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In Focus
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye agree to activate Makkah Defence pact
Islamabad and Ankara prepare to deploy military forces to Saudi Arabia following Houthi attacks on the kingdom
On 06 October, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye agreed to immediately implement their collective defence commitments and prepare for the rapid deployment of agreed military forces and capabilities to Saudi Arabia. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee in Riyadh amid continuing Houthi attacks on the kingdom. The three countries condemned attacks targeting Makkah, Madinah and Saudi civilian and economic facilities, reaffirming that the security of each member was integral to their collective security.
The committee said implementing the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement would strengthen “readiness, military integration” and collective deterrence. Pakistan and Türkiye praised the readiness of Saudi forces, while Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Pakistani and Turkish forces currently had a “supportive role” in the theatre, with Pakistan involved in reconnaissance. The meeting also formalised the alliance’s organisational structure and appointed retired Lieutenant General Nauman Mahmood as its first secretary-general for a three-year term.
The agreement comes amid escalating Saudi-Houthi hostilities, including reported Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory and Saudi-led operations against Houthi-held areas in Yemen. Signed on 07 August, the Makkah pact stipulates that an armed attack against one member would be considered an attack against all three. Pakistan has previously pledged to support Saudi Arabia “practically and diplomatically”, while the alliance’s military chiefs met in Riyadh on 25 September to discuss intelligence sharing, defence coordination and integration of military capabilities. (“Makkah defence alliance agrees to 'rapid force deployment' in Saudi Arabia: FO,” The Express Tribune, 06 October 2026; “Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia agree to rapid force deployment in the kingdom under Makkah pact,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
PTI march advances amid failed talks over Imran Khan and KP security
Interior Minister blames KP CM Afridi for “sabotaging” negotiations; Route closures in DI Khan and South Waziristan cause havoc
On 05 October, Dawn reported that PTI’s long march towards Islamabad proceeded from Lakki Marwat despite the breakdown of talks with the federal government over access to jailed party founder Imran Khan and counterterrorism policy in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who launched the march, said the party would “not accept” policies contrary to the interests of KP and Pashtuns, while thousands of supporters joined the convoy. The procession later reached Karak, with the PTI demanding Imran’s release.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said reconciliation with the government was impossible without including Imran in political dialogue, arguing that he should be consulted on major issues. He also said talks failed because the government rejected PTI’s demand for a collective strategy on terrorism and refused to incorporate recommendations from a KP Assembly peace jirga into an agreement. Government ministers, however, blamed PTI and Afridi for the collapse of negotiations and warned that protesters would not be allowed to enter Islamabad. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi blamed Afridi for the collapse of the talks. “Their team was reasonable. I am repeating that I will not blame anyone else for all of this collapsing. There is only one person responsible for the entire collapse, and that is the KP chief minister,” he said.
The march is unfolding amid heightened security restrictions across KP, with Section 144 imposed on several routes in districts including Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, South Waziristan and Hangu. Former KP chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s convoy was forced to return to DI Khan because of road blockades and security concerns, while he urged workers to remain peaceful. Meanwhile, KP Assembly Speaker Babar Swati said he would reconvene the assembly’s special security committee to develop recommendations on terrorism and clarify the responsibilities of provincial and federal institutions. (“Naqvi says talks with opposition have collapsed, accuses KP CM of 'sabotaging' negotiations,” Dawn, 04 October 2026; “After breakdown of talks with govt, PTI says reconciliation not possible without including Imran,” Dawn, 05 October 2026; “PTI terms access to Imran 'principal point of deadlock', claims Centre refused to include it in agreement,” Dawn, 04 October 2026; “'We are not yes-men': CM Afridi launches PTI long march to Islamabad, convoy enters Karak district,” Dawn, 04 October 2026)
83 per cent rise in violence-linked fatalities in Q3, according to CRSS
Balochistan overtakes KP as worst-hit region amid sharp rise in militant and counter-terrorism deaths
On 02 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan recorded 1,415 violence-linked fatalities and 558 injuries across 385 terrorist attacks and counter-terrorism operations in the third quarter (Q3) of 2026, marking an 83 per cent increase from the previous quarter, according to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS). Balochistan accounted for nearly 59 per cent of deaths, with fatalities rising 213 per cent from 265 in Q2 to 829 in Q3. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa recorded 556 deaths, up 17 per cent, with the two provinces accounting for 98 per cent of national fatalities.
