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In Focus
US awards F-16 radar support contract to Pakistan
USD 488 million contract follows upgrade package notified by US in 2025 aimed at modernising Pakistan’s F-16 fleet
On 02 May, Dawn reported that the United States Air Force awarded a USD 488 million contract to Northrop Grumman for long-term engineering and technical support of F-16 radar systems, with Pakistan among the partner nations included. The contract, covering APG-66 and APG-68 radar systems, will run through March 2036 under the Foreign Military Sales programme and includes multiple allied countries. Initial funding of USD 2.64 million has been allocated, with work to be carried out in Maryland. Officials said the arrangement reflects the continued US commitment to maintaining operational readiness of F-16 fleets across partner air forces.
The development follows a separate USD 686 million upgrade package notified in 2025 by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency, aimed at modernising Pakistan’s F-16 fleet with advanced avionics, secure communications and interoperability systems. The package, led by Lockheed Martin, is expected to extend the aircraft’s service life to 2040 while enhancing counterterrorism cooperation and joint operational capabilities. Officials said Pakistan has welcomed continued US support, noting that upgrades would help sustain existing capabilities even as the country diversifies its broader air force fleet. (“US awards F-16 upgrade contract for Pakistan, other states,” Dawn, 02 May 2026)
Pakistan-Afghanistan clashes
13 TTP militants killed in border clashes
Nine civilians killed in cross-border attacks since February; Info Minister Tarar says militants increasingly targeting civilians
On 02 May, Dawn and The News International reported that Pakistan’s military killed 13 militants linked to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan in two foiled infiltration attempts along the Pak-Afghan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Eight militants were killed in Mohmand and five in North Waziristan, as security forces repelled incursions from across the border. The military reiterated concerns over the Afghan Taliban failing to prevent the use of Afghan soil for attacks. The operations are part of Pakistan’s ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, launched in February amid rising cross-border violence and militant infiltration.
Separately, officials in Bajaur reported that at least nine civilians, including women and children, have been killed in cross-border attacks since February, with more than a dozen injured and homes destroyed. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemned the attacks as deliberate targeting of civilians, while rejecting Afghan claims that Pakistan was responsible for strikes inside Afghanistan. Authorities say militants have increasingly targeted civilian areas following setbacks against security forces, raising concerns over escalating tensions along the border. (“13 terrorists killed as bids to infiltrate Pak-Afghan border in KP foiled: ISPR,” Dawn, 30 April 2026; “Afghan Taliban targeting civilians in KP border areas after ‘battlefield losses’: Tarar,” The News International, 02 May 2026; “Afghan Taliban attacks martyred nine, injured 12 in Bajaur since February: DC,” 30 April 2026)
Islamabad Talks
Pakistan continues diplomacy as Trump rejects Iran’s latest proposal
“The clock on diplomacy has not stopped”, says FO; Strait of Hormuz and nuclear issue remain major sticking points
On 02 May, Dawn reported that US President Donald Trump said he was not satisfied with a fresh Iranian proposal to end the Middle East conflict, conveyed to Washington via Pakistan. While acknowledging some progress, Trump said Tehran was demanding terms he “can’t agree” to and kept both diplomacy and military escalation on the table. Pakistani officials confirmed they passed on the proposal but withheld details, reflecting the sensitivity of ongoing backchannel efforts. Iran’s proposal reportedly prioritises immediate de-escalation, including restoring maritime activity, while delaying negotiations on its nuclear programme - an approach that continues to clash with Washington’s insistence on upfront, verifiable nuclear constraints.
