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The Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested a young couple from the national capital for their alleged involvement in an espionage network linked to Pakistani intelligence operatives, officials said on Friday (Aug 28).The accused have been identified as Md Sahil and his wife, Sameera. Police said the couple had allegedly been in contact with Pakistan-based handlers through social media since 2024 and had provided logistical support to a Pakistan-based network.<h2>Couple allegedly sent Indian SIM cards to Pakistan</h2>According to the Special Cell, Sahil and Sameera allegedly procured Indian SIM cards and sent them to Pakistan through Dubai for use by Pakistani intelligence operatives.Police said the couple received around Rs 30,000 for sending eight Indian SIM cards to Pakistan during 2024 and 2025.Investigators alleged that the SIM cards were subsequently used to activate WhatsApp accounts. Pakistani operatives allegedly used those accounts to enter Indian WhatsApp groups and collect sensitive information.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Northern Range of the Delhi Police Special Cell busts an alleged ISI-backed, Pakistan-based espionage network and arrests a Delhi-based couple accused of working for Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) through social media since 2024. According to Delhi police, the… <a href="https://t.co/6qFbGdQ9j8">pic.twitter.com/6qFbGdQ9j8</a>&mdash; All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://x.com/airnewsalerts/status/2093218148501651655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-20-000-pakistanis-deported-from-gulf-countries-in-four-months-saudi-arabia-tops-list-here-s-why-1787388891905">Over 20,000 Pakistanis deported from Gulf countries in four months. Here's Why</a><h2>Investigation began with Sahil's arrest</h2>The probe began after the Special Cell developed information about an alleged Pakistan-based intelligence network operating in the Delhi NCR region. Police said the network had recruited local people to provide logistical assistance and procure Indian SIM cards.Sahil, a resident of Sarai Kale Khan, was arrested during the investigation. A forensic examination of his mobile phone allegedly revealed conversations with Pakistani intelligence agents.During interrogation, police said Sahil disclosed that he had first come into contact with a Pakistani agent on Instagram in 2024 through his friend Sameera, whom he later married.According to investigators, the Pakistani agent subsequently introduced the couple to another Pakistani intelligence operative, who allegedly cultivated them and offered financial incentives for their work.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-you-want-peace-prepare-for-war-naravane-warns-china-not-pakistan-is-india-s-main-competitor-1787283477651">'If you want peace, prepare for war': Ex-Army chief Manoj Naravane warns China, not Pakistan, is India's main competitor</a><h2>Police allege wider espionage role</h2>The Special Cell said the couple was allegedly asked to provide logistical support to the network and help recruit more people for espionage and field operations.Police further alleged that Sahil was tasked with finding individuals who could conduct reconnaissance around cantonment areas in different parts of India.He was also allegedly involved in obtaining details about Army personnel whose court-martial proceedings were pending before tribunals.<h2>Sameera arrested, phones recovered</h2>Following Sahil's interrogation, police arrested Sameera for her alleged role in supplying Indian SIM cards to Pakistani entities.The Special Cell said forensic examination of both suspects' mobile phones allegedly uncovered incriminating WhatsApp conversations with Pakistani handlers.Two mobile phones allegedly used in the conspiracy have also been recovered.Investigators are now examining the network's alleged structure and modus operandi, including its links with local operatives, over ground workers and sleeper cells.Police said the network allegedly used encrypted communication, platforms to coordinate with individuals in India. The investigation is continuing.&nbsp;

A young Delhi couple has been arrested in an alleged espionage network linked to Pakistani intelligence operatives. Police say the duo supplied Indian SIM cards that were allegedly used by handlers to operate WhatsApp accounts inside India.

The Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested a young couple from the national capital for their alleged involvement in an espionage network linked to Pakistani intelligence operatives, officials said on Friday (Aug 28). The accused have been identified as Md Sahil and his wife, Sameera. Police said the couple had allegedly been in contact with Pakistan-based handlers through social media since 2024 and had provided logistical support to a Pakistan-based network. Couple allegedly sent Indian SIM cards to Pakistan According to the Special Cell, Sahil and Sameera allegedly procured Indian SIM cards and sent them to Pakistan through Dubai for use by Pakistani intelligence operatives. Police said the couple received around Rs 30,000 for sending eight Indian SIM cards to Pakistan during 2024 and 2025. Investigators alleged that the SIM cards were subsequently used to activate WhatsApp accounts. Pakistani operatives allegedly used those accounts to enter Indian WhatsApp groups and collect sensitive information.

A young Delhi couple has been arrested in an alleged espionage network linked to Pakistani intelligence operatives. Police say the duo supplied Indian SIM cards that were allegedly used by handlers to operate WhatsApp accounts inside India.

ISI spy module busted in Delhi? Police arrest couple over alleged Pakistan links

Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan's son, Sulaiman Isa Khan, has slammed the military-led establishment for pushing the country deeper into dictatorship, stating the Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder's prolonged incarceration as a case in point. The elder son of Imran Khan alleged inhumane treatment being meted out to the former PM over the past several years. His son was speaking at a press conference organised to discuss Khan's illegal detention and ongoing health challenges. Sulaiman, alongside his brother Kasim Khan, International Counsel Jared Genser, and Advisor on International Affairs and International Media Sayed Bukhari, spoke out about the high-profile detention and the broader human rights situation in Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I would say, with some of the actions we've seen, I think yes, undoubtedly. You can see the influence of the military in a lot of the torture and the arbitrary detention of our father's general conditions. I don't think there's any doubt that the whole establishment is involved," Sulaiman told ANI during a virtual press conference. Echoing the family's deep concerns, Genser sharply criticised the state of democracy in Pakistan, placing the responsibility on military leadership. He accused Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir of leading an "authoritarian regime", arguing that the case of ex-PM Khan reflected a wider erosion of democratic institutions. "The actions that we're seeing taken on Imran Khan and his wife's cases are not the actions of a healthy, functioning democratic government," Genser said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/is-pakistan-s-military-aura-finally-cracking-1787680548393">Is Pakistan’s military aura finally cracking?</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Imran Khan has been incarcerated at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail since 2023. Imran Khan's family and international legal team have repeatedly raised concerns over his detention, treatment in custody and access to medical care.When asked about whether the current Pakistani regime was sliding towards dictatorship over the treatment towards Imran Khan, Sulaiman highlighted the visible escalation of military influence in the country's governance, adding that there was little doubt that the country's establishment was involved in "torture and the arbitrary detention" of their father's general conditions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-verdict-when-generals-rule-why-asim-munir-s-rise-has-pakistan-asking-hard-questions-1787673705468">The Verdict | When generals rule: Why Asim Munir’s rise has Pakistan asking hard questions</a><h2>Imran Khan controversy in Pakistan</h2>Uproar began in Pakistan after Pakistani Supreme Court's recent order on Imran Khan. The Supreme Court delivered an order on August 18 directing the government to move Khan from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within 48 hours. “We are mindful of the constitutional and legal obligation of the state, and consequently of the Supreme Court, to safeguard the life, health, dignity and security of persons in custody. A prisoner does not, by reason of his incarceration, cease to be entitled to humane treatment and necessary medical care,” the court said.&nbsp;On Saturday (Aug 22), Khan was taken out of jail to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for a brief medical examination instead of being transferred to the private Shifa International Hospital, as directed by the top court. Moreover, rather than being admitted to the hospital for treatment, Khan was taken back to the prison after the medical tests within a few hours, prompting PTI to express outrage.&nbsp;PTI moved the Supreme Court against the government, alleging that authorities violated its order. Khan’s sister Uzma Khan, who was present during his examination at PIMS, told reporters that her brother appeared physically fit but claimed he had told her that he was “being repeatedly tortured in prison”.“He repeatedly told me, ‘I have been subjected to injustice. I am being severely tortured.’ The Pakistani government blamed PTI for the transfer to the state-run facility instead of the private one ordered by the Supreme Court, citing heavy presence of party members outside the Shifa International Hospital.&nbsp;

Imran Khan’s son Sulaiman Isa Khan accused Pakistan’s military-led establishment of pushing the country towards dictatorship, citing his father’s prolonged detention and alleged mistreatment. His remarks came as Khan’s family and legal team raised fresh concerns over his health and custody

Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan's son, Sulaiman Isa Khan, has slammed the military-led establishment for pushing the country deeper into dictatorship, stating the Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder's prolonged incarceration as a case in point. The elder son of Imran Khan alleged inhumane treatment being meted out to the former PM over the past several years. His son was speaking at a press conference organised to discuss Khan's illegal detention and ongoing health challenges. Sulaiman, alongside his brother Kasim Khan, International Counsel Jared Genser, and Advisor on International Affairs and International Media Sayed Bukhari, spoke out about the high-profile detention and the broader human rights situation in Pakistan. "I would say, with some of the actions we've seen, I think yes, undoubtedly. You can see the influence of the military in a lot of the torture and the arbitrary detention of our father's general conditions. I don't think there's any doubt that the whole establishment is involved," Sulaiman told ANI during a virtual press conference. Echoing the family's deep concerns, Genser sharply criticised the state of democracy in Pakistan, placing the responsibility on military leadership. He accused Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir of leading an "authoritarian regime", arguing that the case of ex-PM Khan reflected a wider erosion of democratic institutions. "The actions that we're seeing taken on Imran Khan and his wife's cases are not the actions of a healthy, functioning democratic government," Genser said. Also Read: Is Pakistan’s military aura finally cracking? Imran Khan has been incarcerated at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail since 2023. Imran Khan's family and international legal team have repeatedly raised concerns over his detention, treatment in custody and access to medical care.When asked about whether the current Pakistani regime was sliding towards dictatorship over the treatment towards Imran Khan, Sulaiman highlighted the visible escalation of military influence in the country's governance, adding that there was little doubt that the country's establishment was involved in "torture and the arbitrary detention" of their father's general conditions. Also Read: The Verdict | When generals rule: Why Asim Munir’s rise has Pakistan asking hard questions Imran Khan controversy in Pakistan Uproar began in Pakistan after Pakistani Supreme Court's recent order on Imran Khan. The Supreme Court delivered an order on August 18 directing the government to move Khan from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within 48 hours. “We are mindful of the constitutional and legal obligation of the state, and consequently of the Supreme Court, to safeguard the life, health, dignity and security of persons in custody. A prisoner does not, by reason of his incarceration, cease to be entitled to humane treatment and necessary medical care,” the court said. On Saturday (Aug 22), Khan was taken out of jail to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for a brief medical examination instead of being transferred to the private Shifa International Hospital, as directed by the top court. Moreover, rather than being admitted to the hospital for treatment, Khan was taken back to the prison after the medical tests within a few hours, prompting PTI to express outrage. PTI moved the Supreme Court against the government, alleging that authorities violated its order. Khan’s sister Uzma Khan, who was present during his examination at PIMS, told reporters that her brother appeared physically fit but claimed he had told her that he was “being repeatedly tortured in prison”. “He repeatedly told me, ‘I have been subjected to injustice. I am being severely tortured.’ The Pakistani government blamed PTI for the transfer to the state-run facility instead of the private one ordered by the Supreme Court, citing heavy presence of party members outside the Shifa International Hospital.

Imran Khan’s son Sulaiman Isa Khan accused Pakistan’s military-led establishment of pushing the country towards dictatorship, citing his father’s prolonged detention and alleged mistreatment. His remarks came as Khan’s family and legal team raised fresh concerns over his health and custody

'Influence of military...': Imran Khan's son claims Pakistan sliding towards dictatorship

The owner of a sugar mill in Faisalabad, Pakistan, has written directly to the Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, seeking an investigation into the illegal closure of the unit and the “dubious” role of Punjab Cane Commissioner Amjad Hafeez and former Faisalabad Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir.&nbsp;The owner of Chanar Sugar Mills, Faisalabad, has alleged in the complaint that its “unlawful closure” by authorities who stalled its operations caused a financial loss of more than Rs. 2 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The mill was forcibly sealed by Mr. Amjad Hafeez, Cane Commissioner, and Mr. Nadeem Nasir, the then Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad, in a manner that was arbitrary, disproportionate, and inconsistent with due process,” it says in the letter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-enter-new-phase-in-iran-war-very-soon-says-house-speaker-mike-johnson-1787516303936">‘We took the head off the snake’: US to enter ‘new phase’ in Iran war very soon, says Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;The closure resulted in colossal financial losses of the complex estimated in excess of Rs 2 billion, besides affecting direct and indirect employment and sugar growers.&nbsp;The owner says that one of the grounds cited for the closure was outstanding liabilities owed to growers, which could have been cleared through continued operation of the mill. The deliberate closure stopped the revenue stream that was needed for clearing the dues.&nbsp;The sugar mill management also called for an impartial inquiry to determine the circumstances behind the closure and fix responsibility for any alleged irregularities.&nbsp;“Order an independent inquiry into the conduct of Mr. Amjad Hafeez and Mr. Nadeem Nasir, which has not remained confined to administrative overreach but has resulted in the deliberate annihilation of a functioning and a compliant industrial enterprise,” the letter further reads.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-orchestrating-sabotage-attacks-at-european-arms-plants-to-sow-discord-report-1787511138908">Russia orchestrating sabotage attacks at European arms plants to sow discord: Report</a>&nbsp;There has been an ongoing dispute over sugarcane payments and the regulation of sugar mills in Pakistan’s Punjab.&nbsp;In January 2026, Cane Commissioner Punjab Amjad Hafeez told a National Assembly committee that Chanar Sugar Mills had been stopped from crushing until outstanding dues were cleared.&nbsp;He said the mill was allowed to resume crushing only after payments were made to 246 small cane growers.&nbsp;In December 2025, the sugar mill paid Rs. 68.3 million to sugarcane growers.&nbsp;The allegations in the mill’s complaint have not been independently established.&nbsp;The letter also urges for Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) intervention in the revival of Chanar Sugar Mills Ltd and its associated energy concern.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-switch-to-economic-war-against-iran-is-admission-of-its-military-defeat-irgc-1787504157742">US switch to economic war against Iran is admission of its ‘military defeat’: IRGC</a>&nbsp;Chanar Sugar Mills Ltd and its associated concern Chanar Energy Limited (22 megawatt) located at Tandlianwala district Faisalabad have long contributed to the national economy through tax revenue, employment generation, export of electricity to national grid and the procurement of sugarcane from the farming community, it said.&nbsp;It further requested that SIFC be directed to facilitate an appropriate financial assistance and working-capital package through commercial banks or other relevant institutions, enabling the units to resume operations, protect employment, and ensure timely payment to growers.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Chairman of Farmers’ Union Khalid Hussain Bath claimed that the ruling party in Pakistan owns the majority of sugar mills and hinted at some involvement of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s son in the closure of Chanar Sugar Mill.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">مریم نواز کے بیٹے جنید صفدر اور ڈی جی فوڈ نے زبردستی ایک شوگر مل لینے کی کوشش کی۔ اُس شوگر مل کے مالک جنید کیانی نے فیلڈ مارشل سید عاصم منیر کو خط لکھا ہے کہ مجھے اِن لوگوں سے بچائیں، خالد حسین باٹھ <a href="https://t.co/gNx7bXWYBH">pic.twitter.com/gNx7bXWYBH</a>&mdash; Umer Inam (@UmerInamPk) <a href="https://x.com/UmerInamPk/status/2091739535860515180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Khalid Hussain Bath has also been seeking the resignation of Maryam Nawaz.&nbsp;The episode exposes the hard reality of power being concentrated in the hands of the army in Pakistan, since the mill owner chose to write to Asim Munir instead of taking up the issue with the government.

The sugar mill called for an impartial inquiry to determine the circumstances behind the closure and fix responsibility for any alleged irregularities. It also asked for a probe into the conduct of two officials, which it alleges has not remained confined to administrative overreach.

