NEWS ROUNDUP
Pakistan
1. Cabinet body approves design of National Integrated Energy Plan 2027–2060
The Cabinet Committee on Energy has approved the National Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) 2027–2060. This 33-year strategic roadmap aims to ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy by replacing fragmented planning with an integrated approach across federal and provincial institutions.
2. Over 9 terrorists killed in Balochistan IBOs: state media
Security forces killed nine terrorists during intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Balochistan's Ziarat, Harnai, and Surab districts. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that operations against groups linked to domestic and external destabilization will continue with full force.
3. PM Shehbaz meets Google delegation, inaugurates company's Pakistan office
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated Google’s first local office in Islamabad, marking a milestone in Pakistan's $30 billion IT export ambition. The partnership aims to leverage the country's 'youth bulge' and accelerate a national digital transformation across governance sectors.
4. Commission formed to probe Mangi Dam attack in Balochistan
The Balochistan government has formed a judicial inquiry commission, led by Justice Muhammad Amir Nawaz Rana, to investigate the Mangi Dam attack. The inquiry seeks to identify accountability for the incident where 31 policemen were abducted and martyred.
5. Tarar calls for stronger narrative battle to counter terrorism and extremism
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar emphasized that Pakistan's fight against terrorism must evolve from military action to a 'narrative war' against extremism. He noted that the National Action Plan remains critical to bridging the gap between perception and reality in national security.
6. 5.4-magnitude earthquake jolts Islamabad, parts of K-P
A 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck the Hindu Kush region, with tremors felt across Islamabad, Peshawar, and parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The Pakistan Meteorological Department confirmed the event, noting no immediate reports of damage or casualties despite the significant depth and regional impact.
7. Health ministry employees must get tested for hepatitis C or will not receive salaries from next month: Kamal
Health Minister Mustafa Kamal announced a nationwide Hepatitis C screening campaign, making testing mandatory for all federal ministry employees. The programme, supported by the World Health Organization, aims to eliminate the disease by 2030 through expanded screening centres and subsidized treatment.
USA & Americas
1. Trump and Carney hold urgent talks as steep 50% US tariffs on Canada loom
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney held urgent talks with President Trump to avoid steep 50% tariffs on Canadian goods. The US alleges discriminatory practices against American alcohol, car, and dairy products.
2. Mexico weighs tougher trade rules for China, as US talks grind on
Mexico is weighing new trade restrictions on Chinese products while seeking to extend the USMCA trade pact. President Claudia Sheinbaum is deepening alignment with Washington to bolster domestic manufacturing and counter trade imbalances.
3. Disney sues US regulator, claiming political retaliation over ABC stations
Disney and ABC have filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging that an early licence renewal order is an act of political retaliation for the network’s editorial coverage. The suit claims federal pressure is being used to chill journalistic independence.
4. Minnesota sues Texas to force extradition of ICE agent accused of lying about shooting
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has sued the governor of Texas, seeking the extradition of an ICE agent charged with lying about a shooting in Minneapolis. The case highlights tensions between state authority and federal law enforcement agencies.
5. Top Democrats tussle in Florida primary but progressive liberalism not on menu
In Florida’s Democratic primaries, moderate candidates are heavily favoured over progressives, reflecting a shift in the state's political climate. Analysts note that national liberal platforms face significant hurdles in Florida's increasingly conservative electoral landscape.
6. Florida Primary Underscores State’s New Identity as a Republican Juggernaut
Florida’s primary elections have cemented the state’s identity as a Republican juggernaut. With control over all statewide offices and a newly gerrymandered map, the party is solidifying its electoral influence ahead of the midterms.
China & Asia Pacific
1. China debuts regular Arctic shipping service amid Iran war. Is this the Polar pivot?
China launched its first regular shipping service through the Arctic’s Northern Sea Route, aiming to bypass chokepoints affected by Middle East conflicts. This polar pivot significantly slashes travel time between Asian markets and Europe.
2. China Removes Microsoft Windows at State Users Ahead of Plan
China is accelerating the removal of Microsoft Windows from state-owned systems. This transition is part of a broader push to reduce reliance on Western technology and bolster domestic cybersecurity infrastructure.
3. Philippine school shooter kills fellow student and himself in livestreamed attack
A school shooting in Zamboanga City, Philippines, resulted in the death of two students, including the gunman. This rare incident, the second in two months, has prompted authorities to tighten security and investigate the illicit entry of high-powered firearms into Catholic school campuses.
4. Hong Kong births fall below 30,000 for first time, even as population edges up
Hong Kong recorded fewer than 30,000 births for the first time, despite an overall population increase. The 15.6% decline in fertility rates poses a long-term public health and socioeconomic challenge for the city.
Russia & Europe
1. Ukraine vows to respond after Russian strike kills 10 in northeast region
A Russian rocket strike on Pechenihy, Ukraine, killed 10 people and wounded 17. The incident marks an escalation in civilian casualties, with Kyiv vowing a swift military response to the continued bombardment of its border regions.
2. German court convicts Ukrainian man over Russian sabotage plot
A German court convicted a Ukrainian man for spying for Russia and planning acts of sabotage. The plot involved using GPS-tracked packages to scope out vulnerabilities in European transport and infrastructure networks.
3. Inside secret police warehouse as Germany targets small boats gangs
Germany seized 9,000 life jackets and various boating equipment during raids against migrant-smuggling gangs. This enforcement action marks the first application of new laws designed to criminalize the facilitation of illegal Channel crossings.
India & South Asia
1. Pakistan accuses India of overseas killings after New Delhi says Islamabad backed militant network
Pakistan accused India of state-sponsored terrorism, claiming New Delhi is orchestrating targeted assassinations abroad. This follows India’s announcement that it arrested 200 operatives linked to a Pakistan-backed militant network.
