Heavy Border Clashes Between Afghan & Pakistani Forces Heavy clashes have been reported bet...
"Heavy Border Clashes Between Afghan & Pakistani Forces Heavy clashes have been reported between Afghan Taliban forces and Pakistani forces along the AfghanistanPakistan border, with both sides reportedly exchanging fire using heavy weapons and mortars. https://t.co/RCxiTqlBvQ"
Background
Heavy border clashes have erupted between Afghan Taliban forces and Pakistani military units, marking a significant escalation in tensions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Reports indicate that both sides have resorted to heavy artillery, including mortar fire, which raises concerns about the stability of the region. The ongoing conflict has its roots in historical disputes over territorial sovereignty and differing political agendas.
Analysis
The clashes are not merely isolated incidents but rather part of a broader spectrum of instability pervasive in the region. The return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan has complicated relationships with its neighbors, particularly Pakistan. Both countries share a tumultuous history characterized by mistrust and armed conflict. The heavy military engagement is indicative of both sides demonstrating their resolve to maintain territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Despite the recent violence, it is essential to acknowledge the efforts being made towards de-escalation and dialogue. Historically, both nations have shown an inclination towards diplomatic resolutions, which suggests that this current situation may be an opportunity for renewed discussions on border management and cooperation.
International Response
The international community has expressed increasing concern regarding the recent clashes. Key stakeholders, including neighboring countries and global powers, have called for restraint and dialogue between the Afghan and Pakistani forces. The United Nations Security Council has urged both parties to prioritize stability and engage in constructive dialogues to prevent further escalation.
Various humanitarian organizations have also expressed their willingness to mediate, highlighting the need for collaboration to address the humanitarian implications of the conflict. As armed clashes continue, the risk of civilian displacement increases, which could lead to a larger humanitarian crisis in the region.
Looking Forward
In light of the recent events along the border, it is crucial for both Afghan and Pakistani leadership to recognize the dire need for resolution and peace. Although the potential for further conflict looms, this moment can also serve as a catalyst for renewed diplomatic efforts. International support and pressure may play a pivotal role in guiding both nations towards productive dialogue.
Moving forward, establishing a framework for peaceful coexistence and conflict resolution will be vital not only for the immediate stability of the border region but also for laying the groundwork for long-term peace. Collaborative measures and joint initiatives between Afghanistan and Pakistan may foster a conducive environment for economic cooperation, ultimately benefiting both nations.
After 1965 war, PAF had a thorough review of its operational bases and found out that 50% of its fight...
"After 1965 war, PAF had a thorough review of its operational bases and found out that 50% of its fighting assets were stationed at Sargodha complex alone, at which a lucky shot by Canbera bombers might have a disastrous effect in future ! Air Marshal Nur Khan ordered a green field new airbase after 3 workhorses ; Mauripur (Karachi)Sargodha Peshawar Original choice was Jhang city in Punjab but due to expensive land, it was shifted down south to dreary little town of Shorkot, which had railway junction and direct access to Sui gas pipeline + 220 KV electricity transmission line on multan-faisalabad section.It was named PAF base "Rafiqui" after outstanding fighter pilot Squardon Leader Sarfaraz Rafiqui, S.Jon his first anniversary in sep 1966. After the biggest firepower security at Jamrud range in nov 1967, No 23 squardon with F-6 activated this new eagles nest for two weeks and handed it over to care and maintenance unit (C&MU) with 1 officer and 20 airmen !Plessey AR-1 low level radar and dozens of bofors L-60 anti aircraft guns followed suit next year. Finally, in sep 1971 group captain syed zaheer Hussain was appointed first base commander and No. 17 squardon with F-86E sabres moved in from Masroor to make it operational permanently !2 IAF Su-7 fighter jets of No 32 sqn flying from amritsar to shorkot were shotdown by AAA guns on 4th & 5th dec strikes viz ;Flt Lt M.S Grewal (PoW)Flt Lt V V Tambay (KIA)Rafiqui also lost 2 sabre jets parked on open ground but dummies of F-6 painted on tarmac and wooden clones distracted bogeys and avoided shooting at real targets in pens ... B-57 bombers were also staged through to hit Agra airbase in U.P (deepest strike ever mounted by either side)On 6th Dec, IAF Canberas struck in force and cratered runway which was patched up after serious trouble of 3 days during intense bombardment from the air as many bombs fell haywire in nearby villages, killing many rural folks. Sabres flew relentlessly in Suleimanke sector and helped in close air support missions. That is how "baptism with fire" of 1971 ended of this youngest addition to PAF network !"