Pakistan, meanwhile, reiterated that it remains actively engaged in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States, with Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stressing that “the clock on diplomacy has not stopped.” He highlighted that indirect exchanges and proposals remain under consideration, even as a fragile ceasefire holds following Pakistan-brokered talks in April. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to strain global energy markets, adding urgency to negotiations. Despite stalled progress and persistent disagreements over sequencing, officials say diplomatic channels remain open, with Pakistan maintaining a quiet but central role in preventing escalation and pushing for a negotiated settlement. (“US ‘still not satisfied’ after Tehran conveys another offer,” Dawn, 02 May 2026; “'Clock on diplomacy has not stopped': FO says Pakistan remains actively engaged with Iran, US to resolve conflict,” Dawn, 30 April 2026)
In Brief
SECURITY
Militant violence in Pakistan declines for the second straight month, according to PICSS
On 01 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan recorded a second consecutive month of declining militant violence in April 2026, according to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). The report documented 85 militant attacks, down from 146 in March - a 42 per cent decrease - while fatalities fell from 106 to 60, reflecting improved security indicators following intensified operations, including Operation Ghazab lil-Haq. Militants accounted for the majority of 291 combat-related deaths, while security forces’ casualties dropped significantly. Regional trends showed improvements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa - particularly its tribal districts - and a sharp decline in Balochistan. No attacks were reported in Punjab, Sindh or Islamabad. Despite the downturn, analysts caution that militant groups remain active, and the security situation, while stabilising, continues to be fragile. (“Pakistan sees decline in militant violence for 2nd straight month: PICSS,” Dawn, 01 May 2026)
Bannu: Constable killed in militant rocket attack
On 01 May, Dawn reported that a police constable was killed in a militant attack targeting an armoured patrol vehicle in Bannu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The assault, involving rocket fire and sniper shots near the Mandan police station area, critically injured the constable, who later died, while a civilian was also wounded and remains stable. Authorities launched a large-scale search operation and heightened security across the area. The incident reflects a broader surge in militant violence in Bannu, where repeated attacks on police, civilians and local figures have been reported in recent months. Earlier this week, security forces repelled a major assault on a police post, killing six militants, while other incidents included shootings and the defusal of an improvised explosive device, underscoring persistent instability in the district. (“Constable martyred as militants launch rocket attack on armoured police vehicle in Bannu,” Dawn, 01 May 2026)
Quetta: Rocket attacks injure three, damage several homes
On 01 May, Dawn reported that multiple rocket attacks struck Quetta late Wednesday night, injuring three people and damaging several homes, prompting authorities to place the city on high alert. According to police, four rockets were fired from surrounding mountainous areas, hitting locations including Mir Ahmed Khan Road, Akhtar Mohammad Road, Faqir Mohammad Road and Shanti Nagar, with one explosion damaging a transformer and causing a fire. Security forces, including police and Frontier Corps personnel, cordoned off affected areas and launched search operations, detaining over two dozen suspects for questioning. Helicopters were also deployed to trace the launch sites. Officials said the situation was under control but confirmed heightened security measures across the provincial capital, reflecting ongoing security concerns in Balochistan amid recurring militant threats. (“Quetta on high alert after rocket attacks,” Dawn, 01 May 2026)
EXTERNAL
President Zardari concludes five-day China visit with five MoUs and a joint investment agreement
On 02 May, Dawn reported that President Asif Ali Zardari returned to Pakistan after completing a five-day visit to China's Hunan and Hainan provinces focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in industrial development, agriculture, and the maritime economy. During the visit, three MoUs were signed in Changsha covering seawater desalination, agricultural technology, and the tea sector, while two additional MoUs and a joint investment agreement were signed in Sanya covering machinery, animal vaccines, and medical technology. A key emphasis of the visit was advancing CPEC 2.0 initiatives, particularly in domestic industrial growth and the blue economy. ("President Zardari wraps up China visit with new agreements," Dawn, 2 May 2026)
Pakistan and South Korea agree to fast-track CEPA negotiations and revive joint trade committee
On 02 May, Dawn reported that Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo held a virtual meeting and agreed to accelerate technical engagements on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both sides committing to agree within a mutually agreed timeframe. The Korean minister praised Pakistan's peace efforts in the Middle East, while Kamal highlighted opportunities across agriculture, mining, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and sports goods. Yeo noted that many Korean companies viewed Pakistan as a safe and promising investment destination, particularly in manufacturing and energy, and said a structured framework like CEPA would enhance investor confidence. Both sides also agreed to revive and finalise a Joint Trade Committee to ensure regular institutional engagement on bilateral trade matters. ("South Korea agrees to accelerate CEPA talks," Dawn, 02 May 2026)
