News for 'Islamabad'

Sikh couple shot dead in Pakistan gurdwara

Sikh couple shot dead in Pakistan gurdwara

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

A Sikh caretaker couple was tragically shot dead inside a gurdwara in Mardan, Pakistan. Police have launched an investigation, forming special teams and utilising forensic resources to identify the assailants. Local lawmaker Suresh Kumar has condemned the incident, expressed concerns over the handling of evidence, and demanded swift arrests, threatening protests if progress is not made within 24 hours.

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday, Strait of Hormuz 'open to all'

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday, Strait of Hormuz 'open to all'

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump announced that a deal to end the war with Iran would be signed on Sunday, with the strategic Strait of Hormuz immediately becoming 'open to all'. This follows indications from Pakistan that negotiations were in their final stages, though Iran has yet to comment on the timeline.

US-Iran peace deal on track, negotiators are in Switzerland: Vance

US-Iran peace deal on track, negotiators are in Switzerland: Vance

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

US Vice President J D Vance confirmed that peace talks with Iran are underway in Switzerland, with negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner already present. Vance plans to join soon, expressing confidence in the US's strong negotiating position despite a delay caused by recent Israel-Lebanon firing.

India Slams Pakistan At UN, Calls It 'Frankenstein State'

India Slams Pakistan At UN, Calls It 'Frankenstein State'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

India strongly criticised Pakistan at the United Nations, labelling it a "Frankenstein state" for its alleged support of terrorism. The remarks came after Pakistan and the OIC raised the Kashmir issue, which India firmly rejected, reiterating Jammu and Kashmir's integral status. India also deemed the Indus Water Treaty "outdated" given Pakistan's policies.

Iran shuts Strait of Hormuz again over ceasefire violations

Iran shuts Strait of Hormuz again over ceasefire violations

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israel's continued strikes in Lebanon and alleged violations of a ceasefire agreement. This move comes as both Israel and Hezbollah accuse each other of breaching the truce, with casualties rising in southern Lebanon.

US, Iran launch high-stakes peace talks in Switzerland

US, Iran launch high-stakes peace talks in Switzerland

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Top leaders from the US, Iran, and Pakistan, along with other nations, have gathered in Switzerland for high-level talks aimed at restoring peace in West Asia. These negotiations follow a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran, initiating a 60-day window for a deal. Discussions focus on Iran's nuclear programme and the fragile interim peace deal, amidst renewed tensions and the fluctuating status of the Strait of Hormuz.

US, Iran ink MoU to end hostilities, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US, Iran ink MoU to end hostilities, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

United States President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have virtually signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and begin a 60-day negotiation process on sanctions and Iran's nuclear programme.

Pakistan PM: US-Iran peace deal 'on verge of finalisation' within 24 hours

Pakistan PM: US-Iran peace deal 'on verge of finalisation' within 24 hours

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that a US-Iran peace deal is on the verge of finalisation, potentially within the next 24 hours, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough after months of intense negotiations.

31 killed, 169 hurt in suicide attack at Shia mosque in Islamabad

31 killed, 169 hurt in suicide attack at Shia mosque in Islamabad

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

The attack came less than three months after a suicide bomber killed 12 people in a blast outside a district and sessions court building in Islamabad.

Pakistan boosts defence spending by 17.6% in new Budget

Pakistan boosts defence spending by 17.6% in new Budget

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Pakistan has increased its defence budget by 17.6 per cent to PKRs 3,000 billion for the upcoming fiscal year, as announced by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. The federal budget, estimated at PKRs 18,771 billion, targets 4 per cent GDP growth, with significant allocations for debt service and pensions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted economic stability and ongoing discussions with the IMF, while the opposition protested Imran Khan's incarceration during the budget session.

How will you sit with...: Pak snubs Trump's Abraham Accords push

How will you sit with...: Pak snubs Trump's Abraham Accords push

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Donald Trump asked countries involved in the peace talks with Iran to sign on to the Abraham Accords, which deal with establishing diplomatic, economic and security ties between Israel and Arab nations.

US to close consulate in Pak's Peshawar citing personnel's safety

US to close consulate in Pak's Peshawar citing personnel's safety

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The State Department spokesperson said the US will continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance the interests of the American people.

