Pakistan will host negotiations between Iran and the US in Islamabad, as confirmed by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Following the agreement of the ceasefire between the US and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The conversation lasted approximately 45 minutes, and Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Pakistan's effort in the mediation of a ceasefire between Iran and the US. Both the US and Iran were invited by Pakistan for further negotiations on Friday.&nbsp;“..the Prime Minister conveyed his deep appreciation for the wisdom and sagacity of the Iranian leadership in agreeing to the ceasefire and for accepting the Prime Minister’s offer to host negotiations between Iran and the U.S. in Islamabad later this week. He also conveyed his respects to His Eminence Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei,” read the post on X by Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-cnn-iran-10-point-plan-fake-news-ceasefire-row-1775640317476">Trump slams CNN over Iran ‘10-point plan’ report, calls it fake and inflammatory</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Islamabad: April 8, 2026. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversaiton with His Excellency Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, this afternoon. During their warm and cordial conversation that lasted for over forty-five… <a href="https://t.co/jbjiFjYkRh">pic.twitter.com/jbjiFjYkRh</a>&mdash; Prime Minister&#39;s Office (@PakPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakPMO/status/2041813743638868043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The ceasefire brokered on the basis of the proposed 10-point plan by Tehran has led to the opening of the vital chokepoint, the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister, on behalf of Iran's Security Council, confirmed the arrangement. He added that safe passage through the Hormuz will be possible in coordination with the Iranian Army.&nbsp;Both the US and Iran claimed victory. US President Donald Trump claimed &nbsp;“Total and complete victory. 100 per cent”, and the US has already “met and exceeded” all of its military objectives. Similarly, Iran says it has achieved a great victory and forced the United States to accept in principle its 10-point plan, according to a statement from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council reported by Iranian state media.&nbsp;Following the ceasefire, Iranians gathered in the street to celebrate, though several voiced scepticism about the fragile agreement. People burnt US and Israeli flags, while waving Iranian flags and photos of the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojataba Khamenei.&nbsp;

Pakistan will host US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad following a ceasefire brokered on Tehran’s 10-point plan. The Strait of Hormuz reopens as both nations claim victory, with public celebrations in Iran.

Pakistan will host negotiations between Iran and the US in Islamabad, as confirmed by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Following the agreement of the ceasefire between the US and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The conversation lasted approximately 45 minutes, and Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Pakistan's effort in the mediation of a ceasefire between Iran and the US. Both the US and Iran were invited by Pakistan for further negotiations on Friday. “..the Prime Minister conveyed his deep appreciation for the wisdom and sagacity of the Iranian leadership in agreeing to the ceasefire and for accepting the Prime Minister’s offer to host negotiations between Iran and the U.S. in Islamabad later this week. He also conveyed his respects to His Eminence Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei,” read the post on X by Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office. Also Read: Trump slams CNN over Iran ‘10-point plan’ report, calls it fake and inflammatory

Pakistan will host US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad following a ceasefire brokered on Tehran’s 10-point plan. The Strait of Hormuz reopens as both nations claim victory, with public celebrations in Iran.

Pakistan to host US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad after ceasefire, Strait of Hormuz reopening

Pakistan is increasingly turning to solar power to mitigate the energy and economic impact of the ongoing West Asia war. With fuel imports disrupted and electricity costs rising, authorities and businesses are investing in renewable energy solutions to ensure stable power supply. Solar adoption aims to reduce reliance on imported oil, stabilize electricity grids, and support sustainable development amid regional instability and global energy price volatility.


Pakistan Turn to Solar Power to Cushion Impact of West Asia War 

Based on reports from April 2026, Pakistani Senator Mushahid Hussain has claimed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is "stuck and helpless" due to financial pressures stemming from its involvement in regional conflicts, particularly in Sudan and Yemen. 

Pakistani Senator Mushahid Hussain Mocks UAE On Loan Repayments 

Amid a worsening energy crisis, Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office has announced that markets and shopping malls across the country will close by 8:00 PM to conserve electricity. The move is part of emergency measures aimed at managing power shortages and reducing pressure on the national grid as authorities work to stabilise energy supply.


