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Pakistan-Afghanistan War Update
Operation to continue until Kabul ends terrorist support, says security official
Cross-border hostilities enter second week as Afghan Taliban suffer “heavy military losses”; Russia calls for dialogue
On 05 March, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Pakistan would continue with Operation Ghazab Lil Haq against Afghanistan until "credible guarantees and concrete steps" are taken by the Afghan Taliban to cease their support for terrorist groups attacking Pakistan, a senior security official said. State-run Radio Pakistan reported that the senior security official was addressing journalists at the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) headquarters, where he said that the Taliban regime was “well aware of Pakistan’s concerns” and that it was up to them to take action. “If they want dialogue or a ceasefire, they must take verifiable steps. Pakistan does not wish to attack anyone; our priority remains the country’s security,” he added. He also said that the Pakistan-Afghanistan border was the only international border that was “guarded on one side.” He further added that there had been no change in the Afghan Taliban’s approach to the terrorism issue despite three other countries accepting Pakistan’s evidence during ceasefire negotiations last October.
The security official also briefed journalists on the ongoing operation, saying that Pakistan was targeting terrorist hideouts, facilitation centres and cross-border launch pads, and rejected claims of targeting civilians. He also noted that the full implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) was essential for eliminating terrorism. "It was said that Pakistan believes in constructive and positive relations with all countries and remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he added.
Pakistan continued its comprehensive operation as hostilities enter the second week. The security official said that on Thursday, the Afghan Taliban suffered “heavy military losses”, without mentioning any figures. He added that the Taliban’s Brigade Headquarters of the 205 Corps in Kandahar and 41 other checkposts had been destroyed the previous night. Meanwhile, Russia expressed concern over the ongoing fighting and called for dialogue to end the hostilities. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that civilian populations on both sides were suffering as a result of the fighting and urged them to refrain from further military confrontation. This comes following Türkiye’s willingness to re-establish the ceasefire between the two sides. (“Op Ghazab Lil Haq to go on until 'credible guarantees, concrete steps' by Kabul to halt terrorist support: state media,” The Express Tribune, 05 March 2026; “Afghan Taliban aware of Pakistan’s concerns, must take verifiable steps for ceasefire: senior security official,” Dawn, 05 March 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Govt dismisses ‘fabricated’ notice on suspension of Pakistan port entries
On 05 March, Dawn reported that the government rejected as “fabricated” a notification claiming the Cabinet Division had ordered the temporary suspension of all port entries across Pakistan due to security concerns. In a fact check, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said no such directive had been issued by the Cabinet Division or the Ministry of Maritime Affairs. The fake notice, dated 04 March, alleged an emergency meeting and listed Karachi, Gwadar, Pasni, Ormara and Jiwani ports for “temporary suspension” without citing specific threats. The clarification came amid Middle East hostilities disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, as Pakistan sought alternative oil supply routes via Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu port. Authorities noted a spike in misinformation linked to the Iran-Israel conflict and urged reliance on verified sources. (“Govt refutes ordering temporary suspension of port entries in Pakistan,” Dawn, 05 March 2026)
Middle East crisis disrupts industry, energy supply chains
On 05 March, Dawn reported that the ongoing Middle East crisis has begun affecting Pakistan’s industrial sector, with firms warning of supply chain and energy disruptions. Agritech Ltd announced the shutdown of its urea plant after Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd suspended RLNG supply from 04 March, citing a potential force majeure declared by its LNG supplier amid regional conflict. Separately, Indus Motor Company warned of delays in imported auto parts due to shipping congestion and rising freight costs. FPCCI leader Saquib Fayyaz Magoon cautioned that escalating Gulf tensions and any closure of the Strait of Hormuz threaten Pakistan’s economy, urging emergency energy measures and alternative supply routes. (“Middle East crisis hits local industries,” Dawn, 05 March 2026)
Govt plans weekly fuel price review, conservation steps amid supply risks; Dealers warn of pump closures as supply cuts alleged
On 05 March, Dawn reported that the government had decided, in principle, to introduce weekly petroleum price revisions from 08 March and to revive fuel conservation measures amid potential supply disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. A cabinet committee formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif finalised a national action plan after consulting the provinces, with steps including work-from-home, distance learning, and carpooling. Officials said the plan would be presented for approval before formal adoption. Authorities reviewed stock positions and supply scenarios, maintaining that reserves were sufficient despite global shipping risks and volatility tied to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
