Pakistan's aviation regulator has issued show-cause notices to 193 pilots suspected of having "dubious" flying licence after completing the scrutiny process of 262 pilots in the wake of a major scandal, according to a media report on Monday.

The scandal over pilot licences in Pakistan emerged from an investigation into the crash of a Pakistan International Airlines plane on May 22 in Karachi that killed 97 people. The inquiry determined that nearly one-third of Pakistan's pilots cheated on exams but still received licences from the country's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The CAA was tasked by the Supreme Court on July 21 to immediately complete an inquiry against pilots of the national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), following revelation by the aviation minister about fake documents of scores of pilots.

The CAA after completing the scrutiny process of the record of 262 pilots issued show-cause notices to 193 of them, the Dawn News reported.

The CAA inquiry board found 850 pilots with suspected credentials out of which 262 licences were found "dubious". The board had grounded all the 262 pilots, while the federal Cabinet had approved cancellation of the licences of 28 pilots out of these 262, the report said, quoting sources.

Of the 193 pilots, who were issued show-cause notices, 140 have submitted their replies and they are being called in batches by the inquiry committee to explain their positions.

A senior official said notices to the remaining pilots could not be sent because there were "technical mistakes" in the names of some pilots and their registration or reference numbers, which are being resolved.

A five-member committee constituted by the Aviation Division to investigate the pilots' cases has been scrutinising the credentials of pilots.

The Aviation Division has referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) the cases against five CAA officials, who had been suspended for their alleged involvement in issuing dubious licences.

It has also sought FIA's help against the CAA's information technology experts involved in the examination scam.

The scandal prompted the US in July to downgrade the safety rating of Pakistan's aviation system and block the country's airlines from launching air services to America.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it put Pakistan in category-2 rating, which means airlines from

Pakistan can't start new flights to the US. Also, US airlines can't sell seats on Pakistani flights, a practice called code-sharing that is common among other international airlines.

Currently there are no regular scheduled flights between the US and Pakistan.

The European Union last month also banned PIA from flying to Europe for at least six months.

Pakistan's aviation regulator has issued show-cause notices to 193 pilots suspected of having "dubious" flying licence after completing the scrutiny process of 262 pilots in the wake of a major scandal, according to a media report on Monday.

Pakistan's aviation regulator has issued show-cause notices to 193 pilots suspected of having "dubious" flying licence after completing the scrutiny process of 262 pilots in the wake of a major scandal, according to a media report on Monday. The scandal over pilot licences in Pakistan emerged from an investigation into the crash of a Pakistan International Airlines plane on May 22 in Karachi that killed 97 people. The inquiry determined that nearly one-third of Pakistan's pilots cheated on exams but still received licences from the country's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The CAA was tasked by the Supreme Court on July 21 to immediately complete an inquiry against pilots of the national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), following revelation by the aviation minister about fake documents of scores of pilots. The CAA after completing the scrutiny process of the record of 262 pilots issued show-cause notices to 193 of them, the Dawn News reported. The CAA inquiry board found 850 pilots with suspected credentials out of which 262 licences were found "dubious". The board had grounded all the 262 pilots, while the federal Cabinet had approved cancellation of the licences of 28 pilots out of these 262, the report said, quoting sources. Of the 193 pilots, who were issued show-cause notices, 140 have submitted their replies and they are being called in batches by the inquiry committee to explain their positions. A senior official said notices to the remaining pilots could not be sent because there were "technical mistakes" in the names of some pilots and their registration or reference numbers, which are being resolved. A five-member committee constituted by the Aviation Division to investigate the pilots' cases has been scrutinising the credentials of pilots. The Aviation Division has referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) the cases against five CAA officials, who had been suspended for their alleged involvement in issuing dubious licences. It has also sought FIA's help against the CAA's information technology experts involved in the examination scam. The scandal prompted the US in July to downgrade the safety rating of Pakistan's aviation system and block the country's airlines from launching air services to America. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it put Pakistan in category-2 rating, which means airlines from Pakistan can't start new flights to the US. Also, US airlines can't sell seats on Pakistani flights, a practice called code-sharing that is common among other international airlines. Currently there are no regular scheduled flights between the US and Pakistan. The European Union last month also banned PIA from flying to Europe for at least six months.

Pakistan's aviation regulator issues show cause notices to 193 pilots following licence scandal

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province on Monday, killing five persons and wounding 20 others, police said.

The blast took place in Chaman's Mall Road and a number of vehicles were damaged in the attack.

The bomb was planted in a motorcycle parked outside a shop killed 5 persons and injuring 20 others, a senior police official said.

The injured have been shifted to a hospital for treatment, the officer said.

Chaman is considered a sensitive town in Balochistan as it shares a border with Afghanistan's volatile Kandahar province. In March this year, at least nine people were injured in an explosion near the Levies Lines of the town.

(With inputs from agencies)

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province on Monday, killing five persons and wounding 20 others, police said.

A powerful bomb blast ripped through a busy market in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province on Monday, killing five persons and wounding 20 others, police said. The blast took place in Chaman's Mall Road and a number of vehicles were damaged in the attack. The bomb was planted in a motorcycle parked outside a shop killed 5 persons and injuring 20 others, a senior police official said. The injured have been shifted to a hospital for treatment, the officer said. Chaman is considered a sensitive town in Balochistan as it shares a border with Afghanistan's volatile Kandahar province. In March this year, at least nine people were injured in an explosion near the Levies Lines of the town. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Powerful bomb blast in Balochistan province kills 5 persons, injures 20

India has once again raised the issue of cross-border terrorism at the UNSC. New Delhi described itself as "a victim of terrorism" sponsored from across the Pakistani border. Watch report.

India at UNSC | "We are a victim of terror" | Calls out Pak for harbouring terrorists

Fear has become a daily reality for Christians in Pakistan.

A community that constitute just two per cent of the country's total population are facing increasing discrimination and violence by a majority of Muslims.&nbsp;

Christian girls have to encounter horrific realities in Pakistan, some of which the worst are forced marriage and conversion to Islam.&nbsp;

This is exactly the real-life tragedy of Maria Shahbaz.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-citizen-accused-of-blasphemy-shot-dead-in-pakistan-courtroom-316959">US citizen accused of blasphemy shot dead in Pakistan courtroom</a>

Maria, a 14-year-old Chrisitan girl, was abducted at gunpoint in April this year.

She was then forcibly married to her abductor, an influential Muslim man.

For three months, the 14-year-old remained in her abductor's custody.&nbsp;

Her family's only hope for justice was Pakistan's infamous judicial system.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the Lahore High Court ruled that Maria Shahbaz had willingly converted to Islam and married her kidnapper.&nbsp;

The verdict, therefore, asked her to stay in his abductor's custody and be a good wife.&nbsp;

The court even discounted birth certificates and school records that proved that she was a minor.&nbsp;

An eyewitness's account says that the girl was in tears when this ruling was announced, afraid to speak her mind, fearing for her family's safety.&nbsp;

She is not the first minority woman in Pakistan that has gone through this ordeal and certainly won't be the last.&nbsp;

An estimated 1,000 poor women and girls from Pakistan's minority communities are abducted every year, converted to Islam and forced to marry their captors.&nbsp;

Pakistan's priorities are different, which includes pandering extremists, which means these grim figures are unlikely to change anytime soon.&nbsp;

Fear has become a daily reality for Christians in Pakistan. A community that constitute just two per cent of the country's total population are facing increasing discrimination and violence by a majority of Muslims.

