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In Focus
Pakistan and Iran reaffirm commitment to regional peace amid US sanctions threat
Interior Minister and CDF Munir visit Tehran as Islamabad pushes for renewed US-Iran negotiations
On 24 August, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff (CDF/COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir, accompanied by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, held talks with senior Iranian officials during a day-long visit to Tehran as part of Pakistan’s efforts to revive diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Munir met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Supreme Leader’s representative on the Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. Discussions focused on preventing further escalation, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, ending the conflict, and finding a negotiated settlement to regional disputes. Iranian leaders appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate dialogue and de-escalation, while Munir reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to promoting regional peace and stability.
The visit also included discussions on the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which Pakistan brokered in June to provide a framework for negotiations between Iran and the United States. According to Iranian media, Ghalibaf reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to the MoU while criticising Washington for failing to honour its commitments, while Rezaei called on the US to change its behaviour and take practical steps to implement the agreement. Pakistan has continued to support the framework despite the expiration of its envisaged 60-day negotiating period on 17 August without a breakthrough, with Islamabad maintaining that it could provide a basis for renewed talks. The latest discussions therefore come as Pakistan seeks to keep its mediation efforts alive amid continued tensions over the conflict and the Strait of Hormuz.
Munir’s visit also underscored the broader strategic importance of Pakistan-Iran relations, with Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei describing bilateral ties as being at one of their strongest stages. The Pakistani delegation discussed wider regional security concerns with Iranian officials, including the potential consequences of continued confrontation between Tehran and Washington and growing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. For Islamabad, the mediation effort remains particularly delicate as it seeks to maintain close ties with Iran while also balancing its strategic and economic relationships with the United States and Gulf countries. (“Pakistan, Iran discuss regional peace, negotiated settlement as Field Marshal Munir concludes Iran visit,” The Express Tribune, 24 August 2026; “CDF Munir vows continued efforts to stabilise region in meeting with Iran’s Ghalibaf,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
Pakistan faces growing wheat shortfall
Farmers warn of lower sowing as rising costs and weak support prices could force government to spend USD 1.2 billion
On 25 August, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Pakistan could face a wheat shortfall of nearly three million tonnes this season, potentially forcing the government to spend around USD 1.2 billion on imports unless it restores a viable support price and procurement mechanism. The Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI) said three years of policy failures had caused farmers estimated losses of PKR 2,200 billion, discouraging wheat cultivation ahead of the Rabi season. PKI President Khalid Mahmood Khokhar said the current support price of PKR 3,900 per 40kg maund was inadequate against production costs of around PKR 3,761, with farmers seeking a price closer to PKR 4,702 after a 25 per cent profit margin. Rising fertiliser, diesel, electricity and shipping costs have further squeezed growers, while the government’s reduced procurement for 2025-26 has weakened incentives to plant wheat. The farmers’ body has urged the government to restore the support price and procurement mechanism by the end of August and broaden fertiliser subsidies beyond di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) to other phosphatic products.
The warning comes amid wider concerns over Pakistan’s wheat policy and the consequences of reduced state intervention. Dawn reported that despite official claims of a satisfactory 2026 harvest, rising flour prices, concerns over provincial supplies and demands from flour millers for imports have pushed the government towards bridging a potential supply gap through foreign purchases. The underlying problem, however, has been identified as the previous year’s procurement crisis, when reduced government purchases left farmers with little bargaining power and allowed private traders to buy, store and later release wheat at higher prices. The shift away from public procurement and strategic reserves, including the declining role of the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO), has raised questions over whether market mechanisms can ensure stable prices and food supplies. Critics argue that continued reductions in agricultural subsidies and state intervention risk leaving farmers exposed to rising input costs while making consumers vulnerable to price shocks, highlighting a broader debate over whether Pakistan’s wheat system should rely increasingly on private markets or strengthen public procurement, strategic reserves and protections for farmers. (“Wheat shortfall could cost $1.2 billion,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2026; “When policy prescriptions backfire,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
