WorldPlanned US-Iran talks in Switzerland were cancelled after JD Vance dropped his trip, while Israeli strikes killed at least 15 people in southern Lebanon. The developments added to uncertainty around implementation of the Islamabad MoU.
CITYA CTD official, Baba Jan Muhammad Hassni, died after being wounded in a firing incident at Ahmedwal Chowk in Nushki, according to Shahid Rind. The Balochistan chief minister has ordered an immediate investigation and steps to arrest the attackers.
NATIONALGovernment institutions and educational facilities across Balochistan began shutting down on Thursday after the Balochistan Grand Alliance announced an indefinite protest campaign. The move followed police action in Quetta, where several employees and alliance leaders were arrested.
NATIONALKarachi’s public transport strike will continue on Friday after talks between transporters and the Sindh government failed to yield a breakthrough. The shutdown has disrupted travel across the city, where thousands rely on buses and minibuses each day.
BusinessSindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has defended the Rs3.652 trillion FY27 budget as a responsible plan shaped by falling federal transfers and fiscal pressure. He also outlined austerity steps and major infrastructure proposals, including Keti Bandar and a financial centre in Karachi.
NATIONALTeachers at Federal Urdu University intensified their protest in Karachi, surrounding the vice chancellor’s vehicle and demanding unpaid salaries, pensions and other benefits. The demonstration briefly spilled onto University Road, disrupting traffic.
SportsSwitzerland beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1 in Los Angeles after scoring four times late in the game. Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas made the difference as Bosnia finished with 10 men.
CITYFive children from one family have died in Bannu over the past three weeks, while three others are ill. Health authorities have formed a medical board and collected samples as they investigate the cause.
BusinessThe government is reviewing a major cut in petrol and diesel prices after a steep fall in international crude oil rates. Officials are considering a reduction of more than Rs55 per litre.
NATIONALThe AJK government has put 150 members of the banned JAAC on the Fourth Schedule through 10 Home Department notifications. The listed individuals include four senior leaders and others accused in the notifications of involvement in violent activities.
NATIONALMardan police say they have arrested a serving constable over the killing of a Sikh couple in Baboo Mohalla. Police told a press conference the suspect was traced within 24 hours and the investigation is continuing.
BusinessThe Asian Development Bank has approved a $700 million loan for Pakistan to support insurance sector reforms. The programme aims to expand coverage, strengthen financial resilience and reduce protection gaps.