Fear has become a daily reality for Christians in Pakistan. A community that constitute just two per cent of the country's total population are facing increasing discrimination and violence by a majority of Muslims. Christian girls have to encounter horrific realities in Pakistan, some of which the worst are forced marriage and conversion to Islam. This is exactly the real-life tragedy of Maria Shahbaz. Also read | US citizen accused of blasphemy shot dead in Pakistan courtroom Maria, a 14-year-old Chrisitan girl, was abducted at gunpoint in April this year. She was then forcibly married to her abductor, an influential Muslim man. For three months, the 14-year-old remained in her abductor's custody. Her family's only hope for justice was Pakistan's infamous judicial system. On Tuesday, the Lahore High Court ruled that Maria Shahbaz had willingly converted to Islam and married her kidnapper. The verdict, therefore, asked her to stay in his abductor's custody and be a good wife. The court even discounted birth certificates and school records that proved that she was a minor. An eyewitness's account says that the girl was in tears when this ruling was announced, afraid to speak her mind, fearing for her family's safety. She is not the first minority woman in Pakistan that has gone through this ordeal and certainly won't be the last. An estimated 1,000 poor women and girls from Pakistan's minority communities are abducted every year, converted to Islam and forced to marry their captors. Pakistan's priorities are different, which includes pandering extremists, which means these grim figures are unlikely to change anytime soon.

Pakistan's failed judicial system fails 14-year-old Christian girl

New Delhi accuses Pakistan of arms trafficking at United Nations Security Council (UNSC). India raised the issue of cross-border terrorism as well. India highlighted the ways in which organised crime syndicate fund terror organisations.

New Delhi accuses Pakistan of arms trafficking at UNSC

Beijing wants to expand its influence in Afghanistan. According to a report, Pakistan and China have now struck an intelligence-sharing alliance. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how this move could undermine the US & India in the region.

Gravitas: Dragon's moves in Afghanistan | China - Pakistan strike an intelligence-sharing alliance

A 14-year-old Christian girl who was abducted at gunpoint & forcibly married has been ordered to stay with her captor by the Lahore High Court. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how fear has become a daily reality for Pakistan's Christians.

Gravitas: The plight of Christian girls in Pakistan

India has slammed Turkey for making "factually incorrect, biased and unwarranted" statement on Kashmir. Turkey had made a statement on the first anniversary of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August saying the development has "complicated" the situation.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava responding to a WION question in a weekly presser said, "We would urge the govt of Turkey to get a proper understanding of the situation on the ground and refrain from interfering in matters internal to India".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-report-claiming-chinese-aggression-on-lac-vanishes-from-defence-ministry-website-318599">India-China standoff: Report claiming 'Chinese aggression on LAC' vanishes from defence ministry website</a>

This is not for the first time Turkey has made remarks on Kashmir. Turkey, a close ally of Pakistan has been making repeated remarks on Kashmir drawing New Delhi's ire. &nbsp;

Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan has been making a number of remarks on India, including from the United Nations General Assembly last year. Turkish President who has a personal rapport with Pakistani PM Imran Khan earlier this year visited Pakistan and vowed support to Islamabad against India.

India has slammed Turkey for making "factually incorrect, biased and unwarranted" statement on Kashmir. Turkey had made a statement on the first anniversary of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August saying the development has "complicated" the situation.

India has slammed Turkey for making "factually incorrect, biased and unwarranted" statement on Kashmir. Turkey had made a statement on the first anniversary of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August saying the development has "complicated" the situation. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava responding to a WION question in a weekly presser said, "We would urge the govt of Turkey to get a proper understanding of the situation on the ground and refrain from interfering in matters internal to India". Also read | India-China standoff: Report claiming 'Chinese aggression on LAC' vanishes from defence ministry website This is not for the first time Turkey has made remarks on Kashmir. Turkey, a close ally of Pakistan has been making repeated remarks on Kashmir drawing New Delhi's ire. Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan has been making a number of remarks on India, including from the United Nations General Assembly last year. Turkish President who has a personal rapport with Pakistani PM Imran Khan earlier this year visited Pakistan and vowed support to Islamabad against India.

India slams Turkey for making 'biased' statement on Kashmir

Pakistan has brought its all-weather friend China for its sinister Afghanistan agenda, an agreement that could make the United States' efforts for a peace deal irrelevant.&nbsp;

A new report has claimed that China and Pakistan have begun an "unprecedented intelligence sharing agreement" that allows Beijing to spread its tentacles in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

According to this report, China aims to fulfil multiple objectives with the arrangements.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-foreign-minister-says-pakistani-terror-groups-have-symbiotic-relations-with-al-qaeda-is-318709">Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS</a>

These objectives include denying Uighurs a safe haven in Afghanistan.

Reportedly, Pakistan and China have secured pledges from the Taliban to not support the Uighurs.&nbsp;

China also aims economic expansion in this region and trying hard to take its Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) to Afghanistan.&nbsp;

It has already reserved major mineral stockpiles for itself.&nbsp;

In 2007, a state-owned Chinese company outbid everyone to win rights over 11 million tons of copper in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The deal was worth more than $3 billion, but its details are inaccessible, mainly due to the volatile security situation.&nbsp;

Another objective of China is to gain an advantage over India in South Asia.

By building a string of pearls through ports and other infrastructure, China has tried to encircle India on the high seas.&nbsp;

Beijing could be trying to accomplish a similar encirclement through land via Pakistan.

Reportedly, the intelligence-sharing has begun. China has granted the Pakistani defence ministry access to its high-level meetings.&nbsp;

These meetings are part of China's central military commission that is chaired by Chinese President Xi Jinping himself.&nbsp;

Usually, these meetings of the joint staff department are a secret gathering and attendees are only senior Chinese leaders.

However, reports suggest, a Pakistani general is now allowed to be a part of these meetings as an observer.&nbsp;

The US intelligence community is worried and the fear is US withdrawal from the region could open doors for China's entry.&nbsp;

Pakistan has brought its all-weather friend China for its sinister Afghanistan agenda, an agreement that could make the United States' efforts for a peace deal irrelevant.

Pakistan has brought its all-weather friend China for its sinister Afghanistan agenda, an agreement that could make the United States' efforts for a peace deal irrelevant. A new report has claimed that China and Pakistan have begun an "unprecedented intelligence sharing agreement" that allows Beijing to spread its tentacles in Afghanistan. According to this report, China aims to fulfil multiple objectives with the arrangements. Also read | Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS These objectives include denying Uighurs a safe haven in Afghanistan. Reportedly, Pakistan and China have secured pledges from the Taliban to not support the Uighurs. China also aims economic expansion in this region and trying hard to take its Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) to Afghanistan. It has already reserved major mineral stockpiles for itself. In 2007, a state-owned Chinese company outbid everyone to win rights over 11 million tons of copper in Afghanistan. The deal was worth more than $3 billion, but its details are inaccessible, mainly due to the volatile security situation. Another objective of China is to gain an advantage over India in South Asia. By building a string of pearls through ports and other infrastructure, China has tried to encircle India on the high seas. Beijing could be trying to accomplish a similar encirclement through land via Pakistan. Reportedly, the intelligence-sharing has begun. China has granted the Pakistani defence ministry access to its high-level meetings. These meetings are part of China's central military commission that is chaired by Chinese President Xi Jinping himself. Usually, these meetings of the joint staff department are a secret gathering and attendees are only senior Chinese leaders. However, reports suggest, a Pakistani general is now allowed to be a part of these meetings as an observer. The US intelligence community is worried and the fear is US withdrawal from the region could open doors for China's entry.

Pakistan-China intelligence-sharing deal threatens US peace efforts in Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia has made Pakistan repay $1 Billion from the loan it borrowed in 2018. According to reports, China helped Pakistan pay back the money to the Sheikhdom.

