BREAKING NEWS
Iran, Oman reach understanding on shipping route through Strait of Hormuz • More than 100 killed in India floods, heavy rains since July • Brock Lesnar announces retirement from professional wrestling • Actor Ahsan Khan urges men to empower their wives • Bollywood star Aamir Khan pays tribute to Pradeep Rawat • Pakistan beat West Indies by 8 wickets to draw Test series 1-1 • Adiala Jail rejects solitary confinement claim in Imran Khan case • Pakistan government will complete five-year term, Naqvi says • Indian actor Pradeep Rawat dies at 74 after cancer battle • Mrunal Thakur warns of legal action over AI-generated deepfake content • Fazlur Rehman warns against politicizing debate over new provinces • Pakistan posts 387, secures first-innings lead over West Indies • Pakistan exempt from new US visa bond program • Trump voices concern over oil company profits amid Iran conflict • West Indies all out for 344 against Pakistan in first innings
Advertise with us >

Pakistan News

PTI sources claim govt agreed to shift Imran Khan to hospital

by
PTI sources claim

ISLAMABAD: Sources within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have claimed that the government had agreed in principle to transfer party founder Imran Khan to a private hospital for medical treatment.

According to party insiders, the opposition had demanded that Imran Khan be kept at Shifa International Hospital for at least 10 days. The government was reportedly willing to allow him to remain at the facility until the completion of his treatment.

Sources said the government had set conditions that medical details would not be made public and that party workers would not be called to the hospital.

It was further claimed that arrangements for the transfer had been finalized between Friday and Saturday night, with vehicles prepared for Imran Khan and party leadership.

According to PTI sources, authorities contacted Imran Khan’s sisters to nominate a family representative. They initially proposed Dr. Asim and Dr. Uzma, but the government reportedly did not accept those names.

Subsequently, Dr. Burki’s name was suggested, which was also rejected, leading to frustration among Khan’s sisters. Sources said the government then proposed Qasim Zaman’s name, which raised concerns among both the family and the party.

When consensus could not be reached, the government allegedly informed the party on Sunday night that the hospital transfer would no longer be possible.

Meeting with PIMS Doctors

Party sources also stated that PTI leadership met doctors at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and pledged that details of the consultation would not be disclosed publicly.

No official statement has yet been issued by the government regarding these claims.

Security forces kill 34 militants in operations across KP and Balochistan

by
Security forces

RAWALPINDI: Security forces have killed 34 militants in multiple operations conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The military’s media wing said operations against what it described as Indian-backed proxy groups were intensified in recent days based on intelligence reports.

According to ISPR, on February 24, four separate engagements were carried out in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the killing of 26 militants linked to the banned outfit referred to as “Fitna al-Khawarij.”

An infiltration attempt near Hasan Khel in North Waziristan was foiled, where one militant was killed. The deceased was identified as an Afghan national.

In Lakki Marwat, three militants were killed during an intelligence-based operation following an exchange of fire.

In the Narmi Khel area of Bannu, 10 militants were killed in two separate encounters.

In Mir Ali, North Waziristan, security forces eliminated 12 militants.

ISPR further stated that eight militants affiliated with what it termed “Fitna al-Hindustan” were killed during a clash in the Sambaza area of Zhob, Balochistan.

The military reiterated its commitment to continuing operations against militant groups to ensure peace and stability in the country.

Pakistan vows retaliation against cross-border terrorism in Afghanistan

by
Pakistan vows

ISLAMABAD: In a Senate session, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry outlined the government’s position on recent operations in Afghanistan, emphasizing that Pakistan will no longer merely recover bodies but will deliver a decisive response, avenging every martyr’s blood.

Addressing lawmakers, Chaudhry stated that Pakistan targeted multiple locations across three Afghan provinces as a part of a carefully planned operation. He said repeated warnings had been issued to Afghanistan regarding cross-border incursions.

“Afghanistan harbors terrorist hideouts and training camps. They requested PKR 10 billion to push the Taliban across the border, which we are ready to provide—but only with a guarantee that there will be no interference in Pakistan,” he added.