In Brief
ECONOMY
Inter State Gas System to implement refinery policy
On 25 August, The Express Tribune reported that the government has designated Inter State Gas Systems (ISGS) as the policy implementation entity for the Pakistan Oil Refining Policy for Upgradation of Existing/Brownfield Refineries, 2023. The government is shifting key responsibilities from OGRA to the state-owned company amid questions over its capacity. The move gives ISGS a central role in the upgrade programme, under which existing refineries are expected to undertake major investments to modernise their plants. The policy allows refineries to execute upgrade agreements with an entity designated by the division. It also provides for the constitution of a Project Management Unit (PMU), comprising technical and financial experts, to ensure smooth implementation. ISGS will be responsible for executing upgrade agreements, opening Refinery Upgrade Accounts, monitoring projects, hiring consultants and auditors, and making incentive payments from the upgrade accounts. (“ISGS to execute refinery policy,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2026)
Inflation begins affecting Eid Milad un Nabi festivities
On 25 August, The Express Tribune reported that the festival of Eid Miladun Nabi has been dimmed by crushing inflation, expensive lights, and a devastating rise in electricity prices, leading to a decline in the tradition. Every year, around 4,000 small Milad committees in the city's streets and neighbourhoods used to open offices under local Milad committees, organise Milad gatherings, and celebrate the occasion. This year, the number of such committees has fallen by more than half. Also, instead of 72 hours, the lighting will continue for only 30 to 36 hours. The main reason is the record increase in electricity prices and the rising cost of colourful lights. Decoration shops have also increased their rates by 50 per cent this year, while lighting rental charges have also gone up. The rent for three days of decorative lights along with two or three welcome frames is PKR 200,000, excluding electricity expenses. (“Inflation dims Eid Milad Illumination,” The Express Tribune, 25 August 2026)
Moody's upgrades Pakistan's sovereign credit rating to B3
On 24 August, Dawn reported that Global ratings agency Moody’s upgraded Pakistan’s sovereign credit rating to B3 from Caa1. The rating agency also maintained a stable outlook, citing expectations of improvements in governance and easing of external and fiscal vulnerabilities. Pakistan’s external vulnerability risks have eased, with foreign exchange reserves building steadily, supported by sustained macroeconomic stabilisation. At the same time, lower domestic financing costs amid monetary easing and an improved fiscal position have driven a material improvement in Pakistan’s debt affordability. Moody’s also raised Pakistan’s local and foreign currency country ceilings to B1 and B3, from B2 and Caa1, respectively. The two-notch gap between the local currency ceiling and sovereign rating is driven by the government’s relatively large footprint in the economy, weak institutions, and high political and external vulnerability risk.(“Moody's lifts Pakistan sovereign rating to B3 from Caa1, cites improved governance-and-easing-of-external-risk,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
Bureau of Revenue announces new measures to streamline sales tax registration
On 25 August, Dawn reported that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced new measures to streamline sales tax registration for businesses, particularly those considered low risk. Under the new system, applications filed through the IRIS portal will be screened using risk-based checks. The FBR has directed all field formations not to demand additional documents unless they are legally required or flagged by the risk-based system. The FBR has asked sectoral associations under the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry to issue pre-registration certificates to their members to facilitate manufacturers. (“FBR eases sales tax registration for businesses,” Dawn, 25 August 2026)
Government allows foreign fuel suppliers to establish bonded storage facilities
On 24 August, Dawn reported that the government formally approved allowing foreign fuel suppliers to establish bonded storage facilities in Pakistan at their own expense for multiple purposes, including re-export and supplies to the domestic market. The guidelines were approved at a meeting of the federal cabinet’s Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), chaired by the Finance Minister. The proposal focused on the development and strengthening of the key pillars of the country’s energy security architecture in the oil and gas sector, including indigenisation, the development of strategic petroleum reserves and the promotion of customs-bonded storage facilities to ensure a resilient and sustainable petroleum supply chain. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had opposed the policy, citing its own collection and monitoring challenges, but almost all other stakeholders supported the petroleum minister’s proposal to proceed with bonded warehouses and engage with key suppliers in West Asia. The policy guidelines cleared by the ECC would cover the import of all grades of crude oil, motor spirit (petrol), high-speed diesel (HSD), jet fuel, furnace oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG) on foreign suppliers’ accounts through Customs bonded storage facilities in Pakistan. (“ECC approves bonded storage of imported petroleum products,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
EXTERNAL
