Acting on intelligence about their presence in the area, security forces moved to intercept the terrorists. The operation foiled a planned attack on nearby police stations and banks, ISPR said.

A heavy exchange of fire ensued as forces blocked the militants’ movement. Fourteen Indian-backed terrorists were killed, and several others were wounded. Four vehicles and explosives used by the group were also destroyed.

Lance Havildar Abbas embraced martyrdom during the operation while fighting with valour, ISPR said.

A search operation is underway in the area to apprehend any remaining terrorists.

President, interior minister commend security forces

President Asif Ali Zardari and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi have praised the security forces for the successful operation in Basima, calling it a significant achievement for national security.

In a statement, President Zardari said foiling the terrorists’ designs was clear proof of state institutions’ capability. “Actions taken against anti-state elements are a guarantee of national security,” he said.

Interior Minister Naqvi also lauded the forces, saying the elimination of the terrorists reflected the professional competence of the security agencies.

He said the timely and effective operation had thwarted their malicious aims and would help consolidate peace and stability in the country.

 “Time, date and venue will be shared in due course,” the government said.

Earlier, Business Recorder reported that the government is likely to postpone the presentation of the 2026–27 federal budget from June 10 to June 12, with a final decision on the proposed change expected in a day or two.

Speaking to the media at Parliament House on Monday, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said that several key budget-related matters are yet to be finalised, prompting discussions on revising the budget presentation schedule.

He said discussions were still underway and that limited time, coupled with the approaching month of Muharram, had complicated the process. “Many aspects of the budget are still being finalised,” he said, adding that no final decision had yet been taken on whether the presentation date would be changed.

Chairing a high-level review meeting, the prime minister instructed officials to ensure complete transparency throughout the privatisation process and put in place a robust regulatory framework immediately after the transition of DISCOs to private ownership.

During a briefing on progress, officials informed the meeting that Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) would be privatised in the first phase. Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the transactions have already been published in national and international newspapers.

The meeting was told that the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation has approved the transaction structure for the sale of the three power distribution companies.

Officials further informed the prime minister that international roadshows will begin this month to attract potential investors from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and China.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb and Sardar Awais Leghari, Adviser to the Prime Minister Muhammad Ali, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior government officials.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, the regional security environment, and avenues for enhanced bilateral defence and security cooperation were discussed. Both dignitaries expressed satisfaction over the longstanding brotherly relations between Pakistan and Bahrain and underscored the importance of further strengthening military-to-military collaboration.

Earlier, the Commander Bahrain National Guard also called on Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of the Air Staff separately.

At Naval Headquarters, the meeting focused on bilateral defence collaboration and regional security dynamics. The Commander of the Bahrain National Guard commended Pakistan Navy’s role in advancing cooperative maritime security across the region and expressed appreciation for its role as a regional maritime security stabiliser.

During the meeting at Air Headquarters, the Chief of the Air Staff highlighted Pakistan Air Force’s modernisation efforts, including capability enhancement, infrastructure development, indigenisation, and advanced training reforms.

Discussions focused on emerging defence technologies, including drones, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, advanced sensors, and digital innovation, as well as evolving air defence challenges and integrated defence architectures.

The Bahraini commander appreciated the professionalism, operational readiness, and contributions of Pakistan’s Armed Forces towards regional peace and stability, and praised modernisation initiatives and indigenous capabilities, expressing interest in further cooperation in training, emerging technologies, and capacity-building initiatives.

The visit reflects the defence partnership between Pakistan and Bahrain and is expected to further advance bilateral military cooperation.

General Heckel was presented with a guard of honour by a contingent of the armed forces upon his arrival at GHQ.

The meeting covered matters of mutual interest, regional security, defence cooperation and ways to strengthen bilateral military relations.

Both sides emphasised the importance of enhancing professional ties, training cooperation and institutional-level engagement between the two armed forces.

Field Marshal Munir said Pakistan attaches special importance to its long-standing and cordial relations with Lebanon and reaffirmed its commitment to expanding defence collaboration.

General Heckel praised the professionalism and operational capabilities of the Pakistan Armed Forces and acknowledged their role in regional stability and international peacekeeping missions.

ISPR said the visit reflects a shared commitment to strengthening military cooperation and deepening ties between the two countries.

Exercising his right of reply at a UN Security Council discussion on Afghanistan, Pakistani Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad said the strikes, including those conducted in March, hit drone storage facilities, technical support infrastructure, and ammunition depots.

“Those strikes were precise, deliberate, and professional,” he said, adding that no hospital, drug rehabilitation centre, or civilian facility was targeted.

India’s statement was delivered by Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, while Naseer Ahmad Faiq — an appointee of the former Afghan government, as the UN has not recognised the Taliban — spoke for Afghanistan.

Ambassador Asim Ahmad dismissed Faiq, saying he “does not represent anyone but himself.”

The Indian envoy had highlighted New Delhi’s humanitarian and capacity-building work in Afghanistan and noted that the Pakistani strikes were carried out during Ramazan.

