16-30.4.25

Part 1- Domestic

BALOCHISTAN

1. An unknown armed motorcyclist hurled a grenade at a police station in Bhag town, Kachi district; however, no casualties were reported (16.4.25).
2. A bullet-riddled body of a person identified as Abu Bakar was found in the Buledi area of Kech district (17.4.25).
3. A bullet-riddled body identified as Farooq Ahmed, son of Noor Ahmed Mirajee Mengal, a local leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP), was discovered in Naal tehsil of Khuzdar district (17.4.25).
4. A seven-year-old boy was injured in a blast in the Hazar Ganj area of Quetta (18.4.25).
5. CTD police, in a joint operation with security forces, killed five terrorists affiliated with a banned organization during an exchange of fire in the Dhabar Pehari area of Duki district. The terrorists were involved in attacks on coal miners (19.4.25).
6. Two Levies Force personnel, including Maqsood Ahmed, escorting a polio vaccination team, were reportedly martyred when unidentified assailants opened fire on them in the Teri area of Mastung district (23.4.25).
7. Three persons, including a local JUI leader named Abdullah, were killed, and five others were injured when their vehicle hit a landmine in the Chori Bur Kaputo area of Kalat district (24.4.25).
8. Four FC soldiers—Subedar Shahzad Amin, Naib Subedar Abbas, Sepoy Khalil, and Sepoy Zahid—were martyred, and three others were wounded in an explosion near a security vehicle in the Margate area of Quetta (25.4.25).
9. Two security personnel were martyred, and a civilian was injured when their car was targeted by an IED at Muskhan Chowk in the coastal town of Pasni (28.4.25).
10. A grenade was hurled by unknown miscreants at the police line area in Dahdar, Kechi district; no casualties were reported (28.4.25).
11. Unknown persons threw a grenade at the Livestock Office in Sibi; no casualties were reported (28.4.25).
12. CTD police claimed to have killed two alleged terrorists affiliated with a banned group, including a suspected suicide bomber, during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Derakhshan area of Quetta district (28.4.25).
13. Security forces killed 10 terrorists in their crack down. Out of them, three were killed in Turbat, Kech district while seven in Choteer area of Ziarat district. 

KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA (KPK)

