Pakistan

DUBAI/ISLAMABAD, Sept 17 (Reuters) — Saudi Arabia and nuclear-capable Pakistan have formalized a mutual defense agreement, significantly enhancing their decades-long security partnership amid rising regional tensions. Shift in Regional Security Dynamics Gulf Arab nations are increasingly skeptical of the United States as their traditional security provider, especially after an Israeli assault on Qatar. A senior Saudi official revealed that the Pakistan-Saudi defense pact is the result of years of diplomatic efforts, marking a formalization of their longstanding cooperation. Israeli airstrikes in Doha targeting Hamas leaders have outraged Arab nations, occurring during crucial ceasefire discussions. Strategic Implications for Regional Powers The mutual defense pact could reshape strategic dynamics in the region. Gulf monarchies, traditionally allied with Washington, now seek stable relations with Iran and Israel. However, the ongoing Gaza conflict has disrupted these efforts. Qatar has experienced attacks twice in a year, once by Iran and later by Israel. India-Pakistan Tensions and Balance The Saudi agreement came months after a brief military confrontation between Pakistan and India in May. Randhir Jaiswal, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesman, acknowledged the deal, stating New Delhi would assess its implications for regional stability. A senior Saudi official emphasized the need to balance relations with India’s ongoing partnerships, asserting, “Our relationship with India is stronger than ever,” indicating efforts to maintain regional peace. Comprehensive Defense Cooperation Despite speculation about a nuclear umbrella for Saudi Arabia, officials confirmed it is a comprehensive defense agreement involving all military capabilities. Footage aired by Pakistan state television showed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman embracing after the signing ceremony. Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, was also present, highlighting his significant role. Agreement’s Key Terms The agreement demonstrates a shared commitment to enhancing security and achieving peace both regionally and globally, according to the Pakistani Prime Minister’s office. Key goals are to develop defense cooperation, strengthen joint deterrence, and protect against aggression.

Joint Declaration Against Israel Muslim and Arab leaders convened in Doha, urging a reevaluation of their ties with Israel after a deadly attack in Qatar resulting in six casualties. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab League (AL) organized the summit, promoting strong measures against Israel. Review of diplomatic and economic relations with Israel Pursuit of legal actions over actions against Palestinians Accountability under international law Participation of Key Regional Nations The summit attracted key Gulf nations including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco. These countries have previously recognized Israel. The UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco, signatories of the Abraham Accords five years ago, were represented by senior delegates. Calls for Stronger International Actions The summit focused on raising international pressure on Israel to cease the Gaza conflict and address humanitarian concerns. Member states advocated for Israel’s suspension from the United Nations, highlighting coordinated measures within Muslim and Arab societies. Qatar’s Emir Accuses Israel of Obstructing Peace Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, accused Israel of disrupting peace efforts. He alleged that Israel targeted Hamas negotiators to undermine ceasefire talks, drawing strong support from summit participants. Attendance of High-Profile Regional Leaders Notable attendees included: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas Pakistan’s Role in Regional Diplomacy Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the Palestinian cause and called for collective action among Muslims. Strong Warnings from Regional Leaders Iran’s President Pezeshkian stressed that without unity, no Arab or Islamic capital is secure. “Tomorrow, it could be any Arab or Islamic city. The choice is clear—we must unite,” he stated. Turkey’s President Erdogan criticized Israel’s “terrorist mentality,” noting the increasing frustration over ongoing conflicts. Egypt’s Warning on Peace Deal Threats Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi warned that Israel’s attack in Qatar might endanger future peace negotiations.

Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President, departed for London on Monday aboard Qatar Airways. The prominent political leader left from Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore for a planned two-week medical visit. Departure from Jati Umra According to family sources, Nawaz Sharif left early Monday morning from his Jati Umra residence in Raiwind. He traveled to Allama Iqbal International Airport, where he boarded the Qatar Airways flight to London. Airport officials confirmed that all journey preparations, including his scheduled flight departure, were completed that day. Two-Week Medical Stay Sharif plans to stay in London for two weeks, undergoing routine medical examinations and health checks at UK medical facilities. This journey marks his second visit to London this year; he previously traveled there in June for similar health consultations and monitoring. Health Assessments in Lahore Prior to his departure, the former Prime Minister underwent medical evaluations at the Punjab Institute of Neurosciences in Lahore. These assessments included: An MRI of his neck due to muscular discomfort Thorough examinations conducted by medical experts Clearance for international travel The evaluations are part of an established medical protocol set by his healthcare team.

Pakistan has urged the international community to establish regulations on emerging technologies to ensure global peace and security. This appeal was made during a United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union (UN-IPU) hearing. Pakistan’s representatives stressed the need for international frameworks to guide advancements in artificial intelligence, cyber tools, and autonomous systems to prevent misuse. Risks of Unchecked Technological Advancement The Pakistani delegation warned that unchecked emerging technologies pose significant risks to international stability. Without regulation, such technologies could escalate conflicts. Pakistan emphasized the necessity of global cooperation to promote development and peace, not division and warfare. Senator Aziz Warns Against Weaponization of Cyberspace Senator Aziz emphasized the severe threat posed by the weaponization of information, communications, and technologies (ICTs) within cyberspace. He advocated for the enforcement of international and humanitarian laws to safeguard peace and security. The senator argued that regulatory frameworks are essential to prevent technology misuse and preserve international stability. Pakistan’s Commitment to International Collaboration Islamabad’s delegation reiterated its commitment to collaborating with global partners on key issues, including: Responsible innovation in emerging technologies Fair digital governance frameworks Promotion of collective security measures Call for Adaptive Regulatory Standards Senator Aziz’s Advocacy for Regulation Senator Aziz urged governments to ensure regulatory processes for new technologies are adaptable to rapid advancements. He stressed the importance of international collaboration in developing harmonized regulatory standards. The UN-IPU hearing provided a platform for member states to debate the balance between technological innovation and global security. Pakistan’s advocacy reflects a growing consensus on the need for coordinated governance of emerging technologies.

Rights activist and attorney Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir has officially requested the Islamabad High Court (IHC) registrar to preserve vital CCTV footage. This request is linked to her recent confrontation with IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar. Request for CCTV Footage Mazari submitted her request online, stating, “I request the preservation of CCTV footage from the Honourable Chief Justice’s courtroom no.1, dated September 11, 2025, between 9am and 11am.” She emphasized the necessity of documenting the exchange. Additionally, Mazari requested a USB copy of the footage to accompany her application. Background of the Incident The incident took place during a Thursday hearing at the Islamabad High Court. Mazari was advocating for a client seeking the removal of rights activist Mahrang Baloch’s name from the Exit Control List, with Chief Justice Dogar presiding over the hearing. Imaam Mazar Courtroom Exchange During the hearing, Justice Dogar warned Mazari of potential contempt proceedings, hinting at possible action against her. Mazari defended her professional duties, expressing willingness to face contempt charges if necessary. Chief Justice’s Clarification The following day, Justice Dogar clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted, stating there was no intention to take actions against Mazari. However, Mazari’s husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, who attended the hearing, contested Dogar’s explanation. Justice Dogar likened Mazari to “a daughter,” explaining, “I was speaking to her as one would to a child, yet she did not understand. She repeatedly mentioned fundamental rights. Does this court not have any fundamental rights?” he questioned. Legal Community’s Reaction Justice Dogar’s comments received backlash from Pakistan’s legal community. Mazari labeled his statements as “sexist.” Numerous legal organizations and bar associations condemned the IHC Chief Justice’s actions, with some advocating for his removal. Calls for Accountability The Lahore High Court Bar Association strongly criticized the incident, emphasizing the need to honor lawyers as “officers of the court,” equivalent to judges. Key demands from legal groups include: An appeal to the Supreme Judicial Council to dismiss Justice Dogar Balochistan Bar Council’s support for removal actions Karachi Bar Association’s condemnation of the remarks and case management