In response, Ambassador Asim Ahmad accused India of using development and humanitarian assistance as cover to destabilise Pakistan through terrorist proxies, including Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).

He said the international community’s key expectations of the Taliban regime — now in its fifth year — included inclusive governance, human rights, women’s and girls’ rights, and a commitment that Afghan soil would not be used for terrorism. He noted that the Security Council discussion had raised concerns over the Taliban’s non-compliance with those pledges.

Ambassador Asim said it was “amusing” to hear of India’s “newfound love for the Taliban,” calling the shift a reaction to Pakistan’s successful counterterrorism operations against camps inside Afghanistan backed by New Delhi.

“Not once did the Indian envoy condemn the TTP or the BLA — Fitna al Hindustan — who have been targeting innocent Pakistanis. We are not surprised at all,” he said.

“It must be discomforting for India to see its terrorist infrastructure being dismantled and destroyed in Afghanistan by Pakistan’s valiant security forces, who will continue to do whatever is necessary for our self-defence.”

India’s invocation of international law was “laughable,” he said. “It is, in fact, a serial violator of international law.”

The envoy said India had been in illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir for decades, committing what he described as grave and systematic human rights violations corroborated by the international community.

“While we were talking of violations of human rights, of women’s rights and girls’ rights in Afghanistan, how can we be quiet about violations — these grave, persistent, systematic violations of human rights which have been reported and corroborated by the international community.”

He also accused India of persecuting minorities — including Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs — and said the country’s national media was under the control of the BJP government.

“And it is a state sponsor of terrorism — not just in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir or in Pakistan using the Afghan soil, but it is openly aiding, abetting and financing terrorism elsewhere,” he said.

“Extraterritorial assassinations — the international community is now well aware of it in North America, in Canada and the US.”

Ambassador Asim Ahmad further said India was in serious breach of UN Security Council resolutions on Kashmir and had violated the Indus Waters Treaty by declaring it in abeyance “without any reason, justification, and in complete breach of the treaty’s provisions and international law.”

On India’s outreach to Afghan cricketers, he said New Delhi had a poor record of promoting sportsmanship — citing the refusal of Indian players and officials to shake hands, as seen during the Asian Cup.

Pakistan, he concluded, was fully aware of India’s “motives and evil designs” and would not allow it to threaten its national security.

“We have stopped them before, and we will do it again, and we will do it always.”

This was disclosed by Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, while delivering a keynote address at Webinar-1, titled “Pakistan-Russia Bilateral Relationship at the cusp of shifting global order,” highlighting a highly positive and pragmatic trajectory in bilateral relations over the past two decades.

A key focus of the address was regional connectivity, with Pakistan signalling its intent to join the INSTC, read an official statement.

The INSTC is a 7,200-kilometre multimodal transit network combining ship, rail, and road routes designed to move freight between India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Northern Europe.

During the webinar, Leghari welcomed the statement by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk regarding connecting the INSTC with Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, which would bridge a crucial link in China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Addressing the structural transformations in global politics, the minister noted that residual distrust from the Soviet era has faded, elevating the partnership from an “unfriendly country” to a “trusted friend” across sectors, including trade, energy, defence, and technology.

This diplomatic momentum is driven by high-level leadership, underscored by four recent meetings between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin, he said.

As Co-Chairman of the Russia-Pakistan Intergovernmental Commission (IGC), the minister emphasised regular engagements with his counterpart, Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev, describing the IGC as the foundation of their multi-faceted ties.

Bilateral cooperation has expanded through structured frameworks, including consultations on security, strategic stability, and counter-terrorism, alongside mutual alignment at the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to advocate for an inclusive, multipolar international order, he said.

Leghari also highlighted that Russian leadership has praised Pakistan’s recent diplomatic role in mitigating conflicts between Iran and the United States, further validating President Putin’s acknowledgement of Pakistan as a genuine global stakeholder.

To unlock the substantial potential for bilateral trade and address structural hurdles like payment mechanisms, both nations have agreed to sign the Program of Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and Pakistan for the Period until 2030, he said.

Furthermore, the recent signing of the long-pending Russia-Pakistan Readmission Agreement in Bishkek will ease visa regimes, facilitating business travel and people-to-people exchanges.

Concluding his remarks, Leghari reiterated that Pakistan-Russia relations are a vital component of broader Eurasian economic integration and regional stability.

Convened by the AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy under the leadership of Sheikh Yousef Khalawi and held with the support of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkiye, the summit brought together an influential gathering of policymakers, regulators, central bank governors, investors, scholars and business leaders from across the world.

The summit featured participation from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, central bank governors, senior policymakers and economic leaders from Turkiye, Malaysia, Palestine and other key markets, reflecting the growing international importance of the forum as a platform for shaping conversations around the future of economic development.

Against this backdrop, Sidra Iqbal led a featured discussion titled “Raising the Quality of Capital: From Follower Counts to Financial Value,” examining how trust, credibility, expertise, communities and digital influence are increasingly being recognised as strategic forms of capital in a digitally connected economy.