Background
Following the 1965 war, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) undertook a comprehensive assessment of its operational bases, revealing that an alarming 50% of its fighting assets were located at the Sargodha complex. Given the vulnerabilities exposed by the war, Air Marshal Nur Khan recognized the need for strategic relocation and expansion of aerial assets. In a bid to ensure future safety and operational efficiency, plans were made to establish a new airbase.
Choosing a Strategic Location
Initially, Jhang in Punjab was considered for the new base; however, due to high land costs, the focus shifted south to the less-populated town of Shorkot. The selected site offered essential advantages, including a railway junction, direct access to the Sui gas pipeline, and a 220 KV electricity transmission line on the Multan-Faisalabad section. Named PAF Base Rafiqui after Squadron Leader Sarfaraz Rafiqui on the first anniversary of his demise in September 1966, this new base symbolized a significant step in strengthening PAF's operational capabilities.
Analysis
The development of Rafiqui Airbase was pivotal for several strategic reasons. The inaugural security of firepower at the Jamrud range in November 1967 showcased the base's potential. Shortly thereafter, No. 23 Squadron, equipped with F-6 aircraft, occupied Rafiqui for expansive training and operational readiness. The addition of advanced radar systems and Bofors anti-aircraft guns solidified its defensive posture. This preparation was crucial as tensions escalated leading to the 1971 conflict.
Pivotal Battles and Tactical Movements
In the wake of the war, Rafiqui's operational capabilities were put to the test. On December 4 and 5, IAF Sukhoi fighters attempted strikes on the airbase, but PAF's robust defenses led to the successful interception of enemy aircraft. Using deceptive tactics, such as dummies of F-6 aircraft on the tarmac, Rafiqui's defense forces were able to mislead enemy strikes, preserving essential assets. This critical thinking and resilience demonstrated the adaptability and resourcefulness of PAF personnel under pressure.
International Response
The establishment of Rafiqui Airbase and its subsequent operational readiness were noted by neighboring nations, illustrating a shift in the regional balance of air power. The aerial engagements not only reflected tactical advancements but also highlighted the growing importance of air superiority in modern warfare. These developments invited responses from various international stakeholders concerned about the escalating military capabilities in the region.
Looking Forward
As the PAF continues to modernize its fleet and infrastructure in the years to come, the legacy of Rafiqui Airbase will remain a testament to strategic foresight and resilience. The lessons learned from its operational history will undoubtedly shape future military doctrines and air defense strategies. A continued commitment to innovation and adaptation will be essential for maintaining air security and sovereignty in Pakistan, ensuring that the sacrifices of past heroes inform the direction of its air force.
According to sources, the people were stopped while they were transporting their belongings in vehicles to leave the area.
The hostages were identified as four brothers, Rehmanullah, Farmanullah, Laiq and Sadiq; Mir Ali, Mohammad Raziq, Azim Khan and three brothers, including Sameen, Hamidullah and Rakhidullah. Three other individuals could not be identified.
Police have not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, police sources confirmed the incident.
Meanwhile, a photograph purportedly showing the alleged hostages has also circulated on social media.
The photograph also appears to show Nasir alias Gidarh, a local commander of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. The photograph and the identities of those shown in it could not be independently verified.
Local sources said terrorists were allegedly trying to prevent residents from leaving the area and had imposed certain restrictions on those seeking to relocate.
According to the sources, some families who failed to comply with the conditions allegedly had their houses demolished. These claims, however, could not be officially confirmed.
The deteriorating security situation in Hathikhel and adjoining mountainous areas has continued to cause difficulties for residents, with several families reportedly moving to safer locations.
Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2026
]]>The then SHOs of Shah Latif Town and Sachal police, Amanullah Marwat and Shaikh Muhammad Shoaib alias Shooter; assistant sub-inspector (ASI) Gada Hussain; head constables Sadaqat Ali and Mohsin Abbasi; and constables Raja Shamim and Rana Riaz Ahmed were facing trial for allegedly killing Naseemullah, better known as Naqeebullah Mehsud, Mohammad Sabir, Nazar Jan and Mohammad Ishaq in an alleged staged encounter in January 2018.
After examining the witnesses and hearing concluding arguments from both sides, the judge of ATC-VI exonerated the accused persons for lack of evidence.
Prosecutor Anila Malik argued that the prosecution examined over 40 witnesses, including star witnesses and they linked the accused persons with the commission of offences and documentary evidence also corroborated their testimonies.
Former SSP Rao Anwar was acquitted in the same case in 2023
She also contended that the prosecution established its case against all the accused persons beyond a shadow of reasonable doubt and pleaded for conviction.
However, defence lawyer Farzana Mateen submitted that all accused persons facing trial were framed with mala fide intention and that out of 40, not a single witness directly implicated any of the accused in the case.
She also maintained that there were glaring contradictions in the evidence of prosecution witnesses while two star witnesses about the abduction of Hazrat Ali and Muhammad Qasim did not associate the present accused persons in their statements recorded under Section 164 CrPC by a judicial magistrate and had also not identified these accused persons as the culprits during their evidence before the trial court.
The defence lawyer further argued that there was no allegation of abduction of the deceased against the accused persons and the prosecution has also failed to prove their participation in the alleged encounter.
She maintained that many accused persons, including a former senior superintendent of police, had already been exonerated by the trial court in the first round of litigation for want of evidence and she pleaded for acquittal of the present accused persons as well.
Initially, the then SSP Malir Rao Anwar, along with his around two dozen subordinates, had been booked for allegedly murdering Naqeebullah and others in an alleged staged encounter in a Malir locality and dubbing them as militants.
According to the prosecution, Naqeebullah was picked up with his two friends allegedly by eight to nine subordinates of Rao Anwar in civvies. Later, the other two detainees were set free while the whereabouts of Mehsud remained unknown and his mobile phone was also found powered off, as the former SSP allegedly kept him in wrongful detention.
It further stated that on Jan 17, the captive’s relatives came to know through the media that Rao Anwar and his associates allegedly killed Mehsud and three others in a staged encounter in a Shah Latif Town area on Jan 13 and dubbed them as Taliban militants.
The provincial police officer had constituted a three-member inquiry committee that found Rao Anwar and his associates involved in the case, it added.
However, in January 2023, the trial court acquitted the former SSP and 17 members of his team by extending the benefit of doubt. As the state had opted not to impugn the acquittal order, a brother of Naqeeb had filed an appeal before the Sindh High Court against their acquittal.
The present accused persons were absconders during the first trial, and after the exoneration of SSP and others, they had surrendered before the court to face the trial, and all of them were set free on bail in April this year.
Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2026
]]>The SCBA elections are scheduled for Oct 29, with the Independent Group, also known as the Asma Jahangir Group, fielding Syed Amjad Ali Shah as its presidential candidate, while the Professional Group, led by Hamid Khan, has nominated Sardar Aman Khan for the slot.
Meanwhile, Mr Safdar has announced the formation of his own group, the Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah Group, and invited lawyers to join it.
He said his group also intended to contest the SCBA elections.
Talking to media persons, Mr Safdar alleged that the law degree of one of the candidates for the SCBA presidency was fake and demanded its verification.
He also called for verification of the degrees of prominent lawyers, including Ahsan Bhoon, a close associate of Federal Law and Justice Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.
Mr Bhoon, a former SCBA president, is currently a member of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan and heads the Independent Group.
Mr Safdar further alleged that some prominent lawyers charged their clients on a “done basis”, a term used for arrangements in which lawyers allegedly demand hefty fees while assuring clients of a 100pc favourable court decision.
He said such practices needed to be stopped and lawyers with dubious credentials should be removed from the legal profession.
Pakistan Bar Council member Shafqat Chohan, who belongs to the Professional Group, endorsed Mr Safdar’s demand, saying those seeking to hold office in the SCBA should possess valid law degrees.
Senior lawyer Muhammad Siddique Awan, a prominent member of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz Lawyers Forum, also called for verification of the degrees of candidates contesting the SCBA elections from both groups.
