Author: Saifullah

Ishaq Dar has expressed optimism that the ongoing ceasefire between the United States and Iran can be transformed into a permanent arrangement, highlighting Pakistan’s continued diplomatic engagement in easing regional tensions. Speaking at a session of the Ulema Council, he noted that Pakistan had actively worked to facilitate direct negotiations and de-escalation between the two sides. He emphasized that the ceasefire was not a one-time development but a sustained diplomatic process, explaining that it was first achieved and then extended multiple times. According to Dar, these repeated extensions played a crucial role in reducing violence, bringing an end to a…

In international relations, there are no permanent friends or enemies, only permanent interests. John Mearsheimer’s theory of offensive realism underscores a harsh truth: capabilities matter more than intentions. Today’s strategic partner can quickly evolve into tomorrow’s adversary, and it is military capability, not diplomatic rhetoric, that ultimately defines this transformation. This reality is now unfolding through India’s Defence Research and Development Organization and its latest push for the Agni-VI missile. The Agni-VI is projected to be a four-stage intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with MIRV and MaRV technology, with a reported range of 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers. Such capability extends far…

The developments surrounding Operation Marka-e-Haq have torn apart long-standing narratives that shaped regional security discourse for decades. The triggering incident in Pahalgam immediately raised serious doubts. Given the area’s heavy surveillance, multiple checkpoints, and the presence of a rapid response force just 1.5 kilometers away, the occurrence of such an event without state awareness appears implausible. These factors strongly point toward the characteristics of a staged or false flag operation. India’s reaction through Operation Sindoor only deepened these contradictions. While New Delhi claimed to have neutralized three militants, reports suggested that nine unidentified individuals lost their lives, and nearly 2,800…

Ishaq Dar briefed members of the Diplomatic Corps on the first anniversary of #MarkaEHaq, describing it as a symbol of national unity, resilience, and the resolve of Pakistan Armed Forces to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said Pakistan’s response during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos was measured, lawful, and aligned with the UN Charter, emphasizing that military action was limited to targeting specific installations. He also warned of the dangers of escalation, particularly risks to civilians and broader regional stability. Dar reiterated that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains a core issue driving regional tensions, calling for its resolution under…

The United Arab Emirates has confirmed that its air defence systems are actively intercepting incoming missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) threats amid rising regional tensions. In an official statement, the UAE defence ministry said that air defence units are currently engaged in operations to counter missiles and drone attacks. It added that the sounds heard across the country are linked to ongoing interception activities. “Sounds heard across the country are the result of ongoing engaging operations of missiles and UAVs,” the ministry stated. The announcement comes as the wider Gulf region experiences heightened security concerns, with repeated reports of…

Ishaq Dar has warned that any attempt to weaponise water will be treated as an act of aggression against Pakistan, stating that the country reserves the right to defend its national interests under international law. Speaking on regional and global developments, the deputy prime minister said recent tensions in South Asia and beyond have underscored the importance of coordinated diplomatic engagement to preserve stability. Dar also referred to past regional hostilities, saying that India’s military response following the 2019 Pulwama incident was unlawful. He further pointed to ongoing concerns regarding threats linked to the Indus Waters Treaty, warning that any…

Lebanon’s health ministry has reported a sharp rise in casualties, stating that at least 2,702 people have been killed in Israeli attacks since fighting resumed on March 2. The ministry further said that 8,311 individuals have been wounded during the same period, reflecting the growing human toll of the renewed escalation. The figures underscore the continuing intensity of cross-border hostilities involving Israel and armed groups operating in Lebanon, with civilian infrastructure and populated areas reportedly among the worst affected. The conflict has further strained an already fragile humanitarian situation in Lebanon, where emergency services and medical facilities continue to operate…

Maulana Sheikh Muhammad Idrees, a well-known religious figure and former Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan-Fazl (JUI-F) MPA, was shot dead in a targeted attack in Charsadda district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday, according to police officials. Authorities said the incident took place in the Utmanzai area when the cleric was traveling from his home to his madrassa. Unidentified assailants on motorcycles opened fire on his vehicle, killing him on the spot. District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Waqas confirmed that two police personnel assigned for his security were also injured in the attack and shifted to Peshawar for medical treatment. Police said the…

The United States has signaled that its forces remain fully prepared to resume large-scale combat operations against Iran if ordered, amid ongoing tensions in the region. According to AFP, citing remarks from the top US military leadership, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine said that US Central Command and the broader joint force are maintaining full operational readiness. He emphasized that current restraint should not be misinterpreted as weakness, warning that US forces are capable of rapidly escalating operations if directed by political leadership. “US Central Command and the rest of the joint force remain ready to…

Pakistan on Tuesday marked what it described as a victory in the “Marka-e-Haq” operation, which it says was launched in response to India’s alleged “policy-driven false flag operation” in May 2025. A formal ceremony was held in the federal capital to commemorate the first anniversary of the operation, during which a book titled “The Battle of Truth” was also launched. The event was attended by senior civil and military leadership. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar represented the civilian government, while retired military leadership, including Aamer Riaz, participated alongside other officials. Speakers at the ceremony presented what…