UK-backed education programme lifts learning outcomes for 200,000+ children in Punjab and KP
On 25 August, The Express Tribune reported that a UK-funded education initiative working with the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments has helped more than 200,000 children improve access to schooling, reading, numeracy and life skills, reaching over 500 public schools and bringing more than 35,000 out-of-school children back into education; the British High Commission said the programme also delivered remedial education to 48,000 learners, trained over 5,500 teachers and 250 Master Trainers, and upgraded facilities at 400 schools, with participating children's Urdu reading levels rising from 15 to 78 per cent, English reading from 15 to 45 per cent, and subtraction skills from 37 to 67 per cent. ("UK education initiatives benefit 200k children," The Express Tribune, 25 August 2026)
Torkham's repeated closures pose a hurdle to CPEC's planned push into Afghanistan
On 24 August, Dawn reported that the reliability of the Torkham border crossing has become a key challenge for the planned extension of CPEC into Afghanistan and Central Asia, a project China, Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed to pursue in 2025, including road and rail links toward Kabul, since repeated border closures, particularly the prolonged shutdown starting in October 2025, disrupted bilateral trade and left thousands of containers stranded; the report argued that any further investment in the western CPEC corridor needs to come paired with mechanisms to keep cargo moving during political disputes, digitised customs procedures, and backup crossing capacity at points like Chaman. ("Torkham's importance for CPEC," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
President Zardari bids farewell to outgoing Saudi ambassador, credits him for deepening bilateral ties
On 24 August, Dawn reported that President Asif Ali Zardari thanked outgoing Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki for his contribution to strengthening Pakistan-Saudi relations at a farewell meeting in Aiwan-i-Sadr, crediting him for advancing political, economic and trade cooperation during his tenure since 2017; Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan's value on its long-standing friendship and strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia and said he was confident the groundwork laid during Al-Malki's time would continue supporting bilateral ties going forward. ("Outgoing Saudi envoy meets president," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
Foreign Minister presses IMO chief for urgent action to free Pakistani sailors held by Somali pirates
On 24 August, Dawn reported that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to intervene urgently and effectively to secure the release of 10 Pakistani sailors held by Somali pirates, in a meeting with IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez in London, thanking the organisation for its support so far and reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to maritime safety and security; the sailors are part of the crew of the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Honour 25, hijacked off Puntland, Somalia, on 21 April 2026, alongside crew members from Indonesia, India and Sri Lanka. ("In meeting with IMO chief, Dar calls for 'urgent intervention' for return of Pakistani sailors held by Somali pirates," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Opposition parties hold a joint parliamentary meeting; pledge to pursue collective strategies
On 24 August, Dawn reported that the joint opposition held its first parliamentary meeting at Parliament House, announcing the need to address violence, the economic crisis, and political repression. The meeting was attended by opposition party leaders, including Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, National Assembly Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas Jafri, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, and others. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said collective strategies and actions would be pursued through mutual consultation and called for the release of prisoners and the creation of a conducive political environment. He opposed any proposal to divide the provinces, arguing that such a move would increase unrest. Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai added that creating provinces through executive orders rather than the constitutional procedure would undermine Pakistan’s foundations, while calling the opposition’s unity a positive development. PTI leaders, including Barrister Gohar, said the party had assured JUI-F of its full support and that opposition parties would speak with one voice in parliament. The leaders also criticised the deteriorating law and order situation, economic pressures, political environment and alleged violations of citizens’ rights, while calling for greater political consultation and consensus. (“Joint opposition announces strategy against economic crisis, political repression,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
PTI questions the legitimacy of assemblies formed under Form-47
