(1–15 April 2025)

Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK)

1. A passer-by named Zahid Qureshi was killed, and two police constables were injured during an exchange of fire between police and suspected terrorists in Bagh district. The encounter followed the arrest of Muiz from Rawalakot, a member of a gang led by Zarnosh, allegedly involved in the killing of Constable Sajjad Resham last year. The group is believed to have links with terrorists operating from Afghanistan. Zahid’s death sparked outrage among locals who demanded an independent inquiry to determine the source of the fatal bullet (11.4.25).

Balochistan

1. Security forces killed two terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Buleda, Kech district (4.4.25).
2. CTD recovered 50 kg of high-grade explosives, a 20 kg IED, five grenades, and three 9mm pistols near Radio Pakistan Tower, Sariab Road, Quetta (5.4.25).
3. Armed motorcyclists killed ex-police officer Muhammad Rafiq and a civilian, Abdul Waheed, in Kalat city (7.4.25).
4. Police recovered three unidentified bodies along with magazines and flags of a banned organization from Samand Khan Goji riverbed in Barkhan (7.4.25).
5. Three policemen including Sub-Inspector Abdul Wali were martyred, and another injured in a targeted attack on their mobile van on Sariab Road, Quetta (9.4.25).
6. A remote-controlled IED blast targeted a police truck near Khand Mehssori, Mastung, killing three constables and injuring 19 others (12.4.25).
7. One person was injured in a grenade attack on a police station in Kachi Baig, Quetta (13.4.25).
8. Security forces foiled twin attacks on FC and Levies checkposts in Noshki, killing two terrorists. One FC soldier embraced martyrdom during the exchange of fire (14.4.25).

Islamabad

1. A fire broke out at Serena Hotel during maintenance. The emergency response system was activated, and the fire was contained without evacuation or casualties (11.4.25).

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)