2. Al-Qaida’s Renewed Confidence in Bangladesh
Al-Qaida’s potential attempts to establish cells in Bangladesh have sparked regional security concerns. The government has increased the alert status for police and security agencies following reports of rising radical activity.
3. Why Indian law students don't want top judge at their graduation ceremony
Indian law students at Nalsar University have demanded that the Chief Justice of India not be invited to their convocation. This protest highlights growing youth anger over recent judicial comments and a desire to distance academic institutions from political controversies.
Afghanistan & Middle East
1. Iranian Ballistic Missiles trigger major Security Alert across UAE
The UAE detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran, triggering a security alert and suspending trade relations. While no casualties were reported, the incident has soared regional tensions and put Emirati forces on high alert.
2. Israeli airstrikes hit Syrian airbase, US envoy concerned over escalation
Israel struck the Abu al-Duhur airbase in Syria, drawing sharp condemnation from the US. Special Envoy Tom Barrack labelled the strike an 'unnecessary escalation' that undermines regional deconfliction efforts.
3. Disarmament of Hamas could begin in a month: Kushner
US Envoy Jared Kushner stated that Hamas disarmament could begin within 30 days. Under a US-backed plan, an American general will verify the decommissioning of weapons and filling of tunnels in Gaza to pave the way for reconstruction.
Africa
1. Kariba ferry death toll rises to 93, making it Zimbabwe's deadliest transport disaster
The death toll from the Lake Kariba ferry disaster in Zimbabwe has risen to 93, making it the country’s deadliest transport accident. President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster as recovery efforts continue.
2. Zambia's Hichilema re-elected president as main rival in hiding over alleged threats
Hakainde Hichilema has been re-elected as President of Zambia with 60% of the vote. The opposition leader, Brian Mundubile, has alleged electoral irregularities and is reportedly in exile due to security threats.
3. Patrick Vieira appointed Senegal head coach with AFCON qualifiers looming
Patrick Vieira has been appointed head coach of the Senegal national football team, signalling a major leadership shift ahead of the AFCON qualifiers. His appointment aims to revitalize the squad’s performance.
Australia & Oceania
1. Australia politics live: NDIS reforms to pass parliament today after 63 amendments get Coalition on side
Australia’s NDIS reforms passed the Senate after a deal between Labor and the Coalition involving 63 amendments. The legislation aims to address long-term sustainability while sparking debate over the impact on participants.
2. At least 109 BHP workers sexually harassed colleagues in a single year, mining company says
BHP disclosed that over 100 workers were terminated or resigned due to systemic sexual harassment within the mining company. The report underscores growing scrutiny of working conditions in remote industry sites.
3. Ex-Australia batter Warner fined for drink-driving
Former Australian cricketer David Warner was fined A$1,500 for drink-driving. The court mandated the installation of an alcohol interlock device in his vehicle to prevent future offences, highlighting the country's strict road safety enforcement.
Defence Industry
1. Northrop Grumman Clears E-2D Hawkeye Block II Design Review for Navy
Northrop Grumman completed the critical design review for the US Navy’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Block II upgrade. This overhaul of software and hardware significantly enhances the airborne early warning capabilities of carrier strike groups.
2. Syrian court sentences detained Assad cousin to death for crimes against humanity
A Syrian court sentenced a cousin of Bashar al-Assad to death for atrocities and brutality during the country’s 14-year civil war. The verdict serves as a symbolic reckoning for the regime's past abuses.
3. Inside Brazil’s 3D-Printed Gun Supply Chain
Brazilian police raided a clandestine workshop in Rio de Janeiro using 3D-printing technology to manufacture firearms. The operation highlights the evolving complexity of criminal arms supply chains using digital blueprints.
Science & Technology
1. Trump crypto firm backs venture offering AI from restricted Chinese companies
World Liberty Financial, a firm backed by the Trump family, is partnering with a venture utilizing AI models from restricted Chinese companies. This collaboration has sparked scrutiny regarding national security risks.
2. OpenAI launches ChatGPT for Teens with stronger safeguards
OpenAI launched 'ChatGPT for Teens', a version tailored for users aged 13-17 with stricter safety safeguards. The platform limits access to content on self-harm and sexual themes, focusing on supporting educational study habits.
3. Anthropic Plans to Give CEO Extra Voting Power, Information Says
Anthropic plans to grant its CEO extra voting power to consolidate strategic decision-making. This move coincides with the firm's rapid revenue growth and ongoing race to lead in commercial AI development.
Climate
1. Firefighters push to 'encircle' Belgian wildfire
Firefighters in Belgium are working to contain the largest wildfire in a century at the High Fens nature reserve. The blaze, covering 7,500 acres of peatland, highlights the extreme vulnerability of European ecosystems to heatwaves.
2. England’s ancient oak trees dying in extreme hot and dry weather
England’s ancient oak trees are dying due to extreme heat and drought stress. The Woodland Trust reports that older 'survivor' trees are struggling to adapt to the accelerating pace of climate change.
3. Iraq’s ghost villages: Islamic State drove people away – now a new enemy is preventing their return
The climate crisis has rendered parts of northern Iraq uninhabitable, creating 'ghost villages' where water shortages have replaced Islamic State as the primary threat. Extreme heat is preventing the return of displaced communities to their ancestral lands.
Others
1. One person dead and more than 200 ill in UK salmonella outbreak
A UK-wide salmonella outbreak has resulted in one death and over 200 illnesses. Health officials have linked the infections to the consumption of imported eggs and are conducting urgent investigations into food safety sources.
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