News Archives for Latest - 2026-02-19

Middle East

Pakistan not among 5 nations announced to have committed troops for International Stabilisation Force in Gaza

Contributing nations have raised $7bn as an initial down payment for Gaza reconstruction.

Updated 20 Feb, 2026 08:23am

Cricket

Zadran, Nabi help Afghanistan to consolation win at T20 World Cup

Ibrahim Zadran's unbeaten 95 helps Afghanistan to a crushing 82-run win over Canada.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 10:53pm

HEC makes AI course mandatory for all degree programmes from 2026

Directives apply to all public and private sector higher education institutions.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 08:45pm

South Asia

India to make Rafale jets with France in boost to defence ties, Macron says

Says India’s expected order for another 114 Rafales is a “new step forward” in defence ties.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 08:38pm

Pakistan, US sign pact to redevelop New York’s Roosevelt Hotel

“The objective remains to secure maximum value for this property in alignment with the government’s privatisation strategy," finance ministry says.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:51pm

KP & FATA

Young girl from North Waziristan makes waves on social media with bowling, batting prowess

"It is truly heartening to witness such extraordinary raw talent emerging from our soil," says KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:55pm

In pictures: Prayers, charity, and iftar meals mark the beginning of Ramazan

Mosques fill for nightly Taraweeh prayers, families gather for iftar meals at sunset, and acts of generosity increase as believers seek spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:34pm

Cricket

Zimbabwe unbeaten in T20 World Cup after 6-wicket Sri Lanka win

Ranked 11th in the world, Zimbabwe upset former champions Australia last week.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:27pm

KP & FATA

4 terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation in KP’s Lakki Marwat: ISPR

ISPR says the militants were "actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area”.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 10:58pm

PMDC takes notice of student’s death at Fatima Jinnah Medical University, advises varsities to hire mental health professionals

“Incidents of this nature are deeply alarming and highlight the urgent need to strengthen student support systems in medical and dental institutions," it says.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 06:05pm

Australian police probe threatening letter to country’s largest mosque ahead of Ramazan

The letter sent to Lakemba Mosque in Sydney’s west contains a drawing of a pig and a threat to kill the “Muslim race”.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 05:37pm

Editorial: Defeating terrorism requires a whole-of-nation approach combining kinetic, intelligence-led and sociopolitical measures

With a spate of terrorist attacks occurring in the country, a national-level response is required to address the issue.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 05:23pm

PTI says govt’s silence, lack of clarity over Imran’s health only adding to public unease

Reiterates demand that ex-PM's personal physicians be granted access; Imran’s son thanks ex-cricket captains for humanitarian appeal for jailed father.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 05:35pm

ECC approves release of Rs19bn for PM’s Ramazan package

“The remaining requirement will be released as and when necessary, in line with fiscal space,” finance ministry says.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 04:30pm

The Royal Shakespeare Company is bringing Game of Thrones to the stage this summer

The popular show's prequel is set to have its global premiere at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 03:33pm

Substance recovered from Matiullah Jan not ‘ice’, IHC told during hearing of narcotics and terrorism case against journalist

Bench questions whether narcotics-related charges could be sustained, refers matter back to trial court for framing of charges.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 03:31pm

Cricket

West Indies finish group stage unbeaten after easing past Italy in T20 World Cup

Two-time champions maintain their perfect record heading into the Super Eight stage.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 03:13pm

Police arrest King Charles’ brother Andrew over misconduct relating to Epstein

"The law must take its course," says King Charles; arrest comes on the ex-prince's 66th birthday.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 05:41pm

Analysis: Pakistan is heading towards a severe employment crisis, leaving millions of young people without visible job opportunities

The future of work does not simply happen; it is shaped by choices governments, employers, and workers make together, says analyst.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 02:54pm

Want a healthy iftar this Ramazan? Ditch the sugary sweets for these options

To stay healthy in Ramazan, iftar menus must focus on what the body needs for recovery rather than what solely tastes good on the palate.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 02:44pm

Govt compensates families of victims of Islamabad imambargah attack

Each victim's family received Rs5m, a statement from the PM Office says.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 05:26pm

Pakistan Hockey Federation president resigns, blames sports board for Pro League mismanagement

Says funds allocated for Pro League were not managed properly; Mohsin Naqvi meets hockey players, assures them of support.

