|
In Focus
Somali pirates kill three Pakistani nationals during tanker rescue operation
Five crew members killed by pirates; Puntland forces recover oil tanker five months after hijacking
On 29 September, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Somali maritime police recovered the MT Honour 25, an oil tanker hijacked by pirates off Puntland in April, after a rescue operation in which five crew members were killed and four injured. Three of those killed and three of the injured were Pakistani nationals. Puntland authorities initially said 21 suspected pirates had been apprehended, later revising the figure to 16. Survivors said the pirates opened indiscriminate fire on the hostages while fleeing after exchanging fire with Somali security forces.
The tanker had 19 crew members, including 10 Pakistanis, who had remained in captivity for months amid stalled ransom negotiations and appeals for international intervention. The vessel was reportedly carrying 18,500 barrels of oil when hijacked. The deaths come amid a resurgence of Somali piracy, with at least 15 attacks reported since April, the highest number since 2013, according to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). (“Somali forces recover oil tanker carrying Pakistani crewmen over 5 months after hijacking by pirates,” Dawn, 29 September 2026; “Somali pirates kill three Pakistanis during rescue operation,” The Express Tribune, 29 September 2026)
In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
KP CM persists with 04 October march as federal authorities threaten governor's rule and emergency
On 29 September, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi vowed to proceed with the PTI's planned march to Islamabad on 04 October despite escalating federal threats. Afridi stated protesters would reach Swabi in the first phase, emphasising the march would be peaceful and unarmed. Federal authorities maintained intensifying pressure, with Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah declaring that governor's rule, emergency imposition and dialogue remained "all options on the table". Governor Faisal Karim Kundi warned such measures could be implemented if lawlessness and political unrest worsened, echoing sentiments expressed by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar. Kundi also challenged the PTI's ability to cross Swabi. Afridi criticised the Centre's counterterrorism policy, contending it had failed for 22 years and only Peshawar could address security challenges. The confrontation reflects deepening tensions between Islamabad and the province over both counterterrorism approach and the opposition's political mobilisation efforts. ("KP CM defiant on PTI's Islamabad march as Centre keeps up governor's rule, emergency threat," Dawn, 29 September 2026)
Deputy PM oversees fuel subsidy scheme registrations and reintroduced austerity conservation measures
On 29 September, Dawn reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar chaired a National Steering Committee meeting reviewing implementation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's Fuel Relief Scheme. The scheme, rolled out on 17 September, provides subsidies for motorcycle owners, rickshaw operators and vehicle owners with engines up to 800cc. As of the review date, approximately 7.60 million registrations had been completed with 7.71 million tokens redeemed. Dar lauded the initiative as reflecting a "whole of government" approach involving information, IT and petroleum ministries alongside the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and State Bank of Pakistan across all provinces. The Deputy Premier stressed continued coordination to facilitate beneficiaries and ensure smooth service delivery nationwide. Separately, Dar chaired a Committee for Monitoring and Implementation meeting reviewing progress on austerity and fuel conservation measures introduced by the government, directing all ministries to "fully and effectively implement" previous decisions on fiscal discipline and prudent public resource utilisation. ("DPM Dar hails 'whole of govt' approach as he reviews govt fuel subsidy scheme," Dawn, 29 September 2026)
Opposition invites PPP to participate in planned multiparty conference on constitutional matters
On 29 September, Dawn reported that the Tehreek-i-Tahafuz-Ayin-i-Pakistan (TTAP) opposition alliance formally invited the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) to join a multiparty conference planned to discuss constitutional and democratic issues. A TTAP delegation led by Barrister Gohar Ali Khan met PPP Secretary General Nayyar Hussain Bukhari, briefing him on conference objectives. The PPP responded positively, stating it welcomed the move and would forward the invitation to Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari for consideration. The conference, scheduled for after the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) 04 October Islamabad march, aims to address issues including election independence, provincial autonomy and the contentious proposal for creating new provinces. TTAP spokesperson Akhunzada Hussain Yousafzai confirmed that the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam, Awami National Party and Jamaat-i-Islami would also receive invitations, but the ruling PML-N and its ally, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan, would not be included. Gohar emphasised political parties' importance for strengthening democracy and coordinating on shared agendas transcending partisan interests.