Outlaws accounted for 921 deaths, more than 65 per cent of the total, following nearly 154 security operations, while civilian and security personnel deaths also rose by 36 per cent and 79 per cent, respectively. The TTP was the deadliest group among those claiming attacks, with 13 attacks causing 117 deaths and 65 injuries. Balochistan also recorded the highest number of violent incidents, with 186 cases, while KP reported 173 and the highest number of injuries at 376. The Q3 surge reversed the declining trend seen during the first two quarters and represented the sharpest quarterly escalation in violence since 2021. (“Violence-linked deaths surge 83pc,” Dawn, 02 October 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
IMF review mission progresses on a positive note
On 06 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s ongoing talks with a visiting staff mission of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are set to conclude on a positive note later this week. Two sides are finalising the Memorandum of Economic and Fiscal Policies (MEFP) after covering the substantive parameters of the biannual review. There were no new demands from the Fund, except for makeup adjustments to bridge past slippages. The revenue target remains unchanged, with a greater focus on achieving the half-yearly target following robust collection in the first quarter, which exceeded the target. The two sides have agreed to expedite groundwork for targeted subsidies in the gas sector through the social protection programme to contain gas-sector circular debt and move BISP-based subsidies for the poorest consumers in the power sector into the implementation phase, starting January next year following the introduction of the revised base tariff. (“IMF talks likely to clear way for $1.2bn disbursement,” Dawn, 06 October 2026)
Balochistan government fast-tracks Gwadar infrastructure projects
On 05 October, Dawn reported that the Balochistan government has announced prioritised resources for Gwadar’s infrastructure. During a high-level Gwadar Development Authority (GDA) review meeting, the government decided to prioritise focusing on urban rehabilitation, water supply, sports and education. The DG GDA said the authority had planted more than 5,000 trees across the city and was responsible for the operation and maintenance of various urban infrastructure facilities. These included approximately 31 kilometres of sewage drains, 23 kilometres of rainwater drainage channels, three sports stadiums, three public parks, more than 250 kilometres of roads, the GDA School, GDA Hospital and Fish Landing Jetty. Municipal services were also continuously managing sanitation and maintenance of city avenues, beaches and public spaces. Provincial Planning and Development Minister reviewed ongoing and completed development projects, the water supply situation in the city, funding requirements for future development schemes, administrative matters, and the performance and improvement of the GDA School. (“Govt to fast track Gwadar projects,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
Kissan Board demands increased share of budget for agriculture
On 05 October, Dawn reported that Kissan Board Pakistan has demanded that at least ten per cent of the federal and provincial budgets be allocated to agriculture. The board argued that the sector contributes around 22 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and provides for the livelihood of nearly 60 per cent of the population. The central president of the board said agriculture deserved a substantially higher budgetary allocation instead of the two to three pc share it was currently receiving in the provincial or federal budgets. He said increasing the allocation to 10 per cent would help reduce the cost of agricultural inputs and address the recurring budget deficit. The board demanded the government announce a wheat support price of PKR 5,000 per 40kg and sugarcane price of PKR 700 per 40kg. The central president of the board also cited India’s decision to announce support prices for 22 crops for two years and said mafias were the biggest obstacle to fixing remunerative support prices for wheat and sugarcane in Pakistan. He also warned that if farmers were not given a reasonable return on their produce, the board would join Jamaat-i-Islami’s long march with a convoy of 200 vehicles. (“Farmers' body wants 10pc of budget allocated for agriculture,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
10-year US Treasury note yields exceed five per cent in late September
On 05 October, Dawn reported that the yield on the 10-year US Treasury rose above five per cent in late September, touching 5.29 per cent on 29 September, its highest level since 2007. Pakistan’s reserves had recovered to USD 21.4 billion by 18 September, an important achievement after the near-crisis of 2023. But reserves represent only one side of a country’s balance sheet. To the extent that they are accumulated through new external liabilities, the headline number can overstate the improvement in the underlying external position. Also, high US rates alter the economics of foreign investment. Pakistan is placing considerable hopes on attracting capital into mining, energy and infrastructure. International investors, however, do not evaluate Pakistani projects in isolation. When US government bonds yielded close to zero, a project offering an expected dollar return of 10 per cent could appear attractive despite substantial risk. If investors can obtain more than five per cent from US government debt, Pakistani projects must offer appreciably more to compensate for currency, regulatory, political and execution risks. (“Impact of high US interest rates,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
Pakistan's nuclear electricity production increases by 3.7 per cent