He said the SCBA had around 5,000 members and suggested that the degrees of all its members should eventually be verified.
Mr Awan pointed out that several lawyers had previously been found to possess invalid or fake degrees.
He also referred to the recent removal of Islamabad High Court judge Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri over an issue concerning the validity of his law degree.
However, Independent Group presidential candidate Syed Amjad Ali Shah described Mr Safdar’s allegations as stemming from a personal grudge.
Mr Shah alleged that Mr Safdar had wanted him to represent a party in a property dispute in Mansehra involving the brother of a former Supreme Court judge. He said he declined to become counsel in the matter because he lived in the same area as Mr Safdar and the judge’s brother and did not want to become involved in a dispute between local parties.
According to Mr Shah, Mr Safdar interpreted his refusal as an act of disobedience and subsequently targeted him.
He said that if Mr Safdar genuinely wanted his law degree verified, he should have adopted the proper legal and institutional procedure instead of making allegations through the media.
Mr Shah also claimed that Mr Safdar’s alleged indifferent behaviour had caused resentment among local notables in Mansehra, adding that, in his view, this was among the factors that contributed to former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s failure to win a National Assembly seat from the district.
Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2026
]]>The waterway is key to the world’s energy supply and is now central to the conflict between Washington and Tehran, which was triggered nearly seven months ago with deadly strikes on Iran.
Iran’s plan called for a cessation of all hostilities in the Middle East, including in Lebanon, according to Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and fulfilling conditions in the ceasefire deal that fell apart months ago.
That agreement, which dissolved during fighting over Hormuz, called for the release of frozen Iranian assets, the lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil and an end to the US naval blockade.
“Our conditions are clear, and any move toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz is contingent upon these conditions being fulfilled. We will not back down from them,” Araghchi said on Sunday, state broadcaster IRIB reported.
“We have never closed the door to diplomacy or negotiations, but at the same time, we have never backed down from our rights.”
But Trump said on Saturday that he rejected the truce deal.
“They want to make a deal where they open the Strait immediately because they’re losing so badly,” he told reporters. “They want to make a deal and I think that’s fine. I like making a deal too.”
Araghchi said on Sunday that the Iranians “saw the first reaction from the US president, but so far, nothing has been conveyed to us by the mediators”.
“We are waiting for the mediators to convey the definitive positions to us, and we will make a decision based on them,” the foreign minister added.
‘Tool for pressure’
Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding in June that aimed to end the war, to reopen the strait and to launch talks on Iran’s nuclear programme.
But the deal broke down shortly afterwards when Iran fired on commercial ships in Hormuz that it accused of deviating from its approved route through the waterway.
Iran requires ships to obtain authorisation before passage, citing security and sovereignty reasons.
Ships that refuse to comply are regularly targeted, while the United States sporadically bombs Iranian coastal areas in retaliation.
At the UN, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan complained that the “international community has been absent” and is failing to live up to the responsibility to keep the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab open.
“The kingdom rejects any party’s use of these vital passages as a tool for pressure, threat, or harm to the interests of states,” he said, stressing the waterways’ importance to global energy security.
His Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, told member states that “Russia, together with other responsible states, stands ready to constructively contribute to stabilising this strategically important region.”
In New York, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, according to his office, and said: “Iran has not walked away from the negotiating table but, given past experiences, it no longer trusts the United States.”
Araghchi said at the UN: “Iran has conveyed to the United States, through Qatar, a concrete seven-day plan. If the necessary conditions are met, the strait can be reopened, and normal maritime passage restored within seven days.”
“The choice now rests with the United States. Iran does not accept coercion, threats or intimidation, and Iran will not surrender its sovereign rights under pressure,” he added.
Hossein Mohebi, a spokesman for Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, was quoted by Tasnim news agency as saying: “We will not cease punishing the US until Iran’s seven conditions are met.”
Mohebi had told AFP in an exclusive interview on Tuesday that ending hostilities in Yemen was also among Tehran’s demands.
]]>There used to be a Jummah sermon in Mirali during 2007, when a Khariji commander Moweya announced in t...
