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In Focus
Pakistan offers to host US-Iran talks amid mediation push
The offer was officially announced by PM Shehbaz Sharif as the war in Iran nears the four-week mark
On 25 March, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally offered Islamabad as a venue for potential talks between the United States and Iran, stating Pakistan “stands ready and honoured to be the host” for “meaningful and conclusive” negotiations. The proposal gained traction after US President Donald Trump reposted the message, a move seen as a tacit endorsement from Washington. Officials said Islamabad has been facilitating backchannel contacts, with one source noting the offer was not made lightly but followed sustained diplomatic efforts. Pakistan has also coordinated with regional actors, including Türkiye and Egypt, to promote dialogue and de-escalation.
The report noted that Pakistan’s civil and military leadership has stepped up engagement with both Tehran and Washington. PM Shehbaz, in talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, warned of the “dangerous” trajectory of the conflict and stressed the need for collective diplomacy. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar remained in “constant contact” with Iranian officials, while military leadership also engaged US counterparts. Despite Iran’s public stance rejecting negotiations, officials said messages were exchanged “via friendly countries,” indicating ongoing indirect diplomacy amid deep mistrust.
Meanwhile, the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began in late February, continues to intensify, with sustained strikes and retaliatory actions. Over the last few weeks, Israel's military actions have also targeted Hezbollah in Lebanon. Regional leaders have warned of a “dangerous escalation,” as rising energy prices and economic uncertainty add to fears of a wider conflict. Pakistan has been in contact with countries in the Middle East, especially Saudi Arabia, with whom it signed a comprehensive defence pact last year. ("Islamabad offers to host US-Iran climbdown effort," Dawn, 25 March 2026; "PM Shehbaz says Pakistan ready to host US-Iran talks as FO acknowledges role in de-escalation efforts," The Express Tribune, 24 March 2026)
In Brief
AF-PAK
Pakistani and Afghan Clerics urge extension of Eid ceasefire
On 25 March, Dawn reported that a group of Pakistani and Afghan clerics appealed to authorities on both sides to extend the Eidul Fitr ceasefire until Eidul Azha, calling for sustained efforts toward regional peace and stability. The temporary pause in hostilities was announced by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on 18 March, following requests from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye. It remained in effect from 18-19 March to 23-24 March. Pakistan’s "Operation Ghazab lil-Haq" was launched on 26 February after cross-border firing involving the Afghan Taliban, escalating tensions along the border and raising concerns over broader regional security and diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Kabul.
In a joint statement signed by 11 clerics from both countries, the initiative was described as a sincere and conciliatory effort aimed at resolving tensions through dialogue and cooperation. The clerics emphasised the importance of ensuring a peaceful environment for Hajj pilgrims and urged both governments to prioritise stability over confrontation. They also noted that their peace initiative would go beyond the ceasefire appeal, involving diplomatic and social efforts to find a fair and mutually acceptable resolution to longstanding issues between Pakistan and Afghanistan, to foster lasting harmony, improved relations, and regional stability. ("Clerics from Pakistan, Afghanistan appeal to authorities to extend pause in fighting till Eidul Azha," Dawn; 25 March 2026)
ECONOMY
Pakistan and Iran continue trade despite West Asia conflict
On 25 March, Dawn reported that through the Makran region, Pakistan and Iran continue to trade Iranian oil, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and electricity despite massive attacks by the US and Israel on Iran’s energy infrastructure. Legal trade between the two countries is continuing through Taftan, Gabad 251 Ramdan, Mand, Panjgur, and other crossing points without any restrictions. There has been no reduction in Iranian petrol and diesel supplies. All three districts of Makran division, namely Gwadar, Panjgur, and Turbat, are receiving uninterrupted electricity from the transmission line coming from Iran, as per Qesco. (“Border trade with Iran carries on despite Middle East war,” Dawn 25 March 2026)
Government assures stable fuel supply amid Iran war
On 25 March, Dawn reported that fuel cargo inflows for April had “largely been secured," as per the Finance Ministry. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired a committee meeting to review the energy supply situation and assess developments in global oil and gas markets. It was informed that overall inventories remain at stable levels, supported by secured import arrangements and current production. The committee noted that the federal government is actively evaluating price divergence between international and domestic markets to support balanced and timely policy decisions. The government has already hiked the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel by PKR 55 per litre following the fuel crisis in the country. Subsequently, federal and provincial governments have announced several austerity measures to manage the fuel crisis. (“Pakistan’s petrol cargoes for March and April ‘largely secured’: finance ministry,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
Government likely to "unfreeze" petroleum prices
