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Afghanistan-Pakistan War update
Operation Ghazab Lil Haq resumes after Eid pause
Pakistan resumes cross-border operation after Eid truce, vows action until “objectives achieved”
On 25 March, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan resumed “Operation Ghazab Lil Haq” after a temporary pause during Eidul Fitr, with security sources confirming that the suspension ended at midnight between March 23 and 24. The pause had been announced earlier by Information. Minister Attaullah Tarar at the request of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Türkiye. Officials described the renewed campaign as a “precise and targeted military operation” aimed at dismantling terrorist leadership, logistics networks and facilitators operating from areas under Afghan Taliban control. “Operations will continue until the objectives are achieved,” sources said, urging Kabul to reconsider what they termed its support for militant proxies.
The operation, launched last month following border clashes, comes amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Fighting intensified after Afghan Taliban forces allegedly fired on multiple locations, prompting retaliatory strikes by Pakistan. This followed Pakistani airstrikes on alleged terrorist hideouts across the border the weekend before. Islamabad has long accused the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of operating from Afghan territory - a claim Kabul denies. The latest hostilities follow a year of tit-for-tat actions, including air strikes, cross-border shelling and attacks such as a suicide bombing in Islamabad. Previous escalations in October 2025 led to casualties, infrastructure damage and the temporary suspension of trade after key border crossings were closed. (“Operation Ghazab Lil Haq against Afghan Taliban resumes after Eidul Fitr pause,” The Express Tribune, 25 March 2026)
US-Iran War and Pakistan
Türkiye or Pakistan could host US-Iran talks, says Iranian official
Malaysia PM welcomes "timely offer"; Washington symposium highlights Pakistan's growing diplomatic role
On 25 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan emerged as a potential mediator in the escalating US-Iran conflict, with a senior Iranian official telling Reuters that Islamabad or Ankara could host talks to de-escalate tensions. The development came as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally offered to facilitate dialogue, while backchannel diplomacy intensified. Although Tehran later “responded negatively” to a US proposal, officials suggested space for negotiations remained. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomed Pakistan’s “timely and constructive offer,” urging both sides to engage seriously. “That space should be treated with the seriousness it deserves,” he said. Pakistan’s outreach follows extensive diplomatic contacts involving Washington, Tehran and regional allies amid fears of further escalation in the Gulf.
Meanwhile, a symposium in Washington highlighted Pakistan’s mediation effort as a sign of growing diplomatic confidence and strategic relevance. Hosted by the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, speakers noted Islamabad’s “stabilising role” in a volatile region and emphasised its geopolitical importance. Pakistan’s ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, said the country remained committed to promoting international peace, citing its history of facilitation in global diplomacy. Participants argued that Pakistan’s role should be viewed beyond a narrow security lens, pointing to its economic potential and regional connectivity. They stressed that sustained engagement with the United States must move beyond crisis-driven cooperation toward trade, investment and long-term institutional partnerships. (“Pakistan has conveyed US proposal; Turkiye or Pakistan could host talks, senior Iranian official says,” Dawn, 25 March 2026; “Pakistan’s mediation offer reflects growing diplomatic confidence, Capitol Hill symposium told,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Islamabad establishes sixth custom station along Pakistan-Iran border
On 26 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan has established a new customs station at Jeerak in Panjgur district, Balochistan, along the Pakistan-Iran border. This decision aimed at strengthening border trade management and improving documentation of cross-border flows. This will help in smooth passenger movement, regulate personal baggage, and channel informal trade into the formal economy. Jeerak has been designated as the fifth official crossing for trade and transit between Pakistan and Iran. In December 2024, the government also inaugurated the Gabd-Rimdan Border Crossing near Gwadar to improve connectivity and facilitate people-to-people exchanges. (“Islamabad strengthens trade links with Tehran,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
Special committee approves 40 food items for export to Gulf countries
On 25 March, Dawn reported that while chairing a high-level meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised the need to prepare a comprehensive plan to expand flight operations at Karachi and Gwadar airports and enhance port efficiency in view of the evolving regional conflict. He also directed authorities to accelerate the export of surplus food items to Gulf countries while ensuring an uninterrupted domestic supply. He was informed that a special committee had approved 40 food items, including rice, edible oil, sugar, meat, poultry, powdered milk, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, for exporting to Gulf countries. (“PM Shehbaz tells authorities to expedite export of surplus food items to Gulf countries,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
Federal govt eyes financial support from provinces in maintaining fuel prices
