Barrister Aqeel Malik says US-Iran deal near, calls coming week ‘significant’ for Pakistan

Minister for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik said on Friday the coming week would be “quite significant” for Pakistan, as Islamabad was once again expected to host talks between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the Middle East war. Pakistan is mediating between the US and Iran after the war began on February 28 and has hosted the highest-level talks between the two sides since they snapped diplomatic ties in 1979. Speaking to a private news channel, Malik said the government had completed preparations for the next round of talks, including preventive security measures. He added that, as in the previous round, foolproof security would be ensured, with even stronger arrangements this time. “Within a few hours or by later tonight, things will start becoming clearer. I will not give a specific date or time, but the coming week appears to be very significant for Pakistan, especially for Islamabad,” he said. Malik added that today's announcement by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to open the Strait of Hormuz was part of a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon, adding that Pakistan, along with Muslim and friendly countries, had undertaken diplomatic efforts in this regard. Read: Iran FM announces Hormuz's opening for all commercial vessels till ceasefire's remaining duration Terming the development positive, he said matters had largely been settled, citing statements from both Iranian and US authorities. “Things appear to be moving forward in the right and positive direction, which is very good,” he said. Describing Pakistan’s efforts as “par excellence”, the minister said diplomatic engagement from both the military and civilian leadership was continuing to achieve durable and sustainable peace, adding that Pakistan was playing a central role in the process. Responding to a question on the timeline for a possible agreement, Malik said diplomacy was a work in progress and outcomes could not be rushed, particularly in mediation. “Mediation takes time. Both parties begin from strong positions, then talks take place, followed by messaging and shuttle diplomacy, in which Pakistan has played a pivotal role, particularly during last week’s talks in Islamabad,” he said. He added that since last week, progress had been significant and both sides had developed an understanding. “President Trump has said it, and Iranian authorities have also indicated that things have moved forward considerably, which is a very good and positive sign,” he said. He ruled out the participation of other foreign leaders or heads of state in the expected agreement, saying the matter concerned only the US and Iran, with Pakistan acting as a mediator and leading the efforts. Also Read: Trump says Iran war should end 'soon', Hezbollah should support truce “I think the next meeting will not involve negotiations; it will indicate that everything is final and ready to be signed,” he said, adding that whenever it happens, it would be highly significant for Pakistan and would send a message of peace to the world. The minister’s statement came as Tehran on Friday declared the Strait of Hormuz “completely open” for commercial ships — the first time since the war began on Feb 28. Pakistan secured a 14-day ceasefire between the US and Iran on April 8. Tehran imposed control on the key waterway soon after the US and Israel launched a war against Iran on February 28, affecting global energy supplies and maritime traffic. The US has imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports since Monday this week, and President Donald Trump has threatened to continue it. Tehran’s announcement came after Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir met Iran's top civil and military leadership over the past two days in Tehran.

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Sugarcane cultivation banned in Katcha areas

In a move to improve law and order, authorities have imposed a ban on sugarcane cultivation near roads and police check posts in the riverine (Katcha) areas of Rahim Yar Khan and adjoining Rajanpur districts. The restriction has been enforced under Section 144, with both district administrations issuing formal notifications. Officials said the decision aims to limit the movement of criminal elements and assist law enforcement agencies in carrying out effective operations in the crime-prone belt. According to sources, dense sugarcane fields in the katcha areas often serve as safe hideouts for criminals, hindering surveillance and delaying police response during operations. By restricting the cultivation of tall crops in sensitive zones, authorities hope to improve visibility and strengthen security control. Rahim Yar Khan Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Anwar Jappa confirmed the development, stating that the decision was taken on the directives of the Home Department to maintain peace in the region. He said the ban would apply specifically to areas along key roads and around police check posts, where monitoring of suspicious activities is critical. "The measure is aimed at facilitating law enforcement agencies and ensuring timely action against criminal elements," he said, adding that farmers have been advised to switch to alternative crops in the restricted areas. The administration has warned that strict legal action will be taken against those found violating the orders. However, officials also emphasised that the decision is temporary and part of broader efforts to establish long-term stability in the region. The move has drawn mixed reactions from local farmers, many of whom fear financial losses due to the sudden restriction. Sugarcane is a major cash crop in the region, and its cultivation supports a large segment of the rural economy. Meanwhile, sugar mill administrations have reportedly challenged the decision in the high court. A legal expert representing the JDW Group said the Home Department had earlier sought proposals from the deputy commissioners of Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur regarding the cultivation of tall crops in sensitive areas. Following this, authorities identified around 150 locations along roads and near police check posts where restrictions would be enforced. The total affected area is estimated to cover approximately 10,000 acres, including around 600 acres linked to JDW Group sugar mills. The legal expert argued that the abrupt ban could result in substantial financial losses for both farmers and the sugar industry, particularly due to the destruction of standing crops. He warned that the decision may have wider implications for the local agricultural economy. Despite concerns, officials maintain that the measure is necessary to tackle crime in the Katcha belt, which has long been considered a hotspot for criminal activity. They expressed hope that the initiative would enhance security and restore public confidence in the affected areas.