The session explored the growing relevance of the creator economy and trust economy and considered how these developments intersect with broader conversations around ethical finance, stewardship, sustainable development and long-term value creation.

The inclusion of a discussion on digital influence, trust and creator-led value creation alongside conversations on finance, capital markets and economic development reflected a growing recognition that future economies will increasingly be shaped by both financial and intangible forms of capital.

Speaking during the discussion, Sidra Iqbal noted that some of the most valuable assets being created today do not exist on traditional balance sheets but are built through trust, credibility, expertise and communities.

She argued that future models of economic value will require a broader understanding of capital — one that incorporates not only financial assets, but also the relationships, influence and trust that drive innovation, engagement and long-term growth.

As host of Aaj News’ flagship daytime television show, Aaj Pakistan, Sidra Iqbal has spent the last seven years facilitating conversations on economic development, governance, leadership and future-facing trends.

Her participation also highlighted Pakistan’s contribution to emerging global conversations on the future of capital and economic development, while underscoring the increasing importance of trust and digital value creation in shaping the next generation of economic opportunity.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by federal ministers, met President Asif Ali Zardari at the presidency, where both sides resolved outstanding budget differences.

Sources said technical committees would continue consultations on certain remaining points.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Law Minister Azam Nazir, the finance minister and political adviser Rana Sanaullah.

PPP was represented by Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Senator Sherry Rehman, Naveed Qamar, Saleem Mandviwala and Ahad Cheema, among others. AJK Prime Minister Faisal Rathore and MNA Raja Pervez Ashraf also attended.

Discussions covered national security, the economy, the budget, Gilgit-Baltistan elections, the situation in Azad Kashmir, law and order and other matters of national importance.

President Zardari stressed that the budget should prioritise public welfare, provincial rights and economic stability. Interior Minister Naqvi briefed the president on his recent visit to Iran and diplomatic contacts.

The budget presentation — previously scheduled for June 10 — was postponed following high-level consultations.

The finance ministry is expected to announce a new date later in the evening.

Bilawal meets Shehbaz

Earlier, PM Shehbaz met Bilawal Bhutto at the PM House, where the two held detailed talks on the political and administrative situation in Azad Kashmir.

Bilawal briefed the prime minister on public sentiment and ground realities in the territory.

The government made clear that peace, stability and rule of law were non-negotiable, and that a firm policy on maintaining order would continue.

Bilawal urged that all issues be resolved through political dialogue and parliamentary means.

On a lighter note, PM Shehbaz congratulated President Zardari on PPP’s victory in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections, remarking with a smile that the young Bilawal had run a better campaign than his own party. President Zardari smiled back and replied: “After all, whose son is he!”

The reduction was approved following government consent and relates to the quarterly adjustment for the January-March 2026 period, the notification said.

The lower tariff will be applicable for three months, from June through August 2026, and will be reflected in electricity bills during that period.

According to the notification, the quarterly adjustment will apply to electricity consumers nationwide and is expected to provide relief amounting to Rs67.173 billion.

The regulator said the reduction was made under the quarterly adjustment mechanism covering the January-March 2026 period.

According to sources, the alliance is likely to follow a PDM-style arrangement, with PPP taking the chief minister’s slot and PML-N getting the governorship. Ministries would be divided on a 60/40 formula in PPP’s favour.

In unofficial and provisional results from 21 of the 24 assembly seats declared so far, PPP leads with nine seats, followed by independent candidates on seven, PML-N on four and Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen on one. Results from three constituencies are still awaited.

The coalition talks come after a high-level meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Monday, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari discussed the GB election results, the situation in Azad Kashmir and matters of national importance.

The meeting was attended by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and political adviser Rana Sanaullah, along with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and other senior leaders.

PM Shehbaz congratulated President Zardari on PPP’s victory, smiling as he remarked that the young Bilawal had run a better campaign than his own party. Zardari smiled back and replied: “After all, whose son is he!”

The prime minister had earlier congratulated the people of Gilgit-Baltistan on holding successful, peaceful and transparent elections, and singled out PPP for special mention on emerging as the largest party.

Weather officials said the presence of sea breezes could make conditions feel significantly hotter, with the perceived temperature expected to be 8°C to 10°C higher than the actual reading.

On Tuesday, the city’s maximum temperature was recorded at 36.5°C. However, humidity levels reached 62%, pushing the heat index to around 48°C and intensifying discomfort for residents.

The PMD said northwesterly winds continued to blow across the city at speeds ranging between 22 and 25 kilometres per hour.

Health experts have urged citizens, particularly children, women, the elderly and people with underlying health conditions, to take extra precautions during the hot spell.

Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight between 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. and to maintain adequate hydration and electrolyte intake to prevent heat-related illnesses.

In a statement on X, PM Shehbaz said the latest surge in violence underscored the devastating consequences that could follow if hostilities intensified.

“As we work earnestly and painstakingly, together with our brothers and partners, to find a peaceful diplomatic solution to the conflict, and especially when the final objective is just about to be achieved, we sincerely urge all sides to exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance,” he said.

