Author: Saifullah
Russia’s expanding military engagement with the Taliban regime has opened a new and complex chapter in Eurasian geopolitics, but it is also exposing a deeper contradiction that cannot be ignored. While Moscow publicly positions itself as a stakeholder in global counterterrorism, its growing defense cooperation with the Taliban-controlled administration in Afghanistan raises serious questions about strategic consistency and regional security consequences. The core issue is not diplomacy itself, but the environment in which this diplomacy is unfolding. Afghanistan under Taliban rule has not stabilized in the way many international actors had hoped. Instead, it has increasingly been associated with the…
In a significant milestone for the development of Balochistan, the first test flight by South Air successfully landed at the Gwadar New International Airport, marking a major step forward in the region’s aviation and economic growth. Airport officials and representatives from relevant institutions warmly welcomed the aircraft upon its arrival, celebrating the successful completion of the trial operation. The successful landing is being viewed as an important advancement in strengthening Gwadar’s air connectivity and boosting commercial and trade activities in the region. Officials believe that the operationalization of the airport will open new opportunities for domestic and international travel, further…
Twenty-eight years ago, Pakistan made one of the most defining strategic decisions in its history by responding to India’s nuclear tests conducted on May 11 and 13, 1998. Through six successful nuclear detonations on May 28 and 30, Pakistan restored the strategic balance of power in South Asia and established a credible deterrence framework that fundamentally reshaped the regional security environment. India’s nuclear ambitions had already become evident decades earlier following its 1974 nuclear test, which significantly altered the security calculations of the region. Faced with an increasingly assertive and militarily expanding India, Pakistan pursued nuclear capability not out of aggression, but out…
Donald Trump has stated that he would only support an agreement with Iran if it clearly benefits the United States, emphasizing that negotiations remain a central part of his leadership approach amid continuing regional tensions and diplomatic efforts. Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Trump said negotiations are fundamentally “his job,” adding that he remains actively engaged in talks despite ongoing disagreements between Washington and Tehran. He acknowledged that Iranian negotiators are highly skilled in diplomacy and indicated that discussions have continued even in the face of major political and strategic differences. Trump claimed that the United States currently holds a dominant position…
The leadership of the Pakistan Armed Forces has congratulated the nation on the 28th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, describing the occasion as a historic milestone that symbolizes Pakistan’s strength, unity, and determination to safeguard its sovereignty. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations, Asim Munir, along with the chiefs of the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy, extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation and paid tribute to the landmark achievement that transformed Pakistan into a nuclear power on May 28, 1998. The military leadership stated that Youm-e-Takbeer serves as a reminder of one of the most defining moments in Pakistan’s history, when the country successfully restored…
Pakistan is commemorating the 28th anniversary of becoming a nuclear power with nationwide celebrations of Youm-e-Takbeer, observed with patriotic enthusiasm and renewed commitment to national defence and sovereignty. In his message on the occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari stated that Pakistan harbors no aggressive intentions against any country and described the nation as responsible and peace-loving. However, he emphasized that Pakistan remains fully prepared to make every sacrifice necessary for the defence of the homeland. The President warned that any act of aggression against Pakistan would receive an immediate, forceful, and devastating response. He also paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs, stating…
Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran is prepared to move toward a dignified framework for ending the ongoing conflict, provided that the opposing side also demonstrates genuine willingness for peace and dialogue. During a telephone conversation with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, President Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran has shown sincerity throughout the negotiation process and remains committed to diplomatic engagement. However, he stressed that Tehran would not show even the slightest hesitation in defending its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Iranian president’s remarks came at a time of heightened regional tensions following renewed American military strikes on Iranian targets
Asim Munir has declared that terrorism allegedly backed by India is unacceptable and will be confronted with full force, stating that hostile designs against Pakistan will be defeated at all costs. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations, Field Marshal Asim Munir visited the district of Zhob on the occasion of Eid ul Adha, where he spent time with troops deployed along Pakistan’s western frontiers and celebrated Eid with soldiers stationed at forward positions. During the visit, the Army Chief offered Eid ul Adha prayers alongside military personnel and paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the country. He…
Pakistan and China have once again reinforced the strength of their long-standing strategic partnership, pledging to “unswervingly safeguard” bilateral ties and expand cooperation across economic, political, defence, and regional security sectors. The commitment was announced in a joint statement released at the conclusion of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to China from May 23 to May 26, held at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang. During the high-level visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, where both sides discussed regional stability, economic connectivity, defence coordination, and the future direction of the China-Pakistan partnership. Several…
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts and attempts to maintain a ceasefire, the United States carried out airstrikes in southern Iran, targeting facilities allegedly linked to drone-launching operations. The strikes marked a significant escalation at a time when regional tensions remain extremely sensitive and negotiations are still underway. According to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), Iranian vessels believed to be involved in laying naval mines were also targeted during the operation. CENTCOM stated that the action was taken as a defensive measure aimed at protecting American military personnel and naval assets operating in the region. A report by CNN quoted Central Command spokesperson…
At Ground Zero, we provide comprehensive insights and analysis on terrorism and counter-terrorism efforts across Pakistan, Afghanistan, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Our dedicated team of experts delivers accurate and timely content, helping readers understand the root causes of terrorism, explore strategies used by terrorist organizations, and review government responses.