News Archives for Latest - 2026-01-29

Sindh

NAB says no inquiry underway into misuse of funds for Sukkur, Guddu barrage projects

“It is unequivocally clarified that no such inquiry or investigation is underway in this matter at NAB Sukkur,” it says.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 11:29pm

Global problems will not be solved by one power ‘calling the shots’, says UN chief

"Nor will they be solved by two powers carving the world into rival spheres of influence,” he says.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 11:06pm

Jurists’ body and partner organisations condemn Imaan and Hadi’s ‘arbitrary arrest’, conviction

Joint statement says both lawyers have faced "targeted reprisals, including harassment through judicial processes, for their human rights and legal work".

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 11:49pm

Bangladesh-Pakistan flights resume after 14 years

Inaugural flight lands at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, receives water cannon salute.

Updated 30 Jan, 2026 12:02am

Cricket

Pakistan’s middle-order problems laid bare in opening T20 win over Australia

Pakistan’s middle-order problems fail to go away and were laid bare by Australia’s second-string bowling attack.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:09pm

Cricket

Amid uncertainty over Pakistan’s T20 World Cup participation, Iceland quips it is ‘unavailable’ to replace Green Shirts

“Our captain, a professional baker, needs to attend to his oven, our ship captain needs to steer his vessel, and our bankers need to go bankrupt (again)," it jests.

Updated 30 Jan, 2026 12:27am

PM Shehbaz congratulates nation on completion of PIA’s privatisation

Govt and Arif Habib-led consortium signed documents pertaining to the transaction at a ceremony, where CDF Asim Munir was also present; consortium to also acquire remaining 25pc PIA shares.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 09:22pm

Sindh

Sindh govt announces judicial inquiry into deadly Gul Plaza blaze

Sharjeel Memon says SHC CJ will be requested to appoint a serving judge to “review everything and decide on it”; Civil Defence officials among those suspended.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 08:09pm

Where did the Taj Mahal Diamond necklace Margot Robbie wore to the Wuthering Heights premiere come from?

The necklace has a long history, tied to Mughal empresses and Hollywood movie stars.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 05:23pm

South Asia

India should consider age-based curbs on social media, adviser says

“Policies on age-based access limits may be considered, as younger users are more vulnerable to compulsive use and harmful content,” India’s chief economic adviser proposes.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 05:22pm

Editorial: Trump should listen to regional voices and approach Iran with respect if he is serious about peace

The uneasiness of Iran’s neighbours at the thought of fresh hostilities is understandable.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 04:45pm

Pakistan committed to working with EU on trade initiatives, especially through GSP+: PM Shehbaz

Reaffirms Pakistan's commitment to further strengthen cooperation with the EU in all areas of mutual interest.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:20pm

Foreign Office ‘does not subscribe’ to judge’s opinion on ‘terrorist states’ in Imaan Mazari case

"This judgment is the view of the learned judge," FO spokesperson says in weekly briefing; in his verdict, the judge had stated that Cuba, North Korea, Iran and Syria were designated as "terrorist states".

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 08:27pm

‘I was ashamed’: Fatima Bhutto explains the personal story behind her new memoir

The Hour of the Wolf, she says, came from a relationship she struggled to talk about.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 03:56pm

Oil prices gain 1.5pc on increasing concerns of Iran attack

Citi analysts warn geopolitical escalation could push prices to as high as $72 a barrel for Brent over the next three months.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 03:50pm

Cricket

Saim’s all-round show takes Pakistan past Australia in first T20

All-rounder Ayub takes two wickets, scores a blistering 40 runs; this is Pakistan's first T20I victory against Australia in more than seven years.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 09:21pm

Measuring early child development key to ‘lifelong health’, experts say

WHO-developed tool, which measures cognitive, language, motor, and socio-emotional skills in children up to 36 months old, was demonstrated in Karachi.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 03:25pm

Punjab

KP CM Afridi leaves Adiala after failing to meet jailed PTI chief Imran Khan

"We are waiting for a meeting between Imran Khan sahib and his family and personal physician,” he says.

Updated 30 Jan, 2026 12:49pm

Nicki Minaj says she’s probably Donald Trump’s number one fan

The rapper's allegiance to the American president comes at a time when other celebrities are publicly criticising US government policies.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 03:32pm

Imran Abbas thinks politicians should take Karachi’s problems as seriously as they take Tabish Hashmi’s jokes

He came out in support of the comedian after Information Minister Sharjeel Memon chided him for remarks on the city’s administration.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 03:00pm

Punjab

3 killed, 3 arrested during attempt to steal PTCL cables in Punjab’s Mandi Bahauddin

Police transfer bodies to DHQ Hospital for post-mortem, arrested individuals shifted to Civil Lines police station.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 02:50pm

PM Shehbaz, Iranian president discuss ‘evolving regional situation’

Underscore importance of sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement for promoting peace; FM Dar stresses importance of dialogue, diplomacy in call with Iran's Araghchi.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 07:43pm

