Israeli authorities have once again implemented strict measures, preventing Palestinians from entering the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem for Friday prayers for the sixth consecutive week. The mosque remains nearly deserted, with only around 4,000 Palestinians, mostly elderly individuals, managing to reach it amid heightened control by Israeli forces over the surrounding streets. The increased Israeli security presence, particularly in the Old City and entrances leading to the mosque, has led hundreds of Palestinians to perform Friday prayers on the streets. Despite the significant impact on religious practices, Israeli authorities have not provided official reasons for restricting Muslim access to Al-Aqsa.…
Author: Saifullah
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ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar has announced that the government plans to increase gas prices once again to address the circular debt issue. During a media briefing, she emphasized the priority of achieving a tax target of Rs9415 billion by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). In the event of a tax revenue shortfall, additional measures will be implemented. Akhtar informed the IMF about tariff revisions in the energy sector and the intention to impose extra taxes on various sectors, including real estate. The decision on taxes for retailers is yet to be determined. The postponement of issuing…
Pakistan’s recent policy decisions regarding Afghan refugees have ignited discussions on the government’s stance. The repatriation process, and its implications for national security. In a program that delves into these critical aspects, the government’s commitment to border security, diplomatic engagements, and the challenges faced during the repatriation process are all brought to light. Government’s Firm Approach and Humanitarian Concerns The program opens by addressing Pakistan’s strict actions against Afghan refugees, exploring the nuances of whether leniency should be extended given the historical, religious, and geographical ties between the two nations. The government’s commitment to protecting the rights of refugees is…
ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar emphasized the potential for increased trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan through streamlined visa processes, enhanced banking channels, and reciprocal warehousing facilities. These sentiments were conveyed during a meeting with Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Jamshid Khodjaev Abdukhakomovich and his seven-member delegation, currently on an official visit to Pakistan. PM Kakar extended a warm welcome to the Uzbek deputy prime minister and recalled his recent discussions with Uzbekistan’s President, Shavkat Mirziyovev, during the 16th ECO Summit in Tashkent. Expressing satisfaction with the progress in bilateral engagements, especially in trade, defense, and connectivity, he commended…
MULTAN: A woman from Multan has come forward with a disturbing allegation, claiming that Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Akbar Shaheen, along with his associates, subjected her to continuous rape over a harrowing 17-day period. She narrated her ordeal, stating that she managed to escape from ASI Shaheen’s residential quarters and sought assistance by calling the police helpline 15. The victim expressed further distress, revealing that she had been receiving threats from Shaheen’s colleagues. Despite filing complaints, she lamented the lack of a medical examination to establish the veracity of her claims. To substantiate her case, she recorded a video of the…
ISLAMABAD: Two Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight attendants, Khalid Afridi and Fida Shah have reportedly Slip away in Canada following the arrival of the airline’s flight from Islamabad to Toronto (PK-772). The PIA spokesperson revealed that upon the scheduled return flight to Pakistan, the two crew members, Afridi and Shah, failed to appear in Toronto, prompting the national flag carrier’s flight to proceed without them. The PIA spokesperson further stated that the local authorities in Canada have been notified, and a thorough investigation is underway. Strict actions are promised against both flight attendants once the inquiry is completed. This incident…
ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has taken a significant step in the investigation of the £190 million scandal case by dispatching an extensive 11-point questionnaire to the former first lady, Bushra Bibi. In this thorough inquiry, the anti-corruption watchdog is delving into various aspects of Bushra Bibi’s involvement, beginning with her educational qualifications and potential pursuit of Islamic teaching courses. One crucial aspect under scrutiny is the purpose behind the establishment of the Al-Qadir University Project Trust. NAB seeks clarification on whether Bushra Bibi simultaneously holds responsibilities as both a teacher and a trustee at Al-Qadir University. The inquiry…
ISLAMABAD: The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is set to convene in Islamabad on Tuesday, November 14, to observe the moon for the new Islamic month of Jamadi ul Awwal. Chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, the meeting will be a crucial gathering for determining the commencement of the upcoming lunar month. Simultaneously, Zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees will assemble in their respective provincial headquarters in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, and Peshawar. To enhance the observational accuracy, representatives from various organizations, including the Meteorological Department and SPARCO, will join the committee’s meeting to provide valuable assistance. The outcome of this session holds significance for the…
ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti announced the decision to repatriate all Afghan refugees residing illegally in Pakistan. In a media statement, he outlined the requirement for Afghan nationals returning to obtain the appropriate visa, similar to other individuals entering Pakistan for business purposes. The objective, as stated by Bugti, is to establish a normal state, with the prime minister emphasizing the dignified repatriation of illegal refugees. Bugti stressed the importance of a systematic mechanism for this process, cautioning against mishandling and assuring that necessary actions would follow any such occurrences. Emphasizing the deliberate nature of this decision, he revealed…
Islamabad: A four-member commission, led by Member Sindh Nisar Durrani, convened to address the contempt of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) case involving Imran Khan, Asad Umar, and Fawad Chaudhry. However, none of the accused attended the proceedings. The assistant counsel requested an adjournment, prompting Commission Chief Nisar Durrani to suggest a hearing in jail if security concerns existed. The Interior Secretary expressed no objection to this proposal. Commission members questioned the legality of such a proceeding, leading the Interior Secretary to seek the law ministry’s opinion. The lawyer disclosed that Fawad Chaudhry was in Adiala jail in judicial…