1. Unidentified assailants killed former district Nazim Engineer Malik Asad in an attack on his vehicle while he was traveling to Islamabad, near Gandiali area in Kohat district. He was reportedly the brother of the martyred Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) of Peshawar, Malik Saad, and Malik Salem, a Collector of Customs in Karachi who was also killed previously (15.4.25).
2. Two polio officials, identified as Raz Muhammad Akakhel and Muhammad Asif, were abducted by unknown individuals near Kot Daulat in Kulachi tehsil, Dera Ismail Khan district (15.4.25).
3. Security forces, during an intelligence-based operation (IBO), killed four terrorists in the Madi area of Dera Ismail Khan district; however, Sepoy Basit Siddique was martyred during the exchange of fire (16.4.25).
4. A policeman named Shahid was reportedly injured in a clash with terrorists in the Paharkhel Pacca area of Lakki Marwat district (17.4.25).
5. Police Head Constable Javed was reportedly martyred, and a civilian was injured when unidentified armed persons targeted their vehicle near Mousazai Adda in Dera Ismail Khan district (18.4.25).
6. A polio vaccination team worker named Rehman Gul was abducted by unidentified individuals in Bar Qamberkhel area of Bara tehsil, Khyber district (19.4.25).
7. Four terrorists were killed by security forces and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in a joint operation in Swat district (18.4.25).
8. Five people, including two women, were killed and three others seriously injured during an exchange of fire between two groups over a property dispute in Warshad area of Lachi tehsil, Kohat district (19.4.25).
9. Three persons, Tahir Hussain, Safar Ali, and Mazhar Hussain, were killed and several others went missing after unknown armed assailants attacked a group traveling from Parachinar to Peshawar in the Dad Qamar area of Bagan, Kurram district. The Thall-Parachinar Road, connecting the district to the rest of KPK, has been closed since 21 November 2024, leading to essential supplies such as food and medicines being transported under security convoys, which also occasionally face attacks. Local tribal leaders criticized the administration’s failure to reopen the road. Elders from both conflicting groups attended a jirga along with senior army and civil officials in Parachinar, assuring authorities about voluntarily surrendering weapons in accordance with an agreement (19 & 24.4.25).
10. CTD and police arrested two facilitators of terrorists during joint operations in the Darban and Kot Esa Khan areas of Dera Ismail Khan district (20.4.25).
11. A security force soldier named Attaullah, home on leave, was martyred by unknown gunmen in the Lawangkhel area of Lakki Marwat district (20.4.25).
12. Security forces killed five terrorists during an IBO in Razmak area, North Waziristan district (21.4.25).
13. A high-profile terrorist commander identified as Zabihullah @ Zakran was killed by security forces during an exchange of fire in South Waziristan district (21.4.25).
14. A terrorist identified as Afnan was killed during an exchange of fire following an attack on a police team providing security to a polio vaccination drive in Kalosha area of Azam Warsak, South Waziristan district (21.4.25).
15. Unidentified miscreants attacked a wildlife park located along the Indus Highway on the bank of the Kurram river with explosives in Lakki Marwat district. No injuries to people or animals were reported (22.4.25).
16. A school teacher, Farmanullah, was abducted by unknown armed persons while traveling to his school within the jurisdiction of Miryan police station in Bannu district. Besides teaching, he also operated as a licensed medical practitioner and ran a small store for basic medical treatment (22.4.25).
17. Two friends, Yousaf Khan and Yasir Khan, were shot dead by unknown gunmen near their house in Zaidong city, Swabi district (23.4.25).
18. Security forces killed six terrorists during an IBO in Bannu district (23/24.4.25).
19. Police foiled a terrorist attack on Shaheed Amanullah Khan Khattak police station at Sarsi Nourang in Lakki Marwat district (24.4.25).
20. Police destroyed terrorist hideouts in Wanda Amir area of Lakki Marwat district (24.4.25).
21. Police recovered 48 kg of drugs (ice/crystal meth) from a car and arrested the carriers, Hayat Wali and his son Mazang, in Landi Kotal area, Khyber district (24.4.25).
22. Retired Subedar Abdul Zaiq was martyred by unidentified assailants while on his way to offer prayers at a mosque in Lower Dir district. His family stated he had no known enmities (25.4.25).
23. ISPR reported two soldiers were martyred, and 15 terrorists were killed in separate operations in Karak and North Waziristan districts. Martyrs included Lance Naik Usman Muhammad and Sepoy Imran Khan (25.4.25).
24. Two police officials, Jamshed and Saifullah, were injured by an IED blast near a basic health unit in Shahkandi area, Bannu district (25.4.25).
25. School teacher Pervaiz, son of Abdul Ghani, was shot dead by unknown assailants in Afghan Colony area, Peshawar (25.4.25).
26. Six persons were killed, and a passer-by injured when armed assailants attacked their car due to an old enmity in the Phandu area, Peshawar (26.4.25).
27. Police killed a terrorist during a raid in Wanki Sirajkhel, Karak district, and recovered weapons (26.4.25).
28. Two robbers were killed and another injured during a clash with locals and police in Dera Ismail Khan district (26.4.25).
29. Three kidnapped laborers were recovered safely by local administration, police, and an MPA in Tank district (27.4.25).
30. Security forces killed 71 terrorists attempting to infiltrate from Afghanistan into North Waziristan, marking one of the largest single engagements (25-28.4.25).
31. An IED blast at a jirga in Wanna, South Waziristan, killed 11, including Aman Committee head Saif-ur-Rehman, injuring 25 others (27 & 30.4.25).
32. Police repulsed a midnight attack on a police station in Bakkakhel, Bannu district (28.4.25).
33. Four children were injured by a mortar shell in Bajaur district (29.4.25)
34. One person was reportedly killed and two others injured in the hilly area of Tirah Valley, Khyber district (29.4.25).
35. A DSP’s vehicle was damaged, though no casualties were reported when targeted by an IED near Kulachi Mor, Darban tehsil, Dera Ismail Khan district (29.4.25).
36. A police officer identified as Niaz Marjan, heading to court, was injured when unidentified gunmen attacked him in Rehmatabad area, Karak district (29.4.25).
37. Police killed a terrorist during retaliatory fire after an attack in Kot Adil area under Saddar police station jurisdiction, Bannu district. Two policemen, Waseem Sajjad and Constable Hayat Ullah, were injured in the exchange of fire (29.4.25).
38. Unidentified armed motorcyclists martyred police constable Farooq Shah and injured a health department employee in Charsadda city (30.4.25).
39. Two terrorists were killed and several injured by CTD police in an IBO in Spin Tangi area, Bannu district. Three CTD policemen, including ASI Binyamin Khan, Constable Inam Khan, and Constable Masroor, were martyred, and two others injured during the clash (30.4.25).
40. Unknown gunmen on motorcycles shot and injured a local ANP leader after robbing him of cash and a mobile phone in Serai Nourang town, Lakki Marwat district (30.4.25).
41. A child identified as Masood was killed, and another injured when an IED exploded near an FC checkpoint in Azam Warsak area, Birmal tehsil, South Waziristan district (30.4.25).
42. A former policeman named Amanullah, who was a proclaimed offender in murder, robbery, extortion, and terrorism cases, was reportedly killed after being kidnapped by rivals near Satrari Koroona on the outskirts of Lakki Marwat city (30.4.25).