Updated 20 Feb, 2026 08:07am

Demarche issued to Afghanistan over terror attack in KP’s Bajaur

FO expresses concern that TTP “operates with impunity from Afghan soil”; tells Afghan Taliban regime to take "immediate, concrete and verifiable" measures.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 02:56pm

South Asia

Bill Gates pulls out of India AI summit; anger mounts over organisational lapses

The Gates Foundation says the billionaire will not deliver his address “to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit’s key priorities”.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 01:40pm

Shireen Kamran’s paintings reward patience over quick interpretation

At Canvas Gallery, the Montreal-based artist invites viewers to slow down, sit with uncertainty and find solace in the rhythm of colour and form.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 12:58pm

IHC issues notices to NCCIA on Imaan, Hadi’s appeals against convictions in social media post case

Response sought from NCCIA over the couple's pleas seeking suspension of sentences.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 12:48pm

Pakistan extends airspace closure for Indian aircraft until March 23

Restrictions imposed by Pakistan have been repeatedly extended over past year.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 12:22pm

Eight backcountry skiers perish in California avalanche, ninth presumed dead

Six survivors rescued after search teams on skis fought through blinding snow; one of the deceased skiers was the spouse of a search-and-rescue team member.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 12:16pm

The Voice of Hind Rajab’s Kaouther Ben Hania refuses award after Israeli general honoured in Berlin

The movie was awarded the Most Valuable Film at the Cinema for Peace gala.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 11:58am

White House tells Iran to do deal as Trump hints at US strikes

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian insists “do not want war” but suggests Tehran cannot give in to US demands.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 12:57pm

Over 80 film heavyweights slam Berlinale for ‘shielding Israel from criticism’

From Mark Ruffalo to Tilda Swinton, festival alumni urge organisers to condemn Israel’s genocide and address allegations of censorship.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 11:25am

‘No leniency’: Attaullah Tarar refutes reports of ‘deal’ offered to PTI founder Imran Khan

Clarification follows statements made by Rana Sanaullah, who said "two serious efforts" were made but Imran was not ready for “any deal”.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 11:29am

At first Board of Peace meeting, PM Shehbaz calls for end to ceasefire violations in Gaza for lasting peace

Premier says Trump is "truly a saviour of South Asia"; In his address at the meeting, Trump says he "likes" PM Shehbaz, mentions "tough fighter" CDF Munir.

Updated 20 Feb, 2026 12:30am

The threshold is drawing near for a renewable revolution

With batteries, it will be possible to generate, store and use electricity round the clock using solar only.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 09:20am

Will the Board of Peace assert itself over Israel to stop its illegal land transfers, or will it be derailed?

The BoP’s writ will be tested by Israel’s move to register parts of the West Bank as state land.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 09:09am

Sindh

At least 15 killed in Karachi Soldier Bazaar building collapse following gas explosion

Eighteen others injured rescued from rubble and shifted to hospital for treatment; rescue and search operation concludes.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:17pm

Editorial: The government must ensure much greater transparency in how it is dealing with Imran Khan’s ailment

Clearly, there is significant disagreement within the PTI camp concerning the right course of action regarding Imran Khan’s health.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 11:37am

Privatisation commission forms committee to discuss proposed divestment of Islamabad International Airport

The committee will undertake negotiations and submit recommendations to the board for approval.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 08:27am

Punjab

Depicting Ramazan imagery through illuminations in Punjab

Markets in Attock, Nowshera, Khushab, Mianwali and Faisalabad also display elaborate lighting arrangements.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:40am

Punjab

Minor girl mauled to death by dogs in Bahawalpur

The dogs reportedly dragged the child into a nearby wheat field, where she was fatally injured.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:44am

Punjab

Gogi, spouse booked for land fraud in Gujrat

Nominated suspects sold a piece of land already allocated for park, graveyard, school and public building.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:48am

Business

T-bill yields rise for second straight auction

Govt borrows Rs677bn; return on 12-month paper exceeds policy rate.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:05am

Business

Power firms seek Rs1.78 more for January

CPPA demands higher fuel charges citing 12pc increase in demand.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:35am

Business

Rice export rebate scheme revised

Govt removes $1,275 per tonne price cap, allocates Rs15bn subsidy to boost competitiveness.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:17am

Business

Foreign direct investment plunges 41pc to $981 million

Experts believe foreign investment will remain under pressure, as the regional situation is not conducive to foreign investors.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:22am

Business

PSX stages 5,702-point recovery rally

Support from major heavyweights, including UBL, HBL, NBP, jointly adds 2,699 points to benchmark.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:34am

Business

Oil prices rise 3pc on US-Iran tensions

Big moves in prices solely driven by geopolitics, says president of Lipow Oil Associates.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:30am

KP & FATA

KP govt to fill 270 vacant posts in Mansehra schools

“We have started the process of appointing as many as 270 watchmen at government primary, high and middle schools across the district,” says Hidayatullah Khan.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:03am

KP & FATA

Political leadership can resolve issues with Afghanistan: Kundi

Says a peaceful Afghanistan was important not only for Pakistan but also for the entire region.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:03am

KP & FATA

Police clear motorway of PTI protesters after five days

No leader of party arrested during crackdown.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 09:03am

