News Archives for Latest - 2026-02-17

Faisal Town Group partners with Punjab govt for 500,000 Tree Plantation Drive in Margalla Hills

The initiative sets a target of planting 500,000 saplings during 2026, reinforcing the Group’s long-term commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological rehabilitation.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 11:26pm

Cricket

Nepal sign off at T20 World Cup with win over Scotland

Dipendra Singh Airee hits unbeaten 50 as Nepal secure 7-wicket victory with four balls to spare.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 10:51pm

Ramazan moon sighted in Saudi Arabia, UAE

Moon also sighted in Afghanistan; countries to observe the first day of fasting on Wednesday (February 18).

Updated 18 Feb, 2026 12:30am

South Asia

India tells global tech platforms to follow constitution after tougher content rules

“It’s very important for the multinationals to understand the cultural context of the country in which they are operating,” says India's information minister.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 08:01pm

Punjab

HRCP calls for judicial inquiry into deaths resulting from operations by Punjab’s Crime Control Department

Commission says department has adopted a “deliberate policy of staged police encounters leading to extrajudicial killings”.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 07:13pm

Middle East

Iran FM says agreed with US ‘on guiding principles’ for deal

“I can say that, compared with the previous round, fully serious discussions were raised and the atmosphere was more constructive,” he says.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:52pm

How gastritis affects fasting during Ramazan, and what helps

Ramazan not only reminds us to fast and pray, but also to let go of our long-held resentments, pride, and ego.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:05pm

Cricket

Australia, Ireland out of T20 World Cup as Zimbabwe qualify after washout

Zimbabwe join Sri Lanka as qualifiers from Group B and will move on to face the West Indies, India and South Africa in the next phase.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 05:59pm

Dar to visit New York for UNSC briefing on Palestine: FO

Foreign Office says Dar will visit New York on Feb 18 to participate in a high-level briefing on Palestine.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 05:55pm

Punjab

Pakistani repatriated from India via Wagah border after spending 17 years in jail

He was sentenced by an Indian court after being accused of spying for Pakistan, says official.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 05:32pm

Bangladesh’s new prime minister, political heir Tarique Rahman

Widely known as Tarique Zia, he carries a political name that has shaped every stage of his life.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 05:05pm

Cricket

Former cricket captains, including India’s Gavaskar and Kapil, issue humanitarian appeal for jailed Imran

“Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolising his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit,” they say.

Updated 18 Feb, 2026 12:28am

From ignored FBI reports to carelessly exposed victim identities, the Epstein scandal is a masterclass in how institutions fail survivors

Published 17 Feb, 2026 04:30pm

PM reaffirms Pakistan’s support for IAEA’s role in promoting responsible use of nuclear technology

Agreement signed on the designation of the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology in Lahore as an IAEA collaborating centre.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 06:40pm

The National Museum of Pakistan may finally get the upgrade it deserves under new CAP-AKU collaboration

The two institutions have signed an MoU to upgrade infrastructure, exhibitions, and public engagement at the country’s principal museum.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 03:37pm

Cricket

Usman Tariq confident Pakistan can bounce back after India drubbing in T20 World Cup

Dismisses rumours that Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi could be dropped against Namibia after poor performances against India.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 03:32pm

8 Muslim nations, including Pakistan, condemn Israeli move to claim West Bank land as ‘state property’

In a joint statement, foreign ministers describe move as “a grave escalation aimed at accelerating illegal settlement activity".

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 05:51pm

Ahmed Ali Butt thinks Pakistani cricket has been ‘dead for years now’ and he’s not alone

The host and rapper called for accountability and performance from the men's squad after a humiliating loss to India on Sunday.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 03:17pm

Imran’s sisters, TTAP reject Naqvi’s account of events surrounding PTI founder’s medical examination

Naqvi claims opposition expressed satisfaction over treatment; says almost all opposition politicians were onboard but Aleema "vetoed them".

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 10:42pm

‘He got my child aborted’: Ex-wife Sania Ashfaq levels fresh allegations against cricketer Imad Wasim as he remarries

As Ashfaq calls the cricketer a 'murderer', urging a boycott, Nyla Rajah, his new wife, says marrying him was the 'best decision' of her life.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 03:13pm

Sindh

Rainfall, hail lashes parts of Karachi

4 killed in traffic accident involving multiple vehicles due to slippery roads.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:00pm

Sindh

SSGC assures ‘uninterrupted’ gas supply in Karachi during Sehr, Iftar

Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited proposes gas supply from 3am to 10.30pm daily, awaits approval from Petroleum Division.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 02:40pm

Sindh

CTD claims 4 suspected terrorists dead after raid in Karachi’s Shah Latif Town

Says suspects killed by firing “from their own accomplices”; 2 cops injured in fire exchange.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 02:32pm

Chart

https://i.dawn.com/primary/2026/02/161052543af0955.gif

Published 17 Feb, 2026 02:31pm

Brent oil prices slip as investors assess risks of supply disruption

Analysts note that oil prices are likely to stay volatile.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 02:21pm

