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

Suicide bombing in Islamabad Mosque-Imambargah kills 31

by
Suicide bombing

ISLAMABAD: A devastating suicide bombing inside a mosque and imambargah in Islamabad’s Tarlai area during Friday prayers has left at least 31 people dead and more than 169 injured, officials confirmed.

According to police, the explosion occurred during the second unit of prayer, while worshippers were in prostration, shattering windows of nearby buildings due to the blast’s intensity.

The attacker, identified as a member of Fitna al-Khawarij, attempted to enter the mosque but detonated himself at the main entrance after being stopped, resulting in massive casualties. Police and bomb disposal squads, along with rescue teams, arrived immediately at the scene.

Hospital Response and Casualties

Hospital authorities reported that more than 100 injured were admitted to different medical facilities:

PIMS Hospital: 60 patients

Polyclinic: 13 patients

Federal General Hospital: 27 patients

Benazir Hospital: 2 patients

Due to limited capacity at PIMS, many injured were transferred to hospitals across Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Eyewitness Account

Sources confirmed the attack took place during Friday prayer’s second unit, while worshippers were in sujood (prostration). The attacker initially opened fire, exchanged shots with security personnel, and ultimately detonated himself at the mosque entrance.

The Inspector General of Islamabad disclosed that his cousin’s son was also among the victims, who was praying in the three-story building at the time.

Government Reaction

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the Tarlai attack, expressing grief over the loss of lives and praying for a speedy recovery of the injured.

The Prime Minister met with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and directed an immediate investigation to identify and hold the responsible parties accountable.

He emphasized that those behind the attack must face strict punishment, warning that no one would be allowed to spread violence or insecurity in the country.

The Prime Minister also instructed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured and tasked the Health Minister with overseeing the situation.

SHC forms judicial commission to probe Gul Plaza tragedy

by
SHC

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has constituted a judicial commission to investigate the deadly fire incident at Gul Plaza, a well-known shopping center located on M.A. Jinnah Road, Karachi.

The tragic incident occurred on January 17, 2026, when a massive fire broke out at Gul Plaza, claiming the lives of more than 70 people. Following the incident, the Sindh government wrote a letter to the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court on January 29, requesting a judicial inquiry into the matter. The SHC has now responded to that request.

Based on the Sindh Tribunals of Inquiry Ordinance 1969 and the Terms of Reference submitted by the Sindh government, the Sindh High Court has formed a single-member judicial commission headed by Justice Agha Faisal. The commission will investigate the fire incident and determine its causes and responsibility.

The duration of the commission and other procedural details will be formally notified by the Sindh government.

According to a letter issued by the Registrar’s Office of the Sindh High Court, all relevant records and documents related to the incident are to be presented before Justice Agha Faisal. The Sindh Home Department has also been informed in this regard.

The Gul Plaza fire remains one of the deadliest fire incidents in Karachi’s recent history, raising serious concerns over building safety and fire prevention measures.

High-Level Visit: Pakistan signs multiple agreements with Kazakhstan

by
High-Level Visit

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly received Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the Prime Minister’s House, marking the beginning of a high-level visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation.

Upon arrival, President Tokayev was presented with a guard of honor, and the national anthems of both countries were played.

Prime Minister Sharif introduced members of his federal cabinet to the Kazakh president, who in turn introduced his delegation.

A formal reception was held in honor of the Kazakh president, attended by senior officials and diplomatic delegations from both countries.

During a detailed meeting following the reception, Prime Minister Sharif and President Tokayev discussed matters concerning bilateral relations, regional security, and cooperation in multiple sectors. Both leaders emphasized strengthening ties between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.

Signing of MOUs and Agreements

The visit included the signing of 19 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and agreements aimed at expanding cooperation. The leaders also signed a joint communiqué, described as a major step forward in bilateral relations.

Key areas covered by the agreements include:

Cooperation in UN peacekeeping operations

Partnerships in mining and petroleum sectors

Prisoner exchange programs

Maritime sector collaboration

Transit trade agreements and customs cooperation

Partnerships in Pakistan Railways

Climate change initiatives

Collaboration in virtual assets, AI, and digital development

Protection and veterinary sector cooperation

Officials highlighted that these agreements will facilitate future technological cooperation and digital partnerships between the two countries.

