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In Focus
Water shortage in Karachi affects Eidul Azha celebrations
Karachi Water Corporation announces shortfall in supply due to technical glitch as Sindh heatwave intensifies
On 01 June, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Karachi’s Eidul Azha celebrations were disrupted by widespread shortages of water, gas and electricity, leaving many residents struggling to cook, clean and cope with extreme temperatures. Residents across several neighbourhoods reported dry taps, low gas pressure, and repeated power outages despite assurances from utilities that supply would remain uninterrupted. The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) later announced a 54 million gallons per day (MGD) shortfall after electricity supply to the North East Karachi Pumping Station was disrupted due to a fault in K-Electric’s main cable, raising fears of further supply interruptions.
The crisis unfolded as Sindh also faced severe heatwaves, with temperatures in interior districts ranging from 47°C to 50°C. At the same time, the Sindh government accused the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) of unfairly reducing the province’s water allocation under the 1991 Water Accord, warning that lower flows could worsen Karachi’s already strained water supply and affect industries and economic activity. Authorities urged residents to conserve water and take precautions against heat-related illness. (“Karachi faces 54 MGD water shortage after electricity supply to NEK Pumping Station suspended: KWSC,” Dawn, 31 May 2026; “Sindh accuses IRSA of violating water accord, urges federal intervention amid growing crisis,” The Express Tribune, 31 May 2026; “‘No water, no gas, no electricity: this is Eid for Karachi’,” Dawn, 30 May 2026; “Heatwave grips Sindh, Karachi stays milder,” The Express Tribune, 01 June 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Federal Board of Revenue falls short of tax target for May by PKR 28 billion
On 31 May, Dawn reported that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) collected PKR 28 billion less than its tax target for May. The FBR collected PKR 967 billion against a target of PKR 994 billion. Officials said lower economic activity, disruptions caused by tensions in the Middle East, and the Eidul Azha holidays affected revenue collection. Despite missing the target, tax collection was still higher than in May last year. The report said tax revenues have remained under pressure in recent months because of slower trade activity and lower imports. During the first eleven months of the current fiscal year, the FBR collected PKR 11.232 trillion, which is slightly below its revised target. The government has already lowered its annual revenue target after discussions with the IMF. Officials said higher collections from the petroleum levy have helped reduce some of the revenue shortfall. (“FBR misses May target by Rs28bn,” Dawn, 31 May 2026)
Cotton imports increase despite lower local prices
On 01 June, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s cotton imports continued to rise even though local cotton prices had fallen. Pakistan remained one of the largest buyers of US cotton and also imported cotton from Brazil. Industry experts said textile mills are importing cotton because local supplies are not sufficient to meet demand. The report noted that cotton prices declined in both Sindh and Punjab during the Eidul Azha holidays. However, textile manufacturers said the sector continues to face challenges such as high taxes, expensive electricity and gas, and high borrowing costs. Many cotton ginning factories and textile mills are reportedly operating below capacity or have shut down. Industry representatives have asked the government to provide support in the upcoming budget through lower taxes, reduced energy costs, and cheaper financing. They said these measures would help improve the performance and competitiveness of Pakistan’s cotton and textile industries. (“Imports of cotton surge despite lower local prices,” Dawn, 1 June 2026)
Talks on lower power costs continue with Chinese power producers
On 31 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan has not yet reached an agreement with Chinese power companies on reducing electricity costs. Power Minister Awais Leghari said talks are continuing but have not produced the desired results so far. The discussions are focused on reducing payments made to Chinese-funded power plants under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Leghari said the government wants to lower electricity prices and reduce the financial burden on the power sector. However, progress has been slow because the agreements involve long-term contracts and complex financial arrangements. The ongoing negotiations are part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to improve the energy sector, reduce circular debt, and make electricity more affordable for consumers and businesses. (“No sufficient outcome yet of talks to secure discounts from Chinese power producers: Leghari,” Dawn, 31 May 2026)
EXTERNAL
Families of Somali hostages urge government action