On 05 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s nuclear electricity production increased by 3.7 per cent to a record 22.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2025. As per the World Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR) 2026, Pakistan’s nuclear electricity production has increased from 21.7TWh net in 2024 to a new all-time high of 22.5TWh in 2025. Also, solar power generation expanded even faster amid unaffordable overall energy prices. Solar power generation exceeded nuclear output, by far, with 36.3 TWh. The WNISR 2026 is financed by the German Federal Office for the Safety of Nuclear Waste Management, the Austrian Federal Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management, the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament and the Swiss Energy Foundation. (“Nuclear power output rises 4pc to record high,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
Pakistan's nuclear electricity production increases by 3.7 per cent
On 05 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s nuclear electricity production increased by 3.7 per cent to a record 22.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2025. As per the World Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR) 2026, Pakistan’s nuclear electricity production has increased from 21.7TWh net in 2024 to a new all-time high of 22.5TWh in 2025. Also, solar power generation expanded even faster amid unaffordable overall energy prices. Solar power generation exceeded nuclear output, by far, with 36.3 TWh. The WNISR 2026 is financed by the German Federal Office for the Safety of Nuclear Waste Management, the Austrian Federal Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management, the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament and the Swiss Energy Foundation. (“Nuclear power output rises 4pc to record high,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
City blockade disturbs Karachi port operations
On 03 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s effort to keep supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan out of the capital has led to a pileup of shipping containers in the nation’s main port of Karachi, 1,400 kilometres away. Steel shipping containers, packed with sand and welded together, have lined the roads into Islamabad for weeks, in preparation against a march, postponed from 27 September, to demand Khan’s release from prison. The containers are positioned ready for placement at key entry points into Islamabad, a capital region larger than the Southeast Asian city-state of Singapore. The disruption was affecting routes to Islamabad, the military city of Rawalpindi, and the cities of Jhelum, Peshawar and Attock. (“Capital blockade chokes Karachi Port Operations,” Dawn, 03 October 2026)
World Bank asks government to implement policy actions under economic reforms partnership
On 02 October, Dawn reported that the World Bank called upon the government to expedite implementation of policy actions under its USD 20 billion economic reform partnership for harmonisation of sales tax, provincial agriculture and property taxes and removing regulatory constraints to achieve higher growth, revenue mobilisation and trade and investment facilitation. The World Bank group launched the 10-year country partnership framework 2025-35 in January 2025, with a total blended financing of about USD 20 billion, involving concessionary and commercial lending facilities. It is now pursuing the implementation phase of the agreed reform agenda. (“World Bank calls on govt to implement policy actions under 20bn reform partnership,” Dawn, 02 October 2026)
Pakistan’s merchandise exports expand by 10.84 per cent in first quarter of FY27
On 03 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s merchandise exports grew by 10.84 per cent in the first quarter of the current fiscal year (FY27), despite the trade gap widening on the back of rising imports. As per Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data, in absolute terms, export proceeds stood at USD 8.43 billion in July-September, up from USD 7.59 billion in the corresponding period last year. In FY26, Pakistan’s merchandise exports not only missed the annual target by USD 4.87 billion, but also contracted, reflecting the PML-N-led coalition government’s failure to achieve visible improvement over the last four years. Export proceeds also contracted by 5.97 per cent to USD 32.04 billion. The coordinator of the All Pakistan Exporters Association Forum said exporters were struggling for survival amid unprecedented challenges, including high manufacturing costs, lack of competitiveness, and the absence of a level playing field. According to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data, imports rose 13.21 per cent to USD 19.22 billion in the first quarter of FY27 from USD 16.97 billion in the corresponding quarter last year. (“Exports increase 11pc amid soaring deficit,” Dawn, 03 October 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Defence Minister blames PTI's policy of talks with TTP for worsening KP security
On 05 October, The Express Tribune reported that Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) of pursuing negotiations with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), alleging the party's policy had contributed significantly to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's security crisis. In a detailed statement, Asif said the issue between federal authorities and Peshawar was terrorism, not politics, whilst questioning the provincial government's handling of police capacity, counterterrorism infrastructure and security funding. Asif alleged Imran Khan had always harboured a soft corner for TTP and claimed the party's thinking aligned more with negotiating terrorism rather than the state's policy of eliminating it. He noted that after becoming Prime Minister, Imran had claimed he knew how to end terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and called for talks with militants. Asif criticised former Inter-Services Intelligence chief General Faiz Hameed, alleging he was used to advance the talks agenda. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa data showed the province witnessed approximately 6,200 terrorism incidents and 1,200 deaths over two years, including 37 suicide attacks allegedly by Afghan nationals, with 14 suicide attacks already occurring this year, mostly by Afghan nationals. Asif questioned whether provincial police of 125,000 personnel had adequate capacity, noting about 13,000 deployed on VIP security and 17,000 posts vacant despite the province's frontline counterterrorism role. ("Khawaja Asif calls K-P security crisis 'not politics but terrorism'," The Express Tribune, 05 October 2026)