1. Major anti-terror operations in D.I. Khan, Kohat, and North Waziristan killed at least 17 militants including high-value targets.
2. Security forces foiled infiltration attempts and multiple attacks across South Waziristan, Shangla, and Lakki Marwat.
3. Civilians and religious scholars were targeted in multiple shootings in Peshawar, Dir, and Kohat.
4. 979 militant bunkers were demolished in Kurram district under the Kohat Peace Jirga accord (14.4.25). Numerous arrests and CTD operations thwarted terrorist attacks, recovered explosives, and neutralized key suspects across the province.
5. Security forces while thwarting a terrorist infiltration attempt along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border killed eight terrorists and injured four others in Hassan Khel area of North Wazirstan district (5/6.4.25)
6. Security forces in an IBO killed nine terrorists including their commander, Shereen a high value target in Takwara area of Dera Ismail Khan district. The slain commander was wanted in the in the several cases of terrorist attacks including martyrdom of Captain Husnain Akhtar in the month of March (6/7.4.25).
7. One Fazal Bari, a bother of local JUI-F leader was shot dead in Sarband area of Peshawar (6.4.25).
8.  A policeman, Asif was injured in a targeted attack b armed men in the township area of Bannu (6.4.25).
9. Two men namely Numanul Hassan and Ashfaq were kidnapped by the unknown armed persons while their two other friends managed to escape in Speena Tangi area of Bannu district (6.4.25).
10. A Polio vaccination Officer Jan Muhammad was abducted by the armed men in Birmil tehsil of South Wazirstan district (6.4.25).
11. Unknown assailants shot dead a religious scholar named Qani Ijaz and injured another on Dora Road of Peshawar (7.4.25).
12. Armed motorcyclists killed a person identified as Maazullah and injured another in a targeted attack on their car on Jamrud bypass in Peshawar district (7.4.25).
13. Unknown miscreants set on fire a tower of a private cellular internet company in Kari Kot area of Wana tehsil in South Wazirstan district (9.4.25).
14. Miscreants blew up a house with explosive in Michenkhel area of Lakki Marwat city. No loss of human life was reported (10.4.25).
15. A huge fire destroyed a garment store at the main Lorry Adda in Lakki Marwat city (10.4.25).
16. Two children were killed and another injured in a blast when they started playing with an explosive device in the vicinity of Sheikhan area of Kohat (10.4.25).
17. Unidentified armed men opened fire on a Peshawar bound passenger van resulted killing of one person identified as Hazir Rehman and injuring two others in Dir district (10.4.25).
18. Saqibullah Afraidi a well known banker of Jamrud was shot dead by unknown armed assailants in the Nasir Bagh area of Peshawar (10.4.25).
19. Police foiled a major terror plot by arresting three suspected terrorists identified as Muhammad Ishaq, Masai Khan @ Amir and Ubaidullah in Umarzai area of Charsada district and recovered arms, ammunition and explosive from their possession (10.4.25).
20. Security forces in an IBO reportedly killed two terrorists including a high value target commander Hafizullah @ Kochwan having head money of 10 million rupees in Timergara of Lower Dir district (10/11.4.25).
21. Police thwarted a terrorist attackon a check post in Shekolai area of Shanghla district (11.4.25).
22. Police rescued a young man named Amir Nawaz from the captivity of his copters and arrested three suspected persons during a tip-off raid in Peshawar. He was kidnapped from Pindigheb area of Attock district over a financial dispute (11.4.25).
23. Police Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) defused a remote controlled IED planted by the miscreants under the Kot Kashmir Bridge in Serai Gambila town of Lakki Marwat district (11.4.25).
24. Two personnel of the Excise, Taxation and z narcotic Control Department were martyred and another was injured when unidentified armed men opened fire on them on GT Road in Nowshera district 12.4.25).
25. Police, security forces supported by armed villagers killed three terrorists out of 20/25 during exchange of fire in Khankhel Mandozai area of Lakki Marwat district (13.4.25).
26. Two police Constables, Hameed Shah Dotani and Ashraf Dotani who were kidnapped by the terrorists in the Deeb village, Toi Khullah tehsil of South Wazirstan have reportedly been martyred. Notables mentioned that before their abduction a gun fight between police and terrorist also took place yesterday in which three terrorist had been killed (14.4.25).
27. It is learned through media reports that 979 bunkers built by the rival groups have been completely demolished by the administration in Kurram district following an agreement under Kohat Peace Jirga signed on 1st January, 2025. The next step under the agreement is being planned to began gradual disarmament process by handing over weapons to the government by the individuals and groups. In addition to that protection of the roads and routs to Tal-Parachinar road, Bagan and other areas in the district as well as steps for supply of daily commodities and relief assistance are also being made(14.4.25).

Punjab

1. Police rescued a kidnapped student and arrested five suspects in Sahiwal (5.4.25).
2. A kidnapped landlord was safely recovered from D.G. Khan’s Kacha area (7.4.25).
3. A protest over Gaza escalated in DHA Lahore; a fast-food outlet was vandalized. Arrests followed (10.4.25).
4. CTD arrested 10 suspected terrorists linked to banned outfits TTP and Al-Zanbiyon in raids across Punjab (14.4.25).
5. Armed men torched road construction machinery and abducted two drivers near the Punjab-KPK border in Tunsa tehsil. Tribal elders plan to convene a grand jirga (14.4.25).

Sindh

1. JWP leader Abdul Sattar Bugti was killed, and his son injured in a targeted attack in Steel Town, Karachi (5.4.25).
2. A policeman shot dead two robbers during a foiled restaurant heist in Karachi (5.4.25).
3. Two dacoits were killed in a police encounter in Hyderabad; one officer injured (5.4.25).
4. CTD and Rangers arrested three terrorists affiliated with Hafiz Gul Bahadur group (6.4.25).
5. CTD arrested a TTP-linked terrorist from Lee Market, Karachi (8.4.25).
6. Anti-Israel protests turned violent; fast-food chains attacked in Karachi and Mirpur Khas. Dozens of TLP activists were arrested (9.4.25).
7. An alleged plot targeting Masroor Airbase was reportedly foiled by intelligence agencies; no official statement released (10.4.25).
8. A police constable was martyred by armed bikers in Karachi; his weapon was taken (13.4.25).

Comments & Analysis: Security forces remain actively engaged in operations across Pakistan, neutralizing threats and preempting terror plots. However, banned organizations such as TTP, BLA, BLF, and BNP, often in coordination with local criminal elements, continue attacks on state forces and civilians.