Deaths reported in crack down on protesters in PoJK

Deaths reported in crack down on protesters in PoJK

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Tensions are escalating in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following violent clashes between Pakistani security forces and protestors, resulting in civilian deaths and a communications blackout. The situation has drawn international condemnation, with over 50 British Parliament members expressing concern and a former Indian police chief criticising Pakistan's actions.

Will Pakistan rethink its Israel policy after Rubio talks?

Will Pakistan rethink its Israel policy after Rubio talks?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar amid American demand that countries mediating the peace talks with Iran join the Abraham Accords and establish diplomatic and economic ties with Israel.

Pulwama attack kingpin Hamza Burhan shot dead by unknown gunmen in PoK

Pulwama attack kingpin Hamza Burhan shot dead by unknown gunmen in PoK

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Hamza Burhan, a key suspect in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, was killed in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Burhan, a commander of the Al Badr terror group, had been living undercover as a teacher in PoK.

Pak PM praises Trump, says 'forever grateful' for brokering ceasefire with India

Pak PM praises Trump, says 'forever grateful' for brokering ceasefire with India

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed 'forever grateful' to US President Donald Trump for his 'timely' intervention in securing a ceasefire with India following a military conflict last year, a claim India has consistently rejected.

Tension escalates as US shoots down two Iranian attack drones in Hormuz

Tension escalates as US shoots down two Iranian attack drones in Hormuz

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

The United States military has intercepted and destroyed two Iranian attack drones that posed an immediate hazard to commercial shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, according to an official statement by the US Central Command late Saturday.

Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghanistan a violation of sovereignty, India tells UN

Pakistan's airstrikes on Afghanistan a violation of sovereignty, India tells UN

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

India has strongly condemned Pakistan's military airstrikes against Afghanistan, citing significant civilian casualties, and criticised its 'trade and transit terrorism' against Afghan traders, calling these actions blatant violations of international law and UN norms.

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

A source familiar with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's thinking revealed on Saturday that the department "intends to utilise all available authorities to make Iranian assets accessible for rebuilding and repair efforts related to any future damage inflicted by Iran."

Araghchi meets Munir in Pak, Iran says no talks planned with US

Araghchi meets Munir in Pak, Iran says no talks planned with US

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Iran's Foreign Ministry has denied reports of planned talks with the United States during a visit to Islamabad, Pakistan, despite US envoys also visiting the region.

India-Pak truce a favour to Sharif, Munir: Trump repeats mediation claims

India-Pak truce a favour to Sharif, Munir: Trump repeats mediation claims

Rediff.com16 May 2026

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the 'ceasefire' that he got done between India and Pakistan was a favour to their army chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Indian Navy's Submarine Shortfall Dilemma

Indian Navy's Submarine Shortfall Dilemma

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Experts' worries intensified after Pakistan commissioned its first Chinese-built Hangor-class submarine, PNS Hangor, last month.

'Unwarranted': India rejects Kashmir mention in China-Pak statement

'Unwarranted': India rejects Kashmir mention in China-Pak statement

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The joint statement was issued during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent visit to China.

US-Iran agreement nears finalisation: Report

US-Iran agreement nears finalisation: Report

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The United States and Iran could be set to announce an agreement soon to achieve a complete solution to the hostilities in West Asia, as reported by Saudi state media Al Arabiya on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations.

India Accuses Pakistan Of Genocide At United Nations

India Accuses Pakistan Of Genocide At United Nations

Rediff.com21 May 2026

India has strongly criticised Pakistan at the UN Security Council, highlighting civilian deaths and injuries in Afghanistan caused by cross-border violence by Pakistani military forces, accusing Pakistan of 'heinous acts' and 'systematic genocide'.

Iran's Abbas Araghchi lands in Pak again amid uncertainty over US talks

Iran's Abbas Araghchi lands in Pak again amid uncertainty over US talks

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Pakistan for the second time in three days amid uncertainty surrounding potential peace talks with the US. The visit follows discussions in Oman regarding regional security and efforts to resolve the Iran-US conflict.