Being part of a new strategy adopted in KPK, meetings and jirga were convened in Toi Khullah area of South Waziristan laying a new foundation for building trust and understanding among the tribal communities, people in general and state institutions include security forces, police and administration. Recently such meetings were held in Parachinar and Toi Khullah area of South Waziristan.

PUNJAB

1. A father named Asif and his son Sajid were allegedly kidnapped by the Katcha area dacoits In the limits of Ahmedpur Lama police station in Rahimyar Khan district (15.4.25).

• Police claimed to have recovered a kidnapped dispenser Asif Jhallan while killing two dacoits identified as Abdul Rehman @ Buga and Bahadur Seydani, and injuring several others during an operation in Katcha Jamal area in Dera Ghazi Khan district (17.4.25).

• Four. Members include Ameen, Ghulam Nabi, Yasin and Nasir (Rs2.5 m head money) of the Lathani gang of Katcha area surrendered before police in Rahimyar Khan district (17.4.25).

• Two militants were killed, several injured in a joint operation by the police, CTD and Rangers in the Kotani Tal area near Punjab-KPK border in Dera Ghazi Khan district however, during exchange of fire, two policemen sustained miner injuries (23.4.25).

• CTD and local police in a joint operation killed 10 terrorists and injured several others during an IBO in Makarwal area of Mianwali district. Later the Inspector General (IG) police also visited Mianwali along with senior police officers and commanded the performance of the police (21 & 24.4.25).

• Police killed three suspected outlawed identified as Rahmatullah @ Ranjha Sanjrani, Asif @ Haji Sanjrani and Fahad @ Fahdi involved in the murder of two policemen, durin an encounter in Taunsa area of Dera Ghazi Khan district (28.4.25)

SINDH

1. Two unidentified motorcyclists threw a cracker on a police post near Jamshoro Railway crossing in Dadu district however, no damage to human life was reported (16.4.25).
2. CTD police claimed to have arrested a suspected militant Sajjad Shar @ Bablu, affiliated with the outlawed Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA) near Scheme-33 in Karachi. He was close associate of militants Asgar Ali and Noor Ahmed Chandigarh and planning to attack on a railway track with an explosive device (17.4.25).
3. A PPP activist and UC Chairman, Abdul Kalam was gunned down by the unknown assailants in Aorangi Town, Karachi (18.4.25).
4. CTD police claimed to have arrested a suspected militant, Abdul Ghani Brohi affiliated with outlawed SRA from a railway crossing near Habib Sugar Mills area in Shaheed Benazirabad district (18.4.25).
5. A businessman was lynched when a number of supporters allegedly affiliated with Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) stormed a place of worship reportedly belonging to Ahmadi community in Saddar area of Karachi. Meanwhile police claimed to have taken 40 members of the community in to protective custody to save them from the mob and afterward let them to go to their homes. It is learned that later police arrested 11 activists of TLP nominated in the murder case of the lynched businessman after registration of FIR however, the TLP denied the allegation (17 &19.4.25).
6. CTD police claimed to have arrested a suspected militant identified as Dayan @ Asif Chikna, affiliated with outlawed BLA from Saeedabad area of Karachi (19.4.25).

