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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Friday that the proposed “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding” aimed at addressing the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran has “never been closer” to completion. However, he urged media organizations and analysts to avoid speculation regarding the contents of the agreement until negotiations are fully finalized. Araqchi emphasized that Iran remains committed to a transparent approach and assured that all details of the memorandum would be shared publicly once the process is complete. His remarks come amid growing reports that diplomatic efforts involving Pakistan and other regional mediators have brought the parties significantly closer to a potential agreement. The proposed memorandum is widely viewed as a key step toward de-escalating tensions in the region and establishing a framework for further negotiations. While reports suggest that final wording is still being worked out, officials indicate that discussions have advanced considerably, raising expectations for a possible breakthrough in the coming days

💸 SALARIED CLASS RELIEF: New Income Tax Slabs Explained 🇵🇰👇 In a major development during the Federal Budget 2026-27 presentation, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced a significant restructuring of income tax rates for the salaried class. Introduced to ease the pressure of persistent inflation and rising utility costs, these revised slabs aim to boost disposable income for middle and upper-middle-income earners. Swipe through to see exactly how much your tax rate has dropped! 📊 📉 The New Tax Breakdowns: Rs 2.2M – 3.2M Annual Income: Tax slashed from 23% down to 20% (Targeted relief for lower-middle income earners). Rs 3.2M – 4.1M Annual Income: Tax dropped from 30% down to 25%. Rs 4.1M – 5.6M Annual Income: Tax reduced from 35% down to 29% (A major 6% breathing room for mid-tier professionals). Rs 5.6M – 7.0M Annual Income: Tax brought down from 35% down to 32%.

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The world promised to end child labour by 2025. That promise failed. 138 million children are still working instead of learning, mostly trapped in poverty, conflict, and invisible labour systems. #GroundZeroPak #ChildLabour #HumanRights #EndPoverty groundzero.pk/worlds-2025-pr…

Pakistan's security forces successfully foiled a major terror plot in South Waziristan after detecting and neutralizing an explosives-laden rickshaw intended for use in a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) attack. The timely operation prevented what could have been a devastating incident in the region. According to security sources, the vehicle had allegedly been planted by an Afghan TTP-linked terrorist and was packed with explosives. Acting on intelligence and operational vigilance, security personnel identified the threat before it could be activated or reach its intended target. The successful interception highlights the continued efforts of Pakistan's security forces to counter militant threats and safeguard civilian lives. Officials noted that the potential impact of the attack could have been severe, making the operation a significant success in ongoing counterterr0rism efforts.

Pakistan Army, represented by the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), achieved a major international milestone by securing 1st Position at the International Pace Sticking Competition 2026 held at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom. The competition brought together military teams from around the world, showcasing precision, discipline, and ceremonial excellence. The PMA contingent delivered an outstanding performance, winning all major honors at the event. In addition to the Overall Team Trophy, the Pakistani team also secured the Best Pace Sticker and Best Driver awards, completing a clean sweep of the competition. The 9-member delegation was led by Major Haider Gulzar, Adjutant of PMA. A total of 16 international teams participated in the annual contest, making the victory a significant achievement for Pakistan Army. The success reflects the high standards of professional training, discipline, and dedication upheld by the Armed Forces of Pakistan and highlights their excellence on the international stage.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived at CMH Peshawar and visited personnel of the Pakistan Army and Federal Constabulary who were injured while performing their duties. During the visit, he met the wounded officers and personnel individually and inquired about their health and recovery. The Interior Minister expressed solidarity with the injured personnel and acknowledged their sacrifices in the service of the nation. He appreciated their dedication, commitment, and professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities despite the challenges they face. Mohsin Naqvi particularly praised the high morale and strong sense of duty displayed by the injured Pakistan Army and FC personnel. He reiterated the government's support for the country's security forces and recognized their vital role in maintaining peace, stability, and national security.