Pakistan and its regional partners remained committed to a diplomatic resolution, he added, urging all parties to choose dialogue over confrontation.

“Let us continue to remain on the path of peace and diplomacy, which have bright prospects of success, instead of violence and destruction,” he said.

The statement follows the first exchange of fire between Iran and Israel since the Pakistan-brokered ceasefire took hold in April, despite calls for restraint from US President Donald Trump.

The flare-up was triggered after Israel struck Beirut’s southern suburbs on Saturday, prompting Iranian retaliation. Israel carried out the Beirut strike despite a US-announced truce plan the previous week.

Lebanon’s ceasefire has remained fragile, with hostilities continuing amid Israeli military operations, displacement orders and the seizure of the historic Beaufort Castle.

Later on Monday, Iran and Israel said they had halted attacks on each other ​following an appeal from Trump that they immediately “stop ‘shooting’”, though Tehran said it would resume strikes if Israel continued to hit Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Aisha Fatima, a Grade 11 student, had disappeared four days ago. Her family filed a missing persons report at Satellite Town police station shortly after.

She was brought unconscious to a private hospital by unidentified men who fled the scene, according to police sources.

Due to her critical condition, she was transferred to District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital Jhang, where she later died during treatment.

CCTV footage obtained during the investigation showed the victim being brought to the private hospital in a critical state.

Based on the footage and other evidence, police arrested three suspects — identified as Haseeb, Amish, and Hassan — and seized the vehicle used in the incident. A manhunt is underway for a fourth suspect, Khalil.

Police said initial evidence and circumstances suggest the possibility of gang rape, but a final determination will be made after medical, forensic, and other investigative reports are received.

The victim’s father has appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for justice.

In a congratulatory statement, the prime minister praised the successful, peaceful and transparent conduct of the elections and extended his congratulations to the people of GB for their active participation in the democratic process.

Expressing satisfaction over the outcome, PM Shehbaz said the PPP had emerged as the majority political force in the elections and deserved recognition for its performance.

He congratulated President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on the party’s success.

According to unofficial and non-final results from the 24-member Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, the PPP has secured nine seats, placing it ahead of its rivals.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has won four seats, Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) one seat, while seven independent candidates have also emerged victorious.

The prime minister commended the overall political atmosphere in Gilgit-Baltistan, saying peaceful elections and vibrant political activity reflect the strength of democracy. He also praised the Election Commission for ensuring a transparent and impartial electoral process.

PM Shehbaz congratulated not only the PPP but also successful candidates from PML-N and all other parties and independent groups, stressing the importance of democratic continuity and political inclusiveness.

He lauded the enthusiasm shown by voters, saying the people of Gilgit-Baltistan strengthened democracy through the exercise of their right to vote.

The prime minister also acknowledged the role of security forces, police and law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and ensuring public safety during the elections, commending election personnel for their efforts in facilitating a smooth polling process.

The statement was widely seen as a message of support for democratic continuity and political stability, with the prime minister encouraging all successful candidates regardless of party affiliation.

In a statement, the Foreign Office said comments made by some members of the diaspora in the United Kingdom concerning AJK were inappropriate and advised them to contribute positively to the societies in which they reside rather than meddling in the affairs of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.

The FO also criticised remarks and questions raised by some British Members of Parliament, saying they reflected a lack of understanding of the historical and constitutional context of the issue.

“For those still living in colonial times, it bears reiterating that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic republic that firmly believes in non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and expects the same from others,” the statement said.

The FO reiterated that the governments of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir respect citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and democratic participation. However, it stressed that violence, vandalism, destruction of public property and attacks resulting in the deaths of civilians or law enforcement personnel could not be tolerated.

The statement came after clashes between law enforcement agencies and protesters linked to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Rawalakot left four police personnel dead, including a sub-inspector.

Rawalakot Commissioner Sardar Waheed said 13 police personnel sustained bullet injuries during the clashes. All of the injured belonged to the Azad Kashmir Police.

He said civilians were also injured during the unrest, reportedly due to shelling, but added that the situation had since stabilised and clashes had ceased.

The tensions escalated after authorities declared the JAAC a banned organisation and launched a crackdown against its leadership. Among those arrested were prominent committee leaders Anjum Zaman and Raja Sohaib Javed.

The group had called for a long march and protest on June 9, prompting authorities to impose Section 144 in Muzaffarabad, suspend internet services and deploy Rangers and Frontier Corps personnel at key government installations, including the High Court, Legislative Assembly and Presidency.

The committee’s primary demand is the abolition of 12 seats reserved in the AJK Legislative Assembly for refugees residing in Pakistan.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, hearing a presidential reference, ruled that any move to abolish the 12 refugee seats would require an amendment to Section 33 of the constitution. The court said such a decision could only be taken by the newly elected assembly following elections scheduled for July 27.

The court observed that constitutional amendments must be pursued through elected institutions rather than street protests and emphasised that political disagreements could not obstruct the electoral process.

