WorldUS-Iran clashes in Strait of Hormuz strain fragile Gulf ceasefire
US and Iranian forces exchanged fire in the Strait of Hormuz, with both sides offering conflicting accounts as attacks spread to the UAE and Oman. Oil prices jumped, markets fell and airlines suspended services across key Gulf routes.
May 5, 2026
NATIONALFCC questions Supreme Court ruling on wedlock policy
The Federal Constitutional Court has disagreed with a Supreme Court ruling on the wedlock policy, saying it does not create an absolute or vested right to posting with a spouse. The court said transfer decisions remain subject to administrative needs and the discretion of competent authorities.
May 5, 2026
SportsPetition filed against fireworks in PSL final
A petition in the Lahore High Court has challenged the use of chemical fireworks during the PSL Season 11 final at Gaddafi Stadium. The plea seeks action against the authorities and asks for an environmental penalty equal to 25 per cent of PSL revenue.
May 5, 2026
BusinessMEPCO losses raise regulator’s alarm
Nepra has voiced concern over Mepco’s higher losses, under-utilised funds and weaknesses in its five-year investment plan. The regulator said the utility failed to justify key spending proposals and must improve planning, maintenance and system performance.
May 5, 2026
BusinessPakistan commits to curbing sovereign wealth fund powers under IMF review
Pakistan has assured the IMF it will amend the sovereign wealth fund law to remove powers to sell SOE assets, retain revenues and borrow. The fund will remain non-operational until parliament passes the changes.
May 5, 2026
BusinessSBP injects over Rs4.6 trillion into banks through open market operations
The State Bank of Pakistan injected more than Rs4.6 trillion into the banking system through conventional and Shariah-compliant OMOs to ease liquidity pressure. The rupee edged up slightly, while gold and silver prices fell in local and global markets.
May 5, 2026
BusinessCCP clears Nishat Group consortium’s acquisition of Rafhan Maize shares
The Competition Commission of Pakistan has approved a Nishat Group consortium’s proposed acquisition of shares in Rafhan Maize Products Company after a phase-I review. The regulator said the deal was unlikely to substantially lessen competition.
May 5, 2026
WorldOil prices jump 6% on UAE, vessel attacks
Oil prices rose sharply on Monday after attacks in the UAE and the Strait of Hormuz increased fears over disruptions to Gulf energy supplies. Brent climbed 6.3% while WTI gained 4.2% amid escalating US-Iran tensions.
May 5, 2026
BusinessFBR shortfall raises questions over budget revenue targets
Business representatives have questioned the government’s next revenue target after the FBR posted a shortfall of over Rs600 billion. They urged the upcoming budget to reflect economic realities and focus on structural reforms.
May 5, 2026
BusinessRefinery output rises in April as OMC sales decline amid higher fuel prices
Pakistan’s refinery production increased 10.7% in April 2026, driven by higher diesel and petrol output, while OMC sales fell 7% amid higher fuel prices. Government petroleum levy collection reached Rs1.21 trillion in 10MFY26.
May 5, 2026
NATIONALFormer Nadra chief Tariq Malik named among Okta’s top 25 identity leaders
Former Nadra chairman Tariq Malik has been named among Okta’s top 25 identity leaders worldwide. The recognition highlights his work in digital identity, governance and public infrastructure.
May 5, 2026
NATIONALProminent cleric Maulana Muhammad Idrees shot dead in Charsadda attack
Renowned cleric Maulana Muhammad Idrees was shot dead in Charsadda after unidentified attackers opened fire on his vehicle, police said. Two officials were also injured, while the KP police chief has sought a report and ordered arrests.
May 5, 2026