Senior police officials warn new KP law would convert force into government's political tool
On 05 October, Dawn reported that senior police officials fear the proposed Police Act 2026 approved by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on 23 September would turn a free and independent police department into a political force that could be forced to side with the provincial government during protests and crackdowns. Officials questioned why it took nine years for the government to replace the Police Act 2017, which was widely appreciated for granting complete independence to the police force and stood as a model for police reforms across the country. The proposed law would shift key operational, financial, and administrative powers away from the Inspector General of police to the Chief Minister, conditioning postings and transfers of regional and district police officers to the Chief Minister's approval. Under the law, only transfers and postings of deputy superintendent of police and below would remain with the police chief. Officials noted that the Peshawar High Court had already struck down similar provisions that removed the police chief's authority and warned the government could face legal repercussions once it left office. One official cautioned that cropping the police chief's powers could drive many officers to leave the province. Officials emphasised that the law was discussed for months whilst the political confrontation between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and federal governments worsened, suggesting the timing was deliberate. They said the government wanted police that would "stand with them in situation". ("New law to turn police into govt's 'political force', officials fear," Dawn, 05 October 2026)
Anti-terrorism court directs production of Imran Khan at next Federal Judicial hearing
On 05 October, Dawn reported that an anti-terrorism court directed authorities to produce Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf founder Imran Khan before the court at the next hearing, either physically or via video link, in a case pertaining to the March 2023 attack on the Federal Judicial Complex. Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra issued the directive whilst hearing the case registered against Imran and other PTI leaders at Ramna Police Station. The court also declared former federal ministers Farrukh Habib, Hammad Azhar and Murad Saeed, and former senator Shibli Faraz proclaimed offenders after they failed to appear before the court. The judge directed relevant authorities to submit details of assets owned by the proclaimed offenders. The court issued non-bailable arrest warrants for former Punjab Assembly deputy speaker Wasiq Qayyum and PTI Member of Provincial Assembly Hassan Khan Niazi. The court adjourned further proceedings until 5 November. On 18 March 2023, clashes occurred between police and PTI workers whilst Imran appeared at the Federal Judicial Complex for a hearing in the Toshakhana case. Islamabad police alleged party workers had shelled the Judicial Complex and set fire to a police post, whilst PTI accused police of shelling Imran's vehicle. ("ATC directs authorities to produce PTI founder Imran Khan at next hearing in FJC attack case," Dawn, 05 October 2026)
KP Governor and Interior Minister discuss possible imposition of governor’s rule
On 05 October, Dawn reported that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi to discuss the province’s security situation amid speculation over the possible imposition of governor’s rule. According to the Governor House, the two leaders expressed concern over the “risk of facilitating terrorists to safely cross security checkposts” during the PTI’s Islamabad march. They reportedly agreed that if the President and Prime Minister considered governor’s rule necessary to “save the province from terrorism and destruction,” then the Governor’s House would fulfil its constitutional role. The meeting also discussed growing unrest, the political situation and developments linked to the Islamabad march. Additionally, Naqvi and Kundi criticised the KP government’s approach during negotiations on counterterrorism measures, terming the use of helicopters and other government resources by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and provincial ministers for the march a “blatant violation” of an Islamabad High Court verdict. Meanwhile, a government source told Dawn that governor’s rule was being seriously considered, noting that the imposition of emergency in KP was “imminent.” This comes in the backdrop of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari stating that the federal government had decided to impose emergency or governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on 03 October. Speaking in Karachi, he said the federal government had been in contact with President Asif Ali Zardari and the PPP over the security situation, further adding that governor’s rule or emergency was a constitutional option but described it as a “constitutional atomic bomb.” Moreover, he urged the PTI to abandon the march, saying its protest had already been “somewhat successful.” Separately, Bilawal announced water projects for Karachi, including a 35-million-gallon treatment facility for SITE, with capacity planned to reach 100 million gallons in a second phase. (“Naqvi, Kundi mull governor’s rule,” Dawn, 05 October 2026; “Bilawal says Centre was ready to impose emergency in KP but PPP sought 'political solution',” Dawn, 03 October 2026)