On 25 March, Dawn reported that the federal government is considering unfreezing prices of petroleum products other than the regular ones, in accordance with global trends. The government has increased rates of jet fuel (JP-1) and kerosene again without any formal announcement. JP-1 prices were raised by PKR 84 per litre, or 21.65 per cent, to PKR 472 from PKR 388 per litre. Altogether, in March, the prices of JP-1 fuel have surged by nearly 150 per cent from PKR 190 per litre. Similarly, kerosene prices increased by PKR 71 per litre, about 20 per cent, to PKR 429 per litre from PKR 358 per litre within a week. Kerosene prices have risen by 127 per cent in March. To maintain stable petrol and diesel prices, the government has diverted funds from development projects and emergency funds for natural disasters. This diversion of funds cannot sustain the freeze on petrol and diesel prices for long. The government is also preparing a proposal for targeted fuel subsidies for two- and three-wheelers. Due to a rise in jet fuel prices, domestic ticket prices have increased by PKR 10,000 to PKR 15,000, while international fares have gone up by PKR 30,000 to PKR 40,000. Since the start of the conflict in West Asia, around 325 flights of Pakistani airlines, including about 200 operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), have also been cancelled. (“Govt may have to ‘unfreeze’ fuel prices amid global surge,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
"Smart lockdown" likely in Sindh amid energy crisis
On 25 March, The Express Tribune reported that the provincial government of Sindh is considering enforcing a lockdown in the coming days following the energy sector crisis due to the West Asia conflict. The Sindh government had already announced several austerity measures, including closing schools, introducing work from home for government employees on Fridays, and suspending all government-funded refreshments in public offices for the next two months. Sindh’s local government minister stated in the media that a large number of government vehicles had been parked and urged the citizens to reduce fuel consumption. (“Smart lockdown under consideration in Sindh amid prolonged Mideast crisis: Local govt minister,” The Express Tribune, 25 March 2026)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan joins UNSC members in opposing annexation of Palestinian Territories
On 25 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan joined seven other United Nations Security Council members in firmly opposing the annexation of any part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the forcible displacement of Palestinians, warning such actions violate international law and undermine peace efforts. Speaking at a joint press stakeout, Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad delivered a statement on behalf of Bahrain, Denmark, France, Greece, Latvia, Somalia and the United Kingdom, reaffirming commitments under UN resolutions, including Resolution 2334. The group condemned Israeli settlement expansion and escalating violence against Palestinian civilians, calling for accountability and an immediate halt to such actions. They also expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation and restrictions in the occupied territories, urging urgent redress. Reiterating support for a two-state solution, members emphasised the need to preserve Jerusalem’s status quo and uphold Palestinian self-determination through lawful and diplomatic means. ("Pakistan joins UNSC in denouncing illegal Israeli settlements," Dawn, 25 March 2026)
FM Dar engages envoys from UK, China and UAE amid Middle East crisis
On 24 March, The Express Tribune reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held separate discussions with senior officials from the United Kingdom, China and the United Arab Emirates as Pakistan intensified diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. According to the Foreign Office, Dar stressed that dialogue and diplomacy, in line with the United Nations Charter, remained the only viable path forward during meetings with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, while reaffirming close strategic cooperation with Beijing. In a telephone call with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, he expressed solidarity following reported casualties, including Pakistani nationals. Separately, officials reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to discreet diplomatic engagement, cautioning against media speculation that could undermine sensitive negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and promoting regional stability. ("Dar speaks with UK, China and UAE as US-Iran diplomacy ramps up," The Express Tribune, 24 March 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
PTI slams denial of Imran’s jail meetings
On 24 March, Dawn reported that sisters of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan were once again denied permission to meet him at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail, prompting the party to term the continued restrictions a “blatant violation” of constitutional and human rights. Despite Islamabad High Court orders allowing biweekly meetings, access has remained limited, with his last reported visit occurring in February following Supreme Court intervention. Concerns over Khan’s health have intensified after reports of partial vision loss and ongoing eye treatment, with his family demanding transfer to Shifa International Hospital and access to personal doctors. PTI criticised his alleged prolonged solitary confinement as a breach of international standards, including UN rules. Meanwhile, party leaders called for judicial enforcement of orders and outlined plans for a coordinated political movement to secure his release, stressing accountability, public mobilisation and legal advocacy. ("PTI decries ‘blatant violation of rights’ as Imran’s sisters again barred from meeting him at Adiala jail," Dawn, 24 March 2026)
Achakzai proposes formation of national government amid regional tensions
