News Archives for Latest - 2026-04-25

In call with Iranian president, PM says Pakistan committed to serving as 'honest and sincere facilitator'

Terms call "warm and constructive"; voices appreciation for Iran’s continued engagement.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 11:50pm

ICT

Islamabad administration allows public, goods transport; revises business timings

Rawalpindi DC says all entry and exit points have been opened for all types of traffic, including private, public and goods transport.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:56pm

Sindh

Operation to recover boy swept away while swimming in water line continues for 2nd day in Karachi

Lifeguards of Rescue 1122 and Edhi Foundation continued the rescue and search operation till Friday night, but could not recover the 11-year-old boy.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 09:19pm

US State Department orders global warning about alleged AI theft by DeepSeek, other Chinese firms

Cable instructs diplomatic staff to speak to their foreign counterparts about “concerns over adversaries’ extraction and distillation of US AI models”.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 08:51pm

Pakistan successfully launches indigenous satellite from China

According to the Foreign Office, the satellite carries advanced experimental payloads aimed at validating next-generation space technologies.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:44pm

ICT

Journalist Fakharur Rehman sent to jail on judicial remand following arrest in Peca case

According to the FIR, the journalist is accused of spreading "false and misleading information against state institutions” through the social media platform X.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 07:20pm

India to bid for 2038 Asian Games in Ahmedabad

Country's Olympic chief says Olympic Council of Asia "will be sending an evaluation committee to India very soon".

Published 25 Apr, 2026 06:02pm

Afghans in Qatar can return 'with full confidence', says Taliban govt

Taliban government's foreign ministry spokesman says that “there exist no security threats in Afghanistan”.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 06:02pm

ICT

Telecos to begin 5G trials in Gilgit-Baltistan soon

The GB Council, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has approved the summary to launch 5G test trials in the region.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:17pm

With fuel prices through the roof, here are Team Images' ideas on how to get around

Getting places should not cost an arm and a leg.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:14pm

ICT

Four family members gunned down in Islamabad suburbs, police say

The reason behind the murders has yet to be ascertained, but police suspect it could be a case of so-called honour killing.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 04:32pm

Billionaire Elon Musk enters courtroom showdown with OpenAI

Musk calls for OpenAI to be forced to revert to a pure nonprofit, urges the ousting of Sam Altman and OpenAI President Greg Brockman.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 04:00pm

In pictures: High security in Islamabad’s Red Zone during Iranian delegation’s visit

Police personnel stand guard on main thoroughfares, while roads to Red Zone barricaded as part of security measures.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 03:53pm

Is Karachi disposable by design?

After Gul Plaza, the question isn't why the building burned, it's why it was ever allowed to stand.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 03:06pm

Shaan Shahid believes Humayun Saeed and Fahad Mustafa want to stay in their 'comfort zones'

The star opened up about art, big budget movies and divisions in the country’s film industry.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 02:11pm

Strait of Hormuz closure pushes Pakistan into expensive $18.4 per mmBtu LNG deal

TotalEnergies had initially bid $18.88 per mmBtu but later revised its offer downward to $18.4 following negotiations.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 06:03pm

South Asia

3 killed in latest clashes in India's troubled Manipur state

Police did not specify which community the men came from.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 02:03pm

Middle East

Palestinians vote in first elections since Israel's invasion of Gaza

Most electoral lists are aligned with President Mahmoud Abbas’s secular-nationalist Fatah party or feature candidates running as independents.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 01:38pm

Artist Faiza Butt on representing Pakistan at the Venice Biennale

Titled ‘Punj •AB — A Sublime Terrain’, this year’s Pakistan Pavilion marks only the second time the country has participated in the Venice Biennale.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 12:42pm

US seeks to revoke citizenship of Pakistani-born doctor convicted in child exploitation case

The accused allegedly began contacting an 11-year-old girl online in 2007 or 2008 and continued communicating with her for several years.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 02:20pm

KP & FATA

5 cops among 8 injured in attacks on police vehicle, ambulance in KP's Bajaur

Ambulance targeted while en route to attack site to take cops to hospital; PTI, ANP MPAs condemn attacks.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 12:21pm

Iranian delegation led by Araghchi leaves after meeting PM, CDF Munir; Trump cancels US envoys' visit

According to DPM Dar, PM Shehbaz "emphasised on the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for peace and stability in the region and beyond"; Trump claims "tremendous infighting and confusion" within Iranian leadership.