China's debt-trap comes to Pakistan's rescue

Saudi Arabia has made Pakistan repay $1 Billion from the loan it borrowed in 2018. According to reports, China helped Pakistan pay back the money to the Sheikhdom. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Islamabad may be losing the support of the Islamic world.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia makes Pakistan repay $1 Billion

A report has claimed that Turkey is luring Indian students for Pakistani proxies - by offering them lavish scholarships. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Indian agencies are raising red flags over Turkish funding for education in India.

Gravitas: Is Turkey luring Indian students for Pak proxies?

Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar has listed Pakistani terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad as having "symbiotic" ties other terror groups in the region including Al Qaeda, Islamic State and collectively posing as a threat to the region.

Speaking at Hoover Institution's virtual event, Atmar said, "It is not just Taliban we are fighting in Afghanistan. There are 4 groups of transnational terror networks. There are those who are Afghans, 2nd group is regional terrorist, such as Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), East Turkestan Islamic Movement, Pakistani terrorist group is the 3rd category such as Lashkar-e-Toiba, TTP, Jaish-e-Mohammad and intl terrorist groups--Al Qaeda, Daesh"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-10-taliban-terrorists-killed-as-clashes-resume-post-eid-ceasefire-318642">Afghanistan: 10 Taliban terrorists killed as clashes resume post Eid ceasefire</a>

Explaining, "They all have symbiotic relationships. Not only among themselves but also transnational organised criminal network. They benefit from narcotics, they benefit from organised crime. They collectively pose a national security threat, to the region and the world."

India has raised many concerns regarding cross border terror emerging from Pakistan at the multilateral organisation

Without naming Pakistan, calling the failure to address sanctuaries outside Afghanistan, Atmar said, "The problem of sanctuaries outside Afghanistan...The Taliban has driven away from Afghanistan, they were given sanctuaries outside of Afghanistan and to this day we were not able to address the sanctuary problem"&nbsp;

A recent United Nations report highlighted that about 6500 Pakistani as foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan with Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba having around 1000 armed fighters in the landlocked South Asian country. Most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them. 
&nbsp;

Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar has listed Pakistani terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad as having "symbiotic" ties other terror groups in the region including Al Qaeda, Islamic State and collectively posing as a threat to the region.

Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar has listed Pakistani terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad as having "symbiotic" ties other terror groups in the region including Al Qaeda, Islamic State and collectively posing as a threat to the region. Speaking at Hoover Institution's virtual event, Atmar said, "It is not just Taliban we are fighting in Afghanistan. There are 4 groups of transnational terror networks. There are those who are Afghans, 2nd group is regional terrorist, such as Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), East Turkestan Islamic Movement, Pakistani terrorist group is the 3rd category such as Lashkar-e-Toiba, TTP, Jaish-e-Mohammad and intl terrorist groups--Al Qaeda, Daesh" Also read | Afghanistan: 10 Taliban terrorists killed as clashes resume post Eid ceasefire Explaining, "They all have symbiotic relationships. Not only among themselves but also transnational organised criminal network. They benefit from narcotics, they benefit from organised crime. They collectively pose a national security threat, to the region and the world." India has raised many concerns regarding cross border terror emerging from Pakistan at the multilateral organisation Without naming Pakistan, calling the failure to address sanctuaries outside Afghanistan, Atmar said, "The problem of sanctuaries outside Afghanistan...The Taliban has driven away from Afghanistan, they were given sanctuaries outside of Afghanistan and to this day we were not able to address the sanctuary problem" A recent United Nations report highlighted that about 6500 Pakistani as foreign terrorist fighters are present in Afghanistan with Pakistan based terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba having around 1000 armed fighters in the landlocked South Asian country. Most of the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba fighters are co-located with Taliban fighters and are hand in glove with them.

Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS

Pakistan has invited India for September 3 Kulbhushan Jhadav proceedings at the Islamabad high court and offered unimpeded and unhindered consular access with no mandatory use of English as a medium for conversation.

Pak invites India to be part of next proceedings in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case

It's always better to serve one master at a time. If you start serving two, you are inviting trouble.

This is a lesson from the Bible and Pakistan has started to learn it finally.&nbsp;

The Imran Khan government made itself a slave of money by two masters: Saudi Arabia, its religious master with oil money and China, the mastermind with deep pockets.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Pakistan has borrowed billions of dollars from both these nations.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-approves-most-expensive-china-aided-project-to-date-318443">Pakistan approves most expensive China-aided project to date</a>

China's debt-trap diplomacy is well-known, but what about Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Islamabad secured a $3 billion loan from Riyadh in October 2018, assuming that they would not be asked to pay back.&nbsp;

The Pakistani PM tried hard to ensure this and even played chauffeur for the Saudi crown prince.&nbsp;

Earlier today, it was announced in Pakistani media that Islamabad has paid back $1 billion.&nbsp;

However, the Pakistani media has not put it correctly, and, in fact, Riyadh has forced it to pay.

This payback was due for a long time and let's just look at what really happened.

Ever since he came to power, Khan has been obsessed with Kashmir. Repeatedly, Khan has allowed this obsession to dominate Pakistan's foreign policy.&nbsp;

In February, Khan consistently pushed Saudi Arabia for the Organisation of Islamic Countries' (OIC) meeting on Kashmir. Saudi Arabia is the de facto leader of OIC and it refused to slam India on Kashmir.&nbsp;

The prime minister went all the way to Malaysia and said: "OIC can't come together on Kashmir, we are divided, we have no voice".&nbsp;

This tone of Imran was not appreciated by Saudi Arabia. Riyadh's message was clear: Domestic political narratives cannot drive foreign policy.&nbsp;

It has been a while since this episode and the world faced the pandemic in between.&nbsp;

But it seems that the Pakistani PM has not moved on and is once again asking Saudis to convene a meeting of Islamic countries on Kashmir.&nbsp;

Recently, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said: "OIC's leadership should stay away from this attitude of being careful and if they can't do this, then our prime minister will call the meeting".

These are strong words spoken by a country that is surviving on loans from Saudi Arabia.

Another question that remains is how did Pakistan afford to pay back a billion dollars, during a pandemic and when its economy is on a downfall.&nbsp;

The answer is China.

A Pakistani newspaper said, "Pakistan's time-tested friend, China, has immediately come forward and extended $1 billion in loan to help Islamabad avoid any adverse impact of the partial withdrawal of the Saudi lifeline."

China's modus operandi is this policy, give with one hand and take away with the other.&nbsp;

And once again China managed to do this.&nbsp;

At least 24 hours before China helped Pakistan with this aid, Pakistan's top economic body approved its costliest project ever: CPEC, a $6.8 billion project to upgrade Pakistan's railway lines.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan's entire developmental budget this financial year was $7.9 billion.

China's time-tested friendship has been a costly affair for Pakistan.

The harsh reality for Pakistan is that its obsession with Kashmir and attempts to please China has impacted its support from the Islamic world.&nbsp;

Imran Khan can drive all he likes, but he can't take the world for a ride.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It's always better to serve one master at a time. If you start serving two, you are inviting trouble. This is a lesson from the Bible and Pakistan has started to learn it finally.

