At least eight people including six children have been trapped in a cable car in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Pakistan military helicopters have been deployed to conduct rescue operations.

Cable carrying chairlift snapped, four children rescued, rescue operations halted

<p>At least 80 Christian homes and 19 churches were ravaged by an Islamist mob over blasphemy allegations earlier this week in Pakistan, authorities revealed Friday (August 18).</p>

<p>Usman Anwar, the head of Punjab province police, was quoted by AFP as saying that the events that unfolded were “tragic”, as he gave a horrifying account of the violence.</p>

<p>“Violence like this can never be justified," he said. He added that he personally interrogated two Christian brothers, accused of desecrating the holy Quran, “to avoid accusations of torture.”</p>

<p>Pakistan's Christian minority experienced a distressing event on Wednesday as a furious group of Muslim men rampaged through the streets of Jaranwala, located on the outskirts of the industrial city of Faisalabad. This led to the displacement of numerous Christian families and the destruction of their homes and churches.</p>

<h2><strong>Police deployed to guard&nbsp;3200 churches on Friday</strong></h2>

<p>To maintain peace and give Christians a sense of security, authorities took action on Friday by deploying police to safeguard 3,200 churches throughout Punjab province.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Why did PCB omit Imran Khan from its tribute video?</strong></p>

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<p>The angry crowd comprising hundreds of violent Islamists, led the protests as they were provoked by Muslim clerics after allegations of blasphemy surfaced.</p>

<p>The Christian neighbourhood was subjected to looting and their belongings were ravaged across the streets.</p>

<p>In response, government officials and religious leaders jointly appealed for calm.</p>

<h2><strong>Christians respond</strong></h2>

<p>Following the attacks, Christian groups in Pakistan have staged various small-scale protests, advocating for enhanced protection.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-congresswoman-ilhan-omars-controversial-visit-to-pok-sponsored-by-islamabad-626645"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar`s controversial visit to PoK was sponsored by Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p>Archbishop of Karachi, Benny Travis, emphasised that the government should take decisive action to address the issue and bring those responsible for the destruction to justice during a modest rally.</p>

<p>"We hope that through this protest, the government must realise that this issue must be dealt with sternly and those who committed destruction must be brought to justice," he was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Response from Pakistan’s caretaker government</strong></h2>

<p>Standing in solidarity with the Christian community, the Punjab caretaker leader, Mohsin Naqvi, expressed his support and ensured compensation for their losses.</p>

<p>The provincial government has also vowed to launch an investigation into the violent incident.</p>

<p>Christians, constituting roughly two per cent of the population, are often targeted in a highly conservative Pakistani society and are frequently subjected to baseless accusations of blasphemy.</p>

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At least 80 Christian homes and 19 churches were ravaged by an Islamist mob over blasphemy allegations earlier this week in Pakistan, authorities revealed Friday (August 18).

At least 80 Christian homes and 19 churches were ravaged by an Islamist mob over blasphemy allegations earlier this week in Pakistan, authorities revealed Friday (August 18). Usman Anwar, the head of Punjab province police, was quoted by AFP as saying that the events that unfolded were “tragic”, as he gave a horrifying account of the violence. “Violence like this can never be justified," he said. He added that he personally interrogated two Christian brothers, accused of desecrating the holy Quran, “to avoid accusations of torture.” Pakistan's Christian minority experienced a distressing event on Wednesday as a furious group of Muslim men rampaged through the streets of Jaranwala, located on the outskirts of the industrial city of Faisalabad. This led to the displacement of numerous Christian families and the destruction of their homes and churches. Police deployed to guard 3200 churches on Friday To maintain peace and give Christians a sense of security, authorities took action on Friday by deploying police to safeguard 3,200 churches throughout Punjab province. Watch: Gravitas: Why did PCB omit Imran Khan from its tribute video? × The angry crowd comprising hundreds of violent Islamists, led the protests as they were provoked by Muslim clerics after allegations of blasphemy surfaced. The Christian neighbourhood was subjected to looting and their belongings were ravaged across the streets. In response, government officials and religious leaders jointly appealed for calm. Christians respond Following the attacks, Christian groups in Pakistan have staged various small-scale protests, advocating for enhanced protection. Also read: US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar`s controversial visit to PoK was sponsored by Pakistan Archbishop of Karachi, Benny Travis, emphasised that the government should take decisive action to address the issue and bring those responsible for the destruction to justice during a modest rally. "We hope that through this protest, the government must realise that this issue must be dealt with sternly and those who committed destruction must be brought to justice," he was quoted as saying by AFP. Response from Pakistan’s caretaker government Standing in solidarity with the Christian community, the Punjab caretaker leader, Mohsin Naqvi, expressed his support and ensured compensation for their losses. The provincial government has also vowed to launch an investigation into the violent incident. Christians, constituting roughly two per cent of the population, are often targeted in a highly conservative Pakistani society and are frequently subjected to baseless accusations of blasphemy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Anti-Christian riots in Pakistan: 80 homes, 19 churches ravaged by Islamists

A church along with some buildings around it have been vandalised in Pakistan's Faisalabad following allegations of blasphemy against a family. The incident has taken place in Faisalabad's Jaranwala Tehsil.