Interior Minister says country's system undergoing reset; will improve state of affairs
On 03 October, The Express Tribune reported that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the country's system was about to undergo a reset that would enhance the state of affairs in Pakistan. Speaking at a Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry ceremony, Naqvi stated that meaningful structural reforms were essential and that this reset could not occur without business community support. He contended that when the system underwent a reset, many improvements would materialise. Naqvi emphasised that Pakistan should learn from developed nations' experience and systems, stressing that exports must be increased and "Made in Pakistan" prioritised, citing Iran's example following sanctions imposition. He warned that without structural change, the country would remain trapped in recurring crises. Naqvi argued that Pakistan's governance model had effectively collapsed after decades of failure, adding that administrative decentralisation was essential to improve public services, ensure timely justice and create opportunities for youth. He cautioned that the current system could not dispense justice despite establishing new courts and that continued borrowing without reforms would worsen economic challenges. Naqvi urged political parties to sit together, setting aside differences in favour of Pakistan's national interest, and called for greater business community participation in economic policymaking. ("'The country's system is about to be reset': Naqvi says move will bring improvement in affairs," The Express Tribune, 03 October 2026)
EXTERNAL
Moscow Format talks on Afghanistan end without a joint statement after Pakistan and Taliban clash over terrorism language
On 05 October, Dawn reported that the eighth Moscow Format consultations on Afghanistan ended without a joint communique, possibly the first time the series has failed to agree one, with Russian envoy Zamir Kabulov saying Pakistani and Afghan delegations "didn't see eye to eye," as the Afghan side objected to references placing Afghanistan in a terrorist context. Pakistan's special envoy Mohammad Sadiq told the meeting that Islamabad's "numerous goodwill gestures" had been misconstrued, resulting in increased terrorist attacks from Afghan soil with Taliban backing, while Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi accused Pakistan of using military pressure, refugees, students and transit routes as leverage yet insisted dialogue could resolve differences; Russia offered to help de-escalate if both sides request it, though Kabulov stressed bilateral disputes weren't the forum's purpose. Separately, the ICC unsealed arrest warrants for Taliban education minister Habibullah Agha and higher education minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem over alleged gender-based persecution of women and girls. ("Moscow moot ends sans joint statement," Dawn, 05 October 2026)
UN Secretary-General to visit Pakistan between 06-08 October
On 05 October, Dawn reported that UN Secretary-General António Guterres will visit Pakistan from 06-08 October, the Foreign Office said, meeting President Asif Ali Zardari, PM Shehbaz Sharif, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and CDF Field Marshal Asim Munir, visiting the UNMOGIP headquarters, and attending a briefing at the NDMA, with the FO saying the visit would highlight Pakistan's efforts toward multilateralism, international peace and security, and disaster preparedness and early warning. It comes as Guterres' 10-year term ends on 31 December, following Dar's invitation at the UN General Assembly last month and Guterres' only prior visit as secretary-general in February 2020, and as two of the six candidates vying to succeed him, María Fernanda Espinosa and Olara Otunnu, have visited Pakistan in recent months and praised its role in promoting peace. ("UN chief's visit this week to highlight Pakistan's efforts towards multilateralism: FO," Dawn, 05 October 2026)
Foreign Minister tells British envoy diplomacy "the only viable way forward" on Mideast tensions
On 03 October, Dawn reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told British High Commissioner Jane Marriott in Islamabad that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable way to ease Middle East tensions, with both sides welcoming what the Foreign Office called "positive momentum" in Pakistan-UK ties and discussing upcoming engagements to broaden cooperation. Dar also chaired an inter-ministerial meeting preparing for the third session of the Pakistan-Bahrain Joint Ministerial Commission, which he will co-chair with Bahrain's foreign minister during his visit to Islamabad next week, directing ministries to pursue concrete outcomes, and led a high-level review of AJK's development agenda, stressing timely project completion and efficient use of funds. ("Need for dialogue to ease Mideast tensions, Dar tells British envoy," Dawn, 03 October 2026)
Pakistani UN diplomat appointed to CERF Advisory Group
On 02 October, Dawn reported that Qazi Shaukat Fareed, the current Permanent Observer for the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean to the United Nations, has been appointed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to the Advisory Group of the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). He is reportedly amongst eight members from Australia, Belgium, Finland, Ireland, South Korea, the US, and the UK. (“Pakistani diplomat appointed to UN advisory group,” Dawn, 02 October 2026)
SECURITY
KP: Three terrorists killed in Dera Ismail Khan operation
