and ammunition from the compound. The CTD identified three of the slain militants as highly wanted terrorists allegedly involved in bombings, target killings and other attacks across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Islamabad. One militant, Imran alias Abdullah, was accused of masterminding the February 2026 Tarlai Imambargah suicide attack that killed 32 people and injured around 169 others. (“Mastermind of Islamabad imambargah attack, four ISKP terrorists killed in Peshawar IBO,” The Express Tribune, 10 September 2026)
Balochistan: Bridge on Quetta-Karachi highway bombed
On 11 September, The Express Tribune reported that unidentified individuals blew up a bridge on the Quetta-Karachi National Highway in Kalat’s Marjan area, injuring several passengers as a coach was crossing the structure. The blast damaged the bridge and disrupted traffic, with vehicles diverted through an alternative route. In a separate incident in Mastung’s Kank area, armed men attacked a police post, killing Constable Izzatullah and injuring Constable Naseebullah. Police returned fire, forcing the attackers to flee, while security forces cordoned off the area and launched investigations into both incidents. (“Bridge on Quetta-Karachi highway blown up," The Express Tribune, 11 September 2026)
PROVINCES
Sindh: Assembly to examine changes to local government law
On 10 September, Dawn reported that the Sindh Assembly constituted an 11-member special committee to examine the Sindh Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which proposes major changes to the 2013 local government law. The bill would allow outgoing mayors and chairmen to continue exercising their powers as administrators until newly elected heads assume office. It also requires the government to seek fresh local elections within 120 days of a council’s term expiring and proposes reconciliation forums in local councils to settle disputes. The bill further assigns union councils responsibilities for identifying waste-management problems and unauthorised construction. The committee, dominated by ruling PPP members, has been given one week to submit its report. (“Sindh Assembly forms 11-member body to examine amendments to local govt law,” Dawn, 10 September 2026)
AF-PAK
Foreign Office clarifies valid Afghan medical students allowed to remain
On 11 September, The Express Tribune reported that the Foreign Office (FO) rejected reports claiming Pakistan had decided to expel all Afghan students, clarifying that those enrolled in valid degree programmes holding valid visas would be permitted to remain and complete their education. Afghan nationals without valid visas or those not enrolled in recognised degree programmes would require repatriation. The Foreign Office (FO) stated that students neither registered at universities nor holding valid visas fell into this category. The clarification addressed concerns following reports that some medical students holding valid visas faced removal orders. The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) identified over 200 Afghan medical students studying in Pakistan, though only 22 were presently registered with the PMDC (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council). Fourteen had completed degrees whilst eight were expected to graduate next year. The PMDC's verification process concerning the remaining 176 students remained ongoing. Simultaneously, 13 Afghan medical students (seven women, six men) challenged PMDC (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council) directives in Lahore High Court (LHC), arguing the council lacked lawful authority to expel students who had invested years in medical education. ("Afghan medical students in limbo," The Express Tribune, 11 September 2026)
Lahore High Court petitioned by Afghan medical students challenging expulsion directives
On 10 September, Dawn reported that 13 Afghan medical students filed multiple petitions before Lahore High Court (LHC) challenging Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) directives ordering their return to Afghanistan. The petitioners, seven women and six men, were enrolled at institutions including King Edward Medical University (KEMU), Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Medical & Dental College and Services Institute of Medical Sciences. Advocate Asad Jamal represented the petitioners, arguing PMDC (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council) and medical colleges lacked legal authority to expel students. The petitioners contended that PMDC's (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council) powers must be exercised within constitutional bounds and Pakistan's international legal obligations, noting that neither the 2023 Act nor constitutional or international law permitted arbitrary action against students who had invested years in medical education. Many petitioners held Higher Education Commission (HEC)-sponsored Allama Iqbal Scholarship programme scholarships. Petitioner Nilofar Nikzad stated she had completed two years of medical studies in Afghanistan before abandoning education due to Taliban restrictions on women's access to education. Petitions challenged PMDC (Pakistan Medical and Dental Council) directives issued on 31 July and 01 September, requesting their declaration as "illegal and unconstitutional", claiming discrimination against women and Afghan students. ("LHC moved against PMDC's directives for repatriation of Afghan students," Dawn, 10 September 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Economy
Shahid Kardar, “Bank domination,” Dawn, 11 September 2026
"Pakistan's financial system is heavily bank-centric. Commercial banks account for over 80 per cent of total financial-sector assets. In a mature financial system, household and corporate savings flow through multiple competing channels — capital markets, pension funds, insurance companies, asset managers and private equity. But in Pakistan, many of the institutions that should compete with banks are themselves economically and financially connected to them. What appears to be institutional diversity is, to a large extent, concentration masquerading as diversification."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2029055/bank-domination
Editorial, “Housing finance,” Dawn, 11 September 2026
“The property survey ordered by the prime minister to identify plots eligible for mortgage under the Apna Ghar Scheme addresses only a small part of the housing finance problem. Banks have approved 53,127 — worth Rs313.42bn — of the 147,504 applications received. But they have disbursed only Rs45.43bn to 8,739 borrowers. Barely 16pc of the approved borrowers have received the money, and disbursements amount to around 14pc of the approved value. The gap between approval and disbursement deserves greater official scrutiny. The survey may widen the pool of eligible collateral, but it cannot by itself persuade banks to assume more credit risk at the expense of the shareholders. Commercial banks, apart from state-owned banks, remain wary of lending against property, because recovering loans after default is a laborious process."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2029049/housing-finance
On Afghanistan
Editorial, “A warning to Taliban,” The Express Tribune, 10 September 2026
“The Human Rights Watch has come up with a stern warning for the Taliban regarding its systematic human rights abuses. In a synopsis on discrimination against women and children in particular, the HRW warned against granting diplomatic recognition to the regime in Kabul and blamed it for "institutionalizing a system of discrimination, repression and ideological control" over its hapless subjects. The rights watchdog also called upon the international community to censure the regime unless it matches its words with actions by ensuring an inclusive government."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628401/a-warning-to-taliban
US-Iran War
Inam Ul Haque, “The impact of Iran's military operations on the US,” The Express Tribune, 10 September 2026
“Over the last few weeks, we discussed the US carrier-based military assets in three fleets, comprising 11 aircraft carriers and their inordinate deployment to the Middle East, leaving other theatres of likely conflict, unprotected and uncovered. We discussed American military bases (more than 750 in around 80 countries) under three commands, to protect shipping, project power and support alliances like NATO, etc. We also discussed the losses caused by Iran to America's Middle Eastern infrastructure in some eight countries, causing some 13 billion dollars in damages. We continue the debate by discussing the implications of Iran's military operations against the US."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628405/the-impact-of-irans-military-operations-on-the-us
Provinces
Editorial, “Dengue - rising thirtyfold,” The Express Tribune, 11 September 2026
“In the wake of a recent study conducted by the Aga Khan University, another entirely preventable public health crisis has joined the ranks of similar preventable diseases taking over Pakistan. According to the report, there has been a staggering 3,000 per cent increase in dengue cases across the country in a single decade - surging from approximately 100,000 in 2012 to an estimated 3.28 million by 2022."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2628598/dengue-rising-thirtyfold
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