On 28 September, the TTAP said it would “fully participate” in the PTI's nationwide protest, including the march to Islamabad. The PTI has stated that the protest is aimed at securing the release of former prime minister and party founder Imran Khan. The protest was originally planned for 27 September but was postponed due to reported administrative issues. TTAP leaders initially objected to postponing the protest, with the alliance’s spokesperson Akhunzada Hussain Ahmad Yousafzai saying that “every single day after 27 September is crucial for us and this time will not come again”. According to Yousafzai, TTAP had reportedly previously finalised a joint strategy for protests in Sindh and Balochistan and held consultations with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and PTI leadership. Afridi subsequently informed TTAP Chairman Mehmood Khan Achakzai of the postponement. Achakzai and Senate Opposition Leader Raja Nasir Abbas had reportedly urged the PTI to retain the original date but later agreed to respect the decision. Following this, Yousafzai said TTAP would support the march, stating that “As the PTI is our partner, we will support them for the October 4th march.” (“TTAP to 'fully participate' in PTI's Oct 4 protest,” Dawn, 28 September 2026; "PPP 'welcomes' opposition's invite to multiparty moot, says will forward it to Bilawal to consider," Dawn, 29 September 2026)
National Party calls for political dialogue to strengthen democratic institutions
On 28 September, Dawn reported that the National Party (NP) central committee called for broad-based dialogue, constitutional supremacy, and parliamentary sovereignty to develop a consensus-based national course for strengthening democratic institutions. NP President Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, who chaired the meeting, cautioned against policies that deepen mistrust, emphasising that restoring democracy, respecting federal principles, and engaging all national stakeholders was essential to resolving the country’s challenges. He added that the situation in Balochistan and KP was particularly dangerous. Additionally, he noted that the country’s problems could not be resolved through further administrative divisions or the use of force, but through restoration of democracy. (“Political dialogue must to resolve crises, says National Party,” Dawn, 28 September 2026)
ECONOMY
Finance minister holds meeting with IMF mission
On 29 September, Dawn reported that the Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb held a kick-off meeting with a visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff mission. The IMF mission, led by Iva Petrova, is in Islamabad for the fourth review of Pakistan’s USD 7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement and the third review of the USD 1.4bn Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). In a virtual meeting, the Finance Minister briefed the IMF team on the latest macroeconomic indicators, improvements in credit rating and the overall investment climate amid a challenging outlook emanating from the prolonged Iran conflict. However, the authorities continue to breach structural benchmarks under the sovereign wealth fund (SWF) law, which they originally missed in March. The IMF team has been in Pakistan since Sept 23. It spent the initial days in Karachi for engagements with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and other stakeholders. The staff mission has so far held engagements with officials from SBP, the finance ministry, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the Establishment Division, and the finance secretaries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. (“Finance minister kicks off talks with visiting IMF mission,” Dawn, 29 September 2026)
IMF raises concern over delays in amending SOE laws
On 30 September, The Express Tribune reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed concern over continuous delays in amending half a dozen laws of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), particularly the lack of an effective governance model for the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda). The IMF had asked the authorities to align the laws with the SOE Act before mid-November. Subject to the successful conclusion of talks, the IMF board could meet in November to approve the next loan tranche of USD 1 billion under the Extended Fund Facility. According to the last staff-level report, Pakistani authorities had sent amendments to six laws for parliament's approval in January 2026. The report added that the government now needed to make progress on the remaining three SOEs with dedicated laws. The IMF got an update on identifying 10 public-sector entities, which faced a high risk of corruption. It was informed that the NAB was finalising the methodology and had picked 10 out of 30 high-risk entities. (“IMF asks for SOE law change before board meeting,” The Express Tribune, 30 September 2026)
Pakistan calls for transforming Central Asian transport routes