100 arrested over Blasphemy in Pakistan | Record rainfall in Germany

Pakistan Church attack: Church authorities demand justice and action | WION

Pakistan: Several Churches set ablaze in Faisalabad, paramilitary deployed

<p>Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, is now Pakistan's prime minister with a much-discussed 'caretaker' prefix.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kakar, Pakistan's 24th&nbsp;prime minister since country's existence in 1947, heads the Balochistan Awami Party formed in 2018 by a group of dissidents from former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and a second short-tenured Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain's Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid e Azam group) parties.</p>

<p>The second group of dissidents led by Shujaat Hussain has been a vocal supporter of military-intelligence nexus of Pakistani power centre dubbed as the 'establishment'. Hussain was one of the top proponents of the 1999 coup by the then army chief Pervez Musharraf, and has been described as army's man in Pakistani electoral politics since.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elected to the National Assembly in 2018, The senator has done a Master’s in political science and sociology from University of Balochistan and started his career by teaching in a school in his native town, it reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kakar has served as the chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. He was also a member of the Business Advisory Committee, Finance and Revenue, Foreign Affairs and Science and Technology.</p>

<h2><strong>Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar as Pakistani PM: Why it matters?</strong></h2>

<p>Because the elections in Pakistan will not be held for another four-five months.</p>

<p>Pakistan's election body had said it is ready to hold national elections in October but&nbsp;an official schedule has not been released. However, according to Pakistani law, elections must be held within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assmebly, an event that occurred earlier this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan People's Party leader Raja Riaz, who served as Leader of Opposition in the now-dissolved Pakistan's National Assembly told the Dawn newspaper that it was decided that the "caretaker PM should be someone from a smaller province and a non-controversial personality".</p>

<p>"Our aim was to remove the sense of deprivation in small provinces," Riaz added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar ticks many boxes to be established as caretaker prime minister of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-supporters-want-to-push-pakistan-into-civil-war-army-591079">Imran Khan's supporters 'want to push Pakistan into civil war': Army</a></strong></p>

<p>He hails from Balochistan, a province where armed separatism continues to show the signs of belligerence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He belongs to the Kakar tribe, a Pashtun tribe based in northern Balochistan, parts of Iran and southern Afghanistan. Thereby he is being seen as representative of both the Pashtuns and Balochs.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why Pakistan needs a caretaker Prime Minister?</strong></h2>

<p>A caretaker government is a temporary administration in charge of overseeing day-to-day affairs and ensuring smooth transition of power through free and fair elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such interim prime ministers are often appointed in countries with history of coup d'etats and fragile democratic structures dominated by the military.</p>

<p>In the case of Pakistan, India's western neighbour, a caretaker interim government's term is limited from 60 to 90 days. This administration is responsible for maintaining law and order and continuing governance in the country while ensuring free and fair elections and subsequent smooth transition of power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Pakistan, caretaker governments were introduced to the 1973 Constitution by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1985 under the Revival of Constitution of 1973 Order (RCO).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-arrest-how-isi-angels-rule-pakistan-590710">Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, the Constitution stated that while the National Assembly is dissolved, heads of the government such as the prime minister, and the cabinet, would continue to hold office until the new government is elected. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereby, once the President or governor dissolves the National Assembly, a caretaker cabinet has to be appointed until a new prime minister is elected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such structure has evolved in Pakistan to prevent election rigging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This amendment was further strengthened in 2010 through the 18th Amendment of the Constitution, which stated that the interim prime minister shall be selected by the president or governor in consultation with the outgoing PM and the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The family members of the caretaker Prime Minister cannot contest in the upcoming elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-is-being-run-by-the-establishment-imran-khan-tells-wion-598796">Exclusive | Pakistan is being run by the 'establishment': Imran Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>A 2012 amendment removed the authority of the president or governor in the selection process and said that, in case the prime minister and opposition leader cannot reach a consensus, the speaker of the assembly and then the Election Commission of Pakistan will choose the interim prime minister out of two given nominees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan is in the middle of a&nbsp;political turmoil since former Prime Minister Imran Khan lost a&nbsp;vote of no confidence in Pakistan's parliament in April last year. The cricketer-turned-politician&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-C1Ff5x5MU">blames the military and the United States for plotting to remove him</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a></strong></p>

<p>In January this year, Khan, who heads the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, got the assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces his party dominated, dissolved in a bid to force snap elections.</p>

<p>Khan remains under arrest with a prison sentence of three years after being convicted by a court of selling state gifts when he was prime minister.</p>

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Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, is now Pakistan's prime minister with a much-discussed 'caretaker' prefix.

Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, is now Pakistan's prime minister with a much-discussed 'caretaker' prefix. Kakar, Pakistan's 24th prime minister since country's existence in 1947, heads the Balochistan Awami Party formed in 2018 by a group of dissidents from former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and a second short-tenured Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain's Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid e Azam group) parties. The second group of dissidents led by Shujaat Hussain has been a vocal supporter of military-intelligence nexus of Pakistani power centre dubbed as the 'establishment'. Hussain was one of the top proponents of the 1999 coup by the then army chief Pervez Musharraf, and has been described as army's man in Pakistani electoral politics since. Elected to the National Assembly in 2018, The senator has done a Master’s in political science and sociology from University of Balochistan and started his career by teaching in a school in his native town, it reported. Kakar has served as the chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. He was also a member of the Business Advisory Committee, Finance and Revenue, Foreign Affairs and Science and Technology. Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar as Pakistani PM: Why it matters? Because the elections in Pakistan will not be held for another four-five months. Pakistan's election body had said it is ready to hold national elections in October but an official schedule has not been released. However, according to Pakistani law, elections must be held within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assmebly, an event that occurred earlier this week. Pakistan People's Party leader Raja Riaz, who served as Leader of Opposition in the now-dissolved Pakistan's National Assembly told the Dawn newspaper that it was decided that the "caretaker PM should be someone from a smaller province and a non-controversial personality". "Our aim was to remove the sense of deprivation in small provinces," Riaz added. Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar ticks many boxes to be established as caretaker prime minister of Pakistan. Also read | Imran Khan's supporters 'want to push Pakistan into civil war': Army He hails from Balochistan, a province where armed separatism continues to show the signs of belligerence. He belongs to the Kakar tribe, a Pashtun tribe based in northern Balochistan, parts of Iran and southern Afghanistan. Thereby he is being seen as representative of both the Pashtuns and Balochs. Why Pakistan needs a caretaker Prime Minister? A caretaker government is a temporary administration in charge of overseeing day-to-day affairs and ensuring smooth transition of power through free and fair elections. Such interim prime ministers are often appointed in countries with history of coup d'etats and fragile democratic structures dominated by the military. In the case of Pakistan, India's western neighbour, a caretaker interim government's term is limited from 60 to 90 days. This administration is responsible for maintaining law and order and continuing governance in the country while ensuring free and fair elections and subsequent smooth transition of power. In Pakistan, caretaker governments were introduced to the 1973 Constitution by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1985 under the Revival of Constitution of 1973 Order (RCO). Also read | Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan Earlier, the Constitution stated that while the National Assembly is dissolved, heads of the government such as the prime minister, and the cabinet, would continue to hold office until the new government is elected. Thereby, once the President or governor dissolves the National Assembly, a caretaker cabinet has to be appointed until a new prime minister is elected. Such structure has evolved in Pakistan to prevent election rigging. This amendment was further strengthened in 2010 through the 18th Amendment of the Constitution, which stated that the interim prime minister shall be selected by the president or governor in consultation with the outgoing PM and the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly. The family members of the caretaker Prime Minister cannot contest in the upcoming elections. Also read | Exclusive | Pakistan is being run by the 'establishment': Imran Khan A 2012 amendment removed the authority of the president or governor in the selection process and said that, in case the prime minister and opposition leader cannot reach a consensus, the speaker of the assembly and then the Election Commission of Pakistan will choose the interim prime minister out of two given nominees. Pakistan is in the middle of a political turmoil since former Prime Minister Imran Khan lost a vote of no confidence in Pakistan's parliament in April last year. The cricketer-turned-politician blames the military and the United States for plotting to remove him. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' In January this year, Khan, who heads the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, got the assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces his party dominated, dissolved in a bid to force snap elections. Khan remains under arrest with a prison sentence of three years after being convicted by a court of selling state gifts when he was prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar established as Pakistan's caretaker PM. Why it matters

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stepped down on 10th of August and dissolved the government. This signifies the country's general elections will have to be held within 90 days.

Shehbaz Sharif and opposition leaders to agree on caretaker PM in three days

An update on the horrific train accident in Pakistan reports telling that the death toll has now gone up to 30 at least a hundred people have been injured. As per reports, 10 coaches of the Hazara Express which was travelling from Karachi to Rawalpindi derailed and there were about a thousand passengers aboard the train. The casualty numbers are expected to climb sharply rescue operations are underway at the site.

Pakistan train tragedy: Around 30 dead, at least 100 injured, death toll likely to rise | WION

Pakistan train tragedy: Reason for derailment unknown, investigations still underway

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister <strong>Shehbaz Sharif </strong>on Thursday (August 3) told his coalition partners that the National Assembly (NA) would be dissolved on August 9, reported Geo News.</p>

<p>NA is the lower house of the Pakistani Parliament. Its dissolution is followed by the installation of a caretaker government and general elections within 60 days.</p>

<p>PM Shehbaz is expected to talk to the Leader of the Opposition Raja Riaz over the caretaker prime minister on Friday (August 4). He told his partners during a dinner that the talks with the opposition leader are expected to end within two to three days.</p>

<h2><strong>When will elections be held?</strong></h2>

<p>The tenure of the NA will end on August 12. According to Pakistan’s constitution, elections are to be conducted within 60 days of the dissolution of the lower house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The window is extended to 90 days if the NA is dissolved way before the completion of its tenure.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Bilawal Bhutto reacts to rising terror threat from Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<p>Now, a summary will be moved in the NA to dissolve the lower house on August 9. In any case, the Election Commission of Pakistan will be liable to conduct general elections within 90 days of the dissolution.</p>

<p>It is expected that elections in Pakistan could be held in the early days of November 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>What happens next?</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, Prime Minister Shehbaz established a five-member committee within the Pakistan Muslim League (N) or PMNL party, to engage in discussions regarding the appointment of an interim prime minister and the dissolution of the National Assembly, as reported by The News.</p>

<p>While the provincial assemblies of Sindh and Balochistan are also scheduled for dissolution alongside the National Assembly next week, it's noteworthy that the committee exclusively consists of members from the Punjab region.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-wants-normal-ties-with-pak-but-new-delhi-reacts-to-shehbaz-sharifs-no-war-comment-622114"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India wants normal ties with Pak but...: New Delhi reacts to Shehbaz Sharif`s `no war` comment</strong></a></p>

<p>This committee, led by federal ministers Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Saad Rafiq, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Khawaja Muhammad Asif, has been assigned the responsibility of consulting with the various political parties and groups that make up the current government.</p>

<p>As per the constitution, both the prime minister as the leader of the House and the leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly are required to initiate these consultations. Should they be unable to reach an agreement, the matter would be referred to a parliamentary committee, which would be formed by the Speaker of the National Assembly.</p>