On 26 March, Dawn reported that the Centre approached the provincial governments of Punjab and Sindh to share the additional cost of higher international fuel prices in a bid to avoid a hike in prices of essential petroleum products in Pakistan. The provincial government will revert after internal consultations on the availability of fiscal space. The federal government also asked the provincial government to ramp up Centre-proposed austerity measures and energy and fuel conservation efforts. The extent of cooperation from the provinces would determine petroleum pricing in the coming days. Fiscal pressure is mounting on the federal government, as the Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has been provided with the first tranche of PKR 27 billion from the Prime Minister’s Austerity Fund. This amount was provided to ORGA to settle the price differential claims (PDCs) arising from the Government’s decision to shield consumers from the impact of rising oil prices in the international market. (“Centre asks provinces to help shoulder fuel price burden,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
EXTERNAL
PM Shehbaz lauds Saudi "restraint", urges de-escalation in Middle East
On 25 March, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Saudi Arabia’s “remarkable restraint” during ongoing Middle East hostilities in a phone call with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the conversation was “warm and cordial,” with Shehbaz reaffirming Pakistan’s “complete solidarity and unequivocal support” for the kingdom following recent attacks. He called for an immediate end to hostilities and stressed the need for “unity and harmony in the ranks of the Ummah.” The premier also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach aimed at de-escalation and dialogue. The crown prince appreciated Pakistan’s peace efforts, with both leaders agreeing to maintain close coordination. The exchange comes amid rising regional tensions triggered by Iran’s retaliatory strikes and Pakistan’s efforts to mediate between Washington and Tehran. (“PM Shehbaz hails Saudi Arabia’s ‘restraint’, stresses urgent need for de-escalation of ongoing Iran war,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
IOM reports rise in Iran-Pakistan crossings, no refugee influx
On 26 March, Dawn reported that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) observed a notable increase in crossings from Iran into Pakistan by mid-March, driven largely by returning Pakistani nationals and Iranian traders. In its report titled “Regional Iran Escalation Mobility Monitoring”, the agency stated that “no movements into Pakistan have emerged that could be viewed as refugee inflows,” emphasising that all Iranian arrivals held valid documents or local passes. Between 1 and 16 March, a total of 6,726 individuals entered Pakistan, with 80pc crossing via the Taftan-Mirjaveh border. “Most of those entering Pakistan… are Pakistani returnees or individuals holding valid passports, visas and/or trader licences,” the report noted. It also recorded 21 third-country nationals, including individuals from Tanzania, Oman, the UK, Canada, China, and Afghanistan. (“International Organisation for Migration records surge in crossings from Iran to Pakistan,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
PM Shehbaz, Chinese envoy discuss economic ties, CPEC cooperation
On March 26, The Express Tribune reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong to discuss bilateral economic cooperation and progress on key projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The premier congratulated Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping, on the successful conclusion of the “Two Sessions,” while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to advancing CPEC 2.0, particularly in agriculture, industrial cooperation and infrastructure. Ambassador Jiang appreciated Pakistan’s reform efforts and pledged continued support in trade and investment. Both sides expressed satisfaction with growing ties and looked ahead to marking 75 years of diplomatic relations through high-level engagements. PM Shehbaz also underscored Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability, reaffirming the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” and the importance of close coordination on issues of mutual interest. (“PM Shehbaz, Chinese envoy discuss CPEC, economic ties,” The Express Tribune, 26 March 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
PILDAT urges regular NSC meetings, calls for stronger role
On 26 March, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) called for institutionalising Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) as a regular forum for civil-military consultation, recommending monthly meetings to review domestic and international security developments. In its annual review covering the second year of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s term, PILDAT noted that the NSC met only three times and remained “episodic and reactive,” largely convened during crises. It stressed the need to strengthen the national security division’s analytical and coordination capacity for “evidence-based analysis and long-term strategic planning.” The report also highlighted that the National Security Policy (2022–2026) has not been updated. “It is also critical to reaffirm the NSC as Pakistan’s principal platform for strategic decision-making,” it said, warning that irregular use undermines effective security governance. (“Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development for regular civil-military consultations at National Security Committee level,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
National Party’s Malik Baloch calls for dialogue to address Balochistan unrest
On March 26, Dawn reported that Abdul Malik Baloch, president of the National Party, stressed that meaningful dialogue was essential for lasting peace and stability in Balochistan amid worsening unrest. Speaking at a public gathering in Quetta, he urged political parties to press the government for the recovery of missing persons, warning that the situation was “deteriorating with the passage of time.” He reiterated that his party would not compromise on democratic freedoms, stating that “coercion or force would never be accepted” and that governance must remain with elected representatives. Criticising past electoral practices, he claimed public mandates were manipulated through rigging. On regional issues, he condemned US and Israeli actions against Iran and called for disputes, including those between Pakistan and Afghanistan, to be resolved through dialogue. (“Meaningful talks must for Balochistan peace: National Party chief,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
Imran Khan's son raises detention concerns at UNHRC
