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Instead of denouncing the brutal terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir&rsquo;s Pahalgam, carried out by terrorists backed by Pakistan or acknowledging responsibility, Pakistan&rsquo;s former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari delivered a provocative speech, threatening India with violence over the suspension of Indus Waters Treaty.
<h2>'Either our water or their blood'</h2>
Speaking at a public gathering, Bhutto said, &ldquo;I would like to stand beside this Indus river and tell India that Indus is ours and it will remain ours or our water will flow through this river or their blood will flow through it.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-brother-is-mujahideen-big-admission-by-sister-of-pahalgam-attack-terrorist-after-house-demolition-9002134" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'My brother is Mujahideen': BIG admission by sister of Pahalgam attack terrorist after house demolition</a>
After the terror attack that killed at least 27 people, India responded with a series of diplomatic measures. Among them is the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).&nbsp;
Bhutto continued, &ldquo;This time, India has attacked Sindhu. You must have heard that there was an incident of terrorism in occupied Kashmir. We all condemned that incident of terrorism. We said that Pakistan is also affected by terrorism. The people of Pakistan are also fighting terrorism. So, we also condemn the incident of terrorism that happened in occupied Kashmir. But India has blamed Pakistan for it.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/seeking-attention-daughter-of-malayali-tourist-killed-in-pahalgam-now-faces-online-abuse-not-from-terrorists-but-9001684" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Seeking attention': Daughter of Kerala tourist killed in Pahalgam now faces online abuse, not from terrorists but...</a>
Bhutto, who heads the Pakistan People&rsquo;s Party, added, &ldquo;India may have a larger population than us, but the people of Pakistan are brave, we are brave people. We will fight you bravely. We will fight you in Pakistan. Our voices on the borders will give you a befitting reply.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;This river belongs to all of us. It belongs to the whole of Pakistan. And at this moment our enemy, our neighbouring country, is eyeing our river. The whole of Pakistan will have to unite and fight them.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-kerela-woman-recalls-horror-of-9001164" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;He said Kalma, then shot my father&rsquo;: Woman recalls horror of Pahalgam terror attack</a>
The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, brokered with World Bank assistance, had previously withstood two wars between India and Pakistan.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pahalgam-attack-rage-in-india-worry-in-pak-as-people-demand-justice-9002588">Pahalgam attack: Rage in India, worry in Pak as people demand justice</a>

Pakistan: After the terror attack that killed at least 27 people, India responded with a series of diplomatic measures. Among them is the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).

Instead of denouncing the brutal terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, carried out by terrorists backed by Pakistan or acknowledging responsibility, Pakistan’s former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari delivered a provocative speech, threatening India with violence over the suspension of Indus Waters Treaty. 'Either our water or their blood' Speaking at a public gathering, Bhutto said, “I would like to stand beside this Indus river and tell India that Indus is ours and it will remain ours or our water will flow through this river or their blood will flow through it.” Also read: 'My brother is Mujahideen': BIG admission by sister of Pahalgam attack terrorist after house demolition After the terror attack that killed at least 27 people, India responded with a series of diplomatic measures. Among them is the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Bhutto continued, “This time, India has attacked Sindhu. You must have heard that there was an incident of terrorism in occupied Kashmir. We all condemned that incident of terrorism. We said that Pakistan is also affected by terrorism. The people of Pakistan are also fighting terrorism. So, we also condemn the incident of terrorism that happened in occupied Kashmir. But India has blamed Pakistan for it.” Also read: 'Seeking attention': Daughter of Kerala tourist killed in Pahalgam now faces online abuse, not from terrorists but... Bhutto, who heads the Pakistan People’s Party, added, “India may have a larger population than us, but the people of Pakistan are brave, we are brave people. We will fight you bravely. We will fight you in Pakistan. Our voices on the borders will give you a befitting reply.” He added, “This river belongs to all of us. It belongs to the whole of Pakistan. And at this moment our enemy, our neighbouring country, is eyeing our river. The whole of Pakistan will have to unite and fight them.” Also read: ‘He said Kalma, then shot my father’: Woman recalls horror of Pahalgam terror attack The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, brokered with World Bank assistance, had previously withstood two wars between India and Pakistan. Watch: Pahalgam attack: Rage in India, worry in Pak as people demand justice

'Either our water will flow or their blood...': Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto's war pitch over Indus Waters Treaty after Pahalgam attack

The tourist paradise of India, Jammu and Kashmir was a witness to one of the worst terrorist attacks on Tuesday (April 22), when three terrorists holding assault rifles gunned down 27 tourists in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. The responsibility for the attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF).
<h2>Emergence of proxy organisations</h2>
The organisation is not an isolated entity but a proxy of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In January 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had declared the TRF a &ldquo;terrorist organisation&rdquo; under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) after the organisation issued threats to journalists in Kashmir.
In recent years, newer outfits such as TRF, PAFF (People's Anti-Fascist Front), and United Liberation Front (ULF) have emerged shedding their Islamist labels of LeT or Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).&nbsp;
They appear secular, political in their rhetoric but are proxy arms of Pakistan-based jihadist groups and tread the same path.
<h2>Why the rebranding by Pakistani terror outfits?</h2>
This can be termed as a very thoughtful move by the terrorist organisations and Pakistan as Islamabad is under immense pressure from global watchdogs like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to crack down on terror financing and dismantle the infrastructure of jihadist outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), who have been designated terrorist organisations by the United Nations, United States and other major countries.
Once declared a terrorist organisation these terror outfits face severe financial restrictions. It also puts Pakistan under immense diplomatic pressure.
Thus, in order to evade the international scrutiny, Pakistan has begun to promote proxies, who could still give shape to their motive of carrying out terror activities in India, particularly the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;
In an interview to Moneycontrol, Dr Shalini Chawla, Distinguished Fellow at Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS) said, "TRF was created post abrogation of Article 370 and was strategically not given a religious identity. Why not Lashkar, though it is a shadow of Lashkar, because of the fact that at that time, Pakistan was under the FATF grey list and were under the scrutiny for terror financing and other things. So, this was a move which was basically designed to avoid scrutiny of FATF."
The move has allowed Pakistan to deny its role in any such attacks and escape international scrutiny and imposition of restrictions.
<h2>The Pahalgam attack</h2>
In one of the deadliest attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in the recent past, 26 tourists were gunned down by terrorists in the Baisaran meadow on Tuesday (April 22). Known as &lsquo;mini-Switzerland', Baisaran is located at a distance of 5 kilometres from the main centre of Pahalgam.
The meadow is accessible only by foot or ponies and is also a popular trekking location. The rugged, steep, difficult to traverse terrain made it a likely target by terrorists.

Once declared a terrorist organisation these terror outfits face severe financial restrictions. It also puts Pakistan under immense diplomatic pressure World | India News

The tourist paradise of India, Jammu and Kashmir was a witness to one of the worst terrorist attacks on Tuesday (April 22), when three terrorists holding assault rifles gunned down 27 tourists in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. The responsibility for the attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF). Emergence of proxy organisations The organisation is not an isolated entity but a proxy of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In January 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had declared the TRF a “terrorist organisation” under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) after the organisation issued threats to journalists in Kashmir. In recent years, newer outfits such as TRF, PAFF (People's Anti-Fascist Front), and United Liberation Front (ULF) have emerged shedding their Islamist labels of LeT or Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). They appear secular, political in their rhetoric but are proxy arms of Pakistan-based jihadist groups and tread the same path. Why the rebranding by Pakistani terror outfits? This can be termed as a very thoughtful move by the terrorist organisations and Pakistan as Islamabad is under immense pressure from global watchdogs like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to crack down on terror financing and dismantle the infrastructure of jihadist outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), who have been designated terrorist organisations by the United Nations, United States and other major countries. Once declared a terrorist organisation these terror outfits face severe financial restrictions. It also puts Pakistan under immense diplomatic pressure. Thus, in order to evade the international scrutiny, Pakistan has begun to promote proxies, who could still give shape to their motive of carrying out terror activities in India, particularly the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In an interview to Moneycontrol, Dr Shalini Chawla, Distinguished Fellow at Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS) said, "TRF was created post abrogation of Article 370 and was strategically not given a religious identity. Why not Lashkar, though it is a shadow of Lashkar, because of the fact that at that time, Pakistan was under the FATF grey list and were under the scrutiny for terror financing and other things. So, this was a move which was basically designed to avoid scrutiny of FATF." The move has allowed Pakistan to deny its role in any such attacks and escape international scrutiny and imposition of restrictions. The Pahalgam attack In one of the deadliest attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in the recent past, 26 tourists were gunned down by terrorists in the Baisaran meadow on Tuesday (April 22). Known as ‘mini-Switzerland', Baisaran is located at a distance of 5 kilometres from the main centre of Pahalgam. The meadow is accessible only by foot or ponies and is also a popular trekking location. The rugged, steep, difficult to traverse terrain made it a likely target by terrorists.

Old poison in new bottle: Why Pakistan sponsored terror outfits are rebranding themselves?

In the aftermath of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-live-india-responds-after-pakistan-army-initiates-firing-at-some-places-on-loc-8999391" rel="dofollow">Pahalgam terror attack</a>, India and Pakistan have announced ti-for-tat measures against each other, which has led to a derailment of the already fragile relations between the two countries. While New Delhi suspended the crucial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-writes-to-pakistan-about-indus-waters-treaty-decision-highlights-sustained-cross-border-terrorism-8999013" rel="dofollow">Indus Waters Treaty</a>, Islamabad has put in abeyance the Simla Agreement, known to be the cornerstone of ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.&nbsp;
With diplomacy taking a backseat, and aggression at the border following a horrific terror attack driving the ties, here's a look at other bilateral agreements between the two countries:
1. The Karachi Agreement (1949): This agreement established ceasa efire line in Jammu and Kashmir after Pakistan's Pashtun tribal militias crossed the border and entered the Kashmir valley in 1947. The agreement was mediated by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan &nbsp;(UNCIP).
2. Nehru-Liaquat Pact (1950):&nbsp;This pact between then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistan's PM Liaquat Ali Khan was signed to ensure the protection of minorities in both countries. It guaranteed all rights to minorities in India and Pakistan.&nbsp;
3. Tashkent Agreement (1966):&nbsp;This was signed after the Indo-Pak war of 1965 and was brokered by Soviet Union. This called for troops to return to pre-war positions, and reestablish diplomatic relations after the war. It also stated non-interference in each other's internal affairs.
4. Delhi Agreement (1973): The Delhi Agreement was a trilateral agreement signed between India, Pakistan and Bangladesh and ratified only by India and Pakistan. It allowed the repatriation of prisoners of war and interned officials held in the three countries after the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
5. Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines (1974): This protocol facilitates visits by pilgrims to religious sites across the border. It covers 15 shrines in Pakistan and five in India.
6. Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack Against Nuclear Installations (1988, effective 1991): Signed in 1988 but effective from 1991, both the nations under this agreed not to attack each other's nuclear facilities and annually share lists of nuclear installations on January 1.
7.&nbsp;Agreement on Prevention of Airspace Violations (1991):&nbsp;This agreement, signed in New Delhi, set ground rules to prevent accidental airspace breaches. It forbids military aircraft from flying within 10 km of the border and bars unauthorised entry into each other&rsquo;s airspace, including over territorial waters.
8. Lahore Declaration (1999):&nbsp;This was signed between then India PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif after both neighbours had conducted nuclear tests. It called for avoiding a nuclear conflict in the future. Under this, both the countries also agreed to notify each other of ballistic missile tests in advance.
9. LoC Ceasefire Agreement (2003): In November 2003, both countries agreed to cease hostilities along the Line of Control (LoC).
10. Agreement on Pre-Notification of Ballistic Missile Tests (2005): This agreement requires each country to give the other at least three days&rsquo; notice before testing surface-to-surface ballistic missiles.&nbsp;
11. Agreement on Reducing Risk from Nuclear Accidents (2007): Effective from 2007, this agreement commits both sides to notify each other in case of a nuclear accident. The pact has been extended twice since, in 2012 and 2017.
&nbsp;12. Agreement on Consular Access (2008): India and Pakistan have an Agreement on Consular Access, signed in 2008, which facilitates access for consular officials to their citizens detained in the other country. This agreement also involves the regular exchange of lists of prisoners and fishermen in each other's custody.
<h2>What is Indus Waters Treaty and Simla Agreement?</h2>
The Simla Agreement was signed by then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan&rsquo;s Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on July 2, 1972. The agreement was the aftermath of the 1971 war. The agreement states that the governments of India and Pakistan are &ldquo;resolved that the two countries put an end to the conflict and confrontation that have hitherto marred their relations.&rdquo; It added that the two nations will &ldquo;work for the promotion of a friendly and harmonious relationship and the establishment of durable peace in the sub-continent.&rdquo;&nbsp;According to the agreement, India and Pakistan are &ldquo;resolved to settle their differences by peaceful means through bilateral negotiations or by any other peaceful means mutually agreed upon between them.&rdquo;
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-suspends-indus-water-treaty-with-pakistan-what-is-it-8994958" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pahalgam terror attack: India suspends Indus Waters treaty, what is it and how will it affect Pakistan</a>
India and Pakistan, in 1960, made a formal agreement, called the Indus Waters Treaty, to decide how water will be shared between the both countries from the Indus river. The need for a treaty for water sharing arose after Independence when control over the river became a point of potential conflict between the two nations.
India briefly stopped water flow to Pakistan in 1948. Later, Pakistan complained to the United Nations (UN) that India wasn't letting enough water through. The UN suggested getting help, which led to the World Bank stepping in to mediate. After almost nine years of negotiation, India's then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistan's then-President Ayub Khan finally signed the agreement in 1960. The treaty splits the six main rivers of the Indus system between India and Pakistan: Ravi,Beas, Sutlej to India and Indus, Chenab, Jhelum to Pakistan.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-attari-check-post-which-india-has-closed-immediately-to-punish-pakistan-8995142" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pahalgam terror attack: What is Attari check post, which India has closed immediately to punish Pakistan?</a>

With diplomacy taking a backseat between India and Pakistan, and aggression at the border following a horrific terror attack driving the ties, here's a look at other bilateral agreements between the two nuclear-armed neighbours