The owner of a sugar mill in Faisalabad, Pakistan, has written directly to the Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, seeking an investigation into the illegal closure of the unit and the “dubious” role of Punjab Cane Commissioner Amjad Hafeez and former Faisalabad Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir. The owner of Chanar Sugar Mills, Faisalabad, has alleged in the complaint that its “unlawful closure” by authorities who stalled its operations caused a financial loss of more than Rs. 2 billion. “The mill was forcibly sealed by Mr. Amjad Hafeez, Cane Commissioner, and Mr. Nadeem Nasir, the then Deputy Commissioner Faisalabad, in a manner that was arbitrary, disproportionate, and inconsistent with due process,” it says in the letter. Also Read: ‘We took the head off the snake’: US to enter ‘new phase’ in Iran war very soon, says Speaker Mike Johnson The closure resulted in colossal financial losses of the complex estimated in excess of Rs 2 billion, besides affecting direct and indirect employment and sugar growers. The owner says that one of the grounds cited for the closure was outstanding liabilities owed to growers, which could have been cleared through continued operation of the mill. The deliberate closure stopped the revenue stream that was needed for clearing the dues. The sugar mill management also called for an impartial inquiry to determine the circumstances behind the closure and fix responsibility for any alleged irregularities. “Order an independent inquiry into the conduct of Mr. Amjad Hafeez and Mr. Nadeem Nasir, which has not remained confined to administrative overreach but has resulted in the deliberate annihilation of a functioning and a compliant industrial enterprise,” the letter further reads. Also Read: Russia orchestrating sabotage attacks at European arms plants to sow discord: Report There has been an ongoing dispute over sugarcane payments and the regulation of sugar mills in Pakistan’s Punjab. In January 2026, Cane Commissioner Punjab Amjad Hafeez told a National Assembly committee that Chanar Sugar Mills had been stopped from crushing until outstanding dues were cleared. He said the mill was allowed to resume crushing only after payments were made to 246 small cane growers. In December 2025, the sugar mill paid Rs. 68.3 million to sugarcane growers. The allegations in the mill’s complaint have not been independently established. The letter also urges for Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) intervention in the revival of Chanar Sugar Mills Ltd and its associated energy concern. Also Read: US switch to economic war against Iran is admission of its ‘military defeat’: IRGC Chanar Sugar Mills Ltd and its associated concern Chanar Energy Limited (22 megawatt) located at Tandlianwala district Faisalabad have long contributed to the national economy through tax revenue, employment generation, export of electricity to national grid and the procurement of sugarcane from the farming community, it said. It further requested that SIFC be directed to facilitate an appropriate financial assistance and working-capital package through commercial banks or other relevant institutions, enabling the units to resume operations, protect employment, and ensure timely payment to growers. Meanwhile, Chairman of Farmers’ Union Khalid Hussain Bath claimed that the ruling party in Pakistan owns the majority of sugar mills and hinted at some involvement of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s son in the closure of Chanar Sugar Mill.

The sugar mill called for an impartial inquiry to determine the circumstances behind the closure and fix responsibility for any alleged irregularities. It also asked for a probe into the conduct of two officials, which it alleges has not remained confined to administrative overreach.

Sugar mill owner in Pakistan writes to Asim Munir over its ‘illegal’ closure, seeks probe and action against two officials

The issue of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's imprisonment has gone global with Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed strongly condemning Pakistani government's action against him. This comes after British politician Zac Goldsmith who is also Khan’s former brother-in-law wrote a letter to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband asking him to intervene with the Pakistan government over treatment of Khan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, speaking at the Pakistan Association of America's annual gathering in metro Detroit, El-Sayed called for the release of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He openly denounced Pakistan's government as a military "dictatorship" and stated that “democracy is not being allowed to take its place.” He specifically spoke out against the intimidation and imprisonment of political leaders, including former PM Khan. Drawing a parallel to Egypt—the country his parents immigrated from—El-Sayed argued that neither government should receive US financial aid or be shielded from criticism simply because they are American allies. &nbsp;He called for the restoration of genuine human rights and democratic governance for the Pakistani people.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-imran-khan-s-prison-treatment-causing-a-political-storm-in-pakistan-wion-decodes-1787476181869">Why is Imran Khan’s prison treatment causing a political storm in Pakistan? WION Decodes</a><h2>Imran Khan controversy in Pakistan</h2>Uproar began in Pakistan after Pakistani Supreme Court's recent order on Imran Khan. The Supreme Court delivered an order on August 18 directing the government to move Khan from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within 48 hours. “We are mindful of the constitutional and legal obligation of the state, and consequently of the Supreme Court, to safeguard the life, health, dignity and security of persons in custody. A prisoner does not, by reason of his incarceration, cease to be entitled to humane treatment and necessary medical care,” the court said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humane-treatment-and-proper-medical-care-sunil-gavaskar-kapil-dev-among-21-former-captains-to-appeal-pak-pm-for-imran-khan-1787497194755">'Humane treatment and proper medical care': Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 21 former captains to appeal Pak PM for Imran Khan</a>&nbsp;On Saturday (Aug 22), Khan was taken out of jail to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for a brief medical examination instead of being transferred to the private Shifa International Hospital, as directed by the top court. Moreover, rather than being admitted to the hospital for treatment, Khan was taken back to the prison after the medical tests within a few hours, prompting PTI to express outrage.&nbsp;PTI moved the Supreme Court against the government, alleging that authorities violated its order. Khan’s sister Uzma Khan, who was present during his examination at PIMS, told reporters that her brother appeared physically fit but claimed he had told her that he was “being repeatedly tortured in prison”.“He repeatedly told me, ‘I have been subjected to injustice. I am being severely tortured.’&nbsp;The Pakistani government blamed PTI for the transfer to the state-run facility instead of the private one ordered by the Supreme Court, citing heavy presence of party members outside the Shifa International Hospital. "Contempt has definitely happened. Wasn't it PTI who did it? Didn't they violate the court order?,” Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said. Speaking at a press conference, he said, “If somebody is in contempt, it is Imran Khan’s sister and his party... The prisoner’s family was in contempt. His party was in contempt by gathering people and creating issues for the authorities.” He insisted that the government fulfilled the court order by taking Khan to a medical checkup in the presence of his sister and doctors from the Shifa hospital.&nbsp;

Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed criticised Pakistan’s military establishment and called for Imran Khan’s release, democratic governance and human rights. His remarks come amid a row over Khan’s prison treatment

The issue of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's imprisonment has gone global with Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed strongly condemning Pakistani government's action against him. This comes after British politician Zac Goldsmith who is also Khan’s former brother-in-law wrote a letter to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband asking him to intervene with the Pakistan government over treatment of Khan. Now, speaking at the Pakistan Association of America's annual gathering in metro Detroit, El-Sayed called for the release of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He openly denounced Pakistan's government as a military "dictatorship" and stated that “democracy is not being allowed to take its place.” He specifically spoke out against the intimidation and imprisonment of political leaders, including former PM Khan. Drawing a parallel to Egypt—the country his parents immigrated from—El-Sayed argued that neither government should receive US financial aid or be shielded from criticism simply because they are American allies. He called for the restoration of genuine human rights and democratic governance for the Pakistani people. Also Read: Why is Imran Khan’s prison treatment causing a political storm in Pakistan? WION Decodes Imran Khan controversy in Pakistan Uproar began in Pakistan after Pakistani Supreme Court's recent order on Imran Khan. The Supreme Court delivered an order on August 18 directing the government to move Khan from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within 48 hours. “We are mindful of the constitutional and legal obligation of the state, and consequently of the Supreme Court, to safeguard the life, health, dignity and security of persons in custody. A prisoner does not, by reason of his incarceration, cease to be entitled to humane treatment and necessary medical care,” the court said. Also Read: 'Humane treatment and proper medical care': Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 21 former captains to appeal Pak PM for Imran Khan On Saturday (Aug 22), Khan was taken out of jail to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for a brief medical examination instead of being transferred to the private Shifa International Hospital, as directed by the top court. Moreover, rather than being admitted to the hospital for treatment, Khan was taken back to the prison after the medical tests within a few hours, prompting PTI to express outrage. PTI moved the Supreme Court against the government, alleging that authorities violated its order. Khan’s sister Uzma Khan, who was present during his examination at PIMS, told reporters that her brother appeared physically fit but claimed he had told her that he was “being repeatedly tortured in prison”. “He repeatedly told me, ‘I have been subjected to injustice. I am being severely tortured.’ The Pakistani government blamed PTI for the transfer to the state-run facility instead of the private one ordered by the Supreme Court, citing heavy presence of party members outside the Shifa International Hospital. "Contempt has definitely happened. Wasn't it PTI who did it? Didn't they violate the court order?,” Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said. Speaking at a press conference, he said, “If somebody is in contempt, it is Imran Khan’s sister and his party... The prisoner’s family was in contempt. His party was in contempt by gathering people and creating issues for the authorities.” He insisted that the government fulfilled the court order by taking Khan to a medical checkup in the presence of his sister and doctors from the Shifa hospital.

Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed criticised Pakistan’s military establishment and called for Imran Khan’s release, democratic governance and human rights. His remarks come amid a row over Khan’s prison treatment

Michigan Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed backs Imran Khan’s release, calls for end to US aid to Pakistan

A Hindu trader identified as Rakesh Kumar was shot dead by unidentified armed men in Pakistan's Balochistan on Friday (Aug 21) and police confirmed the incident late on Saturday (Aug 22). According to reports, some armed men broke into Rakesh Kumar's shop in the Qadirabad Stop area of Noshki Bazaar. When Kumar tried to resist, the men opened fire and fled. Kumar was killed on the spot. When the police received the information, they rushed to the area and took the body to the district hospital, where the victim was identified as Rakesh Kumar. A case was then registered against the unidentified armed men.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/berlin-pride-attack-suspect-shot-dead-by-police-incident-classified-as-islamist-terror-attack-1785091454375">Berlin Pride attack suspect shot dead by police; incident classified as ‘Islamist terror’ attack</a><h2>Call for justice</h2>Gurpal Singh, a member of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Assembly, condemned the killing and called it a cowardly act by anti-state and anti-Balochistan elements. In a statement on Saturday, he said, "The Hindu community has been an integral part of Balochistan for centuries and has repeatedly demonstrated its loyalty to Pakistan and Balochistan." The member of the provincial assembly also called on the Balochistan government and law-enforcement agencies to immediately identify and bring to justice the killers of Kumar, their facilitators and those behind the attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pakistani-tiktoker-ayesha-gilamana-shot-dead-in-taxila-younger-sister-injured-1786957829321">Pakistani TikToker Ayesha Gilamana shot dead in Taxila; younger sister injured</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, on Friday, Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir described militants active in Balochistan as “foreign-sponsored proxies.” News agency PTI reported that, according to an official statement of the army, Munir made the remarks without naming any country while interacting with political leaders and others from Balochistan. Balochistan remains entangled in a separatist insurgency, led by outfits including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).

A Hindu trader, Rakesh Kumar, was shot dead by unidentified armed men at his shop in Noshki Bazaar, Balochistan. Police registered a case after the attackers fled. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa lawmaker Gurpal Singh condemned the killing as a cowardly act

A Hindu trader identified as Rakesh Kumar was shot dead by unidentified armed men in Pakistan's Balochistan on Friday (Aug 21) and police confirmed the incident late on Saturday (Aug 22). According to reports, some armed men broke into Rakesh Kumar's shop in the Qadirabad Stop area of Noshki Bazaar. When Kumar tried to resist, the men opened fire and fled. Kumar was killed on the spot. When the police received the information, they rushed to the area and took the body to the district hospital, where the victim was identified as Rakesh Kumar. A case was then registered against the unidentified armed men. Also Read: Berlin Pride attack suspect shot dead by police; incident classified as ‘Islamist terror’ attack Call for justice Gurpal Singh, a member of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Assembly, condemned the killing and called it a cowardly act by anti-state and anti-Balochistan elements. In a statement on Saturday, he said, "The Hindu community has been an integral part of Balochistan for centuries and has repeatedly demonstrated its loyalty to Pakistan and Balochistan." The member of the provincial assembly also called on the Balochistan government and law-enforcement agencies to immediately identify and bring to justice the killers of Kumar, their facilitators and those behind the attack. Also Read: Pakistani TikToker Ayesha Gilamana shot dead in Taxila; younger sister injured Meanwhile, on Friday, Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir described militants active in Balochistan as “foreign-sponsored proxies.” News agency PTI reported that, according to an official statement of the army, Munir made the remarks without naming any country while interacting with political leaders and others from Balochistan. Balochistan remains entangled in a separatist insurgency, led by outfits including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).

A Hindu trader, Rakesh Kumar, was shot dead by unidentified armed men at his shop in Noshki Bazaar, Balochistan. Police registered a case after the attackers fled. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa lawmaker Gurpal Singh condemned the killing as a cowardly act

Hindu man shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Pakistan's Balochistan

Pakistan’s parliament has granted Army Chief Asim Munir sweeping powers and total control over all military operations, senior officers and personnel matters, including the authority to retire, discharge or retain personnel and even alter the prescribed retirement limits.The parliament passed the new military laws on Thursday that bestow upon Munir full control over the defence services.The new law establishes Defence Forces Headquarters (DFHQ), with Munir serving as the supreme commander of the three armed services.&nbsp;Pakistan’s National Assembly on Thursday passed the Defence Forces of Pakistan Act, 2026, and amendments to the National Command Authority Act, 2010, amid an Opposition walkout.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-trump-s-economic-terrorism-irgc-warns-of-using-more-precise-and-destructive-weapons-1787234880288">Iran slams Trump’s ‘economic terrorism’; IRGC warns of using ‘more precise and destructive’ weapons</a>&nbsp;The Defence Forces of Pakistan Act 2026 formally places the country’s Army, Navy and Air Force under a single command structure headed by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir.&nbsp;The legislation aims to put the new military hierarchy created by the constitutional changes into a legal framework. The new structure places Munir at the top of Pakistan’s unified military command.&nbsp;The draft says the CDF “shall exercise such powers and perform such functions as are necessary for multi-domain integration, operational cohesion, coordination and oversight of all matters which have joint, tri-services and strategic implications for the Armed Forces and national security of Pakistan”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-trump-s-economic-terrorism-irgc-warns-of-using-more-precise-and-destructive-weapons-1787234880288">Iran slams Trump’s ‘economic terrorism’; IRGC warns of using ‘more precise and destructive’ weapons</a>&nbsp;According to the draft, the CDF can “retire, release, accept, or reject resignation of, or discharge from service, or retain in service, or relax age, or service limit of retirement” of personnel covered by the armed forces laws, subject to the exclusions specified in the legislation.&nbsp;Moreover, the framework also allows the Pakistan government to assign additional responsibilities to the CDF.“Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, the CDF may exercise such other powers and perform such other functions as the Federal Government may prescribe,” the draft states.&nbsp;This provision gives government the scope to expand the CDF’s responsibilities beyond those specifically listed in the legislation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-gets-miffed-by-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-s-j-k-important-part-of-india-remark-issues-demarche-1787157507821">Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&amp;K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche</a>&nbsp;It also provides for executive directions and changes to rules and regulations to ensure that the new command structure can operate effectively.&nbsp;<h2>Munir now also Pak PM’s ‘principal military advisor’</h2>&nbsp;The Defence Forces Headquarters would be under the CDF, who would serve as the Prime Minister’s “principal military adviser” on national security, defence and matters concerning the armed forces.He would also be “responsible” to the federal government for matters involving command and control. The President is given a significant role in resolving difficulties or inconsistencies that may emerge while implementing the new framework.<h2>New nuclear command structure</h2>The restructuring is not limited to the conventional military command. The 27th Constitutional Amendment created the position of Commander of the National Strategic Command (CNSC), a four-star post responsible for the operational integration of Pakistan’s strategic forces.Last month, Gen Syed Aamer Raza was promoted from lieutenant general and appointed as the first CNSC.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-prepared-to-defend-all-allies-after-reports-of-iran-mulling-attacks-on-us-targets-in-europe-1787141867863">NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe</a>&nbsp;The Prime Minister’s Office called the amendments “a necessary process” following the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif presented the legislation in the National Assembly, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was also present in the house.&nbsp;The measures significantly expand the statutory role of the CDF, an office created only last year after the 27th Constitutional Amendment Act.&nbsp;The massive concentration of these powers in the hands of the army chief is particularly significant for a country that has witnessed military rule for long.

The Defence Forces of Pakistan Act 2026 formally places the country’s Army, Navy and Air Force under a single command structure headed by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Munir now has full control as the supreme commander of the three armed services.