It's always better to serve one master at a time. If you start serving two, you are inviting trouble. This is a lesson from the Bible and Pakistan has started to learn it finally. The Imran Khan government made itself a slave of money by two masters: Saudi Arabia, its religious master with oil money and China, the mastermind with deep pockets. Watch | Pakistan has borrowed billions of dollars from both these nations. Also read | Pakistan approves most expensive China-aided project to date China's debt-trap diplomacy is well-known, but what about Saudi Arabia. Islamabad secured a $3 billion loan from Riyadh in October 2018, assuming that they would not be asked to pay back. The Pakistani PM tried hard to ensure this and even played chauffeur for the Saudi crown prince. Earlier today, it was announced in Pakistani media that Islamabad has paid back $1 billion. However, the Pakistani media has not put it correctly, and, in fact, Riyadh has forced it to pay. This payback was due for a long time and let's just look at what really happened. Ever since he came to power, Khan has been obsessed with Kashmir. Repeatedly, Khan has allowed this obsession to dominate Pakistan's foreign policy. In February, Khan consistently pushed Saudi Arabia for the Organisation of Islamic Countries' (OIC) meeting on Kashmir. Saudi Arabia is the de facto leader of OIC and it refused to slam India on Kashmir. The prime minister went all the way to Malaysia and said: "OIC can't come together on Kashmir, we are divided, we have no voice". This tone of Imran was not appreciated by Saudi Arabia. Riyadh's message was clear: Domestic political narratives cannot drive foreign policy. It has been a while since this episode and the world faced the pandemic in between. But it seems that the Pakistani PM has not moved on and is once again asking Saudis to convene a meeting of Islamic countries on Kashmir. Recently, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said: "OIC's leadership should stay away from this attitude of being careful and if they can't do this, then our prime minister will call the meeting". These are strong words spoken by a country that is surviving on loans from Saudi Arabia. Another question that remains is how did Pakistan afford to pay back a billion dollars, during a pandemic and when its economy is on a downfall. The answer is China. A Pakistani newspaper said, "Pakistan's time-tested friend, China, has immediately come forward and extended $1 billion in loan to help Islamabad avoid any adverse impact of the partial withdrawal of the Saudi lifeline." China's modus operandi is this policy, give with one hand and take away with the other. And once again China managed to do this. At least 24 hours before China helped Pakistan with this aid, Pakistan's top economic body approved its costliest project ever: CPEC, a $6.8 billion project to upgrade Pakistan's railway lines. Interestingly, Pakistan's entire developmental budget this financial year was $7.9 billion. China's time-tested friendship has been a costly affair for Pakistan. The harsh reality for Pakistan is that its obsession with Kashmir and attempts to please China has impacted its support from the Islamic world. Imran Khan can drive all he likes, but he can't take the world for a ride.

Imran Khan's proximity with China has distanced his other master

Pakistan has invited India for September 3 Kulbhushan Jhadav proceedings at the Islamabad high court and offered unimpeded and unhindered consular access with no mandatory use of English as a medium for conversation.

The Pakistani govt in the latest offer on Thursday evening to New Delhi in the Jadhav case also conveyed that New Delhi can appoint a lawyer of its own choice to fight the case.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-appoints-three-senior-lawyers-as-amici-curiae-in-jadhavs-case-318096#:~:text=We%20appoint%20Mr%20Abid%20Hassan,general%20and%2C%20in%20particular%2C%20to">Pak court appoints three senior lawyers as amici curiae in Jadhav's case</a>

The Pakistani govt in the proposal for consular access said willing to give "unimpeded" and "unhindered" access without any "glass barrier" and conversation that can happen in any language. This is a departure from the previous stance of the Pakistani govt when it said, the mode of language for talks between Jhadav and Indian Diplomats should be only English.

The Pakistani offer is in light of the Islamabad high court order who while taking up Pakistani govt's petition for appointment of its own lawyer said Indian govt should be "authorized" to arrange a lawyer for the case. The next date of the case is September 3 at 2.30 PM Indian standard time.

Pakistani Attorney General Khalid Javed Khan speaking to media outside the court on Monday said, "Court said, if India wants to engage lawyer, it can do. Federal govt also wants that. Only Pakistani lawyers can be allowed"

In the month of May, Pakistan had come up with an ordinance to implement the International Court of Justice (ICJ) verdict of last year. Under the ordinance, India on behalf of Jhadav can file review for the case. In fact, New Delhi had appointed a Pakistani lawyer to fight the case in Pakistan court but the person was not given relevant legal document.&nbsp;

India did try to file a petition on 18th July, just 2 days before the ordinance expires, but in absence of power of attorney and supporting legal documents, the could not be done. While Pakistan had called Indian diplomats to meet Jhadav terming as "consular access" before the ordinance expires, the Ministry of external affairs has said that the meet was scuttled by Pakistan authorities.

The MEA said,"The Consular Officers were instructed not to hand over any document to Shri Jadhav. Hence, the Indian Consular Officers could not obtain a Power of Attorney from Shri Jadhav."

India maintains that Jadhav was abducted by Pakistani agencies from Iran and New Delhi was first informed about his custody by Pakistani authorities on 25th March 2016, after which in 2017, Islamabad announced that military has awarded death sentence to him.

Pakistan has invited India for September 3 Kulbhushan Jhadav proceedings at the Islamabad high court and offered unimpeded and unhindered consular access with no mandatory use of English as a medium for conversation. The Pakistani govt in the latest offer on Thursday evening to New Delhi in the Jadhav case also conveyed that New Delhi can appoint a lawyer of its own choice to fight the case. Also read | Pak court appoints three senior lawyers as amici curiae in Jadhav's case The Pakistani govt in the proposal for consular access said willing to give "unimpeded" and "unhindered" access without any "glass barrier" and conversation that can happen in any language. This is a departure from the previous stance of the Pakistani govt when it said, the mode of language for talks between Jhadav and Indian Diplomats should be only English. The Pakistani offer is in light of the Islamabad high court order who while taking up Pakistani govt's petition for appointment of its own lawyer said Indian govt should be "authorized" to arrange a lawyer for the case. The next date of the case is September 3 at 2.30 PM Indian standard time. Pakistani Attorney General Khalid Javed Khan speaking to media outside the court on Monday said, "Court said, if India wants to engage lawyer, it can do. Federal govt also wants that. Only Pakistani lawyers can be allowed" In the month of May, Pakistan had come up with an ordinance to implement the International Court of Justice (ICJ) verdict of last year. Under the ordinance, India on behalf of Jhadav can file review for the case. In fact, New Delhi had appointed a Pakistani lawyer to fight the case in Pakistan court but the person was not given relevant legal document. India did try to file a petition on 18th July, just 2 days before the ordinance expires, but in absence of power of attorney and supporting legal documents, the could not be done. While Pakistan had called Indian diplomats to meet Jhadav terming as "consular access" before the ordinance expires, the Ministry of external affairs has said that the meet was scuttled by Pakistan authorities. The MEA said,"The Consular Officers were instructed not to hand over any document to Shri Jadhav. Hence, the Indian Consular Officers could not obtain a Power of Attorney from Shri Jadhav." India maintains that Jadhav was abducted by Pakistani agencies from Iran and New Delhi was first informed about his custody by Pakistani authorities on 25th March 2016, after which in 2017, Islamabad announced that military has awarded death sentence to him.

Pakistan invites India to be part of Sep 3 Kulbhushan Jadhav case proceedings; offers consular access

A resistance movement against the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is getting bigger. Baloch and Sindhi groups have joined hands against Chinese investments. China is responding by asking Pakistan to declare some of its citizens as terrorists - who pose a threat to Chinese assets. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: China asks Pakistan to declare some of its citizens as terrorists

China promised development and employment when the China-Pakistan economic corridor was launched. But, broken promises are forcing the people in Gwadar to pick up arms against Chinese investments in Pakistan. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Pakistan: How CPEC left behind the people of Gwadar

In Pakistan, a number of Islamic Journals are questioning Imran Khan's silence on the persecution of Uighurs. The Pak govt has been forced to make some 'recommendations' to China on treating minorities. What does China feel about Pakistan's assessments? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: China rejects Pak's advice on Uighur Muslims

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Defence Minister Pervez Khattak on Monday visited the Line of Control (LoC) where they were briefed by the Army about the latest situation, according to officials.