Pakistan’s information technology and telecommunications sector recorded strong growth during fiscal year 2025-26, highlighted by a successful 5G spectrum auction that generated $509.6 million. The latest Economic Survey shows significant progress in digital connectivity, reflecting the country’s continued push toward technological advancement and broader internet access. Telecom infrastructure expanded considerably over the year, with cellular services now covering 92% of Pakistan’s population. Meanwhile, 3G and 4G networks reach more than 81% of the country’s geographical area. Broadband penetration climbed to 64.2%, nearly doubling from 32.6% in 2019, indicating growing internet adoption across urban and rural regions alike. The sector also delivered strong economic contributions. Telecom revenues reached Rs837 billion during the first nine months of FY2025-26, supported by investments totaling $567 million. The industry contributed Rs285 billion in taxes and duties to the national treasury, while total telecom subscriptions, including mobile and fixed-line users, rose to 207.22 million by March 2026

PAKISTAN BUDGET 2026-27: Stabilization or Survival? 📷 📷 ​The federal government has officially unveiled the fiscal roadmap for the upcoming year with a massive Rs 17.5 Trillion outlay. Presented by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, this budget comes at a critical turning point as Pakistan navigates complex geopolitical tensions, an energy crisis, and double-digit inflation. ​Swipe through our carousel for a breakdown of the numbers that will define our economy, trade, and pockets over the next 12 months. 📷

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Pakistan's Foreign Office has firmly rejected recent statements made by India regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), dismissing the remarks in their entirety. Officials said India's comments do not reflect the realities on the ground and reiterated Pakistan's position on the Kashmir dispute. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi drew a distinction between the situations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that IIOJK remains an internationally recognized disputed territory whose people have faced longstanding restrictions and have been denied their right to self-determination. In contrast, the spokesperson said issues arising in AJK are managed through democratic institutions and within the constitutional framework. He emphasized that the government continues to address public concerns through legal and representative mechanisms while maintaining its support for the rights of the Kashmiri people.

Pakistan’s first Hangor-class submarine, PNS Hangor, has arrived in Karachi, marking a significant development in the modernization of the Pakistan Navy’s fleet. The submarine was welcomed into Pakistani waters with an escort provided by Pakistan Naval Aviation. The arrival of PNS Hangor is part of a major defense agreement between Pakistan and China aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s maritime capabilities. Under the agreement, Pakistan is expected to receive a total of eight Hangor-class submarines to enhance its undersea warfare and deterrence capabilities. According to the plan, four submarines will be constructed in China, while the remaining four will be assembled in Pakistan, supporting local shipbuilding and technology transfer efforts. The Hangor-class program is considered one of the most important naval modernization projects in Pakistan’s history.

Funeral prayers were offered in Muzaffarabad for the officers and soldiers martyred in the Pakistan Army Aviation MI-17 helicopter crash that occurred during a flight on Wednesday. The helicopter reportedly crashed while carrying out operational duties, resulting in the loss of military personnel on board. The funeral ceremony was attended by the Acting President and Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the Rawalpindi Corps Commander, and senior civil and military officials. A smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army presented a guard of honor to the martyrs during the solemn ceremony. Special prayers were offered for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks and in recognition of their sacrifices for the nation. The bodies of the martyrs have been dispatched to their native areas, where they will be laid to rest with full military honors.

The number of forcibly displaced people worldwide declined for the first time in a decade in 2025, according to the UN refugee agency. At the end of the year, 117.8 million people remained displaced due to conflict, violence, and persecution, representing a decrease of 5.4 million compared to 2024. UNHCR said the decline was driven by a significant increase in the number of refugees and internally displaced people returning to their places of origin. In total, 14.7 million displaced individuals returned home during 2025, including 4.4 million refugees who crossed international borders back to their home countries. Despite the positive trend, the agency warned that global displacement levels remain unacceptably high. UNHCR stressed that many returns took place under difficult and often unstable conditions and called for stronger international efforts to reduce long-term displacement over the coming decade.