KP & FATA

PHC orders reopening of KP roads blocked by PTI supporters

Justice Anwar terms it unfortunate that ruling party is "hurting the province’s people”; police say KP IG has issued directives for the reopening of roads.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 11:14pm

11 security personnel martyred in terrorist attack on checkpost in Bajaur: ISPR

12 terrorists eliminated after security forces retaliated and “engaged the fleeing khwarij with precision”.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 02:25pm

Gold slides over 2pc on strong dollar in light liquidity trade

Gold touched its lowest price since February 6 as US-Iran nuclear talks set for Tuesday, and the US dollar rises ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee's minutes due on Wednesday.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 01:06pm

Sindh

Fire at chemical factory in Karachi’s SITE area brought under control: Rescue 1122

Rescuee 1122 says cooling process currently underway; factory located near Valika Chowrangi.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 04:48pm

Top Featured

The shutdown of USAID and the deeper crisis behind it

USAID's collapse exposes a bitter truth: global aid is fragile, bureaucratic, and ultimately at the mercy of politics at home and abroad.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 12:55pm

Punjab

Alleged serial killer shot dead by accomplices while fleeing custody in Gujranwala, claim police

Police spokesperson claims that four armed accomplices opened fire on the police in an attempt to free the suspect from custody.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 12:48pm

‘We’re demonising them’: Kumail Nanjiani criticises US treatment of immigrants during Spirit Awards

He said the lack of empathy shown to them in the country was 'shocking'.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 12:41pm

South Asia

India court clears mega project on ecologically sensitive Great Nicobar island

National Green Tribunal dismisses batch of petitions objecting to infrastructure plan involving transhipment port, airport, power plant.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 12:14pm

Bears dominate as KSE-100 loses over 1,300 points on Tuesday

The index experienced a volatile trading session, with the top active stocks being led by K-Electric Limited, followed by Bank of Punjab and Worldcall Telecom Limited.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 04:18pm

Before macarons were pink and pistachio, they were Arab — and here’s how you can make them

Long linked to French royalty, the macaron likely traces its roots to 13th-century Sicily.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 11:14am

TTAP sit-in continues for 5th day at Parliament House; meetings with Imran at Adiala jail still not allowed

Imran's sisters again stopped while on their way to Adiala jail; PTI and ex-premier's family "reject" medical report.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 11:04pm

South Asia

Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh’s PM after landslide election victory

President Mohammed Shahabuddin officiated as Rahman and his cabinet took their oaths; President Zardari, PM Shehbaz congratulate Rahman.

Updated 18 Feb, 2026 12:25am

Trump says he will be involved indirectly in Iran talks

“I don't think they want the consequences of not making a deal,” Trump says.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 09:51am

Parliaments uphold democracy and subvert it just as readily

Every major scam has come to the notice of India’s parliament and to the people through something that was published or broadcast by a local or foreign media outlet.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 09:41am

France’s Macron eyes Rafale fighter jet deal in India

An Indian defence ministry statement last week said the proposed purchase of Rafale jets had been cleared, with “the majority” of them to be manufactured in India.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 09:22am

What would a deal bring to dissatisfied people who have been feeding into the popularity and stature of Imran Khan?

This is a good time for a reminder that health issues, especially of imprisoned political prisoners, should not be downplayed or treated lightly.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 09:13am

Editorial: Israel’s move to annex the West Bank may dash all hopes of a two-state solution

If Trump is serious about the ‘peace’ component of his new board, he must use all his powers to convince Israelis to end their atrocities in occupied Palestine.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 08:58am

Cricket

Pakistan players hurting after India drubbing, says Hesson

“There’s a pretty disappointed dressing room in there at the moment, because they know how much it means to Pakistan,” he says.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 12:18pm

Intermittent fasting hype not backed by evidence, analysis finds

Researchers compares short-term fasting regimens — including the popular 5:2 diet and time-restricted eating plans that confine meals to eight-hour windows.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 10:08am

Football

Quadruple chasing Arsenal rout Wigan to reach FA Cup fifth round

Mikel Arteta’s side routed the third-tier strugglers with four goals in the first 27 minutes of the fourth round tie at the Emirates Stadium.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 07:46am

Sport

Meillard extends Swiss Winter Olympic stranglehold

Atle Lie McGrath looked on track to redress the balance in Norway’s favour when he led the slalom after the first run in Bormio.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:58am

SBP launches ‘Cyber Shield’ strategy to counter growing threats to financial ecosystem

Outlines key priorities to counter growing threats by 2030.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 07:25am

KP & FATA

Winter sports festival begins in Bumburet Valley

The gala serves as a powerful showcase of the region’s unique cultural identity and its potential as a premier winter tourism destination.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:59am

KP & FATA

KP govt has ceased to exist, says ANP

He alleges that Rs4 billion allocated for the rehabilitation of Tirah people had been lost to corruption.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:23am

KP & FATA

Motorway closure heaps misery on commuters, transporters, traders

Businessmen wonder why PTI govt troubling people of KP.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:01am

