BREAKING NEWS
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 • Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly set to marry Georgina Rodriguez on Aug 8 • Trump says Gulf States backed diplomatic path with Iran • Fuel theft surges across UK as rising prices drive daily losses • Why ‘Inception’ remains one of Hollywood’s most rewatchable films • ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ opens with $355m worldwide • Secret wedding allegation involving Varma and Urmila resurfaces • Bilawal Bhutto alleges rigging in AJK elections • PM orders comprehensive performance review of federal ministries
Advertise with us >

Pakistan News

Lahore Emerges as the Most Polluted City Globally

by
Lahore emerges

LAHORE: The provincial capital recorded one of the worst air quality readings in the world on Monday, with Lahore ranked as the most polluted city globally.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 332, placing it in the “hazardous” category. Faisalabad followed closely with an AQI of 325, while Sheikhupura recorded 311, Dera Ghazi Khan 239, Gujranwala 233, and Multan 224.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classification, an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading between 0 and 100 is considered clean and healthy, while 101 to 200 falls under the “moderately polluted but tolerable” category.

AQI readings between 300 and 500 are classified as polluted to severely polluted, posing serious health risks—particularly for individuals with heart and respiratory diseases who may experience breathing difficulties during prolonged exposure.

The EPA further states that when the AQI exceeds 500, the air quality is deemed extremely hazardous, with potential health impacts even on otherwise healthy individuals.

The Punjab government has made it mandatory for motorcycle riders to wear face masks amid worsening air pollution across the province.

Experts have warned that the worsening air quality poses serious health risks, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and wear protective masks when necessary.

Rawalpindi Test: Pakistan opts to bat first against South Africa

by
Rawalpindi Test

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan opted to bat first after winning the toss in the second and final Test against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Captain Shan Masood, after winning the toss, confirmed one change in the playing XI, with Asif Afridi coming into the side in place of Hasan Ali, who has been rested for the match.

Masood said the team aims to put up a strong total on the board and make the most of the batting conditions early in the game.

Asif Afridi will make his Test debut on behalf of Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi gave Test cap to Asif Afridi. Asif Afridi made his Test debut at the age of 39 years and 299 days.

South African captain Aiden Markram said that his side would also have opeted to bat first had they won the toss. He added that two changes have been made in the team for the Rawalpindi Test, with Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jensen have been included in the team.

Spin bowler Asif Afridi is set to make his Test debut for Pakistan in the second Test match against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The players and support staff extended their best wishes to Asif Afridi for his debut match, wishing him a successful and memorable outing in Test cricket.

It is worth mentioning that Pakistan leads the two-match Test series 1–0, after securing a 93-run victory over South Africa in the Lahore Test.

Hindu community observes Diwali, festival of lights

by
Hindu community

KARACHI: Hindu communities in Pakistan and across the globe marked the festival of Diwali on Monday, observing the occasion with traditional rituals, prayers, and festive celebrations.

Special ceremonies are being organized in temples to mark the occasion, where devotees light earthen lamps in remembrance of Lord Rama’s return, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

The festival commemorates the sacrifices of Shri Ram Chandra Ji, who spent nearly fourteen years in exile, spreading the teachings and values of Hinduism.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the Hindu community in Pakistan and abroad on the joyous occasion of Diwali.

In a message on the occasion of Diwali, President said, “As our Hindu citizens and millions around the world celebrate Diwali, this festival reminds us of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.”

He said, “The celebration of Diwali reminds us of the universal values of peace, compassion and harmony that are shared across faiths. These values are at the heart of our national life and reflect the principles of mutual respect and coexistence that Islam itself upholds.”

“The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights and complete freedom of religion to all citizens, reaffirming our commitment to a society where people of every faith live together in dignity and mutual respect,” he added.

The President said, “Our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a Pakistan where minorities would enjoy equal rights and opportunities and where every citizen could freely practice their religion. The Hindu community has been an integral part of our social, cultural, and economic fabric since the country’s inception. Their contributions in education, commerce, and public service have enriched our shared national life.”

“To our Hindu community across Pakistan, I convey my sincere wishes for happiness, prosperity, and peace. May the light of Diwali bring joy to your homes and strengthen the bonds that unite us as one nation. Happy Diwali,” he concluded.

PM Shehbaz Sharif extending Diwali greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world, reiterated his government’s commitment to providing equal rights and opportunities for progress to all communities, irrespective of their beliefs.