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, India and Pakistan have announced ti-for-tat measures against each other, which has led to a derailment of the already fragile relations between the two countries. While New Delhi suspended the crucial Indus Waters Treaty, Islamabad has put in abeyance the Simla Agreement, known to be the cornerstone of ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. With diplomacy taking a backseat, and aggression at the border following a horrific terror attack driving the ties, here's a look at other bilateral agreements between the two countries: 1. The Karachi Agreement (1949): This agreement established ceasa efire line in Jammu and Kashmir after Pakistan's Pashtun tribal militias crossed the border and entered the Kashmir valley in 1947. The agreement was mediated by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP). 2. Nehru-Liaquat Pact (1950): This pact between then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistan's PM Liaquat Ali Khan was signed to ensure the protection of minorities in both countries. It guaranteed all rights to minorities in India and Pakistan. 3. Tashkent Agreement (1966): This was signed after the Indo-Pak war of 1965 and was brokered by Soviet Union. This called for troops to return to pre-war positions, and reestablish diplomatic relations after the war. It also stated non-interference in each other's internal affairs. 4. Delhi Agreement (1973): The Delhi Agreement was a trilateral agreement signed between India, Pakistan and Bangladesh and ratified only by India and Pakistan. It allowed the repatriation of prisoners of war and interned officials held in the three countries after the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. 5. Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines (1974): This protocol facilitates visits by pilgrims to religious sites across the border. It covers 15 shrines in Pakistan and five in India. 6. Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack Against Nuclear Installations (1988, effective 1991): Signed in 1988 but effective from 1991, both the nations under this agreed not to attack each other's nuclear facilities and annually share lists of nuclear installations on January 1. 7. Agreement on Prevention of Airspace Violations (1991): This agreement, signed in New Delhi, set ground rules to prevent accidental airspace breaches. It forbids military aircraft from flying within 10 km of the border and bars unauthorised entry into each other’s airspace, including over territorial waters. 8. Lahore Declaration (1999): This was signed between then India PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif after both neighbours had conducted nuclear tests. It called for avoiding a nuclear conflict in the future. Under this, both the countries also agreed to notify each other of ballistic missile tests in advance. 9. LoC Ceasefire Agreement (2003): In November 2003, both countries agreed to cease hostilities along the Line of Control (LoC). 10. Agreement on Pre-Notification of Ballistic Missile Tests (2005): This agreement requires each country to give the other at least three days’ notice before testing surface-to-surface ballistic missiles. 11. Agreement on Reducing Risk from Nuclear Accidents (2007): Effective from 2007, this agreement commits both sides to notify each other in case of a nuclear accident. The pact has been extended twice since, in 2012 and 2017. 12. Agreement on Consular Access (2008): India and Pakistan have an Agreement on Consular Access, signed in 2008, which facilitates access for consular officials to their citizens detained in the other country. This agreement also involves the regular exchange of lists of prisoners and fishermen in each other's custody. What is Indus Waters Treaty and Simla Agreement? The Simla Agreement was signed by then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan’s Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on July 2, 1972. The agreement was the aftermath of the 1971 war. The agreement states that the governments of India and Pakistan are “resolved that the two countries put an end to the conflict and confrontation that have hitherto marred their relations.” It added that the two nations will “work for the promotion of a friendly and harmonious relationship and the establishment of durable peace in the sub-continent.” According to the agreement, India and Pakistan are “resolved to settle their differences by peaceful means through bilateral negotiations or by any other peaceful means mutually agreed upon between them.” Also read | Pahalgam terror attack: India suspends Indus Waters treaty, what is it and how will it affect Pakistan India and Pakistan, in 1960, made a formal agreement, called the Indus Waters Treaty, to decide how water will be shared between the both countries from the Indus river. The need for a treaty for water sharing arose after Independence when control over the river became a point of potential conflict between the two nations. India briefly stopped water flow to Pakistan in 1948. Later, Pakistan complained to the United Nations (UN) that India wasn't letting enough water through. The UN suggested getting help, which led to the World Bank stepping in to mediate. After almost nine years of negotiation, India's then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistan's then-President Ayub Khan finally signed the agreement in 1960. The treaty splits the six main rivers of the Indus system between India and Pakistan: Ravi,Beas, Sutlej to India and Indus, Chenab, Jhelum to Pakistan. Also read | Pahalgam terror attack: What is Attari check post, which India has closed immediately to punish Pakistan?

Simla Agreement to Indus Waters Treaty: List of bilateral agreements between India and Pakistan since 1947

The Pakistan Senate passed a resolution unanimously on Friday denying any link to the deadly attack in Pahalgam, a tourist spot in Kashmir, India, while denouncing all attempts to link it with the 22 April attack. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar moved the resolution stating that Pakistan remains fully capable and prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression, including water terrorism or military provocation. In the resolution, the senate emphasised that the killing of innocent civilians is contrary to the values upheld by Pakistan and rejected &ldquo;all frivolous and baseless attempts to link Pakistan with the Pahalgam Attack of 22nd April 2025&rdquo; in Jammu and Kashmir. It alleged that the Indian government is running a mala fide campaign to malign Pakistan, following a familiar pattern of exploiting the terrorism issue for a political goal. It also criticised India&rsquo;s unilateral declaration to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance and said that it amounts to an act of war.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-doing-dirty-work-for-the-united-states-for-three-decades-khawaja-asif-on-funding-terrorists-organisations-9000004">Pakistan doing 'dirty work for the US' for three decades: Pak defence minister on funding terrorist groups</a>
Terrorists associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot TRF had mercilessly killed around 26 unarmed, innocent civilians on vacation at the popular tourist spot after identifying and segregating Hindus and injuring many others, triggering a huge outrage in India against the dastardly attack. The Senate resolution added that Pakistan &ldquo;remains fully capable and prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression, including water terrorism or military provocation as clearly demonstrated by its robust and valiant response to India&rsquo;s reckless actions in February 2019; and any misadventure by India will be met with a firm, swift and decisive response&rdquo;. &ldquo;[The Senate] emphasises that the people of Pakistan remain committed to peace, but will never allow anyone to transgress the country&rsquo;s sovereignty, security, and interests.&rdquo; On Wednesday, New Delhi had announced a slew of measures against Pakistan following the attack.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-tells-its-nationals-in-pakistan-to-return-at-the-earliest-gives-deadline-to-pakistanis-for-exiting-india-8997408" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India tells its nationals in Pakistan "to return at the earliest", gives deadline to Pakistanis for exiting India</a> Presenting the resolution, Dar said, &ldquo;If anyone is thinking of adventurism in Pakistan, our armed forces are fully ready. If anyone tries to resort to any hostility towards us we will answer them like we have done in the past.&rdquo;&nbsp; &ldquo;India should not make this mistake, as it will [disrupt] regional peace and stability, growth and development, and poverty alleviation,&rdquo; he said. Senator Sherry Rehman, a former minister, said India must remember that PPP founder and former PM Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto made Pakistan a nuclear nation before it engages in any misadventure. &ldquo;These are two nuclear nations, with no risk reduction measures left. Do you want to go to war? Pakistan does not like to go to war. But when we do, when we are provoked, we will not be losing anything to them. I am very clear,&rdquo; she said.
<h2>UN urges India and Pakistan to show &lsquo;maximum restraint&rsquo;&nbsp;</h2>
The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has urged Pakistan and India to show &ldquo;maximum restraint&rdquo; as both countries resorted to measures over a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. &ldquo;The secretary general is obviously following the situation very closely and with very great concern,&rdquo; his spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York on Thursday.
WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-big-action-after-jk-pahalgam-terror-attack-indus-treaty-halted-diplomats-expelled-pakistanis-stopped-from-entering-india-8994833" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India's BIG action after Pahalgam attack: Indus treaty halted, diplomats expelled, Pakistanis stopped from entering India</a> &ldquo;We very much appeal to both the governments&hellip; to exercise maximum restraint, and to ensure that the situation and the developments we&rsquo;ve seen do not deteriorate any further.&rdquo; Dujarric said that the UN chief has not had any direct contact with the leadership of India and Pakistan, adding &ldquo;We believe that any issues between Pakistan and India can be and should be resolved peacefully through meaningful mutual engagement.&rdquo;
&nbsp;

South Asia | Pakistan: Terrorists associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot TRF had mercilessly killed 27 unarmed, innocent civilians on vacation at the popular tourist spot after identifying and segregating Hindus, triggering an outrage in India.

The Pakistan Senate passed a resolution unanimously on Friday denying any link to the deadly attack in Pahalgam, a tourist spot in Kashmir, India, while denouncing all attempts to link it with the 22 April attack. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar moved the resolution stating that Pakistan remains fully capable and prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression, including water terrorism or military provocation. In the resolution, the senate emphasised that the killing of innocent civilians is contrary to the values upheld by Pakistan and rejected “all frivolous and baseless attempts to link Pakistan with the Pahalgam Attack of 22nd April 2025” in Jammu and Kashmir. It alleged that the Indian government is running a mala fide campaign to malign Pakistan, following a familiar pattern of exploiting the terrorism issue for a political goal. It also criticised India’s unilateral declaration to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance and said that it amounts to an act of war. Also Read | Pakistan doing 'dirty work for the US' for three decades: Pak defence minister on funding terrorist groups Terrorists associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot TRF had mercilessly killed around 26 unarmed, innocent civilians on vacation at the popular tourist spot after identifying and segregating Hindus and injuring many others, triggering a huge outrage in India against the dastardly attack. The Senate resolution added that Pakistan “remains fully capable and prepared to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression, including water terrorism or military provocation as clearly demonstrated by its robust and valiant response to India’s reckless actions in February 2019; and any misadventure by India will be met with a firm, swift and decisive response”. “[The Senate] emphasises that the people of Pakistan remain committed to peace, but will never allow anyone to transgress the country’s sovereignty, security, and interests.” On Wednesday, New Delhi had announced a slew of measures against Pakistan following the attack. Also read: India tells its nationals in Pakistan "to return at the earliest", gives deadline to Pakistanis for exiting India Presenting the resolution, Dar said, “If anyone is thinking of adventurism in Pakistan, our armed forces are fully ready. If anyone tries to resort to any hostility towards us we will answer them like we have done in the past.” “India should not make this mistake, as it will [disrupt] regional peace and stability, growth and development, and poverty alleviation,” he said. Senator Sherry Rehman, a former minister, said India must remember that PPP founder and former PM Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto made Pakistan a nuclear nation before it engages in any misadventure. “These are two nuclear nations, with no risk reduction measures left. Do you want to go to war? Pakistan does not like to go to war. But when we do, when we are provoked, we will not be losing anything to them. I am very clear,” she said. UN urges India and Pakistan to show ‘maximum restraint’ The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has urged Pakistan and India to show “maximum restraint” as both countries resorted to measures over a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. “The secretary general is obviously following the situation very closely and with very great concern,” his spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York on Thursday. WATCH | India's BIG action after Pahalgam attack: Indus treaty halted, diplomats expelled, Pakistanis stopped from entering India “We very much appeal to both the governments… to exercise maximum restraint, and to ensure that the situation and the developments we’ve seen do not deteriorate any further.” Dujarric said that the UN chief has not had any direct contact with the leadership of India and Pakistan, adding “We believe that any issues between Pakistan and India can be and should be resolved peacefully through meaningful mutual engagement.”

Pak Senate passes resolution denying any link to Pahalgam attack; UN urges for ‘maximum restraint’

Pahalgam terror attack can lead to Indo Pak war that will help Army Chief Asim Munir emerge as Pakistan leader:&nbsp; Pakistani politicians, who have had a rather chequered relationship with its military, are now rallying behind its army, with the defence minister saying there could be an 'all-out-war' if India goes for an all-out attack in response to the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22. Such a stance is exactly what the Pakistani Army, and specifically its chief Gen Asim Munir would want, given the current political and economic situation of the South Asian nation. Pakistan desperately needs something that unifies it. A war could be just that. What Pakistani politicians do not realise is that a war with India could only lead to the sidelining of politicians and eventually the rise of dictatorships.
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<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2404_G2_PAK_9PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2404_G2_PAK_9PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=480&amp;tags=pakistan, chief, pahalam" title="Has Pakistan Army Chief Gen. Munir launched the next jihad? " id="PL_iframe_block-m9wn1sbq-m4yt1phc-ks8lzax7"></iframe>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-inspired-by-asim-munir-remarks-on-kashmir-is-our-jugular-vein-what-pakistan-army-chief-said-just-days-ago-8992482">Asim Munir, an inspiration for terrorists: Pahalgam attack came exactly a week after Pakistan Army chief said 'Kashmir is our jugular vein'</a>
 Last time Pakistan went into a war with India, a dictatorship emerged under Pervez Musharraf. This time, Asim Munir may be hoping for a similar turn of events. In all these years, politicians helped the Army get into wars with India. Look at what Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said:&nbsp;&ldquo;If there is an all-out attack or something like that, then obviously there will be an all-out war.&rdquo;
He was responding to questions from UK-based Sky News on the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 Indian civilians, even as he accused India of 'staging' the attack in Baisaran valley.
Asif belongs to the Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's ruling PML- (N) party.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pahalgam-terror-attack-indo-pak-war-who-is-pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-is-he-son-of-imam-quran-scholar-full-profile-8999837">Pak Army Chief Asim Munir: Son of imam, 'Islamic scholar', may have an Indo-Pak war to deal with. What is his story?</a>
But pause here for a moment, and look at what the former minister from PML-N's arch rival, Imran Khan's PTI party, said. In response to India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty in the wake of the terror attack, Fawad Choudhry wrote on social media: "Pakistan is politically divided but united as a nation. [But] if attacked or threatened by India, all groups&mdash;PML-N, PPP, PTI, JUI, and others&mdash;will rally together under the Pakistani flag to defend our homeland."&nbsp; This is the perennial problem with Pakistani political-military relationship. The politicians play right into the hands of the military. And it could eventually bring Gen Asim Munir to the centre, both as the leader of its military, and possibly of the nation.
<h2>Gen Munir wants a return to the Islamic roots of Pakistan, and a war can help that</h2>
Asim Munir is a military chief steeped in Islamic learning. His father was an imam, and he learned the Quran by heart. He uses Quranic verses in his speeches. He does not miss a chance to share his knowledge of Islam at public fora. It is at one such event, addressing the overseas Pakistanis, that he re-invoked the two-nation theory and the Hindu-Muslim binary as justification for the creation of Pakistan. He exhorted the gathering to tell future generations Pakistan's story. In the same speech, he made invective-laden remarks about Kashmir, describing it as the 'jugular vein' of Pakistan.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-jawan-detained-by-pakistan-rangers-after-accidentally-crossing-border-family-seeks-information-9000648">BSF jawan detained by Pakistan Rangers after accidentally crossing border, family seeks information</a>
 Kashmir, Islam, Hindu-Muslim identity clash, and India: This is the deadly cocktail that helped Pakistan leaders stay in power. India has always been misused for domestic political gain. The politician-army chief duo of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and&nbsp;General Muhammad Zia-ul Haq did exactly the same. They are behind the 'bleed India through a thousand cuts' doctrine of the Pakistan military: low intensity conflict and insurgencies fomented and backed by Islamabad to make India suffer. Zia eventually oversaw the ouster and hanging of Bhutto, and became Pakistan's military dictator.
<h2>Pakistan Army is fed up of political instability, and may be tired of pulling strings from behind</h2>
&nbsp;
After Musharraf exited power, there were many years of relative political stability in Pakistan. Elections were held and there were relatively peaceful transfers of power. But the army continued to pull strings from behind. It got tired of Nawaz Sharif's rule, and propped up former cricketer Imran Khan. It is no secret that the election that led to Khan becoming the PM was stage-managed by the army. But then, Imran Khan had different ideas on how to run the nation, and army did not like it.
The Army now wants to be back in charge, and a war with India is best excuse for that.
<h2>Imran Khan is the biggest threat to Munir, and only nationalism can rally all parties&nbsp;</h2>
&nbsp;
Overseas Pakistanis are the hope of Pakistan, but they have traditionally been mostly aligned with Imran Khan. That's the reason why Munir chose to address the overseas Pakistani convention and used the kind of rhetoric not suitable for a man in uniform. Weaning away supporters of Khan is not easy. It is well-known in Pakistan that Khan is among the most ardent critics of Munir. In a letter from jail this February, Khan reportedly criticised Munir on a number of issues: Pakistan's economic uncertainties, the conduct of the last general election that led to Shahbaz Sharif becoming prime minister, among other things.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafales-and-su-30s-lead-indian-air-forces-exercise-aakraman-amid-tensions-with-pakistan-9000497">Rafales and Su-30s lead Indian Air Force's Exercise 'Aakraman' amid tensions with Pakistan. Aakraman means attack</a>
Khan talked about the &ldquo;widening distance between the people and the establishment."
He asked the army chief to reconsider some of the policies of 'the establishment', which is code word for the armed forces controlling practically all aspects of life in Pakistan.
Khan said these policies were 'fomenting resentment' among the public and widening the gap between civilians and the military.&nbsp; Only something unifying can change Pakistani people's attitude towards the Army. A war with India could just be the anecdote.