On 30 September, The Express Tribune reported that the Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives has called for transforming CAREC transport routes into next-generation economic corridors by integrating infrastructure, logistics, digital connectivity, energy cooperation and climate resilience. During the 25th Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Ministerial Conference in Ulaanbaatar, the minister said Pakistan viewed CAREC Corridors 5 and 6 as an opportunity to connect Central Asia with the Arabian Sea and generate economic activity along the routes. The minister also called for building a digital corridor across the CAREC region, noting that Pakistan Single Window provided a foundation for phased digital integration with regional partners. The minister called for treating borders as a shared service, with compatible operating hours, advanced electronic information, coordinated procedures and fewer repeated checks. He also emphasised the need to measure border delays, delivery times, local employment, SME participation and opportunities for women and youth. (“Pakistan proposes next generation economic corridors,” The Express Tribune, 30 September 2026)
Pakistan plans LNG policy shift to address power sector gas shortages
On 30 September, The Express Tribune reported that the government is looking towards the power sector for liquefied natural gas (LNG) import by utilising the idle capacity of LNG terminals, as the country faces electricity outages due to shortage of gas. The government is set to amend the policy that will allocate the unutilised capacity of LNG terminals to power plants for the import of gas for their own use. Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) has maintained its monopoly over LNG terminals and the allocation of their unutilised capacity, though it has never been able to utilise the full capacity of these terminals. For a long time, gas consumers have been paying millions of dollars in capacity charges to LNG terminals, but PLL did not allow the private sector to utilise the idle capacity. LNG terminals were available, but government entities were unable to arrange gas imports. Even before the US-Iran war, Pakistan signed a deal with Qatar for diverting 24 LNG cargoes to other destinations during the ongoing year owing to low gas demand in the country. However, LNG demand emerged after the breakout of the US-Iran war, but cargo supplies were suspended by Qatar. (“Power sector may be allowed LNG import,” The Express Tribune, 30 September 2026)
Federal government notifies new procurement rules ahead of IMF review
On 29 September, Dawn reported that the federal government notified new procurement rules two days ahead of the deadline, on the first day of talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for disbursement of USD 1.2 billion, as concerns linger over the continuous breach of structural benchmarks regarding the sovereign wealth fund (SWF) law. The Sovereign Wealth Fund law is part of the discussions with the visiting IMF team. Authorities are in breach of an end-March 2026 structural benchmark on amendments to the Sovereign Wealth Fund Act to adopt governance mechanisms and safeguards for seven state-owned enterprises, involving an asset portfolio of about USD 8 billion. Most of them are blue-chip entities listed on the stock exchange but remain outside normal reporting requirements. They include OGDCL, PPL, Mari Petroleum, National Bank of Pakistan, Govt Holdings, Pakistan Development Fund, and the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower project. The amendments are pending parliamentary approval. The government notified the Public Procurement Rules 2026 to promote greater transparency and competition in public procurement while keeping certain exemptions for direct contracting with SOEs and limiting the bidding to national firms. The IMF had certain reservations over the preferential treatment of SOEs for direct contracting. Rule 32 of the new rules provides that a procuring agency may engage through EPADS (E-Pak Acquisition and Disposal System, a digital system developed and enforced by the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority) to manage and administer the process of procurement in direct contracting with state-owned entities for the procurement of such works and services, including consultancy services, which are time-sensitive, scattered, remotely located and in the public interest or in case of urgency, provided they do not sub-let those contracts. The new rules allow other efficient methods of procurement such as gallop tendering and alternative procurement methods, including shopping and negotiated tendering, subject to specified conditions. Efficiency measures have been embedded in the framework, reducing response times, shortening standstill periods, and streamlining tender processing cycles to enable faster contract awards. (“Govt notifies new procurement rules with IMF team in town,” Dawn, 29 September 2026)
EXTERNAL
PM Shehbaz meets financial firm heads in London; invites them to expand investment in Pakistan
On 29 September, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif became the first Pakistani prime minister to open trading at the London Stock Exchange whilst meeting with senior executives from major global financial institutions in London. Sharif held meetings with officials from JP Morgan, Barclays, Citi, BlackRock and Rothschild & Company, inviting them to expand investment and services in Pakistan. JP Morgan reaffirmed interest in sovereign debt capital markets and corporate banking opportunities. The Prime Minister emphasised improved macroeconomic indicators and praised a recently completed USD 3 billion dual-tranche Eurobond, which he described as exemplifying government efforts towards economic stabilisation. Sharif highlighted Pakistan as an attractive destination for profitable, safe and secure foreign investments, especially given global reassessment of emerging markets following Middle East geopolitical tensions. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali accompanied Sharif during the meetings and the London Stock Exchange ceremony.