Pakistan’s parliament has granted Army Chief Asim Munir sweeping powers and total control over all military operations, senior officers and personnel matters, including the authority to retire, discharge or retain personnel and even alter the prescribed retirement limits. The parliament passed the new military laws on Thursday that bestow upon Munir full control over the defence services. The new law establishes Defence Forces Headquarters (DFHQ), with Munir serving as the supreme commander of the three armed services. Pakistan’s National Assembly on Thursday passed the Defence Forces of Pakistan Act, 2026, and amendments to the National Command Authority Act, 2010, amid an Opposition walkout. Also Read: Iran slams Trump’s ‘economic terrorism’; IRGC warns of using ‘more precise and destructive’ weapons The Defence Forces of Pakistan Act 2026 formally places the country’s Army, Navy and Air Force under a single command structure headed by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. The legislation aims to put the new military hierarchy created by the constitutional changes into a legal framework. The new structure places Munir at the top of Pakistan’s unified military command. The draft says the CDF “shall exercise such powers and perform such functions as are necessary for multi-domain integration, operational cohesion, coordination and oversight of all matters which have joint, tri-services and strategic implications for the Armed Forces and national security of Pakistan”. Also Read: Iran slams Trump’s ‘economic terrorism’; IRGC warns of using ‘more precise and destructive’ weapons According to the draft, the CDF can “retire, release, accept, or reject resignation of, or discharge from service, or retain in service, or relax age, or service limit of retirement” of personnel covered by the armed forces laws, subject to the exclusions specified in the legislation. Moreover, the framework also allows the Pakistan government to assign additional responsibilities to the CDF. “Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, the CDF may exercise such other powers and perform such other functions as the Federal Government may prescribe,” the draft states. This provision gives government the scope to expand the CDF’s responsibilities beyond those specifically listed in the legislation. Also Read: Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche It also provides for executive directions and changes to rules and regulations to ensure that the new command structure can operate effectively. Munir now also Pak PM’s ‘principal military advisor’ The Defence Forces Headquarters would be under the CDF, who would serve as the Prime Minister’s “principal military adviser” on national security, defence and matters concerning the armed forces. He would also be “responsible” to the federal government for matters involving command and control. The President is given a significant role in resolving difficulties or inconsistencies that may emerge while implementing the new framework. New nuclear command structure The restructuring is not limited to the conventional military command. The 27th Constitutional Amendment created the position of Commander of the National Strategic Command (CNSC), a four-star post responsible for the operational integration of Pakistan’s strategic forces. Last month, Gen Syed Aamer Raza was promoted from lieutenant general and appointed as the first CNSC. Also Read: NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe The Prime Minister’s Office called the amendments “a necessary process” following the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif presented the legislation in the National Assembly, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was also present in the house. The measures significantly expand the statutory role of the CDF, an office created only last year after the 27th Constitutional Amendment Act. The massive concentration of these powers in the hands of the army chief is particularly significant for a country that has witnessed military rule for long.

The Defence Forces of Pakistan Act 2026 formally places the country’s Army, Navy and Air Force under a single command structure headed by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Munir now has full control as the supreme commander of the three armed services.

Pakistan’s new military law gives Asim Munir sweeping powers; he can now hire, fire, retire forces

New Delhi: Authorities in New Delhi have removed unauthorised structures and encroachments outside the Pakistan High Commission. The structures, located near the visa section of the Pakistani mission, stood outside the compound’s designated perimeter and were cleared by the concerned agencies, it is learnt.&nbsp;The tit-for-tat move comes days after Pakistani authorities dismantled parking poles outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Reciprocal actions have been the norm in the strained ties of the two countries. Historical precedents include mutual staff reductions, tighter access controls and administrative restrictions, steps India has matched whenever required, after Pakistani action.&nbsp;The move comes against the backdrop of persistently strained bilateral ties due to Pakistan’s support for cross-border terror against India. Relations between the two countries remain at one of their lowest points in decades, more than a year after a four-day military confrontation that followed a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India.&nbsp;In April 2025, Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 people in Pahalgam, Union territory of J&amp;K. It was followed by India's counter-terror “Operation Sindoor”, with strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The brief conflict, the most serious since the 1999 Kargil War, ended with Pakistan reaching out to India for a ceasefire.&nbsp;Since then, formal diplomacy has effectively frozen. Trade is suspended, the main land border crossing is closed, and visa regimes have been sharply restricted. High commissions in both capitals operate with reduced staff. India placed the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, stating it would remain so until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably” ends support for cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;New Delhi insists normal neighbourly relations are possible only in an atmosphere free of violence and terrorism. Military channels have not been completely severed. Weekly telephone calls between the Directors General of Military Operations continue, and the ceasefire have largely held with only limited reported violations.

The tit-for-tat move comes days after Pakistani authorities dismantled parking poles outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Reciprocal actions have been the norm in the strained ties of the two countries.

New Delhi: Authorities in New Delhi have removed unauthorised structures and encroachments outside the Pakistan High Commission. The structures, located near the visa section of the Pakistani mission, stood outside the compound’s designated perimeter and were cleared by the concerned agencies, it is learnt. The tit-for-tat move comes days after Pakistani authorities dismantled parking poles outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Reciprocal actions have been the norm in the strained ties of the two countries. Historical precedents include mutual staff reductions, tighter access controls and administrative restrictions, steps India has matched whenever required, after Pakistani action. The move comes against the backdrop of persistently strained bilateral ties due to Pakistan’s support for cross-border terror against India. Relations between the two countries remain at one of their lowest points in decades, more than a year after a four-day military confrontation that followed a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India. In April 2025, Pakistan-trained terrorists killed 26 people in Pahalgam, Union territory of J&K. It was followed by India's counter-terror “Operation Sindoor”, with strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The brief conflict, the most serious since the 1999 Kargil War, ended with Pakistan reaching out to India for a ceasefire. Since then, formal diplomacy has effectively frozen. Trade is suspended, the main land border crossing is closed, and visa regimes have been sharply restricted. High commissions in both capitals operate with reduced staff. India placed the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, stating it would remain so until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably” ends support for cross-border terrorism. New Delhi insists normal neighbourly relations are possible only in an atmosphere free of violence and terrorism. Military channels have not been completely severed. Weekly telephone calls between the Directors General of Military Operations continue, and the ceasefire have largely held with only limited reported violations.

The tit-for-tat move comes days after Pakistani authorities dismantled parking poles outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Reciprocal actions have been the norm in the strained ties of the two countries.

Authorities clear unauthorised structures outside Pakistan High Commission after poles removed near Indian mission in Islamabad

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor’s description of Jammu and Kashmir as an “important part of India” on Wednesday during his visit to Srinagar has riled Islamabad. Pakistan objected to Gor’s remark and went on to call it “irresponsible” and “factually incorrect”. Gor’s remark assumed significance, as he also serves as the Special Envoy for South and Central Asia under the Trump administration.&nbsp;Pakistan’s ministry of foreign affairs summoned the US Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad to lodge a strong demarche over Gor’s remarks, which came during his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-prepared-to-defend-all-allies-after-reports-of-iran-mulling-attacks-on-us-targets-in-europe-1787141867863">NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe</a>&nbsp;Islamabad “strongly condemned and categorically rejected” the characterisation of Jammu and Kashmir as “a part of India", Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said. It also urged the United States to ensure that its public statements remain consistent with what Islamabad describes as the “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-says-agency-found-tonnes-of-nuclear-material-in-syria-1787067845191">IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria</a>&nbsp;“It was highlighted that the irresponsible statement by the U.S. Ambassador negated the long-standing and well-documented position of the United States on the Jammu &amp; Kashmir dispute, and also ran contrary to the United States’ commitment to supremacy of international law and the UN Charter,” the ministry said.&nbsp;Sergio Gor made the remark after arriving in Srinagar for his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir as the US ambassador. He met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and described the region as an “important part of India”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-z-threat-is-the-new-jaantay-nahin-ho-mera-baap-kaun-hai-omar-abdullah-reacts-to-viral-video-at-kargil-checkpoint-1787153305120">Gen Z ‘threat’ is the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’: Omar Abdullah reacts to viral video at Kargil checkpoint</a>&nbsp;“It’s a pleasure to be here… This is an important part of India. I am here, visiting for the first time. It is an incredibly beautiful place. I am thrilled to be here, thrilled to see this place,” Gor said.&nbsp;Gor also indicated that the United States could review its travel advisory for the Union Territory.&nbsp;Meanwhile, reacting to Gor’s statement in Srinagar, Former Union Minister MJ Akbar said, “Sergio Gor’s statement on the status of Jammu and Kashmir is most welcome and perhaps long overdue. I hope this is not another exercise in giving India President Trump’s crumbs while the main meal is being served elsewhere... If the American ambassador in Islamabad repeats it, then it will raise more confidence in India about the long-lasting implications of such a position. We hope that this will also end the rather American habit of seeing this region with cross-ties because of its alliance with Pakistan... Perhaps Pakistan’s most dependable ally has also seen the reality of what is happening today in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, where the people are suffering from poverty and persecution, because Pakistan has always treated POK as a colony.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mapusa, Goa: On &quot;This is an important part of India&quot; statement by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, in Srinagar, Former Union Minister MJ Akbar says, &quot;Sergio Gor&#39;s statement on the status of Jammu and Kashmir is most welcome and perhaps long overdue. I hope this is not… <a href="https://t.co/Ukwcu2TsYy">pic.twitter.com/Ukwcu2TsYy</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2090093977232171219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

(With inputs from Sidhant Sibal and Idrees Lone)

Pakistan objected to US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor’s remark and went on to call it “irresponsible” and “factually incorrect”. Gor’s remark assumed significance, as he also serves as the Special Envoy for South and Central Asia under the Trump administration.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor’s description of Jammu and Kashmir as an “important part of India” on Wednesday during his visit to Srinagar has riled Islamabad. Pakistan objected to Gor’s remark and went on to call it “irresponsible” and “factually incorrect”. Gor’s remark assumed significance, as he also serves as the Special Envoy for South and Central Asia under the Trump administration. Pakistan’s ministry of foreign affairs summoned the US Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad to lodge a strong demarche over Gor’s remarks, which came during his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. Also Read: NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe Islamabad “strongly condemned and categorically rejected” the characterisation of Jammu and Kashmir as “a part of India", Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said. It also urged the United States to ensure that its public statements remain consistent with what Islamabad describes as the “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir. Also Read: IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria “It was highlighted that the irresponsible statement by the U.S. Ambassador negated the long-standing and well-documented position of the United States on the Jammu & Kashmir dispute, and also ran contrary to the United States’ commitment to supremacy of international law and the UN Charter,” the ministry said. Sergio Gor made the remark after arriving in Srinagar for his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir as the US ambassador. He met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and described the region as an “important part of India”. Also Read: Gen Z ‘threat’ is the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’: Omar Abdullah reacts to viral video at Kargil checkpoint “It’s a pleasure to be here… This is an important part of India. I am here, visiting for the first time. It is an incredibly beautiful place. I am thrilled to be here, thrilled to see this place,” Gor said. Gor also indicated that the United States could review its travel advisory for the Union Territory. Meanwhile, reacting to Gor’s statement in Srinagar, Former Union Minister MJ Akbar said, “Sergio Gor’s statement on the status of Jammu and Kashmir is most welcome and perhaps long overdue. I hope this is not another exercise in giving India President Trump’s crumbs while the main meal is being served elsewhere... If the American ambassador in Islamabad repeats it, then it will raise more confidence in India about the long-lasting implications of such a position. We hope that this will also end the rather American habit of seeing this region with cross-ties because of its alliance with Pakistan... Perhaps Pakistan’s most dependable ally has also seen the reality of what is happening today in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, where the people are suffering from poverty and persecution, because Pakistan has always treated POK as a colony.”

Pakistan objected to US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor’s remark and went on to call it “irresponsible” and “factually incorrect”. Gor’s remark assumed significance, as he also serves as the Special Envoy for South and Central Asia under the Trump administration.

Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche

In a big decision, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered on Tuesday (Aug 18) that former Prime Minister Imran Khan ​will be moved to hospital from jail. The Supreme Court decision was announced by Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. This was a longstanding demand of his party and family, who had raised concerns about his health. Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, 73, has been in jail since August ​2023, following his ouster in 2022. Khan's spokesperson Naeem Haider Panjutha said on X that the court has directed Khan be moved to Shifa ‌International ⁠Hospital within 48 hours and remain there until September 16.&nbsp;After the order, Imran Khan met his sister and wife for the first time in nine months at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail. His sister, Noreen Niazi, met him for the first time this year for 15 minutes, according to a Dawn report. Separately, Khan's jailed wife Bushra Bibi also met with her family on Tuesday in a conference room in the jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-s-kin-alleges-he-has-lost-85-of-his-vision-1770915782982">Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's son alleges he has lost 85% of his vision</a>&nbsp;<blockquote>"It's a very welcome order and we wish it had happened sooner so his eye and general health would not have deteriorated this much," ​PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari said. "He should remain in hospital until all ​doctors are satisfied," he said.</blockquote>Khan faces several cases and has been convicted in five major cases. Of these, two convictions have been overturned — the Cipher case and the Iddat marriage case. One conviction, the original Toshakhana case, has been suspended, while two convictions remain active: the Toshakhana-II case and the Al-Qadir Trust case. Khan has maintained that cases against him are “politically driven.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The latest report also comes after former Pakistan president Arif Alvi also said that Khan’s medical reports were “alarming”, citing concerns over anxiety, palpitations and high blood pressure. In a post on X, Alvi said, “Imran Khan’s medical reports are alarming. I have gone through them with several specialists, and I am writing this in plain language so every Pakistani can understand exactly what is happening.” Alvi said the issues that concerned him most were Khan’s “anxiety and stress levels”, “palpitations,” and “high blood pressure.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-dead-pakistani-journalist-s-claim-raises-serious-questions-about-his-health-1786534280781">Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health</a>&nbsp;Imran Khan's jail term is filled with reports of his death and deteriorating health. In November, 2025, his sisters filed a contempt of court petition against the Adiala jail superintendent and other officials and his sons Sulaiman Khan and Kasim Khan, demanded proof of his life from the authorities. The family and lawyers have accused Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir of exerting total control over the state.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered former PM Imran Khan to be moved from jail to Shifa International Hospital within 48 hours over health concerns. The 73-year-old PTI leader has been imprisoned since 2023, with his family and lawyers repeatedly raising concerns about his health

In a big decision, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered on Tuesday (Aug 18) that former Prime Minister Imran Khan will be moved to hospital from jail. The Supreme Court decision was announced by Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. This was a longstanding demand of his party and family, who had raised concerns about his health. Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, 73, has been in jail since August 2023, following his ouster in 2022. Khan's spokesperson Naeem Haider Panjutha said on X that the court has directed Khan be moved to Shifa ‌International ⁠Hospital within 48 hours and remain there until September 16. After the order, Imran Khan met his sister and wife for the first time in nine months at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail. His sister, Noreen Niazi, met him for the first time this year for 15 minutes, according to a Dawn report. Separately, Khan's jailed wife Bushra Bibi also met with her family on Tuesday in a conference room in the jail. Also Read: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's son alleges he has lost 85% of his vision "It's a very welcome order and we wish it had happened sooner so his eye and general health would not have deteriorated this much," PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari said. "He should remain in hospital until all doctors are satisfied," he said. Khan faces several cases and has been convicted in five major cases. Of these, two convictions have been overturned — the Cipher case and the Iddat marriage case. One conviction, the original Toshakhana case, has been suspended, while two convictions remain active: the Toshakhana-II case and the Al-Qadir Trust case. Khan has maintained that cases against him are “politically driven.” The latest report also comes after former Pakistan president Arif Alvi also said that Khan’s medical reports were “alarming”, citing concerns over anxiety, palpitations and high blood pressure. In a post on X, Alvi said, “Imran Khan’s medical reports are alarming. I have gone through them with several specialists, and I am writing this in plain language so every Pakistani can understand exactly what is happening.” Alvi said the issues that concerned him most were Khan’s “anxiety and stress levels”, “palpitations,” and “high blood pressure.” Also Read: Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health Imran Khan's jail term is filled with reports of his death and deteriorating health. In November, 2025, his sisters filed a contempt of court petition against the Adiala jail superintendent and other officials and his sons Sulaiman Khan and Kasim Khan, demanded proof of his life from the authorities. The family and lawyers have accused Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir of exerting total control over the state.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered former PM Imran Khan to be moved from jail to Shifa International Hospital within 48 hours over health concerns. The 73-year-old PTI leader has been imprisoned since 2023, with his family and lawyers repeatedly raising concerns about his deteriorating health

Pakistan Supreme Court allows Imran Khan to be shifted to hospital from jail, former PM meets wife, sister

The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia has warned Pakistani nationals not to beg during their stay during upcoming Umrah. It has directed all Umrah pilgrims and workers to comply fully with Saudi laws and the conditions attached to their visas.&nbsp;The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia shared an AI-generated video on its X account with the caption ‘Important Message for All Umrah Pilgrims and Workers Coming from Pakistan’. The AI video depicts a man being arrested by Saudi authorities and taken to jail. The video accompanies an audio message that warns about the consequences of breaking local laws.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-refutes-trump-s-claim-of-backchannel-talks-calls-it-result-of-his-delusion-1786980019117">IRGC refutes Trump’s claim of backchannel talks, calls it ‘result of his delusions’</a>&nbsp;The embassy said Saudi authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards begging and unauthorised solicitation, particularly around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina.It advised visitors from Pakistan not to provide or use unauthorised local services and to ensure that any financial collection or assistance is carried out through legal channels only.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">پاکستان سے انے والے تمام عمرہ زائرین اور ورکرز کے نام اہم پیغام <a href="https://t.co/BzOScR3lFP">pic.twitter.com/BzOScR3lFP</a>&mdash; Pakistan Embassy Saudi Arabia (@PakinSaudiArab) <a href="https://x.com/PakinSaudiArab/status/2089032487607341308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The embassy also reminded pilgrims and workers that they must follow the terms and duration of their visas. They are also strictly advised against overstaying their visas or engaging in activities that are not permitted under their visa category.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-trump-s-renewed-appeal-to-block-e-jean-carroll-award-1786975184644">Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award</a>&nbsp;The strict advisory to citizens travelling to Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage warns against begging, unauthorised collection of money and violations of Saudi visa rules. The message warns that violations could result in arrest, detention and deportation.&nbsp;The embassy’s message comes amid concerns over incidents involving Pakistani citizens begging in Saudi Arabia. The embassy emphasised that visitors should remain mindful of their conduct and avoid actions that could lead to legal consequences.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-cannot-live-with-war-former-iran-president-warns-against-prolonged-conflict-urges-diplomacy-1786912223136">‘We cannot live with war’: Former Iran president warns against prolonged conflict, urges diplomacy</a>&nbsp;The warning comes amid repeated reports of Pakistani nationals being detained for allegedly begging in Saudi Arabia. In June 2026, reports emerged of Pakistani citizens being apprehended in Riyadh over such activities.The pilgrimage involves a series of rituals carried out over several days, many of them outdoors.&nbsp;The advisory also urged Pakistani pilgrims visiting the Haramain — Mecca and Medina — to avoid unauthorised activities like providing unofficial wheelchair services, offering haircuts or barber services, conducting unauthorised monetary transactions and lending money to others.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-mataram-row-which-section-of-the-new-law-can-put-sonia-gandhi-in-the-dock-1786971951028">Vande Mataram row: Which section of the new law can put Sonia Gandhi in the dock</a>&nbsp;Umrah is a voluntary Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that can be performed at any time of the year. Often called the “minor pilgrimage”, it involves four core rituals: entering a sacred state of purity called Ihram, walking seven times around the Kaaba (Tawaf), walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa (Sa'i), and cutting or shaving the hair (Halq or Taqsir).&nbsp;Umrah is voluntary and not one of the mandatory Five Pillars of Islam, unlike Hajj. Umrah can be done year-round, while Hajj takes place on specific dates during the Islamic lunar month of Dhu al-Hijjah.&nbsp;The multiple-entry Umrah visa, introduced in July, remains valid for 365 days from the date it is issued. During this period, eligible pilgrims can enter Saudi Arabia more than once.