On 05 October, Dawn reported that security forces killed three terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the operation, with the premier reaffirming the state’s commitment to eliminating Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The operation came amid heightened militant activity in KP, where 54 terrorist attacks were recorded in August, up 50 per cent from July, according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). Security forces have also conducted several recent operations in D.I. Khan and other KP districts, killing dozens of militants. The latest operation follows a suicide bombing at the Aman Mela checkpoint in D.I. Khan that killed 12 people and injured 35 others. (“Security forces kill 3 terrorists in DI Khan IBO: state media,” Dawn, 05 October 2026)
KP & Balochistan: Eleven militants killed in South Waziristan and Mashkel in separate operations
On 03 October, Dawn reported that security forces killed 11 militants in intelligence-based operations: five Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in KP's South Waziristan, where hideouts were destroyed and weapons recovered, and six other militants in Balochistan's Gorander and Mashkel areas under "Operation Raddul Fitna 3", after the latter opened fire on a Mashkel checkpost and tried to flee; state media said operations would continue under the "Azm-i-Istehkam" vision. The operations follow a steady run of recent actions in KP, including three killed in Mir Ali on 30 September and five in Bara the day before. ("11 terrorists killed during operations in KP, Balochistan: state media," Dawn, 03 October 2026)
PROVINCES
Ready for Punjab local polls but legal roadblocks persist in KP, Islamabad and Quetta, says Election Commission
On 05 October, Dawn reported that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) told a special meeting chaired by CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja that it is prepared to hold local government elections in Punjab, having sent the provincial government a draft schedule and asked for returning officer lists, while preparations are also under way in Sindh; in Islamabad, delimitation is done but the amendment ordinance has lapsed, so the ECP will press the federal government to complete legislation or else hold polls under the existing 2015 Act, and in cantonments it is waiting on a formal federal request required under the amended Cantonments Act, despite reminders to the prime minister. In KP, the commission said the provincial government's decision to raise the population threshold for village and neighbourhood councils from 5,000-15,000 to 30,000-40,000 has made delimitation unworkable and that the case is now under hearing, while in Balochistan, whose local government terms expire on 8 February 2027, Quetta polls remain stalled despite Federal Constitutional Court orders because the provincial government split the city into two districts without sharing boundary data, a response the ECP called "really slow." ("ECP 'ready' for LG polls in Punjab but cites legal and administrative hurdles in KP, Islamabad," Dawn, 05 October 2026)
Sindh: Government launches PKR 87 billion coastal resilience project
On 02 October, Dawn reported that Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah launched the PKR 87 billion Sindh Coastal Resilience Project (SCRP) to strengthen climate resilience and livelihoods for around one million people across 500 villages in Thatta, Sujawal and Badin. Implemented with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the project will support climate-smart agriculture, fisheries, livelihood diversification and financial inclusion, while providing skills training to 43,000 young people and economic assistance to 30,000 vulnerable households. It will also rehabilitate drainage and irrigation systems, strengthen flood protection and restore more than 15,000 hectares of mangroves and 6,000 hectares of inland plantations. Officials said the project will improve resilience across 157,130 hectares of farmland and could avert nearly PKR 8.95 billion in annual flood-related damages. (“Rs87bn coastal resilience project launched for three Sindh districts,” Dawn, 02 October 2026)
Punjab: Lahore tops global pollution rankings amid smog concerns
On 02 October, Dawn reported that IQAir ranked Lahore the world’s most polluted city, recording an AQI of 167 in the morning, classified as “unhealthy”. The city’s PM2.5 concentration was 15.2 times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual guideline value, with industrial emissions, vehicle pollution, crop burning and weather conditions contributing to deteriorating air quality. Lahore later fell to 10th place with an AQI of 149. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the government was working to address environmental problems, noting that smog levels had declined over the past three years. The development follows Lahore's January AQI of 452 and its recent ranking among cities with “extremely poor” ozone levels by the EU’s Copernicus monitoring service. (“Lahore ranked as the most polluted city in the world, again,” Dawn, 02 October 2026)
HEALTH
Healthcare facilities acutely vulnerable to fire hazards, experts warn at Islamabad seminar