Pakistan and ten nations condemn Israeli interception of Gaza aid flotilla in international waters
On 30 April, Dawn reported that Pakistan and ten other countries, including Türkiye, Brazil, Spain, Jordan, Malaysia, and South Africa, issued a joint statement condemning in the "strongest terms" Israel's assault on the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) in international waters off the Greek island of Crete, describing it as a flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law. Organisers said 211 activists were "kidnapped" across at least 22 of the flotilla's 58 boats, with Israel's foreign ministry putting the number detained at 175. Among those on board was former Jamaat-i-Islami senator Mushtaq Ahmad, who confirmed in a video message that the flotilla had been attacked by drones and the navy. The interception took place over 1,000 kilometres from Gaza, and Israel subsequently announced that detainees would be disembarked on a Greek beach in coordination with Athens. Separately, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) released a report accusing Israel of weaponising access to water in Gaza, stating that the deliberate denial of water formed part of what it described as a genocide against Palestinians. ("Pakistan, 10 other nations condemn Israeli assault on Gaza aid flotilla, 'unlawful detention' of activists," Dawn, 30 April 2026)
Sindh CM pitches provincial power transmission plan and wind energy potential to Danish ambassador
On 02 May, Dawn reported that Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah met Danish Ambassador Maja Dyrberg Mortensen at the CM House and outlined plans to generate and distribute affordable electricity through a provincial transmission and distribution framework aimed at reducing line losses and providing relief to domestic consumers and industry. The chief minister highlighted Sindh's wind energy potential, particularly along its coastal belt, and invited Danish companies to explore investment opportunities in wind power and other green energy initiatives. Ambassador Mortensen expressed a strong interest in Sindh's renewable energy sector and reiterated Denmark's commitment to supporting environmentally sustainable projects. The meeting also touched on coastal development, with the CM highlighting the strategic importance of Keti Bandar. ("Sindh pursuing plan to produce low-cost electricity, CM Murad tells envoy," Dawn, 2 May 2026)
ECONOMY
Govt misses revenue collection targets amid economic slowdown
On 01 May, Dawn reported that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) missed its collection target by PKR 684 billion during the first 10 months of the current fiscal year. The widening gap between the target and actual collections had become more pronounced over the past two months as the conflict affected trade flows, import volumes and overall economic activity, leading to lower tax receipts, particularly sales tax at the import stage. By contrast, domestic sales tax posted a relatively stronger performance, rising by about 9 per cent year-on-year. Income tax collection stood at PKR 5.084 trillion during ten months of FY26, reflecting a shortfall of PKR 210 billion against the PKR 5.294 trillion target, though it rose by 14 per cent compared to PKR 4.476 trillion in the same period last year. (“FBR misses July-April target by Rs 684bn,” Dawn, 01 May 2026)
Inflation hits double digits amid rising transport and food costs
On 02 May, Dawn reported that Consumer inflation reached double digits for the first time in 21 months. Prices rose by nearly 11 per cent year-on-year in April, driven by sharp increases in transport costs and essential food items. The last time inflation was above 10 per cent was in July 2024, when the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was recorded at 11.1 per cent. The increase in prices during April was largely driven by a steep rise in transport, which surged by 15.47 per cent over the previous month at the national level. Perishable food items also recorded a sharp increase of 15.25 per cent. The data showed that urban inflation stood slightly higher at 11.11 per cent compared to 10.56 per cent in rural areas on an annual basis. Every month, urban prices increased by 2.75 per cent, while rural inflation rose by 2.09 per cent. (“Inflation hits double digits for first time in 21 months,” Dawn, 02 May 2026)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Climate change becoming a major labour problem, warns ministry
On 02 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change warned that climate change is becoming a serious problem for workers. Heatwaves and floods are affecting people’s health and reducing their ability to work and earn. Officials said many workers, especially daily wage earners and farmers, are at high risk. About 43 per cent of workers are in agriculture, so changes in weather, drought and floods affect them the most. The report said extreme heat makes it harder for people to work while floods damage crops, homes and jobs. Recent floods have already caused job losses and affected many people, especially in rural areas. Experts warned that climate change could increase poverty and slow economic growth if action is not taken. The issue shows that climate change is not only an environmental problem but also a serious labour and economic challenge. (“Climate change is an unfolding labour crisis, ministry warns,” Dawn, 02 May 2026)
HEALTH
Study shows high lead levels in children across cities