On 05 March, The Express Tribune also reported that leaders of the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association warned petrol pumps could begin shutting within days, alleging oil marketing companies had sharply reduced supplies. At a Lahore press conference, officials claimed diesel deliveries had fallen to 20 per cent and petrol supply by half, while accusing some firms of hoarding to pressure price hikes. Dealers urged urgent government intervention to restore normal distribution and prevent public hardship. Separately, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority said national fuel stocks remained sufficient for about 28 days, though crude shipments were affected by regional shipping disruptions. (“Govt decides in principle to implement work-from-home, distance learning for fuel conservation,” Dawn, 05 March 2026; “Petrol pumps may shut within days as dealers warn of supply cuts,” The Express Tribune, 05 March 2026)
EXTERNAL
Chinese aerospace firm eyes USD 10 billion investment
On 06 March, Dawn reported that the Chinese Aerospace Development Industry Investment Group expressed interest in investing up to USD 10 billion in Pakistan across mining and minerals, advanced technology industries and industrial development. A high-level delegation led by Party Secretary and Chairman Lu Jinhai met Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Minister for the Board of Investment. It highlighted plans to collaborate on skill development, emphasising a long-term commitment to Pakistan’s economic growth and technological progress. The delegation also conveyed support for enhancing regional connectivity under the One Belt One Road initiative. The minister briefed the delegation on Pakistan’s investment landscape, citing its strategic location linking South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East, a consumer market of over 240 million people, a young workforce and investor-friendly incentives. The company also shared its global profile, noting its AAA credit rating and investments in aerospace, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, drone technologies and energy projects. (“China aerospace firm eyes $10bn investment,” Dawn, 06 March 2026)
Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia call for “maximum restraint” amid Middle East crisis
On 05 March, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan separately agreed with Indonesia and Malaysia to jointly urge “maximum restraint” from all parties involved in the escalating Middle East crisis, as diplomatic outreach intensified. According to the Prime Minister's Office, PM Shehbaz Sharif held telephone calls with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, expressing “deep concern” over the situation. Leaders agreed to “work together to urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint” and pursue dialogue and diplomacy. The premier condemned Israel’s attacks on Iran and subsequent strikes affecting Gulf states, and stressed respect for sovereignty under international law. He also briefed both leaders on Afghanistan-related security efforts. Separately, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed de-escalation with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott and Canadian counterpart Anita Anand, emphasising “dialogue, diplomacy and adherence to international law.” (“Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia agree on jointly urging 'maximum restraint' to Mideast crisis stakeholders,” The Express Tribune, 05 March 2026)
Pakistan voices “serious concern” over attacks on Turkiye, Azerbaijan
On 06 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan expressed “serious concern” over recent attacks targeting Turkiye and Azerbaijan, urging restraint and emphasising dialogue and diplomacy amid widening regional tensions. In a statement, the Foreign Office said the incidents violated international law and “could push the region toward further escalation,” reaffirming solidarity with both countries. A drone strike injured two people at an airport in Azerbaijan’s Nakhichevan exclave, while Turkiye summoned Iran’s ambassador after a missile landed in its territory; Tehran denied responsibility in both cases. Separately, Asif Ali Zardari warned that such developments risk heightening tensions and said escalation served no country’s interest. Shehbaz Sharif also expressed “complete solidarity” with Turkiye and Azerbaijan, condemning actions that undermine regional peace and calling for “maximum restraint” and diplomatic engagement. (“Pakistan expresses concern over attacks targeting Turkiye, Azerbaijan during ongoing Middle East conflict,” Dawn, 06 March 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
PTI denied access to Imran as jailed party leaders urge policy rethink
On 05 March, Dawn reported that PTI leaders had been refused a meeting with the detained former Prime Minister Imran Khan at Adiala jail in the city, despite the jail administration agreeing to allow a meeting in accordance with a Supreme Court order after Dawn had submitted the names of six PTI leaders. According to Dawn, the PTI leaders said that they had waited until the end of the jail’s meeting hours without permission. On 05 March, five senior PTI leaders held at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore called on the government to "rethink" its stance on the party and Imran Khan, saying it was in the country’s interests to "change the policy" in light of the instability being seen in the region. They also asked the government to engage in politics, saying that the country would be heavily affected in the event of an ongoing standoff between the state and the opposition. (“Meeting with Imran remains out of reach for PTI; jailed party leaders call on govt to reconsider its approach,” Dawn, 05 March 2026)
SECURITY