UK’s PM Starmer tells Xi he wants ‘sophisticated’ ties with China

British PM says “really good progress” made on issues, including whisky tariffs and visa-free travel.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 01:25pm

Farhan Saeed on music, fame, and why ‘a musician’s home is the album’

Calling Manzar the most romantic song on his recent album, the singer said he dedicated the second track to his wife, Urwa.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 01:13pm

Karachi’s stray animals have found friends and protectors in the city’s young residents

For many young people, stopping to help isn’t activism, it’s reflex.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 12:55pm

Sindh

In letter to SHC CJ, Sindh governor seeks constitution of judicial commission for Gul Plaza inferno

“Given the gravity of the incident and the widespread public concern, there is a compelling need for a transparent, independent, and credible inquiry," says Tessori.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 01:24pm

India’s gold demand to fall in 2026 as jewellery slump offsets investment rise

The CEO of the World Gold Council's India operations notes that jewellery buyers prefer stable prices of gold, and the volatile, rising prices in recent months have far outstripped consumer budgets.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 12:22pm

Middle East

Trump weighs Iran strikes to inspire renewed protests, sources say

Two US sources familiar with the discussions say Trump wanted to create conditions for “regime change”.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 12:03pm

Imran Khan underwent ‘20-minute medical procedure’ at Islamabad’s Pims, confirms info minister

Attaullah Tarar reveals PTI founder was taken to Pims on Saturday night; says jailed ex-premier is "absolutely healthy"; PTI condemns Imran’s "secret transfer" to hospital.

Updated 31 Jan, 2026 11:25am

South Asia

Sri Lanka boosts T20 World Cup security with eye on India-Pakistan matches

“In these disputes among India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, we are remaining neutral, all of these are friendly nations,” cricket secretary says.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 11:45am

Punjab

Pakistan armed forces undergoing major transformation in multiple domains: CDF Munir

During Bahawalpur visit, Field Marshal Asim Munir says armed forces "embracing and absorbing technology at a rapid pace".

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 01:02pm

Top Featured

Tirah: buried under snow and circumstance

The plan for state intervention in the valley was fully mapped out in the summer of 2025. Fresh off the heels of a successful operation in Bajaur, the authorities were optimistic. But they hadn’t reckoned with the weather ... or Sohail Afridi.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 05:03pm

KP & FATA

At least 3 terrorists killed after security forces launch large-scale operation in Bannu’s Domel

Continuous surveillance by drones and helicopters is being carried out in the region; heavy exchange of fire reported from the area.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 04:03pm

While we owe more than what we have in foreign exchange, the country is not ready to grow

Against the depletion of foreign exchange reserves, the battle is still on.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 09:47am

Afghan Taliban’s new penal code is structurally unjust and intellectually inconsistent

The new penal code reveals a troubling philosophy of governance.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 09:33am

At the UN Security Council, Pakistan reaffirms support for Palestinian statehood

Ambassador Ahmad reaffirms Pakistan’s solidarity with the Palestinian people “remains firm and unwavering”.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 09:26am

Editorial: Without a shift away from stop-gaps, levies like super tax risk becoming a permanent substitute for tax reform

The levy confirms the state’s inability to effectively bring untaxed or undertaxed segments into the net.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 09:10am

Luxury on display, taxes under scrutiny: How FBR’s Lifestyle Monitoring Cell tracks the rich

Relying on open-source intelligence, the cell represents a departure from paper-based scrutiny towards real-time observation of wealth, behaviour and spending.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 09:05am

Punjab

346 Walled City buildings dangerous, 92 vacated, WCLA tells court

Report says rooftops of dangerous buildings unsafe for Basant-related activities.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:38am

Punjab

Motorcyclists without safety rods to be fined in Lahore

CCPO says zero tolerance for aerial firing and action will be taken against parents or guardians of children for illegal kite flying.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:49am

Punjab

Punjab Assembly opposition leader slams govt over ‘misplaced’ priorities

Criticises ban on ‘PTI kites’; speaker stresses decentralisation of powers.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:45am

KP & FATA

Bara civil society resents federal ministers’ ‘seasonal migration’ claim

Tallal Chaudhry accuses PTI of concocting narrative to "hide their corruption"; says any military action will only be launched "after informing everyone".