("PM Shehbaz meets global financial firms in London, invites them to invest and expand services in Pakistan," Dawn, 29 September 2026)
US delegation acknowledges Pakistan’s role in Afghan war in meeting with CDF Munir
On 28 September, Dawn reported that a delegation of the Afghanistan War Commission of the US called on the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir. The delegation was led by Shamila Chaudhary and Dr Colin F Jackson, and met Munir in Rawalpindi at the General Headquarters. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the delegation acknowledged Pakistan’s “longstanding role and sacrifices during the conflict in Afghanistan” and appreciated its continued contribution to regional peace and stability. The delegation was reportedly reviewing the United States’ 20-year engagement in Afghanistan, with discussions covering Pakistan’s support, the regional security environment, and other developments in Afghanistan. CDF Munir shared Pakistan’s perspective on the security dynamics that shaped the conflict and stressed the need to incorporate a regional perspective and Pakistan’s experience when assessing the conflict’s strategic dimensions. (“US delegation meets CDF Munir, acknowledges Pakistan's 'longstanding role, sacrifices' during Afghan war,” Dawn, 28 September 2026)
SECURITY
KP & Balochistan: Seven militants killed in operations across both provinces
On 29 September, Dawn reported that security forces killed five militants in an intelligence-based operation in KP's Bara area, destroying their hideouts and recovering large quantities of weapons and ammunition, while two more were killed in a separate operation in Balochistan's Chagai; PM Shehbaz Sharif commended the forces for their "professional capabilities, courage and bravery" and pledged operations would continue "until terrorism was completely eliminated." The engagement follows a string of major recent actions, including more than 71 militants killed in Shaban and other Balochistan areas two days earlier, eight killed alongside two officers and four other soldiers in a 20 September Hangu firefight, and 10 more in separate KP operations between 15-17 September, as PICSS data shows August saw 378 people killed nationwide amid rising terrorist attacks, with security forces eliminating 203 militants against 54 security personnel martyred, a toll lower than July's but still concentrated most heavily in Balochistan, followed by KP. ("Security forces kill 5 terrorists in KP IBO, 2 eliminated in Balochistan's Chagai: security sources," Dawn, 29 September 2026)
KP: Terrorist commander neutralised in Lakki Marwat police operation
On 28 September, Dawn reported that security forces killed a terrorist commander during a joint operation by police and Counter-Terrorism Department personnel in Lakki Marwat's Abdulkhel area. The slain militant, identified as Manzoor, was wanted by the CTD in multiple terrorism-related cases. Police and CTD commandos surrounded the mountainous terrain following a Saturday terrorist attack that claimed three civilian lives and injured three others. During an exchange of fire lasting several hours, forces neutralised the commander. A search operation was underway to apprehend his associates. Meanwhile, terrorists also deployed a quadcopter to attack a house near an oil and gas facility in Bittani subdivision, causing partial damage but no casualties. ("Terrorist commander killed in Lakki operation," Dawn, 28 September 2026)
KP: Three traffic policemen killed in armed attack in Tank district
On 28 September, Dawn reported that three traffic police officers were killed and three others injured when unidentified armed assailants opened fire on a traffic police vehicle in Tank's Wazirabad area. Two passersby were also wounded in the attack. The attackers absconded with the police van, prompting security forces to cordon off the area and launch a search operation to apprehend suspects. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed condolences and directed authorities to provide medical treatment to the injured. An investigation into the attack was ongoing. The incident comes amid escalating security challenges in the province, which recorded 54 terrorist attacks in August, a 50 per cent increase compared to July. ("3 traffic policemen martyred in attack on vehicle in KP's Tank," Dawn, 28 September 2026)
Dera Ismail Khan: Security forces kill four terrorists in intelligence operation