It further stated that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, demonstrations should not disrupt public life or infringe upon the rights of other citizens.

Separately, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the government had already implemented most provisions of an agreement reached with the JAAC last year, including subsidised electricity and flour for residents of Azad Kashmir.

He urged all stakeholders to pursue dialogue, saying violence could not provide a solution to political disputes.

The FO also called on the British government to discourage support for proscribed organisations and encourage respect for democratic institutions, judicial decisions and the rule of law in accordance with the constitutions of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.

According to sources, the FBR has prepared a plan to identify and pursue individuals who are not filing tax returns despite appearing financially well-off through their social media activity.

The notices will require recipients to provide information regarding their income, assets, properties and sources of funds. The aim is to determine whether their declared lifestyle matches their tax records.

Sources said the FBR has collected extensive data on individuals showcasing wealth on social media, with assistance from NADRA in identifying and obtaining information about them.

Officials said that in the first phase, affected individuals will be allowed to regularise their tax affairs and submit tax returns.

The individuals concerned will be directed to file their tax returns and provide financial details to the FBR by September 30.

According to the report, legal action may be taken against those who fail to submit returns within the specified period or do not provide satisfactory responses.

The move is part of the FBR’s efforts to expand the tax base and bring financially stable individuals into the tax system who are not currently reflected in tax records.

The meeting, held at the headquarters of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, follows Naqvi’s arrival in Tehran on Saturday, where he also met with Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, according to Iranian media.

During the meeting, Naqvi delivered a special letter from Field Marshal Asim Munir for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

Naqvi and Araghchi also discussed the ongoing US-Iran diplomatic process, exploring avenues to facilitate progress in negotiations.

Speaking after the discussions, Naqvi emphasised the close ties between Pakistan and Iran.

“Iran and Pakistan share fraternal relations, and when a problem arises for one brother, the other brother feels it too. We hope these crises will end soon through the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir,” he said.

Naqvi expressed gratitude to senior Iranian officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Araghchi, noting hopes for a positive outcome.

He also highlighted the purpose of his visit, revealing that he had delivered a special letter from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir to Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei.

“I believe this message is highly important. I hope everything goes well and concludes successfully,” Naqvi added.

The trip underscores Pakistan’s active role in mediating between Iran and the United States amid ongoing regional tensions.

The suspect, identified as Muhammad Asif Baloch, was rushed to a private hospital in critical condition after shooting himself in the head. His wife and four children, aged between four and nine, were killed at the scene.

Police cordoned off the area, collected evidence and moved the bodies to hospital for post-mortem examination. Authorities said the incident appeared to stem from a domestic dispute, though investigations were ongoing.

The case took a significant turn when a video recorded by Asif days before the incident came to light. In it, he named several senior government officials, saying they had been harassing and threatening him and had made his life unbearable.

He appealed directly to the prime minister and chief minister to watch the video and ensure justice.

Acting on the video and on the directions of the Balochistan chief minister, police detained multiple officials for questioning. Those taken into custody include Under Secretary Aftab Jabal, Director Industries Iqbal Sarbarah and Saeed Mengal.

Investigators are examining why the named officials were allegedly pressuring Asif and what role, if any, their conduct played in the events leading up to the killings.

The incident has left residents of Wahdat Colony in shock.

The price per tola dropped Rs3,094 to Rs452,222, while 10-gram gold fell Rs2,785 to Rs386,987, according to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association.

Globally, gold declined $30 to $4,297 per ounce, inclusive of a $20 premium.

The drop follows a steeper fall on Saturday, when the per-tola price shed Rs12,489 to close at Rs455,327.

Silver also edged down Rs94 to Rs7,173 per tola.

The case involves charges of reckless and negligent driving, interference with government work, and assaulting a public servant.

According to the FIR, Nadeem Mubarak was signalled to stop his luxury vehicle, which had an “Applied For” registration plate. However, the driver drove onto a one-way street.

The case has been registered under sections 279, 186, and 189 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

Traffic authorities in Lahore are continuing a strict crackdown on traffic violations across the city.

Measures are being enforced against vehicles without number plates, those with “Applied For” plates, and non-standard registration plates.

Officials emphasised that no leniency will be shown to those violating traffic laws.

CM Afridi said a completed bus terminal in the province was being held up by a pending NOC from the National Highway Authority, that Chinese engineers had not been granted NOCs to begin work on a completed dam project in Swat, and that KP, — which produces more than 500 MMCFD of gas — was being denied its rightful share while consuming only 150 MMCFD.

He said the merged districts’ share in the NFC Award had been withheld unconstitutionally for eight years, and that development funds under the Annual Improvement Programme (AIP) had been cut from Rs37 billion to Rs27 billion. The AIP budget for merged districts had similarly been reduced from Rs66 billion to Rs56 billion.

CM Afridi also said that if Punjab would not supply wheat to KP despite constitutional obligations under Articles 151 and 158, those articles should simply be removed from the constitution.