The Pakistani Embassy said Saudi authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards begging and unauthorised solicitation, particularly around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina. The message warns that violations could result in arrest, detention and deportation.

The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia has warned Pakistani nationals not to beg during their stay during upcoming Umrah. It has directed all Umrah pilgrims and workers to comply fully with Saudi laws and the conditions attached to their visas. The Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia shared an AI-generated video on its X account with the caption ‘Important Message for All Umrah Pilgrims and Workers Coming from Pakistan’. The AI video depicts a man being arrested by Saudi authorities and taken to jail. The video accompanies an audio message that warns about the consequences of breaking local laws. Also Read: IRGC refutes Trump’s claim of backchannel talks, calls it ‘result of his delusions’ The embassy said Saudi authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards begging and unauthorised solicitation, particularly around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina. It advised visitors from Pakistan not to provide or use unauthorised local services and to ensure that any financial collection or assistance is carried out through legal channels only.

The Pakistani Embassy said Saudi authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards begging and unauthorised solicitation, particularly around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina. The message warns that violations could result in arrest, detention and deportation.

‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws

Even as Pakistan is desperately trying to project its military strength on a global stage, the ground reality is stark.&nbsp;The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed to have killed 32 Pak army soldiers in August itself.&nbsp;Now, Pakistan army chief Asim Munir's forces have been accused of bombing their own backyard of Balochistan.&nbsp;Key human rights activist Mir Yar Baloch, who claims to represent 'The Republic of Balochistan,' stated that the air strikes were carried out by F-16 fighter jets in the Surab region.According to him, at least 30 innocent Baloch civilians, including women and children were killed in Pakistan's attack, whereas dozens others were left injured.&nbsp;Amid this, he appealed to the Baloch people to mark Pakistan's Independence Day on August 14 as 'Black Day' by hoisting black flags at their homes and wearing black armbands.&nbsp;However, Pakistan had a very different version to offer. According to the country's military, 8 militants died in Surab after the premature detonation of a bomb which they were preparing. This also reportedly caused the death of three civilians.&nbsp;In a subsequent operation, Munir's forces claimed to have killed ten more militants, who were reportedly trying to escape.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan's operation came a day after BLA claimed to have killed 32 military personnel from August one to eight. Its attacks reportedly targeted Pakistani military convoys, armoured vehicles, camps, police posts, bridges and railway infrastructure. It also claimed that several military vehicles were destroyed. This is not all. Balochistan's energy sector is also under the radar. A powerful blast damaged an 18-inch gas pipeline in Balochistan's Bolan area. Huge flames were reportedly visible from a distance following the explosion. This left many areas of Balochistan such as Quetta, Mastung, Kalat and Ziarat without gas supply. In another reflection of the deteriorating law and order in Balochistan, seven miners working for a private copper mining firm in Chagai district were kidnapped by unidentified armed men.The abductors also took away vehicles and solar panels. Pakistan has long struggled to contain activities of the Baloch rebels, which are seeking independence of Balochistan from the country. In July, gunmen killed nine police officers in an attack on a checkpost at the Mangi Dam project in Balochistan. Earlier in May, over 30 people were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden car into a train in Quetta, which was carrying Pakistani security personnel and their families. The worsening security situation in Balochistan is also evident from hard data. According to the South Asia Terrorism portal, this province has already witnessed 451 incidents of killing in 2026 so far. 321 civilians and 584 security personnel have lost their lives. On the other hand, over 770 militants have been killed. With turmoil growing in Khyber Pakthunkhwa as well as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a key question arises. Is the Munir-led hybrid regime in Pakistan even in a realistic position to provide security to other countries when it is unable to manage the chaos within?

Human rights activist Mir Yar Baloch, who claims to represent 'The Republic of Balochistan,' said that the air strikes were carried out by F-16 fighter jets in the Surab region. At least 30 innocent Balochs, including women and children, were killed in Pakistan's attack.

Even as Pakistan is desperately trying to project its military strength on a global stage, the ground reality is stark. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed to have killed 32 Pak army soldiers in August itself. Now, Pakistan army chief Asim Munir's forces have been accused of bombing their own backyard of Balochistan. Key human rights activist Mir Yar Baloch, who claims to represent 'The Republic of Balochistan,' stated that the air strikes were carried out by F-16 fighter jets in the Surab region. According to him, at least 30 innocent Baloch civilians, including women and children were killed in Pakistan's attack, whereas dozens others were left injured. Amid this, he appealed to the Baloch people to mark Pakistan's Independence Day on August 14 as 'Black Day' by hoisting black flags at their homes and wearing black armbands. However, Pakistan had a very different version to offer. According to the country's military, 8 militants died in Surab after the premature detonation of a bomb which they were preparing. This also reportedly caused the death of three civilians. In a subsequent operation, Munir's forces claimed to have killed ten more militants, who were reportedly trying to escape.

Human rights activist Mir Yar Baloch, who claims to represent 'The Republic of Balochistan,' said that the air strikes were carried out by F-16 fighter jets in the Surab region. At least 30 innocent Balochs, including women and children, were killed in Pakistan's attack.

Pakistan bombs Pakistan: ‘Air strikes’ in Balochistan after BLA kills 32 soldiers | Gravitas

Balochistan covers 43.6 per cent of Pakistan’s landmass — almost half the country. It is also rich in natural gas, copper, gold, coal and other minerals, while its coastline and Gwadar give Pakistan enormous strategic value. &nbsp;Yet the province remains Pakistan’s least populated and among its most economically disadvantaged regions. The contradiction is glaring: extraordinary resources, but persistent grievances over who controls them, who benefits from them and how much comes back to the people who live above them.Balochistan is also a cultural asset — Baloch, Brahui, Pashtun and other communities contributing to a diversity that cannot be reduced to statistics.But today, it is increasingly defined by unrest. Insurgency, attacks, enforced disappearances and allegations of extrajudicial killings have deepened a crisis of trust. Human-rights groups continue to document disappearances and killings, while families demanding answers have remained at the centre of the struggle. And women have become the faces of resistance and separation in the face of oppression.That should concern Islamabad. Because when mothers, sisters and daughters become the most visible voices demanding justice for missing men, the crisis stops being merely about security. It becomes about legitimacy. Then there is geography. Balochistan borders Iran, Afghanistan and the Arabian Sea, placing Pakistan at a critical crossroads between South Asia, the Middle East and Central Asia.<h2>So what is Pakistan without Balochistan?</h2>A country stripped of territory, resources, strategic depth and a vital part of its identity. But the deeper question is what Pakistan has become with Balochistan. A nation cannot be sustained by borders alone. It must earn the loyalty of its people. And if Pakistan has failed anywhere, it has failed at the most fundamental role of a nation: to be a nation for its people.&nbsp;

Balochistan holds vast mineral resources and strategic importance, yet remains economically disadvantaged amid a long-running insurgency and human rights crisis.

Balochistan covers 43.6 per cent of Pakistan’s landmass — almost half the country. It is also rich in natural gas, copper, gold, coal and other minerals, while its coastline and Gwadar give Pakistan enormous strategic value. Yet the province remains Pakistan’s least populated and among its most economically disadvantaged regions. The contradiction is glaring: extraordinary resources, but persistent grievances over who controls them, who benefits from them and how much comes back to the people who live above them. Balochistan is also a cultural asset — Baloch, Brahui, Pashtun and other communities contributing to a diversity that cannot be reduced to statistics. But today, it is increasingly defined by unrest. Insurgency, attacks, enforced disappearances and allegations of extrajudicial killings have deepened a crisis of trust. Human-rights groups continue to document disappearances and killings, while families demanding answers have remained at the centre of the struggle. And women have become the faces of resistance and separation in the face of oppression. That should concern Islamabad. Because when mothers, sisters and daughters become the most visible voices demanding justice for missing men, the crisis stops being merely about security. It becomes about legitimacy. Then there is geography. Balochistan borders Iran, Afghanistan and the Arabian Sea, placing Pakistan at a critical crossroads between South Asia, the Middle East and Central Asia. So what is Pakistan without Balochistan? A country stripped of territory, resources, strategic depth and a vital part of its identity. But the deeper question is what Pakistan has become with Balochistan. A nation cannot be sustained by borders alone. It must earn the loyalty of its people. And if Pakistan has failed anywhere, it has failed at the most fundamental role of a nation: to be a nation for its people.

Balochistan holds vast mineral resources and strategic importance, yet remains economically disadvantaged amid a long-running insurgency and human rights crisis.

The verdict: What is Pakistan without Balochistan? A nation losing its own soul

A British national was allegedly shot dead in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during clashes between security forces and protesters this week. The cases were reported by the Guardian as it highlight how the unrest in the PoK region has affected British nationals with family links to the area. The man has been identified by Mohammad Akhtar, a 50-year-old resident of Peterborough, who was in Kotli when violence broke out on June 9. His family said that he was not participating in the protests and was staying near the area where demonstrations were taking place.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-minister-facing-uk-sexual-assault-case-elected-to-pok-assembly-1785940424326">Former Pakistan minister facing UK sexual assault case elected to PoK assembly</a>&nbsp;According to his cousin Mohammad Saad who spoke to the Guardian, Pakistani security forces opened fire on a gathering of protesters demanding economic and electoral reforms. "He wasn't taking part in protests but the demonstrations were happening close to his house. There was firing by the forces that day and he was hit by a stray bullet. There was a bullet wound on the side of his chest," said Saad, adding that Akhtar's children decided not to pursue the matter with British authorities. The family was unable to get a police complaint registered in PoK and feared that drawing attention to the case could put them at further risk, Saad added.&nbsp;The unrest has centred on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a civil society group that launched protests demanding reforms in PoK months before voting began in the region on July 27. Pakistan has declared JAAC a terrorist organisation and imposed a communications blackout in the region since June 5.Security forces have been accused of killing at least 30 people during last month's demonstrations. The Pakistani government has rejected the allegations.JAAC has accused Islamabad of trying to crush dissent and said scores of its supporters have been detained. The group has described the elections as a "sham", being held “at gunpoint.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pok-polls-pakistan-postpones-third-phase-voting-amid-ongoing-unrest-1786113957329">PoK polls: Pakistan postpones third phase voting amid ongoing unrest</a>&nbsp;There's another British man involved in crisis in PoK. He has been identified as Waqas Arif, a 38-year-old British national from Nottingham. Arif was detained in Mirpur, a city in PoK, following protests on June 5. His family insists that he was not involved in the demonstrations. "There is no charge. He hasn't done anything. This is my brother, but I think there are thousands of other brothers like him from everywhere who they have put in [prison] so they can minimise the protest power ... they have not even been taken to court," his sister said. Arif's wife, Varisha Kampulvi, said British officials had also been unable to speak directly to him since his detention at a prison in Mirpur.&nbsp;

Two British nationals with family ties to PoK have been affected by unrest in the region. Mohammad Akhtar was allegedly killed by a stray bullet during protests, while Waqas Arif has remained detained for over two months. The UK has raised concerns with Pakistan.

A British national was allegedly shot dead in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during clashes between security forces and protesters this week. The cases were reported by the Guardian as it highlight how the unrest in the PoK region has affected British nationals with family links to the area. The man has been identified by Mohammad Akhtar, a 50-year-old resident of Peterborough, who was in Kotli when violence broke out on June 9. His family said that he was not participating in the protests and was staying near the area where demonstrations were taking place. Also Read: Former Pakistan minister facing UK sexual assault case elected to PoK assembly According to his cousin Mohammad Saad who spoke to the Guardian, Pakistani security forces opened fire on a gathering of protesters demanding economic and electoral reforms. "He wasn't taking part in protests but the demonstrations were happening close to his house. There was firing by the forces that day and he was hit by a stray bullet. There was a bullet wound on the side of his chest," said Saad, adding that Akhtar's children decided not to pursue the matter with British authorities. The family was unable to get a police complaint registered in PoK and feared that drawing attention to the case could put them at further risk, Saad added. The unrest has centred on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a civil society group that launched protests demanding reforms in PoK months before voting began in the region on July 27. Pakistan has declared JAAC a terrorist organisation and imposed a communications blackout in the region since June 5. Security forces have been accused of killing at least 30 people during last month's demonstrations. The Pakistani government has rejected the allegations. JAAC has accused Islamabad of trying to crush dissent and said scores of its supporters have been detained. The group has described the elections as a "sham", being held “at gunpoint.” Also Read: PoK polls: Pakistan postpones third phase voting amid ongoing unrest There's another British man involved in crisis in PoK. He has been identified as Waqas Arif, a 38-year-old British national from Nottingham. Arif was detained in Mirpur, a city in PoK, following protests on June 5. His family insists that he was not involved in the demonstrations. "There is no charge. He hasn't done anything. This is my brother, but I think there are thousands of other brothers like him from everywhere who they have put in [prison] so they can minimise the protest power ... they have not even been taken to court," his sister said. Arif's wife, Varisha Kampulvi, said British officials had also been unable to speak directly to him since his detention at a prison in Mirpur.

Two British nationals with family ties to PoK have been affected by unrest in the region. Mohammad Akhtar was allegedly killed by a stray bullet during protests, while Waqas Arif has remained detained for over two months. The UK has raised concerns with Pakistan.

British national allegedly shot dead in PoK clashes, family says 'he was not part of protest'

A senior Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, Qari Saeed Abdul Aziz, was found dead under suspicious circumstances at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. As per reports, the LeT commander Qari Saeed had eaten at an ‘unfamiliar’ restaurant before heading to the Quba Mosque in Islamabad for prayers, but he suddenly collapsed at the mosque gate and died.&nbsp;The news of Qari Saeed’s sudden death comes days after a top Lashkar operative claimed that unknown men killed around 30 of its members within Pakistan.The exact cause of his death was not immediately known.&nbsp;The deceased Lashkar commander was in charge of a department in the group that assisted the families of the terrorists killed during encounters in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-rejects-board-of-peace-plan-for-gaza-disarmament-1786276611175">Netanyahu says Israel rejects Board of Peace plan for Gaza disarmament</a>&nbsp;<h2>Another killing by ‘unknown men’?</h2>&nbsp;Qari Saeed’s death comes days after a senior Lashkar operative claimed that “unknown men” had killed around 30 members of the banned terror outfit inside Pakistan.&nbsp;In a video that was shared widely on social media recently, Rizwan Hanif alleged that several members of the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group had been killed across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu &amp; Kashmir (PoK) over the past three to four years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-daniel-kinahan-the-suspected-cartel-boss-extradited-from-dubai-to-ireland-1786281059352">Who is Daniel Kinahan? The suspected cartel boss extradited from Dubai to Ireland</a>&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba was behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which Pakistani terrorists killed 166 innocent people, mostly civilians.&nbsp;Hanif claimed that more than 30 Lashkar terrorists had been killed by “unknown men" in Peshawar, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad.&nbsp;It was the first time that a terrorist linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba had made public admission that such killings had taken place. The United Nations had sanctioned the terrorist group in 2005 over its links to Al-Qaeda and the Taliban.