The two ministers, accompanied by the Prime Minister's Special Assistant on National Security Moeed Yusuf, visited the Chiri Kot Sector.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-urges-pakistan-to-declare-certain-groups-in-country-as-terrorists-317926">China urges Pakistan to declare certain groups in country as terrorists</a>

In a video message released before his LoC visit, Qureshi said he was visiting the LoC along with the Defence Minister to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people.

The two ministers visited the Chiri Kot Sector where they were briefed by the Army about the latest situation of the LoC, officials said.

India has firmly told Pakistan that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been, is and shall continue to be an integral part of India. Issues related to Jammu and Kashmir are an internal matter of India, the Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated.

Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 last year and bifurcating it into two union territories.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Defence Minister Pervez Khattak on Monday visited the Line of Control (LoC) where they were briefed by the Army about the latest situation, according to officials.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Defence Minister Pervez Khattak on Monday visited the Line of Control (LoC) where they were briefed by the Army about the latest situation, according to officials. The two ministers, accompanied by the Prime Minister's Special Assistant on National Security Moeed Yusuf, visited the Chiri Kot Sector. Also read | China urges Pakistan to declare certain groups in country as terrorists In a video message released before his LoC visit, Qureshi said he was visiting the LoC along with the Defence Minister to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people. The two ministers visited the Chiri Kot Sector where they were briefed by the Army about the latest situation of the LoC, officials said. India has firmly told Pakistan that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been, is and shall continue to be an integral part of India. Issues related to Jammu and Kashmir are an internal matter of India, the Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated. Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 last year and bifurcating it into two union territories. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Pakistan ministers visit LoC on Monday

A special bench of Islamabad high court on Monday directed Pakistani govt to not only inform Kulbhushan Jadhav of his right to avail "statutory remedy" but also "authorize" Indian govt to arrange a lawyer for the case. The special bench consisted of Islamabad high court Chief Justice Athar Minallah &amp; Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb.

The high court in its order said," The Government of Pakistan shall once again inform Commander Jadhav regarding his rights under Article 36 of the Convention and the judgment of the International Court will also be brought to his attention. He shall be specifically informed regarding his right to avail the statutory remedy provided under the Ordinance of 2020 and to authorize the Government of India to arrange legal representation on his behalf."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-high-court-adjourns-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-till-september-3-317861">Islamabad High Court adjourns Kulbhushan Jadhav case till September 3</a>

Pakistani govt had gone to Islamabad high court to get a lawyer under an ordinance announced by it in May. The ordinance sought to implement the international court of justice verdict of last year that called for the review of the order given out by a military court on Jadhav.

The order asked Pakistani govt to communicate High court's order to Indian govt and it "shall be at liberty to make appropriate arrangements on behalf of" Jadhav in the "context of the Convention, read with the statutory right made available under the Ordinance of 2020, so as to give effect to the judgment of the International Court."

India did try to file a petition on 18th July via its Pakistani lawyer under the ordinance but in absence of power of attorney and supporting legal documents, this could not be done. The ordinance had a time period of 60 days with 20th July being the last date to file the petition.

While Pakistan had called Indian diplomats to meet also before the ordinance expires, the Ministry of external affairs has said that the meet was scuttled by Pakistan authorities. The MEA said, "The Consular Officers were instructed not to hand over any document to Shri Jadhav. Hence, the Indian Consular Officers could not obtain a Power of Attorney from Shri Jadhav."

The Islamabad high court also said that it expects "right to a fair trial" for Jadhav "will be respected and utmost care will be exercised while making statements, verbal or in writing, reporting by print and electronic media".

The next hearing of the case at the Islamabad HC will take place on September 3 at 2:30 PM Indian Standard Time. 
&nbsp;

A special bench of Islamabad high court on Monday directed Pakistani govt to not only inform Kulbhushan Jadhav of his right to avail "statutory remedy" but also "authorize" Indian govt to arrange a lawyer for the case.

A special bench of Islamabad high court on Monday directed Pakistani govt to not only inform Kulbhushan Jadhav of his right to avail "statutory remedy" but also "authorize" Indian govt to arrange a lawyer for the case. The special bench consisted of Islamabad high court Chief Justice Athar Minallah & Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb. The high court in its order said," The Government of Pakistan shall once again inform Commander Jadhav regarding his rights under Article 36 of the Convention and the judgment of the International Court will also be brought to his attention. He shall be specifically informed regarding his right to avail the statutory remedy provided under the Ordinance of 2020 and to authorize the Government of India to arrange legal representation on his behalf." Also read | Islamabad High Court adjourns Kulbhushan Jadhav case till September 3 Pakistani govt had gone to Islamabad high court to get a lawyer under an ordinance announced by it in May. The ordinance sought to implement the international court of justice verdict of last year that called for the review of the order given out by a military court on Jadhav. The order asked Pakistani govt to communicate High court's order to Indian govt and it "shall be at liberty to make appropriate arrangements on behalf of" Jadhav in the "context of the Convention, read with the statutory right made available under the Ordinance of 2020, so as to give effect to the judgment of the International Court." India did try to file a petition on 18th July via its Pakistani lawyer under the ordinance but in absence of power of attorney and supporting legal documents, this could not be done. The ordinance had a time period of 60 days with 20th July being the last date to file the petition. While Pakistan had called Indian diplomats to meet also before the ordinance expires, the Ministry of external affairs has said that the meet was scuttled by Pakistan authorities. The MEA said, "The Consular Officers were instructed not to hand over any document to Shri Jadhav. Hence, the Indian Consular Officers could not obtain a Power of Attorney from Shri Jadhav." The Islamabad high court also said that it expects "right to a fair trial" for Jadhav "will be respected and utmost care will be exercised while making statements, verbal or in writing, reporting by print and electronic media". The next hearing of the case at the Islamabad HC will take place on September 3 at 2:30 PM Indian Standard Time.

Kulbhushan Jadhav case: Islamabad HC directs Pak govt to 'authorise' India to arrange lawyer

Religious journals in Pakistan are voicing discontentment over atrocities against Uighur Muslims by the Chinese government in the restive western province of Xinjiang, authorities in Pakistan have found.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan journals call for upholding Uighurs' religious freedom

Pakistan has recorded 553 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the country's COVID-19 caseload to 279,699, officials said on Sunday.

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in its update on the second day of Eid al-Adha reported that six more people lost their lives due to the contagion, taking the death toll to 5,976.

It said that 248,577 people have so far recovered across the country. The total number of active cases was 25,146. 
There was no patient on ventilator in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan. Elsewhere in the country, 225 ventilators are occupied.

Out of the total cases, 121,309 were in Sindh, 93,173 in Punjab, 34,160 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 15,052 in Islamabad, 11,762 in Balochistan, 2,157 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 2,086 in PoK.

The authorities have performed a total of 20,10,170 tests across the country.

The data showed that 1,618 patients are admitted in 735 hospitals with COVID-19 facilities across the country. Other infected people were recuperating in their homes.

Pakistan has recorded 553 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the country's COVID-19 caseload to 279,699, officials said on Sunday. The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in its update on the second day of Eid al-Adha reported that six more people lost their lives due to the contagion, taking the death toll to 5,976.

Pakistan has recorded 553 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the country's COVID-19 caseload to 279,699, officials said on Sunday. The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) in its update on the second day of Eid al-Adha reported that six more people lost their lives due to the contagion, taking the death toll to 5,976. It said that 248,577 people have so far recovered across the country. The total number of active cases was 25,146. There was no patient on ventilator in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan. Elsewhere in the country, 225 ventilators are occupied. Out of the total cases, 121,309 were in Sindh, 93,173 in Punjab, 34,160 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 15,052 in Islamabad, 11,762 in Balochistan, 2,157 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 2,086 in PoK. The authorities have performed a total of 20,10,170 tests across the country. The data showed that 1,618 patients are admitted in 735 hospitals with COVID-19 facilities across the country. Other infected people were recuperating in their homes.