Foreign support—particularly from hostile regional actors—and the unchecked operations of militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan remain central concerns. The hybrid warfare strategy adopted by adversaries is evident, warranting continuous vigilance.

Two analytical articles titled “Of Diversions and Lines” and “The Other Side of the Tunnel” by Tariq Lodhi were published on strategicbrief.com (9 April 2025), offering critical insight into these emerging threats.

DEFENCE AND SECURITY

1. 268th Corps Commanders’ Conference at GHQ

The 268th Corps Commanders’ Conference, chaired by COAS General Syed Asim Munir at GHQ Rawalpindi, began with a tribute and Fatiha for the martyrs of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies, and citizens who sacrificed their lives for national peace and stability.
The forum received a comprehensive briefing on the regional and internal security landscape and reaffirmed its resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms, pledging to act decisively against those supporting hostile agendas. It reiterated that no one would be allowed to disrupt peace in Balochistan and vowed to foil foreign-sponsored disruptive efforts with the support of the local population.
The COAS emphasized the rapid implementation of Vision Azm-e-Istehkam under the National Action Plan and reaffirmed army support for curbing illicit economic activities linked to terror financing.
The forum condemned human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, while reaffirming Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri cause. It also expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine and denounced war crimes in Gaza.
The COAS concluded the session by directing field commanders to ensure operational readiness, professional excellence, and peak combat preparedness. (4.4.25)

2. PAF Chief Visits China

Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force (PAF), during his visit to China, held meetings with Chinese Minister of National Defence Admiral Dong Jun, General Chang Dinggu (PLA Air Force Commander), Major General Cao Xiaojian, and other senior officials.
During these meetings, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to revitalizing bilateral military cooperation and strengthening the strategic alliance between Pakistan and China. (11.4.25)

3. Command and Staff Conference at Naval HQ, Islamabad

The Command and Staff Conference of the Pakistan Navy was held under the chairmanship of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf at Naval HQ, Islamabad.
The forum reviewed the changing regional security dynamics and Pakistan Navy’s operational preparedness in light of the geo-strategic environment. The Naval Chief emphasized maintaining high levels of readiness to effectively respond to evolving maritime security threats. (11.4.25)

4. US Congressional Delegation Meets COAS at GHQ

A U.S. Congressional delegation led by Honourable Jack Bergman, along with Honourable Thomas Suozzi and Honourable Jonathan Jackson, met with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to discuss regional security and defence cooperation.
Both sides reaffirmed the importance of bilateral engagement based on mutual respect and strategic interests.
The U.S. lawmakers lauded the Pakistan Armed Forces for their role in combating terrorism and acknowledged Pakistan’s contributions to regional peace. They also expressed a strong commitment to enhancing cooperation in security, trade, investment, and economic development.
Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed for collaboration in IT training. (13.4.25)

5. Opening Ceremony of the 3rd Pak-Morocco Joint Military Exercise – 2025

The opening ceremony of the 3rd Pak-Morocco Joint Bilateral Military Exercise – 2025 was held at the Special Operations School, Cherat.
The exercise, focusing on counter-terrorism, includes participation from Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) and the Moroccan Army’s Special Forces.
The Commandant of the Special Operations School graced the event as Chief Guest.
The exercise aims to enhance professional skills, promote joint training, and strengthen longstanding military-to-military ties by enabling troops to share operational experiences and expertise. (14.4.25)

6. Opening Ceremony of the 8th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit Exercise – 2025

The opening ceremony of the 8th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit Exercise – 2025 was held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Pabbi.
The 60-hour-long patrol-based exercise was inaugurated by the Director General Military Training and is designed to enhance international military cooperation in a complex global security environment.
Twenty friendly countries, including Pakistan, China, the USA, and Saudi Arabia, are participating, while others such as Germany, Bangladesh, and South Africa are attending as observers.
The exercise tests physical endurance, mental agility, and tactical skill through simulated real-time scenarios, fostering interoperability, teamwork, and the exchange of best practices. (14.4.25)