On 28 September, Dawn reported that security forces eliminated four terrorists affiliated with the TTP during an intelligence-based operation in Dera Ismail Khan. The operation was conducted following surveillance of terrorist movements by security personnel. Forces recovered a substantial quantity of weapons, ammunition and Afghan currency from the slain militants. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to face sustained security challenges. The province recorded 54 terrorist attacks in August compared with 36 in July. Recently, a dozen people perished at the Aman Mela police checkpost, whilst a major assault on Kohat's Police Lines claimed 23 lives, with eight terrorists killed during a subsequent clearance operation. ("Security forces kill 4 terrorists in Dera Ismail Khan IBO: state media," Dawn, 28 September 2026)
SOCIETY
Pakistani women record highest heart disease mortality among South Asian countries, study finds
On 29 September, Dawn reported that health experts said Pakistani women had the highest age-standardised death rate from ischaemic heart disease among Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan in 2021, according to a 2026 study published in JACC: Asia. Pakistan was also the only country in the study where the ratio of deaths to estimated cases was higher among women than men, at 4.4 per cent compared with 3.1 per cent. High blood pressure and diets low in vegetables and fibre were identified as contributors to this issue, while diabetes, obesity and physical inactivity were also highlighted as risks. The findings were reportedly discussed at the launch of the nationwide ‘Her Heart Matters’ campaign in Karachi, organised by PharmEvo with medical societies to promote screening and early treatment. Moreover, experts added that women’s heart health was often overlooked, including during pregnancy, after childbirth and after menopause. Additionally, Professor Dr Fawad Farooq said Pakistan lacked an “effective primary and secondary cardiovascular care network”, placing pressure on specialised hospitals, while other professors recommended regular screening for women with diabetes, hypertension or obesity, saying these conditions frequently occurred alongside cardiovascular disease. (“Pakistani women face highest heart disease mortality in South Asia, study finds,” Dawn, 29 September 2026)
International civil society groups demand release of lawyers Imaan and Hadi
On 29 September, Dawn reported that 15 international civil society organisations working on lawyers’ protection, human rights and freedom of expression called on Pakistan’s authorities to immediately release lawyers Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha and “give full effect to the Supreme Court’s order of 17 September 2026.” The organisations reportedly demanded that any continued detention must have a clear legal basis and be subject to “rigorous, independent judicial scrutiny”. In addition, they called for charges based on freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, human rights advocacy and the lawyers’ professional duties to be dropped, while noting that authorities should disclose the factual and legal basis for their re-arrest and scrutinise the use of the Anti-Terrorism Act in the current proceedings. Moreover, the groups further demanded safeguards for the lawyers’ safety and dignity while detained, including confidential and unrestricted access to legal counsel, medical care, family contact and protection from torture or other ill-treatment. Additionally, they urged an end to patterns of “reprisals, intimidation or persecution” against lawyers and human rights defenders. Finally, the organisations stressed that lawyers must be able to represent unpopular or politically sensitive clients without retaliation, noting that “the independence of lawyers is an essential component of the right to a fair trial and of the rule of law itself.” (“International rights groups demand release of lawyers Imaan, Chattha,” Dawn, 29 September 2026)
AF-PAK
Info minister says Afghanistan needs to shed "militant mindset"; questions Kabul’s peace motive
On 29 September, Dawn reported that Information Minister Attaullah Tarar told an Islamabad seminar that the interim Afghan government needs to "move out of its militant mindset into a mindset of a statesman or state," calling this the root of all problems between the two countries and describing it as a "very complex" predicament requiring a long, sustainable resolution; while affirming Pakistan believes in peace and has sent multiple high-level delegations to Kabul, with Qatar, Turkiye and China also hosting talks, Tarar said the real question is whether Afghanistan has the will to achieve it, answering his own question with "unfortunately, the answer is no." He said the only real point of contention was continued militancy and terrorist safe havens on Afghan soil, which Islamabad has repeatedly raised with Kabul, and separately criticised the Afghan Taliban's human rights record, describing a "self-created ideology of Islam" that denies both the terrorism problem and basic rights to ordinary Afghans, while stressing Pakistan's desire for peace "must not be misconstrued as its weakness" and that achieving it could open trade routes from Central Asia through Afghanistan to Pakistan. ("Afghan interim govt needs to move out of its 'militant mindset', says Tarar," Dawn, 29 September 2026)