Pakistan reports 553 new COVID-19 patients, tally stands at 279,669

Officials said that in recent years at least 15 civilians have been killed in some clashes along the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Officials say, "15 Afghan civilians die after border clashes with Pakistan"

Afghanistan accused Pakistan on Friday of killing 15 civilians during clashes at a border crossing where crowds were jostling to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha.

On Pakistan`s side, hospital officials reported seven deaths from the flare-up between the Asian neighbours who are U.S. allies but often trade accusations of backing militants.

The governor of Afghanistan`s southeastern Kandahar province, Hayatullah Hayat, said shells fell on homes in the border town Spin Boldak, with women and children among 15 dead and 80 hurt, during the clashes between both nations` security forces.

In Pakistan, medics said seven people had died and 31 were brought in with bullet wounds.

The violence flared when crowds waiting to cross into Afghanistan became unruly and attacked Pakistani installations, said a senior official in the Pakistani border town Chaman.

"If the Pakistani military continues its rocket attacks on Afghan territory, they will face retaliation by the Afghan army," Afghanistan`s defence ministry said in a statement.

SELF-DEFENCE

Pakistan`s foreign ministry said Afghan forces had opened fire on the crowd. "Pakistan troops responded to protect our local population and acted only in self-defence," it said, adding that Pakistan immediately activated military and diplomatic channels to deescalate the situation.

However, protesters told Reuters by phone that the Pakistani security forces had opened fire on the crowd first.

The crossing, mostly shut during the COVID-19 pandemic, was briefly opened on Wednesday and had been due to reopen on Thursday to allow nationals of both countries to cross for Eid, which falls on Friday in Afghanistan and Saturday in Pakistan.

When it did not open, a large crowd gathered to protest, and a quarantine centre and Pakistani government facility for processing crossings were burned down, the Chaman official said.

People on both sides, with close family and tribal ties, have for decades moved freely across the border. But security and monitoring have tightened recently as both nations have accused each other of providing safe havens for extremists.

Afghanistan accused Pakistan on Friday of killing 15 civilians during clashes at a border crossing where crowds were jostling to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha.

Afghanistan accused Pakistan on Friday of killing 15 civilians during clashes at a border crossing where crowds were jostling to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha. On Pakistan`s side, hospital officials reported seven deaths from the flare-up between the Asian neighbours who are U.S. allies but often trade accusations of backing militants. The governor of Afghanistan`s southeastern Kandahar province, Hayatullah Hayat, said shells fell on homes in the border town Spin Boldak, with women and children among 15 dead and 80 hurt, during the clashes between both nations` security forces. In Pakistan, medics said seven people had died and 31 were brought in with bullet wounds. The violence flared when crowds waiting to cross into Afghanistan became unruly and attacked Pakistani installations, said a senior official in the Pakistani border town Chaman. "If the Pakistani military continues its rocket attacks on Afghan territory, they will face retaliation by the Afghan army," Afghanistan`s defence ministry said in a statement. SELF-DEFENCE Pakistan`s foreign ministry said Afghan forces had opened fire on the crowd. "Pakistan troops responded to protect our local population and acted only in self-defence," it said, adding that Pakistan immediately activated military and diplomatic channels to deescalate the situation. However, protesters told Reuters by phone that the Pakistani security forces had opened fire on the crowd first. The crossing, mostly shut during the COVID-19 pandemic, was briefly opened on Wednesday and had been due to reopen on Thursday to allow nationals of both countries to cross for Eid, which falls on Friday in Afghanistan and Saturday in Pakistan. When it did not open, a large crowd gathered to protest, and a quarantine centre and Pakistani government facility for processing crossings were burned down, the Chaman official said. People on both sides, with close family and tribal ties, have for decades moved freely across the border. But security and monitoring have tightened recently as both nations have accused each other of providing safe havens for extremists.

At least 22 have died in border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan

The 2500-km-long Durand Line is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Currently, this border is burning due to cross-border firing.

Pakistani shelling has killed 15 Afghan nationals in the Spin Boldak area.&nbsp;

Women and children are among the people who were killed in the firing.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-artillery-kills-15-civilians-in-afghanistan-says-kabul-317270">Pakistan artillery kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan, says Kabul</a>

Afghanistan says 80 people have also been injured.&nbsp;

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Pakistan, on the other hand, says Afghan firing has killed four people and injured 28 others.&nbsp;

Let's understand what exactly happened.&nbsp;

The Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing is one of the most popular of the 14 entry, exit points that the two countries share.

On July 30, there were clashes between the security forces from the two sides.&nbsp;

It started after protestors tried to remove barricades to cross the border because they wanted to cross the border over for Eid.&nbsp;

The Durand Line is a porous border, especially in areas like Chaman.&nbsp;

There is free movement of daily wage labourers. At many points, the border crosses through villages.&nbsp;

But this border has been shut for weeks now because of the Wuhan virus pandemic.&nbsp;

It is a situation that villagers are not used to.

The border was briefly opened on Wednesday and Thursday to allow people to cross for Eid.

However, it was closed before everyone could cross over, which triggered a protest that soon snowballed into clashes.&nbsp;

History tells us that this line was drawn by the British and Afghan authorities question its legitimacy.&nbsp;

Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of supporting the Taliban, while Pakistan does not shy away from cross-border shelling.&nbsp;

On July 24, Afghanistan lodged a complaint with the UNSC. It was after Pakistani forces reportedly fired mortar shells into Afghanistan's Sarakano district.

Pakistan is now firing at civilians in Kandahar.

The question is: Can Pakistan not refrain from violence even during its most auspicious festival of Eid? 
&nbsp;

The 2500-km-long Durand Line is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Currently, this border is burning due to cross-border firing. Pakistani shelling has killed 15 Afghan nationals in the Spin Boldak area.

The 2500-km-long Durand Line is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Currently, this border is burning due to cross-border firing. Pakistani shelling has killed 15 Afghan nationals in the Spin Boldak area. Women and children are among the people who were killed in the firing. Also read | Pakistan artillery kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan, says Kabul Afghanistan says 80 people have also been injured. × Pakistan, on the other hand, says Afghan firing has killed four people and injured 28 others. Let's understand what exactly happened. The Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing is one of the most popular of the 14 entry, exit points that the two countries share. On July 30, there were clashes between the security forces from the two sides. It started after protestors tried to remove barricades to cross the border because they wanted to cross the border over for Eid. The Durand Line is a porous border, especially in areas like Chaman. There is free movement of daily wage labourers. At many points, the border crosses through villages. But this border has been shut for weeks now because of the Wuhan virus pandemic. It is a situation that villagers are not used to. The border was briefly opened on Wednesday and Thursday to allow people to cross for Eid. However, it was closed before everyone could cross over, which triggered a protest that soon snowballed into clashes. History tells us that this line was drawn by the British and Afghan authorities question its legitimacy. Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of supporting the Taliban, while Pakistan does not shy away from cross-border shelling. On July 24, Afghanistan lodged a complaint with the UNSC. It was after Pakistani forces reportedly fired mortar shells into Afghanistan's Sarakano district. Pakistan is now firing at civilians in Kandahar. The question is: Can Pakistan not refrain from violence even during its most auspicious festival of Eid?

