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Taliban suffer heavy losses as Pakistan Army hits back in Kurram Sector

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Taliban suffer

PESHAWAR: The Pakistan Army delivered a swift and decisive response to unprovoked firing by Afghan Taliban and Khwarij terrorists in the Kurram Sector along the Pak-Afghan border.

According to security sources, Taliban positions suffered significant losses as a result of the retaliatory strikes. Within an hour, the Pakistan Army destroyed the fourth tank position of the Afghan Taliban at the Shamshad Post, forcing militants linked with Fitna al-Khawarij and the Taliban to flee in panic.

Sources confirmed that an important commander of Fitna al-Khawarij was reportedly killed in the counterattack. The strikes also destroyed multiple tank positions at the Nargsar Post in Afghanistan’s Khost province, eliminating several Taliban and Khawarij fighters. The post was later found abandoned.

One Taliban position reportedly raised a white flag before being evacuated by its fighters, officials added.

In addition, the army destroyed a sixth tank and its crew at Turkmanzai Top, with flames seen rising from the wreckage. A training camp opposite the Polsen Post, reportedly linked to Khawarij leader Malik Naeem, was also completely demolished in the operation.

PM Shehbaz concludes Egypt visit following Gaza peace summit

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PM Shehbaz

SHARM EL SHEIKH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif left here for Pakistan after a two-day visit to attend the Gaza Peace Summit, where leaders from the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey signed a peace deal for Gaza.

At the Sharm El Sheikh airport, Egyptian Minister of Culture Ahmed Fouad Heno saw off the prime minister, who joined the leaders from 20 states at the summit and also addressed the gathering after Donald Trump invited him to give his address, interrupting his press conference.

Calling the moment “one of the greatest days in contemporary history” the prime minister spoke highly for the leadership role of President Trump and said, “And today again, I would like to nominate this great president for the Nobel Peace Prize because I genuinely feel he is the most genuine and the most wonderful candidate for the peace prize because he has not only brought peace in South Asia, saved millions of people, their lives, and today, here in Sharm el-Sheikh, achieved peace in Gaza and saved millions of lives in the Middle East,” he said.

PM Shehbaz winds up Egypt visit after Gaza peace summit

While on his way home, Prime Minister Shehbaz, in a social media post on X, said that Pakistan’s gratitude to Trump was anchored in his promise that he would make it stop, and delivering on that promise.

“We will continue to express our admiration for President Trump’s unique contribution to peace,” the prime minister said.

Calling the Palestinian people’s freedom, dignity and prosperity remain a primary concern for Pakistan, he reaffirmed that the establishment of a strong and viable Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders and Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital remained the bedrock of Pakistan’s Middle East policy and would continue to be so.

He said that Pakistan was deeply involved in the process and that, along with other brotherly nations, its priority was stated and reinforced consistently.

Pakistani envoy exposes India’s role in backing terror groups

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Pakistani envoy

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistani diplomat Asif Khan has sharply denounced the Indian government, accusing it of state-sponsored terrorism and deliberate disinformation campaigns aimed at tarnishing Pakistan’s global image.

Speaking at the Fourth Committee Meeting on Decolonisation Items, Asif Khan, representing Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, said that India continues to support banned terrorist groups such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and the Majeed Brigade, revealing what he called the Modi administration’s “heinous face” before the world.

He said India’s repeated attempts to distort facts about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir have failed to hide the reality of its occupation and ongoing human rights abuses. “Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognized disputed territory, and its resolution lies in a UN-supervised plebiscite as outlined in the Security Council resolutions,” he emphasized.

The Pakistani envoy reminded that India had itself taken the Kashmir issue to the UN Security Council, but now seeks to backtrack on its own commitments. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people’s legitimate and peaceful struggle for self-determination.

Asif Khan further warned that India’s irresponsible conduct poses a grave threat to regional peace and stability, accusing New Delhi of portraying itself as a victim to mask its state-sponsored terrorism.

Concluding his remarks, he said India’s claim of being the world’s largest democracy is hollow, calling it instead “the world’s largest deception.”