<p>If the parliamentary committee also fails to select an interim Prime Minister, the final authority to make this selection would lie with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).</p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday (August 3) told his coalition partners that the National Assembly (NA) would be dissolved on August 9, reported Geo News.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday (August 3) told his coalition partners that the National Assembly (NA) would be dissolved on August 9, reported Geo News. NA is the lower house of the Pakistani Parliament. Its dissolution is followed by the installation of a caretaker government and general elections within 60 days. PM Shehbaz is expected to talk to the Leader of the Opposition Raja Riaz over the caretaker prime minister on Friday (August 4). He told his partners during a dinner that the talks with the opposition leader are expected to end within two to three days. When will elections be held? The tenure of the NA will end on August 12. According to Pakistan’s constitution, elections are to be conducted within 60 days of the dissolution of the lower house. The window is extended to 90 days if the NA is dissolved way before the completion of its tenure. Watch: Bilawal Bhutto reacts to rising terror threat from Afghanistan × Now, a summary will be moved in the NA to dissolve the lower house on August 9. In any case, the Election Commission of Pakistan will be liable to conduct general elections within 90 days of the dissolution. It is expected that elections in Pakistan could be held in the early days of November 2023. What happens next? Last month, Prime Minister Shehbaz established a five-member committee within the Pakistan Muslim League (N) or PMNL party, to engage in discussions regarding the appointment of an interim prime minister and the dissolution of the National Assembly, as reported by The News. While the provincial assemblies of Sindh and Balochistan are also scheduled for dissolution alongside the National Assembly next week, it's noteworthy that the committee exclusively consists of members from the Punjab region. Also read: India wants normal ties with Pak but...: New Delhi reacts to Shehbaz Sharif`s `no war` comment This committee, led by federal ministers Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Saad Rafiq, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Khawaja Muhammad Asif, has been assigned the responsibility of consulting with the various political parties and groups that make up the current government. As per the constitution, both the prime minister as the leader of the House and the leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly are required to initiate these consultations. Should they be unable to reach an agreement, the matter would be referred to a parliamentary committee, which would be formed by the Speaker of the National Assembly. If the parliamentary committee also fails to select an interim Prime Minister, the final authority to make this selection would lie with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pak National Assembly to be dissolved on August 9, elections to be held within 90 days

Is Pakistan's ISI buying hacking softwares from Israel? Israeli media claims a software firm is celling hacking devices to Islamabad. Molly Gambhir exposes Pakistan's hypocrisy.

Gravitas: Is Pak buying hacking softwares from Israel?

The decision by the government in Pakistan to hike petrol and diesel prices has triggered anxiety among the people in the country

7.8% increase in petrol, diesel prices, Pakistanis react to hike in petrol prices | WION Dispatch

<p>Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, said in an interview that the military of the South Asian nation is frightened of the elections&nbsp;scheduled later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In crisis-hit Pakistan, general elections are scheduled to be held in less than 60 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly, which will be dissolved on August 13.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the interview with BBC HARDtalk published on Thursday (August 3), Khan said that "fascists" are leading the country into the "dark ages".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan was ousted in a parliamentary vote of confidence last year, and ever since, the cricket hero turned politician has been embroiled in a string of court cases and several key leaders and members of his party have also been arrested&nbsp;besides himself since&nbsp;the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) launched protests and rallies against the government.</p>

<p>According to him, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is "the only party that was not created by military dictators" and is still intact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts and political analysts have said that Khan was ousted because he fell out with the powerful military, which tends to decide who will rule the 220-million South Asian nation. It was also said that during the period of time when Khan was becoming the mainstay in the Pakistani political area, he had the backing of the army.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-faces-backlash-over-bill-giving-security-agencies-draconian-powers-621838">Pakistan govt faces backlash over ‘draconian’ bill giving security agencies massive powers</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>During the interview, the 70-year-old said, "How come, despite the establishment openly going against us, trying to dismantle us, how come after we are out of government, we won 30 out of 37 by-elections?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former prime minister said, "Normally, it happens when you're out of power for quite a while. But instead, what happened was the party's popularity kept growing" as he noted that the establishment had hoped that his removal from power would weaken the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "They have tried everything. They have put 10,000 people in jail, including women and peaceful protesters. And worse, they have tortured people."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Naela Quadri: Cannot trust or talk to Pakistan's authorities&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imprisoned-by-islamist-militants-pakistani-survivor-determined-to-be-fearless-621979">Tortured by Islamic militants for years, gritty Pakistani survivor determined to be fearless</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Khan's legal cases&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Towards the end of last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court rejected Khan's plea that his trial on charges of unlawfully selling state gifts be halted on concerns over the merits of the trial and that the judge hearing it was biased. According to legal experts mentioned by news agency Reuters, a possible conviction in the case could end Khan's political career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Supreme Court asked Khan to go back to the Islamabad High Court to seek a ruling over his objections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, said in an interview that the military of the South Asian nation is frightened of the elections scheduled later this year.