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Gas pipeline explosion in K-P's Haripur leaves 8 dead, 5 injured: officials

At least eight members of a household were killed, and five others were injured after a fire from an explosion in a gas pipeline in Haripur in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Hazara division, officials said on Thursday. The blaze engulfed nearby residential settlements in a suburban area at the Hattar Industrial Estate. Confirming the death toll, Haripur Deputy Commissioner Wasim Ahmad said that eight members of one household were killed in the incident, while five people were injured and six were rescued. “The deceased included three children, two girls, two elderly women, and one man,” he added. He said the fire was brought under control after several hours of efforts and that the rescue operation had been completed. The massive fire erupted in a gas pipeline near Colony Mor, Kot Najibullah, in the Hattar Industrial Estate, spreading panic in a nearby factory. Employees managed to escape, but several people were trapped in the adjacent residential area. Rescue and fire brigade teams reached the site immediately, and given the intensity of the fire, seven additional fire vehicles and firefighters were dispatched from Mansehra, Abbottabad, Mardan, and Swabi to bring the situation under control, a Rescue 1122 spokesperson said. Read: Russian strikes kill 17 across Ukraine in worst attack this year Following the incident, gas supply to the Hazara division was suspended. K-P Chief Minister  Sohail Afridi expressed sorrow over the loss of lives. He said the provincial government stood with the grieved families and was providing the best treatment to the wounded. He gave his assurance for all the help to the affected families. Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Information Shafi Jan said that he was deeply saddened by the incident.  “Rescue 1122 and other agencies immediately launched rescue activities as workers from nearby districts were also involved in relief work as best treatment was made certain to the wounded,” he said.  “The chief minister also ordered the best treatment for the injured persons and vowed to provide every possible support,” he added.

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Pakistan, UK launch initiative to strengthen geoscientific capacity, mineral sector

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, along with British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott, on Thursday launched a capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening the country's geoscientific capabilities and supporting the development of the mineral sector. The programme was formally inaugurated at the Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP), marking a significant step in Pakistan-UK collaboration. The initiative is being delivered through the UK-funded REMIT programme in partnership with International Geoscience Services (IGS), a UK-based geoscience consultancy with extensive experience in supporting geological survey organisations worldwide. The programme will run from April to July 2026 and aims to enhance GSP’s technical capacity through hands-on training aligned with international standards. Speaking at the event, the minister expressed gratitude to the British official for her support and said the timing of the initiative was particularly appropriate. He said that recent geopolitical developments and conflicts had once again exposed the vulnerabilities associated with excessive dependence on hydrocarbons. اسلام آباد: جیولوجیکل سروے آف پاکستان میں صلاحیت سازی کے پروگرام میں تعاون پر برطانوی ہائی کمیشن کا مشکور ہوں۔ pic.twitter.com/5qBvVLpbQ9 — Ali Pervaiz Malik (@AliPervaiz450) April 16, 2026 Malik emphasised that strengthening institutions such as the GSP was essential to position Pakistan as an attractive destination for mineral exploration and investment, especially in view of the growing global demand for minerals. He reiterated the government’s commitment to developing the mineral sector in a sustainable, transparent, and investor-friendly manner. Read More: Power minister apologises as LNG shock plunges country into severe load-shedding The minister appreciated the support of the British High Commission and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and acknowledged the high commissioner’s personal engagement in advancing the collaboration. He welcomed greater participation of international partners, particularly from the UK, across various segments of Pakistan’s mineral value chain. He added that the programme launched at GSP would help equip Pakistani scientists with modern tools, improve workflows, and enhance institutional capacity. Marriott reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s economic development through technical cooperation and institutional strengthening. She praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts for peace and noted that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had also expressed gratitude in the UK Parliament to the Pakistani government for its efforts to promote peace. She said Pakistan possessed extraordinary geological potential, but realising it depended on reliable data generated through modern methods. “Through this partnership, the UK is supporting Pakistan to build the skills, systems, and credibility needed to attract responsible investment and unlock long-term economic potential across the country,” she added. The launch event was held at the Geoscience Advanced Research Laboratories in Islamabad and was attended by senior representatives, including  Petroleum Division Secretary Hamid Yaqoob Sheikh, GSP Adviser Dr Hamid Ashraf, GSP Director General Adnan Alam Awan and other senior officials.

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Rights groups, JI join hands against inhuman culling of stray dogs, bite attack cases in Punjab