Pakistan Energy Crisis | Pak PM Office: Markets, Malls Will Be Closed at 8:00 PM

As President Donald Trump's deadline approaches, media reports suggest a last-ditch effort by mediators for a 45-day ceasefire. Pakistan has reportedly proposed a two-stage plan to end the conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The framework involves an immediate ceasefire followed by a final agreement within 15 to 20 days. Under the proposal, Iran would forego nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and access to frozen funds. Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir reportedly held talks with US Vice President J.D. Vance, US envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to coordinate the plan.


Pakistan Making Peace Efforts and Fighting a War on Two Separate Fronts

 Pakistan is staring at a fresh financial squeezes critical foreign loans come due, and support from allies turns uncertain. The country is now battling pressures on multiple fronts. Pakistan’s latest financial stress point begins with the UAE. Islamabad is set to repay 3.5 billion dollars to Abu Dhabi this month, after the UAE refused to extend its long-standing loan rollovers.


Pakistan’s Financial Stress Reaches Breaking Point

Pakistan is under severe foreign exchange pressure as the country prepares to meet roughly $4.8 billion in external debt repayments in April, straining reserves and raising concerns about currency stability. Analysts warn that these outflows, combined with slowing export revenues and import costs, could heighten inflation, weaken the rupee further, and force new negotiations with multilateral lenders.


Pakistan Faces Forex Stress Amid $4.8 Bn Repayments in April

Pakistan announces free access to state-run public transport for 30 days, aiming to ease commuting costs for citizens and support economic relief measures. This initiative covers buses, trains, and metro services across major cities, offering temporary financial relief and encouraging public transport use.


Pakistan Authorities Free State-Run Public Transport for 30-Days 

Pakistan’s efforts to secure a ceasefire through back-channel diplomatic exchanges have reportedly failed to produce a breakthrough, underscoring continued tensions in the region. Despite quiet contacts aimed at easing hostilities and opening space for dialogue, officials indicated that key disagreements remain unresolved. 


Pakistan's Ceasefire Efforts Fail Despite Back-Channel Exchanges

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain high as Islamabad urges Kabul to take firm action against militant groups. Preliminary talks held in Urumqi follow a key visit by Ishaq Dar to Beijing. The discussions mark a cautious step toward easing tensions, though major challenges still remain on security and trust.


Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions: Taliban Says 25 Civilians Dead In Recent Rocket, Drone Strikes

Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions: Taliban Accuses Pakistan Of Cross-Border Violence

Fuel prices have surged in Pakistan amid the West Asia war, and the global oil spike has pushed Pakistan's fuel prices up. Diesel prices up by 55%, and Petrol up by 43%. Government of Pakistan cites global oil rally for price shock. Back-to-back fuel hikes are likely to fuel inflation. Oil price hikes are affecting the daily lives of the public. Watch this report for more details!


Pakistan Hikes Fuel Prices Amid Iran War, Diesel Up 55%, Petrol Up 43% In Pak 

Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions: Islamabad Urges Kabul To Take Action Against Terrorists

Pakistan has placed responsibility on Afghanistan to help end escalating tensions along their shared border, urging Kabul to take stronger action against militant groups operating from its territory. The remarks come amid renewed clashes and security concerns in frontier regions, with Islamabad calling for cooperation to restore stability and prevent further violence.


Pak-Afghan Conflict: Pakistan Puts Onus on Afghanistan to End Conflict 

In a major revelation, Indian Navy Chief Dinesh K Tripathi has said that the Navy was just minutes away from launching strikes on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The statement offers a rare glimpse into how close the situation came to a potential escalation at sea.


BREAKING: Indian Navy Was Minutes Away From Striking Pakistan During Op Sindoor, Says Navy Chief

Pakistan and China have called for the restoration of safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions linked to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Both countries stressed the importance of keeping critical global energy routes open and urged restraint to prevent further escalation that could disrupt international shipping and oil supplies. 

Pakistan, China Call for Restoring Navigation in Strait of Hormuz 

Pakistan and China have called for the restoration of safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions linked to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Both countries stressed the importance of keeping critical global energy routes open and urged restraint to prevent further escalation that could disrupt international shipping and oil supplies. 


Pakistan, China Call for Restoring Navigation in Strait of Hormuz

"Fakhar Zaman has been suspended for two HBL PSL matches after he was found guilty of a Level 3 offence for breaching Article 2.14 of the applicable Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel during the Lahore Qalandars v Karachi Kings match on Sunday," PSL said in a media release.


Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman Found Guilty For Ball Tempering; Banned From Two PSL Match

Deadly floods triggered by heavy rains have killed dozens of people across Pakistan and Afghanistan. The disaster has damaged homes, roads, and infrastructure in several regions already facing instability. Rescue teams are struggling to reach affected communities as the humanitarian crisis deepens.


Pakistan Floods: Deadly Floods Kill Dozens In Pak, Afghanistan Amid War | Pakistan-Afghanistan War

Terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar's brother Mohammad Tahir Anwar has reportedly died in Pakistan, with no clarity yet on the cause of his death. Tahir Anwar, one of the five brothers of Masood was involved in the terror group's activities for several years. His death was announced through the outfit’s Telegram channel, which said his funeral will be held at 11 pm at Jamia Usman-o-Ali in Bahawalpur. However, there has been no official clarification on the circumstances surrounding his death. The announcement did not cite illness or any specific incident, with Pakistani media reporting only about the death and funeral.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-masood-azhar-s-family-was-wiped-out-jaish-commander-s-big-admission-four-months-after-operation-sindoor-india-pakistan-1758016080216">'Masood Azhar's family was wiped out': Jaish commander's big admission</a><h2>Who is Masood Azhar?</h2>Maulana Masood Azhar, born in 1968 in Bahawalpur, has long been one of India’s most wanted terrorists. Before founding JeM, Azhar was an active member and cleric with Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), an Islamist militant outfit active in Afghanistan and Kashmir. In 1994, Azhar was arrested in Jammu and Kashmir while attempting to mediate between feuding factions of HuM under a fake identity.&nbsp;In December 1999, HuM hijacked Indian Airlines Flight IC-814, which was en route from Kathmandu to Delhi. The hijackers diverted the aircraft to Kandahar, Afghanistan, then under Taliban control. They demanded the release of Azhar and two others. After days of tense negotiations, India released Azhar along with Omar Sheikh and Mushtaq Zargar in exchange for the 190 passengers and crew members. Shortly after his release, Azhar publicly declared his goal of "destroying India" and founded Jaish-e-Mohammed on January 31, 2000, in Karachi. The organisation was reportedly backed by the ISI, the Taliban, and even Osama bin Laden. His earlier group, Harkat-ul-Ansar, which evolved into HuM, was designated as a terrorist organisation by the CIA in the late 1990s. The CIA reported that HuA was involved in kidnappings and killings of Westerners, and served Pakistan’s proxy interests in Kashmir.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jem-chief-masood-azhar-claims-thousands-of-suicide-bombers-are-ready-to-strike-1768149775065">JeM chief Masood Azhar claims thousands of suicide bombers are ready to strike</a><h2>Strikes in Bahawalpur: The heart of JeM</h2>Notably, in 2025, India, under Operation Sindoor hit Bahawalpur, a major city in Pakistan's Punjab province, that serves as the ideological and operational nerve center of JeM. Located around 400 km from Lahore, Bahawalpur houses the infamous Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah complex, also known as the Usman-o-Ali campus, where JeM’s leadership reportedly directs fundraising, recruitment, and radical indoctrination activities.

In September, JeM commander Masood Ilyas admitted that Masood Azhar's family was ‘torn into pieces’ in Bahawalpur in India's Op Sindoor. “After sacrificing everything, on May 7, Maulana Masood Azhar's family was destroyed in Bahawalpur," said the JeM commander referring to Operation Sindoor by Indian armed forces.

Mohammad Tahir Anwar, brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, has died in Pakistan under unclear circumstances. Masood Azhar, founder of the JeM terror group linked to Al-Qaeda and the Taliban, has orchestrated multiple attacks on India, with JeM’s operational hub in Bahawalpur.

Terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar's brother Mohammad Tahir Anwar has reportedly died in Pakistan, with no clarity yet on the cause of his death. Tahir Anwar, one of the five brothers of Masood was involved in the terror group's activities for several years. His death was announced through the outfit’s Telegram channel, which said his funeral will be held at 11 pm at Jamia Usman-o-Ali in Bahawalpur. However, there has been no official clarification on the circumstances surrounding his death. The announcement did not cite illness or any specific incident, with Pakistani media reporting only about the death and funeral. Also Read: 'Masood Azhar's family was wiped out': Jaish commander's big admission Who is Masood Azhar? Maulana Masood Azhar, born in 1968 in Bahawalpur, has long been one of India’s most wanted terrorists. Before founding JeM, Azhar was an active member and cleric with Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM), an Islamist militant outfit active in Afghanistan and Kashmir. In 1994, Azhar was arrested in Jammu and Kashmir while attempting to mediate between feuding factions of HuM under a fake identity. In December 1999, HuM hijacked Indian Airlines Flight IC-814, which was en route from Kathmandu to Delhi. The hijackers diverted the aircraft to Kandahar, Afghanistan, then under Taliban control. They demanded the release of Azhar and two others. After days of tense negotiations, India released Azhar along with Omar Sheikh and Mushtaq Zargar in exchange for the 190 passengers and crew members. Shortly after his release, Azhar publicly declared his goal of "destroying India" and founded Jaish-e-Mohammed on January 31, 2000, in Karachi. The organisation was reportedly backed by the ISI, the Taliban, and even Osama bin Laden. His earlier group, Harkat-ul-Ansar, which evolved into HuM, was designated as a terrorist organisation by the CIA in the late 1990s. The CIA reported that HuA was involved in kidnappings and killings of Westerners, and served Pakistan’s proxy interests in Kashmir. Also Read: JeM chief Masood Azhar claims thousands of suicide bombers are ready to strike Strikes in Bahawalpur: The heart of JeM Notably, in 2025, India, under Operation Sindoor hit Bahawalpur, a major city in Pakistan's Punjab province, that serves as the ideological and operational nerve center of JeM. Located around 400 km from Lahore, Bahawalpur houses the infamous Jamia Masjid Subhan Allah complex, also known as the Usman-o-Ali campus, where JeM’s leadership reportedly directs fundraising, recruitment, and radical indoctrination activities.

Mohammad Tahir Anwar, brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, has died in Pakistan under unclear circumstances. Masood Azhar, founder of the JeM terror group linked to Al-Qaeda and the Taliban, has orchestrated multiple attacks on India, with JeM’s operational hub in Bahawalpur.

Jaish chief Masood Azhar’s brother dies in Pakistan under mysterious circumstances: Reports

Pakistan Floods: Deadly Floods Kill Dozens In Pak, Afghanistan Amid War

Pakistan's terror face has been exposed yet again by a latest report by U.S. Congressional research service. The report not only identified Pakistan as a base for numerous terrorist groups but also nailed their role in carrying out attacks on Indian soil. 


US Congress Report Nails Pakistan's Role in Formenting Terrorism on India

Pakistan has said it is ready to host talks between the United States and Iran as part of efforts to end the ongoing conflict. Officials stated Islamabad would be “honoured” to facilitate negotiations in the coming days, though participation from both sides remains unconfirmed.

The announcement came as top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt gathered in Islamabad for high-level discussions focused on de-escalation and a possible diplomatic pathway forward.

Talks have centred on reducing tensions, reopening key trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz, and exploring options for direct or indirect dialogue between Washington and Tehran.

Iran-US Talks: Diplomats From Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey Converge in Islamabad

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has scrapped its proposed “Imran Khan Release Force” following legal concerns and internal resistance within the party. Leaders warned the plan could be seen as unconstitutional and potentially militant.

The proposal, aimed at mobilising supporters for the release of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, has now been replaced with a broader political movement. PTI leadership has stressed that any future mobilisation will be peaceful and democratic, ruling out any force-based structure.

Pakistan: PTI Drops ‘Imran Khan Release Force’ Plan After Internal Pushback | WION

Fresh violence has erupted along the tense Pakistan-Afghanistan border after shelling reportedly struck residential areas in Asadabad, in Afghanistan’s Kunar province. At least one person has been killed and more than fifteen others, including women and children, have been injured in the cross-border mortar attack.