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, said in an interview that the military of the South Asian nation is frightened of the elections scheduled later this year. In crisis-hit Pakistan, general elections are scheduled to be held in less than 60 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly, which will be dissolved on August 13. During the interview with BBC HARDtalk published on Thursday (August 3), Khan said that "fascists" are leading the country into the "dark ages". Khan was ousted in a parliamentary vote of confidence last year, and ever since, the cricket hero turned politician has been embroiled in a string of court cases and several key leaders and members of his party have also been arrested besides himself since the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) launched protests and rallies against the government. According to him, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is "the only party that was not created by military dictators" and is still intact. Experts and political analysts have said that Khan was ousted because he fell out with the powerful military, which tends to decide who will rule the 220-million South Asian nation. It was also said that during the period of time when Khan was becoming the mainstay in the Pakistani political area, he had the backing of the army. Also read: Pakistan govt faces backlash over ‘draconian’ bill giving security agencies massive powers During the interview, the 70-year-old said, "How come, despite the establishment openly going against us, trying to dismantle us, how come after we are out of government, we won 30 out of 37 by-elections?" The former prime minister said, "Normally, it happens when you're out of power for quite a while. But instead, what happened was the party's popularity kept growing" as he noted that the establishment had hoped that his removal from power would weaken the party. He said, "They have tried everything. They have put 10,000 people in jail, including women and peaceful protesters. And worse, they have tortured people." Watch: Naela Quadri: Cannot trust or talk to Pakistan's authorities × Also read: Tortured by Islamic militants for years, gritty Pakistani survivor determined to be fearless Khan's legal cases Towards the end of last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court rejected Khan's plea that his trial on charges of unlawfully selling state gifts be halted on concerns over the merits of the trial and that the judge hearing it was biased. According to legal experts mentioned by news agency Reuters, a possible conviction in the case could end Khan's political career. The Supreme Court asked Khan to go back to the Islamabad High Court to seek a ruling over his objections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan: Imran Khan says military afraid of election; 'fascists' leading nation into 'dark ages'

Speculation is rife in Pakistan over the postponement of general elections after Pakistan's prime minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that it would be held based on the 2023 digital census. Sharif said that it was the job of the election commission of pakistan to hold elections on time.

Pakistan PM: Will hold general elections based on digital census

Pakistan is sending back Afghan refugees to face the Taliban's repression. Over 530 refugees have been sent back in recent months. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Pakistan is forcibly deporting Afghan refugees

<p>Chaos descended upon a court in Pakistan Friday (July 21) after a monkey escaped from captivity of a security official and later climbed up a tree.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AFP reported that 14 monkeys were presented as evidence in the city court in Karachi in a wildlife smuggling case.<br />
<br />
On Thursday, police had arrested two persons outside Karachi trying to smuggle 14 baby monkeys in crates meant to transport mangoes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, when they were presented in court on Friday by the Sindh Wildlife Department of Pakistan, one of the baby monkeys created chaos on the premises after breaking free from a troop.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A baby monkey, which was recovered by the Sindh Wildlife Department, fled from the premises of the city court in Karachi.<br />
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The department's official said that 14 newborn monkeys were recovered at the M-9 motorway during the search of a passenger bus arriving in the port city from… <a href="https://t.co/0SscKhHPo0">pic.twitter.com/0SscKhHPo0</a></p>
— Dialogue Pakistan (@DialoguePak) <a href="https://twitter.com/DialoguePak/status/1682314499662184448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The monkeys were kept in the boxes in a bad condition ... they could hardly breathe," said Javed Mahar, chief of Sindh Wildlife Department.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan blames Afghanistan for terrorism | Afghan women protest</strong></p>

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<p>Pakistan’s Geo TV reported that authorities were seen struggling to rescue the monkey on Friday, who was “too small and, therefore, too fast to be easily grabbed.” Dawn reported the monkey was recaptured almost after 20 hours of intense rescue operation by the officials.</p>

<h2><strong>Smugglers fined $350 each</strong></h2>

<p>Both smugglers were later fined 100,000 Pakistani rupees (US$ 350) by the Karachi court. Also, the court directed the wildlife department to hand over the monkeys to Karachi Zoo.</p>

<p>However, the decision was immediately criticised by wildlife department officials because Pakistani zoos are generally notorious for their poor facilities and activists accuse the zoo officials of totally disregarding animal welfare.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hindu-women-in-pakistans-sindh-province-forced-to-marry-their-abductors-618275"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hindu women in Pakistan`s Sindh province forced to marry their abductors</strong></a></p>

<p>"The monkeys should have been returned to their natural habitat from where they were captured," Mahar was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<p>Animal activists have also requested the judge to send the rescued animals back to where they were originally captured, near Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.</p>

<h2><strong>And the lawlessness continues…</strong></h2>

<p>In Pakistan, the trade and possession of wild animals are strictly prohibited by law, aiming to safeguard the nation's rich biodiversity. However, despite these regulations, the illegal wildlife trade persists as a significant challenge, leading to the flourishing market for exotic pets.</p>

<p>Often exploited by street entertainers to attract audiences, these animals endure a life of confinement and maltreatment. Some heartbreaking incidents reveal that these monkeys have been cruelly trained by criminals to even enter homes and commit thefts.</p>

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Chaos descended upon a court in Pakistan Friday (July 21) after a monkey escaped from captivity of a security official and later climbed up a tree. AFP reported that 14 monkeys were presented as evidence in the city court in Karachi in a wildlife smuggling case.