The signing ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal.

This visit and the accompanying agreements underscore a strengthened Pakistan-Kazakhstan partnership across economic, technological, and strategic domains.

Shab-e-Barat observed tonight across Pakistan

by
Shab-e-Barat

Muslims across Pakistan are observing Shab-e-Barat tonight, commencing after Maghrib prayers, marking one of the most spiritually significant nights in the Islamic calendar.

Falling on the 15th of Sha’ban, the night is dedicated to prayers, reflection, and seeking divine forgiveness.

Worshippers are engaging in Quran recitations, voluntary (Nafl) prayers, and heartfelt supplications, asking for mercy and blessings for themselves and their families.

Many believers are also visiting graveyards to remember departed loved ones, continuing a longstanding tradition of reverence.

Known as the Night of Forgiveness, Shab-e-Barat emphasizes introspection, repentance, and spiritual renewal in preparation for Ramadan. Religious scholars highlight its profound significance, encouraging devotees to practice compassion, humility, and piety.

Communities across the country are also participating in charitable acts, distributing food, and supporting the less fortunate, reflecting the night’s spirit of generosity and benevolence. Mosques nationwide have arranged extended night prayers, allowing devotees to engage in sustained worship.

Shab-e-Barat continues to unite Muslims across South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, offering a moment for collective devotion and spiritual fortification.

Pakistan invited to participate in US–Iran talks: Foreign Office confirms

by
Pakistan invited

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office has confirmed that Islamabad has been invited to participate in talks between the United States and Iran.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi said that Pakistan has received a formal invitation to attend the US–Iran negotiations.

According to diplomatic sources, the talks are scheduled to take place this week in Istanbul. The sources revealed that the negotiations were made possible through back-channel diplomatic efforts, with Pakistan and Türkiye playing a key role in facilitating the process.

Meanwhile, a foreign news agency quoted Iranian officials as saying that US–Iran nuclear talks will resume on Friday in Türkiye. The negotiations had remained stalled since May 2023, following five previous rounds.

A regional official stated that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Pakistan, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates have also been invited to Istanbul to attend the talks.

Iranian diplomatic sources said Tehran is neither optimistic nor pessimistic about the Istanbul negotiations, adding that the talks will determine whether the United States is serious about pursuing meaningful and result-oriented dialogue.

The Iranian sources further emphasized that Iran’s defensive preparedness remains at its highest level, stressing that the country is ready for any situation and that Iran’s defense capabilities are non-negotiable.

Sindh to upgrade 300 Rabies Treatment Centres across province

by
Sindh to upgrade

KARACHI: The Sindh government has announced plans to upgrade 300 treatment and prevention centres under the Rabies Control Program Sindh (RCPS) to ensure timely and accessible care for rabies patients.

Chief Secretary Sindh, Asif Hyder Shah, who chaired a meeting on the program, said that rabies treatment facilities will be available every 10 to 15 kilometers across the province. “All 300 rabies centres in Sindh districts will be upgraded,” he confirmed.

Shah emphasized that the government has adopted a comprehensive and proactive approach to address rabies. Medicines and vaccines will be procured, and the centres will be upscaled in phases with enhanced facilities, standardized protocols, and improved service delivery.

The meeting also highlighted that staff members of the rabies control program will receive training to improve technical skills and clinical capacity. In addition, a province-wide awareness campaign will be launched to educate people on the importance of timely treatment.

Rabies is a preventable viral disease primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected dog or animal. It affects the central nervous system, causing severe neurological symptoms, and can be fatal if left untreated.

Another rabies death reported in Karachi

A man in Karachi has died after contracting rabies from a dog bite, marking the second fatality from the disease in Sindh this year.

According to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), the deceased, Karamat, was bitten by a dog three months ago and developed rabies.

He was admitted to the hospital on January 8. Karamat, aged 42, was a resident of Gulshan-e-Maymar and worked as a plumber.

The Sindh Health Department confirmed that rabies has now claimed two lives in the province in 2026.