Pak Vs Afghan: Afghanistan Claims 1 Killed And 16 Injured In Pakistani Attacks

New Delhi: A fresh U.S. Congressional Research Service (CRS) report has highlighted that Pakistan remains a persistent hub for terrorist groups. For India, the report carries a familiar and troubling message -groups long focused on India, particularly the union territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, continue to operate from Pakistani soil with apparent impunity.The March 25, 2026, CRS "In Focus" brief details 15 outfits, many designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) by the US. The report points to enduring threats from "India- and Kashmir-oriented terror groups" such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI), Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HuM), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-news-will-say-trump-rebrands-hormuz-the-strait-of-trump-was-it-a-slip-of-tongue-or-deliberate-watch-1774667533281">Trump rebrands Hormuz 'Strait of Trump': A slip of tongue or a hidden message?</a>LeT, formed in the late 1980s and designated an FTO in 2001, remains based in Pakistan's Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Report says, "led by now incarcerated Hafiz Saeed", it "has changed its name to Jamaat-ud-Dawa to circumvent sanctions". With "several thousand fighters", LeT orchestrated the 2008 Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people.JeM, founded in 2000 by Masood Azhar and also designated in 2001, joined LeT in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. It says JEM's roughly 500 armed supporters THAT operate in India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan while seeking "annexation" of Indian union territory of J&amp;K into Pakistan. It also says, "JEM has openly declared war on the United States." &nbsp;The report notes these groups operate alongside globally oriented outfits like Al Qaeda and its Indian Subcontinent affiliate (AQIS)."Several major military offensives, including airstrikes, and hundreds of thousands of 'intelligence-based operations' have failed to defeat the numerous U.S.- and United Nations-designated terrorist groups that continue to operate on Pakistani soil," the CRS states. A 2014 National Action Plan aimed to eliminate armed terror groups and militias, yet the groups persist.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kp-sharma-oli-arrested-nepal-s-former-pm-home-minister-detained-over-gen-z-protest-september-massacre-1774663378412">Nepal former PM KP Oli arrested over Gen Z protest 'September massacre'</a>Pakistan took "some steps to curtail" terrorist activities in 2023, per the US State Department, but madrassas continue teaching doctrines that "could lead to greater acceptance of violent extremist ideology." For India, the implications are stark. Kashmir-focused groups like Hizbul Mujahideen, formed in 1989, designated as a terror group by the US in 2017 has a cadre of 1500 who seek "independence for Kashmir or annexation of UT of J&amp;K into Pakistan."The CRS report, prepared by South Asia specialist K. Alan Kronstadt, paints Pakistan as both victim and enabler. While Islamabad battles a domestic surge in violence, with separatism in restive Baluchistan province, and a deteriorating situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it continues to host terror networks that have long targeted India.The report divides terror and other groups operating in Pakistan into five broad, often overlapping categories: globally oriented, Afghanistan-oriented, India- and Kashmir-focused, domestically oriented, and sectarian (anti-Shia). Pakistan's inability, or unwillingness, to fully dismantle these outfits keeps tensions high with its neighbours. India maintains that addressing cross-border terrorism remains essential for lasting peace, a stance reinforced by the latest American assessment of persistent terror infrastructure on Pakistani territory.

"Several major military offensives, including airstrikes, and hundreds of thousands of 'intelligence-based operations' have failed to defeat the numerous U.S.- and United Nations-designated terrorist groups that continue to operate on Pakistani soil," the CRS states.