pahalgam terror attack indo-pak war: Dictatorship emerged in Pakistan after wars with India. Asim Munir may become one. Pakistan South Asia Trending Opinions & Blogs

Pahalgam terror attack can lead to Indo Pak war that will help Army Chief Asim Munir emerge as Pakistan leader: Pakistani politicians, who have had a rather chequered relationship with its military, are now rallying behind its army, with the defence minister saying there could be an 'all-out-war' if India goes for an all-out attack in response to the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22. Such a stance is exactly what the Pakistani Army, and specifically its chief Gen Asim Munir would want, given the current political and economic situation of the South Asian nation. Pakistan desperately needs something that unifies it. A war could be just that. What Pakistani politicians do not realise is that a war with India could only lead to the sidelining of politicians and eventually the rise of dictatorships. Asim Munir, an inspiration for terrorists: Pahalgam attack came exactly a week after Pakistan Army chief said 'Kashmir is our jugular vein' Last time Pakistan went into a war with India, a dictatorship emerged under Pervez Musharraf. This time, Asim Munir may be hoping for a similar turn of events. In all these years, politicians helped the Army get into wars with India. Look at what Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said: “If there is an all-out attack or something like that, then obviously there will be an all-out war.” He was responding to questions from UK-based Sky News on the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 Indian civilians, even as he accused India of 'staging' the attack in Baisaran valley. Asif belongs to the Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's ruling PML- (N) party. Pak Army Chief Asim Munir: Son of imam, 'Islamic scholar', may have an Indo-Pak war to deal with. What is his story? But pause here for a moment, and look at what the former minister from PML-N's arch rival, Imran Khan's PTI party, said. In response to India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty in the wake of the terror attack, Fawad Choudhry wrote on social media: "Pakistan is politically divided but united as a nation. [But] if attacked or threatened by India, all groups—PML-N, PPP, PTI, JUI, and others—will rally together under the Pakistani flag to defend our homeland." This is the perennial problem with Pakistani political-military relationship. The politicians play right into the hands of the military. And it could eventually bring Gen Asim Munir to the centre, both as the leader of its military, and possibly of the nation. Gen Munir wants a return to the Islamic roots of Pakistan, and a war can help that Asim Munir is a military chief steeped in Islamic learning. His father was an imam, and he learned the Quran by heart. He uses Quranic verses in his speeches. He does not miss a chance to share his knowledge of Islam at public fora. It is at one such event, addressing the overseas Pakistanis, that he re-invoked the two-nation theory and the Hindu-Muslim binary as justification for the creation of Pakistan. He exhorted the gathering to tell future generations Pakistan's story. In the same speech, he made invective-laden remarks about Kashmir, describing it as the 'jugular vein' of Pakistan. BSF jawan detained by Pakistan Rangers after accidentally crossing border, family seeks information Kashmir, Islam, Hindu-Muslim identity clash, and India: This is the deadly cocktail that helped Pakistan leaders stay in power. India has always been misused for domestic political gain. The politician-army chief duo of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and General Muhammad Zia-ul Haq did exactly the same. They are behind the 'bleed India through a thousand cuts' doctrine of the Pakistan military: low intensity conflict and insurgencies fomented and backed by Islamabad to make India suffer. Zia eventually oversaw the ouster and hanging of Bhutto, and became Pakistan's military dictator. Pakistan Army is fed up of political instability, and may be tired of pulling strings from behind After Musharraf exited power, there were many years of relative political stability in Pakistan. Elections were held and there were relatively peaceful transfers of power. But the army continued to pull strings from behind. It got tired of Nawaz Sharif's rule, and propped up former cricketer Imran Khan. It is no secret that the election that led to Khan becoming the PM was stage-managed by the army. But then, Imran Khan had different ideas on how to run the nation, and army did not like it. The Army now wants to be back in charge, and a war with India is best excuse for that. Imran Khan is the biggest threat to Munir, and only nationalism can rally all parties Overseas Pakistanis are the hope of Pakistan, but they have traditionally been mostly aligned with Imran Khan. That's the reason why Munir chose to address the overseas Pakistani convention and used the kind of rhetoric not suitable for a man in uniform. Weaning away supporters of Khan is not easy. It is well-known in Pakistan that Khan is among the most ardent critics of Munir. In a letter from jail this February, Khan reportedly criticised Munir on a number of issues: Pakistan's economic uncertainties, the conduct of the last general election that led to Shahbaz Sharif becoming prime minister, among other things. Rafales and Su-30s lead Indian Air Force's Exercise 'Aakraman' amid tensions with Pakistan. Aakraman means attack Khan talked about the “widening distance between the people and the establishment." He asked the army chief to reconsider some of the policies of 'the establishment', which is code word for the armed forces controlling practically all aspects of life in Pakistan. Khan said these policies were 'fomenting resentment' among the public and widening the gap between civilians and the military. Only something unifying can change Pakistani people's attitude towards the Army. A war with India could just be the anecdote.

Asim Munir, Pakistani army chief, probably wants to be like dictator Zia, and politicians are playing into his hands | Reasons, listed

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Saifullah Kasuri in a video statement has denied involvement in the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives on 22 April 2025.
<h2>Saifullah Kasuri claims innocence</h2>
The LeT senior commander claims that he did not instigate the terrorist attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-saifullah-kasuri-suspected-mastermind-of-jk-pahalgam-terror-attack-8992526">Who is Saifullah Kasuri? Suspected mastermind of J&amp;K Pahalgam Terror Attack</a>
Appearing visibly shaken in the footage, Kasuri declared himself innocent, accusing the Indian media of falsely implicating him and alleging a broader conspiracy to derail Pakistan's development.
Watch what he said here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) deputy chief Saifullah Kasuri says these men arent theirs.. Denies role in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PahalgamTerrorAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PahalgamTerrorAttack</a> <a href="https://t.co/kb3hZzHAHW">pic.twitter.com/kb3hZzHAHW</a>
&mdash; Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/nabilajamal_/status/1915249097994649712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
However, Kasuri&rsquo;s denials stand in stark contrast to his prior statements, including a widely circulated threat he issued just before the attack. He had declared that "Kashmir will soon be integrated with Pakistan."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cast-from-the-past-pahalgam-attack-chittisinghpura-horror-monstrous-targeted-killings-in-the-valley-a-us-visit-coincidence-9000875">Cast From The Past: Pahalgam attack, Chittisinghpura horror &mdash; monstrous 'targeted killings' in the Valley, a US visit coincidence</a>
Indian intelligence agencies have identified Kasuri as a key conspirator in the Pahalgam attack and a top strategist for the LeT and its proxy group, The Resistance Front (TRF) &mdash; active in the Kashmir Valley &mdash; which has taken credit for the attack that killed at least 27 people. He is also believed to be a close associate of LeT founder Hafiz Saeed.
<h2>PM Modi's 'punishment beyond imagination' warning</h2>
Kasuri's denial comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 24) issued a fierce warning to the perpetrators and their backers. Speaking at a public rally in Madhubani, Bihar, the Prime Minister said, "Today, from the soil of Bihar, I say to the whole world that India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the earth".
"I want to say in very clear words that the terrorists who carried out this attack and those who conspired in it will receive a punishment bigger than they can imagine," he stressed.

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Saifullah Kasuri's denial comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 24) issued a fierce warning to the perpetrators and their backers.

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Saifullah Kasuri in a video statement has denied involvement in the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives on 22 April 2025. Saifullah Kasuri claims innocence The LeT senior commander claims that he did not instigate the terrorist attack. Also read | Who is Saifullah Kasuri? Suspected mastermind of J&K Pahalgam Terror Attack Appearing visibly shaken in the footage, Kasuri declared himself innocent, accusing the Indian media of falsely implicating him and alleging a broader conspiracy to derail Pakistan's development. Watch what he said here: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) deputy chief Saifullah Kasuri says these men arent theirs.. Denies role in #PahalgamTerrorAttack pic.twitter.com/kb3hZzHAHW — Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) April 24, 2025 However, Kasuri’s denials stand in stark contrast to his prior statements, including a widely circulated threat he issued just before the attack. He had declared that "Kashmir will soon be integrated with Pakistan." Also read | Cast From The Past: Pahalgam attack, Chittisinghpura horror — monstrous 'targeted killings' in the Valley, a US visit coincidence Indian intelligence agencies have identified Kasuri as a key conspirator in the Pahalgam attack and a top strategist for the LeT and its proxy group, The Resistance Front (TRF) — active in the Kashmir Valley — which has taken credit for the attack that killed at least 27 people. He is also believed to be a close associate of LeT founder Hafiz Saeed. PM Modi's 'punishment beyond imagination' warning Kasuri's denial comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 24) issued a fierce warning to the perpetrators and their backers. Speaking at a public rally in Madhubani, Bihar, the Prime Minister said, "Today, from the soil of Bihar, I say to the whole world that India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the earth". "I want to say in very clear words that the terrorists who carried out this attack and those who conspired in it will receive a punishment bigger than they can imagine," he stressed.

LeT commander Saifullah Kasuri denies role in Pahalgam terror attack, claims 'being framed' by Indian media

The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken a major action, cancelling all 17 types of visas for Pakistani citizens. Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to all state Chief Ministers, instructing them to identify and immediately deport Pakistani nationals residing in their states. An official order has been issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, directing the immediate repatriation of Pakistani citizens.
Shah asked the all the chief ministers to inform the Centre about all the Pakistani nationals so that their visas could be cancelled.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-live-india-responds-after-pakistan-army-initiates-firing-at-some-places-on-loc-8999391">Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: India cancels all 17 types of visas for Paksitan citizens</a>
Previously, the Indian government has announced on Wednesday (April 23) that Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC visa exemption scheme (SVES).&nbsp;
Foreign secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC visa exemption scheme (SVES). The Indian government also ordered all the Pakistani nationals, under it SVES visa, to leave India within 48 hours.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-jawan-detained-by-pakistan-rangers-after-accidentally-crossing-border-family-seeks-information-9000648">BSF jawan detained by Pakistan Rangers after accidentally crossing border, family seeks information</a>
<h2>Border closed&nbsp;</h2>
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-neeraj-chopra-statement-on-inviting-pakistan-arshad-nadeem-for-nc-classic-says-after-what-happened-in-pahalgam-8999632" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pahalgam terror attack: Neeraj Chopra breaks silence on inviting Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, says 'after what happened in Pahalgam...'</a>
The Indian government further closed the the Integrated Check Post at Attari with immediate effect. It is the only operational land border crossing between the two countries. After this, the foreign secretary said the Pakistani nationals who have crossed the border with valid endorsements may return through that route before May 1.&nbsp;
<h2>Declaration of 'persona non grata'&nbsp;</h2>
The Indian government further declared the "the defence, military, naval and air advisors in the Pakistani high commission in New Delhi as persona non grata". Misri said these officials have a week to leave the Indian land. Further, India will withdraw its own defence, navy and air advisors from the Indian high commission in Islamabad.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-to-honour-long-term-visas-for-pakistani-hindus-medical-visas-to-remain-valid-till-this-date-8999366">Pahalgam terror attack: India to honour long-term visas for Pakistani Hindus; Medical visas to remain valid till THIS date</a>

World | India News | South Asia | Pakistan | Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to all state Chief Ministers, instructing them to *identify and immediately deport Pakistani nationals residing in their states.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken a major action, cancelling all 17 types of visas for Pakistani citizens. Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to all state Chief Ministers, instructing them to identify and immediately deport Pakistani nationals residing in their states. An official order has been issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, directing the immediate repatriation of Pakistani citizens. Shah asked the all the chief ministers to inform the Centre about all the Pakistani nationals so that their visas could be cancelled. Also read: Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: India cancels all 17 types of visas for Paksitan citizens Previously, the Indian government has announced on Wednesday (April 23) that Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC visa exemption scheme (SVES). Foreign secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC visa exemption scheme (SVES). The Indian government also ordered all the Pakistani nationals, under it SVES visa, to leave India within 48 hours. Also read: BSF jawan detained by Pakistan Rangers after accidentally crossing border, family seeks information Border closed Also read: Pahalgam terror attack: Neeraj Chopra breaks silence on inviting Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, says 'after what happened in Pahalgam...' The Indian government further closed the the Integrated Check Post at Attari with immediate effect. It is the only operational land border crossing between the two countries. After this, the foreign secretary said the Pakistani nationals who have crossed the border with valid endorsements may return through that route before May 1. Declaration of 'persona non grata' The Indian government further declared the "the defence, military, naval and air advisors in the Pakistani high commission in New Delhi as persona non grata". Misri said these officials have a week to leave the Indian land. Further, India will withdraw its own defence, navy and air advisors from the Indian high commission in Islamabad. Also read: Pahalgam terror attack: India to honour long-term visas for Pakistani Hindus; Medical visas to remain valid till THIS date

India cancels all 17 types of visas for Pakistani citizens; Amit Shah directs CMs to identify and deport Pakistanis | Pahalgam terror attack

Pakistan has been a breeding ground for terrorists is an open secret. Time and again top leaders of the country have in some way or the other accepted this fact and expressed their helplessness over the issue. The fact was cemented further when Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif accepted that his country has had a history of backing, supporting and funding terrorist groups for decades.
In an interview with Sky News, Asif on the question of Pakistan&rsquo;s role in funding terrorists said: "We have been doing this dirty work for the United States for about three decades, and West, including Britain."
The statement came amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam district in which 27 tourists were gunned down. The terrorists have been linked to Pakistan-based organisations.
<h2>Imran Khan's admission of Pakistan harbouring "30,000 to 40,000" terrorists</h2>
This is not the first time that a top leader like the defence minister of the country has accepted about Pakistan being a breeding ground for terrorists. In fact, in 2019 the then prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan at an event in the US had admitted that about "30,000 to 40,000" terrorists who had trained and fought in "some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir" were in his country.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-doing-dirty-work-for-the-united-states-for-three-decades-khawaja-asif-on-funding-terrorists-organisations-9000004" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pakistan doing 'dirty work for the US' for three decades: Pak defence minister on funding terrorist groups</a>
While speaking at the US Institute of Peace he had said, "Until we came into power, the governments did not have the political will, because when you talk about militant groups, we still have about 30,000-40,000 armed people who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir."
"There was a watershed in Pakistani politics. In 2014, the Pakistani Taliban slaughtered 150 schoolchildren at Army Public School. All the political parties signed the National Action Plan and we all decided after that, that we will not allow any militant groups to operate inside Pakistan," he added.
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2504_WION_IMRAN_KHAN_BYTE_NEW/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2504_WION_IMRAN_KHAN_BYTE_NEW.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=40&amp;tags=pakistan, terror, wion" title="Pakistan Admits History Of Terror On Its Land, Imran Khan &amp; Defense Minister Reveal On Camera" id="PL_iframe_block-m9wmnrzb-wyq2bp3b-z1ou9stt"></iframe>
<h2>India's accusation</h2>
India has long accused Pakistan of harbouring and aiding terrorist organisations and using them as proxies to carry out terror activities in Jammu &amp; Kashmir and other parts of the country.
The responsibility for the Pahalgam attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.
In response, a series of punitive diplomatic actions, like suspending trade, the Indus Water Treaty and SAARC visas have been taken by the Indian government against Pakistan.