"There used to be a Jummah sermon in Mirali during 2007, when a Khariji commander Moweya announced in the masjid that keeping a boy for a "seksual" purpose by every Mujahid is allowed so that he can perform his Jihad well.He also said that taking 0pium/h@shish is permissible in our Islamic books so that our Mujahid remains fresh all the time, because he has to stay awake constantly.He further added that there is no need to ask for the permission or will of your parents for going to Jihad, as it is beyond them, and if you find your parents creating hurdles in your Jihad, "you know very well what you can do", and Allah Almighty will not question you about it because the sacrifice will be for the sake of your Jihad.The same tune was heard the next week in Jummah sermons across all of Waziristan, followed by South Waziristan, Malakand, and Khyber districts.I remember the Jummah sermons of the Khariji commanders where they were permitting everything for other Kharijis so that they could feel comfortable."
Background
In the summer of 2007, a startling announcement during a Jummah sermon in Mirali, Waziristan, unveiled a deeply concerning ideology propagated by Khariji commanders. Moweya, a self-proclaimed leader, justified the illicit practices among Mujahideen, claiming they were permissible under distorted interpretations of Islam. This marked a significant moment in the region's ongoing struggle against extremist interpretations of faith.
Analysis
The sermon delivered by Moweya was not an isolated event; rather, it sparked a wave of similar rhetoric across Jummah sermons in the Waziristan area. The teachings included disturbing permission for Mujahid to engage in exploitation for supposed religious reasons, as well as advocating the use of narcotics to maintain stamina. Such doctrines aimed to desensitize individuals to ethical boundaries and family obligations, embedding the idea that jihad supersedes all personal considerations. This manipulation of faith has been used to recruit and radicalize youth, presenting a grave challenge to community norms and values.
International Response
The international community has expressed concern regarding the resurgence of extremist ideologies in Pakistan. Organizations focusing on counter-terrorism and global security have highlighted the need for increased awareness and prevention strategies in regions like Waziristan. Additionally, governments worldwide are keenly observing how these ideological shifts can potentially affect broader stability in South Asia and the global effort against terrorism.
Looking Forward
Pakistan's government and civil society must prioritize educational and outreach programs aimed at countering extremist narratives. There is a strong need for community engagement initiatives that promote peace and tolerance, leveraging local leaders to restore faith-based practices that align with true Islamic teachings. By fostering resilience within communities and challenging violence-oriented ideologies, Pakistan can begin to reclaim its record and cultivate a more peaceful future for its youth and the broader society.
“They allegedly searched some patrons and took their cellphones before fleeing the scene in two unidentified motor vehicles,” police said, adding that the incident occurred at around 1930 GMT (12am PKT) on Saturday.
The victims included 13 males and four females, police said.
The motive for the shooting was still unknown, police said, adding that the suspects torched two vehicles before fleeing.
“Police have mobilised a team of detectives and other specialised units to trace and apprehend the suspects,” they said.
In a separate shooting at an entertainment venue in a township outside Cape Town early on Sunday, gunmen killed 10 people and wounded 11 more.
South Africa is awash with legal and illegal firearms, and shootings are common, often fuelled by gang rivalry and competition between informal businesses.
The country of around 62 million people has one of the world’s highest murder rates, with about 60 people killed each day.
In March, soldiers moved into violence hotspots in Johannesburg to support police efforts to tackle rampant crime, described by President Cyril Ramaphosa as one of the biggest threats facing the country.
]]>Polling began at 8am and is expected to conclude at 5pm. Spokesperson for the Election Commission of Pakistan Huda Gohar told Dawn that voters present within the boundaries of the polling station will be allowed to cast their vote past 5pm as well.
The constituency fell vacant after the death of Malik Muhammad Iqbal Channar in August, whose son is now the ruling party candidate.
According to data from the provincial Election Commissioner’s office, a total of 483,143 people are registered in the constituency, including 248,259 men and 234,614 women, with a total of 292 polling stations. At the polling stations, 307 presiding officers and 941 polling officers and assistant presiding officers have been deployed.
A day earlier, the Punjab home department requested the interior ministry for deployment of troops of the Pakistan Army and Rangers (Punjab) in the constituency for smooth, peaceful and secure conduct of the by-election.
