Pakistan has welcomed back its students stranded in Afghanistan, with immigration authorities stating that more students are expected to return through the Torghar route. A total of 28 students have requested to return to Pakistan, with immigration sources claiming that all border crossings, including Torghar, remain closed for travel since October 12.
The development comes as the government remains under scrutiny for its handling of the situation. Justice Yousaf Ali Saeed has called for the government to provide a written response to address the issue. Meanwhile, a request for a flight schedule has been made for students to return to Pakistan, with two flights from Abu Dhabi to Lahore and two flights from Islamabad to Skardu being cancelled.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing protests in the country, with several demands being made by various groups. The Pakistan Medical Association has announced a strike, while the Sindh Professors and Lecturers Association has called for a boycott of educational activities and a sit-in at the Bhutto House.
In other news, former Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf has called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the situation. The National Assembly has also passed a resolution calling for the withdrawal of the ordinance, with the Federal Government being notified to return the notification to the Parliament.
The Chief of Defence Staff and Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir, has met with the Indonesian Defence Minister to discuss defence cooperation between the two countries. The meeting was held to discuss the regions and global security situation.
The situation in Iran remains tense, with the US Embassy advising American citizens to leave the country by land through Armenia or Turkey if possible. The situation in Afghanistan is also dire, with reports emerging that the Taliban’s Foreign Minister, Mullah Amir Khan Muttaqi, has met with Indian officials in Delhi.
In cricket news, Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter, Alyssa Healy, has announced her retirement from all formats after the upcoming series against India.
The United Nations has also weighed in on the situation, with Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Munir Akram, stating that a lasting peace in Ukraine can only be achieved through dialogue.
In a separate development, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has praised the protests in Iran, stating that the Iranian people are strong and informed.