On 31 May, The Express Tribune reported that the families of Pakistani nationals held hostage by Somali pirates renewed calls for urgent government intervention as the captivity entered its 40th day. In a video appeal, Ayesha Amin, wife of hostage Amin Bin Shams, said families were facing prolonged uncertainty and emotional distress while conditions for the captives were reportedly worsening. According to information shared with relatives, food supplies had nearly run out, and hostages were allegedly surviving on raw rice and contaminated water, raising concerns over deteriorating health and living conditions. She also criticised the company linked to the vessel for failing to secure their release and appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and other officials to use all available diplomatic and administrative channels to ensure the hostages’ safe return. (“Kin of Somali hostages seek govt action,” The Express Tribune, 31 May 2026)
SECURITY
KP: Eight TTP-affliated militants killed in Darra Adamkhel
On 30 May, Dawn reported that Pakistani security forces killed at least eight militants, including two Afghan nationals linked to the banned Tariq Gidar group - an affiliate of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) - during the second day of an operation in Darra Adamkhel, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Combined with five militants killed on the first day, the death toll from the ongoing operation rose to 13. Security sources said the area had been cordoned off and the operation would continue until all militants were eliminated. The Tariq Gidar group, historically active in Darra Adamkhel, has been linked to militant attacks in the region. The operation comes amid a broader resurgence of militancy in Pakistan since the Afghan Taliban’s return to power in 2021 and Islamabad’s continued concerns over alleged militant sanctuaries across the border. (“8 militants killed on second day of security operation in KP's Darra Adamkhel: security sources,” Dawn, 30 May 2026)
Investigation Agency offloaded nearly 40,000 passengers in 2025 to curb irregular migration
On 31 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) offloaded 39,786 passengers in 2025 under what officials described as a lawful, intelligence-driven and risk-based immigration system aimed at curbing irregular migration and human smuggling. FIA Immigration Additional Director General Nouman Siddiqui said the policy was designed to prevent exploitation, protect lives and safeguard Pakistan’s international image rather than restrict travel arbitrarily. The agency linked the stricter approach to repeated migration-related tragedies, including the 2023 Greece boat disaster, noting that around 460 Pakistanis had been affected by irregular migration incidents over the past three years, including at least 377 deaths. Authorities also reported registering 2,421 human smuggling cases since December 2024, arresting 3,130 agents and introducing reforms including risk profiling, pre-departure facilitation desks and a 24/7 complaints mechanism. (“FIA offloaded nearly 39,800 passengers in 2025 to curb human smuggling, official says,” Dawn, 31 May 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Punjab to deploy 6000 police personnel for “Gilgit-Baltistan” elections amid PTI’s “pre-poll rigging” claim
On 31 May, Dawn reported that 6,000 Punjab police personnel would be deployed to “Gilgit-Baltistan” ahead of the 07 June elections as authorities moved to strengthen security arrangements in the region. The deployment, expanded from an initial approval of 5,000 personnel, includes anti-riot equipment and dedicated transport logistics. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on election security preparations, with the government emphasising peaceful and organised polling. Meanwhile, PTI alleged “systematic pre-poll rigging”, accusing the federal government and election authorities of restricting opposition campaigning, misusing state resources, and selectively enforcing the election code of conduct. The “Gilgit-Baltistan” Election Commission rejected allegations of bias, insisting that all candidates and parties would be treated equally and warning that violations of the code of conduct would invite legal action without discrimination. (“Punjab approves deployment of 6,000 police personnel in GB for election,” Dawn, 31 May 2026)
Defense Minister Asif alleges financial corruption within Lahore Electric Supply Company
On 31 May, The Express Tribune reported that Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused employees of Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) of collecting PKR 80,000 from villagers to repair a damaged transformer without issuing any official receipt. According to Asif, the transformer in the village of his domestic worker had failed, prompting him to seek help through a former LESCO chief executive. He alleged that utility staff later repaired the transformer and collected money raised through community contributions but refused to provide documentation for the payment. Asif said the incident highlighted broader accountability concerns within the power utility system, arguing that if a serving federal minister could not prevent such practices, ordinary consumers faced even greater difficulties. The allegations come amid wider complaints from Lahore residents over unannounced power outages and rising electricity bills despite service disruptions. In response, Power Minister Awais Leghari said that “strict action” had been taken against a LESCO line superintendent following the allegations. (“Khawaja Asif alleges LESCO staff took Rs80,000 to repair transformer without receipt,” The Express Tribune, 31 May 2026)