This is not the first time that a top leader like the defence minister of the country has accepted about Pakistan being a breeding ground for terrorists World | India News

Pakistan has been a breeding ground for terrorists is an open secret. Time and again top leaders of the country have in some way or the other accepted this fact and expressed their helplessness over the issue. The fact was cemented further when Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif accepted that his country has had a history of backing, supporting and funding terrorist groups for decades. In an interview with Sky News, Asif on the question of Pakistan’s role in funding terrorists said: "We have been doing this dirty work for the United States for about three decades, and West, including Britain." The statement came amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam district in which 27 tourists were gunned down. The terrorists have been linked to Pakistan-based organisations. Imran Khan's admission of Pakistan harbouring "30,000 to 40,000" terrorists This is not the first time that a top leader like the defence minister of the country has accepted about Pakistan being a breeding ground for terrorists. In fact, in 2019 the then prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan at an event in the US had admitted that about "30,000 to 40,000" terrorists who had trained and fought in "some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir" were in his country. Also Read: Pakistan doing 'dirty work for the US' for three decades: Pak defence minister on funding terrorist groups While speaking at the US Institute of Peace he had said, "Until we came into power, the governments did not have the political will, because when you talk about militant groups, we still have about 30,000-40,000 armed people who have been trained and fought in some part of Afghanistan or Kashmir." "There was a watershed in Pakistani politics. In 2014, the Pakistani Taliban slaughtered 150 schoolchildren at Army Public School. All the political parties signed the National Action Plan and we all decided after that, that we will not allow any militant groups to operate inside Pakistan," he added. India's accusation India has long accused Pakistan of harbouring and aiding terrorist organisations and using them as proxies to carry out terror activities in Jammu & Kashmir and other parts of the country. The responsibility for the Pahalgam attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In response, a series of punitive diplomatic actions, like suspending trade, the Indus Water Treaty and SAARC visas have been taken by the Indian government against Pakistan.

Pakistan's admission of funding terrorists not new, Imran Khan had once accepted of harbouring '40,000' terrorists

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says 'Lashkar-e-Taiba doesn't exist' on their soil and to validate his claims, he adds, 'it's extinct.' This comes after The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) claimed responsibility for the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack in India's Jammu and Kashmir that killed at least 26 tourists on April 22.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9wheaee-l7u3zzch-a6ifxfzy">
Reporter grills Pakistan defence minister about his allegations that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PahalgamTerroristAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PahalgamTerroristAttack</a> was a false flag operation by india.He couldnt provide any evidence to her but said we used to do dirty work for US &amp; UK that's why we have links with terrorists WOW 🙄😂🤦 <a href="https://t.co/thxCOQvugh">pic.twitter.com/thxCOQvugh</a>
&mdash; Avi M 🛸🇮🇳🕉️ (@AvirupM42) <a href="https://twitter.com/AvirupM42/status/1915530158078824528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
In an interview with UK-based news outlet Sky News, Asif was insistent about LeT's status as he blamed India for 'staging Pahalgam attack.'&nbsp;
To counter his claims, the journalist said 'the reason India is blaming Pakistan is because they believe your country's intelligence agencies fund and back these terrorist organisations'. She also validated it with the fact that the US' beliefs are also on the similar lines.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-live-india-responds-after-pakistan-army-initiates-firing-at-some-places-on-loc-8999391">Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: Pak Army starts firing at LoC, Rahul Gandhi reaches Srinagar</a>
Ready to respond, Asif's wavering voice said, "They (India) never came up with any evidence for these incidents that took place in Kashmir. Just to blame Pakistan for something and create a situation for their advantage...that doesn't mean it's Pakistan."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cast-from-the-past-pahalgam-attack-chittisinghpura-horror-monstrous-targeted-killings-in-the-valley-a-us-visit-coincidence-9000875">Cast From The Past: Pahalgam attack, Chittisinghpura horror &mdash; monstrous 'targeted killings' in the Valley, a US visit coincidence</a>
But he did confirm that the country had been associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba in the 'past'. He added, "Lashkar-e-Taiba doesn't exist in Pakistan anymore; it is extinct."
Validating his claims, Asif went on to say, "My dear, if the parent organisation does not exist, how can the offshoot (The Resistance Front) take birth here?" While the defence minister was confidently shrugging off everything and calmly associating it with the country's past. In less than a minute later, he was seen admitting to training terrorists and doing this 'dirty work for the West'.

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says 'Lashkar-e-Taiba doesn't exist' on their soil and to validate his claims, he adds, 'it's extinct.' South Asia, Pakistan

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says 'Lashkar-e-Taiba doesn't exist' on their soil and to validate his claims, he adds, 'it's extinct.' This comes after The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) claimed responsibility for the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack in India's Jammu and Kashmir that killed at least 26 tourists on April 22. Reporter grills Pakistan defence minister about his allegations that #PahalgamTerroristAttack was a false flag operation by india.He couldnt provide any evidence to her but said we used to do dirty work for US & UK that's why we have links with terrorists WOW 🙄😂🤦 pic.twitter.com/thxCOQvugh — Avi M 🛸🇮🇳🕉️ (@AvirupM42) April 24, 2025 In an interview with UK-based news outlet Sky News, Asif was insistent about LeT's status as he blamed India for 'staging Pahalgam attack.' To counter his claims, the journalist said 'the reason India is blaming Pakistan is because they believe your country's intelligence agencies fund and back these terrorist organisations'. She also validated it with the fact that the US' beliefs are also on the similar lines. WATCH | Pahalgam terror attack LIVE: Pak Army starts firing at LoC, Rahul Gandhi reaches Srinagar Ready to respond, Asif's wavering voice said, "They (India) never came up with any evidence for these incidents that took place in Kashmir. Just to blame Pakistan for something and create a situation for their advantage...that doesn't mean it's Pakistan." Also read: Cast From The Past: Pahalgam attack, Chittisinghpura horror — monstrous 'targeted killings' in the Valley, a US visit coincidence But he did confirm that the country had been associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba in the 'past'. He added, "Lashkar-e-Taiba doesn't exist in Pakistan anymore; it is extinct." Validating his claims, Asif went on to say, "My dear, if the parent organisation does not exist, how can the offshoot (The Resistance Front) take birth here?" While the defence minister was confidently shrugging off everything and calmly associating it with the country's past. In less than a minute later, he was seen admitting to training terrorists and doing this 'dirty work for the West'.

'Lashkar is extinct,' claims Pak Defence Minister but acknowledges working with them in 'past'

A protest broke out outside the Diplomatic Enclave in Pakistan&rsquo;s Islamabad following the retaliatory measures taken by India against the terror attack in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pahalgam">Pahalgam</a>.&nbsp;
WION has learned that members of political parties and Hurriyat organisations were present in the demonstrations. Protestors also tried to get into the Indian High Commission.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pakistani-actors-hania-amir-fawad-khan-and-others-condemn-pahalgam-terror-attack-8998392">'Tragedy for all of us': Pakistani actors Hania Amir, Fawad Khan and others condemn Pahalgam terror attack</a>
A clash broke out between the security officials and the protestors, prompting authorities to call for the deployment of more personnel. There are also reports of anti-Indian slogans during the protest.
<h2>India&rsquo;s retaliatory measures</h2>
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced stern measures against Pakistan following the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on Wednesday (Apr 23). The actions taken by India include halting of Indus Waters Treaty, immediate closure of the Wagha Attari border and revoking SAARC Visas of Pakistani nationals.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pakistan-braces-for-economic-fallout-as-india-retaliates-8998403">Pakistan braces for economic fallout as India retaliates</a>
Following these strict measures, Pakistan retaliated with similar diplomatic measures calling the halt of the Indus Waters Treaty an &ldquo;Act of War&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty, and the usurpation of the rights of lower riparian will be considered as an Act of War and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of National Power,&rdquo; Shehbaz Sharif said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bsf-jawan-detained-by-pakistani-rangers-after-inadvertently-crossing-border-meeting-on-to-ensure-his-return-8998003">Pakistan detains BSF jawan after he crossed border inadvertently, meeting underway to ensure his return</a>
It further added that Pakistan shall &ldquo;exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India&rdquo; including but not limited to Simla Agreement in abeyance. In addition to this, Pakistan suspended all trade with India and warned to close the Wagah Border Post, with immediate effect
<h2>Pahalgam terror attack</h2>
On Tuesday afternoon (Apr 22), at least 27 people, mainly tourists, were gunned down by terrorists in Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam in a horrific terror attack. The region is a popular tourist spot and is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Watch | India: Pakistan's defence, navy and air advisers told to go back
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2404_GUEST_4PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2404_GUEST_4PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=442&amp;tags=pahalgam, india, j&amp;K, terror attack" title="India-Pak row: India: Pakistan's defence, navy and air advisers told to go back" id="PL_iframe_block-m9vhu3ti-xum73c92-rsffrekg"></iframe>
The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow outfit of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

WION has learned that members of political parties and Hurriyat organisations were present in the demonstrations. Protestors also tried to get into the Indian High Commission. India News | Pakistan

A protest broke out outside the Diplomatic Enclave in Pakistan’s Islamabad following the retaliatory measures taken by India against the terror attack in Pahalgam. WION has learned that members of political parties and Hurriyat organisations were present in the demonstrations. Protestors also tried to get into the Indian High Commission. Also read | 'Tragedy for all of us': Pakistani actors Hania Amir, Fawad Khan and others condemn Pahalgam terror attack A clash broke out between the security officials and the protestors, prompting authorities to call for the deployment of more personnel. There are also reports of anti-Indian slogans during the protest. India’s retaliatory measures Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced stern measures against Pakistan following the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on Wednesday (Apr 23). The actions taken by India include halting of Indus Waters Treaty, immediate closure of the Wagha Attari border and revoking SAARC Visas of Pakistani nationals. Also read | Pakistan braces for economic fallout as India retaliates Following these strict measures, Pakistan retaliated with similar diplomatic measures calling the halt of the Indus Waters Treaty an “Act of War”. “Any attempt to stop or divert the flow of water belonging to Pakistan as per the Indus Waters Treaty, and the usurpation of the rights of lower riparian will be considered as an Act of War and responded with full force across the complete spectrum of National Power,” Shehbaz Sharif said. Also read | Pakistan detains BSF jawan after he crossed border inadvertently, meeting underway to ensure his return It further added that Pakistan shall “exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India” including but not limited to Simla Agreement in abeyance. In addition to this, Pakistan suspended all trade with India and warned to close the Wagah Border Post, with immediate effect Pahalgam terror attack On Tuesday afternoon (Apr 22), at least 27 people, mainly tourists, were gunned down by terrorists in Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam in a horrific terror attack. The region is a popular tourist spot and is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Watch | India: Pakistan's defence, navy and air advisers told to go back The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow outfit of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Protest breaks out at Indian High Commission in Pakistan following New Delhi’s stern measures

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) saw a dramatic turn of events between New Zealand batter Colin Munro and Pakistan spinner Iftikhar Ahmed. The incident happened during the match between Islamabad United and Multan Sultans on Wednesday (Apr 23) when Munro accused Iftikhar of 'chucking.'
Chasing 169, Islamabad were 103/1 in 9.2 overs when Iftikhar bowled a full off spin delivery to Munro, who was batting at 40 off 22 balls. Immediately after defending the ball, Munro gestures towards Iftikhar with his arm and suggested he was chucking.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-pakistan-cricketers-remain-silent-and-wont-even-condemn-horrific-act-just-like-their-government-8996443" aria-label="Pahalgam terror attack: Pakistan cricketers remain silent, won't even condemn horrific act - just like their government">Pahalgam terror attack: Pakistan cricketers remain silent, won't even condemn horrific act - just like their government</a>
The gesture didn't go down well with the bowler who immediately went to leg umpire to protest. In the meantime, Islamabad skipper Muhammad Rizwan came running towards Munro and the players had heated verbal altercation. The Kiwi was surrounded by Islamabad played and umpire had to intervene to calm things down.
Have a look at the video below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Colin Munro accuses Iftikhar Ahmed of chucking in PSL game. <a href="https://t.co/OujiNbxN19">pic.twitter.com/OujiNbxN19</a>
&mdash; Rohit Sankar (@imRohit_SN) <a href="https://twitter.com/imRohit_SN/status/1915101122894721165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As for the match, Sultans won the toss and elected to bowl bat first in Multan. They had a good opening partnership of 51 runs before Mohammad Nawaz dismissed Yasir Khan on 29 runs.
Rizwan then joined forces with Usman Khan and added 75 runs for the second wicket before Shadab Khan dismissed Rizwan. Multan eventually managed just 168/5 in 20 overs as Usman top scored with 61 off 40 balls.
During the chase, Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed early by Ubaid Shah. Munro and Andries Gous then added 81 runs for the second wicket and took the game away from Sultans. United chased down the target in 17.1 overs and registered their fifth win in as many games.
Sultans, on the other hand, suffered fourth loss in five games and are currently languishing at the bottom of the points table with just two points from one win.

