Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Party has demanded that the government allow unrestricted access to Imran Khan for meetings without surveillance. This comes amid ongoing talks to bring down the political temperature since Imran Khan's arrest last year in various cases. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: PTI demands unrestricted access to Imran Khan

In other news, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Party has demanded that the government allow unrestricted access to Imran Khan for meetings without any surveillance. This comes amid ongoing talks to bring down the political temperature since Imran Khan's arrest last year in various cases. PTI's relations with the government and authorities have worsened. Demonstrations have frequently turned violent, and the party has accused the government of repression. In response, Imran Khan established a five-member committee to engage in talks with the government, aiming to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: PTI demands unfettered access to Imran Khan amid stalled talks

ANI | Talks between the Pakistani government and opposition parties, particularly Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have hit a roadblock, with allegations of government interference and restrictions on the party's access to its jailed leader, Imran Khan, Dawn reported.
Aleema Khan, the sister of the PTI founder, recently revealed that the former prime minister was offered a deal to move from Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail to house arrest at his Banigala residence.
In a statement on Tuesday, Aleema Khan claimed that several offers had been relayed to her brother via Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. These offers, she said, came with the suggestion that Imran Khan remain silent, possibly in exchange for house arrest. However, she questioned how her brother could accept such a deal after spending so long in jail.
Last week, both the government and PTI denied any official offer to transfer Imran Khan to Banigala or any other location. Aleema's claims have added to the already tense situation surrounding the negotiations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-imran-khan-claims-was-offered-to-leave-pakistan-for-3-years-8591710">Former PM Imran Khan claims 'was offered to leave Pakistan for 3 years'</a>
Despite the high-stakes nature of these discussions, PTI negotiators have been pushing for "unmonitored access" to their leader, as talks continue with the government. After negotiations resumed in late December, PTI representatives met Imran Khan on Tuesday but were dissatisfied with the conditions, particularly the alleged surveillance of the meeting room.
PTI leader Omar Ayub made it clear that the team had specifically requested unmonitored access, but government representatives had denied the request.&nbsp;
Ayub claimed that the presence of spy equipment hindered their discussions with the jailed leader, preventing open and candid dialogue.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-drastically-reduces-pensions-benefits-of-retired-civil-armed-forces-personnel-8585502">Pakistan drastically reduces pensions benefits of retired civil and armed forces personnel: Reports</a>
Furthermore, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, the PTI interim chairman, emphasised the need to resolve tensions, urging the government not to make an issue out of the failure to provide written demands from the opposition.
PTI had already shared its two main demands -- the release of political prisoners and the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the violence on May 9 and November 26.&nbsp;
Barrister Salman Akram Raja expressed concern over the government's refusal to allow unrestricted access to Imran Khan, citing it as an indication of questionable government intentions, reported Dawn.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tehreek-e-taliban-pakistan-issues-warning-to-ruling-parties-in-pakistan-8596038">Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan issues warning to ruling parties in Pakistan</a>
Meanwhile, Imran Khan has turned to the legal system to address what he deems inhumane treatment in jail. The former prime minister filed a petition in Islamabad's Special Judge Central Court, accusing jail authorities of denying him basic rights under the jail manual and related laws.&nbsp;
In his petition, Imran Khan's legal team cited multiple grievances, including the restriction on his weekly phone calls to his children in the United Kingdom and the refusal to allow visits from his personal doctor. The petition also highlighted his inability to access newspapers, reading materials, or television.
The former prime minister's legal team argued that he was being kept in isolation, further cutting him off from the outside world. Imran Khan has accused the government of politically motivated persecution, claiming the authorities' actions were designed to weaken his resolve and prevent him from engaging with the political sphere.
The petition requested the court to direct jail authorities to allow the jailed leader to have phone calls with his children, receive medical attention from his personal doctor, and regain access to television, in line with the provisions of the jail manual.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-slams-imran-khan-for-begging-for-us-help-8574869">Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Imran Khan for 'begging' for US' help</a>
In a related matter, Islamabad's Additional Sessions Court recently adjourned the pre-arrest bail applications of Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, until January 28. The cases concern charges related to the protests that occurred in the federal capital.
During the proceedings, Bushra Bibi's legal team requested an exemption from attending the hearings in person, a request that was granted by the court. The judge confirmed that all bail applications, including those for Mr. Khan, would be considered together during the next session, Dawn reported.
Furthermore, the court confirmed that the PTI leader's video presence would be required for the next hearing. With both political negotiations and legal proceedings ongoing, the outcome of these efforts remains uncertain, adding to the complexity of Pakistan's already fraught political landscape.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI 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.