Dr Naveed Elahi’s analytical article ‘NAP as Panacea’ suggesting to make NAP effective by adding strategies and prioritising the points of the list in the NAP was published in the news.com.pk/print/1105554-nap-as-panacea on 27th April, 2025.

INDIAN ILLEGALLY OCCUPIED JAMMU AND KASHMIR (IIOJK) / LOC

A. Unknown Gunmen Killed 26 Persons in Pahalgam

At least 26 people, including Naval officer Lieutenant Vijay Narwal and mostly tourists, were shot dead by unidentified armed men in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, a popular tourist resort in the Anantnag district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), on April 22. The little-known militant group “The Resistance Front (TRF)” allegedly claimed responsibility, according to reports by Greater Kashmir. Following a security briefing by senior army officers, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Srinagar. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) joined the investigation, and local police registered an FIR before the case was transferred to NIA by the Union Home Ministry. Security forces released sketches of three suspects—Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha—and deployed additional troops in the area. The attack was internationally condemned, including by the USA, Russia, China, and Pakistan.

B. Prime Minister Modi’s Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had embarked on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia on April 22, cut short his trip and returned to Delhi on April 23. Upon arrival, he convened a high-level meeting with the Home, Defence, and External Affairs Ministers, along with the National Security Adviser (NSA), to assess the situation and coordinate security and diplomatic responses. The attack is considered the most significant since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, following the Pulwama incident.

C. Indian Cabinet Committee Actions

On April 23, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by PM Modi, met in New Delhi. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the CCS decided to take punitive actions against Pakistan—without presenting evidence—including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Wagah-Attari check post (with returns allowed until May 1), cancellation of SAARC visas for Pakistani nationals with a 48-hour deadline to leave India, suspension of all visa services to Pakistan, expulsion of Pakistani Defence staff from their High Commission, and reduction of High Commission staff from 55 to 30 by May 1, 2025. An All-Parties Meeting was held on April 24 to gather support for these actions. PM Modi did not attend, choosing instead to address a public rally in Bihar, where he threatened a “hot pursuit” of terrorists. While participants endorsed the government’s decisions, many described the incident as an intelligence failure.

D. Pakistan’s National Security Committee Response

On April 24, Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by PM Shehbaz Sharif, condemned the Pahalgam attack but criticized India’s “reckless and irresponsible” actions. Pakistan announced reciprocal measures, including expelling Indian Defence Attachés, reducing Indian High Commission staff, closing the Wagah Border, and shutting Pakistani airspace to Indian-operated airlines. Pakistan also threatened to suspend all bilateral agreements, including the Simla Agreement, until India ceased alleged support for terrorism and violations of international law and UN resolutions on Kashmir. On April 25, Pakistan’s Senate unanimously passed a resolution supporting the government’s response, demonstrating national unity against foreign aggression.

Comments & Analysis:  The attack occurred during the visit of U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance to India and at the onset of the tourist season. PM Modi was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia at the time. Some analysts suggest the attack might have been a false flag operation by Indian intelligence intended to justify suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, echoing Modi’s 2016 statement: “Blood and water cannot flow together.” The perceived aim is to portray Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism and deny it river water. Although PM Shehbaz Sharif offered cooperation in a transparent investigation, India has maintained a belligerent stance, creating a war-like atmosphere. Contrary to expectations that Pakistan’s political and economic instability would prevent a strong response, its government, opposition parties, and public have united in defense of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