The prime minister, in his message on Diwali being celebrated today, said that the “festival of lights” reflected the light prevailing over darkness and hope over despair.

“As we celebrate Diwali, let us collectively look toward a future filled with positivity and unity. As Pakistanis, we take pride in the diversity of our society, which strengthens our national fabric and enriches our shared culture,” he remarked.

He expressed the pleasure over Pakistanis from Hindu and other minority communities working shoulder to shoulder with their Muslim countrymen for the progress of our country.

Concluding his message with “Happy Diwali,” the prime minister prayed that the “festival of lights” brought peace and prosperity to the lives of Hindu community and fostered unity and brotherhood among people of all faiths in the country.

President, Bilawal pay glowing tribute to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto

by
President

ISLAMABAD: On the 18th anniversary of the Karsaz tragedy, President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari honoured the memory of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for democracy.

He said that from that day until her martyrdom, her life and sacrifice remained a source of guidance and strength for all those who stood for democracy and peace.

The president said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto returned to Pakistan on this day despite clear threats to her life, adding she remained resolute after the terrorist attack at Karsaz and continued her struggle for the restoration of democracy.

“Recalling the events that followed, the president said that she visited hospitals and neighbourhoods the next day to meet the injured and console the bereaved families, reflecting her deep concern for her workers and the people of Pakistan,” President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release.

As the nation continued to confront terrorism and extremism, the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy reinforced their resolve to defeat all such forces, he further added.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid glowing tribute to the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy on its 18th anniversary, honoring their unshakable courage, unwavering loyalty, and supreme sacrifices for democracy.

In his message, Bilawal said October 18, 2007, is etched forever in the nation’s memory, marking the day when over 3 million people gathered to welcome Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto back to her homeland.

He said it was also the day when 180 brave party workers laid down their lives for the dream of a democratic Pakistan.

Bilawal recalled that dictatorship and terrorism had joined hands to launch a heinous attack on Benazir Bhutto’s caravan. “Those who attacked the caravan of Benazir wanted to extinguish the light of democracy — but the blood of our martyrs only made it shine brighter,” he said.

He vowed to carry forward the mission of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and the martyrs of Karsaz, reaffirming his commitment to building a Pakistan where democracy, equality, and justice prevail.

“The blood of our martyrs continues to illuminate our journey toward a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan,” Bilawal Bhutto Zardari added.

PCB responds after Afghanistan withdraws from tri-nation series

by
PCB

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a statement following Afghanistan Cricket Board’s (ACB) announcement that it will not participate in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20 Series scheduled to be held in Pakistan in November.

Earlier, the ACB confirmed in an official statement that Afghanistan will not take part in the series, which was set to feature Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan.

Responding to the development, a PCB spokesperson said that the Tri-Nation T20 Series will proceed as per schedule, adding that discussions are underway to invite a replacement team. “Arrangements are ongoing, and a final decision will be made soon,” the spokesperson added.

The Tri-Nation T20 Tournament is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 17 to 29, with Pakistan and Sri Lanka confirmed as participating teams.

Meanwhile, diplomatic sources indicate that Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban administration have agreed to maintain the ceasefire, signaling a potential easing of tensions amid broader regional developments.

Taliban Fury Erupts: Afghanistan Blames Pakistan for Twin Drone Strikes on Kabul, Demands UN Probe

by
Taliban blames Pakistan, drone strikes, Kabul drone, attack 2025, Afghanistan, Pakistan, border conflict, TTP militants, Durand Line,

Afghanistan’s Taliban government has accused Pakistan of launching twin drone strikes on Kabul’s outskirts, killing at least 12 civilians and wounding dozens more in what they term a “cowardly act of aggression.”

The attacks, which struck a bustling marketplace and a residential compound in the Logar province border area, have plunged already frayed bilateral ties into crisis mode, with Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid vowing “severe repercussions” unless Islamabad apologizes and compensates victims.

Eyewitness accounts describe low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles—reminiscent of U.S. Predator drones used in past counter-terror ops—unleashing precision-guided missiles around dawn. “The sky lit up like fireworks from hell; children were playing outside,” recounted survivor Fatima Khan, whose home was reduced to rubble. Afghan state media aired footage of smoldering craters and grieving families, amplifying calls for an emergency UN Security Council session to condemn the “violation of sovereignty.” Mujahid, in a fiery address from the Arg Palace, linked the strikes to Pakistan’s hunt for Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, claiming the targets were innocent Pashtun traders, not insurgents.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office swiftly rebutted the allegations, labeling them “baseless propaganda” orchestrated by the Taliban to deflect from their sheltering of TTP operatives. “Our forces operate solely within our borders against threats to national security,” a spokesperson insisted, referencing last week’s suicide bombing that claimed seven Pakistani soldiers. Yet, independent analysts, including the International Crisis Group, point to mounting evidence: Satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies shows unusual drone activity near the Durand Line, corroborating Afghan radar logs.

