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E-Paper | December 20, 2025

Partial strike in Islamabad as lawyers divided over removal of IHC’s Justice Jahangiri

Routine attendance reported at Supreme Court, Federal Constitutional Court and Islamabad High Court; only a small number of lawyers boycotted proceedings at the sessions courts.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 07:30am

US carries out large-scale retaliatory strikes against ISIS in Syria

US President Donald Trump had vowed to retaliate after a suspected ISIS attack killed US personnel last weekend in Syria.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 07:37am

Supreme Court’s conversion of rape conviction to fornication charge draws flak

The top court had commuted the sentence of a convict from 20 years of imprisonment to five after reclassifying the offense from rape to a consensual extramarital affair.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 08:07am

US ‘very grateful’ for Pakistan’s offer to be part of Gaza stabilisation force: Marco Rubio

US secretary of state says further clarity needed before countries formally commit, expresses confidence several nations are “willing to step forward”.

Updated 20 Dec, 2025 07:32am

Pakistan demands explanation from India over drop in river flows

Flows stabilising after "extraordinary" dip; ministry reports Dec 10-16 volatility; officials also flag disruption in Jhelum inflows at Mangla.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 07:19am

In major policy reversal, govt withdraws ban on double benefits for re-hired retirees

Ministry of Finance silently issues terse notification stating that two earlier relevant orders, dated April 22 and June 19 on the subject, “are hereby withdrawn with immediate effect”.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 07:42am

Islamabad hands Afghan Taliban demarche over North Waziristan attack

"Will take all necessary measures to respond to terrorism originating from Afghan soil," FO warns.

Updated 20 Dec, 2025 07:43am

In joint letter, 5 incarcerated PTI leaders push for dialogue to steer country of crisis

The letter has been signed by Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Dr Yasmin Rashid, Omer Sarfraz Cheema, Ejaz Chaudhry and Mian Mehmoodur Rasheed.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 08:03am

Two passenger trains escape bomb blasts in Balochistan

“The targets were the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express and the Karachi-bound Bolan Mail,” officials say.

Updated 20 Dec, 2025 08:08am

US eases marijuana rules

Senior administration officials say the primary objective of the move is to expand medical research into marijuana and cannabis-derived products.

Published 20 Dec, 2025 05:29am

Bangladesh in Turmoil: Student Leader Sharif Osman Hadi Killed, Nationwide Protests Erupt

Experts Warn Trump Marijuana Rescheduling Won’t Fully Solve Legal Or Banking Challenges In US

Australia Just Banned Under-16s From Social Media: Here’s What It Really Means

Trump Expands Travel Ban: Which Countries Are Affected

Can Ukraine Trade NATO Membership for Peace?

Trump vs BBC Explained: The $10bn Lawsuit Over January 6

Strikes, Naval Blockade & Oil: Venezuela-US Update

MUST READ STORIES

Editorial: No Muslim state should be doing Israel’s dirty work by fighting Palestinian groups

‘Everything turned dark’: Bangladesh reporter recounts ordeal inside Daily Star building following attack by violent mob

Editorial: Details in recent UN report shatter any illusion that Taliban-run Afghanistan poses no threat to its neighbours

Despite the premier’s assertion, Pakistan’s economy is not ‘out of the woods’

Game review: Hades II is everything you want a video game sequel to be

Algorithmic crowd: The changing anatomy of mobs in Pakistan

In pictures: Buildings set on fire as violent protests break out in Dhaka following death of wounded youth leader

Jama Taqseem just ended and netizens have a lot to say about the final episode

US rapper Wiz Khalifa sentenced to nine months in jail in Romania over on-stage cannabis use

Wonka director Paul King tapped to work on upcoming Labubu movie

How has the move towards merit-based recruitment in education impacted learning outcomes?