On 04 October, Dawn reported that experts at a seminar held in Karachi emphasised that Pakistan's healthcare facilities remain critically vulnerable to fire hazards, requiring immediate steps to build institutional capacity for safety. The seminar titled "Fire & Life Safety in Healthcare Facilities: Building a Resilient Pakistan through International Codes and Standards" was organised at Pakistan Medical Association House. Karachi chapter PMA President Dr Ismail Memon stressed that ageing infrastructure, overloaded electrical systems, weak code enforcement, compromised cabling, and limited emergency preparedness have made the country's healthcare sector extremely vulnerable to fire hazards, emphasising that a hospital must be the safest place in any community. Speakers from major institutions, including Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation and Aga Khan University Hospital, demonstrated how rigid smoke compartmentation and passive barriers under the National Fire Protection Association standards effectively insulate active patient care spaces. Experts warned that hospital fires rapidly escalate into severe patient safety crises because they endanger vulnerable, non-ambulatory patients who cannot evacuate unaided while destroying critical equipment and services communities depend on. Infrastructure resilience requires regulators who enforce, institutions that invest, professionals who train, and associations that sustain the conversation, concluded experts, noting safety is also environmental sustainability. ("Country's healthcare facilities acutely vulnerable to fire hazards, seminar told," Dawn, 04 October 2026)
FAO warns of gaps in nutritious food supply as 60 per cent cannot afford healthy diet
On 04 October, Dawn reported that the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has emphasised urgent transformation of Pakistan's agrifood system to improve access to healthy diets, addressing all forms of malnutrition and their related societal costs. The UN agency's latest assessment on "Food Supply for Healthy Diets in Pakistan" observed that a major challenge remains the persistent mismatch between food quantities available and those required for the population to consume healthy diets aligned with national food-based dietary guidelines. The assessment highlighted that over 60 per cent of Pakistanis cannot afford a healthy diet, contributing to high malnutrition rates, whilst diet-related non-communicable diseases rise and various undernutrition forms persist. The FAO recommended reorienting the agrifood system to deliver healthy diets, aligning agricultural policies and investment priorities to increase support for vegetables, fruits, pulses, roots and tubers production nationwide. The assessment called for promoting healthier retail food environments through investments in storage, cold chains and market infrastructure to reduce losses. Large gaps were observed for vegetables, roots and tubers, fruits and legumes, and pulses, whilst supply for staples and sugar exceeded what is needed for healthy diets. These actions, combined with regular monitoring, can increase access to and consumption of healthy diets in Pakistan. ("FAO flags gaps in Pakistan's nutritious food supply," Dawn, 04 October 2026)
AF-PAK
Harsh winter and housing shortage delay illegal Afghan repatriation via Torkham border
On 02 October, Dawn reported that hostile socio-economic conditions, acute residential facility shortages and Afghanistan's impending severe winter have significantly hampered illegal Afghan national repatriation through the Torkham border since early September. Official sources indicated that only 150 to 200 Afghan nationals now cross daily compared with 800 to 1,000 in April, May and June. Customs terminal and immigration offices appeared nearly deserted following this drastic decline in returning Afghan families over five to six weeks. Sources noted that customs authorities had eased mandatory 100 per cent manual examination of personal belongings after receiving intelligence regarding illegal export of medicine, rice, motorcycles and miscellaneous items hidden in household effects. Repatriated families complained about seized costly personal belongings during customs examinations. Officials said that after receiving complaints from customs clearing agents managing personal belongings clearance, only suspicious vehicles underwent manual examination. Remaining Afghan families residing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cities were hesitant due to Afghanistan's political-economic situation. Repatriated family members and acquaintances advised against returning, citing housing shortages, employment scarcity, a dearth of business opportunities, and unbearable winters persisting until March and April. Sources noted that comparatively lenient provincial government policy had encouraged Afghan families to remain despite repeated police and law-enforcement agency extortion. ("Impending harsh winter, lack of residential facilities hamper illegal Afghans' repatriation," Dawn, 02 October 2026)
ON INDIA
Indus Waters Treaty abeyance poses serious risk to millions of Pakistanis, UNHRC forum warns
On 3 October, Dawn reported that India's decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance has raised concerns regarding water security, agriculture and livelihoods of millions of people dependent on the Indus Basin, as the six-decade-old agreement faces one of its most serious challenges. Concerns were discussed on 2 October at a side event held in Geneva on the margins of the 63rd UN Human Rights Council session. The event titled "Water Justice and Climate Resilience: Advancing Transboundary Cooperation in South Asia and the Middle East" brought together legal experts, researchers, diplomats, practitioners and civil society representatives to discuss international water law, human rights, climate resilience, environmental justice and shared river management. The Permanent Court of Arbitration determined that the treaty remains in force despite India's abeyance decision, whilst India rejected arbitration and Pakistan cited the court's order as supporting its position that the agreement remains effective. Speakers argued that rivers should be viewed not solely as interstate matters but as experienced directly by people and communities. Experts linked water governance with human rights, noting that river decisions affect drinking water, agriculture, livelihoods, communities and health. Discussion addressed concerns about using shared waters as instruments of political pressure, emphasising downstream communities' interests and legal frameworks protecting water security and human rights. Contributors noted that shared river systems face increasing pressure from climate change, population growth, environmental degradation and rising freshwater demand. ("Indus Waters Treaty abeyance puts millions at risk, UNHRC event warns," Dawn, 3 October 2026)