Chaos descended upon a court in Pakistan Friday (July 21) after a monkey escaped from captivity of a security official and later climbed up a tree. AFP reported that 14 monkeys were presented as evidence in the city court in Karachi in a wildlife smuggling case. On Thursday, police had arrested two persons outside Karachi trying to smuggle 14 baby monkeys in crates meant to transport mangoes. However, when they were presented in court on Friday by the Sindh Wildlife Department of Pakistan, one of the baby monkeys created chaos on the premises after breaking free from a troop. A baby monkey, which was recovered by the Sindh Wildlife Department, fled from the premises of the city court in Karachi. The department's official said that 14 newborn monkeys were recovered at the M-9 motorway during the search of a passenger bus arriving in the port city from… pic.twitter.com/0SscKhHPo0 — Dialogue Pakistan (@DialoguePak) July 21, 2023 × "The monkeys were kept in the boxes in a bad condition ... they could hardly breathe," said Javed Mahar, chief of Sindh Wildlife Department. Watch: Pakistan blames Afghanistan for terrorism | Afghan women protest × Pakistan’s Geo TV reported that authorities were seen struggling to rescue the monkey on Friday, who was “too small and, therefore, too fast to be easily grabbed.” Dawn reported the monkey was recaptured almost after 20 hours of intense rescue operation by the officials. Smugglers fined $350 each Both smugglers were later fined 100,000 Pakistani rupees (US$ 350) by the Karachi court. Also, the court directed the wildlife department to hand over the monkeys to Karachi Zoo. However, the decision was immediately criticised by wildlife department officials because Pakistani zoos are generally notorious for their poor facilities and activists accuse the zoo officials of totally disregarding animal welfare. Also read: Hindu women in Pakistan`s Sindh province forced to marry their abductors "The monkeys should have been returned to their natural habitat from where they were captured," Mahar was quoted as saying by AFP. Animal activists have also requested the judge to send the rescued animals back to where they were originally captured, near Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. And the lawlessness continues… In Pakistan, the trade and possession of wild animals are strictly prohibited by law, aiming to safeguard the nation's rich biodiversity. However, despite these regulations, the illegal wildlife trade persists as a significant challenge, leading to the flourishing market for exotic pets. Often exploited by street entertainers to attract audiences, these animals endure a life of confinement and maltreatment. Some heartbreaking incidents reveal that these monkeys have been cruelly trained by criminals to even enter homes and commit thefts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Monkey creates chaos in Pakistan court, keeps officials on toes for 20 hours

Legal troubles continue to create obstacles for Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He's been summoned by the top agency for a probe as part of his allegations.

Pakistan's top probe agency summons Imran Khan

At least eight people have been injured in a suicide blast in Peshawar's Hayatabad area. Local police say an explosive-laden vehicle was used in the attack. Who is the mastermind? Priyanka Sharma and Anas Mallick get you the details.

Suicide Blast in Pakistan's Peshawar: At least 8 injured in Hayatabad

<p>At least 7 people were killed and 14 others were injured after an LPG cylinder installed in a passenger van exploded in Pakistan’s Sargodha district. The cylinder was of poor quality and the explosion reportedly took place due to a gas leak. The van, a white Toyota Hiace, had the cylinder filled with LPG for fuel. Above 20 people were aboard the van when the explosion occurred.</p>

<p>All injured, including two children and two senior citizens, were rushed to Bhalwal Tehsil Headquarters hospital. One of them is reportedly in critical condition.</p>

<h2><strong>Flames engulfed the vehicle&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Head Constable Mohammad Shahid, stationed at Kot Momin Police Station, was on his way to work and happened to be sitting in the front seat of the van when the cylinder explosion took place. Shahid described the chaos that unfolded as flames quickly engulfed the vehicle, forcing him to act swiftly.</p>

<p>Without hesitation, Shahid exited the van and proceeded to break open the middle and rear doors, attempting to rescue the passengers trapped inside. Despite his brave efforts, Shahid was unable to save the lives of six to seven individuals who were present in the van during the explosion.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan charged over attack on army headquarters</strong></p>

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<p>Emergency services rushed to the scene immediately, and the injured were transported to nearby hospitals in Sargodha and Kot Momin.</p>

<h2><strong>Some bodies remain unidentified&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As the investigation unfolds, the process of identifying the deceased victims is currently underway. &nbsp;Five deceased men are yet to be identified, local media reported. This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the recurring occurrences in Pakistan, where passenger vans often lack proper safety measures and are equipped with substandard cylinders.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-standing-on-the-edge-of-darkness-says-imran-khan-612395"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan standing on the `edge of darkness,` says Imran Khan</strong></a></p>

<p>The absence of stringent quality and security checks poses a significant risk to the lives of individuals travelling in these vehicles.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Punjab CM expresses grief</strong></h2>

<p>The caretaker Chief Minister of Pakistani Punjab, Mohsin Naqui, expressed grief over the accident and directed authorities to present a detailed report about the incident before him. He also ordered the local commissioner and Regional Police Officer (RPO) to initiate an inquiry into the matter.</p>

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At least 7 people were killed and 14 others were injured after an LPG cylinder installed in a passenger van exploded in Pakistan’s Sargodha district. The cylinder was of poor quality and the explosion reportedly took place due to a gas leak.

At least 7 people were killed and 14 others were injured after an LPG cylinder installed in a passenger van exploded in Pakistan’s Sargodha district. The cylinder was of poor quality and the explosion reportedly took place due to a gas leak. The van, a white Toyota Hiace, had the cylinder filled with LPG for fuel. Above 20 people were aboard the van when the explosion occurred. All injured, including two children and two senior citizens, were rushed to Bhalwal Tehsil Headquarters hospital. One of them is reportedly in critical condition. Flames engulfed the vehicle Head Constable Mohammad Shahid, stationed at Kot Momin Police Station, was on his way to work and happened to be sitting in the front seat of the van when the cylinder explosion took place. Shahid described the chaos that unfolded as flames quickly engulfed the vehicle, forcing him to act swiftly. Without hesitation, Shahid exited the van and proceeded to break open the middle and rear doors, attempting to rescue the passengers trapped inside. Despite his brave efforts, Shahid was unable to save the lives of six to seven individuals who were present in the van during the explosion. Watch: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan charged over attack on army headquarters × Emergency services rushed to the scene immediately, and the injured were transported to nearby hospitals in Sargodha and Kot Momin. Some bodies remain unidentified As the investigation unfolds, the process of identifying the deceased victims is currently underway. Five deceased men are yet to be identified, local media reported. This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the recurring occurrences in Pakistan, where passenger vans often lack proper safety measures and are equipped with substandard cylinders. Also read: Pakistan standing on the `edge of darkness,` says Imran Khan The absence of stringent quality and security checks poses a significant risk to the lives of individuals travelling in these vehicles. Punjab CM expresses grief The caretaker Chief Minister of Pakistani Punjab, Mohsin Naqui, expressed grief over the accident and directed authorities to present a detailed report about the incident before him. He also ordered the local commissioner and Regional Police Officer (RPO) to initiate an inquiry into the matter. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