Decoding the cross-border firing in Afghanistan-Pakistan border

Thousands of people in northwestern Pakistan rallied on Friday in support of the man who allegedly killed a US citizen inside a courtroom in the city of Peshawar. 
&nbsp; 
The demonstrators in Karachi were praising the accused for the killing, demanding his immediate release from jail and saying he did what was expected of the government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/welcome-to-pakistan-a-state-where-murder-in-courtroom-is-celebrated-317118">Welcome to Pakistan: A state where murder in courtroom is celebrated</a>

"We are not in favour of taking the law into our own hands, but he did what the government should have done two years ago," said Mufti Shahabuddin Popalzai, who led the rally, told the news agency the Associated Press.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-citizen-accused-of-blasphemy-shot-dead-in-pakistan-courtroom-316959">US citizen accused of blasphemy shot dead in Pakistan courtroom</a>&nbsp;

Tahir Naseem, a US citizen, was gunned down in a courtroom on Thursday during his trial for blasphemy.&nbsp;

He died before he was taken to hospital and the gunman was arrested.&nbsp;

On Thursday too, several people in the social media and politicians lauded the accused of committing the crime.&nbsp;

The US Statement also reacted strongly against the killing and asked Pakistan to reform "often-abused" blasphemy laws.&nbsp;

"We are shocked, saddened, and outraged that American citizen Tahir Naseem was killed yesterday inside a Pakistani courtroom," the State Department said, in a statement, on Thursday.

The statement also said the victim was "lured to Pakistan" from his home in Illinois and was entrapped by the controversial law.&nbsp;

"We urge Pakistan to immediately reform its often abused blasphemy laws and its court system, which allow such abuses to occur, and to ensure that the suspect is prosecuted to the full extent of the law," the statement said.

Naseem was facing a trial after it was alleged that he declared himself Islam's prophet.&nbsp;

The blasphemy law in Pakistan has been criticised a lot by human rights activists and other nations, which even result in a death sentence.

Also, often, the mere allegation of insulting Islam has led to vigilantes and mobs brutally killing the accused.

Thousands of people in northwestern Pakistan rallied on Friday in support of the man who allegedly killed a US citizen inside a courtroom in the city of Peshawar.

Thousands of people in northwestern Pakistan rallied on Friday in support of the man who allegedly killed a US citizen inside a courtroom in the city of Peshawar. The demonstrators in Karachi were praising the accused for the killing, demanding his immediate release from jail and saying he did what was expected of the government. Also read | Welcome to Pakistan: A state where murder in courtroom is celebrated "We are not in favour of taking the law into our own hands, but he did what the government should have done two years ago," said Mufti Shahabuddin Popalzai, who led the rally, told the news agency the Associated Press. Also read | US citizen accused of blasphemy shot dead in Pakistan courtroom Tahir Naseem, a US citizen, was gunned down in a courtroom on Thursday during his trial for blasphemy. He died before he was taken to hospital and the gunman was arrested. On Thursday too, several people in the social media and politicians lauded the accused of committing the crime. The US Statement also reacted strongly against the killing and asked Pakistan to reform "often-abused" blasphemy laws. "We are shocked, saddened, and outraged that American citizen Tahir Naseem was killed yesterday inside a Pakistani courtroom," the State Department said, in a statement, on Thursday. The statement also said the victim was "lured to Pakistan" from his home in Illinois and was entrapped by the controversial law. "We urge Pakistan to immediately reform its often abused blasphemy laws and its court system, which allow such abuses to occur, and to ensure that the suspect is prosecuted to the full extent of the law," the statement said. Naseem was facing a trial after it was alleged that he declared himself Islam's prophet. The blasphemy law in Pakistan has been criticised a lot by human rights activists and other nations, which even result in a death sentence. Also, often, the mere allegation of insulting Islam has led to vigilantes and mobs brutally killing the accused.

Pakistan: Thousands rally for accused in US citizen murder case

A US citizen accused of blasphemy was shot dead by a Pakistani extremist inside a courtroom. Pakistani leaders are hailing the murderer as a hero & role model. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story.

Gravitas: This Pakistani man killed a US citizen in a court

Take a look at Pakistan's new youth icon, national hero: Khalid Khan. He is literally being lionised as social media is flooded with the image of Khalid with a lion in the background.&nbsp;

There are virtual rose petals being showered on him and called as 'Aashiq-e-Rasool' (Lover of the Prophet). Even Pakistani leaders are singing praises for this young man.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-this-pakistani-man-killed-a-us-citizen-in-a-court-317114/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The reason being Khalid receiving so much love and affection is because he killed a man, inside a Peshawar courtroom, in front of a judge on Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-citizen-accused-of-blasphemy-shot-dead-in-pakistan-courtroom-316959">US citizen accused of blasphemy shot dead in Pakistan courtroom</a>

The man who was murdered is Tahir Ahmad Naseem, a US citizen. Tahir was formerly as Ahmadiyya Muslim, the most persecuted community in Pakistan.

He was booked for blasphemy in 2018 for allegedly claiming to be the ''last prophet of Islam".

Reports suggest he was mentally ill and the law under which he was booked could have given him death sentence anyway.&nbsp;

However, none of this matters in Pakistan.

In Pakistan, an act of blasphemy risks a violent and bloody death at the hands of vigilantes.&nbsp;

Visuals tell us that a man was killed inside a courtroom before his trial ended and Pakistan is celebrating this killing.&nbsp;

These instances speak for themselves what decades of religious polarisation could do.&nbsp;

Many such religious groups in Pakistan have routinely abused blasphemy laws to target the Ahmadiyya community and minorities.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, a Christian man was gunned down in Peshawar because he bought a house in a Muslim neighbourhood.&nbsp;

Another Christian man, a pastor and his wife, who were accused of land grab, were beaten and driven away by their Muslim neighbours in a village in eastern Punjab.&nbsp;

If this looks appalling, then how can one describe Shahbaz Bhatti's killing.

Shahbaz was Pakistan's first federal minister for minorities affairs.

He was the only Christian in the Pakistan cabinet till 2011, who was shot dead by extremists for criticising blasphemy laws.&nbsp;

If a minister faces such violence, forget about the security of a common man.&nbsp;

Let's look at some of the facts.

Since 1987, more than 1,500 people in Pakistan have been accused of blasphemy.&nbsp;

Nearly 50 per cent of these accused belong to the minority communities, despite the fact that minorities make up only three per cent of Pakistan's total population.&nbsp;

A US watchdog on religious freedom estimates that at least 80 individuals remain in Pakistani prisons on blasphemy charges and around half of them face a life sentence or the death penalty.

Many of these cases don't reach their logical conclusion as extremists like Khalid take matters into their own hands and then declared national heroes.&nbsp;

Take a look at Pakistan's new youth icon, national hero: Khalid Khan. He is literally being lionised as social media is flooded with the image of Khalid with a lion in the background.

Take a look at Pakistan's new youth icon, national hero: Khalid Khan. He is literally being lionised as social media is flooded with the image of Khalid with a lion in the background. There are virtual rose petals being showered on him and called as 'Aashiq-e-Rasool' (Lover of the Prophet). Even Pakistani leaders are singing praises for this young man. Watch | The reason being Khalid receiving so much love and affection is because he killed a man, inside a Peshawar courtroom, in front of a judge on Wednesday afternoon. Also read | US citizen accused of blasphemy shot dead in Pakistan courtroom The man who was murdered is Tahir Ahmad Naseem, a US citizen. Tahir was formerly as Ahmadiyya Muslim, the most persecuted community in Pakistan. He was booked for blasphemy in 2018 for allegedly claiming to be the ''last prophet of Islam". Reports suggest he was mentally ill and the law under which he was booked could have given him death sentence anyway. However, none of this matters in Pakistan. In Pakistan, an act of blasphemy risks a violent and bloody death at the hands of vigilantes. Visuals tell us that a man was killed inside a courtroom before his trial ended and Pakistan is celebrating this killing. These instances speak for themselves what decades of religious polarisation could do. Many such religious groups in Pakistan have routinely abused blasphemy laws to target the Ahmadiyya community and minorities. Earlier this month, a Christian man was gunned down in Peshawar because he bought a house in a Muslim neighbourhood. Another Christian man, a pastor and his wife, who were accused of land grab, were beaten and driven away by their Muslim neighbours in a village in eastern Punjab. If this looks appalling, then how can one describe Shahbaz Bhatti's killing. Shahbaz was Pakistan's first federal minister for minorities affairs. He was the only Christian in the Pakistan cabinet till 2011, who was shot dead by extremists for criticising blasphemy laws. If a minister faces such violence, forget about the security of a common man. Let's look at some of the facts. Since 1987, more than 1,500 people in Pakistan have been accused of blasphemy. Nearly 50 per cent of these accused belong to the minority communities, despite the fact that minorities make up only three per cent of Pakistan's total population. A US watchdog on religious freedom estimates that at least 80 individuals remain in Pakistani prisons on blasphemy charges and around half of them face a life sentence or the death penalty. Many of these cases don't reach their logical conclusion as extremists like Khalid take matters into their own hands and then declared national heroes.