This aerial incursion follows Pakistan’s ground incursions into Khost and Paktika, where TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud allegedly evaded capture. With the porous 2,640-km border a hotbed for smuggling and skirmishes, experts fear a tit-for-tat cycle could draw in regional powers. China, via its Kabul embassy, urged restraint to protect Belt and Road investments, while India watched warily, offering humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

As Taliban militias mobilize along the frontier and Pakistan deploys additional troops, diplomatic channels—mediated by Qatar—face their sternest test. The UN’s special envoy for Afghanistan warned of “humanitarian catastrophe” if escalation persists, echoing global jitters over South Asia’s nuclear-armed neighbors. In Kabul’s streets, anti-Pakistan graffiti proliferates, signaling a rift that parole offers from Imran Khan may struggle to mend.

Imran Khan’s Bold Offer: Ex-PM Pledges to Mediate Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions in Exchange for Parole

by
imran khan parole, pakistan taliban mediation, pti afghanistan talks, border tensions 2025, shehbaz sharif crisis

Islamabad, October 17, 2025 – In a dramatic twist amid spiraling border clashes, jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan has proposed mediating the escalating Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict, but only if granted temporary release on parole.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader, incarcerated since 2023 on charges he deems politically motivated, conveyed the offer through his legal team, citing his “unique understanding” of Taliban dynamics from his time in power.

Khan’s message, relayed via a statement from PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan, emphasizes de-escalation to prevent “catastrophic war.” “As someone who forged ties with Afghan leaders, I can bridge this divide and save lives,” Khan reportedly said in a prison note smuggled out yesterday. The proposal arrives hours after a TTP suicide bombing killed seven soldiers in North Waziristan, which PTI links to unchecked militancy under the current regime. It also follows Pakistan’s contested airstrikes on alleged TTP hideouts in Khost and Paktika, prompting Taliban retaliation threats and civilian casualties.

Government sources dismissed the overture as “opportunistic,” with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accusing Khan of “grandstanding from Adiala Jail.” Yet, allies like Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman hinted at openness, calling it a “patriotic gesture” amid fears of refugee influxes and economic strain from border closures. Analysts note Khan’s history: As PM, he hosted Taliban talks in Doha and advocated Pashtun reconciliation, earning him the moniker “Taliban Khan” from critics.

The offer coincides with China’s quiet mediation push, as Beijing—Pakistan’s all-weather ally—urges dialogue to safeguard CPEC routes. U.S. diplomats, fresh from maritime security pacts with Islamabad, expressed cautious support for any peace initiative. PTI supporters rallied outside the Supreme Court today, chanting “Free Khan, Save Pakistan,” blending domestic unrest with regional peril.

As the Durand Line simmers, Khan’s parole bid could reshape narratives—or deepen divides. Will Shehbaz Sharif’s coalition bite? Observers say it’s a high-stakes gamble in a powder keg

Punjab Cracks Down: Authorities Push for Ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan Amid Violent Protests

by
tlp ban punjab, tehreek labbaik protests, blasphemy muridke 2025, section 144 lahore, pti criticism tlp

Punjab’s provincial government has escalated its crackdown on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), formally seeking a nationwide ban on the hardline Islamist group following a wave of violent protests that paralyzed major cities and resulted in clashes injuring over 50 people.

The move, announced by Punjab Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, cites TLP’s alleged role in inciting “anti-state activities” during recent demonstrations over the controversial “Muridke blasphemy incident,” where a factory owner was lynched by a mob.

In a petition filed before the Lahore High Court (LHC), the government accused TLP of violating Section 144 restrictions and orchestrating attacks on police outposts in Gujranwala and Sialkot. “This is not religious fervor; it’s organized anarchy threatening national security,” Tarar stated in a press briefing, flanked by provincial police chief Usman Anwar. Security forces raided TLP’s central secretariat in Lahore early today, sealing offices and arresting over 200 cadres, including mid-level leaders. Eyewitness videos circulating on social media showed tear gas volleys dispersing crowds chanting anti-government slogans near the provincial assembly.