Karachi’s infrastructure is killing us, literally

Dawn News English

Bangladesh in Turmoil: Student Leader Sharif Osman Hadi Killed, Nationwide Protests Erupt

Experts Warn Trump Marijuana Rescheduling Won’t Fully Solve Legal Or Banking Challenges In US

Australia Just Banned Under-16s From Social Media: Here’s What It Really Means

Trump Expands Travel Ban: Which Countries Are Affected

Can Ukraine Trade NATO Membership for Peace?

Trump vs BBC Explained: The $10bn Lawsuit Over January 6

Strikes, Naval Blockade & Oil: Venezuela-US Update

Branded Content

Fatima Fertilizer and IFC launch $60 million liquidity facility to support food security in Pakistan

The renewable facility will support uninterrupted fertilizer production in Pakistan by providing USD liquidity for critical imports strengthening food security and agricultural resilience.

K&N’s SmartCooking Recipes: Kofta Casserole

A hearty oven-baked pasta layered with koftas, rich sauce and melted cheese.

Fatima Fertilizer wins four prestigious awards at The Drum Awards 2025 in London

The company won four awards across sustainability, user-generated content, social media for good and cause-led influencer categories.

Karachi’s infrastructure is killing us, literally

Sudden variation in Chenab River’s flow affects wheat, other crops in Punjab

A letter has been written to India, seeking clarification on the matter, FO spokesperson says.

Pakistan , Updated 19 Dec, 2025 03:55am

Sudden variation in Chenab River’s flow affects wheat, other crops in Punjab

Ali Tareen among three bidders in race to get PFF’s nod for new league

Former Multan Sultans owner confirms submitting proposal on deadline day.

Sport , Published 17 Dec, 2025 10:47pm

Ali Tareen among three bidders in race to get PFF’s nod for new league

Passengers offloaded, restrained from travelling must be provided with written reasons, LHC reminds authorities

Justice Ali Zia Bajwa says no administrative discretion, however broad, can justify curbing the liberty of citizens unless “it is traceable to a clear statutory provision or legal mandate”.

Pakistan , Published 18 Dec, 2025 02:48pm

Passengers offloaded, restrained from travelling must be provided with written reasons, LHC reminds authorities

State conduct

THE use of force this week against protesters outside Adiala Jail, where former prime minister Imran Khan is...

Newspaper , Updated 18 Dec, 2025 08:47am

Islamic State Khorasan Province spokesperson arrested by Pakistani authorities: UN

Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team notes that IS-K’s ability to operate in the region degraded as a result of high-profile arrests by Pakistan.

Pakistan , Updated 19 Dec, 2025 07:59am

Islamic State Khorasan Province spokesperson arrested by Pakistani authorities: UN

Pakistan seeks massive ADB loan to tackle remaining Rs1.7tr circular debt

Govt requests lender to help stabilise national grid, improve debt affordability and foster private investment.

Newspaper , Published 18 Dec, 2025 08:08am

Pakistan seeks massive ADB loan to tackle remaining Rs1.7tr circular debt

Pakistan Navy’s fourth Hangor class submarine launched by Chinese shipyard

Submarine to undergo sea trials before being handed over to Pakistan; remaining four contracted subs to be built by Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works.

Pakistan , Published 17 Dec, 2025 06:38pm

Pakistan Navy’s fourth Hangor class submarine launched by Chinese shipyard

Three accused NCCIA officials resign as FIA probe into bribery case drags on

All nine suspects are in jail and no extensive interrogation has been conducted, claims a source.

Pakistan , Published 17 Dec, 2025 09:51pm

Three accused NCCIA officials resign as FIA probe into bribery case drags on

President Zardari approves de-notification of Justice Jahangiri as IHC judge

Move follows IHC decision to remove Justice Jahangiri from office on the grounds that his degree was "not valid" at the time of his appointment.

Pakistan , Updated 19 Dec, 2025 07:03am

President Zardari approves de-notification of Justice Jahangiri as IHC judge

CDF Field Marshal Munir reaffirms commitment to strengthening defence ties with Libya

In meeting with Libyan Armed Forces' commander in chief, both sides underscore importance of collaboration in training, capacity building, and counter-terrorism, ISPR says.

