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In Focus
14 people killed in police checkpoint attack in Dera Ismail Khan
35 people injured; PM Shehbaz and President Zardari condemn attack amid rise in militant violence in KP
On 27 September, Dawn reported that a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a joint police, Customs and Excise checkpoint in Darazinda, Dera Ismail Khan, killing at least 14 people - including two rescue team personnel - and injuring 35 others. The dead included nine men, two women, a minor and a Customs official, while no police or security personnel were among those killed. The blast destroyed much of the checkpoint and an adjacent house, prompting rescue and security operations.
The attack was followed by further violence against emergency responders. Two Rescue 1122 workers were killed and another seriously injured when armed assailants opened fire on an ambulance transporting bodies recovered from the blast site. A police Quick Response Force vehicle heading towards the checkpoint was also targeted, injuring one policeman. Authorities cordoned off the area and launched investigations, while bomb disposal teams examined the scene.
The attack comes amid a recent rise in militant violence in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Mainland KP recorded 54 terrorist attacks in August, up 50 per cent from July, according to PICSS data. The incident follows the 18 September Kohat Police Lines attack, which killed 23 people and injured around 100 others. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the D.I. Khan bombing and vowed to intensify efforts against terrorism. (“D.I. Khan suicide blast leaves 14 martyred,” Dawn, 27 September 2026; “13 martyred in DI Khan checkpoint suicide blast,” The Express Tribune, 27 September 2026)
Navy’s Hangor-class submarine conducts first live missile firing
Maiden exercise highlights expanding Pakistan-China defence cooperation and submarine capabilities
On 28 September, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan Navy’s newly inducted PNS/M HANGOR successfully conducted its maiden live weapon firing in the North Arabian Sea, accurately striking a designated long-range target with an anti-ship cruise missile. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) described the exercise as a “major demonstration of operational readiness”. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf witnessed the firing and praised the submarine’s combat power, highlighting the strategic importance of strengthening subsurface capabilities for “credible maritime deterrence”. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also praised the Navy’s operational readiness.
The Hangor-class submarine, equipped with advanced combat systems, modern sensors, air-independent propulsion and enhanced stealth features, is part of an eight-submarine programme developed through Pakistan-China defence cooperation. ISPR said the milestone underscored the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a “modern, combat-ready force” to safeguard Pakistan’s maritime frontiers and regional peace. The firing follows recent naval weapons tests, including the indigenously developed Taimoor anti-ship weapon and an anti-ship ballistic missile. The Navy also recently seized more than 2,800 kilograms of narcotics worth approximately USD 750 million during a counter-narcotics operation in the Arabian Sea. (“Newly inducted Hangor-class submarine conducts maiden live weapon firing in Arabian Sea: ISPR,” Dawn, 27 September 2026; “New PN sub conducts maiden missile firing,” The Express Tribune, 28 September 2026)
In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
“End the practice” of protesting in Islamabad, PM’s advisor of Political Affairs says
On 26 September, Dawn reported that Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah argued that everyone has constitutional and legal rights to protest, but Islamabad should remain off-limits for demonstrations. Speaking on Geo News, Sanaullah stated those wishing to protest could do so in Faisalabad, Hyderabad, Karachi, Peshawar or Multan. The Prime Minister's aide stressed that a message had been sent prohibiting protests within the federal capital, citing the presence of foreign diplomats and concerns about sending adverse messages internationally. Sanaullah pointed out that the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024 imposed bans on gatherings in Islamabad without prior permission. He highlighted that the PTI, which postponed its march to 4 October, had not submitted any application to authorities seeking permission for a gathering. He cautioned that PTI should not attempt to breach law enforcement lines to gain access to D-Chowk, warning that authorities had legal backing to respond to any force used. ("Protest everyone's right but minus Islamabad': Sanaullah says 'practice' of marches to capital should end," Dawn, 26 September 2026)
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s trade deficit with Gulf countries widens
On 27 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s trade deficit with Gulf partner countries widened by 2.61 per cent to USD 3.450 billion in the first two months of the fiscal year 2026-27. According to State Bank of Pakistan data, imports from Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia rose by 41.9 per cent, 27.6 per cent, 39.4 per cent, and 14.7 per cent, respectively. In the first two months of FY27, imports declined only from the UAE and Oman. In contrast, export proceeds posted moderate growth, driven by gains in Jordan, the UAE and Oman. Declines were observed in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, reflecting regional instability. Since 28 Feb, the West Asia conflict has disrupted Pakistan’s trade. Exports to most Gulf states are shrinking, while imports from the region are surging, deepening Pakistan’s external vulnerability and dependence on Gulf energy and raw materials. (“Trade gap with Gulf widens,” Dawn, 27 September 2026)
Petroleum prices in Pakistan reach highest level in South Asian region