Islamabad

NA body seeks steps to protect children from social evils

“Policies were confined to papers only as their implementation seemed to be invisible at grossroots level,” parliamentarians notes.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:12am

Islamabad

Probe ordered into allegations of torture, extortion against police

The complainant said that the officials placed three packets of charas on the table in front of him and started taking pictures.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:17am

Islamabad

Development work begins in F-14, F-15 sectors after 11-year delay

Green Enclave allottees stage protest at ceremony.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

Punjab

Punjab Excise dept launches biometric verification of vehicles

PAK-ID App ends embassy visits, affidavits for overseas Pakistanis.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:03am

Punjab

Serial killer held for slaying four in Gujranwala

The suspect confesses to killing a woman and her two children, police say.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 10:08am

Punjab

Punjab CM announces helpline for prompt financial assistance

The programme will be launched from the first of Ramazan to ensure prompt support for people facing financial hardship.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 09:01am

Punjab

Rs10-16 per kg discount on ghee, cooking oil for Ramazan

Strict action will be taken against the supply of substandard ghee in the market.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

Sindh

Witnesses recount slow pace of rescue work at Gul Plaza

Amid moving scenes, 23 relatives of the deceased testify before judicial tribunal.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:40am

Sindh

Retailers hike rates of essential items as Sindh govt issues Ramazan price lists

The majority of retailers, especially fruit vendors, always ignore the official price list, terming it “unrealistic”.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:47am

Sindh

Gold worth Rs140m stolen from jewellery shop

The thieves entered the shop during the night between Feb 12 and Feb 13 and looted gold, silver and jewellery from the safe.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

International

Drone attack on Sudan market kills 28

Monitoring group says market "bustling with civilians" at time of attack; says toll preliminary.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:27am

International

Outrage over US Congressman’s anti-Muslim remarks

Randy Fine's comment prompts condemnation from civil rights groups, call for his resignation.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:36am

International

Britain needs to step up defence spending faster, says Starmer

BBC says government now exploring ways to reach 3pc target by 2029.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:40am

International

Nearly 70 rights groups slam EU migration policy

Letter expresses concern over police raids of public and private spaces, racial profiling.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:20am

Business

Govt notifies Rs4.04 per unit cut in industrial tariffs

Tells Nepra to restore contractual rights of old net-metered solar consumers.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:32am

Business

IHC directs crackdown on substandard food sacks

Authority directed to submit a comprehensive compliance report within 90 days.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:09am

Business

Trade gap with Mideast narrows in July-Dec

Exports to the region fall 6pc to $1.502bn.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:42am

Sindh

Sindh cuts infrastructure cess after two decades

FPCCI president calls move a historic breakthrough, says trading community provided with much-needed fiscal space.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:47am

Balochistan

Families of more missing persons say they have no connection with armed groups

The family members says they earn their livelihood through daily labour and driving.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

Balochistan

CM Bugti launches tree plantation drive

says Balochistan is facing serious environmental challenges.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

Balochistan

Heavy rain disrupts life across Balochistan

heavy rain began in the afternoon with thunderstorms and lightning and continued till late at night with brief intervals.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

National

CJP says all pending death row cases to be prioritised

SC sets 45-day disposal target for unsettled capital punishment and life-term trials; Law & Justice Commission to develop free legal aid framework.

Published 17 Feb, 2026 06:58am

Balochistan

Smuggling hinders legal trade, says top Balochistan official

Hamza Shafqaat asserts provincial govt providing full support to traders; Announces Iran border will soon operate on a passport-based system.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:12am

KP & FATA

GB protesters block road against power outage, water shortage

Allege corruption, poor governance behind crisis.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 10:44am

National

IHC unhappy with NHA over non-compliance

Chief Justice Dogar directs authority to submit complete record of deputation appointments within 15 days.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 08:18am

Back Page

X recovers from ‘brief’ global outage

Downdector indicated that in Pakistan, the number of users reporting issues peaked at 6:54pm with a total of 275 complaints.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:40am

Back Page

Indonesia readies 8,000 troops for Gaza international force

Italy offers to train Gaza police force; EU, Rome to attend Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ meeting but limit participation.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:32am

Back Page

Erdogan postpones UAE visit over Al Nahyan’s health

Erdogan will travel to the United Arab Emirates at a later date, still to be determined, the message added.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:45am

Back Page

British Museum under fire after removing word ‘Palestine’ from some displays

Historian William Dalrymple criticises move, later says museum has not ‘cancelled’ the term wholesale.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:49am

Front Page

UN calls on Israel to reverse unlawful West Bank actions

EU calls annexation illegal, Arab nations denounce ‘threat to peace efforts.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:27am

KP & FATA

Three cops martyred in Shangla operation

The official says that the operation was ongoing in the area and a large police contingent had been dispatched to the spot.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:35am

Front Page

Nepra under fire over net metering policy change

NA panel questions move’s rationale; members say it will discourage clean energy transition.

Updated 17 Feb, 2026 07:21am

Tuesday, February 17, 2026