On 24 August, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said assemblies formed under Form-47 lacked the legitimacy to alter Pakistan’s constitutional structure or system of government, while calling for cooperation with political parties on “principled” grounds. He stated, “The Form-47 assemblies do not have the legitimacy to change the structure of the country or alter the system of government.” He said PTI was prepared to work with all political parties, including JUI-F, and invited them to participate in the party’s planned September 27 protest. Referring to PTI’s recent meeting with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Raja said there had been agreement on matters of principle and that PTI would work with anyone willing to do so. He also stressed that PTI was not dependent on or subordinate to any political party, saying, “We are not dependent on anyone, nor are we subordinate to anyone.” Regarding the Supreme Court order concerning Imran Khan’s transfer to Shifa International Hospital, Raja said the responsibility for implementing the order rested with Punjab officials as the Adiala Jail was located in Punjab. He rejected the government’s claim that the court order had not been violated and maintained that the PTI had not filed the contempt petition concerning the matter. (“Form-47 assemblies have no legitimacy to change country's structure: Salman Akram Raja,” The Express Tribune, 24 August 2026)
JI Balochistan warns against federal control of Gwadar
On 24 August, Dawn reported that Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Balochistan chief Maulana Hidayatur Rehman Baloch stated that any attempt to place Gwadar under federal administration would face strong resistance from residents and political forces. Speaking at the Gwadar Press Club, Baloch described discussions about creating new provinces or placing specific territories under federal control as “merely tactics” to gauge public reaction. He added that new districts or administrative units could be created only through consensus and parliamentary approval. Additionally, he also criticised security checkpoints in the region, stating that they had become sources of public humiliation and harassment rather than effective security measures. He said, “I will abolish all unnecessary security posts within 24 hours if made chief minister of Balochistan even for one day.” (“Balochistan govt warned against placing Gwadar under federal control,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
PM Sharif and Sindh CM agree to “maintain political tolerance”
On 24 August, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah agreed to “maintain political tolerance and consultation” during a meeting in Islamabad. The talks reportedly discussed mutual interest, political affairs, Sindh-related issues, and ongoing development projects. The meeting comes in the background of growing tensions between the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) over the “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” elections. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari stated that a genuine alliance with the PML-N would not be possible until the party’s grievances over the “AJK” polls were addressed. Dawn adds that the meeting between Shehbaz and Murad appeared to be aimed at managing the growing political differences and maintaining cooperation between the two parties. (“PM Shehbaz and Sindh CM 'agree to maintain political tolerance, consultation' amid rift in ruling coalition,” Dawn, 24 August 2026)
SECURITY
Balochistan: Gunmen kill five construction workers in Pishin district
On 24 August, The Express Tribune reported that five road construction workers were killed and another was critically injured when armed attackers opened fire on a construction site in the Saranan Sulemanzai area of Pishin. Heavily armed gunmen targeted labourers and heavy machinery assigned to a double-road project. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti condemned the assault, extending condolences to bereaved families whilst affirming attacks would not disrupt peace. Assistant to Chief Minister Shahid Rind condemned the targeting of hard-working labourers and vowed that perpetrators would face justice. The attack follows an earlier incident when armed terrorists stormed Saranan and detonated a local police station using explosives. The outlawed Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the police station attack. ("Five labourers killed as gunmen attack road construction site in Pishin," The Express Tribune, 24 August 2026)
Balochistan: Curfew reimposed in Mastung's Khad Kocha following security concerns
On 24 August, Dawn reported that Balochistan's Home Department reimposed an indefinite curfew in Khad Kocha Tehsil of Mastung district effective at 07:00, citing security concerns and the need to maintain law and order. The department completely restricted public movement on roads and markets throughout Khad Kocha and adjoining areas. District administration and law enforcement intensified security measures, deploying additional personnel to ensure compliance and respond promptly to incidents. The district administration urged residents to stay indoors and cooperate with authorities, warning that anyone venturing outside would do so at their own risk. The curfew remains indefinite. Earlier on 22 July, authorities similarly imposed a lockdown in Khad Kocha after three people were killed and five wounded in a gun attack. ("Curfew re-imposed in Balochistan's restive Mastung tehsil," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
Sindh: Inter-provincial robber wanted by police killed in alleged encounter
On 24 August, Dawn reported that an inter-provincial robber wanted by Sindh Police was killed during an alleged encounter with Rahim Yar Khan Police. The suspect was identified as Rizwan alias Irfan Shar, a resident of Khairpur, Sindh. Sindh government had announced a head money of PKR 5 million for Shar. However, Rizwan's brother claimed via video that Station House Officer Jam Aftab and Rahim Yar Khan police had taken Rizwan into custody whilst he was travelling to Sindh. Police claimed at Wali Mor they signalled three motorcyclists to stop, but suspects opened fire, resulting in a shootout where Shar was shot dead. Conflicting accounts raise questions regarding encounter circumstances and warrant an independent inquiry. ("Suspect wanted by Sindh Police killed in Rahim Yar Khan," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