South Asia: Aleema Khan, sister of Imran Khan revealed that the former PM was offered a deal to move from Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail to house arrest at his Banigala residence.

ANI | Talks between the Pakistani government and opposition parties, particularly Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have hit a roadblock, with allegations of government interference and restrictions on the party's access to its jailed leader, Imran Khan, Dawn reported. Aleema Khan, the sister of the PTI founder, recently revealed that the former prime minister was offered a deal to move from Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail to house arrest at his Banigala residence. In a statement on Tuesday, Aleema Khan claimed that several offers had been relayed to her brother via Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. These offers, she said, came with the suggestion that Imran Khan remain silent, possibly in exchange for house arrest. However, she questioned how her brother could accept such a deal after spending so long in jail. Last week, both the government and PTI denied any official offer to transfer Imran Khan to Banigala or any other location. Aleema's claims have added to the already tense situation surrounding the negotiations. Also read: Former PM Imran Khan claims 'was offered to leave Pakistan for 3 years' Despite the high-stakes nature of these discussions, PTI negotiators have been pushing for "unmonitored access" to their leader, as talks continue with the government. After negotiations resumed in late December, PTI representatives met Imran Khan on Tuesday but were dissatisfied with the conditions, particularly the alleged surveillance of the meeting room. PTI leader Omar Ayub made it clear that the team had specifically requested unmonitored access, but government representatives had denied the request. Ayub claimed that the presence of spy equipment hindered their discussions with the jailed leader, preventing open and candid dialogue. Also read: Pakistan drastically reduces pensions benefits of retired civil and armed forces personnel: Reports Furthermore, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, the PTI interim chairman, emphasised the need to resolve tensions, urging the government not to make an issue out of the failure to provide written demands from the opposition. PTI had already shared its two main demands -- the release of political prisoners and the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the violence on May 9 and November 26. Barrister Salman Akram Raja expressed concern over the government's refusal to allow unrestricted access to Imran Khan, citing it as an indication of questionable government intentions, reported Dawn. Also read: Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan issues warning to ruling parties in Pakistan Meanwhile, Imran Khan has turned to the legal system to address what he deems inhumane treatment in jail. The former prime minister filed a petition in Islamabad's Special Judge Central Court, accusing jail authorities of denying him basic rights under the jail manual and related laws. In his petition, Imran Khan's legal team cited multiple grievances, including the restriction on his weekly phone calls to his children in the United Kingdom and the refusal to allow visits from his personal doctor. The petition also highlighted his inability to access newspapers, reading materials, or television. The former prime minister's legal team argued that he was being kept in isolation, further cutting him off from the outside world. Imran Khan has accused the government of politically motivated persecution, claiming the authorities' actions were designed to weaken his resolve and prevent him from engaging with the political sphere. The petition requested the court to direct jail authorities to allow the jailed leader to have phone calls with his children, receive medical attention from his personal doctor, and regain access to television, in line with the provisions of the jail manual. Also read: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Imran Khan for 'begging' for US' help In a related matter, Islamabad's Additional Sessions Court recently adjourned the pre-arrest bail applications of Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, until January 28. The cases concern charges related to the protests that occurred in the federal capital. During the proceedings, Bushra Bibi's legal team requested an exemption from attending the hearings in person, a request that was granted by the court. The judge confirmed that all bail applications, including those for Mr. Khan, would be considered together during the next session, Dawn reported. Furthermore, the court confirmed that the PTI leader's video presence would be required for the next hearing. With both political negotiations and legal proceedings ongoing, the outcome of these efforts remains uncertain, adding to the complexity of Pakistan's already fraught political landscape. Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI 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.

Imran Khan's PTI asks for unrestricted access to him for talks

The ongoing power crisis in the Gilgit Baltistan region has paralyzed the Pakistan-China trade. Hundreds of trucks are stranded at the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as the main highway in Gilgit Baltistan remains shut for the fifth consecutive day. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: mega protest against power crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan amid winter

Pakistani security forces conducted three intelligence-based operations in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province on Tuesday. At least 19 militants and three soldiers were killed in these operations, according to the Pakistan Army. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: 19 suspected terrorists killed by Pakistan Army in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Hundreds of trucks are stranded at the Pakistan-China border due to ongoing blockages, disrupting trade and causing delays in the flow of goods between the two countries.