Pakistan's Foreign Office has said it is not surprised by reports that India has begun deploying nuclear warheads with operational forces, citing longstanding concerns over India's strategic military developments. The remarks came in response to findings by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), which suggested India may have deployed a limited number of nuclear warheads for the first time. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the report broadly supports concerns Pakistan has repeatedly raised regarding India's continued expansion of its strategic capabilities. He noted that open-source assessments may not fully reflect the actual size of India's nuclear arsenal and pointed to developments including sea-based nuclear platforms, missile canisterisation, and longer-range missile systems. Pakistan said it remains committed to maintaining strategic stability and is not interested in an arms race. However, officials stressed that evolving regional security dynamics require continued vigilance and measures aimed at deterring any potential aggression while preserving peace and stability in South Asia.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Thursday that any vessel approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be considered as “cooperating with the enemy.” The warning comes as tensions remain high in the Gulf following recent military confrontations involving Iran and the United States. The IRGC Navy said the strategically important waterway will remain closed until further notice and instructed vessels anchored in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman not to move. The statement signals a major escalation in maritime restrictions across one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes. Iran said the decision was taken in response to what it described as repeated US violations of the ceasefire. The latest warning has heightened concerns over global oil supplies, commercial shipping, and regional stability as international observers closely monitor developments in the Gulf.

Security forces killed two militants, including an Afghan national, during an intelligence-based operation in Mohmand district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to security sources. The operation was carried out as part of ongoing efforts to combat militancy in the region. Sources said the Afghan militant was found carrying an Afghan identity card, foreign currency, modern weapons, and a suicide vest. The individual was reportedly identified as "Umar Bilal" and was said to be a resident of Afghanistan's Khost province. The operation comes amid continued counter-terr0r campaigns across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where security forces have intensified actions against militant networks. Authorities say such operations are aimed at preventing potential att@cks and maintaining regional stability.

Pakistan's Foreign Office has reaffirmed its commitment to securing the release of 10 Pakistani crew members held by Somali pirates after the cargo vessel MT Honour 25 was hijacked near Somalia's Puntland region on April 21. The ship was carrying 17 crew members in total when it was seized, and the hostages have now spent nearly 50 days in captivity. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said Pakistan remains actively engaged with Somali authorities, the shipowner, and local stakeholders to secure the crew's release. He noted that Pakistan's embassy in Djibouti has dispatched teams to Mogadishu and that multiple inter-ministerial meetings have been held to coordinate efforts. Officials acknowledged the challenges involved in resolving the crisis due to the complex tribal dynamics in Somalia's semi-autonomous Puntland region. Despite the difficulties, the government says the case remains a top priority as families of the hostages continue to express concern over deteriorating conditions aboard the vessel.

Pakistan is no longer signaling restraint without response. A new counterterror doctrine is emerging based on intelligence-led strikes and clear red lines against terror sanctuaries. #Pakistan #CounterTerrorism #Security #GroundZeroPak groundzero.pk/the-red-line-h…

President Donald Trump says he “loves” inflation after new data showed US consumer prices rising above 4%, the fastest increase in three years. Trump argues prices will fall once the Iran war ends, while economists warn inflation risks may persist. #Trump #Inflation #IranWar

India has confirmed that three Indian sailors who were initially reported missing after a US military strike on the tanker MT Settebello off the coast of Oman have been found dead. The vessel was carrying a crew of Indian seafarers when it was struck during US operations targeting ships allegedly linked to Iranian oil shipments. According to Indian authorities, 21 crew members were rescued after the vessel issued a distress call reporting an engine fire. The US military said the strike targeted the tanker’s engine room after the vessel allegedly failed to comply with instructions and violated the ongoing blockade on Iranian-linked shipping. The incident has triggered a diplomatic response from New Delhi, with India summoning a senior US diplomat and demanding an end to attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian crew members. The development comes ahead of the G7 summit, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold talks with President Donald Trump.

MIDDLE EAST TENSIONS ESCALATE Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it launched drone and missile strikes targeting US military facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan in response to recent US strikes on Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian state media, the operation targeted the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, and an airbase in Azraq, Jordan. Tehran claims 21 military sites were targeted and alleges that four facilities were destroyed. Iran also says it shot down a US MQ-9 drone over the city of Jam. The reported attacks mark a significant escalation in regional tensions, with international attention focused on potential developments across the Middle East. #Iran #USA #MiddleEast