Published 29 Jan, 2026 08:13am

Business

ECC okays offloading 0.8m tonnes of wheat

Committee also approves Rs66bn in supplementary grants.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 07:56am

Business

Textile exporters demand relief package

Seek broad-based fiscal space to compete globally.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 08:56am

Business

Govt steps up efforts to revive rice exports

PM Shehbaz tasks Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan with holding meetings with key trading partners to explore fresh opportunities for rice exports.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 07:54am

Business

Gold price soars to Rs551,662 per tola

All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association (APSGJA) reports a significant increase in the world gold price.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 07:53am

Business

FPCCI disputes power circular debt report

Apex trade body alleges the parking of financial liabilities outside balance sheets, particularly in the case of rising KE payables.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 07:53am

Business

Pakistan, Sri Lanka launch digital partnership

Discussions held on expanding industrial collaboration and increasing bilateral trade.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 07:52am

Business

Aggressive super tax recovery opposed

Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry cautions that demanding large tax payments in a single tranche would disrupt business operations.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 07:51am

KP & FATA

Peshawar High Court seeks notification about formation of panel to resolve LG issues

Local council heads want their tenure extended for three years.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:11am

KP & FATA

Student shot dead over TikTok dispute in Charsadda

Slain ninth-grade student has been identified as Salman.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:59am

KP & FATA

Military operations have devastated tribal districts: Afridi

CM rejects Centre’s claim about voluntary migration of Tirah people.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 10:06am

Islamabad

UK-based charity to expand orphan sponsorship programme in AJK

‘Orphans in Need’ currently supporting 1,200 orphaned children in AJK, plans to expand sponsorship programme to cover 2,000 children.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Islamabad

AJK cabinet okays health card, reviews progress on agreement with Awami committee

AJK PM Rathore says government giving top priority to public welfare, education, healthcare and development projects.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Islamabad

Parliamentary committee seeks institutionalisation of Peca

Chairperson Dr Nafisa Shah says Peca 2025 must be implemented in letter and spirit.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

International

Starmer arrives in China, encourages firms to seize opportunities

First visit to China by a British prime minister since 2018; Starmer’s trip follows tensions with Trump over his threats to seize Greenland.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 09:24am

Middle East

Hamas says it’s ready to transfer governance of Gaza to Palestinian committee

PA deputy minister Ali Shaath is expected to enter the strip once Rafah crossing reopens.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 09:27am

International

Ancient ceremony confirms Mullally as Church of England’s first woman head

Mullally took an oath of allegiance as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

International

Fresh Russian strikes kill three in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says the bombardment undermined peace efforts.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 09:20am

Sindh

Opposition parties unanimously reject Gul Plaza fire probe report

Muttahida says blaming "innocent child" for blaze is absurd; calls for a federal inquiry commission.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Sindh

Sindh govt, NAB join hands to retrieve state land

NAB chairman lauds the Sindh government for its unwavering support.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Sindh

Contractors level graft allegations against officials of Karachi Metropolitan Corporation

Karachi Constructors Association claims that development funds being siphoned off through manipulation of tenders.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 09:39am

Cricket

SL T20 team owner sentenced over fixing

Also fined 24 million rupees ($80,000) by Colombo High Court.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 11:36am

Cricket

Markram powers South Africa to win over WI

Pretorius, who is not in the World Cup squad, opened in De Kock’s absence.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Cricket

Bowlers dominate day two of President’s Trophy round six

Shehzad’s fifth five-wicket haul of the tournament elevates tally to 34 wickets at an average of 9.47.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Football

AFC to review Malaysia FA as top officials quit over foreign-born players’ scandal

FAM has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland, where the case is pending.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Football

Prass stunner helps Hoffenheim go third, Leipzig held at Pauli

Prass broke Bremen’s resilience just before the break with an incredible long-range rocket.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 11:25am

Sport

Italy sets security plan for Winter Olympics, says US ICE staff not on the ground

Games to be one of the most complex security operations Italy has had to manage with the event split between two main hubs, Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Cricket

Seifert, Santner give New Zealand consolation T20 win over India

New Zealand posted 215-7 after being put in to bat thanks to a century stand between openers Seifert, who hit 62 off 36 balls, and Devon Conway, who struck 44.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Cricket

Australia down West Indies to seal semi-final spot at U-19 World Cup

West Indies remain in contention alongside Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Tennis

Djokovic gets out of jail to set up Sinner semi-final showdown

Sinner holds a 6-4 win-loss record over Djokovic and has won their last five encounters.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Balochistan

Women appointed to key police positions: CM Bugti

According to the chief minister, the initiative aims to make the police force more public-friendly.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Balochistan

Demo held in Quetta against low gas pressure, loadshedding

SSGC assures protesters situation will improve in the coming days.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 08:39am

Balochistan

Policy dialogue launched to counter extremism in Quetta

Three-day policy dialogue on countering violent extremism (CVE) brings together policymakers, security officials, experts and civil society representatives.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 08:37am

Balochistan

CM sees 70pc drop in Quetta crime over past two months

Describes the reduction as clear evidence that the provincial government’s security strategy is moving in the right direction.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

Balochistan

Makran shutters to protest against poor law & order

Multi-party alliance demands recovery of kidnapped businessman, improved security.

Published 29 Jan, 2026 06:58am

National

FCC urged not to close Arshad Sharif case

Somiya Arshad requests FCC to order formation of a comprehensive, independent judicial commission with international observers to probe all aspects of the case.

Updated 29 Jan, 2026 07:43am

National