New Delhi: A fresh U.S. Congressional Research Service (CRS) report has highlighted that Pakistan remains a persistent hub for terrorist groups. For India, the report carries a familiar and troubling message -groups long focused on India, particularly the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, continue to operate from Pakistani soil with apparent impunity. The March 25, 2026, CRS "In Focus" brief details 15 outfits, many designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) by the US. The report points to enduring threats from "India- and Kashmir-oriented terror groups" such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI), Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HuM), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). Also read | Trump rebrands Hormuz 'Strait of Trump': A slip of tongue or a hidden message? LeT, formed in the late 1980s and designated an FTO in 2001, remains based in Pakistan's Punjab and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Report says, "led by now incarcerated Hafiz Saeed", it "has changed its name to Jamaat-ud-Dawa to circumvent sanctions". With "several thousand fighters", LeT orchestrated the 2008 Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people. JeM, founded in 2000 by Masood Azhar and also designated in 2001, joined LeT in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. It says JEM's roughly 500 armed supporters THAT operate in India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan while seeking "annexation" of Indian union territory of J&K into Pakistan. It also says, "JEM has openly declared war on the United States." The report notes these groups operate alongside globally oriented outfits like Al Qaeda and its Indian Subcontinent affiliate (AQIS). "Several major military offensives, including airstrikes, and hundreds of thousands of 'intelligence-based operations' have failed to defeat the numerous U.S.- and United Nations-designated terrorist groups that continue to operate on Pakistani soil," the CRS states. A 2014 National Action Plan aimed to eliminate armed terror groups and militias, yet the groups persist. Also read | Nepal former PM KP Oli arrested over Gen Z protest 'September massacre' Pakistan took "some steps to curtail" terrorist activities in 2023, per the US State Department, but madrassas continue teaching doctrines that "could lead to greater acceptance of violent extremist ideology." For India, the implications are stark. Kashmir-focused groups like Hizbul Mujahideen, formed in 1989, designated as a terror group by the US in 2017 has a cadre of 1500 who seek "independence for Kashmir or annexation of UT of J&K into Pakistan." The CRS report, prepared by South Asia specialist K. Alan Kronstadt, paints Pakistan as both victim and enabler. While Islamabad battles a domestic surge in violence, with separatism in restive Baluchistan province, and a deteriorating situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it continues to host terror networks that have long targeted India. The report divides terror and other groups operating in Pakistan into five broad, often overlapping categories: globally oriented, Afghanistan-oriented, India- and Kashmir-focused, domestically oriented, and sectarian (anti-Shia). Pakistan's inability, or unwillingness, to fully dismantle these outfits keeps tensions high with its neighbours. India maintains that addressing cross-border terrorism remains essential for lasting peace, a stance reinforced by the latest American assessment of persistent terror infrastructure on Pakistani territory.

"Several major military offensives, including airstrikes, and hundreds of thousands of 'intelligence-based operations' have failed to defeat the numerous U.S.- and United Nations-designated terrorist groups that continue to operate on Pakistani soil," the CRS states.

Pakistan continues to harbour terror groups against India, warns US Congressional report

After reports emerged of Israel-US strike near Pakistan embassy in the Iranian capital Tehran on Thursday (March 26), Pakistan Strategic Forum, affiliated to the government released a statement saying that any harm to its diplomats, whether in Iran or elsewhere by Israel, will be met with a strong response.&nbsp;“Israel must remember, Pakistan is no Qatar. We will beat hell out of them if any harm occurred to our diplomats, anywhere in the world", read the statement by Pakistan Strategic Forum.&nbsp;The threat comes amid reports of Israel and United States carrying out fresh airstrikes in central Tehran on Thursday. The strikes, as reported were close to the residence of Pakistan’s ambassador and the Pakistani Embassy.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-strait-of-hormuz-bab-al-mandab-next-houthi-rebels-threaten-global-trade-lifeline-say-fully-militarily-ready-to-support-iran-1774575420107">After Hormuz, Bab al-Mandab Strait next? Houthi rebels threaten global trade lifeline, say 'fully militarily ready' to back Iran's war efforts</a>&nbsp;Though, the Pakistani ambassador was unhurt, the embassy compound and several other buildings in the vicinity shook violently in the explosion.<h2>Pakistan offers to broker peace between US, Iran</h2>The strike near its embassy in Tehran comes at a time when Pakistan is attempting to facilitate dialogue between US and Iran. Several senior officials in the Pakistani administration have come out in the open and said that “if both parties desire, Islamabad is willing to host talks" between the United States and Iran.&nbsp;Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said Islamabad was “ready and honoured” to facilitate “meaningful and conclusive talks” between the US and Iran.Notably, Washington has often used Pakistan as a channel to engaged with Tehran over the years. &nbsp;

The strike by Israel near its embassy in Tehran comes at a time when Pakistan is attempting to facilitate dialogue between the two waring nation, US and Iran. 

After reports emerged of Israel-US strike near Pakistan embassy in the Iranian capital Tehran on Thursday (March 26), Pakistan Strategic Forum, affiliated to the government released a statement saying that any harm to its diplomats, whether in Iran or elsewhere by Israel, will be met with a strong response. “Israel must remember, Pakistan is no Qatar. We will beat hell out of them if any harm occurred to our diplomats, anywhere in the world", read the statement by Pakistan Strategic Forum. The threat comes amid reports of Israel and United States carrying out fresh airstrikes in central Tehran on Thursday. The strikes, as reported were close to the residence of Pakistan’s ambassador and the Pakistani Embassy. ALSO READ: After Hormuz, Bab al-Mandab Strait next? Houthi rebels threaten global trade lifeline, say 'fully militarily ready' to back Iran's war efforts Though, the Pakistani ambassador was unhurt, the embassy compound and several other buildings in the vicinity shook violently in the explosion. Pakistan offers to broker peace between US, Iran The strike near its embassy in Tehran comes at a time when Pakistan is attempting to facilitate dialogue between US and Iran. Several senior officials in the Pakistani administration have come out in the open and said that “if both parties desire, Islamabad is willing to host talks" between the United States and Iran. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said Islamabad was “ready and honoured” to facilitate “meaningful and conclusive talks” between the US and Iran. Notably, Washington has often used Pakistan as a channel to engaged with Tehran over the years.