DEFENCE AND SECURITY

1. General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), during his official visit to the UAE, met with H.E. Mohammed Fadal Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence; H.E. Lt Gen Issa Saif Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff UAE Armed Forces; and H.E. Dr Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of Tawazun Council. He also visited Tawazun Industrial Park and observed various manufacturing facilities. Discussions focused on regional security and bilateral defense cooperation, while UAE leadership appreciated the professionalism and sacrifices of Pakistan Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism (16.4.25).
2. An Investiture Ceremony was held at GHQ, Rawalpindi, where General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), conferred military honors on Pakistan Army officers and soldiers for exceptional valor and distinguished service. Decorations, including Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military) and Tamgha-i-Basalat, were awarded, with posthumous medals received by the families of the Shuhada. The COAS paid tribute to the martyrs and veterans, lauded the resilience of Shuhada’s families, and appreciated the efforts of the Army and Law Enforcement Agencies in counterterrorism operations. Similar events were held in Peshawar, Lahore, and Karachi to honor bravery and meritorious service of Army personnel, including posthumous awards presented to families of Shuhada (17.4.25).
3. The 8th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition was held from April 14 to 18, 2025, at Kharian Garrison, with COAS General Syed Asim Munir attending the closing ceremony as Chief Guest. The 60-hour exercise aimed at enhancing combat skills and saw participation from teams representing the Pakistan Army, Navy, and 15 friendly countries, with observers from 6 additional nations. General Munir praised participants’ professionalism and endurance, emphasized mutual learning, and presented awards to teams. International observers commended the event’s professional conduct (19.4.25).

DG ISPR Press Conference

• Addressing a press conference, Lt-Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), rejected India’s baseless accusations following the Pahalgam attack, asserting that India had not provided any evidence to support its allegations against Pakistan. He stated India was actively spreading terrorism within Pakistan by operating and supporting terrorist networks, supplying explosives, IEDs, and other lethal materials targeting security forces and civilians. He revealed that on April 25, Abdul Majeed, reportedly trained in India, was arrested near the Jhelum bus stand with an IED, two mobile phones, and Rs70,000 cash. Further investigations led to the recovery of an Indian drone and Rs1 million from his house, with the handler identified as Subedar Sukvinder, a junior commissioned officer in the Indian Army. Lt-Gen Chaudhry asserted that forensic analysis provided irrefutable evidence of Indian involvement. He criticized India for launching propaganda against Pakistan instead of conducting a transparent investigation into the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. He said India’s baseless allegations aimed to divert attention from internal failures and political developments. Tensions escalated after India unilaterally suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Attari-Wagah border, revoked SAARC visa exemptions, and recalled its defence attachés from Islamabad. In response, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian flights and condemned the suspension of the treaty, declaring water a vital national interest. The National Security Committee warned that any attempt to stop or divert Pakistan’s water flow would be considered an act of war and met with full force.

DIPLOMATIC DEVELOPMENT / SIGNIFICANT DECISIONS AND EVENTS

COAS Address to the Overseas Pakistan Convention
A. COAS General Syed Asim Munir addressed the Overseas Pakistanis’ Convention with a nationalistic speech, emphasizing pride, ideology, and unity. He praised overseas Pakistanis, calling them a “brain gain” and countering the negative narrative around brain drain. He urged expats to remain ideologically connected, emphasizing Pakistan’s Islamic foundation and the Two-Nation Theory. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resilience against terrorism and lauded the sacrifices of soldiers and their families. In clarifying the concept of a “hard state,” he defined it as one governed strictly by law and constitution. General Asim declared that Pakistan has already started rising and called for national unity and pride. He warned against misinformation and irresponsible social media behavior, citing Quranic guidance. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering stance on Kashmir, calling it the nation’s jugular vein, and affirmed that Pakistan would never abandon Kashmir, even if war were imposed. He expressed strong support for Palestine, framing it as a moral, religious, and historical duty, as reported by Samaa News (17.4.25).