7. Pakistan Navy Inducts Fourth Offshore Patrol Vessel PNS Yamama

The Pakistan Navy formally inducted its fourth Offshore Patrol Vessel, PNS Yamama, during a prestigious ceremony held at Jinnah Naval Base, Ormara, with Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf as Chief Guest.
Constructed at Damen Shipyard, Romania, the vessel features advanced stealth capabilities, state-of-the-art command and control systems, and modern weapons and sensors.
The induction of PNS Yamama enhances the Pakistan Navy’s maritime security and its ability to safeguard vital sea lines of communication, particularly on the country’s western seaboard, promoting regional stability. (14.4.25)

DIPLOMATIC DEVELOPMENT / SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

SUPARCO Announces Two Merit-Based Astronauts for Training in China

1. Pakistan is set to make history as its first astronaut prepares for a mission to the Chinese Space Station (CSS). Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) Director Dr. Shafaat Ali announced that two merit-based astronauts will be trained in China, making Pakistan the first foreign country to join China’s space station training program.
   Candidates will be selected through a rigorous three-stage process, including PhD holders, experienced pilots, and physically fit graduates. The mission, expected by 2026, will conduct scientific experiments in fields such as biology, medicine, physics, aerospace, and material sciences.
   SUPARCO has called for public proposals for experiments in the CSS’s unique space environment. The CSS orbits Earth every 92 minutes at an altitude of 380 km and a speed of 7.7 km/sec. This opportunity highlights strong Pakistan–China ties and marks a major step forward in Pakistan’s space journey. (5.4.25)

Deportation of illegal Afghan Nationals

• The Government of Pakistan is moving ahead with its plan to repatriate Afghan Citizenship Card holders, following the March 31 deadline for voluntary return. Around 15,000 Afghan individuals or families have been repatriated as of April 14.
   Despite appeals from humanitarian organizations such as UNHCR, Islamabad has taken a firm stance. The Foreign Office reminded critics that Pakistan is not a signatory to the Refugee Convention and has hosted Afghan nationals out of goodwill.
  While UNHCR insists Afghan refugees have become part of Pakistan’s social fabric, policymakers increasingly view them as outsiders and potential security threats.
  The government has ensured humane and respectful treatment of all deportees. Local mafias and certain corrupt officials in their previous residential and workplace areas must not be allowed to exploit the situation by acquiring their properties and valuables at extremely low prices or making false payment promises (6 & 14.4.25).

Pakistan’s Special Envoy Warns Afghanistan on TTP Links; Afghan FM Meets Pakistani Envoy

• Pakistani Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq, warned that if terrorism-related concerns are not addressed, all bilateral agreements with Afghanistan will be cancelled. He urged the Afghan government to cooperate and resolve the issue, stating that without collaboration, no progress or implementation would be possible. He emphasized that Pakistan could be a valuable partner to Afghanistan if terrorism is effectively addressed.
  While the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has not issued an official response, Deputy Spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat stated after a cabinet meeting that Kabul remains committed to strong bilateral ties with Islamabad. He highlighted religious, historical, and cultural bonds between the two countries.
  Despite such statements and optimistic narratives, the dispute has escalated into hostility over core issues, including the IEA’s continued support for the banned TTP and other militant groups operating from Afghan territory, construction of outposts by the Taliban near the border, and armed clashes in disputed areas.
  These matters need resolution through sustained and effective diplomatic negotiations.
  Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met with Obaidur Rehman Nizamani, the Acting Pakistani Ambassador in Kabul, on April 14, 2025. According to TOLO News, he described the mistreatment of Afghan migrants as alarming and harmful to bilateral relations. (8 & 14.4.25)