The unrest traces back to last week’s alleged desecration case in Muridke, which TLP framed as a “blasphemy outrage,” mobilizing thousands for a “Long March” to Islamabad. Critics, including human rights groups, decry the ban push as a ploy to silence dissent, pointing to TLP’s history of electoral gains—securing 2.2 million votes in 2018—despite past proscriptions. “Banning TLP risks radicalizing more youth; dialogue is the only path,” warned Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazl) spokesperson Asad Qaiser.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s coalition, already strained by border tensions, faces a delicate balancing act. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured minority communities of protection while hinting at federal support for the ban under anti-terrorism laws. Opposition voices, led by PTI’s Asad Umar, slammed the action as “fascist,” vowing parliamentary resistance.

As Punjab enforces curfews in hotspot districts, the LHC hearing scheduled for October 20 could redefine Pakistan’s religious-political landscape. With Ahl-e-Sunnat Wal Jamaat allies issuing shutdown threats, the province braces for fallout in this tinderbox of faith and fury.

Escalating Border Tensions: Suicide Attack Kills Seven Pakistani Soldiers Amid Airstrike Backlash

by
pakistan afghanistan war, ttp attack, border security, taliban drone strikes, imran khan parole

In a brazen assault that has further inflamed Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, a suicide bomber backed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) rammed a vehicle laden with explosives into a military compound in North Waziristan, near the volatile Afghan border, killing seven soldiers and injuring several others.

The attack, captured in a viral video showing a massive fireball engulfing the facility, marks a deadly escalation in cross-border militancy, with security forces now on high alert across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The strike comes just days after Pakistan’s alleged airstrikes on Taliban targets in Kabul, which Afghan officials claim killed civilians and targeted TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud—claims vehemently denied by Islamabad. Mehsud, the elusive TTP chief, surfaced in a defiant video message today, mocking reports of his death and vowing retaliation against Pakistani forces. “This is not the end; it’s the beginning of our fight,” he declared, as footage circulated widely on social media, fueling public outrage and speculation about intelligence failures .

Former Indian diplomat Amar Jit Singh issued a stark warning, labeling Pakistan’s incursions a “blunder of the century” that could unleash “disastrous consequences,” including full-scale war with the Taliban regime. “Poking the bear across the Durand Line invites chaos,” Singh told Hindustan Times, echoing fears of a regional spillover amid ongoing U.S.-Pakistan defense talks aimed at bolstering maritime security.

Domestically, the crisis intersects with brewing unrest from Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protests. Authorities sealed TLP offices and mosques in Islamabad, imposing Section 144 restrictions in Lahore to curb violent demonstrations over the alleged “Muridke massacre.” The TLP-led Ahl-e-Sunnat alliance issued an ultimatum for justice, threatening nationwide shutdowns if demands aren’t met by week’s end.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened an emergency National Security Council meeting, assuring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s new Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur of federal support. Analysts warn that without diplomatic de-escalation, these flashpoints could destabilize South Asia further. As border patrols intensify and evacuation drills begin in frontier villages, Pakistan braces for what may be its most precarious autumn in years

Gold prices surge by Rs14,100 per tola

by
Gold prices

KARACHI: In a major upward movement, gold prices across Pakistan hit new all-time highs on Friday, reflecting strong gains in both local and global markets.

According to the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Association, the price of per tola gold soared by Rs14,100, reaching an all-time high of Rs456,900.

Similarly, the rate of 10 grams of gold increased by Rs12, 089, pushing it to Rs391,718.

In the international bullion market, gold prices surged by $141, touching a record high of $4,358 per ounce.

Meanwhile, the price of silver rose by Rs167 per tola, settling at Rs5,504.

Gold prices in Pakistan have risen sharply by Rs54,800 per tola over the past month following the suspension of gold imports, according to official data.

Documents from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) indicate a likelihood of further price hikes, as gold imports have remained at zero for the fourth consecutive month.

The report revealed that the ongoing import ban has driven up gold prices by nearly Rs86,000 per tola in just four months. In June 2025, the per tola price stood at Rs356,900 in local bullion markets.

Official data also showed that gold imports fell by 100% year-on-year in September, with no gold imported during the first quarter of the current fiscal year.

The documents stated that not a single tola of gold was imported in September, whereas the last import occurred in May 2025, amounting to 9 kilograms. During the same month last year, Pakistan had imported 55 kilograms of gold worth over $4.6 million.

The report further noted that February 2025 recorded the highest gold imports of the year, with 43 kilograms valued at more than $4.06 million.