Chasing 169, Islamabad were 103/1 in 9.2 overs when Iftikhar bowled a full off spin delivery to Munro. Immediately after defending the ball, Munro gestured towards Iftikhar and suggested he was chucking. sports cricket Pakistan

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) saw a dramatic turn of events between New Zealand batter Colin Munro and Pakistan spinner Iftikhar Ahmed. The incident happened during the match between Islamabad United and Multan Sultans on Wednesday (Apr 23) when Munro accused Iftikhar of 'chucking.' Chasing 169, Islamabad were 103/1 in 9.2 overs when Iftikhar bowled a full off spin delivery to Munro, who was batting at 40 off 22 balls. Immediately after defending the ball, Munro gestures towards Iftikhar with his arm and suggested he was chucking. Also Read - Pahalgam terror attack: Pakistan cricketers remain silent, won't even condemn horrific act - just like their government The gesture didn't go down well with the bowler who immediately went to leg umpire to protest. In the meantime, Islamabad skipper Muhammad Rizwan came running towards Munro and the players had heated verbal altercation. The Kiwi was surrounded by Islamabad played and umpire had to intervene to calm things down. Have a look at the video below: Colin Munro accuses Iftikhar Ahmed of chucking in PSL game. pic.twitter.com/OujiNbxN19 — Rohit Sankar (@imRohit_SN) April 23, 2025 As for the match, Sultans won the toss and elected to bowl bat first in Multan. They had a good opening partnership of 51 runs before Mohammad Nawaz dismissed Yasir Khan on 29 runs. Rizwan then joined forces with Usman Khan and added 75 runs for the second wicket before Shadab Khan dismissed Rizwan. Multan eventually managed just 168/5 in 20 overs as Usman top scored with 61 off 40 balls. During the chase, Sahibzada Farhan was dismissed early by Ubaid Shah. Munro and Andries Gous then added 81 runs for the second wicket and took the game away from Sultans. United chased down the target in 17.1 overs and registered their fifth win in as many games. Sultans, on the other hand, suffered fourth loss in five games and are currently languishing at the bottom of the points table with just two points from one win.

PSL 2025: WATCH | Pak players surround Kiwi Munro, have verbal altercation in Multan Sultans vs Islamabad United game

Ex-Pakistan pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-amir">Mohammad Amir</a> revealed the reason for announcing his retirement from international cricket, saying that he felt overlooked and felt sidelined post 2024 T20 World Cup.
&ldquo;After the T20 World Cup ended, no one even talked to me. No one told me if I was part of the future plans, &rdquo; he was quoted saying to a TV channel.
&ldquo;A wise person understands the signs &mdash; if you&rsquo;re not in the plans, then you have to think about yourself. That&rsquo;s exactly what I did. I&rsquo;ve made up my mind now &mdash; thank you very much, international cricket,&rdquo; Amir further added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/cricket-psl-2025-teacher-spotted-correcting-papers-during-match-between-peshawar-zalmi-and-karachi-kings-watch-8993522">PSL 2025: Teacher spotted correcting papers during match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings-WATCH</a>
Amir also revealed that he also had to leave a 'county contract' to join the national team preparations for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/t20-world-cup">T20 World Cup</a>.
&ldquo;When I came to play in the World Cup, I left my county contract. Whatever I played in the World Cup, I ended up spending more money myself. My trainer travelled with me, and I bore all those expenses personally. Anyway, that&rsquo;s a separate matter,&rdquo; Amir was quoted.
<h2>'Babar is the best cricketer Pakistan has right now'</h2>
Th left-arm pacer picked up 119 wickets in 36 Test matches, 81 wickets in 61 One Day Internationals, and 71 wickets in 62 T20 Internationals.
Meanwhile, the pacer praised on former Pakistan captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a>, admitting his poor run of form and expressed confidence in his comeback. He also highlighted a flaw in the Babar's batting technique.
&ldquo;Babar is the best cricketer Pakistan has right now &mdash; there&rsquo;s no doubt about it. But he&rsquo;s going through a rough patch, and it&rsquo;s lasted a bit too long. I&rsquo;ve noticed he&rsquo;s been late on the ball lately, which is affecting his shot selection,&rdquo; Amir signed off.

Pakistan, Cricket, Sports: Mohammad Amir also revealed that he also had to leave a 'county contract' to join the national team preparations for the 2024 T20 World Cup

Ex-Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir revealed the reason for announcing his retirement from international cricket, saying that he felt overlooked and felt sidelined post 2024 T20 World Cup. “After the T20 World Cup ended, no one even talked to me. No one told me if I was part of the future plans, ” he was quoted saying to a TV channel. “A wise person understands the signs — if you’re not in the plans, then you have to think about yourself. That’s exactly what I did. I’ve made up my mind now — thank you very much, international cricket,” Amir further added. Also Read: PSL 2025: Teacher spotted correcting papers during match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings-WATCH Amir also revealed that he also had to leave a 'county contract' to join the national team preparations for the T20 World Cup. “When I came to play in the World Cup, I left my county contract. Whatever I played in the World Cup, I ended up spending more money myself. My trainer travelled with me, and I bore all those expenses personally. Anyway, that’s a separate matter,” Amir was quoted. 'Babar is the best cricketer Pakistan has right now' Th left-arm pacer picked up 119 wickets in 36 Test matches, 81 wickets in 61 One Day Internationals, and 71 wickets in 62 T20 Internationals. Meanwhile, the pacer praised on former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, admitting his poor run of form and expressed confidence in his comeback. He also highlighted a flaw in the Babar's batting technique. “Babar is the best cricketer Pakistan has right now — there’s no doubt about it. But he’s going through a rough patch, and it’s lasted a bit too long. I’ve noticed he’s been late on the ball lately, which is affecting his shot selection,” Amir signed off.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir breaks silence on retirement from international cricket

During the ongoing edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-super-league">Pakistan Super League</a> (PSL) 2025, a video has gone viral on social media platforms. The reason? The video shows a teacher supposedly checking examination papers during a match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-a-minute-silence-no-firecrackers-in-mi-vs-srh-ipl-match-today-8992838">Pahalgam terror attack | IPL 2025, MI vs SRH: BCCI announces 'a minute's silence &amp; no firecrackers,' coach Gambhir says 'India will strike'</a>
The teacher was spotted by the cameraman during the 17th over when Peshawar Zalmi were struggling at 117/6. For Zalmi, Alzarri Joseph and Abdul Samad were at the crease. As the camera moved to her, the teacher gave a light smile.
<h2>Watch the video here:</h2>
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Coming to the match, Peshawar Zalmi captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a> found some rhythm of form after poor start to the six-team tournament. Although the right-handed batter scored a 41-ball 46, he failed to hit even one six before being dismissed by spinner Khushdil Shah.
Mohammad Haris along with&nbsp; Alzarri Joseph played somw quickfire innings to pull Zalmi to 147/8 in their 20 overs. Chasing down the target, Karachi Kings lost Tim Seifert in the very first ball of the innings as Luke Wood trapped him in front of the wicket. Captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/david-warner">David Warner</a> held their innings together with a 47-ball 60 before being dismissed in the 17th over of the innings.
<article id="fjp-article">
However, Khushdil Shah, who had earlier taken three wickets, held his nerve to guide Karachi Kings over the line with three balls to spare. Karachi Kings won the match by three wickets.
</article>

Pakistan, Sports, Cricket: The teacher was spotted by the cameraman during the 17th over when Peshawar Zalmi were batting. As the camera moved to her, the teacher smiled

During the ongoing edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, a video has gone viral on social media platforms. The reason? The video shows a teacher supposedly checking examination papers during a match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings. Also Read: Pahalgam terror attack | IPL 2025, MI vs SRH: BCCI announces 'a minute's silence & no firecrackers,' coach Gambhir says 'India will strike' The teacher was spotted by the cameraman during the 17th over when Peshawar Zalmi were struggling at 117/6. For Zalmi, Alzarri Joseph and Abdul Samad were at the crease. As the camera moved to her, the teacher gave a light smile. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🦅🇵🇰رِدا چوہدری (@pct_x_rida) Coming to the match, Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam found some rhythm of form after poor start to the six-team tournament. Although the right-handed batter scored a 41-ball 46, he failed to hit even one six before being dismissed by spinner Khushdil Shah. Mohammad Haris along with Alzarri Joseph played somw quickfire innings to pull Zalmi to 147/8 in their 20 overs. Chasing down the target, Karachi Kings lost Tim Seifert in the very first ball of the innings as Luke Wood trapped him in front of the wicket. Captain David Warner held their innings together with a 47-ball 60 before being dismissed in the 17th over of the innings. However, Khushdil Shah, who had earlier taken three wickets, held his nerve to guide Karachi Kings over the line with three balls to spare. Karachi Kings won the match by three wickets.

PSL 2025: Teacher spotted correcting papers during match between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings-WATCH

More than 80 peacocks have died and hundreds have become ill in Pakistan&rsquo;s rural areas of Tharparkar. Allegedly, the birds fell sick due to a mysterious disease, which became worse in intense heat conditions and a lack of water and food.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-minister-in-pakistan-attacked-during-protest-in-sindh-pm-shehbaz-sharif-vows-action-8982695">Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action</a>
According to the local residents of the areas affected, including Nagarparkar, Islamkot, and Chachro tehsils, the peacocks were showing symptoms of flu, fever, throat inflammation, and even vision loss in some cases. Local cases suggest that the birds are not able to recover following the onset of symptoms.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kulbhushan-jadhav-was-denied-his-right-to-appeal-accepts-pakistan-govt-in-supreme-court-8982138">Kulbhushan Jadhav was denied his 'right to appeal', Pakistan govt tells in Supreme Court</a>
Forest areas were severely impacted in particularly as the birds living there already struggle with increasing temperatures and dehydration during the summer months.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-crime-branch-dismantle-cross-border-drug-syndicate-operating-between-afghanistan-pakistan-and-india-8981394">Delhi Police, Crime Branch dismantle cross-border drug syndicate operating between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India</a>
Peacocks are considered iconic birds of the Thar desert and admired for their vibrant feathers and cultural importance. Their declining health has raised alarm among wildlife conservationists and enthusiasts.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-will-not-travel-to-india-for-2025-womens-odi-world-cup-pcbs-mohsin-naqvi-in-lahore-8980154">Pakistan will not travel to India for 2025 Women&rsquo;s ODI World Cup: PCB&rsquo;s Mohsin Naqvi</a>
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the illness. They have also not announced any formal investigation or emergency response in the affected regions. While local residents are increasingly concerned as the situation continues to get worse.
Watch | Pakistan FM meets Taliban officials amid mass Afghan deportation
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2004_ARJUN_PAK_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2004_ARJUN_PAK_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=139&amp;tags=Pakistan, Taliban, World News, WION" title="Pakistan FM meets Taliban officials amid mass Afghan deportation" id="PL_iframe_block-m9r90sdm-e9ytx24q-qer9lw9q"></iframe>
Mithi and other areas of Tharparkar have been facing intense heat, with temperatures reaching as high as 42 degrees Celsius. Most of Pakistan&rsquo;s Sindh region has been gripped by hot and dry weather, with no expected rainfall soon. The ongoing heatwave conditions have made it challenging for the wildlife in the area.&nbsp;

According to the local residents of the areas affected, including Nagarparkar, Islamkot, and Chachro tehsils, the peacocks were showing symptoms of flu, fever, throat inflammation, and even vision loss in some cases. Pakistan | South Asia

More than 80 peacocks have died and hundreds have become ill in Pakistan’s rural areas of Tharparkar. Allegedly, the birds fell sick due to a mysterious disease, which became worse in intense heat conditions and a lack of water and food. Also read | Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action According to the local residents of the areas affected, including Nagarparkar, Islamkot, and Chachro tehsils, the peacocks were showing symptoms of flu, fever, throat inflammation, and even vision loss in some cases. Local cases suggest that the birds are not able to recover following the onset of symptoms. Also read | Kulbhushan Jadhav was denied his 'right to appeal', Pakistan govt tells in Supreme Court Forest areas were severely impacted in particularly as the birds living there already struggle with increasing temperatures and dehydration during the summer months. Also read | Delhi Police, Crime Branch dismantle cross-border drug syndicate operating between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India Peacocks are considered iconic birds of the Thar desert and admired for their vibrant feathers and cultural importance. Their declining health has raised alarm among wildlife conservationists and enthusiasts. Also read | Pakistan will not travel to India for 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup: PCB’s Mohsin Naqvi Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the illness. They have also not announced any formal investigation or emergency response in the affected regions. While local residents are increasingly concerned as the situation continues to get worse. Watch | Pakistan FM meets Taliban officials amid mass Afghan deportation Mithi and other areas of Tharparkar have been facing intense heat, with temperatures reaching as high as 42 degrees Celsius. Most of Pakistan’s Sindh region has been gripped by hot and dry weather, with no expected rainfall soon. The ongoing heatwave conditions have made it challenging for the wildlife in the area.

Over 80 peacocks die in Pakistan’s Tharparkar following a mysterious illness amid heat and lack of water

Pakistan is planning to legalise cryptocurrency trading, to further attract international investment and integrate blockchain technology into its economy, newly appointed CEO of Pakistan Crypto Council Bilal bin Saqib said.&nbsp;
This comes at a crucial time when the country's economy is dealing with massive debt.
&ldquo;The country aims to devise a clear regulatory framework for governing digital-asset activities to boost the local ecosystem," Saqib told Bloomberg TV in an interview.
Stressing that Pakistan is no longer standing idly by, Saqib said, "We hope to attract international investment because Pakistan is a low-cost, high-growth market with 60% of the population under 30 years old."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-tallest-man-naseer-soomro-dies-after-prolonged-illness-8868282">Who was Naseer Soomro? Pakistan&rsquo;s tallest man dies after prolonged illness</a>
He added that we have a local workforce ready to build Web3.&nbsp;
Following the US president's footsteps, Saqib said, "Trump is making cryptocurrency a national priority, and every country, including Pakistan, will have to follow suit."
Pakistan's central bank has been warning against cryptocurrency for years now, citing concerns over fraud and money laundering.&nbsp;
However, Saqib highlighted that with Pakistan ranking ninth globally in crypto adoption, it has become clear that the demand for digital assets is too large to ignore.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/instead-of-spreading-lies-vacate-our-territory-india-blasts-pakistan-for-its-remarks-on-jammu-and-kashmir-8866539">&lsquo;Instead of spreading lies, vacate our territory&rsquo;: India blasts Pakistan for its remarks on Jammu and Kashmir</a>
Currently, millions of crypto users are already active in the country, Saqib said, adding that this move could position Pakistan as a rising player in the global blockchain and Web3 ecosystem.&nbsp;
<h2>Why Pakistan wants to legalise crypto trading</h2>
Several factors led to the country's decision to make such a major shift in policy towards crypto legalisation, Saqib stressed.
An estimated 15-20 million Pakistanis are already trading digital assets, highlighting significant local adoption.
Additionally, global trends, with countries like the US and UAE embracing crypto-friendly policies, put pressure on Pakistan to stay competitive and avoid being left behind.
Moreover, there is a potential for economic growth, as a regulated crypto sector could attract foreign investment and foster technological innovation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pakistans-7-billion-imf-bailout-review-due-8760117">Pakistan's $7 billion IMF bailout review due</a>
<h2>Pakistan's debt-ridden situation</h2>
Pakistan is indebted with more than 20 loans which it took from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) since 1958, with the latest being approved in September 2024 for $7 billion.&nbsp;
The country stands as the fifth-largest debtor to the IMF. During its approval, Pakistan assured the global lending organisation, that it would be its last loan.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imfs-global-economic-outlook-global-growth-to-reach-33-in-2025-8631520">IMF's global economic outlook: Global growth to reach 3.3% in 2025</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, south asia: Pakistan's central bank has been warning against cryptocurrency for years now, citing concerns over fraud and money laundering.