The chief minister stressed that budget decisions of significance required prior consultation with and approval from incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, adding that all political parties consult their leadership before major decisions — a point directed at the federal team amid ongoing negotiations over KP’s participation in national forums.

Ahsan Iqbal, after hearing out the province’s grievances, gave an assurance that the bus terminal NOC would be issued within 24 hours and that all outstanding concerns would be raised with the prime minister and relevant institutions.

According to unofficial and unconfirmed results so far, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has won four seats, while an independent candidate has secured one.

A total of 396 candidates contested elections in 24 constituencies of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.

Complete results have been received from five constituencies.

In GBA-4 Nagar-1, PPP candidate Muhammad Ali Akhtar won with 7,670 votes, defeating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s Muhammad Ayub, who secured 6,566 votes, according to unofficial results from all 53 polling stations.

In GBA-7 Skardu-1, PPP’s Syed Tauqeer Mehdi was declared successful with 4,337 votes, ahead of Utsharq Pakistan Party’s Raja Jalal Hussain Khan, who received 3,891 votes, according to unofficial results from all 31 polling stations.

In GBA-9 Skardu-3, PPP candidate Fida Muhammad Nashad won with 6,270 votes, narrowly defeating independent candidate Wazir Muhammad Saleem, who secured 6,240 votes, according to unofficial results from all 54 polling stations.

In GBA-10 Skardu-4, PPP’s Raja Nasir Abdullah won with 5,680 votes, while Pakistan Stability Party candidate Khan Wazir finished second with 3,409 votes, according to unofficial results from all 51 polling stations.

In GBA-24 Ghanche-3, independent candidate Dr. Asad Shafiq won with 7,175 votes, ahead of PPP’s Muhammad Ismail, who secured 5,195 votes, according to unofficial results from all 46 polling stations.

Partial results from other constituencies showed PPP’s Amjad Hussain leading in GBA-1 Gilgit-1 with 3,600 votes after results from 28 of 80 polling stations, while Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Muhammad Shafiquddin had 2,300 votes.

In GBA-2 Gilgit-2, PML-N’s Hafeez-ur-Rehman was leading with 4,129 votes after results from 27 of 91 polling stations, followed by PPP’s Jamil Ahmed with 2,695 votes.

In GBA-3 Gilgit-3, PML-N’s Muhammad Iqbal led with 5,000 votes after results from 42 of 82 polling stations, while independent candidate Syed Sohail Abbas had 3,867 votes.

In GBA-5 Nagar-2, independent candidate Jahangir Shah was leading with 814 votes after results from 11 of 32 polling stations, ahead of PML-N’s Javed Ali Manwa with 629 votes.

In GBA-6 Hunza, independent candidate Neknam Karim led with 5,612 votes after results from 77 of 88 polling stations, while PPP’s Imtiaz-ul-Haq had 4,540 votes.

In GBA-8 Skardu-2, PPP’s Syed Muhammad Ali Shah was leading with 6,190 votes after results from 37 of 70 polling stations, followed by Majlis-e-Wahdat Muslimeen Pakistan’s Muhammad Kazim with 5,978 votes.

In GBA-11 Kharmang, PPP candidate Iqbal Hassan led with 5,315 votes after results from 40 of 51 polling stations, while PML-N candidate Mohsin Rizvi had 4,220 votes.

In GBA-12 Shigar, PPP’s Imran Nadeem was leading with 6,367 votes after results from 35 of 71 polling stations, ahead of Islami Tehreek’s Raja Azam Khan with 3,679 votes.

In GBA-13 Astore-1, PML-N’s Rana Farman Ali was leading with 4,368 votes after results from 36 of 57 polling stations, while independent candidate Shahida had 4,312 votes.

In GBA-14 Astore-2, PML-N candidate Rana Muhammad Farooq was leading with 3,390 votes after results from 24 of 51 polling stations, narrowly ahead of PPP’s Shamsul-ul-Haq Lone with 3,383 votes.

In GBA-15 Diamer-1, independent candidate Muhammad Dilpazir was leading with 1,274 votes after results from eight of 51 polling stations, while Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) candidate Wali-ur-Rehman had 805 votes.

In GBA-16 Diamer-2, independent candidate Imam Malik was leading with 2,790 votes after results from 16 of 42 polling stations, followed by PPP candidate Attaullah with 2,474 votes.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces targeted multiple militant hideouts in the area during ongoing operations. The military said 27 militants belonging to “Fitna al-Khawarij” were killed following intense exchanges of fire.

A large quantity of arms and ammunition was recovered from the slain militants, the statement said.

The ISPR said those killed were involved in terrorist activities and target killings of civilians. It added that the militants included individuals involved in the killing of Malik Saifullah Dawar in Miran Shah.

The military said the operation avenged Dawar’s killing and brought those responsible to justice.

Provincial Election Commissioner Abid Raza, Gilgit Deputy Commissioner Arif Ahmad, SP Gilgit, and other relevant officials accompanied him during the visit.

The chief election commissioner interacted with polling staff, security personnel and administrative officers, directing them to perform their duties with neutrality, transparency, and professionalism.