Leading up to the election, on September 12, in an armed clash, three persons were injured at Baqirpur in connection with the election campaign of Cheema, who is the son of former PML-Q federal minister Tariq Bashir Cheema.
As per Rescue 1122 sources, during Cheema’s election rally, the clash occurred between the supporters of the rival candidates, and some of them resorted to firing, resulting in injuries to three people.
]]>Afghan Taliban Border Posts Destroyed by Pakistani Artillery in Nangarhar & PaktiaHeavy clas...
"Afghan Taliban Border Posts Destroyed by Pakistani Artillery in Nangarhar & PaktiaHeavy clashes have been reported along AfghanistanPakistan border, with Pakistani artillery targeting Afghan Taliban positions in Nangarhar and Paktia. https://t.co/SnsCfVMefZ"
Background
In recent days, heavy clashes have erupted along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, particularly in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Paktia. Reports indicate that Pakistani artillery has targeted positions held by the Afghan Taliban, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Analysis
The conflict is rooted in a complex history of border disputes and militant activity in the region. Pakistan has long accused the Afghan Taliban of using Afghan territory to launch attacks against its forces. The recent artillery strikes are seen as a decisive move by Pakistan to assert control and deter militant incursions. While these actions may escalate tensions, many analysts believe that they underscore Pakistan's commitment to maintaining its territorial integrity and regional stability.
International Response
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation, urging both nations to exercise restraint. Various human rights organizations have expressed concern over the potential for civilian casualties and the broader implications for peace in Afghanistan. Diplomatic efforts are being called upon to address the underlying issues that fuel the conflict, with emphasis on dialogue and cooperative security measures.
Looking Forward
As the situation develops, the hope remains that both Pakistan and Afghanistan can engage in meaningful discussions to de-escalate tensions and foster a more stable relationship. Collaborative efforts between the two nations are essential for addressing common security challenges and promoting economic development in border regions. A constructive approach may pave the way for a more peaceful coexistence in the future.
Hello @metpoliceuk @lpsmediaoffice @TerrorismPolice, why are you all sleeping?One of the most import...
"Hello @metpoliceuk @lpsmediaoffice @TerrorismPolice, why are you all sleeping?One of the most important terrorist facilitators and terror plotters is living on your soil in the guise of an asylum seeker, and you will only wake up when he blows up a bomb in a random shopping mall or blows his dirty ass up among the citizens of the London."
Background
In light of recent social media posts, attention has been drawn to the presence of a suspected terrorist facilitator reportedly living in London as an asylum seeker. This revelation has sparked significant concern regarding the potential threat posed not only to local citizens but to broader international security. With the increasing challenges posed by radicalization and terrorism around the globe, it is imperative to scrutinize and assess the conditions that allow such individuals to thrive.
Analysis
The individual in question has been identified as having ties to known terror networks. The issue is not just about one person; it stems from a larger concern about how cities like London handle asylum seekers who may carry dubious credentials. While the majority of asylum seekers are fleeing violence and persecution, the presence of extremists within this group poses risks that law enforcement agencies need to proactively address.
In the context of proactive security measures, there is a pressing need for robust vetting mechanisms and intelligence-sharing protocols among agencies. Communities cannot remain passive, and the call for vigilance among law enforcement is both expected and necessary.
International Response
Responses from international law enforcement agencies have been varied. In some countries, stronger border control measures have been implemented, and comprehensive databases of known offenders have been established. Both the Metropolitan Police and the National Counter Terrorism Policing are expected to increase awareness and monitoring, ensuring that they remain ahead of potential threats without infringing on the rights of those seeking refuge.
Many concerned citizens are advocating for better transparency within governmental procedures regarding asylum claims, demanding that prompt action be taken when concerning individuals are identified. Its essential that national focus does not wane, particularly as terrorism remains a pervasive global challenge.
Looking Forward
Moving forward, it is important for the UK to strike a careful balance between ensuring national security and upholding humanitarian obligations. Initiatives to integrate refugees positively into society must continue while establishing clear protocols for monitoring those who may pose threats.
Engaging communities in understanding the signs of radicalization and offering avenues for reporting suspicious activity can serve as a vital tool in preventing violent extremism. Authorities must work transparently with the public to foster trust, as society's cooperation is pivotal for thwarting potential threats.
