News Archives for Latest - 2026-04-13

Punjab

LHC sets aside ruling that struck down policy for regulating foreign funding of NGOs, NPOs

Court observes that such policy-making squarely falls within the executive domain and is protected from "undue judicial interference".

Published 13 Apr, 2026 11:51pm

‘I thought it was me as a doctor’: Trump on AI image of himself as Jesus-like figure

Trump posted the image on Truth Social and has now deleted it; the image depicted him in a white robe with an apparently healing hand on a prone man's head.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 11:15pm

PTCL says repair work on submarine cable to begin from Tuesday, internet users may face service degradation in evening hours

Maintenance work can last till April 20, PTCL says.

Updated 14 Apr, 2026 12:38am

Why is Trump picking a fight with the pope?

Trump has not always been critical of the pontiff, who is the first American pope.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 09:42pm

Punjab

Punjab Assembly panel approves bill setting minimum marriage age at 18 for both males and females

In the bill, child marriage has been declared a non-bailable offence.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 09:09pm

PMD predicts rainfall in upper parts of country from April 16 to 19

Says westerly wave was likely to approach the country’s northwestern parts; meteorologist says high temperatures expected in Karachi in next few days.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 07:43pm

Middle East

Luxury brands face profit squeeze as Iran conflict shrinks UAE mall sales, sources say

Luxury brands in March reported sales drops of 30-50 per cent at the Mall of the Emirates, one of Dubai’s largest malls, compared to the same month last year.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 07:13pm

ICT

Naqvi vows to transform FIA into modern, dynamic institution by year’s end

Interior minister says strict action will be taken against those involved in corruption.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 06:58pm

ICT

After US-Iran talks in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz says ‘full efforts’ ongoing to resolve conflict

Hails talks in Islamabad over the weekend as a “historic moment”.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:14pm

Opinion: While the world focused on the Islamabad Talks, some Pakistanis made creepy AI videos of Gharidah Farooqi

The journalist's clothes became a hot topic for people who believe they have the right to police women's clothes.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 05:48pm

Punjab

Punjab’s residents left reeling amid hours-long loadshedding

“We are experiencing 12 to 16 hours of loadshedding almost daily," says one resident from Muzaffargarh district.

Updated 14 Apr, 2026 01:06am

Peace was within reach. Then came the missiles. Will it be different this time?

From Tehran’s perspective, this is not a moment for generosity; this is a moment for establishing that perfidy has a price.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 05:40pm

Punjab

Concerns abound regarding health of incarcerated PTI leader Ejaz Chaudhry

“According to the latest medical examination, his kidney disease has progressed to stage three," PTI says.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 05:19pm

3 cops martyred, 5 injured as assailants open fire on police vehicle in GB’s Diamer

Caretaker minister says police officials were on their way back after destroying large swathes of poppy crop.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 06:10pm

‘Liberated’: Hungarian youths celebrate Viktor Orban’s defeat

“At long last it feels so good to be Hungarian," says one 25-year-old.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 04:55pm

Pemra issues Geo News show-cause notice for airing Indian content while reporting on Asha Bhosle’s death

Says the broadcast of Indian songs and film clips is in "wilful defiance" of a 2018 Supreme Court judgment.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 04:51pm

ICT

Fitch affirms Pakistan’s credit rating at ‘B-’

“Pakistan’s rating affirmation reflects progress on fiscal consolidation and macro stability measures," it says.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 07:45pm

Branded Content

Chery Master Pakistan launches Tiggo 7 PHEV as a solution to Pakistan’s fuel crisis

At a time when both consumers and the country are navigating rising fuel costs, Tiggo 7 PHEV presents a clear and immediate solution.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 04:22pm

Middle East

Israel seeks to declare Turkiye ‘new enemy’, says FM Fidan after Netanyahu’s remarks on Erdogan

Israel-Turkiye tensions have spiked after Erdogan warned Trump of “possible provocations and sabotage” that could jeopardise Iran ceasefire.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 03:39pm

New York’s Zohran Mamdani touts ‘socialist’ plans after 100 days in office

According to a Marist Poll, 59pc of New Yorkers believe Mamdani has struck the “right balance” with Trump.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 02:29pm

What does a US naval blockade of Iran mean for oil flows?

Blocking Iranian shipments would disconnect a significant source of oil from the world’s markets, especially affecting China and India.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 02:29pm

Ramsha Khan calls out ‘pages chasing clout’ for publishing her photos without consent

This is our life, not your headlines... leave us alone, the actor said in a cryptic Instagram story.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 02:04pm

Australia appoints woman to lead its army for the first time

Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will become army chief in July, becoming the first woman to lead any service branch of the military.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 01:26pm

Pope Leo says he is not afraid of Trump after US president’s broadside

Remarks come after Trump said he is "not a big fan" of Pope Leo after his anti-war message.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 06:06pm

Pakistan steps up push to end polio with second nationwide campaign

The drive is being carried out in coordination with Afghanistan as part of joint efforts to curb the cross-border spread of the virus.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 12:42pm