Pakistan-China: Hundreds Of Trucks Stranded In Pak-China Border

The Pakistan People's Party has officially announced its decision to oppose the government's policies, signaling a shift in political dynamics and raising concerns about the future direction of the country's governance.

Pakistan People's Party decides to openly oppose government policies

Despite a stunning century from Pakistan captain Shan Masood and a determined batting effort to erase the follow-on deficit, South Africa cruised to a 10-wicket win, securing a dominant 2-0 series victory on home soil. Watch to know more!

SA vs PAK, 2nd Test: South Africa Beats Pakistan, Completes Series Clean Sweep

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has declared an all-out war against the Pakistani Army, threatening military institutions and urging the public to sever ties with military-run enterprises within three months. The TTP has also warned political parties, particularly the Pakistan Muslim League, to stay clear of its conflict with security forces. How will the Pakistani government respond to this escalating threat? And just how powerful is the Pakistani military-industrial complex?

Pakistan-Afghanistan: Taliban declare 360-degree war against Pakistani army

The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has warned Pakistan's political parties, specifically the leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League, not to become part of its war against the security forces. The TTP also issued an ultimatum to the public to end all links to military enterprises within three months, adding that it will target any military institutions in Pakistan. Watch in for more details!

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan issues threats to top Pakistani leadership

Tehreek-E-Taliban Pakistan threatens top Pakistani leadership

Tehreek-E-Taliban Pakistan Warns Muslim League's Leadership; Ultimatum Issued On Army Products

A bomb blast orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) targeted a passenger bus in Balochistan, Pakistan, leaving five people dead and 32 others injured.

Pakistan bus attack: bus carrying paramilitary troops targeted in Balochistan

Elon Musk announces that Starlink is waiting for government approval to launch its services in Pakistan, aiming to provide satellite internet access.

Elon Musk reveals Starlink awaits government approval for Pakistan launch

An Afghan minister cautions Pakistan against testing Afghanistan's patience as tensions between the two nations escalate.

Afghanistan-Pakistan: Afghan minister warns Pakistan not to test patience amid rising tensions

Balochistan liberation army targets paramilitary bus in deadly attack

At least six people including Pakistani paramilitary troops were killed and scores injured Saturday, in a bombing claimed by separatists in volatile southwestern Balochistan province, officials said.
A bus carrying paramilitary troops of the Frontier Corps (FC) was travelling from the port city of Karachi to southwestern Turbat city when it was targeted around seven kilometres (four miles) west of the city.
"At least six people, including FC soldiers and civilians, were killed in a bomb attack on a bus," senior local police official Rashid-ur-Rehman told AFP.
More than 25 were injured in the incident, he said, declining to provide further details.
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A senior local security official told AFP that it was an apparent suicide attack and the paramilitary troops were targeted.
The official also confirmed the death toll to AFP.
Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was a suicide bombing targeting a Pakistani army convoy.
The BLA frequently claims deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces, notably Punjabis in Balochistan province.
Pakistan has witnessed a dramatic uptick in attacks in recent months, particularly in Balochistan and northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;
In 2024 alone, the military has reported 383 soldiers and 925 militants killed in various clashes.&nbsp;
Security forces have been battling sectarian, ethnic and separatist violence for decades in impoverished Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran.
Militants have in the past targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan.
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In November, separatists claimed responsibility for a bombing at Quetta's&nbsp;main railway station that killed at least 26 people, including 14 soldiers.
In August, the BLA claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks by dozens of assailants who killed at least 39 people, one of the highest tolls to hit the region.
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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&nbsp;to better reflect the content of the story&nbsp;or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.
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More than 25 were injured in the incident, he said, declining to provide further details.