Updated 26 Apr, 2026 01:34am

President Zardari arrives in China for visit focused on 'economic cooperation, CPEC'

FO says visit reflects the “deep commitment” of both sides to further strengthen strategic cooperative partnership.

Updated 26 Apr, 2026 12:28am

Venice Biennale excludes Israeli, Russian artists from awards in 'defence of human rights'

Jurors said they would not consider artists from countries whose leaders face ICC charges.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 11:15am

Cricket

PM Shehbaz 'graciously' approves spectators for PSL 11 final on franchise owners’ request: Naqvi

PCB chairman thanks premier for the decision to facilitate the fans.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 10:56am

US Democrats look to rein in Trump's war powers, this time on Cuba

US president did not specify what he plans to do with the island nation, but has frequently said he believes its government is on the verge of collapse.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 02:04pm

KP & FATA

CM Afridi warns of federal boycott over PTI founder’s case delays

He says that Pakistan was increasingly being recognised globally for its role in promoting peace and dialogue and that approach was long advocated by Imran Khan.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 09:56am

After Operation Sindoor, India has retreated from the world stage to the safety of its home theatre

Denying reality is the cornerstone of India’s worldview.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 09:50am

At UN panel organised by Pakistan, experts warn of terror groups exploiting AI, crypto

Pakistan's envoy to UN highlights challenges faced by governments in regulating social media platforms and ensuring accountability of technology companies.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:19am

Who pays for the transboundary harm caused by military aggression in the Middle East?

Timely claims can boost a state’s chances of compensation for war-related damage.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 09:26am

Editorial: The goal of Israel-Lebanon talks should be the complete withdrawal of Israel from Lebanese territory

Hezbollah’s arms are an internal Lebanese matter, and Israel and the US should not be dictating the terms.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 09:11am

US planning currency swap lines with countries including Gulf, Asian partners, treasury secretary says

Says the swap lines would be helpful to both the US and other nations.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 08:36am

University Road and the cost of urban neglect

On Sharea Faisal, the drive is smooth and uninterrupted. But on University Road, it feels as if my flight has been abruptly thrown into violent turbulence. Not even a kilometre in, and fatigue has already begun to set in.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 08:17am

Pakistan steps beyond facilitation in US-Iran diplomacy

From the UN chief to the Kremlin, Islamabad’s efforts to mediate between the US and Iran have won it universal acclaim. Although experts agree Pakistan is best-positioned for this role, lasting outcomes are not reached overnight and require structured engagement.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 08:14am

Front Page

Pakistan among top 10 countries facing acute food crisis

Multi-agency report says over 9m Pakistanis face "crisis"conditions; another 1.7 million in the more severe "emergency"category.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 07:49am

Front Page

Surprise fuel hike adds to burden on consumers

Petrol, diesel prices raised by Rs27 per litre.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 07:24am

Front Page

Pentagon claims full Hormuz blockade as world feels fuel crunch

US Gen Caine claims 34 ships turned around, but Hapag-Lloyd says one ship made it thru strait.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 07:53am

Balochistan

Cop martyred in attacks on police stations in Balochistan

The attackers also set ablaze several vehicles parked outside the police station.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:48am

Balochistan

Steps discussed to tackle Balochistan's Chagai climate risks

The Forest Department highlights its ongoing reforestation initiatives, aimed at expanding green cover and mitigating the environmental impacts of climate change in arid regions.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:42am

Balochistan

Suspected human trafficker arrested in Balochistan

The suspect is part of an organised human trafficking network.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:45am

Balochistan

JUI-F to boycott CM Bugti-led govt over madressah action

Seminaries declared a "red line", with warning of protest movement after May 2 deadline.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:33am

National

Pakistan gains from global ‘Big Catch-Up’ vaccination drive

Around 18.3 million vaccinated across 36 countries.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:24am

Punjab

Punjab snubs officers applying directly to Centre for Haj duties

Provincial govt warns such requests to religious affairs ministry without NOC will be deemed as "misconduct".