PM Shehbaz, WB President praise cooperation across multiple sectors

by
PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with World Bank President Ajay Banga, who is on his first official visit to Pakistan in his capacity as head of the global financial institution.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed Ajay Banga and appreciated the World Bank’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic growth and reform agenda.

 He said the government is implementing a comprehensive reform program tailored to national needs, with a strong focus on sustainable and inclusive economic development.

The prime minister emphasized that the government remains committed to wide-ranging administrative reforms aimed at promoting job-led economic growth.

He also acknowledged the World Bank’s assistance in key sectors, including infrastructure development, agribusiness, digital transformation, energy, and the promotion of private sector investment.

Shehbaz Sharif further termed the cooperation under the World Bank Group’s Country Partnership Framework as commendable, noting its importance in supporting Pakistan’s long-term development objectives.

World Bank President Ajay Banga thanked the prime minister for the warm reception and hospitality, and lauded the Government of Pakistan’s ongoing reform efforts. He reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to further deepening collaboration with Pakistan under the “One World Bank Group” approach.

CDF Munir engages Libyan Military Chief on joint defence initiatives

by
CDF Munir engages

RAWALPINDI: Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces Field Marshal Khalifa Abu-al-Qasim Haftar, along with deputy commander Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Field Marshal Asim Munir at General Headquarters (GHQ).

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, with particular focus on security dynamics in respective regions and professional cooperation.

The discussion underscored the importance of continued engagement and collaboration between the Armed Forces of Pakistan and Libya.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir welcomed the distinguished guests and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Libya. He emphasized Pakistan’s support for peace, stability, and institutional development in Libya.

The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, reflecting the longstanding friendly relations between Pakistan and Libya.

Earlier, on arrival at Noor Khan Airbase, Field Marshal Khalifa Abu-al-Qasim Haftar was received by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF.

The dignitary also paid homage to Shuhada and laid wreath at martyrs memorial at GHQ.c

Fire breaks out in Karachi’s busy mobile market

by
Fire breaks out

KARACHI: A fire erupted on the second floor of Al-Najeebi Mobile Market in Saddar, Karachi, prompting immediate response from the city’s fire brigade. Three fire engines are currently battling the blaze.

Officials from the market association reported that several people are trapped inside the building. The fire reportedly started in one vehicle and quickly spread to other vehicles in the vicinity.

Rescue teams are evacuating people from the 15-story building to ensure their safety.

On the other hand, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has taken immediate notice of the fire that broke out at the mobile market in Saddar, Karachi.

The Chief Minister has sought a detailed report from the Commissioner of Karachi and instructed authorities to carry out immediate rescue and relief operations in the affected buildings.

Murad Ali Shah emphasized that the causes of the fire and those responsible will be thoroughly investigated. He added that the protection of citizens’ lives and property remains the government’s top priority.

This incident comes just days after a massive fire at Gul Plaza Mall in the same area, which claimed more than 70 lives, raising serious concerns over fire safety in Karachi’s commercial districts.

Saudi visa biometric now essential for Hajj 2026 applicants

by
Saudi visa biometric

ISLAMABAD: An important update has been issued for pilgrims intending to perform Hajj this year, as biometric verification has been declared mandatory for obtaining a Saudi Hajj visa.

According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, pilgrims are advised to complete their biometric verification at home through the Saudi “Visa Bio” application as early as possible. The biometric process is compulsory for the issuance of a Hajj visa.

The spokesperson added that if biometric verification cannot be completed through the app, pilgrims must visit the Saudi Tasheer Centre before February 8 to complete the process.

The ministry has clearly stated that Hajj visas will not be issued without biometric verification.

Earlier, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf, while addressing a training workshop at a Haji Camp, emphasized that participation in both phases of Hajj training is mandatory. He warned that pilgrims who fail to attend the training sessions may be deprived of performing Hajj.

He further informed that Hajj training workshops are currently underway at more than 200 locations across the country.

The first phase of training will continue until February 14, while the second phase will be conducted after the month of Ramadan.

The federal minister highlighted that Hajj training helps pilgrims learn the correct performance of rituals, awareness of Saudi laws and arrangements, crowd management safety, discipline, patience, and the spirit of collective worship.

He added that performing Hajj without proper training increases the risk of mistakes and mismanagement during the pilgrimag