On 27 September, Dawn reported that according to a Topline Securities report, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September is expected to rise 10.25-10.75 per cent year-on-year, down from 11.1 per cent in August. Pakistan’s official headline inflation rose sharply to 11.1 per cent year-on-year in August 2026, up from 9.2 per cent in July 2026. Petroleum prices have been rising daily in Pakistan and have now reached the highest level in the region. India increased petrol prices by 10 per cent, while Bangladesh reportedly jacked them up by 16 per cent and Pakistan by over 50 per cent. At the same time, Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia are preparing to respond to a possible new conflict involving the Houthis and the kingdom, adding to uncertainty over oil prices and supplies. Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, currently exceeding USD 21.4 billion, may provide some cushion against higher oil import costs. However, they cannot prevent inflationary pressures from rising if the conflict continues and international energy prices remain elevated. (“Inflation seen slowing to 10.75pc in September,” Dawn, 27 September 2026)
Finance Minister’s adviser clarifies government’s role in acquisition of PIA aircraft
On 27 September, Dawn reported that the Adviser to the Finance Minister, Khurram Schehzad, clarified the government's role regarding the potential acquisition of the aircraft. He said that the government was not buying any aircraft for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), which was privatised through an auction in December last year. The claims came after a recent meeting between the Finance Minister and Chair of the US Export-Import (Exim) Bank on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The advisor to the Finance Minister clarified that US Exim’s mandate, like export credit agencies elsewhere, is to support its country’s exports and jobs. Boeing aircraft are US exports. US Exim provides financing support to foreign purchasers of US-manufactured aircraft, including airlines, through established financing structures. He added that the Finance Minister's discussions with the US Exim were not even confined to PIA. It covered potential financing across aviation, refinery upgrades and Reko Diq as part of a much broader Pakistan-US economic engagement. (“No govt financing sovereign guaranteed loans for new PIA aircraft: adviser to finmin,” Dawn, 27 September 2026)
EXTERNAL
Makkah alliance military chiefs vow to translate commitments into effective cooperation
On 26 September, Dawn reported that military chiefs of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye vowed to immediately translate commitments under the Makkah Defence Alliance into effective military cooperation. The three defence leaders met in Riyadh to discuss advancing co-operation, enhanced intelligence sharing and military coordination. Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir represented Islamabad alongside Saudi and Turkish military counterparts. The participants reviewed the security situation facing Riyadh amid heightened concerns regarding Houthi attacks on the kingdom and maritime blockade threats. They strongly resented attacks targeting the holy city of Makkah and civilian infrastructure. Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman welcomed the meeting outcomes, affirming continued joint efforts to confront attacks in accordance with the defence pact, which Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye signed in August. ("Makkah alliance military chiefs vow to 'immediately' translate commitments into effective military cooperation," Dawn, 26 September 2026)
Foreign Minister expresses concerns over regional and Middle East security at ECO meeting
On 26 September, Dawn reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar voiced deep concern over prevailing security situations in the region and Middle East whilst addressing the 27th informal meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organisation Council of Ministers in New York. Dar stressed that Islamabad remained firmly committed to peaceful, negotiated resolutions of disputes through international law. He called for stronger political commitment and institutional reforms to respond effectively to regional challenges whilst harnessing collective strength to promote peace and prosperity for nearly half a billion ECO member populations. Dar highlighted climate change as a serious threat to water and food security whilst noting emerging connectivity corridors offered economic potential for linking Central and South Asia. As chair of the ECO Council for 2026-27, Pakistan would focus on trade and economic integration, connectivity, trade facilitation and climate resilience. ("At ECO meeting, Dar voices concern over regional, Middle East security situation," Dawn, 26 September 2026)
SCO national coordinators convene in Islamabad to discuss Pakistan's chairmanship agenda
On 27 September, Dawn reported that national coordinators of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation would meet in Islamabad from 28 to 30 September to discuss the programme of activities under Pakistan's chairmanship. The Foreign Office said the first meeting of the SCO Council of National Coordinators would be convened under Islamabad's chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of State for 2026-27. Delegates would discuss a wide range of issues relating to SCO cooperation and coordination, including the programme of activities, preparations for upcoming meetings and events. Pakistan assumed the chairmanship during an annual summit in Kyrgyzstan in September, with the SCO Council of Heads of State scheduled to be hosted by Islamabad in August 2027. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed prioritising key sectors including IT and artificial intelligence, energy development, poverty reduction, disaster management, health, culture and sports. ("SCO meeting in Islamabad from Sept 28-30 to discuss activities under Pakistan's chairmanship," Dawn, 27 September 2026)
SECURITY
KP: Militancy and security operations in Bannu cause families to relocate