Mera Lyari, Pakistan’s answer to Dhurandhar, to premiere at UK Asian Film Festival

The film will be screened at London's prestigious British Film Institute on May 2.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 12:24pm

Asha Bhosle — a voice that will never fade

Her music transcended borders, touching the hearts of many Pakistanis.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 12:10pm

KP & FATA

Cop martyred, 4 injured in attack on Hangu police team en route to provide security for polio drive

Two terrorists killed in retaliation; attack is first this year on polio drive; CM seeks report from IG; search operation under way.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 01:03pm

PSX sheds 6,600 points after Trump announces Hormuz blockade

Closes at 160,591.33 points, down 3.95pc, after weekend peace talks fail to produce positive outcome.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 04:41pm

Aurangzeb arrives in Washington for IMF, World Bank spring meetings

Finmin is scheduled to hold key meetings with global financial leaders to advance “Pakistan’s reform agenda and economic priorities”.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 11:19am

US military to begin blockade of Iranian ports on Monday

US forces would not impede vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 11:25am

While recovering from the economic impacts of the global war, Pakistan should also focus on flood management

Floods are totally natural and even helpful, but have reached a disastrous intensity due to climate change and unplanned settlements.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 10:14am

How will the oil market behave in the days and weeks ahead?

If the world heads towards a political solution, crude oil prices will go down, but not to the levels they were at the onset of the war.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 10:02am

How the US-Iran war is eroding hard-won gains in renewable energy and climate governance

The US-Israel war against Iran accelerated the climate crisis in both direct and indirect ways.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 09:27am

While neither the US nor Iran has budged, coming days will show whether they can continue on the diplomatic path

There was no breakthrough but also no breakdown in talks which keeps diplomatic option open.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 09:15am

Business & Finance

A steady erasure of dollar dependence

The conflict may mark a gradual erosion of the petrodollar and the rise of a petroyuan.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 09:13am

Business & Finance

Manufacturing woes

A realistic strategy for sustainable industrial recovery and expansion must focus on restoring policy credibility and reducing structural costs.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 09:08am

Editorial: The US must decide if it wants to entangle itself in another ‘forever war’ in the Middle East

While mistrust is high, a small window of diplomacy remains open.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 08:57am

How Pakistan can leverage its greater geopolitical relevance to achieve long-term economic solvency

At a time of global disruption, Pakistan’s strategic position has improved, though its economic gains remain limited.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 08:30am

KP & FATA

Fazlur Rehman hopeful of Iran-US talks second round

JUI-F chief says parleys promoted good image of Pakistan.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:23am

KP & FATA

Man injured as mortar shell lands in Bajaur village

The official sources says they had launched an investigation into the incident.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 08:28am

KP & FATA

Seven Peshawar jail prisoners transferred to Punjab

Law enforcement officials says that this transfer was part of a larger, systemic exchange programme.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 08:27am

KP & FATA

Compromise by heirs in honour killing cases inconsequential, rules Peshawar High Court

Rejects bail plea of accused arrested for murder of daughter, another person.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:26am

KP & FATA

Flood threat looms over Chitral valley as summer approaches

Residents, experts urge urgent construction of bulwarks along river.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:27am

ICT

Free public transport on 7 routes in Attock

Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza says that in the first phase 22 modern buses had been deployed on major commercial routes across the district.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:05am

ICT

Railways minister inaugurates revamped Safari train service in Rawalpindi

Safari train had been upgraded with modern facilities, including air-conditioned coaches, newly-designed comfortable seating and an improved, family-friendly environment.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:08am

ICT

Red Zone, key roads in Islamabad to remain closed

Markets in Rawalpindi could not be opened due to lack of coordination.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:11am

ICT

Medical tribunal decides 20 appeals in four months in Islamabad

In one case, tribunal upholds findings of misrepresentation and fake degrees by medical practitioner.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:02am

Punjab

Fashion brands in Lahore ‘ignore’ labour rights violations in textile recycling sector

Research finds workers being subjected to exploitative wages, poor workplace environment.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:15am

Punjab

Punjab CM for completing drainage projects before June

In the first phase, 86 disposal stations and nine underground storage tanks will be constructed.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:18am

Punjab

Girl raped on pretext of job in Chiniot

The suspect allegedly told her that he was an expatriate and needed a maid to take care of his mother, who was living in Chenab Nagar.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:20am

Punjab

Bid to smuggle 112kg silver foiled in Punjab

One suspect has been arrested while his vehicle has been impounded.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:55am

Punjab

Changes to Punjab property law expected to revive real estate

BoR secretary says the amendments are expected to revive the dying real estate sector, generate economic activities and put an end to corruption in the revenue department.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 04:19pm

Cricket

Gritty Labuschagne inspires Kingsmen to win over United

The situation could not have been more perfectly set up for Labuschagne to lead from the front.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 07:12am

