WorldDonald Trump said his patience with Iran was running out as talks remained stalled, while Abbas Araghchi said Pakistan’s mediation had not failed but was facing difficulty. Both sides signalled diplomacy remained possible despite deep mistrust.
NATIONALPakistan said it has repatriated 11 of its nationals and 20 Iranian citizens who were aboard vessels seized by the United States in international waters. Ishaq Dar said all 31 were in good health and were due to arrive in Islamabad on Friday night.
NATIONALNepra has approved additional electricity imports from Iran for Balochistan, including 100MW on top of the existing 104MW supply. The regulator also raised concerns over delays by CPPA-G and ordered a long-term regional power supply roadmap.
NATIONALTariq Fazal Chaudhry told the National Assembly that the state would act against anyone supporting or facilitating terrorism. He also said the BLA is an internationally designated terrorist organisation and referred to the martyrdom of Coast Guard personnel in a recent firing incident.
WorldNEW DELHI: BRICS foreign ministers ended their meeting without a joint statement after divisions emerged over the war involving Iran. India’s chair’s statement said members held differing views on the Middle East crisis and parts of the Gaza language.
NATIONALISLAMABAD: The Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (Conversion) (Repeal) Ordinance, 2026 was laid in the National Assembly on Friday after already being placed before the Senate. A bill on insurance regulation and a finance committee report were also presented.
WorldSuspected militants abducted students from a school in Nigeria’s Borno state on Friday, residents said. Parents and villagers estimated that between 35 and 43 pupils were taken.
NATIONALThe federal government has introduced new civil service conduct rules, replacing the 1964 framework with stricter provisions on asset disclosure, conflicts of interest, social media use and financial accountability. The rules also allow public disclosure of annual asset declarations of officers in B
SportsThe PCB has announced Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the Ireland tri-series, with Fatima Sana continuing as captain. Five players are set for their first appearance at the global tournament.
BusinessA new Energy Transitions Commission study says the Hormuz disruption has exposed the risks of fossil fuel dependence and strengthened the case for faster renewable energy deployment. It says Pakistan’s rooftop solar growth helped cushion the shock.
BusinessThe State Bank of Pakistan has launched a nationwide Go Cashless campaign for Eidul Azha, expanding digital payment coverage in cattle markets from 54 to 96 this year. Twenty-two banks will set up camps and kiosks to facilitate QR code payments and account opening.
BusinessSBP Governor Jameel Ahmad says designs for new currency notes have been finalised and sent to the federal cabinet for approval. He also shared updates on inflation, remittances, exports and SME financing at a KCCI meeting.
