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Afghanistan-Pakistan War update
Pakistan resumes Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, Foreign Office confirms
Deportation of illegal Afghan nationals resumes at Torkham; TTP chief being sheltered in Kabul, security sources say
On 26 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan resumed Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against militant targets inside Afghanistan after a temporary Eidul Fitr pause ended, with officials stating the campaign would continue until its objectives were achieved. The Foreign Office described the operation as a precise effort targeting terrorist leadership, infrastructure and facilitators, while urging the Afghan Taliban to reconsider alleged support for militant groups. The pause, observed at the request of several Islamic countries, had briefly reduced hostilities, with both sides halting operations. However, officials maintained that Islamabad’s concerns over cross-border militancy, particularly linked to the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), remained unaddressed, reinforcing the need for continued action. The Associated Press reported yesterday that Pakistan fired several rounds of artillery shells in the Narai and Sarkano districts, injuring several people. It also reported that Afghanistan retaliated against the attack, with a local Pakistani official claiming the exchange was started by the Afghan side.
Meanwhile, authorities resumed deportation of undocumented Afghan nationals through the Torkham border following its reopening after weeks of closure due to clashes. Strict security measures, including curfews and controlled transit procedures, were enforced as part of the repatriation process under the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP). Separately, The News International reported about security sources claiming that TTP chief Noor Wali Mehsud was being sheltered in Kabul’s high-security Green Zone, raising alarm over alleged militant safe havens. Officials described the development as deeply concerning, highlighting broader tensions between Islamabad and Kabul amid rising violence and ongoing diplomatic strain. (“Temporary pause in Operation Ghazab lil-Haq has concluded, FO says,” Dawn, 26 March 2026; “Repatriation of Afghans via Torkham resumes,” Dawn, 27 March 2026; “TTP chief hiding in Kabul’s diplomatic enclave: sources,” The News International, 27 March 2026)
US-Iran War and Pakistan
Pakistan relaying messages between US & Iran, FM Dar confirms
Indirect diplomacy intensifies as Pakistan relays US-Iran messages; Fourth Pakistani national killed in UAE due to falling debris
On 26 March, The Express Tribune reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed indirect communication between the United States and Iran was ongoing through messages relayed by Pakistan, with support from Türkiye and Egypt. He clarified that the engagement did not constitute formal negotiations but involved the exchange of proposals and responses via intermediaries, including a reported set of US points under Iranian review. “There has been unnecessary speculation in the media regarding peace talks to end ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan,” he wrote on X. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to promoting dialogue and de-escalation, while also engaging regional partners such as Jordan and Türkiye to coordinate diplomatic efforts. Iranian officials similarly denied direct talks, describing the process as a series of message exchanges, even as conflicting claims emerged from Washington about Tehran’s willingness to reach an agreement.
Meanwhile, Dawn reported that another Pakistani national was killed in Abu Dhabi due to falling debris from a missile interception, bringing the total death toll of Pakistanis in such incidents in the UAE to four. Authorities reported multiple casualties of different nationalities and urged reliance on official information. Pakistan’s embassy expressed condolences and pledged support to the bereaved family while coordinating repatriation efforts. (“Pakistan relaying messages in US-Iran indirect talks: FM Dar,” The Express Tribune, 26 March 2026; “4th Pakistani national killed in UAE due to ‘falling debris’ from missile interception,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
IMF-Pakistan talks advance as key document shared
On 27 March, The News International reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) outlined the major contours of the next budget for 2026-27. As the government had recently moved from reviewing prices fortnightly to weekly adjustments, the IMF also reiterated the need for frequent adjustments in oil prices. Pakistan and the IMF have exchanged drafts of the Memorandum of Economic and Financial Policies (MEFP) to reach a staff-level agreement for the third review and the release of the fourth tranche under the USD seven billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and USD 1.4 billion under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). ("IMF shares key document with govt paving way for accord," The News International, 27 March 2026)
World Bank emerges as top multilateral lender for Pakistan
On 27 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan's foreign inflows, including both loans and grants, amounted to USD 5.86 billion in the first eight months of FY26, up from USD 4.95 billion last year. Including IMF disbursements, total foreign assistance inflows to Pakistan increased 18.38 per cent to USD 5.86 billion in July-February 2025-26. The target for total foreign inflows for FY26 is USD 19.9 billion, up from USD 19.4 billion last year. Combined inflows from bilateral and multilateral lenders amounted to USD 3.4 billion, against an annual target of USD 6.4 billion. Last year, USD 2.172 billion was received, short of the yearly target of USD 5.05 billion. The World Bank emerged as the top multilateral lender, disbursing USD 1.073 billion, up from USD 860 million last year, a 25 per cent increase. Inflows from overseas Pakistanis also rose to USD 1.77billion, up from USD 1.3billion, largely in the form of Naya Pakistan Certificates. (“Foreign loan inflows rise to $5.77 bn,” Dawn, 27 March 2026)
Monetary expansion grows by 4.5 per cent