The strike by Israel near its embassy in Tehran comes at a time when Pakistan is attempting to facilitate dialogue between the two waring nation, US and Iran.&nbsp;

Pakistan is no Qatar. We will beat hell out of Israel if diplomats are harmed: Pak think tank

Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched multiple raids across the Kashmir Valley in connection with a transnational terror case.

India: J&K Police Conduct Raids Across Kashmir in Transnational Terror Probe | WION

Amid ongoing war in West Asia, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday (Mar 25) ook a swipe at Washington’s shifting goals in the conflict and commented on the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid Iran allowing ships from Pakistan to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. It also comes at the backdrop of reports that Pakistan is eyeing a mediator role between Iran and the US as US President Donald Trump hinted at a peace deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-eyes-peace-broker-role-between-us-and-iran-as-trump-halts-war-what-we-know-1774339285051">Pakistan eyes peace broker role between US and Iran as Trump halts war? What we know</a>&nbsp;"The goal of the war seems to have shifted to opening the Strait of Hormuz, which was open before the war", Asif wrote in a post on X. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared a similar post, saying, “Pakistan welcomes and fully supports ongoing efforts to pursue dialogue to end the WAR in Middle East, in the interest of peace and stability in region and beyond." "Subject to concurrence by the US and Iran, Pakistan stands ready and honoured to be the host to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement of the ongoing conflict," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-allows-india-to-use-strait-of-hormuz-amid-energy-crisis-pakistan-china-other-countries-on-the-list-1774504190136">Iran allows India to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis — Check 4 other countries on the list</a><h2>Pakistan the mediator?</h2>While Trump did share a Pakistan PM's post about mediation, Responding to the development, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that nothing concrete could be said. In response to an ANI query, Leavitt said that it should not be deemed as final until it is formally announced by the White House. Leavitt responded, “These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and the US will not negotiate through the press. This is a fluid situation, and speculation about meetings should not be deemed as final until they are formally announced by the White House.” Interestingly, on March 12, when Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for the first time spoke about conditions that the Islamic Republic would put forward to end the war, he had held a telephonic conversation with leaders of Russia and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reports also indicate that Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke to Trump on Sunday, followed by a phone call between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Channel 12 reported quoting sources that US Vice President JD Vance, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet with Iranian officials in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Amid the West Asia war, Khawaja Asif criticised Washington’s shifting war goals, linking them to the Strait of Hormuz. As Iran allows Pakistan ships passage, Shehbaz Sharif offered to mediate US-Iran talks, though the US called it speculative.

Amid ongoing war in West Asia, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday (Mar 25) ook a swipe at Washington’s shifting goals in the conflict and commented on the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid Iran allowing ships from Pakistan to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. It also comes at the backdrop of reports that Pakistan is eyeing a mediator role between Iran and the US as US President Donald Trump hinted at a peace deal. Also Read: Pakistan eyes peace broker role between US and Iran as Trump halts war? What we know "The goal of the war seems to have shifted to opening the Strait of Hormuz, which was open before the war", Asif wrote in a post on X. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared a similar post, saying, “Pakistan welcomes and fully supports ongoing efforts to pursue dialogue to end the WAR in Middle East, in the interest of peace and stability in region and beyond." "Subject to concurrence by the US and Iran, Pakistan stands ready and honoured to be the host to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement of the ongoing conflict," he added. Also Read: Iran allows India to use Strait of Hormuz amid energy crisis — Check 4 other countries on the list Pakistan the mediator? While Trump did share a Pakistan PM's post about mediation, Responding to the development, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that nothing concrete could be said. In response to an ANI query, Leavitt said that it should not be deemed as final until it is formally announced by the White House. Leavitt responded, “These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and the US will not negotiate through the press. This is a fluid situation, and speculation about meetings should not be deemed as final until they are formally announced by the White House.” Interestingly, on March 12, when Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for the first time spoke about conditions that the Islamic Republic would put forward to end the war, he had held a telephonic conversation with leaders of Russia and Pakistan. Reports also indicate that Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke to Trump on Sunday, followed by a phone call between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Channel 12 reported quoting sources that US Vice President JD Vance, US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet with Iranian officials in Islamabad.