AF-PAK
Pakistan remains unconvinced by Taliban warning to TTP
On 1 June, The Express Tribune reported that the Afghan Taliban informed Pakistan that Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada had warned the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to stop carrying out attacks inside Pakistan or risk losing Taliban support. The message was intended to reassure Pakistan that Kabul was addressing its security concerns. However, Pakistani officials said the warning alone was not enough. They argued that there has been no visible change on the ground and that militant groups continue to operate from Afghan territory. According to officials, Pakistan is looking for concrete action rather than verbal assurances. The report noted that diplomatic contacts between the two countries are continuing, with China supporting efforts to improve dialogue. Despite these efforts, tensions remain because Pakistan is concerned about cross-border militancy and security threats. (“Kabul warning to TTP fails to convince Islamabad,” The Express Tribune, 1 June 2026)
Return of Afghan nationals resumes despite Torkham border issues
On 30 May, The Express Tribune reported that the return of Afghan nationals from Pakistan resumed despite ongoing problems at the Torkham border crossing. The process restarted after a temporary pause caused by administrative and logistical difficulties. Pakistani authorities said the repatriation drive would continue as part of the government’s policy on undocumented foreign nationals. The report said that issues at the Torkham border led to delays in the movement and processing of returning Afghans. Officials from Pakistan and Afghanistan continued discussions to manage border operations and resolve problems affecting cross-border travel. The development comes as Pakistan continues its wider effort to repatriate undocumented Afghan nationals. The issue remains an important part of relations between Islamabad and Kabul, with border management, migration, and security continuing to be key concerns for both countries. (“Afghan returns resume amid Torkham crisis,” The Express Tribune, 30 May 2026)
CLIMATE CHANGE
More than 20 forest fires in Murree and Rawalpindi contained during heatwave
On 31 May, The Express Tribune reported that more than 20 forest fires were brought under control in the Murree and Rawalpindi forest areas during a severe heatwave. The fires occurred between 26 and 29 May due to high temperatures and dry weather. Forest department teams responded quickly and prevented the fires from spreading to larger areas. Officials said the fires affected several locations, including Murree, Rawalpindi, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, and Bahawalnagar. Some private land was damaged, but firefighting efforts helped protect large forest areas from serious destruction. The forest department said its teams remained on alert throughout the heatwave and continued monitoring vulnerable areas. The incidents highlight the growing risk of forest fires during periods of extreme heat and dry weather. (“Over 20 forest fires contained during heatwave,” The Express Tribune, 31 May 2026)
ON INDIA
Pakistan’s “resolute response” to India last year prevented further war, says military official
On 31 May, Dawn reported that Lieutenant General Nauman Zakria said Pakistan’s response during the May 2025 conflict with India “debunked the notion of space for war in South Asia”. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, he said the conflict highlighted Pakistan’s military capabilities in areas such as intelligence, cyber operations, surveillance, and space technology. Zakria said relations between India and Pakistan continue to be influenced by nuclear deterrence, military competition, and unresolved political disputes. He also expressed concern about growing military competition, hostile statements, and the lack of effective crisis-management mechanisms. He called for better communication, responsible use of new technologies, and greater efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. (“Pakistan’s resolute response during May 2025 conflict debunked notion of space for war in South Asia: military official,” Dawn, 31 May 2026)
Pakistan and the US-Iran war
US Defense Secretary Hegseth praises Pakistan’s mediation efforts
Islamabad emerging as leading contender to host formal signing ceremony of potential US-Iran deal, although major differences remain
On 31 May, Dawn reported that, at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth praised Pakistan’s role in the ongoing peace process and described relations with Islamabad as an emerging “true friendship”. Referring to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, he highlighted Pakistan’s contribution to regional diplomacy and said Washington appreciated efforts to advance peace and stability in the Middle East. Hegseth also reiterated the US position that President Donald Trump had played a role in facilitating the May 2025 India-Pakistan ceasefire and emphasised that the United States was not currently viewing either India or Pakistan as a direct strategic threat.