Balochistan steps up border response as over 2,000 Pakistanis return from Iran
On 06 March, Dawn reported that over 2,000 Pakistanis, including students, businessmen and 37 diplomat families, were allowed to cross over to Pakistan through the Taftan and Gabad border points as incidents in Iran continued to erupt. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti stated that all Balochistan departments had been put on high alert, and administrative, immigration and security officials had been stationed at the border crossing points around the clock to ensure that the evacuees could return in an orderly and safe manner. “We are assisting the evacuees, providing them with necessary facilitation, food and water and co-ordinating with the federal government so that in case of any emergency, required measures are taken.” (“Balochistan on alert as thousands cross border from Iran,” Dawn, 06 March 2026)
SOCIETY
Report warns of deep learning crisis as education spending stays far below global benchmarks
On 05 March, Dawn reported that a new government report titled Public Financing in Education 2025-26 revealed that 77 per cent of children in Pakistan who are 10 years old cannot read or understand basic texts and that 25.37 million children are out of school - a clear education emergency in terms of access and learning outcomes. According to the report by the Pakistan Institute of Education, the country’s education expenditure has been below the recommended international level of 3.9 per cent of GDP over the last five years and is currently less than two per cent (provisional figure of 0.8 per cent in 2024-25) - far lower than the UNESCO-recommended range of four to six per cent. The report identifies other challenges in the education sector, such as poor foundational learning in literacy and numeracy, the eroding real terms of the education budget in the face of inflation, lack of adequate funding to the special education sector, and inter-provincial disparities. While the nominal increase in the education budget over the years has been high, the effective increase in the purchasing power of the education budget has often been negative. A large part of the country’s education system remains unsustainable and therefore ill-equipped to address the needed improvements in quality, equity and students’ retention. (“77pc of 10-year-olds unable to read and understand simple text, reveals report,” Dawn, 05 March 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Conflict & terrorism
Khurram Husain, “The burdens of war,” Dawn, 05 March 2026
"For many decades now, Pakistan has been investing in a large and expensive military apparatus to fend off external threats to the country. Today, that apparatus faces its supreme test. With the near simultaneous start of conflict in Afghanistan and Iran, the country’s entire western border is now a war zone. Moreover, neither war looks like it will be over soon. With the prospect of protracted conflict on the entire western flank, Pakistan must now take sober stock of its resource position to be able to sustain the burdens that conflict will inevitably bring."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1978517/the-burdens-of-war
Durdana Najam, “Balochistan: beyond the politics of deprivation,” The Express Tribune, 05 March 2026
"Mention Balochistan in any political conversation, and the word "deprivation" almost always follows. For decades, this idea that the province is systematically neglected by Islamabad has shaped how Pakistan imagines the region. It is a powerful narrative: a land rich in natural resources, yet its people remain poor and restless, with their grievances echoing across generations. This story has become so familiar that it is rarely questioned."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2595827/balochistan-beyond-the-politics-of-deprivation
Dr Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, “Terrorism, memory and the politics of simplification,” The Express Tribune, 04 March 2026
"An intense and emotionally charged debate is once again underway over the stance of the Government of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on terrorism, particularly following recent statements by provincial leadership questioning dominant narratives on militancy and cross-border dynamics."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2595650/terrorism-memory-and-the-politics-of-simplification-1
Economy
Editorial, “Economic impact,” Dawn, 05 March 2026
"AS the confrontation between the US-Israel combine and Iran escalates across the Middle East, increasing regional instability is no longer a mere geopolitical concern for Pakistan; it now has tangible implications for its fragile economy."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1978513/economic-impact
Sakib Sherani, “The IMF’s culpability,” Dawn, 05 March 2026
"The mismanagement of Pakistan as a polity by its ruling elite has landed the country in periodic crises. These crises have been as much political as economic. The resulting economic turmoil has necessitated 25 IMF programmes. While Pakistan’s elites are to blame for their recidivist, incorrigible (and extractive) nature, each interaction with the IMF has compounded the country’s structural problems rather than provide a pathway to sustainable growth and development. The latest example is the ongoing programme where the IMF has endorsed the government’s free-spending fiscal profligacy while imposing the burden of adjustment on ordinary Pakistanis. The carte blanche on spending comes on top of repeated forbearance of slippages on structural and institutional reform. In doing so, the Fund has failed its basic duty-of-care responsibility to ordinary citizens of a member country."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1978518/the-imfs-culpability
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