On 27 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan's economy witnessed a 4.5 per cent growth in monetary expansion in the first eight months of FY26, ending with PKR 1,804.3 billion. It reflects the doubling of government borrowing and excess liquidity in the banking system during the period. In the same period in the last fiscal year, there was stagnant growth of 0.5 per cent, or PKR 180 billion. This shows a robust growth in Monetary expansion; however, the rise in fuel prices due to the West Asia crisis will impact the inflation and overall economy in the coming days. (“Monetary expansion surges 4.5 pc,” Dawn, 27 March 2026)
Omani envoy supports Pakistan's efforts to diversify oil supply
On 26 March, Dawn reported that Oman's envoy to Pakistan, Fahad Bin Sulaiman Bin Khalaf Alkharusi, welcomed Pakistan’s push towards diversification and assured that Islamabad’s request for preferential energy cargoes would be “considered favourably”. The development comes following a meeting between Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and the Omani envoy to Pakistan. During the meeting, the two discussed the evolving energy situation in the region and avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. (“Request for preferential energy cargoes will be ‘considered favourably’, Oman envoy assures petroleum minister,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
EXTERNAL
PM Shehbaz engages Chinese Ambassador, Malaysian PM on Middle East crisis
On 27 March, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting de-escalation in the Middle East during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zedong in Islamabad. He referenced Pakistan’s recent diplomatic coordination with Turkiye and Egypt, which officials said helped secure a five-day pause in potential US strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. The Chinese envoy praised Pakistan’s economic resilience and reaffirmed Beijing’s continued support, particularly in trade and investment. At the same time, both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing CPEC 2.0 with a focus on agriculture, industry, and infrastructure. Separately, Shehbaz briefed Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Pakistan’s mediation efforts with Iran, Gulf states, and the US, receiving strong backing for Islamabad’s role in easing tensions. Both leaders emphasised continued engagement to support regional stability and avoid further escalation. (“PM Shehbaz highlights Pakistan’s role in Middle East de-escalation in meeting with Chinese envoy,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
MQM-P proposes 28th amendment to strengthen local governments
On 27 March, The Express Tribune reported that the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) proposed a 28th constitutional amendment aimed at strengthening local governments under Article 140-A during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Karachi. Led by Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, the MQM-P delegation urged swift progress on the proposal, with the premier agreeing to further consultations next week. The discussions reflected both cooperation and tensions, as MQM-P pressed for expediting the Karachi development package while raising concerns over decisions taken without its input, including the Sindh governorship. The government also moved to improve coordination, tasking Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar with overseeing a committee to enhance ties between PML-N and MQM-P. Both sides emphasised bridging gaps with the PPP-led Sindh government and ensuring MQM-P’s inclusion in key policy decisions, while reaffirming the need for an empowered local government system in urban Sindh. (“Dar to head panel to bridge differences as MQM-P leadership meets PM in Karachi,” The Express Tribune, 27 March 2026)
PTI rejects claims of Imran’s son undermining GSP+ status
On 27 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the opposition alliance Tehreek-i-Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP) rejected government allegations that they were attempting to sabotage Pakistan’s European Union GSP+ trade status. The controversy stemmed from remarks by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Punjab’s Azma Bokhari, who accused former prime minister Imran Khan’s son Kasim Khan and party leader Zulfi Bukhari of actions detrimental to the scheme. However, a fact-check by iVerify found claims that Kasim had called for the suspension of GSP+ at a UN Human Rights Council event to be false, noting the circulated footage was from a separate sideline event. PTI leaders defended Kasim’s speech as focused on his father’s health and denied any anti-state intent, while criticising the government for politicising the issue. The party also condemned the arrest of Punjab organiser Aliya Hamza Malik, terming the cases against her baseless. (“Ministers see ‘conspiracy’ against GSP+ behind Kasim’s UN speech,” Dawn, 27 March 2026)
President Zardari, PM Shehbaz urge unity amid regional tensions
On 26 March, Dawn reported that President Asif Ali Zardari chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad, emphasising national consensus and institutional coordination in response to emerging regional challenges linked to the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran. The meeting, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, reviewed the broader regional situation and its implications for Pakistan’s security, economy and food stability. Participants agreed on the need for a coordinated national response, aligning economic management, energy planning and security priorities to maintain stability. The discussion also focused on rising global oil prices and supply constraints, with ministers briefing on measures to manage inflation and ensure energy security through fiscal discipline and price stabilisation efforts. The leadership further highlighted the importance of public awareness to curb fuel consumption, promote public transport and adopt shared mobility practices to ease economic pressure. (“High-level meeting chaired by president stresses national consensus, institutional coordination amid regional volatility,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
SECURITY
School destroyed in blast as security alert issued in KP’s Bannu
On 26 March, Dawn reported that a government primary school in Bannu’s Ghora village was destroyed in a powerful explosion, with authorities suspecting the involvement of unidentified militants. The blast targeted Government Primary School Noor Jan in the Baka Khel area, reducing the structure to rubble, while police suggested - without official confirmation - that militants may have been preparing an improvised explosive device inside the building when it detonated. Meanwhile, security forces issued a high alert across Bannu following reports of a suspected suicide bomber, with Bannu Police Lines considered a potential target. Key roads were sealed, and security was tightened as law enforcement agencies monitored the situation closely. The incident comes amid a broader surge in violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, raising concerns among residents, particularly as a planned peace march in the area approaches. (“Unidentified attackers blow up government school in KP’s Bannu,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)