LPG cylinder blast in passenger van kills seven people in Pakistan

<p>At least 17 people were reported dead and another 49 injured in Pakistan’s Punjab province due to heavy rainfall over the past few days. The deaths occurred as heavy rain&nbsp;triggered the collapse of walls and roofs, causing multiple casualties and injuries at multiple sites. Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities have warned the residents of further flash floods and landslides in some parts of the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Heavy rain&nbsp;wreaks&nbsp;havoc in Pakistan’s Punjab province</strong></h2>

<p>The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Pakistan said that at least four people, including three children under the age of 10, lost their lives in Lahore when the roof of a house collapsed near the Bandianwala bridge in the city’s Amar Sidhu area, reported Dawn.</p>

<p>According to PDMA, six fatalities occurred in Gujranwala due to the collapse of a three-story house's ‘weak wooden structure’.&nbsp;Similar incidents resulted in the deaths of three people each in Chakwal and Sheikhupura, while one each lost their life in Jhang and Faisalabad.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Rains wreak havoc in Pakistan's Lahore, incessant downpour leaves 7 dead</strong></p>

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<p>In a separate incident, 14 individuals sustained injuries when a wall of the Government Mozang Teaching Hospital collapsed, affecting a neighbouring building. The injured individuals were promptly transferred to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.</p>

<p>The PDMA further reported that a total of 32 people across the province had suffered severe injuries in various rain-related incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Punjab province receives record rainfall</strong></h2>

<p>Regarding rainfall statistics, Lahore's Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Monsoon Control Room recorded the highest precipitation at the Nishtar Town director's office, measuring 65mm. This was followed by the Johar Town SDO office with 57mm and Lakshmi Chowk with 38mm.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-charged-over-attack-on-army-hq-612735"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan charged over attack on army headquarters</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, assured the public that the situation was currently under control. During a press briefing in Lahore, he stated that eight secretaries were overseeing each respective zone of WASA.</p>

<h2><strong>Flash floods expected</strong></h2>

<p>A weather forecast issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Friday said, “Heavy rain may cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Sahiwal, Toba Tek Singh, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Okara, Kohat, Peshawar, Bannu, Karak and Dera Ismail Khan […] from July 6-8.”</p>

<p>It further warned that the heavy rain “may trigger landslides in the vulnerable areas of Murree, Galliyat, (Pakistani-occupied) Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan and hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa”.</p>

<p>It added that heavy rainfall and floods may cause landslides in some vulnerable and sensitive areas.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Earlier, at least nine people lost their lives across Punjab on Wednesday due to electrocution, roof collapses, drowning and lightning.</p>

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At least 17 people were reported dead and another 49 injured in Pakistan’s Punjab province due to heavy rainfall over the past few days. The deaths occurred as heavy rain triggered the collapse of walls and roofs, causing multiple casualties and injuries at multiple sites.

At least 17 people were reported dead and another 49 injured in Pakistan’s Punjab province due to heavy rainfall over the past few days. The deaths occurred as heavy rain triggered the collapse of walls and roofs, causing multiple casualties and injuries at multiple sites. Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities have warned the residents of further flash floods and landslides in some parts of the country. Heavy rain wreaks havoc in Pakistan’s Punjab province The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Pakistan said that at least four people, including three children under the age of 10, lost their lives in Lahore when the roof of a house collapsed near the Bandianwala bridge in the city’s Amar Sidhu area, reported Dawn. According to PDMA, six fatalities occurred in Gujranwala due to the collapse of a three-story house's ‘weak wooden structure’. Similar incidents resulted in the deaths of three people each in Chakwal and Sheikhupura, while one each lost their life in Jhang and Faisalabad. Watch: Rains wreak havoc in Pakistan's Lahore, incessant downpour leaves 7 dead × In a separate incident, 14 individuals sustained injuries when a wall of the Government Mozang Teaching Hospital collapsed, affecting a neighbouring building. The injured individuals were promptly transferred to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. The PDMA further reported that a total of 32 people across the province had suffered severe injuries in various rain-related incidents. Punjab province receives record rainfall Regarding rainfall statistics, Lahore's Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Monsoon Control Room recorded the highest precipitation at the Nishtar Town director's office, measuring 65mm. This was followed by the Johar Town SDO office with 57mm and Lakshmi Chowk with 38mm. Also read: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan charged over attack on army headquarters Meanwhile, the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, assured the public that the situation was currently under control. During a press briefing in Lahore, he stated that eight secretaries were overseeing each respective zone of WASA. Flash floods expected A weather forecast issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Friday said, “Heavy rain may cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Sahiwal, Toba Tek Singh, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Okara, Kohat, Peshawar, Bannu, Karak and Dera Ismail Khan […] from July 6-8.” It further warned that the heavy rain “may trigger landslides in the vulnerable areas of Murree, Galliyat, (Pakistani-occupied) Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan and hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa”. It added that heavy rainfall and floods may cause landslides in some vulnerable and sensitive areas. Earlier, at least nine people lost their lives across Punjab on Wednesday due to electrocution, roof collapses, drowning and lightning. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pakistan: Heavy rainfall leaves 17 people dead in Punjab, authorities warn of flash floods, landslides