U.S. Discusses Cooperation in Pakistan’s Critical Mineral Resources

• The United States has shown strategic interest in Pakistan’s mineral sector, aiming to enhance bilateral cooperation in this vital domain.
  A high-level U.S. delegation led by Eric Meyer, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, visited Pakistan following the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum — a major event aimed at attracting global investment.
  The forum showcased Pakistan’s vast mineral reserves, including copper, gold, and lithium. U.S. officials praised Pakistan’s investor-friendly policies and improving investment climate, expressing confidence in Islamabad’s commitment to foreign investment.
  Eric Meyer noted that mineral development is a shared strategic interest. Beyond minerals, discussions also focused on regional security and global political trends.
  Both sides emphasized expanding cooperation through B2B (Business-to-Business), G2G (Government-to-Government), and P2P (People-to-People) frameworks.
  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the potential of the mineral sector to stabilize the economy and reduce reliance on foreign loans.
  The U.S. delegation also met with COAS General Syed Asim Munir at GHQ on April 9, where he assured robust security for international investors.
  Companies like Barrick Gold have already signed significant mining deals in Pakistan. Delegations from the U.S., China, Saudi Arabia, and others attended the forum.
  U.S. Secretary of State Marco Robin and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also discussed reciprocal tariffs, trade, immigration, and cooperation in mineral exploration (7.4.25).

REGIONAL: AFGHANISTAN

Law and Order / Security Developments

A powerful explosion occurred at the Police Command Headquarters in Kandahar, injuring four Taliban guards. The blast was reportedly caused by old ammunition stored in a container.
Meanwhile, seven individuals were publicly punished for crimes including illicit relations and robbery in Farah and Ghazni provinces.
In another incident, four individuals were publicly executed for murder in Badghis, Farah, and Nimroz provinces on the orders of the IEA Supreme Court.
Earlier, Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi (on February 7 in Kabul) dismissed reports of internal rifts within the IEA, stating that all members are united “like brothers” and that national security prevails in all 34 provinces. He emphasized that opposition forces control no territory and that thousands of villages remain peaceful.
He also highlighted foreign policy achievements, claiming that the Islamic Emirate now maintains 41 active political missions worldwide. (7, 9 & 10.4.25)

IEA Denies Reports of U.S. C-17 Aircraft Landing at Bagram Airbase

IEA Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid denied social media reports suggesting that a U.S. C-17 aircraft had landed at Bagram Airbase. He labeled the reports as “propaganda,” affirming that no foreign military presence would be allowed in Afghanistan and that the Taliban’s stance on sovereignty is unchanged.
These comments responded to online speculation of renewed U.S. activity at the strategic base.
According to Ariana News, U.S. authorities also denied the claim. CIA Director of Public Affairs Liz Lyon further clarified that the agency’s Deputy Director Michael Ellis had not traveled to Bagram. (8 & 11.4.25)
Since the U.S. troop withdrawal in 2021, Bagram’s future has remained a focal point in regional security discussions.
Bagram, initially constructed by the Soviets in the 1950s and later expanded by the U.S., became one of the world’s largest airbases. Located 40–50 km northeast of Kabul, it features long runways capable of handling military and civilian aircraft and served as a hub for NATO operations during the 20-year Afghan war. (12.4.25)

Comments & Analysis: The mutual dismissal of Bagram-related rumors by both the IEA and U.S. officials has momentarily ended speculation about foreign military redeployment in Afghanistan.
Optimists suggest that recent diplomatic gestures may lead to improved Afghanistan–U.S. relations, potentially paving the way for an inclusive government, stronger human rights protections (especially for women), and control of cross-border terrorism.
However, analysts warn that any shift in Bagram’s status could have regional implications — especially for neighboring powers such as China, Iran, Russia, and Pakistan — given the sensitive balance of global power dynamics in the region.

ILLEGAL INDIAN OCCUPIED JAMMU AND KASHMIR (IIOJK) / LOC

Indian Army Chief and Home Minister visit to IIOJK and LOC

 Chief of Indian Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi visited forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir to assess the prevailing security situation and overall operational preparedness. He was briefed on the situation by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 15 Corps, Lt General Prashant Srivastava. The COAS interacted with Formation Commanders, discussed wide-ranging issues, and commended all ranks for their unwavering commitment, operational readiness, and professionalism. While underscoring the importance of technological advancement in modern warfare, the Army Chief stressed the need for integrating cutting-edge technology into day-to-day operations to enhance surveillance, intelligence-gathering, and response capabilities in countering both existing and emerging security threats along the LoC. He reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining peace in Jammu & Kashmir while ensuring a robust counter-terrorism posture (8.4.25).  