At least six people including Pakistani paramilitary troops were killed and scores injured Saturday, in a bombing claimed by separatists in volatile southwestern Balochistan province, officials said. A bus carrying paramilitary troops of the Frontier Corps (FC) was travelling from the port city of Karachi to southwestern Turbat city when it was targeted around seven kilometres (four miles) west of the city. "At least six people, including FC soldiers and civilians, were killed in a bomb attack on a bus," senior local police official Rashid-ur-Rehman told AFP. More than 25 were injured in the incident, he said, declining to provide further details. Also read | Man banned from US airline after urinating on co-passenger A senior local security official told AFP that it was an apparent suicide attack and the paramilitary troops were targeted. The official also confirmed the death toll to AFP. Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was a suicide bombing targeting a Pakistani army convoy. The BLA frequently claims deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces, notably Punjabis in Balochistan province. Pakistan has witnessed a dramatic uptick in attacks in recent months, particularly in Balochistan and northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. In 2024 alone, the military has reported 383 soldiers and 925 militants killed in various clashes. Security forces have been battling sectarian, ethnic and separatist violence for decades in impoverished Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran. Militants have in the past targeted energy projects with foreign financing -- most notably from China -- accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of Pakistan. Also read | US top diplomat Blinken warned Netanyahu, Biden would not visit Israel if they won't allow aid into Gaza In November, separatists claimed responsibility for a bombing at Quetta's main railway station that killed at least 26 people, including 14 soldiers. In August, the BLA claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks by dozens of assailants who killed at least 39 people, one of the highest tolls to hit the region. 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.

Six people, including Pakistani paramilitary troops, killed in blast claimed by Pakistan separatists: Report

Former Pakistan prime minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=imran+khan+" rel="dofollow"> Imran Khan </a>on Friday (Jan 3) claimed that he was offered to leave the country on exile for three years, however, he declined, saying that he will "live and die" in his own country.&nbsp;
The 72-year-old former PM took to X, on Friday and said, &ldquo;I was offered the opportunity of a three-year exile while I was in Attock Jail, but I will live and die in Pakistan.&rdquo;
Later, Khan, while interacting with media persons at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail said that he was "indirectly approached" with an offer to transfer him to his Bani Gala residence in Islamabad.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-slams-imran-khan-for-begging-for-us-help-8574869" rel="dofollow">Also read: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Imran Khan for 'begging' for US' help</a>
Khan is currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail since August 2023.&nbsp;
"My stance is clear: release my detained workers and leaders first. Only then will I consider discussing my personal situation," he said on X.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-military-courts-convict-25-imran-khan-supporters-over-2023-unrest-786032" rel="dofollow">Also read: Pakistan military courts convict 25 Imran Khan supporters over 2023 unrest</a>
<h2>'Decisions should be made within the country'</h2>
The former PM further said that he believes that Pakistan's decisions should be made within the country.&nbsp;
&ldquo;However, when it comes to basic human rights, voices will naturally rise globally. Institutions like the United Nations exist for this purpose. Enlightened people all over the world raise their voices against violation of basic rights," Khan said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/free-imran-khan-trumps-foreign-policy-aide-grenell-backs-jailed-pti-founder-784569" rel="dofollow">Also read: &lsquo;Free Imran Khan,&rsquo; Trump&rsquo;s foreign policy aide Grenell backs jailed PTI founder</a>
He stressed that during his "authoritarian era", the breach of personal freedoms, violation of fundamental legal rights, and destruction of institutions have not only disrupted Pakistan's social and political systems but also its legal and economic frameworks.
&ldquo;The absurd manner in which Khalid Khurshid (former Gilgit-Baltistan chief minister) was sentenced to 34 years in prison demonstrates that there is no rule of law in our country anymore, and a terrible undeclared dictatorship prevails," he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Even in Musharraf&rsquo;s era, we criticised military interference but never faced such oppression and fascism,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

South asia: Imran Khan took to X on Friday and said, “I was offered the opportunity of a three-year exile while I was in Attock Jail, but I will live and die in Pakistan.”