CJCSC Address to the Conference ‘Nuclear Deterrence in the Age of Emerging Technologies’
B. General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), urged India to take reciprocal nuclear risk-reduction steps to ensure geo-strategic stability in South Asia. Speaking at a two-day international conference on ‘Nuclear Deterrence in the Age of Emerging Technologies,’ organized by the Centre for International Strategic Studies (CISS) in Islamabad, he emphasized the need for mutual measures to foster peace. Pakistan has proposed several nuclear risk-reduction initiatives, including the Strategic Restraint Regime (SRR) since the 1990s, covering nuclear restraint, missile race prevention, and risk reduction. However, India has consistently rejected these proposals, citing China as its main strategic concern. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue on military tech challenges. CISS Executive Director Ambassador Ali Sarwar Naqvi warned that emerging technologies like AI and cyber tools are destabilizing global security. He stressed that these technologies pose ethical and legal challenges and are weakening current deterrence frameworks, as quoted by Dawn News (23.4.25).

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Address
C. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing a passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, described the recent tragedy in Pahalgam as yet another example of the perpetual blame game, which must end. He reiterated that Pakistan, as a responsible nation, is open to participating in any neutral, transparent, and credible investigation. The Prime Minister criticized India for continuing its pattern of exploitation by levying baseless allegations and false accusations without credible investigation or verifiable evidence. PM Shehbaz emphasized that water is a vital national interest for Pakistan, and any attempt to stop or divert its flow under the Indus Waters Treaty will be met with full force. He affirmed the armed forces’ capability to defend Pakistan, referencing their response in Operation Swift Retort in 2019. He expressed full confidence in the armed forces and emphasized the nation’s unity in safeguarding its sovereignty. He clarified that while peace is Pakistan’s preference, it should not be mistaken for weakness. Reaffirming support for Kashmiris, he quoted Quaid-i-Azam, calling Kashmir the jugular vein of Pakistan, and pledged continued support for their right to self-determination (26.4.25).

Diplomatic Engagements by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held separate meetings with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott. He also made telephonic calls to his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt, and Azerbaijan to brief them on the situation following Indian allegations against Pakistan. These allegations arose after the killing of 26 tourists in a militant attack in Pahalgam, Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), on April 22. In response, New Delhi blamed Pakistan, downgraded diplomatic ties, and suspended the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), triggering concerns of potential military escalation between the nuclear-armed neighbors. During the meeting with the Chinese Ambassador, both sides discussed the evolving regional situation and agreed to maintain close communication and coordination. They reaffirmed the all-weather strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, as stated in a press release by the Foreign Office (26.4.25).

ISI Chief Lt General Asim Malik Appointed NSA
The government has appointed Lt General Muhammad Asim Malik, Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as the new National Security Advisor (NSA). According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, General Malik will retain his role as DG ISI while assuming the additional charge of NSA. The position had remained vacant since April 2022. The NSA holds the status of a federal minister and serves as the principal advisor to the prime minister on matters of national security, foreign policy, and strategic affairs. The NSA also heads the National Security Division (30.4.25).

Part 2- Regional

AFGHANISTAN

Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, during his visit to Kabul, held discussions with the IEA’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, covering security, trade, transit, connectivity, and people-to-people contacts. Security and border management were emphasized as key to unlocking regional trade potential. Both sides reaffirmed strong relations and agreed to maintain high-level engagement. He thanked Afghanistan for its hospitality and invited officials to Pakistan, calling both countries each other’s second home. He noted that regular diplomatic engagement and committee work could resolve issues and announced that a transit track-and-trace system would be operational by June 30. Four decisions on refugees were made: respectful return, addressing mistreatment, lifting the property purchase ban, and allowing belongings to be taken back.
He later met with acting Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Hassan Akhund and Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Hanafi to strengthen ties and discuss mutual interests (19.4.25).