INDIA

Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s Visit to IIOJK

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during his three-day visit to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), chaired a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar, reaffirming the central government’s commitment to establishing lasting peace by eradicating terrorism under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s zero-tolerance policy.

The meeting was attended by the IIOJK Governor, Director IB, Chief of Army Staff, GOC Northern Command, Chief Secretary, DGP, and heads of the Central Armed Police Forces along with other senior officials. Shah praised the efforts of security agencies, claiming that sustained and coordinated actions have crippled the terror ecosystem in Kashmir.

Earlier, he met with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and visited forward posts along the LoC in Kathua district, where he announced the deployment of an electronic surveillance system to detect and dismantle cross-border infiltration.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, 26 technology-related initiatives — including anti-drone and tunnel detection systems — are currently under testing. Later, at a media summit in New Delhi, Amit Shah falsely claimed that India’s position on the Pakistan-administered part of Jammu and Kashmir is not just a claim but a legal stance backed by historical documents and evidence. He reiterated that India does not support insurgency or separatist movements in Balochistan, alleging that Pakistan has failed to resolve its internal issues and should focus on problems such as Balochistan. (8–10.4.25)

Three Kashmiri Youth, JCO, and Soldier Killed in IIOJK

During Indian security forces’ so-called anti-militancy drive, three Kashmiri youth, including Saifullah, were martyred in fake encounters in the Chhatru forest area of Kishtwar district (9.4.25).

Indian forces also reported that JCO Subedar Kuldeep Chand was killed during an encounter along the LoC in Keri Bhattal area and blamed Pakistan. In the same region, on 11 February, two army personnel, including a captain, were killed in an IED blast.

Separately, soldier Naik Surender Kumar died when a UAV lost control during landing and caused a fire at Jammu Airport (12.4.25).

There have been five encounters in 19 days across Kathua, Udhampur, and Kishtwar districts — with youth killed and Pakistan blamed — just two days after a flag meeting in Poonch (9, 11, and 13.4.25).

Comments & Analysis: Following the revocation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution in August 2019, the BJP-led government under Prime Minister Modi removed IIOJK’s special status. It was divided into two union territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh — aiming to tighten central control and deny Kashmiris the right to self-determination, still pending at the UN Security Council.

Elections were held only in Jammu & Kashmir, with the National Conference–Congress alliance winning and Omar Abdullah becoming Chief Minister. However, real power remains with Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha and the Home Ministry.

With Hurriyat leaders jailed or inactive, and groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and JKLF banned, there is no effective opposition. Kashmiri youth continue to be martyred or arrested under false charges during crackdowns.

India continues to accuse Pakistan of terrorism to bolster its Hindutva ideology and deflect criticism. Recently, three separatist groups disassociated from Hurriyat, and other factions either remain banned or exist only on paper — signaling increasing Indian control and the use of false flag operations to malign Pakistan.

Indian Naval and Military Developments

1. INS Varsha and Karwar Naval Base Expansion
India is preparing to operationalize two major naval projects — INS Varsha and the Karwar naval base.

INS Varsha, a strategic base for India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, is located near Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh and is expected to be operational by 2026. Located 50 km south of Visakhapatnam, it includes underground pens, tunnel systems, and harbor facilities that enhance survivability and enable access to deep waters with minimal detection.

The facility is designed to safeguard India’s second-strike capability in case of a counterforce attack.

Simultaneously, expansion under Project Sea Bird at Karwar on the western coast continues. Once completed, it will host 50 warships/submarines and 40 auxiliary vessels. The base will include a dual-use air station, dry docks, and a new dockyard, positioning India as an emerging blue water navy. (7.4.25)

2. SWAC Chief’s Visit to Pune Air Base
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, AOC-in-C of the Indian Air Force’s South Western Command, visited Air Force Station Lohegaon in Pune for an operational review.

The visit included evaluations of fighter squadrons, missile units, radar systems, logistics, and strategic installations in the western sector bordering Pakistan. SWAC headquarters is based in Gandhinagar and oversees bases at Bhuj, Jaisalmer, Phalodi, Naliya, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Uttarlai/Barmer, and Pune (11.4.25).