PROVINCES
CM Afridi defends counterterrorism record as federal ministers criticise KP's actions
On 28 September, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi struck a defiant tone, reiterating that the federal government's counterterrorism policy was flawed, whilst federal ministers criticised the provincial administration's approach. Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar held a press conference asserting that the PTI-led KP government had failed to provide leadership, resources and institutional support for counter-terrorism over 14 years. Chaudhry alleged the provincial administration created space for terrorists whilst lacking a functional Counter-Terrorism Department, bulletproof equipment and Safe City projects. Tarar demanded the PTI government decide whether it stood with Pakistan or Afghanistan. Addressing a law and order meeting, Afridi countered that merely providing resources would not solve problems without a policy shift. Governor Faisal Karim Kundi urged the PTI to postpone its planned 4 October long march due to deteriorating security conditions. ("CM Afridi strikes defiant tone as federal ministers rail against KP govt's counter-terror fight," Dawn, 28 September 2026)
SPACE
Two Pakistani pilots undergo training in China as Islamabad is set to choose the first astronaut for China’s Tiangong station
On 28 September, Dawn reported that two pilots from Pakistan, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, had spent months training at the China Astronaut Research and Training Centre in Beijing as Pakistan and China approach a decision on who will become the first Pakistani and first foreign astronaut aboard China’s Tiangong space station. Pakistan’s space agency, Suparco, expects to make the final selection in mid-to-late October. Training reportedly has included learning Mandarin, spacecraft systems, centrifuge drills and adapting to microgravity and the g-forces of launch. The two pilots were selected from around 20 finalists drawn from an initial pool of pilots and scientists, with medical fitness, psychological resilience and tolerance for high g-forces among the criteria. The selected astronaut aboard Tiangong is reported to serve as a “payload specialist”, conducting four biotechnology experiments selected from more than 300 proposals submitted by Pakistani universities, aimed at addressing food insecurity and climate change. The mission is expected to last about a week, with the astronaut launching and returning aboard a Chinese spacecraft alongside a Chinese crew. Suparco official Uzair Ansari described the mission as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for Pakistani scientists. Additionally, when asked about a future Pakistani astronaut mission to the Moon, Amer Gilani said there was “no official commitment or discussion on this matter”. (“China's space diplomacy lifts Pakistani astronaut toward orbit,” Dawn, 28 September 2026)
ON INDIA
Pakistan urges UNSC to call on India to adhere with Indus Waters Treaty
On 30 September, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan has approached the United Nations, urging the Security Council to call on India to implement the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and comply with awards of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). In a second letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted the PCA’s 31 August ruling that the treaty remains “fully in force and binding” on both countries. Pakistan also referred to the court’s interim order about the construction at the Ratle Hydroelectric Plant, under which India was prohibited from completing the dam wall and power intake structure beyond specified levels until 90 days. Islamabad noted against any attempt to “stop, divert, restrict, manipulate or otherwise interfere” with waters legally belonging to Pakistan, saying the Indus Basin sustains nearly 250 million people and is central to agriculture, food security and the economy. Dar said that there could be “humanitarian, economic and security repercussions” if water flows were politicised. Moreover, Pakistan said it had exercised restraint since India placed the treaty in “abeyance” and remained committed to dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution. Additionally, Islamabad requested that the letter be circulated as an official Security Council document under the agenda item “India-Pakistan Question.” (“International rights groups demand release of lawyers Imaan, Chattha,” The Express Tribune, 30 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
|