Pakistan is planning to legalise cryptocurrency trading, to further attract international investment and integrate blockchain technology into its economy, newly appointed CEO of Pakistan Crypto Council Bilal bin Saqib said. This comes at a crucial time when the country's economy is dealing with massive debt. “The country aims to devise a clear regulatory framework for governing digital-asset activities to boost the local ecosystem," Saqib told Bloomberg TV in an interview. Stressing that Pakistan is no longer standing idly by, Saqib said, "We hope to attract international investment because Pakistan is a low-cost, high-growth market with 60% of the population under 30 years old." Also read: Who was Naseer Soomro? Pakistan’s tallest man dies after prolonged illness He added that we have a local workforce ready to build Web3. Following the US president's footsteps, Saqib said, "Trump is making cryptocurrency a national priority, and every country, including Pakistan, will have to follow suit." Pakistan's central bank has been warning against cryptocurrency for years now, citing concerns over fraud and money laundering. However, Saqib highlighted that with Pakistan ranking ninth globally in crypto adoption, it has become clear that the demand for digital assets is too large to ignore. Also read: ‘Instead of spreading lies, vacate our territory’: India blasts Pakistan for its remarks on Jammu and Kashmir Currently, millions of crypto users are already active in the country, Saqib said, adding that this move could position Pakistan as a rising player in the global blockchain and Web3 ecosystem. Why Pakistan wants to legalise crypto trading Several factors led to the country's decision to make such a major shift in policy towards crypto legalisation, Saqib stressed. An estimated 15-20 million Pakistanis are already trading digital assets, highlighting significant local adoption. Additionally, global trends, with countries like the US and UAE embracing crypto-friendly policies, put pressure on Pakistan to stay competitive and avoid being left behind. Moreover, there is a potential for economic growth, as a regulated crypto sector could attract foreign investment and foster technological innovation. Also read: Pakistan's $7 billion IMF bailout review due Pakistan's debt-ridden situation Pakistan is indebted with more than 20 loans which it took from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) since 1958, with the latest being approved in September 2024 for $7 billion. The country stands as the fifth-largest debtor to the IMF. During its approval, Pakistan assured the global lending organisation, that it would be its last loan. Also read: IMF's global economic outlook: Global growth to reach 3.3% in 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

Heavily indebted Pakistan seeks to legalise cryptocurrency to attract global investment

Three universities in Pakistan's Balochistan province have indefinitely suspended on-campus classes and asked students to attend virtual classes apparently due to security reasons, amid a surge in terror attacks in the area, according to media reports.
The University of Balochistan, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University and the University of Turbat decided this after consultation with deans and heads of the academic departments, The Express Tribune newspaper reported.
The development comes in the wake of a series of deadly terror attacks in the province.
Terrorists last week hijacked the Jaffar Express near Sibi. Twenty-six hostages, including 18 security personnel, lost their lives in the attack.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-tallest-man-naseer-soomro-dies-after-prolonged-illness-8868282">Who was Naseer Soomro? Pakistan&rsquo;s tallest man dies after prolonged illness</a>
Since then, multiple attacks have taken place across Balochistan.
Sources said the three varsities moved classes online after recent attacks and security threats.
However, the three universities offered different reasons for the suspension of on-campus academic activities.
A notification issued by the University of Balochistan said a meeting was convened with the deans and sectional heads, which decided that all campuses would switch to virtual learning until further orders. It offered no reason for the decision.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/instead-of-spreading-lies-vacate-our-territory-india-blasts-pakistan-for-its-remarks-on-jammu-and-kashmir-8866539">&lsquo;Instead of spreading lies, vacate our territory&rsquo;: India blasts Pakistan for its remarks on Jammu and Kashmir</a>
University of Balochistan Vice Chancellor Zahoor Ahmad Bazai told Dawn.com that classes have been moved online as students from remote areas were unable to reach campuses due to protests on national highways.
&ldquo;As soon as the issue of sit-ins and closure on national highways is resolved, the University of Balochistan will resume its work in normal conditions,&rdquo; Bazai told the Dawn newspaper.
The Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University also issued a notification announcing a similar decision. It said students will attend online classes during Ramzan.
A statement issued by the University of Trubat after a meeting chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Gul Hasan said in light of the &ldquo;prevailing situation&rdquo;, the meeting decided to suspend on-campus academic activities and classes from Tuesday.
It added that the meeting discussed and reviewed academic and administrative matters, along with the ongoing &ldquo;illegal occupation and blockade&rdquo; of the university&rsquo;s administrative block by a group of students.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/didnt-eat-drank-water-from-trains-toilet-pakistans-jaffar-express-hostages-tell-terrifying-tale-8849015">Didn't eat, drank water from train's toilet: Pakistan's Jaffar Express hostages tell terrifying tale</a>
The participants decided to stop the entry of outsiders to protect the university&rsquo;s assets, as well as the lives of employees and students residing on the premises. The statement asked the students to vacate hostel rooms within two days.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

Pakistan, South asia: A notification issued by the University of Balochistan said that all campuses would switch to virtual learning until further orders.

Three universities in Pakistan's Balochistan province have indefinitely suspended on-campus classes and asked students to attend virtual classes apparently due to security reasons, amid a surge in terror attacks in the area, according to media reports. The University of Balochistan, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University and the University of Turbat decided this after consultation with deans and heads of the academic departments, The Express Tribune newspaper reported. The development comes in the wake of a series of deadly terror attacks in the province. Terrorists last week hijacked the Jaffar Express near Sibi. Twenty-six hostages, including 18 security personnel, lost their lives in the attack. Also read: Who was Naseer Soomro? Pakistan’s tallest man dies after prolonged illness Since then, multiple attacks have taken place across Balochistan. Sources said the three varsities moved classes online after recent attacks and security threats. However, the three universities offered different reasons for the suspension of on-campus academic activities. A notification issued by the University of Balochistan said a meeting was convened with the deans and sectional heads, which decided that all campuses would switch to virtual learning until further orders. It offered no reason for the decision. Also read: ‘Instead of spreading lies, vacate our territory’: India blasts Pakistan for its remarks on Jammu and Kashmir University of Balochistan Vice Chancellor Zahoor Ahmad Bazai told Dawn.com that classes have been moved online as students from remote areas were unable to reach campuses due to protests on national highways. “As soon as the issue of sit-ins and closure on national highways is resolved, the University of Balochistan will resume its work in normal conditions,” Bazai told the Dawn newspaper. The Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University also issued a notification announcing a similar decision. It said students will attend online classes during Ramzan. A statement issued by the University of Trubat after a meeting chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Gul Hasan said in light of the “prevailing situation”, the meeting decided to suspend on-campus academic activities and classes from Tuesday. It added that the meeting discussed and reviewed academic and administrative matters, along with the ongoing “illegal occupation and blockade” of the university’s administrative block by a group of students. Also read: Didn't eat, drank water from train's toilet: Pakistan's Jaffar Express hostages tell terrifying tale The participants decided to stop the entry of outsiders to protect the university’s assets, as well as the lives of employees and students residing on the premises. The statement asked the students to vacate hostel rooms within two days. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Balochistan universities suspend on-campus classes amid terror attacks, shifts to virtual mode

A day after the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express, holding over 450 passengers hostages, the Pakistan authorities confirmed on Wednesday (March 12) that they have concluded the operation and all 33 Baloch militants have been killed.
Pak Military Spokesperson said that 21 civilians have been killed, while four Frontier Corps personnel also lost their lives during the operation.&nbsp;
However, the details of the casualties are still undisclosed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-train-hijack-jaffar-express-live-updates-ground-reporting-8845428">Pakistan train hijack Live: All hostages freed, 28 soldiers killed in Jaffar Express seige</a>
Jaffar Express train was attacked and taken hostage at Bolan Pass in southwest Balochistan province on Tuesday. Separatist militants bombed part of a railway track and stormed the train with more than 450 passengers on board.&nbsp;
Later, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed the responsibility.&nbsp;
The hostages were released through rescue in stages. Around 100 passengers were rescued yesterday evening, Pak Military Spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif said.&nbsp;
The militants were using the passengers as human shields.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-are-bla-everything-you-need-to-know-about-baloch-militant-group-that-hijacked-pakistani-train-8847668">Who are Baloch Liberation Army? All you need to know about militant group that hijacked Pakistani train</a>
However, after a successful concluding operation, the Pakistan authorities have rescued 346 passengers out of 440 who were on the train yesterday.&nbsp;
<h2>What were the militants demanding?</h2>
The BLA gave a 48-hour deadline on Tuesday, saying that they would execute the hostages if Baloch political prisoners, activists and missing persons abducted by the Pakistani military are not freed.
This marks the first such large-scale action taken by the Baloch militant group.&nbsp;
Pakistan&rsquo;s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, saying security officials were &ldquo;repelling&rdquo; the militants.&nbsp;
Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif called the hijacking of the Jaffar Express a "cowardly act" which cannot sabotage the peace and order of Pakistan.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-train-hijack-baloch-group-kills-20-military-personnel-gives-48-hour-deadline-as-it-hold-182-hostages-8844514">Pakistan train hijack: Baloch group kills 20 military personnel, gives 48-hour deadline as it holds 182 hostages</a>
"Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives in the terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express. Such cowardly acts cannot sabotage the peace and order of Pakistan. My sympathies are with the families of the martyrs in this hour of grief. May Allah Almighty elevate their ranks and grant speedy recovery to the injured. Ameen," he wrote on X.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi called the militants "beasts" for targeting innocent passengers as he condemned the attack.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-train-hijack-104-hostages-rescued-militant-group-bla-claims-responsibility-8845037">Pakistan Train Hijack: 104 hostages rescued, militant group BLA claims responsibility</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, south asia: Jaffar Express train was attacked and taken hostage at Bolan Pass in southwest Balochistan province on Tuesday. The militants bombed part of a railway track

A day after the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express, holding over 450 passengers hostages, the Pakistan authorities confirmed on Wednesday (March 12) that they have concluded the operation and all 33 Baloch militants have been killed. Pak Military Spokesperson said that 21 civilians have been killed, while four Frontier Corps personnel also lost their lives during the operation. However, the details of the casualties are still undisclosed. Also read: Pakistan train hijack Live: All hostages freed, 28 soldiers killed in Jaffar Express seige Jaffar Express train was attacked and taken hostage at Bolan Pass in southwest Balochistan province on Tuesday. Separatist militants bombed part of a railway track and stormed the train with more than 450 passengers on board. Later, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed the responsibility. The hostages were released through rescue in stages. Around 100 passengers were rescued yesterday evening, Pak Military Spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif said. The militants were using the passengers as human shields. Also read: Who are Baloch Liberation Army? All you need to know about militant group that hijacked Pakistani train However, after a successful concluding operation, the Pakistan authorities have rescued 346 passengers out of 440 who were on the train yesterday. What were the militants demanding? The BLA gave a 48-hour deadline on Tuesday, saying that they would execute the hostages if Baloch political prisoners, activists and missing persons abducted by the Pakistani military are not freed. This marks the first such large-scale action taken by the Baloch militant group. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, saying security officials were “repelling” the militants. Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif called the hijacking of the Jaffar Express a "cowardly act" which cannot sabotage the peace and order of Pakistan. Also read: Pakistan train hijack: Baloch group kills 20 military personnel, gives 48-hour deadline as it holds 182 hostages "Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives in the terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express. Such cowardly acts cannot sabotage the peace and order of Pakistan. My sympathies are with the families of the martyrs in this hour of grief. May Allah Almighty elevate their ranks and grant speedy recovery to the injured. Ameen," he wrote on X. Meanwhile, Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi called the militants "beasts" for targeting innocent passengers as he condemned the attack. Also read: Pakistan Train Hijack: 104 hostages rescued, militant group BLA claims responsibility (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Jaffar Express rescue operation completed: All BLA hijackers neutralised, 21 civilians killed

A passenger train carrying hundreds of people was hijacked by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Tuesday (March 11). The BLA later claimed that the gunmen were holding 182 passengers as hostages and had killed 20 military personnel, according to ANI.&nbsp;
The gunmen opened fire on the Jaffar Express and threatened to execute all hostages if security forces didn't retreat.&nbsp;
Following the attack, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned terrorist organisation, claimed responsibility while claiming to have hijacked the train.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Pakistan-firing-at-jaffer-express-in-balochistan-several-passengers-injured-bla-claims-train-hijack-8842982">Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train</a>
"After capturing the Jaffar Express, the fighters of the Baloch Liberation Army have taken 182 hostages who have been in our custody for the past six hours. During this operation, an additional eight Pakistani military personnel were eliminated, bringing the total number of enemy casualties to over 20," the BLA said in its statement.
AK Shaheen, the Media Coordinator for Sibbi District said that the driver of the train has been killed in the firing, while multiple people have been injured.
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<h2>What does BLA want?</h2>
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants have set a 48-hour deadline, seeking the "immediate and unconditional release of Baloch political prisoners, forcibly disappeared persons and national resistance activists", in exchange for the hostages.
The BLA further said that they are confronting the Pakistani Air Force using anti-aircraft artillery.&nbsp;
"Throughout the ongoing operation, intense confrontations have taken place with the Pakistani Air Force, with our fighters using anti-aircraft artillery and inflicting severe losses on the enemy," the BLA said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-identify-kill-7-punjabi-travellers-in-pakistan-8734995">Gunmen in Balochistan single out 7 bus travellers from Pakistan's Punajb and kill them</a>
The militant outfit further noted that not a single BLA fighter has been injured or killed.&nbsp;
"Currently, all hostages are in the custody of the BLA's Fidayeen unit, Majeed Brigade. Clear instructions have been issued to the Majeed Brigade: if the Pakistani military attempts to approach, all hostages will be executed and the Fidayeen will continue their resistance until martyrdom without retreating," the statement concluded.
Following this, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation, Dawn reported, citing government spokesperson Shahid Rind.
A massive counter-operation is underway to secure the hostages. The Pakistan Army has also rushed a relief train with reinforcements of soldiers and doctors to the incident spot, according to sources.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-police-arrest-10-pakistani-nationals-for-promoting-terrorism-and-extremism-8838416">Spanish Police arrest 10 Pakistani nationals for promoting terrorism and extremism</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, south asia: Following this, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation.