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan is said to appear in Pakistan Supreme Court for yet another set of hearings

Imran Khan faces legal challenges as court cases progress in Pakistan

<p>Pakistan is currently facing an unprecedented financial crisis and expects a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to revive the economy. On Wednesday (June 28), Dawn newspaper reported citing people with knowledge of the matter that Islamabad is in talks with the international financial institution for a new $2.5 billion quick standby assistance as the existing programme expires on June 30.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Pakistan-based newspaper, the short-term proposed arrangement, which is for six to nine months, includes an upfront disbursement of $1.1 billion within the next 15 days. It is followed by two or three more reviews for as much as $500 million each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan is struggling to finalise an agreement with the lender as its IMF programme runs out. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a meeting with the ambassadors of key countries to get support for the revival of the deal. So far, there's nothing concrete.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-new-law-paves-way-for-former-pm-nawaz-sharifs-return-report-609308">Pakistan passes new law, paves way for former PM Nawaz Sharif’s return: Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Economic crisis in Pakistan&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The economy of the nation has been stricken by a balance-of-payments crisis as it attempts to service crippling external debt. Months of political chaos have worsened the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cost of living crisis is also troubling the common people as inflation has rocketed, the Pakistan rupee has plummeted and the country can no longer afford imports. This has led to a severe decline in industrial output.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan remained in a difficult phase as it attempted to regain access to a $6.7 billion bailout programme. However, it has been delayed for more than six months. The South Asian nation drafted its annual budget keeping the crisis in mind.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-amara-raja-group-secures-130-million-solar-power-project-in-bangladesh-609215">India's Amara Raja Group secures $130 million solar power project in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ishaq Dar told reporters after releasing the budget for the 2023-24 financial year that "we'll see how things go" as he referred to whether to restructure or reprofile debt. Dar added, "In either case, we will talk to bilateral creditors."&nbsp;</p>

<p>To tackle the situation, Pakistan has taken decisive changes to the annual budget, such as hiked taxes and energy prices to win the lender's support. However, these tweaks would impact the common people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Civilians in Pakistan may face military trial for vandalising army building&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Pakistan to hand over Karachi port to UAE&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan is apparently planning to hand over the Karachi port terminals to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a move which appears to be the first intergovernmental transaction under a law enacted last year to raise emergency funds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Inter-Governmental Commercial Transactions was chaired by the finance minister to discuss the details of the deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the meeting, it was decided to set up a committee to negotiate a commercial agreement between the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and the UAE government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan is currently facing an unprecedented financial crisis and expects a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to revive the economy. On Wednesday (June 28), Dawn newspaper reported citing people with knowledge of the matter that Islamabad is in talks with the international financial institution for a new $2.

Pakistan is currently facing an unprecedented financial crisis and expects a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to revive the economy. On Wednesday (June 28), Dawn newspaper reported citing people with knowledge of the matter that Islamabad is in talks with the international financial institution for a new $2.5 billion quick standby assistance as the existing programme expires on June 30. According to the Pakistan-based newspaper, the short-term proposed arrangement, which is for six to nine months, includes an upfront disbursement of $1.1 billion within the next 15 days. It is followed by two or three more reviews for as much as $500 million each. Pakistan is struggling to finalise an agreement with the lender as its IMF programme runs out. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a meeting with the ambassadors of key countries to get support for the revival of the deal. So far, there's nothing concrete. Also read: Pakistan passes new law, paves way for former PM Nawaz Sharif’s return: Report Economic crisis in Pakistan The economy of the nation has been stricken by a balance-of-payments crisis as it attempts to service crippling external debt. Months of political chaos have worsened the situation. The cost of living crisis is also troubling the common people as inflation has rocketed, the Pakistan rupee has plummeted and the country can no longer afford imports. This has led to a severe decline in industrial output. Pakistan remained in a difficult phase as it attempted to regain access to a $6.7 billion bailout programme. However, it has been delayed for more than six months. The South Asian nation drafted its annual budget keeping the crisis in mind. Also read: India's Amara Raja Group secures $130 million solar power project in Bangladesh Ishaq Dar told reporters after releasing the budget for the 2023-24 financial year that "we'll see how things go" as he referred to whether to restructure or reprofile debt. Dar added, "In either case, we will talk to bilateral creditors." To tackle the situation, Pakistan has taken decisive changes to the annual budget, such as hiked taxes and energy prices to win the lender's support. However, these tweaks would impact the common people. Watch: Civilians in Pakistan may face military trial for vandalising army building × Pakistan to hand over Karachi port to UAE Pakistan is apparently planning to hand over the Karachi port terminals to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a move which appears to be the first intergovernmental transaction under a law enacted last year to raise emergency funds. Earlier this month, a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Inter-Governmental Commercial Transactions was chaired by the finance minister to discuss the details of the deal. In the meeting, it was decided to set up a committee to negotiate a commercial agreement between the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) and the UAE government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan in talks with IMF for new $2.5 billion quick standby assistance: Report

In Pakistan, a member of the six-judge bench hearing pleas challenging the trials of civilians in the military courts has urged the Chief Justice, Umar Ata Bandial to reconsider the reconstitution of the bench.

Brutal military trials of civilians in Pakistan

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300 Pakistani nationals missing in Greece boat tragedy

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