Senior Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, Qari Saeed Abdul Aziz, collapsed near the mosque’s gate and died. The news of Qari Saeed’s sudden death comes days after a top Lashkar operative claimed that unknown men killed around 30 of its members within Pakistan.

A senior Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, Qari Saeed Abdul Aziz, was found dead under suspicious circumstances at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. As per reports, the LeT commander Qari Saeed had eaten at an ‘unfamiliar’ restaurant before heading to the Quba Mosque in Islamabad for prayers, but he suddenly collapsed at the mosque gate and died. The news of Qari Saeed’s sudden death comes days after a top Lashkar operative claimed that unknown men killed around 30 of its members within Pakistan. The exact cause of his death was not immediately known. The deceased Lashkar commander was in charge of a department in the group that assisted the families of the terrorists killed during encounters in Jammu and Kashmir. Also Read: Netanyahu says Israel rejects Board of Peace plan for Gaza disarmament Another killing by ‘unknown men’? Qari Saeed’s death comes days after a senior Lashkar operative claimed that “unknown men” had killed around 30 members of the banned terror outfit inside Pakistan. In a video that was shared widely on social media recently, Rizwan Hanif alleged that several members of the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group had been killed across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoK) over the past three to four years. Also Read: Who is Daniel Kinahan? The suspected cartel boss extradited from Dubai to Ireland Lashkar-e-Taiba was behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which Pakistani terrorists killed 166 innocent people, mostly civilians. Hanif claimed that more than 30 Lashkar terrorists had been killed by “unknown men" in Peshawar, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad. It was the first time that a terrorist linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba had made public admission that such killings had taken place. The United Nations had sanctioned the terrorist group in 2005 over its links to Al-Qaeda and the Taliban.

Senior Lashkar-e-Taiba commander, Qari Saeed Abdul Aziz, collapsed near the mosque’s gate and died. The news of Qari Saeed’s sudden death comes days after a top Lashkar operative claimed that unknown men killed around 30 of its members within Pakistan.

Lashkar commander dies ‘mysteriously’ at Islamabad mosque entrance after eating at ‘unfamiliar’ eatery

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday (Aug 5) dismissed his previous speculation over the future of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and have now said that the prime minister would complete his full five-year constitutional term. Last week, Naqvi claimed that Pakistan’s system of governance has “collapsed” and is no longer capable of addressing its mounting political and economic challenges,. He also claimed to have unearthed what he calls the “biggest scam" in the country’s history. He suggested that multiple pillars of the state machinery, including judges and politicians, were part of it.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pakistan-blocks-al-jazeera-website-over-pojk-reportage-so-it-s-not-about-kafirs-is-it-1785828162848">Pakistan 'blocks' Al Jazeera website over PoJK reportage: So it's not about 'kafirs', is it?</a>&nbsp;<blockquote>“There is no question of the government going anywhere. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will complete his full five-year constitutional tenure,” Naqvi told reporters. The speculation around Sharif's future increased after Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the “countdown of the Shehbaz government has begun".</blockquote><h2>Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Naqvi</h2>Naqvi’s remarks were countered by defence minister Khawaja Asif. Asif said that Naqvi had been in a “very powerful post” for the past three years, but in several matters, he was not even answerable to the prime minister. “If someone with such authority and influence still raises complaints, then other cabinet members should go home,” Asif said. He also criticised Naqvi saying he hardly attends cabinet meetings and was present only two or three times. “Naqvi sahib, begin the change in the system with your ministry,” Asif said, adding, “As an example, bring about a revolution in the PCB. Cricket fans are not satisfied with PCB’s performance.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance</a><h2>Is Munir propping up Naqvi to send a broader message?</h2>Munir, who already enjoys unbridled power in Pakistan, is propping up Naqvi to send a broader message to Sharif. As challenges of Balochistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir mount for Munir, he could seek to further consolidate his hold by backing Naqvi for a bigger political role. Naqvi first made his intentions clear at the Pakistan Economic Summit last week where he said that the country’s governance system had collapsed. His remark was largely seen as a veiled swipe at PM Shehbaz Sharif. Naqvi also called for creating new administrative units or provinces to improve accountability and access to justice.&nbsp;His views were promptly backed by the military spokesperson, who said that an administrative reset was required not only for improving governance but also from a security standpoint.It has been argued over the years that Pakistan’s existing provinces are too large and centralised to govern effectively.But, Pakistan’s major political parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), resist any alteration for their own political reasons. PML-N and the PPP derive their electoral strength from Punjab and Sindh provinces, respectively. Thus, any change to provincial boundaries is likely to affect political control.

Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi dismissed rumours of the Shehbaz Sharif government’s collapse, insisting it will complete its five-year term. His governance remarks, Bilawal Bhutto’s criticism, and Khawaja Asif’s rebuttal have fuelled speculation over Pakistan’s political stability.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday (Aug 5) dismissed his previous speculation over the future of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and have now said that the prime minister would complete his full five-year constitutional term. Last week, Naqvi claimed that Pakistan’s system of governance has “collapsed” and is no longer capable of addressing its mounting political and economic challenges,. He also claimed to have unearthed what he calls the “biggest scam" in the country’s history. He suggested that multiple pillars of the state machinery, including judges and politicians, were part of it. Also Read: Pakistan 'blocks' Al Jazeera website over PoJK reportage: So it's not about 'kafirs', is it? “There is no question of the government going anywhere. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will complete his full five-year constitutional tenure,” Naqvi told reporters. The speculation around Sharif's future increased after Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the “countdown of the Shehbaz government has begun". Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Naqvi Naqvi’s remarks were countered by defence minister Khawaja Asif. Asif said that Naqvi had been in a “very powerful post” for the past three years, but in several matters, he was not even answerable to the prime minister. “If someone with such authority and influence still raises complaints, then other cabinet members should go home,” Asif said. He also criticised Naqvi saying he hardly attends cabinet meetings and was present only two or three times. “Naqvi sahib, begin the change in the system with your ministry,” Asif said, adding, “As an example, bring about a revolution in the PCB. Cricket fans are not satisfied with PCB’s performance.” Also Read: ‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance Is Munir propping up Naqvi to send a broader message? Munir, who already enjoys unbridled power in Pakistan, is propping up Naqvi to send a broader message to Sharif. As challenges of Balochistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir mount for Munir, he could seek to further consolidate his hold by backing Naqvi for a bigger political role. Naqvi first made his intentions clear at the Pakistan Economic Summit last week where he said that the country’s governance system had collapsed. His remark was largely seen as a veiled swipe at PM Shehbaz Sharif. Naqvi also called for creating new administrative units or provinces to improve accountability and access to justice. His views were promptly backed by the military spokesperson, who said that an administrative reset was required not only for improving governance but also from a security standpoint.It has been argued over the years that Pakistan’s existing provinces are too large and centralised to govern effectively. But, Pakistan’s major political parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), resist any alteration for their own political reasons. PML-N and the PPP derive their electoral strength from Punjab and Sindh provinces, respectively. Thus, any change to provincial boundaries is likely to affect political control.

Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi dismissed rumours of the Shehbaz Sharif government’s collapse, insisting it will complete its five-year term. His governance remarks, Bilawal Bhutto’s criticism, and Khawaja Asif’s rebuttal have fuelled speculation over Pakistan’s political stability.

'Not going anywhere': Pakistan's Mohsin Naqvi backtracks after 'system collapse' remarks

Former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has revealed that Pakistan had called on the morning of May 10 last year and requested a ceasefire during Operation Sindoor, but India deliberately delayed its response as it had “not even executed half” of their planned strikes.&nbsp;As India was determined to achieve its military objectives with additional waves of strikes already plannedPakistan contacted India through the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) hotline in the morning, but New Delhi deliberately kept Islamabad waiting till the afternoon, Gen Chauhan said, while speaking at a media event.&nbsp;<h2>‘We had not even executed half of our plans’</h2>&nbsp;“The biggest surprise to me was on 10 May, when Pakistan picked up the phone and said they wanted to talk. This was because, on 9 May, the kind of rhetoric emerging from their side was that they would sort India out in 48 hours. Within about eight hours, they picked up the phone. We had not even executed half of our plans,” General Chauhan recalled.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-draws-up-new-nuclear-strategy-in-the-event-of-war-with-russia-and-china-1785952387235">Pentagon draws up new nuclear strategy in the event of war with Russia and China</a>&nbsp;The former CDS said India was determined to achieve its military objectives before considering a ceasefire, with additional waves of strikes already planned to demonstrate that no military installation inside Pakistan was beyond reach for the Indian Armed Forces.&nbsp;He said Indian operations were still in progress when Pakistan initiated contact through the DGMO hotline.“I think the reason why they picked up the phone around 9 or 9.30 on the morning of 10 May was because of the air power,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>IAF strikes on key airbases severely disrupted Pakistan Air Force operations</h2>&nbsp;General Chauhan said the IAF struck key Pakistani airbases, including Sargodha and Noor Khan, in the early hours of 10 May, severely disrupting Pakistan Air Force operations.“A couple of these airfields were hit around midnight, 4 or 5 in the morning,” he added, noting that with airstrips gone, they could no longer generate sorties.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-deal-with-oman-being-finalised-iran-s-foreign-ministry-1785945741501">Strait of Hormuz deal with Oman being ‘finalised’: Iran’s foreign ministry</a>&nbsp;Pakistan realised that its ability to sustain air operations was rapidly diminishing, said the former CDS, adding that the Pakistani military planners believed that the attacks they had launched between 1 am and about 9 am had inflicted significant damage on India.“They thought they would have done enough damage, and now it was better to talk. Otherwise, it would go beyond that,” General Chauhan said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-army-discards-whatsapp-over-spying-and-data-breach-fears-switches-to-china-s-wechat-1785933108236">Pakistan Army discards WhatsApp over spying and data breach fears, switches to China’s WeChat</a>&nbsp;Operation Sindoor was launched as India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 last year, when at least 26 civilians, of which 25 were Indian, were gunned down by Pakistan-linked terrorists after segregating them on religious lines.&nbsp;Indian security forces later gunned down the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack.&nbsp;During the tri-forces operation, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force carried out strikes on nine terror camps across the border. The military operation led to a four-day standoff between India and Pakistan, triggering blackouts and air raid sirens along the LoC and International Border.

India was determined to achieve its military objectives before considering a ceasefire, with additional waves of strikes already planned to demonstrate that no military installation inside Pakistan was beyond reach for the Indian Armed Forces, former CDS General Anil Chauhan said.

Former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has revealed that Pakistan had called on the morning of May 10 last year and requested a ceasefire during Operation Sindoor, but India deliberately delayed its response as it had “not even executed half” of their planned strikes. As India was determined to achieve its military objectives with additional waves of strikes already planned Pakistan contacted India through the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) hotline in the morning, but New Delhi deliberately kept Islamabad waiting till the afternoon, Gen Chauhan said, while speaking at a media event. ‘We had not even executed half of our plans’ “The biggest surprise to me was on 10 May, when Pakistan picked up the phone and said they wanted to talk. This was because, on 9 May, the kind of rhetoric emerging from their side was that they would sort India out in 48 hours. Within about eight hours, they picked up the phone. We had not even executed half of our plans,” General Chauhan recalled. Also Read: Pentagon draws up new nuclear strategy in the event of war with Russia and China The former CDS said India was determined to achieve its military objectives before considering a ceasefire, with additional waves of strikes already planned to demonstrate that no military installation inside Pakistan was beyond reach for the Indian Armed Forces. He said Indian operations were still in progress when Pakistan initiated contact through the DGMO hotline. “I think the reason why they picked up the phone around 9 or 9.30 on the morning of 10 May was because of the air power,” he said. IAF strikes on key airbases severely disrupted Pakistan Air Force operations General Chauhan said the IAF struck key Pakistani airbases, including Sargodha and Noor Khan, in the early hours of 10 May, severely disrupting Pakistan Air Force operations. “A couple of these airfields were hit around midnight, 4 or 5 in the morning,” he added, noting that with airstrips gone, they could no longer generate sorties. Also Read: Strait of Hormuz deal with Oman being ‘finalised’: Iran’s foreign ministry Pakistan realised that its ability to sustain air operations was rapidly diminishing, said the former CDS, adding that the Pakistani military planners believed that the attacks they had launched between 1 am and about 9 am had inflicted significant damage on India. “They thought they would have done enough damage, and now it was better to talk. Otherwise, it would go beyond that,” General Chauhan said. Also Read: Pakistan Army discards WhatsApp over spying and data breach fears, switches to China’s WeChat Operation Sindoor was launched as India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 last year, when at least 26 civilians, of which 25 were Indian, were gunned down by Pakistan-linked terrorists after segregating them on religious lines. Indian security forces later gunned down the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack. During the tri-forces operation, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force carried out strikes on nine terror camps across the border. The military operation led to a four-day standoff between India and Pakistan, triggering blackouts and air raid sirens along the LoC and International Border.

India was determined to achieve its military objectives before considering a ceasefire, with additional waves of strikes already planned to demonstrate that no military installation inside Pakistan was beyond reach for the Indian Armed Forces, former CDS General Anil Chauhan said.

‘Pakistan called for ceasefire, we kept them waiting’: Ex-CDS Anil Chauhan recalls Operation Sindoor

The Pakistan Army has directed its officers and personnel to stop using US-based Meta-owned WhatsApp for all official and operational communications, citing fears of electronic surveillance, interception, and data breaches, and told them to switch to Chinese messaging platform WeChat.&nbsp;Pakistan’s military leadership issued the directive following internal assessments that Meta’s messaging platform exposes sensitive defence conversations to elevated risks of electronic surveillance, interception, and data breaches.&nbsp;The decision reflects growing concerns in Pakistan’s military over the security of communications carried over Western technology platforms. It is notable that Meta is based in the US, with which Islamabad had been displaying a lot of bonhomie in President Donald Trump’s second term.&nbsp;&nbsp;The move also brings Pakistan’s military digital infrastructure closer to that of China. It comes amid deepening strategic and defence ties between Pakistan and China, with growing cooperation not only in military hardware but also in digital infrastructure, cyber capabilities, communications and intelligence sharing.&nbsp;Interestingly, WeChat was banned and blocked by the India government in June 2020, citing concerns over national security, data privacy and sovereignty.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munir-protege-mohsin-naqvi-s-claim-of-unearthing-huge-scam-triggers-tremors-in-pakistan-s-power-corridors-1785869067161">Munir-protege Mohsin Naqvi’s claim of unearthing huge scam triggers tremors in Pakistan’s power corridors</a>&nbsp;Pakistan’s move exhibits its growing dependence on China and the WeChat shift aligns with the deepening defence relationship between Beijing and Islamabad.&nbsp;Pakistan’s decision of adopting WeChat is aimed at having a shared communication medium with China for streamlining operational coordination during bilateral exercises, border dialogues, and tactical military exchanges.&nbsp;<h2>Why did India ban WeChat?</h2>&nbsp;New Delhi banned WeChat along with along with 59 other Chinese apps in June 2020, citing national security concerns and alleging that user data was being transmitted outside the country.&nbsp;While India excluded WeChat over espionage risks, Islamabad is making the same Chinese app its primary medium for internal military communications.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-pakistan-ex-us-general-says-pak-qatar-compromised-mediators-1785852825375">Did Trump snub Pakistan? Ex-US General says Pak and Qatar ‘compromised’ mediators</a>&nbsp;The cooperation between the Pakistan Armed Forces and China’s People’s Liberation Army has grown exponentially in recent years.&nbsp;Pakistan’s relationship with China earlier centred on defence acquisitions, including fighter jets, naval frigates and air defence systems.The decision of moving its military communications from WhatsApp to WeChat shows Pakistan’s increasing reliance on Beijing and expanding defence cooperation more closely with its strategic partner.

Pakistan military’s decision reflects growing concerns over the security of communications carried over Western technology platforms. It is notable that Meta is based in the US, with which Islamabad had been displaying a lot of bonhomie in President Donald Trump’s second term. 