Sport

McIlroy falters, shares Masters lead with surging Young

McIlroy, who started the day with a record six-shot lead, carded a one-over-par 73 while Young roared into contention with a scintillating seven-under-par 65.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 07:09am

Sport

Fury cruises to decision victory over Makhmudov

Makhmudov enjoyed occasional success in the early rounds at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium by bull-rushing Fury and forcing him back onto the ropes but struggled to do much damage.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:36am

Front Page

World powers urge US, Iran to uphold truce, return to talks

Dar says imperative truce remains in place for durable peace in "region and beyond"; EU insists diplomacy essential to resolve conflict, to contribute to peace efforts.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 07:46am

Front Page

Why restraint matters in managing public perceptions

In high-stakes diplomacy, understatement often carries more weight than projection.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 07:22am

Front Page

Iran ‘will not bow to any threats’, Ghalibaf declares

Tehran warns of strong response to any confrontation; calls control over strait "non-negotiable."

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 07:36am

Back Page

Pope sees ‘moral obligation’ to protect Lebanese

Says he’s closer than ever to people of Lebanon.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:01am

Back Page

Over 500 held at pro-Palestinian rally in UK

Londoners stage a demo in support of Palestine Action; organisers describe move by authorities as "misguided crackdown."

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 07:57am

Balochistan

Balochistan govt okays Rakhni Bazaar upgrade

CM Sarfraz Bugti says the upgradation of Rakhni Bazaar would give fresh momentum to the local economy.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:43am

Balochistan

Drive against tax evaders in health sector launched in Balochistan

The authority has accelerated action against institutions involved in tax evasion or non-payment of dues.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:35am

Balochistan

‘AI, IT education must begin at primary level’: Balochistan Board of Investment

Vice Chairman BBOI urges public and private educational institutions to move beyond basic learning and embrace innovation.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:32am

Balochistan

‘Situation in region boosts Gwadar Port’s global value’: Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry

QCCI calls for cashing in on opportunity.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:29am

National

Delivering hope, two drops at a time

Most of the world has eradicated the disease, Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only countries where the virus continues to circulate.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:26am

ICT

Four officials hurt as Afghan residents clash with police in Islamabad

In a separate incident, a police sub-inspector died of a cardiac arrest while on special assignment in Islamabad.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:16am

Punjab

Punjab directs major cities to establish biodiversity corridors

A biodiversity corridor is defined as a strip of plants, hedgerows or unmown land that connects isolated patches of natural habitat.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 06:32am

National

PTI optimistic about progress as US, Iran talks end without deal

Sheikh Waqas stresses dialogue must continue as only a few issues remain unresolved.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:12am

National

Gas supply to power sector may double amid LNG shortfall

Govt mulls diversion from households, CNG and fertiliser.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:07am

Business & Finance

The Reko Diq saga continues

"Decisions involving billions of dollars are not typically triggered by short-term regional tensions," says KCCI council chairman.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:39am

Business & Finance

Outlook for peace in the Middle East

‘The conflict has exposed the limits of American power more clearly than any recent war’, says analyst.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 10:36am

International

Nigeria air strikes leave scores of ‘fighters’ dead

Amnesty International says over 100 people have been killed and 35 seriously wounded in attacks.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 06:32am

International

Saudi Arabia executes seven people in a day

Foreign nationals make up the majority of those executed this year, totalling 33 people.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:41am

International

Japan to begin test flights of electric aircraft

Test flights for an electric aircraft will begin at Kitakyushu Airport on April 17, the project’s backers announced.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 06:32am

Sindh

Video of brazen Korangi bridge robbery ignites public fury

Officials claim robbers were only armed with "sticks"and ran away after firing into the air by police.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:05am

Sindh

SHC orders fresh hearing of petitions earlier reserved for verdict in Cotton Exchange building case

Seven petitions to be heard together by Constitutional Bench No 1.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:55am

Sindh

‘TTP terrorist’ held in Rangers-CTD raid at SITE

“The held terrorist, on the directives of his accomplices in Afghanistan, was organising his group in Karachi to carry out terrorist attacks,” official says.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:11am

Sindh

Meat prices go up despite looming export cuts due to crisis in Middle East in Karachi

Beef and mutton rates rise by Rs100-300 per kg;Slaughtering of calves, dairy animals blamed for animal "shortage."

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 08:50am

Sindh

Body formed to investigate change of exam centres by Board of Secondary Education Karachi

The committee has been tasked with completing its inquiry within a period of 15 days and submitting a comprehensive report to the minister.

Updated 13 Apr, 2026 09:08am

Middle East

Israeli minister storms Al Aqsa Mosque again amid restrictions on worshippers

Such incursions by Minister Ben-Gvir are typically carried out without prior public announcement.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 02:53am

Viktor Orban concedes ‘painful’ defeat to conservative Peter Magyar in Hungary polls

With votes in almost 67pc of precincts counted, Magyar's party stands to have gained 137 seats, or more than two-thirds of all 199 parliamentary seats.

Published 13 Apr, 2026 01:23am

Monday, April 13, 2026