Chaudhry further detailed that attacks in Pakistan’s Tirlai, Bannu, and Bajaur districts trace back to Afghan territory, highlighting that terrorism in Pakistan now has a nationwide reach. “We are not here just to collect bodies. We know how to respond,” he said.

He underscored that Pakistan seeks peace but will never compromise on national security. The recent airstrikes were intelligence-based, targeting terrorist strongholds, resulting in the elimination of approximately 100 terrorists.

These operations targeted seven locations of the proscribed TTP and Fatah-ul-Khawarij in Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost provinces, marking a decisive retaliatory measure following terrorist attacks on Pakistani soil.

Lt Col among two security personnel martyred in Bannu IBO: ISPR

by
Lt Col among two

RAWALPINDI: A Lieutenant Colonel and a soldier of the Pakistan Army were martyred in a suicide attack targeting a security forces convoy in Bannu, the military’s media wing said.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces had received intelligence about a vehicle-borne suicide bomber and were conducting an operation in the area based on the tip-off.

During the operation, troops traced militants identified as “Fitna al-Khawarij.” A suicide bomber traveling in a vehicle was intercepted in time by the leading contingent.

In desperation, the attackers rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into one of the security vehicles, resulting in the martyrdom of Lieutenant Colonel Shehzada Gulfraz and Sepoy Karamat Shah.

ISPR stated that five militants were killed during the ensuing exchange, and the timely action of security forces prevented a major tragedy in Bannu city, foiling the terrorists’ plan to target innocent civilians and personnel.

The military further noted that despite the sanctity of the holy month, militants continue cross-border terrorist activities from Afghanistan into Pakistan. ISPR said such actions demonstrate that the attackers have no connection with Islamic teachings.

It added that the Afghan Taliban government has failed to prevent its soil from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan.

Reaffirming its resolve, ISPR said Pakistan will continue indiscriminate operations against militants under the counterterrorism drive “Azm-e-Istehkam,” emphasizing that the sacrifices of brave soldiers further strengthen the nation’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability.

PSX closes week lower, 100-Index loses over 6,000 points

by
PSX closes week

KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a significant bearish trend during the outgoing week, as heavy selling pressure dragged the benchmark index sharply lower.

During the week, the KSE-100 Index plunged by 6,434 points, closing at 173,169 points, down from the previous week’s closing level of 179,603 points. The market lost six key psychological levels over the course of the week.

Out of the five trading sessions, the market remained negative on three days, while only two sessions ended in positive territory.

The benchmark index touched a weekly high of 179,969 points, while the lowest level recorded during the week stood at 169,592 points.

Over the five trading days, overall market capitalization declined by Rs756 billion, settling at Rs19,602 billion by the end of the week.

Trading activity remained robust, with approximately 3.26 billion shares changing hands, generating a total turnover of Rs187 billion.

Market experts attributed the downturn to escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, along with widespread selling pressure in key sectors, which weighed heavily on investor sentiment.

5.6 magnitude earthquake rocks Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cities

by
5.6 magnitude earthquake

PESHAWAR: Residents across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Malakand, Lower Dir, Hangu, Kohat, Bajaur, Swat, Buner, Shangla, and North Waziristan, reported feeling tremors from a recent earthquake.

The tremors were also felt in Swabi, Upper Dir, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi.

The earthquake registered a magnitude of 5.6, with its epicenter in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan at a depth of 73 kilometers.

Following the quake, residents reportedly recited Kalma Tayyiba as they evacuated their homes.

No casualties or property damage have been reported so far.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have advised people to remain alert for aftershocks.

Sustainable peace impossible without independent Palestine, says PM

by
Sustainable peace

WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that achieving sustainable peace in Gaza is Pakistan’s mission, emphasizing that the establishment of a free and sovereign Palestinian state is essential for lasting stability in the region.

Addressing the inaugural session of the Gaza Peace Board, chaired by US President Donald Trump in Washington, the Prime Minister termed his participation in the meeting an honor and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.

“Sustainable peace in Gaza is our mission. We pray for success in achieving lasting peace. Today marks a golden chapter in history for peace in the Middle East,” the Prime Minister stated.

PM Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Palestinians must be granted their rights in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions, underscoring that an independent and sovereign Palestinian state is their legitimate right.