Pakistan summons Indian envoy following alleged killing of two unarmed civilians by border troops
On 03 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan summoned the Indian chargé d'affaires to lodge a strong protest over the alleged killing of two Pakistani civilians by Indian Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in the Bedian sector along the international border. Two unarmed Pakistanis were allegedly killed and another injured in firing by India's BSF near Kasur on 02 October. The Foreign Office stated that BSF personnel resorted to unprovoked and lethal force against unarmed civilians, adding that such use of force was wholly unjustified and grossly disproportionate, resulting in tragic loss of life. Pakistan categorically rejected any attempt to mischaracterise the deceased as infiltrators. The Foreign Office (FO) said the incident constituted a serious violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, and raised concerns over civilian protection under international law. Pakistan called on India to conduct an immediate, transparent and credible investigation, take appropriate disciplinary and legal action against those responsible, and formally communicate findings to Islamabad. The three victims were unarmed residents of Ladhar village who had moved ahead of a border pillar when BSF opened fire without warning. According to security sources, none had attempted to cross the border fence, with the incident described as a violation of the border agreement and standard operating procedures. This development comes after the army presented an individual India claimed to have neutralised as a terrorist allegedly linked to the Pakistani military. ("Pakistan summons Indian envoy over killing of 2 civilians by border troops," Dawn, 03 October 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Society
Aisha Khan, “Gendered future,” Dawn, 06 October 2026
"The UN secretary-general’s recent observation that peace lasts longer when women are at the table, economies become more dynamic when women have equal opportunity, societies more resilient when women can learn and lead, and institutions more effective when power is shared, is not simply a statement about fairness. For Pakistan, it is a development proposition. The question is not whether Pakistani women can lead. It is why a country of more than 240 million people still uses so little of that capacity."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2035108/gendered-future
Editorial, “Mass surveillance,” Dawn, 27 September 2026
“The new National Cybercrime Investigation Agency chief, Ali Nasir Rizvi, has adopted a “zero-tolerance policy against fake news and anti-state propaganda”, according to the agency. Troublingly, neither ‘fake news’ nor ‘anti-state propaganda’ has a clear, legal meaning, and the fact that these terms are now centrepieces in the NCCIA’s policy gives rise to concerns about what the state’s priorities truly are. The authority’s mandate includes protecting citizens from fraud, harassment, blackmail, and financial scams. It recently shut down several fraudulent call centres, showing it can deliver well on those responsibilities. Monitoring and policing opinion are something else altogether."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2035104/mass-surveillance
Economy
Editorial, “Farming reform,” Dawn, 06 October 2026
“(The farming body) has criticised urea shortages, high electricity bills, weak fruit sector returns, and the Pak-Afghan border closure, warning of protests if their demands are not met. Their case for enhanced budgetary allocations deserves consideration. The sector contributes about 22pc of GDP and supports nearly 60pc of the population, but receives only 2-3pc of allocations. However, money alone will not fix matters. Nor should a larger allocation become another excuse for inefficient price subsidies. Pakistan has spent decades trying to support farmers through administered prices, input subsidies and other interventions. This has distorted markets, encouraged inefficient production and benefited better-connected producers more than small farmers."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2035106/farming-reform
Politics & governance
Editorial, “Of protests and parleys,” The Express Tribune, 06 October 2026
“It's a tale of missed opportunities by both the government and the opposition. The two-day talks briefly sparked euphoria, fostering a belief that a consensus was at hand to pave the way for much-needed political stability. That belief, however, proved to be an illusion. The opposition blamed the treasury for moving the goalposts, while the government questioned the opposition's sincerity. This stalemate has unfortunately forced both sides back into rigid stances, pushing an already fragile politico-economic order into even more chaotic territory."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2633144/of-protests-and-parleys
On Afghanistan
Kamran Yousaf, “From friendly to 'delusional',” The Express Tribune, 05 October 2026
“Pakistan's relationship with the Afghan Taliban has entered a dangerous new phase. For months, Islamabad has been warning the Taliban regime that it cannot allow Afghan territory to be used by terrorist groups targeting Pakistan. There have been diplomatic contacts, warnings, mediation efforts, and repeated assurances. None of that appears to have worked. Pakistan is now relying increasingly on military force, carrying out strikes deep inside Afghanistan against what it says are terrorist hideouts and infrastructure. But perhaps more significant than the strikes themselves is the language coming out of Islamabad."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2033193/expanding-surveillance
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