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Friday (Jan 3) claimed that he was offered to leave the country on exile for three years, however, he declined, saying that he will "live and die" in his own country. The 72-year-old former PM took to X, on Friday and said, “I was offered the opportunity of a three-year exile while I was in Attock Jail, but I will live and die in Pakistan.” Later, Khan, while interacting with media persons at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail said that he was "indirectly approached" with an offer to transfer him to his Bani Gala residence in Islamabad. Also read: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams Imran Khan for 'begging' for US' help Khan is currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail since August 2023. "My stance is clear: release my detained workers and leaders first. Only then will I consider discussing my personal situation," he said on X. Also read: Pakistan military courts convict 25 Imran Khan supporters over 2023 unrest 'Decisions should be made within the country' The former PM further said that he believes that Pakistan's decisions should be made within the country. “However, when it comes to basic human rights, voices will naturally rise globally. Institutions like the United Nations exist for this purpose. Enlightened people all over the world raise their voices against violation of basic rights," Khan said. Also read: ‘Free Imran Khan,’ Trump’s foreign policy aide Grenell backs jailed PTI founder He stressed that during his "authoritarian era", the breach of personal freedoms, violation of fundamental legal rights, and destruction of institutions have not only disrupted Pakistan's social and political systems but also its legal and economic frameworks. “The absurd manner in which Khalid Khurshid (former Gilgit-Baltistan chief minister) was sentenced to 34 years in prison demonstrates that there is no rule of law in our country anymore, and a terrible undeclared dictatorship prevails," he said. “Even in Musharraf’s era, we criticised military interference but never faced such oppression and fascism,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Former PM Imran Khan claims 'was offered to leave Pakistan for 3 years'

To transform Pakistan over the next five years, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched a national strategy for expedited economic growth on Tuesday. Sharif declared that the five-year National Economic Transformation Plan, titled "Uraan Pakistan," will guide the nation towards sustainable growth based on macroeconomic stability. Take a look at this next report for more on the details of the plan. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan's New Economic Plan In Focus

The Pakistani government and the PTI party have initiated talks to ease the rising political tensions in the country. This dialogue aims to address key issues and find common ground to restore political stability and peace.

Imran Khan's party to make two 'non-negotiable' demands

Pakistan govt, PTI party hold talks to defuse political tension

After so many deliberations and weeks of discussions, a significant milestone for peace in Kurram was achieved today with the conclusion of a Grand Jirga held in Kohat as both parties involved in the negotiations signed a peace agreement, marking a crucial step toward stability in the region.

Pakistan's Kurram reaches peace deal after weeks of sectarian clashes

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

Pakistan began its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday, with Ambassador Munir Akram saying that the Pakistani delegation will play an "active and constructive" role in addressing key challenges facing the world.&nbsp;
"Our presence will be felt in the Security Council," Ambassador Akram, Pakistan's top diplomat at the UN, told the state-run APP (Associated Press of Pakistan) news agency.
Pakistan will sit in the Security Council for the 2025-26 term as a non-permanent member, the eighth time that the country has had a seat on the 15-member body's horseshoe table.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sit-ins-continue-at-six-locations-of-karachi-8582914" rel="dofollow">Pakistan: Sit-ins continue at six locations in Karachi</a>
In June, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=+Pakistan+" rel="dofollow">Pakistan </a>was elected to the council with a massive majority as a non-permanent member, polling 182 votes in the 193-member General Assembly&mdash;far more than the required 124 votes, representing a two-thirds majority.
"We enter the council at a time of great geopolitical turbulence, intense competition between the two largest powers, raging wars in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere and a sharply escalating and multi-dimensional arms race," Akram said.
"As a responsible State - the fifth largest by population - Pakistan will play an active and constructive role, in accordance with the UN Charter, to halt wars, promote the pacific settlement of disputes and contain the negative impacts of great power rivalries, the arms race, new weapons and domains of conflict as well as the spreading scourge of terrorism," he said.
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>
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar, said that Pakistan begins its term as a non-permanent member of the UNSC with a rich legacy of experience and commitment to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter.
He was addressing a reception hosted at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foreign Office said in a statement.
The event was attended by the heads of resident missions of the UN Security Council Member States in Islamabad and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Dar highlighted Pakistan's contributions to international peace and security, especially through its active role in UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding endeavours around the world.
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Dar said that Pakistan looked forward to "seeking just and peaceful resolution of situations on the agenda of the UN Security Council".
"As a member of the council, Pakistan will continue to oppose the unilateral and illegal use or threat of force; combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations; and support effective UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts," he said.
Pakistan replaced Japan, which currently occupies the Asian seat in the Security Council, a primary instrument for establishing and maintaining international peace.
Pakistan's earlier terms on the council were in 2012-13, 2003-04, 1993-94, 1983-84, 1976-77, 1968-69, and 1952-53.
In the June election in the General Assembly, Pakistan was elected along with Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia to replace Japan, Ecuador, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland, whose terms end on December 31, 2024.
The new members join the five veto-wielding permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom, and France, and the five countries elected as non-permanent members last year, Algeria, Guyana, South Korea, Sierra Leone, and Slovenia.
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.