Islamabad

NA special committee calls for stronger implementation of anti-harassment laws

The committee met at the Secretariat of the Federal Ombudsperson for Protection against Harassment (Fospah) under the chairpersonship of MNA Dr Nafisa Shah.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 09:00am

Islamabad

Privilege motion moved against ministry, CDA chief for failing to submit PSDP record

The committee noted that despite the agenda formally including the PSDP review, no comprehensive brief had been submitted for scrutiny.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:03am

Islamabad

Security measures beefed up during Ramazan in Rawalpindi

Over 2,500 policemen deployed; 6,500 volunteers to assist in protocols at mosques, imambargahs.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:03am

Sindh

Governor Tessori denies grouping within Muttahida

Says MQM-P ‘united’ under Khalid Maqbool’s leadership; Rs5bn uplift package being readied for Sindh’s second largest city.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:02am

Sindh

Gul Plaza had no emergency back-up lights, Judicial Commission told

Chief fire officer testifies shopping mall’s electricity was switched off by the time fire tenders arrived there; Rescue 1122 chief says power supply must be cut in fire cases as per SOP.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:29am

Sindh

CM Sindh grants magisterial powers to 480 officers to curb profiteering

Murad asks KE, Hesco, Sepco and SSGC to ensure zero power and gas loadshedding during Sehri and Iftar.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:26am

Sindh

E-challan only on roads with signage in Karachi, SHC told

The petitioners asserted that the Al-based e-challan system was implemented in the city without ensuring necessary road infrastructure.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 10:26am

International

French FM urged to retract remarks against Albanese

Controversy "must not divert attention from the massacres of civilians" in Gaza, signatories say.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:00am

International

Trump warns Britain not to ‘give away’ military base at Diego Garcia

The president’s statement is in conflict with that of State Department’s, which supported the UK-Mauritius deal.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:53am

International

‘Difficult’ Ukraine talks end with no breakthrough

Zelensky says Russia trying to "drag out" negotiations.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:39am

International

Zuckerberg says Meta apps not designed to lure children

A verdict against Meta could erode Big Tech’s long-standing legal defence against claims of user harm.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:45am

Sport

Dominant Shiffrin strikes gold, ends medal drought

Her combined winning time was one minute 39.10 seconds.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:02am

Football

Racism allegations overshadow Real victory as PSG win

The Brazilian scored a superb goal early in the second half, arrowing his shot into the top corner.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 09:18am

Hockey

Pakistan hockey in major crisis on eve of World Cup qualifying event

In an extremely upsetting disclosure, the captain alleged that the team management asked the players if they were with the captain or the federation.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 09:14am

Balochistan

Balochistan food dept abolished

Government has approved the establishment of a Consumer Protection Directorate and a Commodities Management Directorate under the new department.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:02am

Balochistan

Girl killed by celebratory firing at wedding in Dera Murad Jamali

In a separate incident within the limits of Dera Allah Yar Police Station in Jaffarabad district, a 12-year-old boy was injured during aerial firing at a wedding ceremony in the Qidi Shakh.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 09:22am

National

IHC seeks govt response on plea challenging Domestic Violence Act

Counsel argues law violates Articles 4, 8, 10-A, 35 and 227 of Constitution; Lahore court convicts man of assaulting wife, mother-in-law.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 08:03am

Balochistan

IGP promises Quetta police bullet-proof vehicles

The IG stresses that the dignity of the uniform and clarity of mind define a good officer.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:02am

Balochistan

Bibi Houri is no more, but her quest continues

Septuagenarian had been campaigning for her missing son’s recovery since 2012.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:53am

National

Law minister rails against ‘out of context reporting’

Azam Nazeer Tarar says news given in haste can benefit or harm someone, urges journalists to prioritise fact-checking.

Published 19 Feb, 2026 07:02am

Back Page

Joint opposition claims PPP has lost majority in AJK Assembly

Vows to resist ‘any attempt’ to derail polls.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:35am

Back Page

ECP asked to explain Imran’s ouster in Toshakhana case

Apex court adjourns proceedings in cipher, defamation cases against PTI chief.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:27am

Back Page

‘Asia-Pacific set to miss 103 of 117 SDG targets by 2030’

“The very engines of growth that once lifted millions out of poverty and fuelled rapid industrialisation are now undermining our future,” says UN Under-Secretary-General.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:45am

Back Page

Israel restricts Friday congregation at Al Aqsa to 10,000

Imam of Al Aqsa arrested by Israeli police; Hamas condemns arrest, restrictions on worshippers’ access to holy mosque.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:41am

Front Page

No peace in Gaza without justice, Dar tells UNSC

Deputy PM says Pakistan willing to contribute to all peace initiatives; questions persist over aim, goals of Trump-led body as ‘Board of Peace’ meets today.

Updated 19 Feb, 2026 07:24am

Front Page