Meanwhile, Islamabad has emerged as a leading contender to host the formal signing ceremony of a potential United States-Iran peace agreement if negotiations succeed, with diplomatic sources pointing to Pakistan’s role in facilitating initial contacts between Washington and Tehran. Reports indicated that both sides had moved closer to a framework involving the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the continuation of the ceasefire, and further negotiations on unresolved nuclear issues, although important differences remain over implementation, regional security concerns, and the future structure of Iran’s nuclear programme. Diplomats suggested that growing economic and political costs had increased incentives for both sides to pursue a negotiated settlement. (“Islamabad stays in frame for US-Iran deal signing,” Dawn, 31 May 2026; “'US, Pakistan developing true friendship': Hegseth hails Islamabad's role in US-Iran negotiations,” Dawn, 30 May 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
On the Middle East
Shahid Javed Burki, "The US war in Iran and its consequences," The Express Tribune, 01 June 2026
"Donald Trump's war in Iran has brought conflict close to Pakistan's border. After all, Iran is one of its four neighbours. Pakistan has also to be mindful of the fact that it has, after Iran, the world's second largest Shiite population which is very troubled by the American-Israeli attacks on Iran. They were involved in a demonstration outside the large American consulate in Karachi and were fired upon resulting in the deaths of 10 people. Sixteen more died in violent demonstrations in other parts of the country."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610748/the-us-war-in-iran-and-its-consequences
Kamran Yousaf, "Trump, Pakistan and the Abraham Accords," The Express Tribune, 01 June 2026
"Pakistan has a chequered history of engaging with US pressure. But there is also a misconception that outside powers can simply dictate outcomes to smaller states. Reality is more complex, shaped by domestic politics, strategic interests and regional compulsions. Engagement with Washington continues. But on Israel and the Abraham Accords, Pakistan's policy line remains firmly anchored in its traditional stance."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610743/trump-pakistan-and-the-abraham-accords
Polio in Pakistan
Iqra Siddique, "The dilemma of our polio workforce," The Express Tribune, 31 May 2026
"In Pakistan, one of the most devastating casualties of militancy has been the fight against polio. Although polio is a preventable disease, children in Pakistan remain vulnerable because those working to eradicate the disease are themselves being targeted. Hundreds of polio workers and security personnel have been killed over the years. They are not combatants but harmless individuals moving door to door, carrying vaccines to protect children from lifelong paralysis. By targeting these polio workers, militants are weaponising fear against the most vulnerable segment of society."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610571/the-dilemma-of-our-polio-workforce
Economy
Editorial, "Borrowing binge," The Express Tribune, 31 May 2026
"If we are to escape the debt cycle, we must pivot towards increasing exports, attracting genuine foreign direct investment and plugging the leaks in the energy sector. Failure to do so will mean that the unsustainable debt pile of today will one day be a 'good memory', similar to how many people reminisce about decades past, when our economy was still a basket case, but debt was 'only' a few billion dollars, and the dollar was 'just' Rs50 or so."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610572/borrowing-binge
External
Editorial, "Reforming UNSC," The Express Tribune, 30 May 2026
"Reforming United Nations Security Council, the UNSC, has been an earnest desire of member states who believe in pluralism, equality of sovereign rights and a world free from aggression. That, nonetheless, could not be achieved owing to the power politics exhibited by the permanent members of the elite club, with the pinnacle of ego-centrism resting in the veto power. Thus, wars, poverty and climatic degradation that impact billions of people are mere footnote concerns, as smaller states remain subjugated in the echelons of the world body. This is where a change is desired, if the world body has to absolve itself of a fate meted out to League of Nations."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610429/reforming-unsc
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