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:30am

ICT

Only essential goods exempt as twin cities on high alert

Red Zone and Extended Red Zone will remain completely closed for all types of traffic.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:29am

International

Macron leaves future open as political curtain nears

The 48-year-old may be hoping to mimic the trajectory of Jacques Chirac, president in the late 1990s and 2000s.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:30am

International

Israeli air strikes kill nine across Gaza

Israeli military has reported five soldiers killed in Gaza since the start of the truce.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:00am

International

Trump seeks to bring back firing squads for executions

There were 13 executions by lethal injection during Trump’s final six months in power, more than under any US leader in 120 years.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 07:42am

International

YouTube offers deepfake detection to Hollywood

Working with leading talent agencies to refine how likeness detection can protect entertainers.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:57am

KP & FATA

Three players hurt in scuffle during kabaddi match in Swabi

The referee tried to calm down the situation, but the players became emotional and started shouting at one another, trading fists.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:03am

KP & FATA

Senator demands inquiry into large-scale tree felling in South Waziristan

Insists there is lack of transparency regarding timber utilisation.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:59am

KP & FATA

Abandoned police post blown up in Bajaur

Incident occurred in the Kamar Sar area after terrorists placed explosive material beside the vacant police post.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:01am

KP & FATA

Man, nephew killed in Khyber car ambush

Unidentified gunmen ambushed the car in the Sultankhel area, killing both occupants on the spot.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:07am

ICT

Parents urged to vaccinate children against diseases in Islamabad

Pakistan began World Immunisation Week 2026 commemorations with renewed commitment to protect every child through vaccination.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:35am

ICT

LHC reshuffle raises concerns among Rawalpindi lawyers

The LHC chief justice replaced Justice Hassan with Justice Ahsan Raza Kazmi.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:32am

ICT

Social media post lands citizen in jail amid security alert in Islamabad

Man was accused of sharing a post on social media, saying, “Tarnol Railway Crossing is no less than the Strait of Hormuz. If it is closed, all our problems will be resolved”.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:26am

ICT

Special VVIP security cards issued to policemen deployed for security of Iranian delegation in Islamabad

This exercise is often implemented to prevent impostors from posing as security personnel, a police official says.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:30am

Punjab

Protest postponed, not cancelled: Fazlur Rahman

The JUI-F leader visited Dera Ghazi Khan to offer condolences on the demise of former Punjab governor Sardar Zulfiqar Khosa.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:48am

Punjab

Farmers threaten protest over wheat prices in Punjab

Kissan Ittehad President Mahmood Khokhar strongly criticised the government’s wheat policies.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:45am

Punjab

Father, son drown in Ravi during fishing

Three professional divers and nine trained swimmers participated in the search operation.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:43am

Punjab

Lahore High Court refuses to disclose policy on judges’ privileges

Cites immunity from right to information law.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:39am

Sindh

Imposing travel curbs over pending cases unjustified: Sindh High Court

Bench orders authorities to remove name of ex-PPL chief from exit control list.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:06am

Sindh

O/A level exams commence for thousands of students in Karachi

Traffic jams on roads leading to examination centres and lack of arrangements for waiting parents mark first day.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:03am

Sindh

Suspected gangster, street criminal shot dead in ‘encounters’ in Karachi

Suspect was an active member of the Mannu gang allegedly involved in robberies and other offences.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:23am

Sindh

Court cancels bail of YouTuber Rajab Butt over his absence

The case is about a viral video of the YouTuber in which he was, according to the complainant, allegedly “disrespecting” prayer (Namaz).

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 09:00am

Sindh

First batch of Gul Plaza traders receives compensation in Karachi

CM Murad distributes Rs511.7m among 200 out of 1,209 shopkeepers affected by Jan 17 blaze.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:07am

Football

US says Iran players welcome at World Cup amid Italy uproar

“No-one from the US has told them they can’t come,” Rubio said of Iran’s World Cup participation.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 10:14am

Tennis

Sinner overcomes Bonzi in record hunt at Madrid Open

The Frenchman survived five break points to reach a tie-break, where he also saved set point before edging ahead.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:06am

Cricket

Kingsmen come crashing down as bowlers seal playoff spot for United

Kusal Perera briefly counterattacked with a pair of boundaries, but his dismissal — top-edging a sweep off Shadab Khan — triggered another collapse.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:06am

Business

SECP proposes stricter money laundering rules

IBAN verification through SECP-notified entities to be accepted as valid proof of identity under proposed framework.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:06am

Business

Short-term inflation surges by 14 per cent

Energy prices drive 37th straight weekly rise.

Published 25 Apr, 2026 05:06am

Business

Stranded seafarers face peril in Hormuz

Conflict disrupts vital routes, delays rescue.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 08:39am

Back Page

Hezbollah says ceasefire ‘meaningless’ as fighting continues

Israel claims killing of six Hezbollah fighters; group downs Israeli Hermes 450 drone.

Updated 25 Apr, 2026 07:57am

Saturday, April 25, 2026