The Pakistan Army has directed its officers and personnel to stop using US-based Meta-owned WhatsApp for all official and operational communications, citing fears of electronic surveillance, interception, and data breaches, and told them to switch to Chinese messaging platform WeChat. Pakistan’s military leadership issued the directive following internal assessments that Meta’s messaging platform exposes sensitive defence conversations to elevated risks of electronic surveillance, interception, and data breaches. The decision reflects growing concerns in Pakistan’s military over the security of communications carried over Western technology platforms. It is notable that Meta is based in the US, with which Islamabad had been displaying a lot of bonhomie in President Donald Trump’s second term. The move also brings Pakistan’s military digital infrastructure closer to that of China. It comes amid deepening strategic and defence ties between Pakistan and China, with growing cooperation not only in military hardware but also in digital infrastructure, cyber capabilities, communications and intelligence sharing. Interestingly, WeChat was banned and blocked by the India government in June 2020, citing concerns over national security, data privacy and sovereignty. Also Read: Munir-protege Mohsin Naqvi’s claim of unearthing huge scam triggers tremors in Pakistan’s power corridors Pakistan’s move exhibits its growing dependence on China and the WeChat shift aligns with the deepening defence relationship between Beijing and Islamabad. Pakistan’s decision of adopting WeChat is aimed at having a shared communication medium with China for streamlining operational coordination during bilateral exercises, border dialogues, and tactical military exchanges. Why did India ban WeChat? New Delhi banned WeChat along with along with 59 other Chinese apps in June 2020, citing national security concerns and alleging that user data was being transmitted outside the country. While India excluded WeChat over espionage risks, Islamabad is making the same Chinese app its primary medium for internal military communications. Also Read: Did Trump snub Pakistan? Ex-US General says Pak and Qatar ‘compromised’ mediators The cooperation between the Pakistan Armed Forces and China’s People’s Liberation Army has grown exponentially in recent years. Pakistan’s relationship with China earlier centred on defence acquisitions, including fighter jets, naval frigates and air defence systems. The decision of moving its military communications from WhatsApp to WeChat shows Pakistan’s increasing reliance on Beijing and expanding defence cooperation more closely with its strategic partner.

Pakistan military’s decision reflects growing concerns over the security of communications carried over Western technology platforms. It is notable that Meta is based in the US, with which Islamabad had been displaying a lot of bonhomie in President Donald Trump’s second term.&nbsp;

Pakistan Army discards WhatsApp over spying and data breach fears, switches to China’s WeChat

Days after making a shocking assertion that the governance system in Pakistan has “collapsed”, the country’s interior minister, Mohsin Naqvi, who is a blue-eyed boy of army chief Asim Munir, has dropped another bombshell. Naqvi claims to have unearthed the “biggest scam” in Pakistan’s history and said judges, politicians, and officials were all part of it.&nbsp;While Naqvi did not disclose any names involved in the scam, his back-to-back sensational remarks have triggered speculation about whether a major power shake-up is coming up in Pakistan.&nbsp;Naqvi, known to be close to Munir, strongly underlined that action would be taken against “every person” responsible.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-snub-pakistan-ex-us-general-says-pak-qatar-compromised-mediators-1785852825375">Did Trump snub Pakistan? Ex-US General says Pak and Qatar ‘compromised’ mediators</a>&nbsp;“I don’t think there has ever been such a massive scam in the history of Pakistan, where judges, bureaucrats, politicians and bankers were all involved,” Naqvi told reporters.&nbsp;“For 21 years, bribes were paid, and people kept taking it. We will go after each and every person responsible,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 After declaring Pakistan’s system “completely collapsed”, Mohsin Naqvi drops another bombshell. “I don’t think there has ever been such a massive scam in the history of Pakistan, where judges, bureaucrats, politicians and bankers were all involved. For 21 years, money was… <a href="https://t.co/FCIUWiiORM">pic.twitter.com/FCIUWiiORM</a>&mdash; OsintTV 📺 (@OsintTV) <a href="https://x.com/OsintTV/status/2084287863366037709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Analysts say that Naqvi, who also heads the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), did not mention the military, indicating that his remark was directed at the civilian machinery.&nbsp;Naqvi has always enjoyed the backing of Asim Munir and is believed to be a close relative of the army chief, which was the likely reason why Munir picked him as his special representative for mediation between the US and Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-crackdown-on-digital-arrest-scams-setting-up-of-panel-1785857834849">Supreme Court orders crackdown on digital arrest scams, setting up of panel</a>&nbsp;<h2>Is Munir propping up Naqvi to send a broader message?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Munir, who already enjoys unbridled power in Pakistan, is propping up Naqvi to send a broader message to Sharif.&nbsp;As challenges of Balochistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir mount for Munir, he could seek to further consolidate his hold by backing Naqvi for a bigger political role.&nbsp;Naqvi first made his intentions clear at the Pakistan Economic Summit last week where he said that the country’s governance system had collapsed. His remark was largely seen as a veiled swipe at PM Shehbaz Sharif.Naqvi also called for creating new administrative units or provinces to improve accountability and access to justice.&nbsp;His views were promptly backed by the military spokesperson, who said that an administrative reset was required not only for improving governance but also from a security standpoint.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arrogance-leads-to-destruction-mk-stalin-slams-cm-vijay-over-son-udhayanidhi-s-arrest-1785846477229">‘Arrogance leads to destruction’: MK Stalin slams CM Vijay over son Udhayanidhi’s arrest</a>&nbsp;It has been argued over the years that Pakistan’s existing provinces are too large and centralised to govern effectively.But, Pakistan’s major political parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), resist any alteration for their own political reasons.PML-N and the PPP derive their electoral strength from Punjab and Sindh provinces, respectively. Thus, any change to provincial boundaries is likely to affect political control.&nbsp;<h2>Defence minister Khawaja Asif shows mirror to Naqvi</h2>&nbsp;Naqvi’s remarks were countered by defence minister Khawaja Asif. Asif said that Naqvi had been in a “very powerful post” for the past three years, but in several matters, he was not even answerable to the prime minister.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-moves-supreme-court-against-karnataka-for-failing-to-release-cauvery-water-1785767442231">Tamil Nadu moves Supreme Court against Karnataka for failing to release Cauvery water</a>&nbsp;“If someone with such authority and influence still raises complaints, then other cabinet members should go home,” Asif said.&nbsp;He also criticised Naqvi saying he hardly attends cabinet meetings and was present only two or three times.&nbsp;“Naqvi sahib, begin the change in the system with your ministry,” Asif said, adding, “As an example, bring about a revolution in the PCB. Cricket fans are not satisfied with PCB’s performance.”&nbsp;The exchange turned out to be a rare display of division at the top of Pakistan’s power structure.As Naqvi is promising action against powerful figures, including judges and politicians alike, a power shake-up seems to be looming in Pakistan.

Pakistan's interior minister, Mohsin Naqvi, who is a blue-eyed boy of army chief Asim Munir, did not disclose any names involved in the scam, his back-to-back sensational remarks have triggered speculation about whether a major power shake-up is coming up in Pakistan.

Days after making a shocking assertion that the governance system in Pakistan has “collapsed”, the country’s interior minister, Mohsin Naqvi, who is a blue-eyed boy of army chief Asim Munir, has dropped another bombshell. Naqvi claims to have unearthed the “biggest scam” in Pakistan’s history and said judges, politicians, and officials were all part of it. While Naqvi did not disclose any names involved in the scam, his back-to-back sensational remarks have triggered speculation about whether a major power shake-up is coming up in Pakistan. Naqvi, known to be close to Munir, strongly underlined that action would be taken against “every person” responsible. Also Read: Did Trump snub Pakistan? Ex-US General says Pak and Qatar ‘compromised’ mediators “I don’t think there has ever been such a massive scam in the history of Pakistan, where judges, bureaucrats, politicians and bankers were all involved,” Naqvi told reporters. “For 21 years, bribes were paid, and people kept taking it. We will go after each and every person responsible,” he added.

Pakistan's interior minister, Mohsin Naqvi, who is a blue-eyed boy of army chief Asim Munir, did not disclose any names involved in the scam, his back-to-back sensational remarks have triggered speculation about whether a major power shake-up is coming up in Pakistan.

Munir-protege Mohsin Naqvi’s claim of unearthing huge scam triggers tremors in Pakistan’s power corridors

US President Donald Trump seemed to have snubbed Pakistan, as he notably left it out while naming countries facilitating the US-Iran talks, unlike previously when he used to laud Pakistani leadership and its role in brokering ceasefire. Trump paused the plans for a major strike on Iran to pursue diplomacy.&nbsp;“We’re talking at the request of Iran, backed by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar,” Trump said without naming Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moreover, there was more embarrassment in store for Islamabad as retired US General Jack Keane accused Pakistan and Qatar of being “compromised” as mediators and favouring Iran “at the expense of the US.”&nbsp;Keane criticised Pakistan and Qatar and described them as “compromised” intermediaries that favour Iran over the United States.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-signs-deal-to-boost-production-of-patriot-thaad-missile-interceptor-systems-1785769944181">US signs deal to boost production of Patriot, THAAD missile interceptor systems</a>&nbsp;Keane, who supports Trump and serves as chairman of the Institute for the Study of War, told Fox News that relying on the two countries for diplomacy has weakened Washington’s position in negotiations with Iran.&nbsp;“It is well known in the Middle East region by our intelligence services, by all the players, that the Pakistanis and the Qataris are compromised because they favour Iran at the expense of the United States,” Keane said.&nbsp;“This is historical; this is not new. And yet they’re the mediators.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Gen. Jack Keane just dropped a truth bomb this morning on FOX: Our intelligence services know the Pakistani and Qatari mediators “are compromised because they favor Iran at the expense of the United States.” They have misled the Trump administration about Tehran’s real… <a href="https://t.co/fGuDOo7V4n">pic.twitter.com/fGuDOo7V4n</a>&mdash; Gerald Posner (@geraldposner) <a href="https://x.com/geraldposner/status/2084315447722201225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Keane’s comments come after US President Donald Trump decided to pursue diplomatic engagement with Iran instead of launching a planned “massive” military strike.&nbsp;Keane questioned whether Pakistan and Qatar, involved in facilitating communication between Tehran and Washington in a bid to prevent a broader regional conflict, could act as impartial mediators since they have close ties with Iran.He added that using such intermediaries risks giving Washington an inaccurate picture of Iran’s intentions and weakens US leverage during negotiations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-on-right-now-trump-says-he-wants-to-give-iran-every-last-chance-before-decapitation-1785783992389">‘Talks on right now’: Trump says he wants to give Iran ‘every last chance before decapitation’</a><h2>Ex-general also criticises Saudi Arabia</h2>&nbsp;Keane also criticised Saudi Arabia, claiming the kingdom encouraged the US to continue negotiations with Iran instead of taking military action.&nbsp;He claimed Saudi Arabia denied the US access to its airbases and airspace for potential US strikes during discussions over possible operations and instead encouraged diplomatic negotiations.&nbsp;He said Riyadh chose to protect its own territory and energy infrastructure while depending on the US and Israel for regional security.“The Saudis are not willing to sacrifice to rid the Middle East region of Iran’s aggression,” Keane said, calling the approach “shameful” given the longstanding security relationship between Washington and Riyadh.&nbsp;“They’re willing for us to make that sacrifice, for sure. They’re willing for Israel to make that sacrifice, for sure,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-oil-firms-made-too-much-money-off-high-prices-during-iran-conflict-1785788623578">Trump says US oil firms made ‘too much money’ off high prices during Iran conflict</a>&nbsp;The retired general’s comments assume significance as a debate is on within US policy and defence circles over the best approach to dealing with Iran, with some favouring diplomacy and others suggesting stronger military action.&nbsp;Trump on Monday described his latest offer of talks as Iran’s “last chance” after shelving what he called a major attack on the country.“I want to give them every last chance before decapitation,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.

Retired US General Jack Keane accused Pakistan and Qatar of being “compromised” as mediators and favouring Iran at the expense of the US. Use of such intermediaries risks giving an inaccurate picture of Iran’s intentions and weakens US leverage during negotiations, he added.

US President Donald Trump seemed to have snubbed Pakistan, as he notably left it out while naming countries facilitating the US-Iran talks, unlike previously when he used to laud Pakistani leadership and its role in brokering ceasefire. Trump paused the plans for a major strike on Iran to pursue diplomacy. “We’re talking at the request of Iran, backed by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar,” Trump said without naming Pakistan. Moreover, there was more embarrassment in store for Islamabad as retired US General Jack Keane accused Pakistan and Qatar of being “compromised” as mediators and favouring Iran “at the expense of the US.” Keane criticised Pakistan and Qatar and described them as “compromised” intermediaries that favour Iran over the United States. Also Read: US signs deal to boost production of Patriot, THAAD missile interceptor systems Keane, who supports Trump and serves as chairman of the Institute for the Study of War, told Fox News that relying on the two countries for diplomacy has weakened Washington’s position in negotiations with Iran. “It is well known in the Middle East region by our intelligence services, by all the players, that the Pakistanis and the Qataris are compromised because they favour Iran at the expense of the United States,” Keane said. “This is historical; this is not new. And yet they’re the mediators.”

Retired US General Jack Keane accused Pakistan and Qatar of being “compromised” as mediators and favouring Iran at the expense of the US. Use of such intermediaries risks giving an inaccurate picture of Iran’s intentions and weakens US leverage during negotiations, he added.

Did Trump snub Pakistan? Ex-US General says Pak and Qatar ‘compromised’ mediators

Rattled by the India-Afghanistan ties, Pakistan Army’s Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry invoked Quranic verses and said that “Muslims should not befriend kaafirs.” He reportedly made the remarks during an official press conference in Rawalpindi when he was asked to respond over Afghan Taliban minister's views on India-Afghanistan ties. The Afghan minister, during a visit to India, had remarked that Afghanistan and India “share the same DNA." Chaudhry also said that relationship between the Taliban regime of Afghanistan and India's ruling establishment as that of “master and slave.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-7-killed-in-suicide-attack-in-pakistan-during-peace-rally-1785685185930">At least 14 killed in suicide attack in Pakistan during peace rally</a><h2>What Pak Army DG said?</h2>Responding to the statement, Chaudhry chose to being in a Quranic verse stating: “Allah Almighty has made it very clear — do not take the disbelievers (kafirs) as your friends/protectors. If you do so, then you are no longer among the Muslims." The video of his statement went viral on social media. The remarks came as Chaudhry was addressing the media on Pakistan's counter-terrorism operations, the security situation in Balochistan, ties with Afghanistan. In the same presser, the Pak Army general was asked about about the relations between India's ruling BJP and its parent body RSS, and the Taliban regime that claims to represent Islamic best practices of governance. A angry Chaudhry responded: “Does this Taliban regime have any conduct that reflects Islamic values? What they do to women, what they do to children, issuing fatwas while sitting comfortably and declaring the bloodshed of any Muslim permissible — what connection does this have with Islam? It has no connection with Islam whatsoever."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy</a> He also chose to differentiate between Afghan people and Taliban saying: “I am not talking about the Afghan people; I am talking about the Afghan Taliban regime. We have to be very careful in understanding whose DNA is actually the same. The DNA is not the same as that of the ordinary Afghan people. The common Afghan people are being crushed under the oppression of this Taliban regime. Their DNA is not the same as theirs.”<h2>What was Afghan minister's remark?</h2>The Afghanistan's Taliban regime's minister of agriculture Mawlawi (or Maulvi) Ataullah Omari, who had visited India around a month ago had said in an event in New Delhi, “From the very first day I landed in India, I received a warm welcome from the Indian government, the Minister of External Affairs, and everyone I met. It feels as if I am among my own people. It feels like our own country. Our DNA is one."&nbsp;

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Pakistan Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry sparked controversy over his remarks on India-Afghanistan ties, citing a Quranic verse on Muslims and non-believers. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also accused India of a proxy war, allegations New Delhi has rejected.