On 26 September, Dawn reported that residents of mountainous and semi-tribal Hathikhel in Bannu reported growing militant activity, extortion and repeated security operations, which they said had forced several families to relocate. Local sources reportedly added that militants demanded cash, including up to PKR 100,000 from families that had left, and also sought shares of agricultural produce. Houses of families that allegedly failed to meet the demands were reportedly demolished. Moreover, residents said violence and security operations had disrupted employment, education and local businesses. In response, residents reportedly formed a peace committee, maintaining contact with police and security agencies and resisting militants. This is against the backdrop of, a civilian and a woman were killed in an exchange of fire in Ping on 15 September, and Hathikhel tribesmen held a jirga over militant activity, after which a man and his son were injured in an alleged drone attack on a house in Kharsind. (“‘Rising militancy’ drives relocation of families in Bannu’s semi-tribal areas,” Dawn, 26 September 2026)
Pakistan Navy seizes over 2,800 kilograms of narcotics in Arabian Sea operation
On 26 September, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Navy stated that its ships PNS Hunain and PNS Yarmook intercepted a suspicious boat during patrols in the Arabian Sea as part of maritime security operations. Following a boarding operation, more than 2,800 kilogrammes of narcotics were reportedly recovered from concealed compartments on the vessel. The navy valued the seized narcotics at approximately USD 750 million. The navy’s Director General Public Relations said the operation reflected “sustained surveillance, vigilance, and unwavering commitment to regional maritime security, global peace, and the fight against illicit trafficking at sea”. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf subsequently commended the officers and crew for their “professionalism, vigilance and dedication.” This follows an operation in June in which the navy reportedly recovered around two tonnes of drugs near Gwadar, including 1,500 kilogrammes of hashish and 500 kilogrammes of ‘ice’, estimated at USD 215 million. (“Pakistan Navy seizes $750m worth of narcotics in Arabian Sea during joint operation,” Dawn, 26 September 2026)
KP: 13 people allegedly taken hostage in Hathikhel
On 27 September, Dawn reported that 13 people were allegedly taken hostage in Bannu’s mountainous Hathikhel area as they attempted to move to a safer location amid ongoing tensions between a local peace committee, police and militants, according to local sources. Police sources confirmed the incident to Dawn, while they have not issued an official statement. A photograph reportedly showing the alleged hostages circulated on social media and appeared to include Nasir alias Gidarh, described as a local commander of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan; however, the photograph was not independently verified. Local sources said militants were allegedly seeking to prevent residents from leaving and had imposed restrictions on families attempting to relocate, adding that some families who failed to comply with these conditions had their houses demolished. (“Terrorists take 13 people hostage in Bannu,” Dawn, 27 September 2026)
Balochistan: Over 71 terrorists killed in security operations, says ISPR
On 27 September, Dawn reported that more than 71 terrorists were killed in Balochistan during security operations, according to the military’s media affairs wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The operations reportedly began on September 21 in Ziarat and surrounding areas based on intelligence. In Shaban, District Quetta, security forces allegedly identified and cleared multiple hideouts, killing 33 terrorists during exchanges of fire, and also recovering weapons, ammunition and explosives. The operation was over the following 72 hours and resulted in a further 23 deaths. Separately, 11 terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation in Noshki on 25 September, while six Fitna al Hindustan militants were killed in Mand. ISPR said the operations had cleared a “vast area” and relieved local communities of the threat. President Asif Ali Zardari called the clearance of terrorist hideouts a major success, saying operations would continue against terrorism “fueled by foreign patronage and assistance”. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also commended the security forces, with Naqvi saying “nefarious designs” had been thwarted. (“More than 70 terrorists killed across Balochistan in past 4 days: ISPR,” Dawn, 27 September 2026)
ENVIRONMENT
Number of unfrozen lakes reaches 105 in less than two months
On 27 September, Dawn reported that according to SUPARCO data, the number of unfrozen lakes in Pakistan grew from 40 to 105 in less than two months. A total of 131potentially dangerous glacial lakes (PDGLs) were identified in the August assessment, with their locations provided by the Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), including the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa PDMA, Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), and WAPDA’s Glacier Monitoring and Research Centre (GMRC).On 2 July, Suparco had observed 40 unfrozen lakes, indicating accelerated seasonal melting. However, the assessment also indicated at the time that most unfrozen lakes remained within their previously recorded maximum extents. Given the ongoing rise in temperatures and the increasing number of unfrozen lakes, all relevant authorities had been advised to maintain a high level of preparedness, particularly in downstream valleys of potentially dangerous glacial lakes. (“Number of unfrozen lakes in Pakistan grows by 65 in less than 2 months: SUPARCO,” Dawn, 27 September 2026)
AF-PAK
28 fighters “recruited” by Pakistan killed in strikes, says Taliban’s Defence Ministry; Islamabad rejects claim
On 28 September, Al Jazeera, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence claimed its forces killed 28 fighters in Nuristan who had crossed from Pakistan, alleging they included former Afghan security personnel and ISIL fighters supported by Pakistan. Islamabad rejected the allegations as “frivolous” and “baseless”, denying any involvement by its security forces or intelligence agencies in recruiting, training or supporting armed groups in Afghanistan. Pakistan instead urged the Taliban to take verifiable action against terrorist organisations operating from Afghan territory.