Russia-Afghanistan Relations
A) Following the Russian Supreme Court’s decision to remove the Taliban from its list of banned organizations more than two decades ago, Russian Special Envoy to Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, said this would remove legal obstacles to formal relations with the Islamic Emirate. He announced a major Russia-Afghanistan economic meeting in mid-May during the Kazan International Forum, where the Russian Deputy Prime Minister and a high-level Afghan delegation will participate. The UN responded that Russia’s move is a sovereign decision but does not change the Taliban’s UN status. Russia’s Foreign Ministry affirmed its commitment to UN sanctions, while Taliban spokesman Mujahid welcomed the move as a step toward stronger ties (18.4.25).
B) Sergey Naryshkin, director of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, described Afghanistan’s geopolitical significance at a conference in Baku. He stated that Western intelligence agencies are supporting anti-government forces to deliberately keep the country unstable. Naryshkin emphasized that countering this interference is crucial for Afghanistan’s recognition (19.4.25).
C) The IEA Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amir Khan Muttaqi, in a meeting with Zamir Kabulov, announced that the caretaker government would soon appoint a diplomat at the ambassador level to Moscow (23.4.25).
D) Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council Secretary, said the Moscow Security Conference (May 27–29) would address regional and global threats, including Afghanistan. He emphasized Russia’s global interests, from Afghanistan and the Middle East to Syria, the Arctic, the Baltic Sea, Iran, and its ties with Africa and Latin America. Shoigu also noted that cooperation with neighbors and groups like CSTO, SCO, and the Eurasian Economic Union would be key themes (24.4.25).

Indian Special Envoy Visit to Kabul After Pahalgam Incident
Indian Special Envoy Anand Prakash, the Special Representative of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India and Director General of the Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan Department, reportedly held a meeting with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi. Their discussion reportedly focused on strengthening bilateral political relations, enhancing trade and transit cooperation, and exchanging views on recent regional developments. Both sides emphasized the importance of bilateral engagements. This meeting comes amid growing tensions between India and Pakistan, as the former downgraded diplomatic ties with the latter following the Pahalgam incident. Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, during the meeting, stressed facilitating the movement of people between the two countries and called for the normalization of visa issuance processes for businessmen, patients, and students. India Today further reported that the press release issued by the Indian MEA stated that Anand Prakash reiterated India’s intention to continue its assistance to Afghanistan and conveyed interest in investing in infrastructure projects, including the resumption of previously halted initiatives. The IEA government, however, remained cautious about his visit and made little projection in the media, apparently due to escalating tensions between Pakistan and India (28.4.25).

IEA Foreign Minister Statement on Neutrality
IEA Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, in an interview with Al Jazeera TV Channel, stated that his country’s policy is clear and not in favor of conflict in the region. He called on Pakistan and India to resolve their differences through dialogue, as reported by Ariana News. Afghanistan will remain neutral in tensions between the two countries and seeks positive competition and strong relations with countries through trade. Regarding the visit by a US delegation to Kabul about a month ago, Muttaqi said that the visit opened a new chapter in US-Afghanistan relations and expressed hope that these ties would gradually expand. He also called for the complete lifting of economic sanctions on Afghanistan (30.4.25).

INDIA
(Defence and Security)

IAF Conducts Air Exercise “Akraman”
Amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam incident on 24.4.25, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted Exercise “Akraman” in the central sector to enhance offensive capabilities in mountainous and ground terrains. The exercise involved long-range strike missions, precision bombing, and simulated attacks led by Rafale fighter jets. The objective was to provide combat-realistic training with complex missions, including ground attacks and electronic warfare drills. Assets were moved from multiple airbases, including the eastern side, for this large-scale operation. IAF reportedly deployed two Rafale squadrons, one at Ambala in Punjab and one at Hashimara in West Bengal (24.4.25).

Indian Navy Showcases Maritime Power
The Indian Navy showcased its maritime power in a drill to revalidate its readiness for long-range precision strikes. INS Surat, the fourth and final ship of the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project, conducted a test firing of the medium-range surface-to-air missile (MR-SAM) air defense system in the Arabian Sea. According to media outlet Frontier Post, Pakistan Navy’s anti-access/area denial strategy repelled the Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which was earlier stationed at INS Kadambanava base in Karwar, Karnataka, near the Pakistan border. The aircraft carrier was reportedly deployed on 23 April in the Arabian Sea but was recalled due to the presence and continuous patrolling of the Pakistan Navy at sea. According to the latest satellite images taken on 26 April, INS Vikrant was re-moored at Karwar port (26.4.25).