On 02 May, Dawn reported that a study by the Ministry of National Health Services and UNICEF found that 4 out of 10 children in some areas of seven cities in Pakistan have lead in their blood. The study examined more than 2100 children aged 12 to 36 months in cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta. The report said lead can harm children’s growth, weaken their immunity and affect brain development, which can lead to learning and behaviour problems. Children in Hattar and Haripur were the most affected, with higher levels than in other areas. Possible sources of lead include factory pollution, battery recycling, lead paint and contaminated food. Experts said children are more at risk because their bodies absorb lead more easily. The findings reveal a serious public health problem and highlight the need for stronger regulations and action to protect children. (“40pc children in seven cities have lead in their blood, study finds,” Dawn, 2 May 2026)
SOCIETY
Pakistan media continues to face legal pressure, violence and harassment, finds PPF
On 02 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s media is facing growing pressure from legal cases, violence, online harassment and financial problems according to a report by the Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF). The report recorded 233 incidents against journalists between January 2025 and April 2026, including attacks, arrests and complaints. It said laws like the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act are often used against journalists, especially after critical reporting. Journalists also face physical risks and restrictions while doing their work. The report also noted increasing online harassment, especially targeting women journalists through fake or edited content. Media organisations are also facing financial pressure, including less government advertising. The report called for better protection of journalists and stronger implementation of safety laws. The situation shows growing challenges to press freedom and journalist safety in Pakistan. (“Notices, cases, red lines and violence put media in a bind,” Dawn, 2 May 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Geopolitics
Rafia Zakaria, "Global order shift," Dawn, 02 May 2026
"The occasion was a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation — a meeting which took place in the Kyrghyz capital Bishkek. Defence ministers from China and India were in attendance along with others from Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and many Central Asian republics who are also members of the SCO. It was here that the Indian defence minister made a statement that was, coming from him, quite surprising. “Terrorism,” Rajnath Singh told everyone, “has no nationality, no theology”."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1996862/global-order-shift
Iran war
Editorial, "Iran stalemate," Dawn, 02 May 2026
"The US and Iran are currently somewhere between war and peace. While a tenuous ceasefire — extended largely due to Pakistan’s efforts — still holds, negotiations are deadlocked, and both states have said they are ready to resume hostilities. Meanwhile, the respective Iranian and US blockades of the Strait of Hormuz also continue, causing the global economy much pain, with consumers across Europe and Asia, and beyond, facing a fresh wave of inflation."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1996868/iran-stalemate
Economy
Editorial, "Tax shortfall," Dawn, 02 May 2026
"The Rs684bn shortfall in tax collection during the first 10 months of the fiscal year is a continuation of a decades-old pattern. The FBR has been trailing its target from the very outset of the fiscal year, as it so often does. This gap between ambition and performance underscores a flawed taxation system and an inefficient tax machinery. As the country’s principal revenue-collecting body, the FBR sits at the heart of fiscal stability. The government’s ability to fund its expenditures, manage deficits, provide relief to the public and maintain macroeconomic balance depends heavily on its performance. Yet, the agency has hardly ever met its targets. This underperformance persists even though tax rates on salaried individuals and formal businesses remain exceedingly high, placing a disproportionate burden on a narrow base of compliant taxpayers."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1996867/tax-shortfall
Nuclear weapons
Editorial, "NPT Review Conference - challenges ahead?" The Express Tribune, 01 May 2026
"This year's RevCon is taking place at a time when the world is more fragmented and disordered, and the multilateral system is deeply fractured. Wars are being legitimised in search of a notion of victory, and arms buildup is increasing while discussions on disarmament are waning. New technologies have taken a role in the battlefield, and states' territorial boundaries are disrespected, and the UN charter is dishonoured. Nuclear weapons are being seen widely as a toolkit to safeguard national security against foreign invasions. Thus, it is thought that negotiations at RevCon 2026 will be potentially challenging and without a consensus; and the event may conclude in another failure to reach an agreed-upon outcome."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605730/npt-review-conference-challenges-ahead
External
Aneela Shahzad, "Europe: doctrinal shift towards violence," The Express Tribune, 01 May 2026
"In March 2025, army chiefs of more than 30 Western countries met in Paris. They urged Europe to be ready for war, and to operate without US support if needed. Two of army chiefs - Gen Knighton of the UK and Gen Breuer of Germany - called for Europe to rearm rapidly and for the European public to accept preparation for war. Gen Fabien of France said "war is no longer hypothetical; it's plausible within this decade". NATO's chief Mark Rutte, while framing Russia as a direct long-term threat, said Europe is already "in harm's way".
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605731/europe-doctrinal-shift-towards-violence
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