JUDICIARY
FCC asserts supremacy over Supreme Court precedents
On 27 March, Dawn reported that the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) clarified it was not unconditionally bound by Supreme Court judgements, asserting its position as the final authority in constitutional matters under the revised framework introduced by the 27th Amendment. In a ruling upholding the validity of a marriage between a Christian woman and a Muslim man, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi explained that Article 189 must now be interpreted in light of the FCC’s establishment, placing its decisions above all other courts, including the Supreme Court. The judgment emphasised that while past Supreme Court rulings retain persuasive value, they are no longer binding on the FCC. It reaffirmed that judicial precedent stems from constitutional hierarchy rather than institutional seniority, with the FCC empowered to depart from earlier rulings where they conflict with constitutional text, fundamental rights or evolving democratic values, while maintaining principled and reasoned continuity. (“Federal Constitutional Court asserts it is not bound by Supreme Court rulings,” Dawn, 27 March 2026)
ON INDIA
Pakistan rebukes Jaishankar over "undiplomatic" remarks
On 27 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s Foreign Office criticised Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for using what it termed “undiplomatic” language regarding Islamabad’s role in mediating indirect talks between Iran and the United States. Responding to his remarks, the Foreign Office said such rhetoric reflected frustration and stressed that Pakistan’s approach remained grounded in restraint and decorum. The comments came amid political debate in India, where opposition Indian National Congress leaders also criticised the Modi government, calling Pakistan’s emerging mediating role a setback for Indian diplomacy. Congress figures argued that New Delhi’s regional outreach had faltered, while questioning inconsistencies in India’s stance on mediation in global conflicts. Meanwhile, the Indian government defended its position, stating its priority was safeguarding its diaspora and energy interests, even as opposition parties demanded a broader parliamentary debate on the evolving West Asia crisis. (“Jaishankar’s crude remarks ‘driven by frustration’, says FO,” Dawn, 27 March 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
War & geopolitics
Hassan Aslam Shad, “New dawn in the Gulf,” Dawn, 27 March 2026
"In a significant shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics, a quadrilateral meeting was convened in Riyadh on March 19 on the sidelines of the consultative meeting of foreign ministers of Islamic countries to discuss Iranian attacks on Gulf countries. This quadrilateral meeting was held between the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Turkiye, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Steered by Ankara, this meeting explored a quadruple alliance between Pakistan, Egypt, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia — a proverbial ‘Green Nato’ designed to retire the era of external dependency. This quartet represents more than a mere diplomatic overture. It could be the shattering of the Western aegis and the coming of age of an indomitable security architecture in the region."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985692/new-dawn-in-the-gulf
Editorial, “War on Lebanon,” Dawn, 27 March 2026
"While most of the world’s attention is fixated on the Gulf, where the US-Israeli war on Iran continues, another destructive conflict is underway in the region: the brutal Israeli war on Lebanon. The most recent hostilities began when pro-Iran Lebanese armed group Hezbollah started striking Israel on March 2. However, the truth is that the Zionist state had been violating Lebanese sovereignty repeatedly since the November 2024 ceasefire. The UN has listed thousands of Israeli truce violations. Simply put, Lebanon was a volcano waiting to erupt, thanks to Tel Aviv’s provocative behaviour and penchant for aggression."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985695/war-on-lebanon
Climate change
Faisal Bari, “Limiting screen time,” Dawn, 27 March 2026
"Computers, mobile phones and the internet are tremendous channels for learning and interaction, but, and there is plenty of evidence about this now, they also have a strong negative impact on learning and children’s mental health. Many countries are trying to limit the use of computers and social media for young people to ensure the positive remains but the negative is curtailed. One way of doing this is to engage young people in physical and other activities, not only to ensure their well-being but also to limit the overuse of screens and social media. But structuring physical activity and sports/ skill clubs in today’s changed environment is difficult. We need innovation in schools and communities to create spaces that allow us opportunities for gainfully engaging young people."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1985693/limiting-screen-time
The Middle East crisis and Pakistan
Ziad Bashir, “Time to hold the line,” The News International, 27 March 2026
"Pakistan cannot control global events. It cannot control oil prices or geopolitical tensions. But it can control how it responds. Staying measured, targeted and focused while protecting the most vulnerable, protecting exports, preserving employment and keeping the economy moving will define the outcome."
https://www.thenews.pk/print/1406444-time-to-hold-the-line
Pakistan-Afghanistan
Dr Raashid Wali Janjua, “Ghazab Lil Haq,” The News International, 27 March 2026
"The temporary Eid pause was a good confidence-building gesture by Pakistan. There should be no quarters given, however, to the TTP leadership, even if they lie ensconced in the comfort of Kabul Green Zone, which must feel the inexorable heat of Operation Ghazab Lil Haq."
https://www.thenews.pk/print/1406446-ghazab-lil-haq
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