On 25 March, Dawn reported that PTI founder Imran Khan’s son, Kasim Khan, raised concerns over the treatment of his father at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), alleging violations of international human rights conventions. Addressing a session, he said his father’s case was not an “isolated incident” but “the most visible example of a much wider pattern of repression in Pakistan since 2022.” He cited restrictions on family visits, denial of medical care, and alleged solitary confinement, calling the detention “arbitrary.” Kasim also linked the case to Pakistan’s obligations under global human rights treaties. “We cannot stand by as his health deteriorates,” he said, adding that denying children access to their imprisoned father amounted to “collective punishment.” The government has denied such allegations, amid ongoing political tensions and debate over Imran’s medical treatment. (“Imran’s son Kasim raises father’s case at UNHRC, decries his treatment in jail,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
SECURITY
Punjab deports over 33,000 illegal foreigners in ongoing drive
On 26 March, Dawn reported that Punjab police said more than 33,000 illegal foreign nationals, including Afghans, had been deported from the province as part of an ongoing repatriation drive. According to a police spokesperson, the process was continuing across Punjab, including Lahore, with 349 individuals currently held at various holding points. Of those deported, 12,565 were men, 6,695 were women, and 13,760 were children. The figures included 10,505 individuals with proof of residence, 11,100 Afghan Citizen Card holders and 11,416 illegal foreign nationals. Punjab Inspector General of Police Abdul Kareem said security had been placed on high alert and that the repatriation process was being conducted “in accordance with international laws,” ensuring that “human rights are being fully observed.” (“‘33,000 illegal foreigners deported from Punjab’: Punjab police,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
CTD kills two "most-wanted" TTP militants in Tank operation
On 25 March, Dawn reported that the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) killed two “most-wanted terrorists” affiliated with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) during an intelligence-based operation in Tank district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to a CTD press release, the suspects opened fire on security personnel within the limits of Gomal police station, triggering an exchange of gunfire that lasted around 40 minutes. “Two terrorists were found dead” during a subsequent search operation, with Kalashnikovs, magazines and bandoliers recovered from their possession. The militants, linked to the TTP’s Mushtaq group, were allegedly involved in multiple attacks on police, including killings, abductions and IED strikes, as well as an attack on a judges’ convoy in Lakki Marwat in August 2024. KP Inspector General Zulfiqar Hameed praised the operation, vowing continued efforts to “eradicate terrorism” amid rising violence in the province. (“2 ‘most-wanted terrorists’ killed in Tank operation: CTD,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
ENVIRONMENT
Study warns climate change could sharply raise deaths in Pakistan by 2050
On 25 March, Dawn reported that a study by the Climate Impact Lab projected Pakistan could see a net increase of 51 deaths per 100,000 people by 2050 due to rising temperatures driven by fossil fuel emissions. The research warned that low- and middle-income countries would account for 90pc of climate-related deaths, with Pakistan among the hardest hit. “Ten times more people are projected to die each year in lower-income countries,” the study noted, highlighting stark inequality. Cities like Faisalabad could see an additional 9,400 deaths annually, while several major Pakistani urban centres ranked among the most vulnerable globally. The report cautioned that heat-related deaths may exceed current fatalities from diseases like tuberculosis and stroke. Experts stressed that limited adaptation funding and weak planning could worsen the crisis, urging urgent investment and policy action to mitigate risks. (“Pakistan’s cities to account for most heat-related deaths by 2050,” Dawn, 25 March 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
War & geopolitics
Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, “War and climate resilience,” Dawn, 26 March 2026
"The US-Israeli war on Iran is accelerating crises that combine climate-driven shocks and military destruction. It is reshaping how governments frame climate resilience and national security. It has fundamentally changed the global climate debate, moving it from a discussion of long-term transition to one of immediate survival and energy, water, food and ecosystem security."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985458/war-and-climate-resilience
Inam Ul Haque, “Hormuz — alternatives and peace,” The Express Tribune, 26 March 2026
"Aside from Iran's de-nuclearisation, the other objectives of war set by the US-Israel Coalition (complete de-missilefication, regime change and military surrender) are not possible without boots on the ground, which in itself is a risky proposition."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2599272/hormuz-alternatives-and-peace
Climate change
Editorial, “Consequence of climate inaction,” The Express Tribune, 26 March 2026
"A new UN report dealing with the weather and climate change has underscored that for Pakistan, the climate crisis is not an abstract future threat, but a present reality. The World Meteorological Organisation's latest State of the Global Climate report paints a dire picture, confirming that the decade from 2015 to 2025 was the hottest on record, with oceans reaching unprecedented heat levels for nine years on the trot."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2599270/consequence-of-climate-inaction
Economy
Syed Sheheryar Raza Zaidi, “Two-nation theory,” Dawn, 26 March 2026
"As the Trump regime plays the world’s self-appointed policeman, killing and abducting world leaders and destroying countries, the people of Pakistan face another enemy — one that continues to harass and destroy lives and livelihoods each day. As a nation constantly hopping from one IMF programme to another, it is no surprise that Pakistanis face abject poverty as their worst enemy."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985454/two-nation-theory
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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