Pakistan , Updated 18 Dec, 2025 02:06pm

CDF Field Marshal Munir reaffirms commitment to strengthening defence ties with Libya

Germany to take in more than 500 stranded Afghans from Pakistan

Berlin's interior minister tells German media that govt wants all cases processed this month.

World , Published 18 Dec, 2025 06:02pm

Germany to take in more than 500 stranded Afghans from Pakistan

NCCIA uncovers alleged Ponzi network in Karachi, detains foreign nationals

Officials said to seize 'important and sensitive' data from the suspects.

Pakistan , Published 18 Dec, 2025 06:49pm

NCCIA uncovers alleged Ponzi network in Karachi, detains foreign nationals

Meeting summoned after Pakistan kabaddi player represents ‘India’ in Bahrain event

Videos and images of Ubaidullah, a prominent international kabaddi player, donning the Indian kit went viral on social media, triggering criticism.

Sport , Published 18 Dec, 2025 08:24pm

Meeting summoned after Pakistan kabaddi player represents ‘India’ in Bahrain event

FO ‘contradicts’ media reports of CDF Field Marshal Munir visiting the US, says no plan finalised

"I’m contradicting the fact that a visit has been agreed or planned,” FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi says.

Pakistan , Updated 18 Dec, 2025 07:39pm

FO ‘contradicts’ media reports of CDF Field Marshal Munir visiting the US, says no plan finalised

Imran’s sisters among 400 booked over PTI Adiala sit-in; at least 14 party supporters arrested

Fourteen party workers sent on physical remand; FIR registered over violations of anti-terrorism law, criminal conspiracy and violating Section 144.

Pakistan , Updated 17 Dec, 2025 09:06pm

Imran’s sisters among 400 booked over PTI Adiala sit-in; at least 14 party supporters arrested

‘Hottest country anywhere’: In rapid-fire speech, Trump highlights victories amid sinking approval ratings

“One year ago our country was dead ... Now we're the hottest country anywhere in the world," he says.

World , Updated 18 Dec, 2025 11:35am

‘Hottest country anywhere’: In rapid-fire speech, Trump highlights victories amid sinking approval ratings

Trump administration intends to ramp up efforts to revoke citizenship of some naturalised Americans: report

Spokesperson for US Citizenship and Immigration Services says agency's focus is on individuals who “unlawfully obtained US citizenship”.

World , Published 18 Dec, 2025 02:02pm

Trump administration intends to ramp up efforts to revoke citizenship of some naturalised Americans: report

Outrageous behaviour

MANY Muslim women in India are forced to confront misogyny as well as religious discrimination. And when the...

Newspaper , Published 18 Dec, 2025 07:51am

Watering hope and hype

Rarely, if ever, does one see an actual substantive issue being given actual substantive treatment on prime time television.

Newspaper , Updated 18 Dec, 2025 09:11am

Builders allege intimidation by ‘foreign gangs’ amid surge in extortion cases in Karachi

Abad says its members are receiving calls from Iran‑ and UAE‑based numbers, demanding up to Rs 50 million in "protection money".

Pakistan , Published 18 Dec, 2025 08:41am

Builders allege intimidation by ‘foreign gangs’ amid surge in extortion cases in Karachi

A clear indictment

YET again, the UN Security Council’s monitoring report on Afghanistan has painted a grim picture of the presence ...

Newspaper , Updated 19 Dec, 2025 09:02am

India underestimated Pakistan’s military power: former air chief

"They never expected a befitting response,” he says.

Newspaper , Updated 19 Dec, 2025 08:38am

India underestimated Pakistan’s military power: former air chief

Politicians, lawyers express outrage over removal of IHC’s Justice Jahangiri

IHC slammed for hearing case; PTI chairman demands restoration of Justice Jahangiri.

Pakistan , Updated 19 Dec, 2025 07:05am

Politicians, lawyers express outrage over removal of IHC’s Justice Jahangiri

Protests in Bangladesh ‘for repatriation of all killers’ as India cites security concerns

Police stop protesters from marching towards Indian diplomatic mission.