JUI-F challenges election of new KP Chief Minister in PHC

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JUI-F

PESHAWAR: The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) has approached the Peshawar High Court (PHC), challenging the election of newly appointed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.

According to details, the petition was submitted by JUI-F’s parliamentary leader in the provincial assembly, Lutfur Rehman, through Barrister Yaseen Raza.

The plea argues that the resignation of outgoing Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has not yet been formally accepted, rendering the election of a new chief minister unconstitutional.

 It adds that the Governor has summoned Gandapur on October 15 to verify his resignation.

Referring to Article 130(8) of the Constitution, the petitioner maintained that a new chief minister can only be elected once the resignation of the incumbent has been officially accepted.

South Africa bowled out for 269, Pakistan gain 109-run lead

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South Africa

LAHORE: South Africa were dismissed for 269 in their first innings of the Lahore Test, giving Pakistan a commanding 109-run lead heading into the second innings.

Resuming on the third day at 216 for six in reply to Pakistan’s 378, the visitors lost their remaining wickets in the morning session.

 Tony de Zorzi, who started the day unbeaten on 81, completed a well-made 104 before being caught by Shaheen Afridi off Nauman Ali. Senuran Muthusamy, who resumed on 6, added only five more runs before falling to Sajid Khan for 11.

Kagiso Rabada was dismissed without scoring, also by Sajid Khan. Pakistan’s spinners dominated the innings, with Nauman Ali claiming six wickets, Sajid Khan taking three, and Salman Ali Agha picking up one.

Earlier, Pakistan had posted 378 in their first innings, with key contributions from Imam-ul-Haq (93), Salman Ali Agha (93), Shan Masood (76), and Mohammad Rizwan (75).

Dar praises US, Turkey’s role in ceasefire talks

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Dar

CAIRO: On the sidelines of the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar engaged in talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss regional developments and peace efforts.

The Foreign Office said in a statement, the two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional stability and ongoing efforts for peace in Gaza.

On the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Dar also held a separate meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar appreciated the role of the United States and Turkey in promoting a ceasefire, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for all efforts aimed at lasting peace and stability in the region.

Dar further emphasized that the international community must continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza and Palestine.

Scottish woman embraces Islam after watching Turkish series

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Scottish woman

A woman from Scotland, Julieta Lorena Martínez, has embraced Islam after being inspired by the famous Turkish historical series “Kuruluş Osman,” the sequel to Diriliş: Ertuğrul, which portrays the rise of the Ottoman Empire.

According to a statement released by the Turkish production company, Martínez developed a deep admiration for Turkish culture and history while watching the series. Her growing interest led her to study Islamic teachings, eventually leading her to embrace the faith.

Speaking to Turkish media, Julieta shared that she began watching Turkish TV series during the COVID-19 lockdown, which sparked her curiosity about Islamic teachings.

“I started watching Turkish dramas during the lockdown, and through these series, I developed an interest in learning about Islam. This curiosity encouraged me to read the Holy Quran, and two years later, inspired by Kuruluş Osman, I recited the Shahada and embraced Islam,” she said.

The acclaimed Turkish series “Diriliş: Ertuğrul” and its sequel “Kuruluş Osman” have gained worldwide popularity for their portrayal of the founding of the Ottoman Empire and its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Pakistan Army wins gold at Cambrian Patrol Exercise 2025

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Pakistan Army

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Army team secured a gold medal at Exercise Cambrian Patrol 2025, held in Wales, United Kingdom, from October 3 to 13, marking the 66th edition of the world-renowned military competition.

The exercise has retained its demanding professional standards; patrols from all across the globe had to move tactically across inhospitable terrain, covering a distance of 60 kms within 48 hours, completing specialist tasks in a contested environment.

This year, 137 teams from 36 Countries participated in the exercise and out of all these teams, Pakistan Army’ Team lead by Captain Muhammad Saad showed Exceptional Performance in the exercise and awarded with the gold medal.