Animal rights organisations and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Lahore on Thursday announced a joint campaign against both the inhumane killing of stray dogs and the rising incidents of bite attacks injuring citizens across Punjab. They agreed on key measures, including adopting scientific population control methods, developing a coordinated strategy and urging district authorities to abandon conventional practices. The understanding was reached during a meeting held in Lahore between representatives of JI and various animal welfare organisations. Participants included JI Lahore Emir Ziauddin Ansari, Public Aid Committee President Qaiser Sharif, Advocate Altamash Saeed and Advocate Mian Ahmad Farooq of Environmental and Animal Rights Consultants Pakistan, Dr Aamna Ubaid Khawaja of LCWU Animal Welfare and Protection Society, and Dr Bilal from Punjab Police Animal Rescue Centre. Read More: Rabies stalks Lahore as dog attacks surge Fariha from Stray Hearts Rescue, representatives of Raffles Animal Welfare Registry, Barrister Masooma Bukhari of Farakhanda and Shehrat Bukhari Foundation, Aafia Khan of Give Us Life Animal Welfare, Musa Shoaib of TODS Welfare Society, and Syed Mohsin of Comprehensive Disaster Response Services (Benji Project), among others, also attended. Sharif said a ten-year-old boy was bitten by stray dogs even in the Askari 10 area in Lahore. “It was not a first or last incident as 436,408 dog bite incidents were reported in only 22 months, but the government is not interested in resolving the issue; the unreported numbers may be much higher,” Sharif said. Addressing the meeting, Ansari said that culling stray dogs was not a sustainable solution, adding that scientific approaches such as catch-neuter-vaccinate-release could prove more effective. The participants endorsed JI’s eight-point agenda and assured cooperation in fieldwork and technical support. The meeting also urged district administrations to move away from traditional methods and implement the proposed recommendations to ensure a balance between public safety and animal welfare.

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Toxic gas in Balochistan mine kills three

Three coal mine workers lost their lives after toxic gas accumulated inside a private coal lease in the Degari area, once again exposing hazardous conditions in Balochistan's mining sector, officials and local sources said on Wednesday. In the Degari locality of Machh, workers were engaged in underground operations when a sudden release of methane and other toxic gases rapidly filled the confined space, causing immediate unconsciousness and fatal suffocation, according to local accounts. The deceased workers include Murad Bakhsh, Ali Hassan, and Dilawar Khan.

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3 civilians killed by Afghan Taliban's unprovoked cross-border shelling in K-P's Bajaur: state media

Three civilians, including two children, were martyred and three others were injured on Wednesday when Afghan Taliban forces carried out unprovoked shelling on locals in a border area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Bajaur district, according to state media. The incident marks a renewed episode of cross-border aggression after a gap of over a month, following Pakistan’s Operation Ghazab Lil Haq launched in response to earlier unprovoked hostility from the Afghan side. In a post on X, state broadcaster PTV News said, quoting security sources, that "Indian-backed Afghan Taliban unprovoked aggression on civilian population in the border village of Malak Shahin in Kat Kot area of Bajaur" martyred a woman and two children from the same house, while three were seriously injured, who were subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment. Read: Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to explore comprehensive peace solution: China "Afghan Taliban have been trying to infiltrate a formation of the khawarij mischief-makers into Pakistan for the past few days. Due to the timely action by the Pakistan Army, the attempt to infiltrate the khawarij mischief-makers was foiled. Frustrated by this failure, the Afghan Taliban targeted Pakistan's civilian population in Kat Kot today," the statement said. It added that the Pakistan Army responded immediately and destroyed the gun position firing from across the border. It further said that Pakistani forces were also targeting Afghan Taliban posts along the Bajaur border, inflicting heavy losses and resulting in heavy casualties for the Afghan Taliban. "Residents of Bajaur have strongly condemned this cowardly act and expressed complete solidarity with the security forces. Security forces remain vigilant and determined at all times to protect the lives and property of the people and to establish lasting peace in the area. Targeting the civilian population by the Afghan Taliban is clear evidence of their nefarious intentions and frustration," the statement said. ٹاپ بریکنگ افغان طالبان کی باجوڑ میں پاکستانی سول آبادی پر گولہ باری ،2بچوں سمیت 3 افرادشہید، 3شدید زخمی بھارتی حمایت یافتہ افغان طالبان کی باجوڑ کے سرحدی علاقے کٹ کوٹ کے گاؤں ملک شاہین میں سول آبادی پر بلا اشتعال جارحیت ، سیکیورٹی ذرائع بلا اشتعال گولہ باری کے نتیجے میں ایک… pic.twitter.com/6u37avUZKQ — PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) April 15, 2026 Operation Ghazab Lil Haq was launched around the end of February following renewed clashes along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, after Afghan Taliban forces fired on multiple locations, prompting swift military retaliation by Pakistan. The neighbouring countries were engaged in escalating hostilities along the frontier since then. The clashes intensified after Afghanistan launched a border offensive in response to Pakistani air strikes targeting terrorist positions and abated during a temporary ceasefire on the occasion of Eidul Fitr. The escalation in tensions between the two countries followed a series of tit-for-tat actions over the past year. Also Read: Two most wanted TTP terrorists gunned down in Tank operation: CTD Pakistan earlier carried out air strikes targeting camps of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State Khorasan Province inside Afghanistan after a wave of attacks in Pakistan, including a suicide bombing in Islamabad. Islamabad has long maintained that TTP leaders operate from Afghan territory, an allegation that Kabul has repeatedly denied. Tensions also surged after a series of explosions in Kabul on October 9 last year. Taliban forces subsequently targeted areas along Pakistan’s border, prompting Islamabad to respond with cross-border shelling. The exchanges caused casualties and infrastructure damage on both sides and led to the suspension of trade after border crossings were closed on October 12, 2025.

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