World, South Asia: Pakistan will sit in the Security Council for the 2025-26 term as a non-permanent member, the eighth time that the country has had a seat on the table.

Pakistan began its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday, with Ambassador Munir Akram saying that the Pakistani delegation will play an "active and constructive" role in addressing key challenges facing the world. "Our presence will be felt in the Security Council," Ambassador Akram, Pakistan's top diplomat at the UN, told the state-run APP (Associated Press of Pakistan) news agency. Pakistan will sit in the Security Council for the 2025-26 term as a non-permanent member, the eighth time that the country has had a seat on the 15-member body's horseshoe table. Also read: Pakistan: Sit-ins continue at six locations in Karachi In June, Pakistan was elected to the council with a massive majority as a non-permanent member, polling 182 votes in the 193-member General Assembly—far more than the required 124 votes, representing a two-thirds majority. "We enter the council at a time of great geopolitical turbulence, intense competition between the two largest powers, raging wars in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere and a sharply escalating and multi-dimensional arms race," Akram said. "As a responsible State - the fifth largest by population - Pakistan will play an active and constructive role, in accordance with the UN Charter, to halt wars, promote the pacific settlement of disputes and contain the negative impacts of great power rivalries, the arms race, new weapons and domains of conflict as well as the spreading scourge of terrorism," he said. Also read: Pakistan witnesses 'deadliest year' for security forces amid violence surge Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar, said that Pakistan begins its term as a non-permanent member of the UNSC with a rich legacy of experience and commitment to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter. He was addressing a reception hosted at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foreign Office said in a statement. The event was attended by the heads of resident missions of the UN Security Council Member States in Islamabad and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dar highlighted Pakistan's contributions to international peace and security, especially through its active role in UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding endeavours around the world. Also read: Border calm as Taliban, Pakistan agree to cease hostilities after fatal clashes Dar said that Pakistan looked forward to "seeking just and peaceful resolution of situations on the agenda of the UN Security Council". "As a member of the council, Pakistan will continue to oppose the unilateral and illegal use or threat of force; combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations; and support effective UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts," he said. Pakistan replaced Japan, which currently occupies the Asian seat in the Security Council, a primary instrument for establishing and maintaining international peace. Pakistan's earlier terms on the council were in 2012-13, 2003-04, 1993-94, 1983-84, 1976-77, 1968-69, and 1952-53. In the June election in the General Assembly, Pakistan was elected along with Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia to replace Japan, Ecuador, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland, whose terms end on December 31, 2024. The new members join the five veto-wielding permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom, and France, and the five countries elected as non-permanent members last year, Algeria, Guyana, South Korea, Sierra Leone, and Slovenia. 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 begins its two-year tenure at UN Security Council as non-permanent member

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been escalating, with new reports suggesting that Pakistan’s defense circles are allegedly planning to seize control of the Wakhan Corridor, a narrow strip of Afghan territory often referred to as the country's "chicken neck." Defense analyst Qamar Cheema has highlighted this claim, and various social media posts suggest that actions may already be underway to take over the strategically significant corridor.

Report Claims Pakistan Planning To Annex Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor

Pakistan and Afghanistan have reportedly agreed to a ceasefire after recent border clashes. This comes after Pakistan reportedly responded with retaliatory fire to firing by Taliban soldiers late on Saturday night. Watch in for more details!

Pakistani Army Allegedly Preparing To Take Control Of Wakhan Corridor

On December 31, 2024, tensions escalated in Karachi, Pakistan, as police clashed with protesters demonstrating against recent killings in Parachinar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kurram District.