Welcome to Pakistan: A state where murder in courtroom is celebrated

Cross-border artillery fire by Pakistan killed at least 15 civilians in Afghanistan on Thursday, Afghan officials said, prompting Kabul to put its ground and air forces on alert.

The artillery fire came after clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces at the closed Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, where crowds on both sides were waiting to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha.

"If the Pakistani military continues its rocket attacks on Afghan territory, they will face retaliation by the Afghan army," Afghanistan's defence ministry said in a statement.

Pakistan's foreign office and military did not immediately respond to Reuters` requests for comment, but Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told reporters that the matter had been taken up with Afghan authorities and hoped it would be resolved amicably.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are both U.S. allies but their relations have rarely been close.

Afghanistan has for years accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban militants. Pakistan denies doing so and in turn accuses Afghanistan of supporting militants fighting the Pakistani government.

The governor of the southeastern Afghan province of Kandahar, Hayatullah Hayat, said the shells fell in residential areas of Spin Boldak and that women and children were among the 15 dead and 80 wounded.

Hospital officials in Pakistan told Reuters three bodies and 20 people suffering bullet wounds had been brought after the clashes between protesters and security forces.

They exchanged fire when crowds waiting to cross into Afghanistan became unruly and attacked Pakistani installations, a Pakistani official said.

The crossing, mostly closed to pedestrians during the COVID-19 pandemic, was briefly opened on Wednesday and was to open again Thursday to allow nationals of both countries to cross for Eid, which falls on Friday in Afghanistan and Saturday in Pakistan.

When it did not open, a large crowd gathered to protest, and a quarantine centre and a Pakistani government facility for processing movement at the crossing were burned down, a Pakistani official at the border told Reuters.

An official of the Chaman administration, Zakaullah Durrani, told Reuters that the situation on the border remained tense.

Cross-border artillery fire by Pakistan killed at least 15 civilians in Afghanistan on Thursday, Afghan officials said, prompting Kabul to put its ground and air forces on alert.

Cross-border artillery fire by Pakistan killed at least 15 civilians in Afghanistan on Thursday, Afghan officials said, prompting Kabul to put its ground and air forces on alert. The artillery fire came after clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces at the closed Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing, where crowds on both sides were waiting to cross for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha. "If the Pakistani military continues its rocket attacks on Afghan territory, they will face retaliation by the Afghan army," Afghanistan's defence ministry said in a statement. Pakistan's foreign office and military did not immediately respond to Reuters` requests for comment, but Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told reporters that the matter had been taken up with Afghan authorities and hoped it would be resolved amicably. Pakistan and Afghanistan are both U.S. allies but their relations have rarely been close. Afghanistan has for years accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban militants. Pakistan denies doing so and in turn accuses Afghanistan of supporting militants fighting the Pakistani government. The governor of the southeastern Afghan province of Kandahar, Hayatullah Hayat, said the shells fell in residential areas of Spin Boldak and that women and children were among the 15 dead and 80 wounded. Hospital officials in Pakistan told Reuters three bodies and 20 people suffering bullet wounds had been brought after the clashes between protesters and security forces. They exchanged fire when crowds waiting to cross into Afghanistan became unruly and attacked Pakistani installations, a Pakistani official said. The crossing, mostly closed to pedestrians during the COVID-19 pandemic, was briefly opened on Wednesday and was to open again Thursday to allow nationals of both countries to cross for Eid, which falls on Friday in Afghanistan and Saturday in Pakistan. When it did not open, a large crowd gathered to protest, and a quarantine centre and a Pakistani government facility for processing movement at the crossing were burned down, a Pakistani official at the border told Reuters. An official of the Chaman administration, Zakaullah Durrani, told Reuters that the situation on the border remained tense.

Pakistan artillery kills 15 civilians in Afghanistan, says Kabul

Who would have thought months ago that a car-wash would be cleaning not just a four-wheeler, but animals with four legs too?

Pakistan, from Friday, will be celebrating Eid al-Adha, which lasts for three days and Sagheer, a car-wash owner in Pakistan's Karachi is seeing customers who are bringing cattle, sheep and goats for cleaning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-declare-three-day-ceasefire-in-afghanistan-for-eid-al-adha-316570">Taliban declare three-day ceasefire in Afghanistan for Eid al-Adha</a>

He said this trend started after some people saw him cleaning his sacrificial animal ahead of Eid.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-virus-deaths-drop-but-government-warns-of-eid-spike-316130">Pakistan virus deaths drop, but government warns of Eid spike</a>

"The people who saw me washing the animal came to me with their own... that's how this trend started," Sagheer told news agency AFP.

Several animals for Eid, a festival of animals' sacrifice, come from a huge market on the outskirts of Karachi, known as as the largest such bazaar in Asia.&nbsp;

Animals are often filled with dirt, dust and dung and in times of coronavirus pandemic, hygiene has become paramount.&nbsp;

"I make it a point to sanitise the animal with disinfectants," Sagheer said, who also washes the animals from a pressure hose, a lather with suds, a rinse and a scrub.&nbsp;

He charges Rs 100 (nearly 60 cents), which according to Mohammad Uzair, a customer, is "nothing".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Who would have thought months ago that a car-wash would be cleaning not just a four-wheeler, but animals with four legs too? Pakistan, from Friday, will be celebrating Eid al-Adha, which lasts for three days and Sagheer, a car-wash owner in Pakistan's Karachi is seeing customers who are bringing cattle, sheep and goats for cleaning.

Who would have thought months ago that a car-wash would be cleaning not just a four-wheeler, but animals with four legs too? Pakistan, from Friday, will be celebrating Eid al-Adha, which lasts for three days and Sagheer, a car-wash owner in Pakistan's Karachi is seeing customers who are bringing cattle, sheep and goats for cleaning. Also read | Taliban declare three-day ceasefire in Afghanistan for Eid al-Adha He said this trend started after some people saw him cleaning his sacrificial animal ahead of Eid. Also read | Pakistan virus deaths drop, but government warns of Eid spike "The people who saw me washing the animal came to me with their own... that's how this trend started," Sagheer told news agency AFP. Several animals for Eid, a festival of animals' sacrifice, come from a huge market on the outskirts of Karachi, known as as the largest such bazaar in Asia. Animals are often filled with dirt, dust and dung and in times of coronavirus pandemic, hygiene has become paramount. "I make it a point to sanitise the animal with disinfectants," Sagheer said, who also washes the animals from a pressure hose, a lather with suds, a rinse and a scrub. He charges Rs 100 (nearly 60 cents), which according to Mohammad Uzair, a customer, is "nothing".

As Pakistan gears up to celebrate Eid, car wash becomes cleaning centre for animals

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