A passenger train carrying hundreds of people was hijacked by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Tuesday (March 11). The BLA later claimed that the gunmen were holding 182 passengers as hostages and had killed 20 military personnel, according to ANI. The gunmen opened fire on the Jaffar Express and threatened to execute all hostages if security forces didn't retreat. Following the attack, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned terrorist organisation, claimed responsibility while claiming to have hijacked the train. Also read: Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train "After capturing the Jaffar Express, the fighters of the Baloch Liberation Army have taken 182 hostages who have been in our custody for the past six hours. During this operation, an additional eight Pakistani military personnel were eliminated, bringing the total number of enemy casualties to over 20," the BLA said in its statement. AK Shaheen, the Media Coordinator for Sibbi District said that the driver of the train has been killed in the firing, while multiple people have been injured. Also read: Beijing’s secret war: Is China weaponising Pakistan and Bangladesh? What does BLA want? The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants have set a 48-hour deadline, seeking the "immediate and unconditional release of Baloch political prisoners, forcibly disappeared persons and national resistance activists", in exchange for the hostages. The BLA further said that they are confronting the Pakistani Air Force using anti-aircraft artillery. "Throughout the ongoing operation, intense confrontations have taken place with the Pakistani Air Force, with our fighters using anti-aircraft artillery and inflicting severe losses on the enemy," the BLA said. Also read: Gunmen in Balochistan single out 7 bus travellers from Pakistan's Punajb and kill them The militant outfit further noted that not a single BLA fighter has been injured or killed. "Currently, all hostages are in the custody of the BLA's Fidayeen unit, Majeed Brigade. Clear instructions have been issued to the Majeed Brigade: if the Pakistani military attempts to approach, all hostages will be executed and the Fidayeen will continue their resistance until martyrdom without retreating," the statement concluded. Following this, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation, Dawn reported, citing government spokesperson Shahid Rind. A massive counter-operation is underway to secure the hostages. The Pakistan Army has also rushed a relief train with reinforcements of soldiers and doctors to the incident spot, according to sources. Also read: Spanish Police arrest 10 Pakistani nationals for promoting terrorism and extremism (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan train hijack: Baloch group kills 20 military personnel, gives 48-hour deadline as it holds 182 hostages

Pakistan's interior ministry on Friday (March 7) asked all "illegal foreigners" and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-strokes-trump-hints-at-final-moments-with-iran-after-his-letter-to-khamenei-gets-lost-in-mail-8832335">Afghan</a> Citizen Card holders to leave the country by March 31. Ministry said that they would otherwise be deported from April 1 if they failed to comply with the deadline.
Islamabad has previously blamed militant attacks and crimes on undocumented Afghan immigrants, who form the largest portion of migrants in the country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-pakistani-and-afghans-be-banned-from-entering-us-under-trumps-new-ban-8828693">Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US?</a>
There are about 800,000 ACC (Afghan Citizenship Card) holders in Pakistan, according to UN data. Meanwhile, around 1.3 million are formally registered with the Pakistan government and hold a separate Proof of Residence card. The ministry did not specify how people with Proof of Residence will be affected under the new guidelines.
As per the United Nations, over 800,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan since the repatriation drive began and that in total Pakistan hosted around 2.8 million Afghan refugees.
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Foreigners will be treated with utmost respect during the repatriation process, the Ministry of Interior said. It added that food and health care arrangements have been made for the returnees.
Ministry of Interior statement said that Pakistan has been a gracious host to Afghan refugees and it is fulfilling its promises and responsibilities as a responsible state.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/suicide-blast-at-pakistani-mosque-kills-three-injures-jui-s-chief-hamidul-haq-haqqani-8765150">Suicide blast at Pakistani mosque kills five including JUI-S chief Hamid Ul Haq Haqqani</a>
"It is reiterated that individuals staying in Pakistan will have to fulfil all legal formalities," the country's interior ministry said in a statement.
(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia: There are about 800,000 ACC (Afghan Citizenship Card) holders in Pakistan, according to UN data. Meanwhile, around 1.3 million are formally registered with the Pakistan government and hold a separate Proof of Residence card.

Pakistan's interior ministry on Friday (March 7) asked all "illegal foreigners" and Afghan Citizen Card holders to leave the country by March 31. Ministry said that they would otherwise be deported from April 1 if they failed to comply with the deadline. Islamabad has previously blamed militant attacks and crimes on undocumented Afghan immigrants, who form the largest portion of migrants in the country. Also read: Trump travel ban: Will Pakistanis and Afghans be barred from entering US? There are about 800,000 ACC (Afghan Citizenship Card) holders in Pakistan, according to UN data. Meanwhile, around 1.3 million are formally registered with the Pakistan government and hold a separate Proof of Residence card. The ministry did not specify how people with Proof of Residence will be affected under the new guidelines. As per the United Nations, over 800,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan since the repatriation drive began and that in total Pakistan hosted around 2.8 million Afghan refugees. Also read: Trump speech: US president praises Pakistan for arrest of alleged plotter of 2021 Kabul airport attack Foreigners will be treated with utmost respect during the repatriation process, the Ministry of Interior said. It added that food and health care arrangements have been made for the returnees. Ministry of Interior statement said that Pakistan has been a gracious host to Afghan refugees and it is fulfilling its promises and responsibilities as a responsible state. Also read: Suicide blast at Pakistani mosque kills five including JUI-S chief Hamid Ul Haq Haqqani "It is reiterated that individuals staying in Pakistan will have to fulfil all legal formalities," the country's interior ministry said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Leave or be deported: Pakistan asks Afghan Citizen Card holders, illegal foreigners to leave by March 31

At least five people lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries in a suspected suicide bombing at Darul Uloom Haqqania in Pakistan. Among the deceased was Maulana <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/suicide-blast-at-pakistani-mosque-kills-three-injures-jui-s-chief-hamidul-haq-haqqani-8765150">Hamid Ul Haq Haqqani</a>, the leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Sami (JUI-S).
"The tragic incident of the blast in the mosque cannot be condemned enough. The enemy country is engaged in a nefarious conspiracy to create instability. With the nation&rsquo;s support, we will foil every conspiracy of the enemy. We stand with the families of the martyrs and the injured," Pakistan's interior ministry posted on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prime-minister-will-personally-take-notice-pakistans-early-champions-trophy-exit-to-be-raised-in-parliament-8763012">&lsquo;Prime minister will personally take notice&rsquo;: Pakistan&rsquo;s early Champions Trophy exit to be &lsquo;raised in parliament&rsquo;</a>
"Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi's prayer for the speedy recovery of the injured &nbsp; Deep sorrow has been felt over the martyrdom of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi pays tribute to the religious services of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Shaheed.&nbsp;They equally share in the grief of the bereaved family and devotees of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Shaheed," the statement added.
The explosion took place in the Akora Khattak area of Nowshera district, located in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. It happened during Friday prayer timings at the mosque within the madrasa's compound.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/what-is-the-pakistan-democracy-act-us-bill-targeting-pakistans-military-over-political-crackdowns-8762410" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">What is the Pakistan Democracy Act? US bill targeting Pakistan&rsquo;s military over political crackdowns</a>
According to local media, Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, who is the son of the late JUI-S leader Maulana Samiul Haq Haqqani passed away. Reports indicate that he was in the front row offering Friday prayers when the explosion occurred. He was the apparent target of the attack.
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, who is the son of the late JUI-S leader Maulana Samiul Haq Haqqani, suffered critical injuries in the blast. South Asia world

At least five people lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries in a suspected suicide bombing at Darul Uloom Haqqania in Pakistan. Among the deceased was Maulana Hamid Ul Haq Haqqani, the leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Sami (JUI-S). "The tragic incident of the blast in the mosque cannot be condemned enough. The enemy country is engaged in a nefarious conspiracy to create instability. With the nation’s support, we will foil every conspiracy of the enemy. We stand with the families of the martyrs and the injured," Pakistan's interior ministry posted on X. Also read: ‘Prime minister will personally take notice’: Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit to be ‘raised in parliament’ "Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi's prayer for the speedy recovery of the injured Deep sorrow has been felt over the martyrdom of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi pays tribute to the religious services of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Shaheed. They equally share in the grief of the bereaved family and devotees of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Shaheed," the statement added. The explosion took place in the Akora Khattak area of Nowshera district, located in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. It happened during Friday prayer timings at the mosque within the madrasa's compound. Also read: What is the Pakistan Democracy Act? US bill targeting Pakistan’s military over political crackdowns According to local media, Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, who is the son of the late JUI-S leader Maulana Samiul Haq Haqqani passed away. Reports indicate that he was in the front row offering Friday prayers when the explosion occurred. He was the apparent target of the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Suicide blast at Pakistani mosque kills five including JUI-S chief Hamid Ul Haq Haqqani

Pakistani senators are calling for an apology from billionaire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/elon-musk" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk</a>, accusing him of spreading "anti-Pakistan propaganda" as he seeks regulatory approval for his Starlink internet service in the country.
Musk's Starlink has applied for a licence to operate in Pakistan, but clearance is pending. A senate committee on information technology and telecommunications met to discuss the application, but several senators condemned Musk's recent comments on his social media platform X, denouncing them as "anti-Pakistani propaganda".
"It was said that approval should be given on condition of his apology," Committee chair Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan Khan told AFP.
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"We are not saying it should be a pre-condition but it was a part of the discussion and we can only give our recommendations to the government," she added.
Musk has allegedly claimed in many of his social media posts that Pakistani men were responsible for grooming gangs in England. Earlier an Indian MP Priyanka Chaturvedi in a post on X said, "They aren't ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?"
Musk responded to the post in agreement writing, "True".
<h2>UK launches fresh probe into grooming gang scandal</h2>
The UK government has announced a fresh investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, after a public feud between Musk and UK Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/keir-starmer" rel="dofollow">Keir Starmer</a> over the same. Reacting to the announcement, Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation."&nbsp;
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Interior Minister Yvette Cooper announcing the fresh probes said, &ldquo;As we have seen, effective local inquiries can delve into far more local detail and deliver more locally relevant answers, and change, than a lengthy nationwide inquiry can provide.&rdquo;
The grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns.
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, South Asia: A senate committee on information technology and telecommunications met to discuss the application, but several senators condemned Musk's recent comments on his social media platform X, denouncing them as "anti-Pakistani propaganda".

Pakistani senators are calling for an apology from billionaire Elon Musk, accusing him of spreading "anti-Pakistan propaganda" as he seeks regulatory approval for his Starlink internet service in the country. Musk's Starlink has applied for a licence to operate in Pakistan, but clearance is pending. A senate committee on information technology and telecommunications met to discuss the application, but several senators condemned Musk's recent comments on his social media platform X, denouncing them as "anti-Pakistani propaganda". "It was said that approval should be given on condition of his apology," Committee chair Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan Khan told AFP. Also read: LinkedIn is sharing users data with third parties to train AI: US lawsuit alleges "We are not saying it should be a pre-condition but it was a part of the discussion and we can only give our recommendations to the government," she added. Musk has allegedly claimed in many of his social media posts that Pakistani men were responsible for grooming gangs in England. Earlier an Indian MP Priyanka Chaturvedi in a post on X said, "They aren't ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?" Musk responded to the post in agreement writing, "True". UK launches fresh probe into grooming gang scandal The UK government has announced a fresh investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, after a public feud between Musk and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the same. Reacting to the announcement, Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation." Also read: Donald Trump's cryptic warning to Biden: 'Should've given himself a pardon' Interior Minister Yvette Cooper announcing the fresh probes said, “As we have seen, effective local inquiries can delve into far more local detail and deliver more locally relevant answers, and change, than a lengthy nationwide inquiry can provide.” The grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistani lawmakers demand 'apology' from Elon Musk before Starlink licence approval: Report

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an investigation after the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) published an advertisement about its trip to Paris which evoked imagery of the 9/11 attacks.
According to a report by The Guardian early Thursday (Jan 16), Pakistani Minister Ishaq Dar called the PIA's advertisement "stupidity" and confirmed that PM Sharif has directed a probe into the scandal.
&ldquo;The prime minister has directed [authorities] to investigate who conceived this ad,&rdquo; Minister Dar said.
<h2>A look at the controversial advertisment</h2>
A few days back, the PIA shared a post on X that it was resuming flights from Islamabad to Paris from January 10.
Though the post just meant a travel route update, the photo accompanying the details evoked massive controversy.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/info-or-warning-pakistan-international-airlines-eiffel-tower-ad-draws-911-comparisons-8608894" rel="dofollow">'Info or warning?': Pakistan International Airlines' Eiffel Tower ad draws 9/11 comparisons</a>
The photo depicted a PIA aircraft headed towards the Eiffel Tower with the tagline &ldquo;Paris, we&rsquo;re coming today.&rdquo;
Users on X were quick to criticise the image, saying it resembled the attacks of September 11, 2001, when planes struck the Twin Towers in New York.
The advertisement has still not been taken down by the PIA.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/qUoNCyL385">pic.twitter.com/qUoNCyL385</a>
&mdash; PIA (@Official_PIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Official_PIA/status/1877555588533485884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Omar Quraishi, a former political media adviser, said on X that he was &ldquo;truly speechless&rdquo; that the advert had been approved. &ldquo;Did the airline management not vet this?&rdquo; he said.
<h2>Not the first time PIA has made headlines</h2>
This was not the first time that the PIA has made headlines. Recently, the airline was banned by the European Union (EU) for over four years after it emerged that nearly a third of its pilots had cheated in their exams and failed to follow safety procedures.&nbsp;
In 2017, the company attracted scandal after PIA staff members sacrificed a goat on the tarmac for good luck. &nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Pakistan | South Asia: A few days back, the PIA shared a post on X that it was resuming flights from Islamabad to Paris on January 10. The photo accompanying the post triggered massive backlash. 