On 25 March, Dawn reported that Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai called for the formation of a national government for one to two years to address Pakistan’s worsening situation amid rising regional tensions linked to the Iran-US-Israel conflict. Speaking at a public gathering in Pishin, he urged political parties to unite and emphasised the need for democratic stability, constitutional supremacy and parliamentary sovereignty. Achakzai also proposed that the United Nations convene a regional conference involving Pakistan, Afghanistan and neighbouring states to ensure mutual non-interference. Criticising the 2024 general elections as flawed, he reiterated support for Imran Khan and demanded his release, while calling for an independent election commission under international guarantees. He further urged political and religious leaders to unite for civilian supremacy, stressed institutional adherence to constitutional limits, and demanded reversal of recent constitutional amendments and greater rights over local resources. ("Achakzai calls for national government to deal with regional crisis," Dawn, 25 March 2026)
SECURITY
CERT warns of cyber threats to critical infrastructure
On 24 March, Dawn reported that the National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) issued a cybersecurity advisory cautioning that hostile actors could exploit supply chains to infiltrate Pakistan’s critical infrastructure, including power, banking and defence systems. The advisory warned that even minor lapses in hardware or software delivery could trigger large-scale disruptions, highlighting risks from unverified updates and vendors with unclear ownership. CERT urged institutions to adopt strict inspection protocols, diversify suppliers, and implement zero-trust security models to prevent hidden backdoors and systemic vulnerabilities. It also directed organisations to report suspicious digital activity and use tamper-proof tracking for sensitive equipment. The warning comes amid rising global concern over supply chain cyber threats and follows recent coordinated attacks on Pakistani media platforms and the Pak-Sat system, underscoring the need for stronger cybersecurity measures as the country’s digital infrastructure expands. ("CERT warns ‘hostile actors’ could exploit supply chains to target national infrastructure," Dawn, 24 March 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
War & geopolitics
Hammad Rohila, “Hormuz and the limits of open navigation,” The Express Tribune, 25 March 2026
"The Strait of Hormuz has once again moved from geography to law. The Strait carries nearly one-fifth of global energy supplies. Its legal status is well established. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, it qualifies as an international strait governed by the regime of transit passage. Ships and aircraft are entitled to continuous and expeditious passage, and that right cannot be suspended or impeded. Even earlier law recognised that such straits could not be closed. On paper, the position is clear. The Strait cannot be lawfully shut. Yet the present moment illustrates a different difficulty."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2599059/hormuz-and-the-limits-of-open-navigation
Editorial, “Diplomatic off-ramp,” Dawn, 25 March 2026
"The international community appeared to let out a sigh of relief when US President Donald Trump pulled away on Monday from his threat to bomb Iranian energy facilities unless Tehran reopened the Strait of Hormuz. There was a remarkable change in Mr Trump’s tone as he claimed that “productive” talks were taking place with Iran. Tehran downplayed the matter, simply saying that Washington’s messages had been received."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985109/diplomatic-off-ramp
Terrorism
Editorial, “Terror listing,” Dawn, 24 March 2026
"Few will disagree that terrorism has witnessed a major resurgence in Pakistan, especially after the Afghan Taliban swept into Kabul in 2021. Just how destructive the latest wave of terrorist violence, mainly driven by the banned TTP, has been is reflected in the latest ranking of the Global Terrorism Index 2026, which has placed Pakistan at the top of the list of countries affected by such violence. Last year, the country ranked second. Most of the index’s findings, published by the Australia-based Institute for Economics and Peace, mirror those of UN as well as Pakistani monitors. While the data contains few surprises, the findings are nevertheless cause for concern, and place a question mark over Pakistan’s counterterrorism strategy."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1984786/terror-listing
Editorial, “Top terror victim,” The Express Tribune, 24 March 2026
"Topping the Global Terrorism Index is not a distinction any country seeks, but it is one that Pakistan must now confront with full honesty. The Institute for Economics and Peace has ranked this country first among 163 nations, above active war zones, above states in open collapse."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2598864/top-terror-victim
Economy
Mohamed Yahya, “Energy security,” Dawn, 25 March 2026
"Energy security is now national security for Pakistan. The war in the Middle East has made that clear. A conflict beyond our borders now threatens the shipments, foreign exchange stability and remittance flows that underpin Pakistan’s economy. For a country heavily dependent on imported energy, the risks are immediate."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985112/energy-security
Air pollution
Editorial, “Killer air,” The Express Tribune, 25 March 2026
"Pakistan's air has turned into a slow, invisible killer. The latest report by IQAir ranks Pakistan as the world's most smog-affected country in 2025, with PM2.5 levels soaring up to thirteen times beyond the limits set by WHO. These fine particles enter the lungs and bloodstream, quietly driving up cases of respiratory illness and heart diseases."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2599061/killer-air
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