Rattled by the India-Afghanistan ties, Pakistan Army’s Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry invoked Quranic verses and said that “Muslims should not befriend kaafirs.” He reportedly made the remarks during an official press conference in Rawalpindi when he was asked to respond over Afghan Taliban minister's views on India-Afghanistan ties. The Afghan minister, during a visit to India, had remarked that Afghanistan and India “share the same DNA." Chaudhry also said that relationship between the Taliban regime of Afghanistan and India's ruling establishment as that of “master and slave.” Also Read: At least 14 killed in suicide attack in Pakistan during peace rally What Pak Army DG said? Responding to the statement, Chaudhry chose to being in a Quranic verse stating: “Allah Almighty has made it very clear — do not take the disbelievers (kafirs) as your friends/protectors. If you do so, then you are no longer among the Muslims." The video of his statement went viral on social media. The remarks came as Chaudhry was addressing the media on Pakistan's counter-terrorism operations, the security situation in Balochistan, ties with Afghanistan. In the same presser, the Pak Army general was asked about about the relations between India's ruling BJP and its parent body RSS, and the Taliban regime that claims to represent Islamic best practices of governance. A angry Chaudhry responded: “Does this Taliban regime have any conduct that reflects Islamic values? What they do to women, what they do to children, issuing fatwas while sitting comfortably and declaring the bloodshed of any Muslim permissible — what connection does this have with Islam? It has no connection with Islam whatsoever." Also Read: ‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy He also chose to differentiate between Afghan people and Taliban saying: “I am not talking about the Afghan people; I am talking about the Afghan Taliban regime. We have to be very careful in understanding whose DNA is actually the same. The DNA is not the same as that of the ordinary Afghan people. The common Afghan people are being crushed under the oppression of this Taliban regime. Their DNA is not the same as theirs.” What was Afghan minister's remark? The Afghanistan's Taliban regime's minister of agriculture Mawlawi (or Maulvi) Ataullah Omari, who had visited India around a month ago had said in an event in New Delhi, “From the very first day I landed in India, I received a warm welcome from the Indian government, the Minister of External Affairs, and everyone I met. It feels as if I am among my own people. It feels like our own country. Our DNA is one."

Pakistan Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry sparked controversy over his remarks on India-Afghanistan ties, citing a Quranic verse on Muslims and non-believers. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also accused India of a proxy war, allegations New Delhi has rejected.

'Muslims should not befriend kaafirs': Pak Army DG says India-Afghan ties that of 'master-slave'

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, has strongly defended the decision of putting the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, saying that Pakistan eroded India’s faith bit by bit and ‘destroyed’ the spirit of the agreement long before India took the step.&nbsp;In an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, Kwatra wrote that the treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan continuously kept dismantling those principles through its actions.&nbsp;<h2>‘IWT abeyance merely acknowledges what Pak already destroyed’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;“Pakistan spent half a century dismantling that goodwill and friendship. The abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistan’s conduct had already destroyed,” Kwatra said.&nbsp;The ambassador’s remarks came weeks after Pakistan reportedly organised a conference in Islamabad to protest India’s decision to suspend the treaty.Referring to the event, Kwatra wrote, “At that gathering, a former foreign minister threatened war against India if Pakistan’s demands on the Indus River system go unmet.”He pointed out that threatening war against India has become a standard tactic of Islamabad to attention distract from its internal problems.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2026-lovlina-borgohain-flags-missing-northeast-india-map-glasgow-restaurant-1785674559145">CWG 2026: Lovlina Borgohain flags missing Northeast on India map at Glasgow eatery</a><h2>‘New Delhi honoured the treaty for decades despite imbalance’</h2>&nbsp;The envoy recalled that the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty divided the six rivers of the Indus basin between the two countries, giving India control over the three eastern rivers and Pakistan control over the three western rivers.He said though the arrangement gave Pakistan access to nearly 80 per cent of the basin’s waters and limited India’s share to just 20 per cent, New Delhi still honoured the agreement for decades despite the imbalance.Kwatra further highlighted that Pakistan repeatedly blocked India’s attempts to modernise or renegotiate the treaty to reflect technological changes and allow greater hydropower development.“Bit by bit, Pakistan eroded India’s faith that it could exercise its rights under the treaty, or hope for a better one suited to today’s realities,” he wrote.&nbsp;Moreover, repeated attacks on Indian project sites, including the 2012 terrorist attack on the Tulbul Navigation Project, prevented India from exercising its rights under the treaty, he added.&nbsp;The ambassador recalled Pakistan’s persistent hostility as it launched wars against India in 1965, 1971 and in 1999; and promoted cross-border terrorism leading to an attack on India’s Parliament in 2001, Mumbai terror carnage in 2008, Uri and Pathankot attacks in 2016, the Pulwama attack in 2019 and the Pahalgam attack in 2025.&nbsp;“Over 40,000 civilians in India have been killed in India due to Pakistan’s persistent terror campaign,” he asserted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche</a><h2>‘Pak’s water shortages result of its poor management’</h2>&nbsp;Replying to recurrent calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan, Kwatra said past experience showed such engagement had failed to produce results.“Those advocating talks between India and Pakistan have not taken note of the history of these talks in the past or they must believe that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is not insanity.”&nbsp;“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly voiced India’s stand today, ‘Terror and talks cannot go together... Terror and trade cannot go together…. Water and blood cannot flow together.’,” he said.&nbsp;The ambassador also rejected Islamabad’s allegations that India was acting as a “water aggressor” and said Pakistan’s water shortages are a result of its poor domestic management and not India’s actions.&nbsp;“Only around 40 per cent of the water Pakistan receives reaches its farms, while more than 30 per cent is lost in transit and the remainder flows unused into the sea,” he specified.&nbsp;New Delhi decided to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance a day after the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which Pakistan-origin terrorists killed 26 civilians, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese citizen. The attack was linked to the designated terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba.The terrorists were later killed by Indian security forces in an operation.

India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra writes in an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, that the Indus Waters Treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan kept dismantling those principles through its actions.

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, has strongly defended the decision of putting the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, saying that Pakistan eroded India’s faith bit by bit and ‘destroyed’ the spirit of the agreement long before India took the step. In an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, Kwatra wrote that the treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan continuously kept dismantling those principles through its actions. ‘IWT abeyance merely acknowledges what Pak already destroyed’ “Pakistan spent half a century dismantling that goodwill and friendship. The abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistan’s conduct had already destroyed,” Kwatra said. The ambassador’s remarks came weeks after Pakistan reportedly organised a conference in Islamabad to protest India’s decision to suspend the treaty. Referring to the event, Kwatra wrote, “At that gathering, a former foreign minister threatened war against India if Pakistan’s demands on the Indus River system go unmet.” He pointed out that threatening war against India has become a standard tactic of Islamabad to attention distract from its internal problems. Also Read: CWG 2026: Lovlina Borgohain flags missing Northeast on India map at Glasgow eatery ‘New Delhi honoured the treaty for decades despite imbalance’ The envoy recalled that the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty divided the six rivers of the Indus basin between the two countries, giving India control over the three eastern rivers and Pakistan control over the three western rivers. He said though the arrangement gave Pakistan access to nearly 80 per cent of the basin’s waters and limited India’s share to just 20 per cent, New Delhi still honoured the agreement for decades despite the imbalance. Kwatra further highlighted that Pakistan repeatedly blocked India’s attempts to modernise or renegotiate the treaty to reflect technological changes and allow greater hydropower development. “Bit by bit, Pakistan eroded India’s faith that it could exercise its rights under the treaty, or hope for a better one suited to today’s realities,” he wrote. Moreover, repeated attacks on Indian project sites, including the 2012 terrorist attack on the Tulbul Navigation Project, prevented India from exercising its rights under the treaty, he added. The ambassador recalled Pakistan’s persistent hostility as it launched wars against India in 1965, 1971 and in 1999; and promoted cross-border terrorism leading to an attack on India’s Parliament in 2001, Mumbai terror carnage in 2008, Uri and Pathankot attacks in 2016, the Pulwama attack in 2019 and the Pahalgam attack in 2025. “Over 40,000 civilians in India have been killed in India due to Pakistan’s persistent terror campaign,” he asserted. Also Read: Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche ‘Pak’s water shortages result of its poor management’ Replying to recurrent calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan, Kwatra said past experience showed such engagement had failed to produce results. “Those advocating talks between India and Pakistan have not taken note of the history of these talks in the past or they must believe that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is not insanity.” “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly voiced India’s stand today, ‘Terror and talks cannot go together... Terror and trade cannot go together…. Water and blood cannot flow together.’,” he said. The ambassador also rejected Islamabad’s allegations that India was acting as a “water aggressor” and said Pakistan’s water shortages are a result of its poor domestic management and not India’s actions. “Only around 40 per cent of the water Pakistan receives reaches its farms, while more than 30 per cent is lost in transit and the remainder flows unused into the sea,” he specified. New Delhi decided to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance a day after the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which Pakistan-origin terrorists killed 26 civilians, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese citizen. The attack was linked to the designated terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. The terrorists were later killed by Indian security forces in an operation.

India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra writes in an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, that the Indus Waters Treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan kept dismantling those principles through its actions.

‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance

The first phase of elections to the so-called legislative assembly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) turned violent on Monday (Jul 27), with at least 19 people killed, several others injured and rival political parties accusing each other of poll rigging amid continuing anti-government protests. The elections, originally scheduled for July 27, are being held in three phases until August 10.India does not recognise the elections held in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and has consistently maintained that Pakistan is in illegal occupation of the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The Ministry of External Affairs has consistently opposed such polls, reiterating that the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan, are integral and inalienable parts of India. New Delhi has described the unrest in PoK as a direct consequence of Islamabad's "systemic exploitation and administrative oppression" in territories under its "forcible occupation".<h2>Protesters allege indiscriminate firing</h2>The election-day violence coincided with continuing demonstrations led by the JAAC, whose supporters accused Pakistani security forces of opening fire on protesters in Rawalakot. The demonstrations intensified after talks between the JAAC and the authorities collapsed, prompting thousands of protesters to begin a march towards Muzaffarabad.In a post on X, the Awami Action Committee has disclosed the names of the 19 people killed in the firing.

<h2>PPP worker killed in firing</h2>The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) said one of its workers, Mukhtar Yunus, was killed while two others were injured in firing allegedly carried out by supporters of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). "Our party worker, Mukhtar Yunus, was killed and two others injured during incidents of firing by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidates," the PPP said in a statement.PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari questioned the role of election authorities, asking, "Where are the relevant authorities? What is the Election Commission doing?"Both the PPP and the PML-N accused each other of electoral malpractice in multiple constituencies, while polling was briefly disrupted at several stations following clashes between rival supporters.The so-called assembly has 53 seats, including 45 directly elected seats and eight reserved seats for women, technocrats and clerics.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On expected lines, day of violence in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) <a href="https://t.co/X6mZ0jJTNE">https://t.co/X6mZ0jJTNE</a> <a href="https://t.co/48FrUnL4NU">pic.twitter.com/48FrUnL4NU</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://x.com/sidhant/status/2081777314732642705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">19 شہداۓ راولاکوٹ لانگ مارچ 27 جولائی 2026 بروز سوموار 1) نعیم بٹ ، کوٹلی آزاد جموں کشمیر 2) عثمان نذیر ، راولاکوٹ آزاد جموں کشمیر 3) نثار احمد ، بلوچ آزاد جموں کشمیر 4) کاشف یعقوب راولاکوٹ آزاد جموں کشمیر 5) سردار فدا حسین تراڑکھل آزاد جموں کشمیر 6) مزمل ، علی سوجل آزاد…&mdash; Awami Action Committe (@JAAC__Official) <a href="https://x.com/JAAC__Official/status/2081929140060434770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>PTI boycott, JAAC banned</h2>Former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) boycotted the polls, while the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has been banned by the authorities.According to PTI, more than 100 people were killed during violent clashes following last month's JAAC-led protests, which disrupted normal life in the region for nearly 50 days.The JAAC had demanded the abolition of 12 refugee seats in the assembly, a demand rejected by the government. Following the violence, authorities banned the organisation.

<h2>March began after talks failed</h2>The march towards Muzaffarabad was launched after negotiations between the JAAC and the administration failed to produce an agreement. The committee had earlier given authorities until 1 pm on July 27 to issue a notification accepting its demands, including the release of detained activists, withdrawal of criminal cases against protesters and implementation of broader reforms.When no agreement was reached, thousands gathered in Rawalakot and began marching towards the regional capital.Authorities have also postponed elections in the Sudhnoti and Rawalakot districts until August 10 due to the ongoing protest movement.

The first phase of elections to the so-called legislative assembly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir turned violent, with 19 people killed, several others injured and rival parties accusing each other of poll rigging as anti-government protests continued across the region.

The first phase of elections to the so-called legislative assembly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) turned violent on Monday (Jul 27), with at least 19 people killed, several others injured and rival political parties accusing each other of poll rigging amid continuing anti-government protests. The elections, originally scheduled for July 27, are being held in three phases until August 10. India does not recognise the elections held in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and has consistently maintained that Pakistan is in illegal occupation of the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The Ministry of External Affairs has consistently opposed such polls, reiterating that the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan, are integral and inalienable parts of India. New Delhi has described the unrest in PoK as a direct consequence of Islamabad's "systemic exploitation and administrative oppression" in territories under its "forcible occupation". Protesters allege indiscriminate firing The election-day violence coincided with continuing demonstrations led by the JAAC, whose supporters accused Pakistani security forces of opening fire on protesters in Rawalakot. The demonstrations intensified after talks between the JAAC and the authorities collapsed, prompting thousands of protesters to begin a march towards Muzaffarabad. In a post on X, the Awami Action Committee has disclosed the names of the 19 people killed in the firing.

The first phase of elections to the so-called legislative assembly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir turned violent, with 19 people killed, several others injured and rival parties accusing each other of poll rigging as anti-government protests continued across the region.

Pakistan-occupied Kashmir election turns violent: 19 killed, protests intensify as rigging allegations fly

As the impasse over the US-Iran war continues, Pakistan’s desperate attempt to showcase its relevance also continues.&nbsp;&nbsp;At a time when his country is in dire need of foreign investments and energy supplies, Pak army chief Asim Munir is trying to create what is perceived as a new military alliance of Muslim-majority nations.&nbsp;This process gained momentum last year, when Pakistan and Saudi Arabia inked a strategic mutual defence agreement in September.&nbsp;The two countries pledged that any attack on either nation would be treated as an act of aggression against both.&nbsp;Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is also exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye.&nbsp;Now, the defence agreement with Kuwait has come under scrutiny.&nbsp;While both nations signed the deal in 2023 itself, Kuwait ratified it only a day earlier.&nbsp;The reason for this prolonged delay remains a mystery.&nbsp;As per reports, the pact establishes a framework for cooperation between Pakistani and Kuwaiti armed forces in areas such as training, intelligence sharing, logistics, and military manufacturing.&nbsp;A joint military committee will reportedly oversee this pact, which shall remain in place for five years.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-eyes-defence-pact-with-qatar-turkiye-1785173237509/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-eyes-defence-pact-with-qatar-turkiye-1785173237509/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;This comes at a time when Kuwait’s infrastructure has borne the brunt of Iran’s retaliation during the ongoing West Asia war.&nbsp;It has been grappling with a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones as well as attacks on US bases and desalination plants.&nbsp;As per Reuters, Pakistan has been negotiating an expanded defence agreement with Kuwait in exchange for energy cooperation and investment.&nbsp;Kuwait is reportedly seeking the deployment of Pakistani forces on its soil, akin to the Saudi Arabia pact.&nbsp;Reuters also claimed that Bahrain is interested in a similar agreement, whereas Jordan has expressed interest in a weapons and training deal with Pakistan.&nbsp;Now, in January this year, Pakistan’s federal minister for defence production, Raza Hayat Harraj, revealed that Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye are exploring a joint defence pact.&nbsp;But a final consensus is yet to emerge.&nbsp;In May, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif went a step ahead. He told local media that Pakistan desires Qatar as well as Turkiye to join its existing defence agreement with Saudi Arabia to ensure a robust defence alliance in West Asia.&nbsp;He said, “That will potentially minimise dependence on the outside region.”&nbsp;Even as Pakistan attempts to boost its military prowess to strengthen its position in a potential conflict with India, it is worth noting that Munir’s forces have struggled to tackle even internal turmoil.&nbsp;Whether it is Balochistan or Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, dissatisfaction and calls for freedom are growing.&nbsp;At present, a Pakistan-driven military alliance seems to be a pipe dream at best.

Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia. While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye.