Pakistan: Violence Erupts As Police Uses Shelling To Disperse Protester

Pakistan witnessed a rise in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=terror+attacks" rel="dofollow">terror attacks</a>, with at least 685 members of security forces losing their lives in 2024, making it the deadliest year for the civil and military security forces of the country in a decade.&nbsp;
There have been a total of 444 terror attacks in 2024.&nbsp;
Moreover, there were 1,612 fatalities reported this year, accounting for over 63 per cent of the total recorded.
The security forces conducted a total of 59,775 operations this year, during which "925 terrorists" were killed and 383 "brave officers and soldiers lost their lives, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-three-taliban-soldiers-dead-amid-clashes-along-border-8574075" rel="dofollow">One Pakistani, Three Taliban soldiers dead amid clashes along border</a>
The data was revealed by ISPR Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a press conference last week.&nbsp;
Further, the overall fatalities this year broke a nine-year record and were over 66 per cent more than last year.&nbsp;
On average, nearly seven lives were lost daily, with November being the deadliest month compared to all others of 2024.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-launches-strike-at-pakistan-islamabad-retaliates-sources-8572924" rel="dofollow">Afghanistan Taliban forces launch strike at Pakistan; Islamabad retaliates: Sources</a>
Notably, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the violence was at its highest, with 1616 fatalities reported, followed by Balochistan with 782 fatalities.
According to a think tank's report, the country saw 2,546 violence-linked fatalities and 2,267 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws.&nbsp;
As compared to 2023, this year witnessed an over 66 per cent surge in violence, over 55 per cent more injuries, and around 49 per cent more incidents.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-launches-airstrike-in-afghanistan-civilians-suffer-no-official-confirmation-from-islamabad-786628" rel="dofollow">Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts</a>
<h2>Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's scenario</h2>
According to a report, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan accounted for 94 per cent of all fatalities and 89 per cent of all incidents across Pakistan.
&ldquo;Moreover, the data collected over the last 10 years shows a sharp downward trend from 2015 to 2020, with fatalities declining each year by around 33 per cent on average. This 6-year-long decline, and in fact, an encouraging trend in Pakistan&rsquo;s security landscape,&nbsp; was followed by a resurgence in 2021. This is evident from the fact that violence in the country constantly surged by 38% spike in 2021, 15% in 2022, 56% in 2023 and 66% in 2024 (almost 44% yearly surge in violence on average since 2021),&rdquo; the report stated.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: The security forces conducted a total of 59,775 operations this year, during which "925 terrorists" were killed and 383 "brave officers and soldiers lost their lives. 

Pakistan witnessed a rise in terror attacks, with at least 685 members of security forces losing their lives in 2024, making it the deadliest year for the civil and military security forces of the country in a decade. There have been a total of 444 terror attacks in 2024. Moreover, there were 1,612 fatalities reported this year, accounting for over 63 per cent of the total recorded. The security forces conducted a total of 59,775 operations this year, during which "925 terrorists" were killed and 383 "brave officers and soldiers lost their lives, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Also read: One Pakistani, Three Taliban soldiers dead amid clashes along border The data was revealed by ISPR Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a press conference last week. Further, the overall fatalities this year broke a nine-year record and were over 66 per cent more than last year. On average, nearly seven lives were lost daily, with November being the deadliest month compared to all others of 2024. Also read: Afghanistan Taliban forces launch strike at Pakistan; Islamabad retaliates: Sources Notably, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the violence was at its highest, with 1616 fatalities reported, followed by Balochistan with 782 fatalities. According to a think tank's report, the country saw 2,546 violence-linked fatalities and 2,267 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws. As compared to 2023, this year witnessed an over 66 per cent surge in violence, over 55 per cent more injuries, and around 49 per cent more incidents. Also read: Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's scenario According to a report, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan accounted for 94 per cent of all fatalities and 89 per cent of all incidents across Pakistan. “Moreover, the data collected over the last 10 years shows a sharp downward trend from 2015 to 2020, with fatalities declining each year by around 33 per cent on average. This 6-year-long decline, and in fact, an encouraging trend in Pakistan’s security landscape, was followed by a resurgence in 2021. This is evident from the fact that violence in the country constantly surged by 38% spike in 2021, 15% in 2022, 56% in 2023 and 66% in 2024 (almost 44% yearly surge in violence on average since 2021),” the report stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan witnesses 'deadliest year' for security forces amid violence surge

Representatives from Pakistan's PTI party have met with government leaders to demand the release of Imran Khan, as tensions escalate over his detention. The meeting reflects the ongoing political struggle in Pakistan, with PTI calling for immediate action to free their leader.

Pakistan Govt, PTI To Negotiate Amid Growing Political Tensions

Imran Khan's PTI And Government To Meet And Break Political Deadlock | WION

In 2024, a total of 270 terrorists were killed by security forces in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. This included some high-profile militants with bounties on their heads, according to a report from the Provincial Police Department. The security forces arrested 802 suspects during anti-terror operations. In cases related to terrorism, the conviction rate also increased significantly from 13.3% last year to 38% in 2024. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan Terror Crackdown: High Profile Terror Groups Targetted In Various Ops In 2024

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