Five Terrorists Killed In Pakistan Security Operation

Five Terrorists Killed In Pakistan Security Operation

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Security forces in Pakistan have killed five terrorists in intelligence-based operations in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, following an attack on a police checkpost that resulted in the deaths of 15 security officials.

270 Taliban, 12 Pak soldiers killed as Islamabad declares open war on Kabul

270 Taliban, 12 Pak soldiers killed as Islamabad declares open war on Kabul

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

Pakistan launched a retaliatory operation, 'Ghazab lil Haq,' against the Afghan Taliban following alleged border attacks, resulting in reported casualties and destruction of Taliban infrastructure.

Imran Khan Appeals For Release Due To Health Issues

Imran Khan Appeals For Release Due To Health Issues

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan has appealed to the Islamabad High Court for release on humanitarian grounds, citing deteriorating health and prolonged solitary confinement. The appeal was made during a hearing regarding his conviction in a corruption case.

Vance heads to Pak as ceasefire deadline nears; Iran yet to confirm

Vance heads to Pak as ceasefire deadline nears; Iran yet to confirm

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

US Vice President J D Vance is expected to travel to Islamabad for peace talks with Iran to end the seven-week war, amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing tensions.

No Iranian delegation has left for Pakistan yet: Report

No Iranian delegation has left for Pakistan yet: Report

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Iran's state broadcaster denies sending a diplomatic delegation to Pakistan for talks with the US, despite reports suggesting otherwise. This denial comes amid escalating tensions and aggressive rhetoric from Washington, even as signs of potential diplomatic movement emerge.

Iran refuses to send delegation for peace talks in Pakistan

Iran refuses to send delegation for peace talks in Pakistan

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Iran has denied sending a delegation to Islamabad for peace talks with the United States, contradicting Pakistan's claims of mediating the negotiations. The denial highlights a lack of confidence in Pakistan's ability to ensure security for high-level participants and underscores the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran.

Why Pakistan Cricket Board Banned Muzarabani Despite No Contract

Why Pakistan Cricket Board Banned Muzarabani Despite No Contract

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board has defended its decision to ban Blessing Muzarabani from the Pakistan Super League for two years, despite admitting that no formal contract was ever sent to the Zimbabwean pacer.

If Pak wants to be part of geography...: Army chief's stern warning

If Pak wants to be part of geography...: Army chief's stern warning

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that if it continues to harbour terrorists and operate against India, it risks becoming 'history'. The remarks were made during an interactive session, days after the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, which involved precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.

Draft US-Iran truce deal eyes Hormuz reopening, American troop pullback

Draft US-Iran truce deal eyes Hormuz reopening, American troop pullback

Rediff.com27 May 2026

As tensions in the Middle East approach a critical juncture, reports have surfaced regarding a draft memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict, Iranian state media reported on Wednesday.

How Muhammad Shoaib Ended Pakistan's 20-Year Wait For A Tennis Title

How Muhammad Shoaib Ended Pakistan's 20-Year Wait For A Tennis Title

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Muhammad Shoaib overcame immense challenges to win an ITF Futures title in Islamabad, ending Pakistan's 20-year wait for a singles title in international tennis.

The Gulf War: Prem Panicker's Must Read Blog!

The Gulf War: Prem Panicker's Must Read Blog!

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Prem Panicker's Must Read Blog On The Gulf War.

Iran FM arrives in Russia, calls his Pak visit 'very productive'

Iran FM arrives in Russia, calls his Pak visit 'very productive'

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his trip to Islamabad was "very productive" and involved "good consultations" with Pakistan's top leadership amid uncertainty over the second round of peace talks to resolve the war in West Asia.

38 ships turned back as US tightens Iran blockade; Tehran rushes to Moscow

38 ships turned back as US tightens Iran blockade; Tehran rushes to Moscow

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that American forces are maintaining a strict maritime restrictive operation in the region, continuing to enforce a blockade against Iranian ports.

Pak parked Iran jets on its airbases to escape US airstrikes: Report

Pak parked Iran jets on its airbases to escape US airstrikes: Report

Rediff.com12 May 2026

A new report alleges Pakistan shielded Iranian military aircraft from potential US airstrikes, raising questions about its role as a neutral mediator in the ongoing US-Iran tensions.