He also inspected the facilities and arrangements provided to voters at the polling stations.

During the visit, Raja Shahbaz Khan met polling agents representing different candidates.

The agents appreciated the Election Commission of Gilgit-Baltistan for ensuring peaceful polling and making effective arrangements for the electoral process.

Later, the chief election commissioner visited the Gilgit Safe City Control Centre, where he was briefed on the monitoring of polling stations, security measures, and special arrangements made for the elections.

Inspector General of Police Nasir Akbar Khan and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.

Authorities informed him about the use of modern surveillance systems and security mechanisms to ensure continuous monitoring of election-related activities.

Expressing satisfaction over the overall electoral and security arrangements, Raja Shahbaz Khan commended the performance of the district administration, law enforcement agencies, and other concerned authorities.

He reaffirmed the Election Commission’s commitment to utilising all available resources to ensure free, fair, peaceful, and transparent elections.

He also urged the public to actively participate in the democratic process and cooperate with the administration and law enforcement agencies in maintaining a peaceful environment throughout the polling process.

Voting is being held in 24 constituencies from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with 396 candidates contesting for seats in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.

The Election Commission said all arrangements for the polls had been completed. A total of 1,368 polling stations have been established across the region for more than 958,000 registered voters. Of these, 551 polling stations have been declared highly sensitive.

According to official figures, 958,480 voters are eligible to cast their ballots, including 503,772 men and 454,708 women.

The election campaign concluded after weeks of rallies, corner meetings and voter outreach drives by political parties and independent candidates.

Campaigning also featured competing claims and criticism among rival parties.

Party-wise, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has fielded candidates in 23 constituencies, while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is contesting 22 seats.

The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party has entered candidates in 15 constituencies, while the Pakistan Nazriyati Party is contesting 10 seats. Another 11 candidates from the Pakistan Muslim League are also in the race.

Nineteen candidates affiliated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are contesting as independents, while a total of 266 independent candidates are participating in the election.

Eight women candidates are also among those seeking election to the assembly.

Authorities have implemented extensive security measures to ensure peaceful polling.

More than 3,500 police personnel have been deployed in three constituencies of Gilgit alone, while additional security arrangements and monitoring have been instituted at sensitive and highly sensitive polling stations.

The elections are considered a key test for the region’s political landscape, with the outcome expected to influence governance, development priorities and political stability in Gilgit-Baltistan over the coming years.

Iran’s state-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported that Naqvi is expected to meet Iran’s Supreme Leader during his visit and convey the message from Field Marshal Munir.

The visit comes amid ongoing regional diplomatic efforts and Pakistan’s active role in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States.

According to Iranian media outlets IRNA and Tasnim, Naqvi will also hold talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other senior Iranian officials during his stay in Tehran. Discussions are expected to focus on bilateral relations, regional developments, border cooperation, security issues and other matters of mutual interest.

Before departing for Tehran, Naqvi held consultations with Pakistan’s senior political and military leadership.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif separately briefed the interior minister.

Sources in Islamabad said Naqvi received detailed briefings on the objectives and scope of the visit, with the agenda expected to cover the regional situation and ongoing diplomatic negotiations.

The visit marks Naqvi’s third trip to Tehran in recent weeks, underscoring the growing pace of high-level engagement between Pakistan and Iran.

He recently attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Interior Ministers’ Meeting in Kyrgyzstan, where he held two separate meetings with Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni.

The discussions focused on bilateral relations and regional issues.

According to IRNA, Naqvi returned to Lahore after the SCO meeting before departing again for Tehran. Iranian media noted that the Pakistani interior minister has visited Iran several times this year.

During previous visits in April and May 2026, Naqvi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni.

He also held a notable meeting with Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps chief Gen Ahmad Vahidi and met President Pezeshkian twice within a week during one of the visits.

Pakistan has emerged as a key diplomatic player in efforts to ease tensions between Iran and the United States.

According to Iranian reports, the current diplomatic process began in April 2026 when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US, with Pakistan assuming a mediation role.

Islamabad subsequently hosted 21 hours of negotiations between Iranian and American delegations.

Although the talks did not result in a final agreement, diplomatic contacts have continued, with several senior Pakistani officials, including Field Marshal Asim Munir, making repeated visits to Tehran.

During one such visit, Field Marshal Munir met President Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf. The discussions focused on reducing regional tensions, enhancing stability and exploring avenues for a lasting settlement.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei recently said the parties were in the final stages of drafting a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the conflict.

Observers view Naqvi’s latest visit as an important development in ongoing regional diplomatic efforts and a further indication of Pakistan’s expanding role in facilitating dialogue and regional stability.

During the meeting, Naqvi briefed the PM on his meetings held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conference in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.

 “During the meeting, they also held consultations regarding the interior minister’s upcoming visit to Tehran. The prime minister provided guidance concerning the visit,” the PMO said.

Naqvi’s visit to Tehran is significant as Pakistan continues its efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran in a bid to end their more than three-month-long conflict.