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an investigation after the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) published an advertisement about its trip to Paris which evoked imagery of the 9/11 attacks. According to a report by The Guardian early Thursday (Jan 16), Pakistani Minister Ishaq Dar called the PIA's advertisement "stupidity" and confirmed that PM Sharif has directed a probe into the scandal. “The prime minister has directed [authorities] to investigate who conceived this ad,” Minister Dar said. A look at the controversial advertisment A few days back, the PIA shared a post on X that it was resuming flights from Islamabad to Paris from January 10. Though the post just meant a travel route update, the photo accompanying the details evoked massive controversy. Also read | 'Info or warning?': Pakistan International Airlines' Eiffel Tower ad draws 9/11 comparisons The photo depicted a PIA aircraft headed towards the Eiffel Tower with the tagline “Paris, we’re coming today.” Users on X were quick to criticise the image, saying it resembled the attacks of September 11, 2001, when planes struck the Twin Towers in New York. The advertisement has still not been taken down by the PIA. pic.twitter.com/qUoNCyL385 — PIA (@Official_PIA) January 10, 2025 Omar Quraishi, a former political media adviser, said on X that he was “truly speechless” that the advert had been approved. “Did the airline management not vet this?” he said. Not the first time PIA has made headlines This was not the first time that the PIA has made headlines. Recently, the airline was banned by the European Union (EU) for over four years after it emerged that nearly a third of its pilots had cheated in their exams and failed to follow safety procedures. In 2017, the company attracted scandal after PIA staff members sacrificed a goat on the tarmac for good luck. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM Sharif orders probe after PIA's Paris ad stokes controversy

The death toll in a coal mine collapse due to methane gas accumulation and explosion has risen to 11, after rescuers recovered seven more bodies.
Twelve workers were trapped when the coal mine collapsed in the Sanjdi area, about 40 kilometres from Quetta in the Balochistan province, on Wednesday evening.
In three days of rescue work, 11 bodies were recovered by Saturday night, with rescue workers still searching for the last worker inside the collapsed structure.
Abdullah Shawani, the head of the province&rsquo;s mining department, stated, &ldquo;There are little chances of the last worker surviving for so long in the collapsed mine.&rdquo;
The incident occurred due to a buildup of gas, which caused an explosion and led to the mine caving in, according to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind.
He added that full-scale rescue operations were ongoing, but progress was slow due to the presence of toxic gas and debris. An investigation is underway to determine whether proper mining regulations were followed.
Pir Muhammad Kakar, a leader of the mines workers association, blamed the incident on the non-implementation of mining regulations by the owner of the coal mines and accused officials at the mines department of negligence. Kakar demanded strict action against these officials.
Coal mine collapses and worker deaths are frequent in the coal-rich western Balochistan, which is known for hazardous working conditions and poor safety standards.
In March last year, at least 12 miners were killed in a gas explosion at a coal pit in Harnai.&nbsp;
In May 2018, 23 people were killed and 11 wounded after two neighbouring coal mines collapsed in Sanjdi, and in 2011, 43 workers died when gas explosions triggered a collapse in another Balochistan colliery.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pakistan | South Asia: The incident occurred due to a buildup of gas, which caused an explosion and led to the mine caving in, according to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind.

The death toll in a coal mine collapse due to methane gas accumulation and explosion has risen to 11, after rescuers recovered seven more bodies. Twelve workers were trapped when the coal mine collapsed in the Sanjdi area, about 40 kilometres from Quetta in the Balochistan province, on Wednesday evening. In three days of rescue work, 11 bodies were recovered by Saturday night, with rescue workers still searching for the last worker inside the collapsed structure. Abdullah Shawani, the head of the province’s mining department, stated, “There are little chances of the last worker surviving for so long in the collapsed mine.” The incident occurred due to a buildup of gas, which caused an explosion and led to the mine caving in, according to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind. He added that full-scale rescue operations were ongoing, but progress was slow due to the presence of toxic gas and debris. An investigation is underway to determine whether proper mining regulations were followed. Pir Muhammad Kakar, a leader of the mines workers association, blamed the incident on the non-implementation of mining regulations by the owner of the coal mines and accused officials at the mines department of negligence. Kakar demanded strict action against these officials. Coal mine collapses and worker deaths are frequent in the coal-rich western Balochistan, which is known for hazardous working conditions and poor safety standards. In March last year, at least 12 miners were killed in a gas explosion at a coal pit in Harnai. In May 2018, 23 people were killed and 11 wounded after two neighbouring coal mines collapsed in Sanjdi, and in 2011, 43 workers died when gas explosions triggered a collapse in another Balochistan colliery. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Death toll in Pakistan mine collapse climbs to 11

Amid concerns in India over the alleged use of Starlink by militants, Elon Musk, who owns the satellite internet service, has revealed plans to start its operations in Pakistan.
This comes following an appeal made on the social media platform X to the tech billionaire on Saturday (Jan 4) by a user, Sanam Jamali, a citizen from Pakistan, who expressed her hope about how Starlink could transform Pakistan&rsquo;s digital landscape.&nbsp;
"Starlink could connect millions to high-speed internet and unlock new economic opportunities," the user tweeted. Musk responded directly, stating, "We are waiting for approval from the government."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5jnlcp2-lg9q90vn-j3uk2abr">
<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>, with Starlink, Pakistan 🇵🇰 could leap into the future, where every citizen has the chance to connect and grow. Please, let Starlink be our bridge to tomorrow.
&mdash; Sanam Jamali🇵🇰 (@sana_J2) <a href="https://twitter.com/sana_J2/status/1875530465828073865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 dir="ltr">National security concerns</h2>
The government of Pakistan has been in discussions regarding Starlink&rsquo;s entry for months, with ongoing deliberations about its regulatory and security implications. Shaza Fatima, the Minister of State for IT, informed the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom&nbsp;on December 5, 2024, that efforts were underway to facilitate Starlink's entry, but regulatory approvals were pending. During Senate meetings, officials raised concerns about potential bureaucratic delays and national security implications.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-starlink-devices-allegedly-smuggled-amid-manipur-internet-ban-8591662" rel="dofollow">India: Starlink devices allegedly smuggled into Manipur amid internet ban</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Pakistan's expanding IT sector</h2>
The IT sector is growing fast in Pakistan, and with this, Starlink has the ability to connect areas with limited or no internet access. However, the Starlink timeline depends on the decision made by the government. Although it can greatly enhance internet access in rural and remote parts of the country, the government is focusing on national security and ensuring compliance with local rules.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-investigate-starlink-to-hunt-down-drug-smugglers-781531" rel="dofollow">India set to investigate Starlink internet service to hunt down drug smugglers</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Awaiting further updates</h2>
Pakistani users who want high-speed satellite internet must now wait for announcements from Starlink and local authorities. According to reports, the government is anticipated to take a decision soon, though there is a clear indication that both regulatory processes and security checks will continue to lengthen delays. (With inputs from agencies)

World | Science & Tech: An appeal was made on X to Musk by a Pakistani user who expressed her hope about how Starlink could transform Pakistan’s digital landscape. 

Amid concerns in India over the alleged use of Starlink by militants, Elon Musk, who owns the satellite internet service, has revealed plans to start its operations in Pakistan. This comes following an appeal made on the social media platform X to the tech billionaire on Saturday (Jan 4) by a user, Sanam Jamali, a citizen from Pakistan, who expressed her hope about how Starlink could transform Pakistan’s digital landscape. "Starlink could connect millions to high-speed internet and unlock new economic opportunities," the user tweeted. Musk responded directly, stating, "We are waiting for approval from the government." @elonmusk, with Starlink, Pakistan 🇵🇰 could leap into the future, where every citizen has the chance to connect and grow. Please, let Starlink be our bridge to tomorrow. — Sanam Jamali🇵🇰 (@sana_J2) January 4, 2025 National security concerns The government of Pakistan has been in discussions regarding Starlink’s entry for months, with ongoing deliberations about its regulatory and security implications. Shaza Fatima, the Minister of State for IT, informed the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom on December 5, 2024, that efforts were underway to facilitate Starlink's entry, but regulatory approvals were pending. During Senate meetings, officials raised concerns about potential bureaucratic delays and national security implications. Also Read: India: Starlink devices allegedly smuggled into Manipur amid internet ban Pakistan's expanding IT sector The IT sector is growing fast in Pakistan, and with this, Starlink has the ability to connect areas with limited or no internet access. However, the Starlink timeline depends on the decision made by the government. Although it can greatly enhance internet access in rural and remote parts of the country, the government is focusing on national security and ensuring compliance with local rules. Also Read: India set to investigate Starlink internet service to hunt down drug smugglers Awaiting further updates Pakistani users who want high-speed satellite internet must now wait for announcements from Starlink and local authorities. According to reports, the government is anticipated to take a decision soon, though there is a clear indication that both regulatory processes and security checks will continue to lengthen delays. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk replies to Starlink appeal from Pakistan user: ‘Waiting for approval’

Pakistan on Wednesday (January 1) drastically reduced the pension benefits of retired civil and armed forces personnel with the aim of containing a growing pension bill.
According to Pakistani media, the finance ministry issued three separate notifications to discontinue multiple pensions, reducing both the first home take pension and also lowering the base for determining future increases in pensions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-court-sentences-8-pakistanis-to-20-yrs-in-prison-in-massive-drug-seizure-case-8585222" rel="dofollow">Indian court sentences eight Pakistanis to 20 years in prison in drug seizure case</a>
A report by The Express Tribune said the changes (in pension structure) would not apply to people who had already retired, except in cases where multiple pensions were being paid.&nbsp;
<h2>The changes in pension structure</h2>
The report said that instead of taking a pension based on the last drawn salary, new pensioners would get a pension based on the average salary of the last two years.
The changes in the pension structure came into effect from Wednesday itself. The changes were made based on the recommendations of a commission constituted by the previous Imran Khan government in 2020.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-suffers-deadliest-year-for-security-forces-amid-rise-in-violence-8581724" rel="dofollow">Pakistan witnesses 'deadliest year' for security forces amid violence surge</a>
The changes also end the annual compounding of the pension, and any increase would be treated separately from the base pension.
<h2>Pension is 4th largest expenditure in Pak's budget</h2>
Pension is the fourth largest expenditure in Pakistan's budget, coming after debt servicing, defence, and development.
It was reported last month that amid discussions over the increase in retirement age for selective positions, the government was examining reducing the average age of superannuation by five years to 55.
&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | Pakistan: The changes in the pension system came weeks after the government was examining reducing the average age of superannuation by five years to 55.

Pakistan on Wednesday (January 1) drastically reduced the pension benefits of retired civil and armed forces personnel with the aim of containing a growing pension bill. According to Pakistani media, the finance ministry issued three separate notifications to discontinue multiple pensions, reducing both the first home take pension and also lowering the base for determining future increases in pensions. Also read | Indian court sentences eight Pakistanis to 20 years in prison in drug seizure case A report by The Express Tribune said the changes (in pension structure) would not apply to people who had already retired, except in cases where multiple pensions were being paid. The changes in pension structure The report said that instead of taking a pension based on the last drawn salary, new pensioners would get a pension based on the average salary of the last two years. The changes in the pension structure came into effect from Wednesday itself. The changes were made based on the recommendations of a commission constituted by the previous Imran Khan government in 2020. Also read | Pakistan witnesses 'deadliest year' for security forces amid violence surge The changes also end the annual compounding of the pension, and any increase would be treated separately from the base pension. Pension is 4th largest expenditure in Pak's budget Pension is the fourth largest expenditure in Pakistan's budget, coming after debt servicing, defence, and development. It was reported last month that amid discussions over the increase in retirement age for selective positions, the government was examining reducing the average age of superannuation by five years to 55. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan drastically reduces pensions benefits of retired civil and armed forces personnel: Reports

Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, the brother-in-law of Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed and deputy chief of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), passed away in Lahore on Friday (December 27) following a heart attack, news agency PTI reported.
Makki, a key plotter behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks that killed 175 people and injured over 300 in 2008, was also the brother-in-law of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed. In January 2023, the United Nations designated him a global terrorist.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-masood-azhar-makes-first-address-in-20-years-vows-to-renew-operations-against-india-781772">Pulwama attack mastermind Masood Azhar makes first address in 20 years, vows to renew operations&nbsp;against&nbsp;India</a>
The JuD said that Makki had been unwell for several days and was receiving treatment for high diabetes at a private hospital in Lahore. A JuD official told PTI, "Makki suffered a cardiac arrest early this morning and he breathed his last in the hospital."
<h2>UN declared 'global terrorist'</h2>
Makki was arrested by Pakistani authorities in May 2019 and placed under house arrest in Lahore. In 2020, he was convicted by a Pakistani court on terror financing charges and sentenced to life imprisonment. Last year, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) declared him a "global terrorist".
In addition to the 26/11 attacks, Makki was wanted by Indian security forces for his involvement in the Red Fort attack of December 22, 2000, when six LeT terrorists charged into the fort and opened fire on security personnel stationed there.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-suspected-pakistan-trained-terrorist-with-tehreek-ul-mujahideen-links-arrested-in-bengal-786049">India: Suspected Pakistan-trained terrorist with Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen links arrested in Bengal</a>
Makki&rsquo;s speeches inciting violence against India led to his inclusion in the US Treasury Department&rsquo;s list of designated and sanctioned terrorists in November 2010. At the time, the department said, "Treasury also acted against Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, head of LeT&rsquo;s political affairs department, for acting for or on behalf of LET." 
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan | Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, a key plotter behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks that killed 175 people and injured over 300 in 2008

Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, the brother-in-law of Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed and deputy chief of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), passed away in Lahore on Friday (December 27) following a heart attack, news agency PTI reported. Makki, a key plotter behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks that killed 175 people and injured over 300 in 2008, was also the brother-in-law of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed. In January 2023, the United Nations designated him a global terrorist. Also read: Pulwama attack mastermind Masood Azhar makes first address in 20 years, vows to renew operations against India The JuD said that Makki had been unwell for several days and was receiving treatment for high diabetes at a private hospital in Lahore. A JuD official told PTI, "Makki suffered a cardiac arrest early this morning and he breathed his last in the hospital." UN declared 'global terrorist' Makki was arrested by Pakistani authorities in May 2019 and placed under house arrest in Lahore. In 2020, he was convicted by a Pakistani court on terror financing charges and sentenced to life imprisonment. Last year, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) declared him a "global terrorist". In addition to the 26/11 attacks, Makki was wanted by Indian security forces for his involvement in the Red Fort attack of December 22, 2000, when six LeT terrorists charged into the fort and opened fire on security personnel stationed there. Also read: India: Suspected Pakistan-trained terrorist with Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen links arrested in Bengal Makki’s speeches inciting violence against India led to his inclusion in the US Treasury Department’s list of designated and sanctioned terrorists in November 2010. At the time, the department said, "Treasury also acted against Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, head of LeT’s political affairs department, for acting for or on behalf of LET." (With inputs from agencies)

26/11 Mumbai attack plotter Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki dies of 'heart attack' in Pakistan

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