The dispute comes amid a sharp deterioration in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations following Pakistani airstrikes on 10 locations in Afghanistan and the reported downing of Afghan drones that entered Pakistani airspace. Pakistan has repeatedly accused Kabul of sheltering militants responsible for attacks in Pakistan, while the Taliban denies the allegations. A recent diplomatic effort involving Türkiye and Qatar has also struggled to ease tensions, with Pakistani officials warning that relations could deteriorate further amid continuing border clashes and competing accusations of support for armed groups. (“Afghanistan says 28 fighters killed as Islamabad, Kabul trade accusations,” Al Jazeera, 27 September 2026; “Info ministry rejects Afghan Taliban's 'frivolous' claims linking Pakistan to reported Nuristan violence,” Dawn, 27 September 2026; “Prospects for Pak-Afghan ties reset appear bleak,” The Express Tribune, 28 September 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Terrorism
Editorial, “And now DI Khan,” The Express Tribune, 28 September 2026
"The terror nexus is currently focusing on three distinct targets: security personnel, police and civilians. By attacking these groups, disgruntled elements intend to bleed Pakistan while trying to project a narrative of state failure. This systematic pattern proves the violence is not driven by local grievances, but is rather a foreign plot to weaken the country. It's no secret that there are troublesome districts that harbour active sleeper cells linked with local abettors and opportunists. This warrants a foolproof domestic counter-terrorism strategy combined with tactful diplomacy to expose their international patrons."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631730/and-now-di-khan
Politics & governance
Editorial, “Time to pursue a thaw,” The Express Tribune, 27 September 2026
“The PTI's decision to delay its long march is a welcome development that could help defuse the prevailing political instability. It hands the government a prime opportunity to initiate talks with the broader opposition alliance, TTAP, and resolve lingering friction points. Even though the PTI aims to launch the protest from Peshawar on October 4, sincerity from both sides can still yield a compromise. A meaningful political thaw is urgently needed to restore daily life in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, where heavy security blockades have severely disrupted the twin cities."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2631558/time-to-pursue-a-thaw
Muhammad Amir Rana, “A broken power accord,” Dawn, 27 September 2026
“Although the PTI has postponed its protest march on Islamabad, the capital city’s container-blocked roads continue to reflect the country’s deeper crisis. The crisis is not merely political, economic, or security-related; it is rooted in an elite class that cannot forge an accord within themselves."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2630637/online-predators
Provinces
Editorial, “Balochistan’s reality,” Dawn, 27 September 2026
“If the state is to bring peace to Balochistan, then its representatives must face the ground realities. However, holders of high office at times almost trivialise the province’s problems. For example, at an event in Quetta recently, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said there was no insurgency in the province, but that some elements were promoting separatist ideas. He added that it was incorrect to attribute unrest in Balochistan to lack of development. Mr Bugti asked the youth to distinguish between “facts and perceptions”. Not long after his remarks, the military said it had killed at least 33 terrorists over the past few days in the province."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2032957/balochistans-reality
Editorial, “Expanding surveillance,” Dawn, 28 September 2026
“Punjab's decision to extend its digital surveillance network should be appreciated. However, the question is what the government does with the vast amount of data it is collecting. The expansion to 98 tehsils will take the network well beyond its existing urban footprint. The present network uses systems such as automatic vehicle registration-plate recognition, facial recognition, video analytics and crime-pattern analysis. The potential benefits are considerable. Properly integrated surveillance can improve police response, help identify suspects and stolen vehicles, provide digital evidence, map crime patterns and allow scarce policing resources to be deployed effectively. It can also improve traffic management and response to women’s safety and crime reporting. But cameras alone do not make cities safer."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2033193/expanding-surveillance
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