World , Published 18 Dec, 2025 06:21pm

Protests in Bangladesh ‘for repatriation of all killers’ as India cites security concerns

Kabul’s claim of denying militants safe haven called into question

UNSC assessment reveals some senior Taliban members increasingly view TTP as a liability, others remain supportive.

Newspaper , Updated 18 Dec, 2025 07:54am

Kabul’s claim of denying militants safe haven called into question

OPINION

Compliance dividends

Compliance with international law instruments by Pakistan has been worth it.

Ahmer Bilal Soofi

Relics of the Zina Ordinance

Sahar Bandial

Employee conduct

Parvez Rahim

Dead inside

Rafia Zakaria

Building research capacity

Faisal Bari

EDITORIAL

Gaza commitments

Like most grand schemes of the Trump administration, the Gaza plan is high on hyperbole, and low on substance.

Development delayed

FEDERAL development spending is once again being used as a shock absorber for the government’s persistent fiscal...

Rabies danger

RABIES has consistently emerged as a lethal yet overlooked health concern. Reportedly, the scourge took 22 lives in...

POPULAR OPED WRITERS Over last 24 hours

Khurram Husain

Watering hope and hype

Rarely, if ever, does one see an actual substantive issue being given actual substantive treatment on prime time television.

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Authoritative advisory opinion

Pakistan’s superior judiciary operationalised ICJ’s recent climate principles much earlier.

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False sunrises

Trump’s largesse has not erased memory of US sanctions.

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One hat too many

Napoleon viewed France not so much as a country but as a set of personal drawers.

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Afghanistan & regional paradox

Despite human rights violations at home, the Taliban have managed to establish a diplomatic presence in 39 capitals.

Rida Hosain

Gender-based violence cases must not be converted into moral debates

Meaningful change requires strengthening institutions, not tearing them down.

BUSINESS

In major policy reversal, govt withdraws ban on double benefits for re-hired retirees

Brokers suffer losses as Karachi Cotton Exchange building remains shut

Big industry output surges 8.3pc in October

Weekly inflation rises 3.7pc

PSX falters on external sector woes, profit-taking

Pakistan targets January for inaugural panda bond tranche, says finance ministry

SPORT

Abdul Subhan stars against Bangladesh as Pakistan set up U-19 Asia Cup title clash against India

Australia’s Head slams unbeaten 142 to crush England’s Ashes hopes

Morocco beat Jordan 3-2 after extra time to clinch Arab Cup

Retired Nascar driver Greg Biffle among 7 killed in US private jet crash: officials

Conway falls for 227 as New Zealand declare at 575-8 in West Indies Test

Police say 59 injured after fans riot at Colombian cup final

WORLD

US carries out large-scale retaliatory strikes against ISIS in Syria

Hamas says talks must end Israel’s truce violations

Iraq negotiates new coalition under US pressure to exclude ‘pro-Iran’ groups

2.8m Afghans have returned to Afghanistan, says UNHCR

Trump, nine firms strike deal to cut drug prices

US eases marijuana rules

Jama Taqseem just ended and netizens have a lot to say about the final episode

Images Staff Published 19 Dec, 2025 06:34pm

US rapper Wiz Khalifa sentenced to nine months in jail in Romania over on-stage cannabis use

The rapper received a fine of 3,600 Romanian lei ($829) in Romania for the incident last year.

Images Staff Published 19 Dec, 2025 12:43pm

Wonka director Paul King tapped to work on upcoming Labubu movie

The director has experience working on children's films and comedy series.

Images Staff Published 19 Dec, 2025 12:41pm

Algorithmic crowd: The changing anatomy of mobs in Pakistan

Abdul Wahab Updated 19 Dec, 2025 01:28pm

Is international law truly ‘law’?

International law is not contingent upon flawless compliance but emerges from the interplay of institutional coherence, collective recognition and structured mechanisms of accountability.

Muhammad Siddique Ali Pirzada Updated 17 Dec, 2025 01:31pm