Amid the West Asia war, Khawaja Asif criticised Washington’s shifting war goals, linking them to the Strait of Hormuz. As Iran allows Pakistan ships passage, Shehbaz Sharif offered to mediate US-Iran talks, though the US called it speculative.

Did Pakistan Defence Minister just mock US over Strait of Hormuz claims?

Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Thursday carried out a series of coordinated pre-dawn raids across the Kashmir Valley, targeting suspected operatives linked to a transnational terror module of the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).The investigation centres on a network allegedly directed by Shabir Ahmad Lone, a native of Kangan in Ganderbal district and an LeT operative currently based in Bangladesh. Officials said the module was receiving instructions from handlers operating out of both Bangladesh and Pakistan.According to sources, the group was involved in recruitment, logistics, and the movement of funds to support terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir.The raids were conducted in Srinagar, Shopian, and Ganderbal districts, with at least ten locations searched. A significant focus was placed on Ganderbal, where multiple sites linked to suspected associates were examined. Teams searched for digital devices, arms, explosives, and incriminating material, including extremist propaganda.The operation was carried out under court-issued search warrants in connection with a newly registered case at CIK Police Station. CIK teams were assisted by local police and CRPF personnel.While no arrests had been officially confirmed, officials indicated that the searches could lead to major breakthroughs in uncovering the wider network and its cross-border links.The ongoing operation follows recent intelligence inputs and is believed to be connected to a similar module uncovered last month by the Delhi Police Special Cell, in which three operatives were arrested for allegedly facilitating funding and recruitment from Bangladesh to Kashmir.Security agencies believe the network was attempting to revive hybrid terrorists in the Valley, combining traditional terror methods with online radicalisation efforts.

While no arrests had been officially confirmed, officials indicated that the searches could lead to major breakthroughs in uncovering the wider network and its cross-border links.

Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Thursday carried out a series of coordinated pre-dawn raids across the Kashmir Valley, targeting suspected operatives linked to a transnational terror module of the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The investigation centres on a network allegedly directed by Shabir Ahmad Lone, a native of Kangan in Ganderbal district and an LeT operative currently based in Bangladesh. Officials said the module was receiving instructions from handlers operating out of both Bangladesh and Pakistan. According to sources, the group was involved in recruitment, logistics, and the movement of funds to support terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The raids were conducted in Srinagar, Shopian, and Ganderbal districts, with at least ten locations searched. A significant focus was placed on Ganderbal, where multiple sites linked to suspected associates were examined. Teams searched for digital devices, arms, explosives, and incriminating material, including extremist propaganda. The operation was carried out under court-issued search warrants in connection with a newly registered case at CIK Police Station. CIK teams were assisted by local police and CRPF personnel. While no arrests had been officially confirmed, officials indicated that the searches could lead to major breakthroughs in uncovering the wider network and its cross-border links. The ongoing operation follows recent intelligence inputs and is believed to be connected to a similar module uncovered last month by the Delhi Police Special Cell, in which three operatives were arrested for allegedly facilitating funding and recruitment from Bangladesh to Kashmir. Security agencies believe the network was attempting to revive hybrid terrorists in the Valley, combining traditional terror methods with online radicalisation efforts.

While no arrests had been officially confirmed, officials indicated that the searches could lead to major breakthroughs in uncovering the wider network and its cross-border links.

CIK launches raids in Kashmir Valley, targets LeT module linked to Bangladesh and Pakistan

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman castigated Pakistan for carrying out a genocide of civilians in 1971. His strong stance comes after Muhammad Yunus' tenure witnessed growing bonhomie between Pakistan and Bangladesh. This is perceived to be the beginning of a strategic shift away from Pakistan.


Bangladesh Condemns Pakistan Over 1971 Genocide | Signals Shift From Islamabad

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