As the impasse over the US-Iran war continues, Pakistan’s desperate attempt to showcase its relevance also continues. At a time when his country is in dire need of foreign investments and energy supplies, Pak army chief Asim Munir is trying to create what is perceived as a new military alliance of Muslim-majority nations. This process gained momentum last year, when Pakistan and Saudi Arabia inked a strategic mutual defence agreement in September. The two countries pledged that any attack on either nation would be treated as an act of aggression against both. Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia. While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is also exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye. Now, the defence agreement with Kuwait has come under scrutiny. While both nations signed the deal in 2023 itself, Kuwait ratified it only a day earlier. The reason for this prolonged delay remains a mystery. As per reports, the pact establishes a framework for cooperation between Pakistani and Kuwaiti armed forces in areas such as training, intelligence sharing, logistics, and military manufacturing. A joint military committee will reportedly oversee this pact, which shall remain in place for five years. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-eyes-defence-pact-with-qatar-turkiye-1785173237509/embed This comes at a time when Kuwait’s infrastructure has borne the brunt of Iran’s retaliation during the ongoing West Asia war. It has been grappling with a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones as well as attacks on US bases and desalination plants. As per Reuters, Pakistan has been negotiating an expanded defence agreement with Kuwait in exchange for energy cooperation and investment. Kuwait is reportedly seeking the deployment of Pakistani forces on its soil, akin to the Saudi Arabia pact. Reuters also claimed that Bahrain is interested in a similar agreement, whereas Jordan has expressed interest in a weapons and training deal with Pakistan. Now, in January this year, Pakistan’s federal minister for defence production, Raza Hayat Harraj, revealed that Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye are exploring a joint defence pact. But a final consensus is yet to emerge. In May, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif went a step ahead. He told local media that Pakistan desires Qatar as well as Turkiye to join its existing defence agreement with Saudi Arabia to ensure a robust defence alliance in West Asia. He said, “That will potentially minimise dependence on the outside region.” Even as Pakistan attempts to boost its military prowess to strengthen its position in a potential conflict with India, it is worth noting that Munir’s forces have struggled to tackle even internal turmoil. Whether it is Balochistan or Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, dissatisfaction and calls for freedom are growing. At present, a Pakistan-driven military alliance seems to be a pipe dream at best.

Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia. While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye.

Asim Munir eyes defence deal with Qatar & Turkiye after Kuwait as Pakistan seeks investments | Gravitas

A terror attack on a joint police checkpost in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Tank district on Thursday night killed 15 people, including 14 security personnel, the Pakistan military’s media wing said on Friday. Among those killed were 12 Pakistani soldiers and two policemen.&nbsp;According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attackers tried to breach the security of the joint check post but were repelled by security forces.&nbsp;The attackers then rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the check post, causing a powerful blast that severely damaged the facility.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-s-mulling-a-massive-bigger-than-ever-before-attack-on-iran-1784828958067">Trump says he’s mulling ‘a massive, bigger than ever before’ attack on Iran</a>&nbsp;The ISPR said that the blast killed 15 men, including 12 military troops, two policemen and a government official from the forest department.&nbsp;It added that the troops engaged with the attackers and killed 12 terrorists.&nbsp;The ISPR stated that a sanitisation operation was underway in the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-flew-irgc-men-advisers-and-military-gear-to-yemen-to-bolster-houthis-for-red-sea-blockade-sources-1784820749435">Iran flew IRGC men, advisers and military gear to Yemen, bolstered Houthis for Red Sea blockade: Sources</a>&nbsp;Following the attack, Tank Deputy Commissioner Jamshed Khan imposed Section 144 across the district and announced a district-wide curfew in view of the prevailing security situation. Under the order, all movement has been restricted from 6 am to 6 pm until further notice.&nbsp;The order exempts law enforcement agencies, rescue services, ambulances, the fire brigade and other emergency services from the restrictions. Authorities have urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and avoid unnecessary travel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-hold-iran-responsible-for-houthi-attacks-on-ships-in-red-sea-1784813106940">Trump says US will hold Iran responsible for Houthi attacks on ships in Red Sea</a>&nbsp;K-P Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has sought a report on the incident from the relevant authorities.&nbsp;Police said that further details regarding the attack and any additional casualties will be released after the operation is completed.

The attackers first tried to breach the security of the joint check post but were repelled by security forces. The attackers then rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the check post, causing a powerful blast that severely damaged the facility.

A terror attack on a joint police checkpost in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Tank district on Thursday night killed 15 people, including 14 security personnel, the Pakistan military’s media wing said on Friday. Among those killed were 12 Pakistani soldiers and two policemen. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attackers tried to breach the security of the joint check post but were repelled by security forces. The attackers then rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the check post, causing a powerful blast that severely damaged the facility. Also Read: Trump says he’s mulling ‘a massive, bigger than ever before’ attack on Iran The ISPR said that the blast killed 15 men, including 12 military troops, two policemen and a government official from the forest department. It added that the troops engaged with the attackers and killed 12 terrorists. The ISPR stated that a sanitisation operation was underway in the area. Also Read: Iran flew IRGC men, advisers and military gear to Yemen, bolstered Houthis for Red Sea blockade: Sources Following the attack, Tank Deputy Commissioner Jamshed Khan imposed Section 144 across the district and announced a district-wide curfew in view of the prevailing security situation. Under the order, all movement has been restricted from 6 am to 6 pm until further notice. The order exempts law enforcement agencies, rescue services, ambulances, the fire brigade and other emergency services from the restrictions. Authorities have urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and avoid unnecessary travel. Also Read: Trump says US will hold Iran responsible for Houthi attacks on ships in Red Sea K-P Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has sought a report on the incident from the relevant authorities. Police said that further details regarding the attack and any additional casualties will be released after the operation is completed.

The attackers first tried to breach the security of the joint check post but were repelled by security forces. The attackers then rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the check post, causing a powerful blast that severely damaged the facility.

Terror attack on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa checkpost kills 15, including 12 Pakistani soldiers

India on Wednesday (Jul 22) slammed Pakistan at the United Nations, accusing it of using cross-border terrorism as an "instrument of State policy" and reiterating that Jammu and Kashmir "has always been, is, and will remain" an integral part of India.Speaking at the High-Level Open Debate of the UN Security Council on Natural Resources Governance: the Foundation of Peace, Security and Prosperity, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, accused Pakistan of misusing the forum to advance what he described as a "false narrative."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-india-wants-a-permanent-unsc-seat-why-is-it-still-contesting-for-a-temporary-one-wion-decodes-1784104714747">If India wants a permanent UNSC seat, why is it still contesting for a temporary one? WION Decodes</a><h2>Pakistan continues to push 'false narrative'</h2>Speaking at the high-level debate, Harish noted that New Delhi was being "compelled" to counter Islamabad's "false narrative"."It was not our intention to bring other issues in this forum, but my delegation is compelled to respond to Pakistan, as it has chosen to misuse today's discussion to peddle its false narrative," said Harish.Reaffirming India's position on Jammu and Kashmir, the envoy said the Union Territory is an "integral and inalienable part" of the country. "For the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, it has always been, is, and will remain an integral and inalienable part of India. This is the constitutional and legal reality that Pakistan deliberately chooses to ignore," he said.<h2>India points out the "only outstanding issue" on Kashmir</h2>Harish also asserted that the only unresolved issue concerning Jammu and Kashmir was what he termed Pakistan's "naked aggression and illegal occupation" of Indian territory."The only outstanding issue with regard to Jammu and Kashmir is the naked aggression and illegal occupation of India's sovereign territory by Pakistan," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-should-not-happen-in-a-democracy-shashi-tharoor-slams-detention-of-rahul-gandhi-priyanka-gandhi-after-protest-outside-pm-modi-s-residence-1784684704207">'This should not happen in a democracy': Shashi Tharoor slams detention of Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi after protest outside PM Modi's residence</a><h2>Indus Water Treaty to remain in abeyance</h2>Referring to the Indus Water Treaty, the Indian envoy said New Delhi's position remained "clear and consistent" and linked cooperation under the treaty to an environment of mutual trust."Our position on the Indus Water Treaty remains clear and consistent. Cooperation on the basis of mutual trust and goodwill cannot be expected when cross-border terrorism is regularly deployed as an instrument of State policy," Harish said.In his concluding remarks, the ambassador urged Pakistan to focus on addressing its domestic challenges rather than criticising India. "Instead of pointing fingers at India, Pakistan would serve itself and its people far better by putting its own house in order," he said.

India accused Pakistan at the United Nations of using cross-border terrorism as an "instrument of State policy", rejected Islamabad's remarks on Jammu and Kashmir, and reiterated that the Union Territory is an integral part of India. Here's all you need to know

India on Wednesday (Jul 22) slammed Pakistan at the United Nations, accusing it of using cross-border terrorism as an "instrument of State policy" and reiterating that Jammu and Kashmir "has always been, is, and will remain" an integral part of India. Speaking at the High-Level Open Debate of the UN Security Council on Natural Resources Governance: the Foundation of Peace, Security and Prosperity, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, accused Pakistan of misusing the forum to advance what he described as a "false narrative." Also read | If India wants a permanent UNSC seat, why is it still contesting for a temporary one? WION Decodes Pakistan continues to push 'false narrative' Speaking at the high-level debate, Harish noted that New Delhi was being "compelled" to counter Islamabad's "false narrative". "It was not our intention to bring other issues in this forum, but my delegation is compelled to respond to Pakistan, as it has chosen to misuse today's discussion to peddle its false narrative," said Harish. Reaffirming India's position on Jammu and Kashmir, the envoy said the Union Territory is an "integral and inalienable part" of the country. "For the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, it has always been, is, and will remain an integral and inalienable part of India. This is the constitutional and legal reality that Pakistan deliberately chooses to ignore," he said. India points out the "only outstanding issue" on Kashmir Harish also asserted that the only unresolved issue concerning Jammu and Kashmir was what he termed Pakistan's "naked aggression and illegal occupation" of Indian territory. "The only outstanding issue with regard to Jammu and Kashmir is the naked aggression and illegal occupation of India's sovereign territory by Pakistan," he said. Also read | 'This should not happen in a democracy': Shashi Tharoor slams detention of Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi after protest outside PM Modi's residence Indus Water Treaty to remain in abeyance Referring to the Indus Water Treaty, the Indian envoy said New Delhi's position remained "clear and consistent" and linked cooperation under the treaty to an environment of mutual trust. "Our position on the Indus Water Treaty remains clear and consistent. Cooperation on the basis of mutual trust and goodwill cannot be expected when cross-border terrorism is regularly deployed as an instrument of State policy," Harish said. In his concluding remarks, the ambassador urged Pakistan to focus on addressing its domestic challenges rather than criticising India. "Instead of pointing fingers at India, Pakistan would serve itself and its people far better by putting its own house in order," he said.

India accused Pakistan at the United Nations of using cross-border terrorism as an "instrument of State policy", rejected Islamabad's remarks on Jammu and Kashmir, and reiterated that the Union Territory is an integral part of India. Here's all you need to know

'Put your house in order': India links Indus Water Treaty directly to Pakistan's cross-border terrorism in sharp UN showdown

Four months ago, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir’s forces crossed all limits in its war with Afghanistan by bombing Kabul’s Omid addiction treatment hospital. Now, calls are growing for Pakistan’s nefarious role in this humanitarian catastrophe to be investigated as a ‘war crime’.&nbsp;Let’s jog your memory back to March 16.&nbsp;At around 9 pm local time, thick smoke blanketed the area around the Kabul hospital, which catered to people with drug-dependence problems.&nbsp;Visuals showed a spate of destruction after Pakistan’s air strikes. Firefighters scrambled to douse the blaze.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-drones-hit-warehouses-of-russia-s-top-online-retailer-wildberries-again-1784728533655">Ukrainian drones hit warehouses of Russia’s top online retailer Wildberries, again</a>&nbsp;Buildings on the site were reduced to rubble. Distraught people were seen searching for their loved ones. The human toll of Pakistan’s air strikes was huge.&nbsp;While Taliban stated that about 400 people were killed, the UN assistance mission in Afghanistan independently verified the killing of at least 269 civilians, whereas 122 others were wounded.&nbsp;Now, what did the Amnesty investigation find?&nbsp;It confirmed that the hospital was built in 2016, on the site of a former NATO base.&nbsp;While it originally operated as a vocational training facility for people being treated for substance dependence, it was expanded into a 2,000-bed treatment centre after Taliban seized power in 2021.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oppn-using-students-as-political-tools-creating-manufactured-sense-of-anger-rajnath-singh-1784716925229">‘Oppn using students as political tools, creating ‘manufactured sense of anger’: Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;After analysing over 60 photos and videos and reviewing more than 30 satellite images, Amnesty rejected Pakistan’s claim that the site was used as a storage facility for weapons and ammunition.&nbsp;Speaking to eyewitnesses, it ascertained that over a thousand patients were housed in this hospital.&nbsp;Three locations, including a dining hall, kitchen and the place where patients lived, were also reportedly destroyed in Pakistan’s air strikes.&nbsp;Most importantly, Amnesty questioned the timing of the attack, which gave no chance for civilians to escape.&nbsp;According to this NGO, Pakistan’s airstrikes were against international humanitarian law, which accorded special protection to healthcare facilities.&nbsp;Stressing that this attack amounted to a war crime, Amnesty called for an impartial probe and the guilty to be punished.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-puts-condition-for-ending-fast-seeks-assurance-of-no-punitive-action-against-protesters-1784724401578">Sonam Wangchuk puts condition for ending fast, seeks assurance of no punitive action against protesters</a>&nbsp;Previously, the UN also called for a swift and independent investigation into Pakistan’s dastardly attack.&nbsp;Although both nations agreed to a ceasefire in October 2025, the truce ended in February this year after Pakistan conducted air strikes in Afghanistan.&nbsp;Pakistan continues to target innocent civilians.&nbsp;In June-end, Munir’s forces killed at least 36 civilians with fresh air strikes on the three eastern provinces of Paktika, Kunar, and Paktia.&nbsp;Subsequently, Afghanistan claimed to have conducted air strikes in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.&nbsp;In the first three months of 2026, the UN documented the killing of 372 Afghan civilians and injuries to 397 others due to Pakistan’s attacks.&nbsp;The latest report just goes to expose Pakistan’s real face on the global stage yet again, amid its farcical attempt to emerge as a ‘peacemaker’.

After analysing over 60 photos and videos and reviewing more than 30 satellite images, Amnesty rejected Pakistan’s claim that the site was used as a storage facility for weapons and ammunition. It ascertained that over a thousand patients were housed in this hospital.

Four months ago, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir’s forces crossed all limits in its war with Afghanistan by bombing Kabul’s Omid addiction treatment hospital. Now, calls are growing for Pakistan’s nefarious role in this humanitarian catastrophe to be investigated as a ‘war crime’. Let’s jog your memory back to March 16. At around 9 pm local time, thick smoke blanketed the area around the Kabul hospital, which catered to people with drug-dependence problems. Visuals showed a spate of destruction after Pakistan’s air strikes. Firefighters scrambled to douse the blaze. Also Read: Ukrainian drones hit warehouses of Russia’s top online retailer Wildberries, again Buildings on the site were reduced to rubble. Distraught people were seen searching for their loved ones. The human toll of Pakistan’s air strikes was huge. While Taliban stated that about 400 people were killed, the UN assistance mission in Afghanistan independently verified the killing of at least 269 civilians, whereas 122 others were wounded. Now, what did the Amnesty investigation find? It confirmed that the hospital was built in 2016, on the site of a former NATO base. While it originally operated as a vocational training facility for people being treated for substance dependence, it was expanded into a 2,000-bed treatment centre after Taliban seized power in 2021. Also Read: ‘Oppn using students as political tools, creating ‘manufactured sense of anger’: Rajnath Singh After analysing over 60 photos and videos and reviewing more than 30 satellite images, Amnesty rejected Pakistan’s claim that the site was used as a storage facility for weapons and ammunition. Speaking to eyewitnesses, it ascertained that over a thousand patients were housed in this hospital. Three locations, including a dining hall, kitchen and the place where patients lived, were also reportedly destroyed in Pakistan’s air strikes. Most importantly, Amnesty questioned the timing of the attack, which gave no chance for civilians to escape. According to this NGO, Pakistan’s airstrikes were against international humanitarian law, which accorded special protection to healthcare facilities. Stressing that this attack amounted to a war crime, Amnesty called for an impartial probe and the guilty to be punished. Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk puts condition for ending fast, seeks assurance of no punitive action against protesters Previously, the UN also called for a swift and independent investigation into Pakistan’s dastardly attack. Although both nations agreed to a ceasefire in October 2025, the truce ended in February this year after Pakistan conducted air strikes in Afghanistan. Pakistan continues to target innocent civilians. In June-end, Munir’s forces killed at least 36 civilians with fresh air strikes on the three eastern provinces of Paktika, Kunar, and Paktia. Subsequently, Afghanistan claimed to have conducted air strikes in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. In the first three months of 2026, the UN documented the killing of 372 Afghan civilians and injuries to 397 others due to Pakistan’s attacks. The latest report just goes to expose Pakistan’s real face on the global stage yet again, amid its farcical attempt to emerge as a ‘peacemaker’.

After analysing over 60 photos and videos and reviewing more than 30 satellite images, Amnesty rejected Pakistan’s claim that the site was used as a storage facility for weapons and ammunition. It ascertained that over a thousand patients were housed in this hospital.

Fresh embarrassment for Munir as Amnesty dubs Pak attack on Kabul hospital as ‘war crime’ | Gravitas

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