The pandas’ transfer had already been agreed, but the departure was announced on Thursday during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington.
The black and white mammals are immensely popular around the world, and China loans them out as part of a “panda diplomacy” programme to foster foreign ties.
Ping Ping and Fu Shuang departed from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport on a chartered flight at around 3:00 am on Sunday (12am PKT on Saturday), state news agency Xinhua reported.
Steamed corn buns, bamboo shoots and carrots have been prepared to keep the pandas nourished during their 15-hour flight, Chinese state-run media outlet the Global Times reported.
The Boeing 777 operated by FedEx was the top-tracked aircraft on aviation information platform FlightRadar24 as it neared Alaska, roughly halfway into its journey.
The pandas are headed to a zoo in Atlanta, Georgia, where they will be spending the next 10 years.
A farewell ceremony was held for the pair before their departure by the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Experienced keepers were dispatched by the US side to accompany the duo on their flight, the Global Times reported.
In preparation for their arrival, Zoo Atlanta has renovated its panda facilities and assembled a team of animal caretakers.
It has also ensured a stable and long-term supply of bamboo, grown locally in Atlanta, which has a climate that is very similar to Chengdu.
Zoo Atlanta previously hosted pandas on loan from China for a quarter of a century starting in 1999, but it has not had any since 2024.
Both the expected arrivals were born in 2020. Ping Ping, a male, is now six years old, while Fu Shuang, a female, will turn six next month.
Pandas in captivity typically live for around 30 years.
The furry creatures have been sent across the globe for decades as soft-power ambassadors of Beijing’s diplomatic goodwill.
In 1972, China gifted a pair of pandas to Washington, following US President Richard Nixon’s historic visit.
Beijing recalled two of its pandas from Japan early this year, following a diplomatic spat that began when Japan’s prime minister hinted that Tokyo could intervene militarily in the event of any attack on Taiwan.
]]>According to the reports available with Dawn, the patients, including three women, who had been receiving dialysis at the hospital tested positive for the deadly virus after initial diagnosis.
The hospital administration has referred them to the Nishtar Hospital Multan for further medical evaluation and treatment and they are currently under treatment there.
The Mian Channu hospital officials told the media that more than 60 patients were receiving dialysis at the facility and HIV could not be transmitted through the dialysis process. They said that they were assessing the situation.
Infected patients, including three women, sent to Multan’s Nishtar Hospital
Sources, however, said that more dialysis patients might also have tested positive but the officials did not confirm more cases.
In recent years, several HIV cases were reported in the healthcare facilities in Punjab.
In November 2024, around 30 kidney patients at the Nishtar Hospital were reported to have contracted HIV during dialysis, while one patient died after developing complications. A Punjab government fact-finding committee subsequently confirmed an HIV/AIDS outbreak in the hospital’s nephrology unit and identified violations of dialysis guidelines and standard operating procedures.
A scientific study published in 2026, involving researchers from the Aga Khan University and the Punjab AIDS Control Programme, found that the Multan dialysis cases were closely linked and provided evidence that the infections originated within the healthcare setting. The Punjab government ordered proceedings under the PEEDA Act against senior officials and medical staff over alleged negligence and mismanagement related to the outbreak in Nishtar Hospital Multan in January 2025.
Another major HIV-related crisis had emerged in Taunsa where 106 children tested HIV positive and they were registered with the AIDS Control Programme in March 2025. The government had established a screening and treatment centre at the THQ hospital and ordered action against senior local health officials. Later, a joint mission involving WHO, Unicef, UNAIDS and other partners carried out door-to-door screening of around 50,000 people in the affected area. It also said auto-disable syringes were supplied to government hospitals and that hundreds of clinics allegedly being run by quacks were sealed.
The Punjab AIDS Control Programme says it provides free HIV testing, counselling, treatment, diagnostic services and follow-up care and treatment centres were established in districts, including Lahore, Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan, and more than 14,000 patients were receiving free treatment.
At the federal level, the National AIDS Control Programme says 84,421 HIV cases were registered in Pakistan by December 2025, of whom 60,785 were receiving antiretroviral therapy at 98 centres.
Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2026
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