Indian Army Chief’s Visit to IIOJK After Pahalgam Incident
Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Srinagar on 25th April and was briefed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15 Corps, Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava, on the overall security situation in IIOJK. He reviewed the prevailing security landscape and the ongoing counter-terror operations launched in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. Later, he reportedly flew to the headquarters of the Victor Force in Awantipora, which is responsible for overseeing anti-terror operations in South Kashmir, where he held detailed deliberations with top operational commanders. The visit included several senior Army officials, including Northern Army Commander Lt General M V Suchindra Kumar, Deputy Chief of Army Staff and GoC-in-C Northern Command designate Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, and GOC 15 Corps Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava. During his visit to IIOJK, he also met with Governor Sinha to discuss security matters in Srinagar (25 & 26.4.25).

BSF Orders Farmers Along Pakistan-India Border to Harvest and Vacate Fields
The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has ordered farmers along the Pakistan-India border to harvest their crops and vacate their fields within 48 hours. This follows a terrorist incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), reported by the Express Tribune. Announcements are being made via local gurdwaras in Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka, warning that non-compliance may result in the closure of border access gates. Around 45,000 acres of farmland between the border fence and the zero line are at risk, affecting key crops like wheat and cotton. While Indian border communities face rising pressure, life continues normally on the Pakistani side, where the wheat harvest proceeds without disruption (27.4.25).

Pakistan Shoots Down Indian Quadcopter in AJK
Pakistan shot down an Indian quadcopter conducting surveillance in violation of its airspace along the Line of Control with Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in the Manawar sector of Bhimber district (28.4.25).

Pakistan-India DGMOs Hold Talks on Ceasefire Violation on LOC
Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) reportedly spoke with each other on the hotline about the ceasefire violations involving small arms on the LOC in Jammu & Kashmir, as reported by The Hindu (29.4.25).

GOC-in-C of the Army Northern Command
Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, currently Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy), has been appointed as the Northern Army Commander, replacing Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, who is proceeding on retirement. The Northern Command is crucial, covering the Line of Control and the Ladakh region facing China. As an infantry officer, he has held key posts, including commander of the Kharga Corps, DG Military Operations, and DG Information Warfare (30.4.25).

PM Modi Gives Operational Freedom to Armed Forces
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while chairing a high-level security meeting in New Delhi, conveyed that the Indian Armed Forces have full operational freedom to decide the mode, timing, and target of India’s response to the recent attack in Pahalgam, IIOJK, as reported by The Economic Times, cited by PTI. The meeting was attended by the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, as reported by The Economic Times (30.4.25).

Indian Government Advises Media to Abstain from Live Coverage of Anti-Terrorist/Defence Operations
The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, amid reports of plans to carry out major anti-terrorist operations, issued an advisory cautioning specifically against real-time coverage, dissemination of visuals, or reporting based on ‘source-based’ information related to defense operations or national security interests, as reported by The Hindu (26.4.25).

Indian Government Bans 16 Pakistani YouTube Channels
On the recommendation of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, the Government of India on Monday banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for allegedly disseminating provocative and communally sensitive content, as well as false and misleading information against the country, the Army, and security agencies, according to government sources. The banned channels include Dawn News, Samaa TV, ARY News, and Geo News (28.4.25). India does not want its citizens to know the other point of view. It amounts to keeping its own population in dark and make them just believe in the information given by Indian channels.

National Security Advisory Board Revamped with Former RAW Chief Alok Joshi as New Head
The Indian government reconstituted the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) and appointed former RAW chief Alok Joshi as its new head. Other members include former Western Air Commander Air Marshal PM Sinha, former Southern Army Commander Lt General AK Singh, and Rear Admiral Monty Khanna, along with retired military officers. Civilian members include Rajiv Ranjan Verma, Manmohan Singh, and retired police officers, while B Venketsh Verma is a retired officer of the Foreign Service. NSAB is a multidisciplinary body comprising eminent persons from outside government, with the principal function of providing long-term analysis to the National Security Council and recommending solutions and policy options to address issues raised by them. This decision came after a Cabinet Security Committee (CCS) meeting under the Prime Minister (30.4.25).