Sindh: Inter-provincial robber wanted by police killed in alleged encounter
On 24 August, Dawn reported that an inter-provincial robber wanted by Sindh Police was killed during an alleged encounter with Rahim Yar Khan Police. The suspect was identified as Rizwan alias Irfan Shar, a resident of Khairpur, Sindh. Sindh government had announced a head money of PKR 5 million for Shar. However, Rizwan's brother claimed via video that Station House Officer Jam Aftab and Rahim Yar Khan police had taken Rizwan into custody whilst he was travelling to Sindh. Police claimed at Wali Mor they signalled three motorcyclists to stop, but suspects opened fire, resulting in a shootout where Shar was shot dead. Conflicting accounts raise questions regarding encounter circumstances and warrant an independent inquiry. ("Suspect wanted by Sindh Police killed in Rahim Yar Khan," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
KP: Counter-Terrorism Department official killed in Peshawar shooting attack
On 24 August, Dawn reported that a Counter-Terrorism Department official was killed in a targeted attack in the Budhani area of Peshawar on 24 August. Unidentified armed motorcyclists opened fire on Counter-Terrorism official Humayun in Pasni, Budhani police station jurisdiction. Attackers fled the scene. Police cordoned off the area and launched search operations to apprehend suspects. Separately, six policemen, including Sub-Inspector Zubair Khan, were injured when terrorists attacked the D-Chowk police post with a hand grenade on Sunday night. Officers manning the post responded with heavy fire, forcing attackers to retreat. Injured personnel were Sub-Inspector Zubair Khan, Khair Jan, Israel, Aitebar Shah, Syed Alam, and Irshad. Police beefed up security whilst search operations continued. ("CTD official martyred in Peshawar attack," Dawn, 24 August 2026)
PROVINCES
Rawalpindi: Crime surge leaves residents alarmed; police launch operations
On 25 August, The Express Tribune reported that a surge in murders, robberies, street crime, theft and burglaries has heightened public concern in Rawalpindi, with residents urging government and police authorities to implement immediate protective measures. Serious incidents reported across the city include multiple murders, citizen killings on Adiala Road on Monday, and the shooting of a woman TikToker in Taxila. Police reported successful operations arresting seven street crime suspects on Sunday and recovering stolen vehicles, mobile phones, cash, and weapons. Morgah Police arrested a three-member inter-district gang targeting overseas returnees, recovering stolen money exceeding Rs 10.3 million. Despite operations, approximately six murders within the past month underscore persistent security challenges despite police successes. ("Crime surge rattles Rawalpindi," The Express Tribune, 25 August 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Society
Usama Khilji, “Women’s leadership,” Dawn, 24 August 2026
"Pakistan doesn’t fare well on indices related to gender gap and women’s empowerment. The damning statistics include the number of girls who are out of school, the wide gender digital divide, high rates of violence against women, and women’s low representation in private and public leadership positions."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2024929/womens-leadership
Editorial, “A crisis of credibility,” The Express Tribune, 22 August 2026
“More than 84,500 complaints have been lodged against Punjab Police in just the first seven months of this year. That is nearly 400 grievances every single day - a number that would be staggering to anyone unfamiliar with the force's reputation for seamlessly blending violence, corruption and ineptitude."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2625149/a-crisis-of-credibility
Politics & governance
Sufiyan Bin Muneer, “Empty promises,” Dawn, 24 August 2026
“Systems collapse when promises are not honoured. In a democracy, institutional health is measured by how each branch — legislature, executive and judiciary — upholds its commitments. One such commitment is to conduct elections within 90 days of the dissolution of an assembly as required by the Constitution. Commitments exist for the collective good. They collapse when they are negotiated to secure personal or institutional ambitions — such as when a law is tailored to protect the tenure of the chief justice."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2024926/empty-promises
Fahd Husain, “The winding road to Shifa,” The Express Tribune, 24 August 2026
“The events of the last week have shown yet again that Imran Khan remains more relevant to the system than the government may acknowledge, and less relevant than PTI imagines. The distance between jail ward and hospital ward is – no surprise – tortuously long and tantalisingly short."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2625292/the-winding-road-to-shifa
Sindh
Editorial, “The missing millions,” Dawn, 24 August 2026
“Sindh's five-year pledge with the UN to bring children into school is welcome, but the province never had any shortage of plans. What it lacks is progress. Unicef estimates that 7.4m children aged five to 16 in Sindh — 44pc of the age group — are out of school. The 2023 census found that 6.6m children in this bracket had never attended school at all, showing that the problem is not one of retention."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2024915/the-missing-millions
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