The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) in Pakistan has announced that passport collection counters will be open on Saturdays for two months, operating from 8 AM to 4 PM. This change aims to assist those unable to visit during regular hours. Additionally, unclaimed passports will be destroyed after six months, and the DGIP is also transitioning to e-passports to combat fraud.
Recent statements by Israel’s defense minister reveal an intention to displace Palestinians from Gaza, echoing a pattern of ethnic cleansing. Amidst ongoing violence and forced removals in both Gaza and the West Bank, the international community’s response, particularly from the United States, is crucial in opposing these actions.
Akhtar Abbas Nashad of the PPP has won the GBA-09 Skardu-III by-election with a margin of 455 votes over independent candidate Wazir Mohammad Saleem. The election followed the disqualification of his predecessor, Fida Muhammad Nashad. A local holiday was declared to facilitate voting, and security was tightly managed to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has declared power devolution in Pakistan as inevitable and criticized the PPP for inconsistent positions on new provinces. He highlighted the need for constitutional integrity and reform of the current power structure. The PPP’s shifting stance has sparked debate, with calls for clarity from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Constitutional amendments and political consensus are necessary for any changes.
Fresh clashes in Yemen between government forces and Houthi rebels have resulted in over 60 fatalities, including civilians, amid escalating tensions and strategic fighting for control of key regions. The situation follows the collapse of a ceasefire and highlights the conflict’s broader implications for Middle Eastern stability.
Following a fatal avalanche on Broad Peak, Gilgit-Baltistan’s Chief Minister has formed a committee to review trekking regulations. The committee will focus on improving safety protocols and addressing administrative lapses in rescue operations. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of mountaineers while supporting the region’s tourism sector.
Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, the Emir of Jamaat-i-Islami, has warned of a nationwide wheel-jam strike unless the government swiftly addresses public demands for economic relief. Following recent protests, JI plans to negotiate with the government while continuing demonstrations across the country. Rehman criticized the current administration’s handling of the economy and governance issues, emphasizing the need for structural changes and local reforms.
Karachi police have detained two suspects, Ibrahim Fahad and Waqar, for the alleged assault and abduction of a young man in DHA Phase 8, with a third suspect absconding. The incident, tied to a dispute involving a girl, led to a police report being filed by the victim, Syed Ali Jafri, who claims he was threatened and assaulted before being forced to pay the attackers.
A suspect in an acid attack on a woman in Karachi has been arrested in Punjab. The victim, aged 35, suffered serious burns and is receiving treatment. Police are coordinating to bring the suspect back to Karachi for legal proceedings.
The Inter Board Coordination Commission (IBCC) has announced relaxed equivalence criteria for foreign board students and introduced several reforms aimed at improving Pakistan’s examination system. Notable changes include the addition of more institutions for equivalence recognition and enhanced support for top students.