Meanwhile, the PM and the interior minister also held a detailed discussion on the overall law and order and security situation in the country.

Naqvi briefed PM Shehbaz on the measures being taken to maintain law and order and ensure the protection of citizens across the country.

The prime minister emphasised the need for close coordination and a unified strategy among all relevant institutions to further strengthen law and order and enhance security nationwide, the PMO said.

A senior Pakistani diplomat told the UN General Assembly that the latest Security Council’s annual report has highlighted the longstanding Kashmir and Palestine disputes, which he said must be resolved in accordance with the 15-member body’s own resolutions.

“During the reporting period (January 1 to December 31, 2025),  more than twenty communications concerning the ‘India-Pakistan Question’ were brought to the attention of the Security Council,” Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, said, pointing out that the Council also held closed consultations under this agenda item in May 2025.

“This underscores that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, which has remained on the Council’s agenda for more than seven decades, continues to engage its attention,” Ambassador Asim Ahmad said about the report, which Pakistan, as the Council’s President in July 2025, coordinated and drafted.

Pakistan, he said, believes that durable peace in South Asia requires a just settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute under the relevant Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, who must be allowed to exercise their right to self-determination.

The Pakistani envoy’s remarks drew a response from Indian Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, claiming “loud and clear” that Kashmir was an integral part of India, with Pakistani delegate Gul Qaiser Sarwani,  in a sharp rebuttal, accusing New Delhi of denying the UN-promised right of self-determination to the Kashmiri people.

In his remarks to the 193-member Assembly, Ambassador Asim Ahmad also said the annual report highlights the continued relevance of long-standing disputes on the Security Council’s agenda, including the Question of Palestine and the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, which have implications for regional and international peace and security, and which must be resolved.

On Palestine, the Pakistani envoy said the continuing tragedy, particularly in Gaza, remained high on the Council’s agenda. After repeated failures to halt the bloodshed, the Council adopted resolution 2803, endorsing the Gaza Peace Plan and offering a ray of hope.

“It is imperative that resolution 2803 be implemented fully and faithfully,” he said.

Pakistan, he added,  reaffirms its unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, for an independent, viable and contiguous State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders, and Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

The report also underscores the indispensable role of United Nations peace operations and special political missions, Ambassador Asim Ahmad said. Pakistan, he said,  is committed to strengthening peacekeeping and ensuring that peace operations are effective, adequately resourced and responsive to evolving challenges.

The challenges confronting the international community underscore the need for a more democratic, representative and accountable multilateral system, he said, adding the use of veto remained a concern among Member States.

It was therefore clear that expansion of individual permanent members and veto run counter to these shared objectives, he said.

 “We are committed to a comprehensive reform of the Security Council that corresponds to the interests of the large majority of member states, not just a few — Reform for all, privilege for none

Exercising his right of reply, Gul Qaiser Sarwani, Counsellor/Political Coordinator at the Pakistan Mission to the UN, reminded the Indian envoy that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally-recognised dispute on the agenda of the Security Council.

“No amount of obfuscation can alter the historical, legal and international character of this dispute, he said, adding Jammu and Kashmir never was, neither is, and nor will ever be so-called an integral part of India,” the official declared.

Sarwani told the General Assembly that India continues to deny the Kashmiri people opf their inalienable right to self-determination.

Meanwhile, arbitrary detentions, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, demographic engineering and other human rights violations continue in the Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which have been documented.

“The main problem  is that by refusing to implement Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir, India continues to disregard its obligations under the UN Charter, including Article 25, which requires Member States to accept and carry out the decisions of the Security Council.”

The Pakistani delegate said India’s efforts to divert attention through allegations against Pakistan cannot conceal its own troubling record: sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan,  perpetrating state terrorism in occupied Kashmir, conducting state-backed assassination campaigns in foreign countries, stoking violence against minorities, support for destabilising activities in the region and disregarding international law, including its unlawful attempt to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.

Federal Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the MoU was signed between KPT, Saudi Business Council-NAJD Gateway Holding Company, Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Limited (AHDRML), and the Pakistan Corporate Consortium, as per a press release.

The proposed project would be built on a 140‑acre KPT site on MT Khan Road, Karachi, and was intended to transform the area into a major commercial and maritime hub.

The development is envisaged to include modern commercial infrastructure aimed at attracting investment, generating employment, and supporting urban development.

“This strategic collaboration is a transformative opportunity to unlock the full potential of Karachi Port Trust’s waterfront assets and position Pakistan as a regional hub for maritime commerce and investment,” Chaudhry said.

He said all regulatory and legal requirements under Pakistani law will be met before the project proceeds.

Members of the Saudi delegation showed keen interest in broader cooperation in the maritime sector, including potential involvement in port infrastructure and related projects.

Junaid Chaudhry said the visit is part of wider efforts by Islamabad and Riyadh to deepen economic ties and explore investment opportunities in ports, logistics, infrastructure and trade facilitation.

“Subject to regulatory approvals, the development could become one of the largest waterfront commercial projects in the region,” he said.