Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar has said that the army chief has issued directions for troops and medical resources to be deployed "as per need" in order to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

During a press briefing, DG ISPR said that the government has summoned the army for assistance in accordance with the Constitution.

Shopping malls, swimming pools, schools, wedding halls etc will remain closed, he said, adding that all "unnecessary movement" will also be prohibited.

"This is the time to take tough and difficult decisions on an individual, familial and societal basis," he said.

Opinion

Editorial

A difficult story
Updated 12 Jun, 2026

A difficult story

Unless productivity becomes the dominant target of economic policy, Pakistan will continue to oscillate between crises and fragile recovery.
Rough waters
12 Jun, 2026

Rough waters

AMONGST the key potential triggers for fresh conflict in South Asia is water. The Indian state is behaving in an...
Politicised football
12 Jun, 2026

Politicised football

ALMOST three-and-half years since Lionel Messi led Argentina to FIFA World Cup glory, the latest edition of...
GB polls’ aftermath
Updated 11 Jun, 2026

GB polls’ aftermath

The new administration must address the region’s issues proactively.
Peace in retreat
11 Jun, 2026

Peace in retreat

THE ceasefire announced in April was supposed to create space for negotiations. Instead, it has been repeatedly...
A few good men
11 Jun, 2026

A few good men

IT was a brave move, no doubt. This Tuesday, in the land of the Afghan Taliban, a few good men decided to take a...