Article:
Pakistan’s security forces have conducted decisive intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), successfully neutralizing 13 militants over December 12 and 13. According to a statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operations targeted elements identified as “Khawarij,” including those allegedly linked to an “Indian proxy militant group.” Seven militants were eliminated in Mohmand district, while six were killed in Bannu.
The ISPR confirmed that these operations were intelligence-driven, targeting known militant hideouts. Ongoing clearance operations are in progress to ensure the complete eradication of any remaining terrorist presence in the region. This robust counter-terrorism drive forms a crucial part of the national “Azm-e-Istehkam” (Resolve for Stability) campaign, which aims to decisively root out foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.
**Environmental and Infrastructure Concerns**
Meanwhile, Pakistan grapples with significant environmental and infrastructural challenges. Air quality has emerged as a major concern across several cities, with Lahore ranking as the world’s second most polluted city, recording an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 337. Additionally, severe fog has led to the temporary closure of various sections of motorways in Punjab, significantly disrupting traffic flow and transportation.
**Governance, Economy, and Politics**
In administrative and economic developments, Deputy Commissioner Bahawalpur, Syed Hassan Raza, has suspended three personnel from the Para Force. The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) has urged the government to swiftly intervene and resolve the ongoing strike by goods transporters, citing its impact on the economy.
On the political front, Minister of State for Finance, Bilal Azhar Kayani, accused the founder of PTI and his party of echoing the narrative of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PML-N leader Ameer Muqam criticized Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for reportedly avoiding discussions on the pressing health crisis and hospital conditions within his province. Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb affirmed the province’s commitment to ensuring religious representation without fear and stated that those who “occupied the country for four years” have been dislodged.
**International Relations and Domestic Updates**
Pakistan extended its condolences following an international incident; both Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori and President Asif Ali Zardari conveyed their profound sorrow to the Australian High Commissioner in Pakistan regarding a recent firing incident at a Sydney beach. Reports from Sydney indicated that players from the Sydney Sixers cricket team, who were warming up at the time of the firing, were subsequently provided with phones as rules were relaxed for their safety.
In other domestic news:
* The first phase of an AI-based attendance system for employees of the Health Department in Balochistan has been successfully completed, registering staff across District Headquarters Hospitals (DHQs) and medical colleges.
* Action has been taken in Quetta against violations of the election code of conduct related to local body elections.
* The national airline’s management has refuted an ongoing social media campaign against its staff, labeling the allegations as baseless and misleading.
* Police reported a raid on Thandiani Road to apprehend a suspect named Shamrez and his accomplices, who allegedly opened fire on law enforcement personnel.
* A citizen reported missing from Baloch Colony was later found in Larkana, with a case registered by his son at the Baloch Colony police station.
* Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated he was asked to condemn a statement made by Nawaz Sharif.
* YouTubers Rajab Butt and Nadeem Mubarak have sought pre-arrest bail in connection with a case involving the promotion of online gambling.
* Indian and Afghan social media platforms have reportedly engaged in propaganda, labeling Pakistani youth Sheikh Naveed as an assailant.
* A film is reportedly being produced to highlight Lyari’s vibrant sports culture, traditions, and positive aspects.
* In an international news snippet, law enforcement agencies reported that a family member discovered two deceased individuals at the home of Rob Reiner.
* Former cricketer Michael Vaughan commented on his efforts to maintain composure during a situation.