He further stated that ceasefire violations in Gaza must come to an end to pave the way for durable peace and long-term regional stability.

The Prime Minister also appreciated President Donald Trump’s role in conflict resolution, noting that his timely intervention helped prevent escalation during tensions between Pakistan and India.

“President Trump’s intervention prevented a major catastrophe in South Asia. The ceasefire saved thousands of precious lives,” he remarked.

The Gaza Peace Board meeting aims to discuss post-conflict reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, and mechanisms to ensure sustainable peace in the region.

CTD kills 14 terrorists in operations across Quetta and Barkhan

by
CTD kills 14 terrorists

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) conducted successful operations in Quetta and Barkhan, resulting in the deaths of 14 terrorists.

According to a CTD spokesperson, the operation in Quetta’s Darkshan area led to a gunfight in which 8 terrorists were killed.

During the exchange of fire, 3 CTD personnel were injured. Weapons and explosives were recovered from the deceased, who are reportedly affiliated with a banned organization. Investigations into their identities and connections are ongoing.

Meanwhile, in Barkhan, an intelligence-based CTD operation resulted in the killing of 6 terrorists involved in sabotage activities. The spokesperson confirmed that arms and explosive materials were seized from the site.

These operations are part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and preventing attacks in Pakistan.

Ramadan moon sighted in Pakistan

by
Ramadan moon sighted

KARACHI:  The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon for Ramadan 1447 Hijri, confirming that the first fast will begin tomorrow, 19 February 2026.

The central meeting, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, was held in Peshawar. Simultaneously, zonal committee meetings were conducted in Karachi, Quetta, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and other regions. Eyewitness reports of the crescent sighting from these areas were collected and submitted to the central committee.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, the chairman said that multiple verified testimonies had been received from across the country. Based on these reports, it was unanimously decided that Ramadan will commence nationwide tomorrow.

Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad formally announced the moon sighting, confirming that Ramadan 1447 Hijri had been observed throughout Pakistan.

Initially, the central committee received 21 sighting reports from Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Charsadda, Nowshera, and Islamabad. In addition, the zonal committees submitted 6 additional testimonies, confirming the crescent’s visibility.

This announcement ensures a unified start of Ramadan across Pakistan, aligning with the tradition of moon sighting for the holy month.

KP CM announces formation of “Imran Khan Release Force” following PTI protests

by
KP CM announces

PESHAWAR:  Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Afridi, stated that the responsibility for managing protests and negotiations had been assigned to Allama Nasir Abbas and Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

The founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) entrusted them with preparing a street movement, under which the “Imran Khan Release Force” is being established.

Speaking to the media outside the Supreme Court, Afridi said the force will include members from all PTI factions, including the Insaf Students Federation (ISF) and the party’s Women Wing. The official oath-taking ceremony is planned for Peshawar after Eid, followed by an announcement of the movement’s future strategy.

Allama Raja Nasir Abbas highlighted that the PTI founder’s medical report regarding his eyes has been submitted to the Supreme Court. He described the founder’s eye condition as critical and accused jail authorities of criminal negligence, adding that legal action will be taken against those responsible.

Abbas said the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Aeen Pakistan had decided to hold a sit-in outside Parliament to protest government negligence. He condemned the arrest of lawmakers and the filing of terrorism charges, calling it an unconstitutional and unjustified approach that suppressed peaceful protest.

He also stated that Mahmood Khan Achakzai had threatened a hunger strike in response to the PTI founder’s eye injury. While some improvement has been reported, continuous monitoring is still necessary. Abbas urged that Dr. Faisal Sultan and Dr. Asim Yousuf be given access, and that the family and legal team be involved in ongoing care.

Abbas further noted that when lawyer Salman Safdar reported that 80% of the founder’s vision was affected, it caused widespread concern. He described delays in treatment as criminally negligent, emphasizing that while there has been some improvement, uncertainties remain.

Finally, Abbas said the PTI founder had sent a message requesting a meeting with Dr. Faisal Sultan. In light of the start of Ramadan, the sit-in has been concluded, but a detailed plan of action for the future will be finalized soon.