3. Recent Military Exercises

• INDRA-2025 (India-Russia Naval Exercise): Held off the Chennai coast (28 March – 2 April)
• INIOCHOS-25: Indian Air Force participated in the multinational exercise hosted by Greece (31 March – 11 April)
• Tiger Triumph: India–U.S. joint amphibious military exercise, focusing on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, conducted at Kakinada Beach (13.4.25)

4. Tahawwur Rana Extradition from USA
A 64-year-old Canadian citizen, Tahawwur Rana, was extradited from the U.S. to India by the NIA via a special aircraft and remanded for 18 days. He is accused of assisting the 2008 Mumbai attacks alongside David Headley.

The extradition follows years of diplomatic effort by the BJP-led government. Indian officials and media continue to accuse Pakistan of complicity in the attacks, which Pakistan has consistently rejected as baseless. Such anti-Pakistan rhetoric may escalate in coming weeks (11.4.25).

5. Anticipated U.S. Diplomatic Visit
U.S. Vice President JD Vance and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz are expected to visit India later this month. This visit follows Prime Minister Modi’s February meeting with President Trump and may finalize a bilateral trade deal, including cooperation in critical technologies (12.4.25).

IRAN

1. Eight Pakistani Workers Murdered in Sistan-Baluchistan
Eight Pakistani workers from a vehicle repair workshop were shot dead in Meherstan, Sistan-Baluchistan province. All hailed from Bahawalpur, Punjab — five were from the same family: Dilshad, Muhammad Naeem, Ghulam Jaffar, Danish, Nasir, Amir, Malik Jamshed, and Muhammad Khalid.

The banned group Balochistan National Army (BNA) claimed responsibility. Pakistan strongly condemned the attack and urged Iranian authorities to investigate thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice.

This is the second such incident in the province; nine Pakistanis were killed in a similar attack a few years ago (13.4.25).

2. Iran’s Border Wall with Afghanistan Nearing Completion
Iran’s Army Ground Forces Commander, Amir Kiomars Heydari, announced that the border wall with Afghanistan is nearly complete and is equipped with advanced weapon systems to prevent illegal crossings, terrorism, and drug trafficking.

Separately, Major General Hossein Mousavi stated that 30 km of the wall has been completed, and another 50 km is nearing completion.

A similar boundary management initiative along the 900-km Pakistan–Iran border is also reportedly underway, but the current status is yet to be confirmed (13.4.25).

3. Indirect Iran–U.S. Talks in Oman on Nuclear Program
Iran and the U.S. held their first round of indirect, Oman-mediated talks in Muscat on 12 February. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi represented Iran, while U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff led the American side. Both parties expressed satisfaction and agreed to continue next week. Earlier, on 9 April, President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. would use military force with Israel if needed to prevent Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

An IAEA report in February stated that Iran has accelerated uranium enrichment, raising concerns of a potential nuclear weapon. Reuters reported that Iran’s Foreign Minister may soon visit Russia as part of diplomatic efforts before the next round of U.S.–Iran talks.

An analytical article titled “Nuclear Row Between the U.S. and Iran – Implications for Pakistan” by Muhammad Attaullah Khan was published on strategicbrief.com on 13 April (13 & 15.4.25).

Comments & Analysis: The resumption of indirect U.S.–Iran talks in Oman marks a cautiously optimistic turn in efforts to defuse tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. While both sides expressed satisfaction, the timing is critical—coming just days after former President Trump reiterated military threats alongside Israel to deter Iranian nuclear advancement. This juxtaposition of diplomacy and deterrence highlights the fragile nature of these negotiations.

The IAEA’s warning about Iran’s accelerated uranium enrichment underscores the urgency of reaching a verifiable agreement. Iran’s simultaneous outreach to Russia signals a strategy to consolidate diplomatic backing before entering further rounds with the U.S., possibly to counterbalance Western pressure.

For regional actors like Pakistan, these developments have significant implications for border security, energy dynamics, and geopolitical alignment, as explored in Muhammad Attaullah Khan’s recent strategic brief. The continuation of these talks—if not undermined by threats—may offer a diplomatic pathway to peaceful solution and regional de-escalation.