It is indeed a proud moment for the whole Nation and Pakistan Army which is known for its professionalism and highest standards of training. Pakistan Army has always held Country’s flag high and will keep endeavouring in future as well.

Sohail Afridi secures 90 votes to become KP Chief Minister

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Sohail Afridi

PESHAWAR: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) nominee Sohail Afridi was elected the new Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, securing 90 votes in the provincial assembly on Sunday.

Speaker Babar Saleem Swati announced the result after the voting process concluded in the House. Prior to the ballot, he instructed that bells be rung for five minutes to ensure all absent members could return to the chamber.

The Speaker also directed lawmakers to register their attendance at the lobby gate before voting began. After a short pause, polling commenced, with Afridi winning by a comfortable margin to claim the position of leader of the House in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.1

Earlier, former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur said he resigned the same day Imran Khan instructed him to do so, emphasizing that the democratic process should not be turned into a mockery. “We will no longer tolerate what has been happening,” he warned.

Reflecting on his 19-month tenure, Gandapur stated that when his government took office, the provincial treasury had funds for only 18 days of salaries. “Today, there are Rs218 billion in the provincial exchequer,” he said, adding that while the opposition may criticize him for not allocating funds to them, “the people are satisfied because the money was spent on public welfare.”

He reaffirmed his loyalty to the party founder, saying, “Our leader is making sacrifices for us and for future generations — we stand firmly with the PTI.”

Addressing Opposition Leader KP Dr Ibadullah, said that the resignation of Ali Amin Gandapur has not yet been approved, as a Chief Minister cannot be elected as another Chief Minister.

Speaker KP Assembly Babar Saleem Swati said after addressing the opposition leader that Ali Amin Gundapur sent the resignation twice and announced his resignation in the House today. Some people want Sohail Afridi not to become the chief minister, but the constitution will not follow the wishes of the people.

Babar Saleem Swati, while reading the rolling in this regard, said that the procedure of the new leader will be in accordance with the constitution, after which the name of the elected chief minister will be announced.

Four candidates are in the running for the position. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has nominated Sohail Afridi, while the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has put forward Maulana Lutf-ur-Rehman as its candidate.

From the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Sardar Shah Jehan Yousaf is contesting, whereas the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has nominated Arbab Zarak Khan for the top provincial office.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly comprises 145 members, including 93 from the treasury benches and 52 from the opposition.

73 votes will be needed to be elected to the Leader of the House, and consultation is underway by the opposition parties to bring a joint candidate.

Newly elected KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi hails from District Khyber and entered the provincial assembly for the first time after winning the 2024 general elections.

Afridi has been associated with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for many years and previously served as the President of the Insaf Students Federation (ISF) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

During Ali Amin Gandapur’s tenure, Afridi held the position of Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Communication and Works, and was later appointed as Minister for Higher Education following a reshuffle in the provincial cabinet.

He is also a member of PTI’s Central Executive Committee, reflecting his longstanding role within the party’s organizational structure.

KP awaits new chief minister as assembly votes today

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KP awaits

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly will elect its new Chief Minister today, with four contenders vying for the top provincial position.

The candidates include Sohail Afridi from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Maulana Lutf-ur-Rehman representing the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), Sardar Shah Jehan Yousaf of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Arbab Zarak Khan from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

Ahead of the crucial vote, PTI has reinforced party discipline, administering oaths to its members to ensure unity. PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar cautioned lawmakers against defection, warning that any betrayal of the party’s nominated candidate would not be tolerated and that efforts to sway members would be firmly resisted.

The provincial assembly comprises 145 members, with 93 on the treasury benches and 52 from the opposition — numbers that could prove decisive in determining the outcome.

Today’s polling takes place amid heightened political activity, reports of behind-the-scenes lobbying, and concerns about potential defections, prompting party leaders to urge their members to stay closely aligned with official directives.

Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has formally written to Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, directing him to appear at the Governor’s House on October 15 for verification of two purported resignation letters received earlier this month.

According to the Governor’s letter, two separate sets of resignation documents dated October 8 and October 11, were received at the Governor’s House, both allegedly bearing different and inconsistent signatures.