Pakistan’s military has reported that the country witnessed more than 3,000 terrorism-related incidents in 2026, resulting in the deaths of 819 people, including soldiers, police personnel, and other security officials. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry shared the details during a press briefing in Islamabad on Friday. According to him, Pakistan recorded a total of 3,145 terror incidents during the year, with the majority occurring in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Chaudhry said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa accounted for 1,971 attacks, while 1,148 incidents were reported in Balochistan. The remaining 26 attacks took place in other parts of the country. He described the level of violence as one of the highest Pakistan has faced, stating that security forces were eliminating an average of 10 militants every day.

The military spokesperson said that 819 Pakistani citizens lost their lives in terrorist attacks, including 303 army personnel and 194 members of police and civil armed forces. At the same time, he claimed that security forces killed 2,084 militants during counter-terrorism operations carried out across the country. According to Chaudhry, security agencies conducted 40,348 intelligence-based operations in 2026 to target militant networks. Around 31,000 of these operations were carried out in Balochistan, which remains one of the most affected regions due to insurgency and militant activity.

He also revealed that Pakistan witnessed 28 suicide attacks during the year. The ISPR chief claimed that most of these attacks involved Afghan nationals and individuals allegedly linked to Afghan security forces. Discussing the security situation in Balochistan, Chaudhry rejected claims that the province was simply facing a law and order crisis. He argued that deeper social and political issues, including the long-standing tribal Sardari system and elite control, had contributed to a lack of development and opportunities for ordinary citizens.

He said that decades-old power structures had prevented equal access to education and progress for many people in the province. According to him, resistance to reforms by certain influential groups was contributing to instability. Addressing the idea of Pakistan becoming a “hard state,” Chaudhry clarified that it did not refer to military dominance. He said a strong state was one where laws and constitutional principles applied equally to all citizens, adding that Pakistan still faced challenges in achieving that goal.

The ISPR chief further alleged that some elements in Balochistan were using violence and instability narratives to protect their own interests. He said the military would not compromise with groups involved in terrorism and would instead focus on engaging with ordinary citizens and genuine representatives of the province.

On governance reforms, Chaudhry supported calls for improving administrative structures, saying better governance was essential for Pakistan’s long-term security and stability. He noted that the military had consistently highlighted the need for institutional reforms to address the root causes of unrest. Turning his attention to Afghanistan, the army spokesperson strongly criticised the Taliban government in Kabul. He alleged that militant activities had become deeply connected with Afghanistan’s political and economic structure and accused Afghan authorities of failing to prevent cross-border terrorism.

Chaudhry claimed that Afghanistan-based militant networks continued to pose a security threat to Pakistan. He also made a controversial comparison involving India and Afghanistan, alleging that terrorism was the only common factor between the two countries, though he did not provide supporting evidence for the statement.

The figures presented by Pakistan’s military highlight the country’s continuing struggle against terrorism, with thousands of security operations conducted and hundreds of lives lost during the year. The remarks also reflect growing tensions between Islamabad and Kabul over allegations of cross-border militant activity and the broader challenge of maintaining internal security.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defecnce News.

Fresh violence in Pakistan-administered Kashmir has intensified political tensions ahead of the region's legislative elections, with deadly clashes between security forces and protesters triggering renewed debate over governance, electoral representation, and civil rights in the territory. The unrest has drawn international attention as conflicting claims over casualties and the use of force continue to emerge.

The latest clashes erupted in Rawalakot after supporters of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) attempted to march toward Muzaffarabad despite heavy security restrictions. Authorities said the demonstrations turned violent, while protest groups accused security personnel of using excessive force against civilians. Official and unofficial casualty figures differ, with independent verification remaining difficult because of restrictions on access and communications in parts of the region.

The protests stem from long-standing political grievances rather than a single incident. A major point of contention is the reservation of 12 seats in the regional legislative assembly for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who now reside elsewhere in Pakistan. Protesters argue that the arrangement dilutes the political influence of residents living in the region and gives Islamabad greater control over the local political process.

The JAAC, which has been leading the movement, has demanded changes to the electoral framework, greater political autonomy, governance reforms, and the release of detained activists. Pakistan banned the group under anti-terrorism laws earlier this year, alleging that elements within the organisation were involved in violent activities. JAAC leaders have rejected those allegations and maintain that their movement is aimed at securing democratic rights and political reforms.

The violence has unfolded against the backdrop of phased elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Political analysts say the unrest has overshadowed the electoral process, with opposition parties raising concerns about the overall political environment. Some parties have questioned the fairness of the elections, while authorities insist that voting is being conducted according to law under enhanced security arrangements.

International human rights organisations have expressed concern over reports of civilian deaths, communication blackouts, and restrictions on media access. Calls have been made for an independent investigation into the violence to establish the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure accountability. Pakistani authorities have denied allegations of targeting peaceful protesters and have blamed armed elements for escalating the situation. The latest unrest is part of a broader pattern of protests witnessed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir over the past year. Demonstrations have focused on issues including political representation, governance, inflation, public services, and demands for greater local decision-making. Observers say these recurring protests indicate deeper structural challenges that extend beyond the current election cycle.

With polling continuing under tight security, the situation in Rawalakot remains tense. Whether the authorities can restore stability through dialogue or further security measures is likely to shape the political landscape in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the violence has once again placed the region under international scrutiny, highlighting unresolved questions surrounding governance, representation, and the rights of local residents.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.

Members of Pakistan’s transgender community held a demonstration outside the Karachi Press Club, protesting the rising cost of living and recent increases in petroleum prices. The protesters said that inflation has severely affected their daily lives, making it increasingly challenging for many community members to manage basic expenses.

Carrying banners and raising slogans, demonstrators on Wednesday urged the government to reconsider fuel price increases and take steps to reduce the prices of essential goods. They warned that the failure to address the economic crisis could further worsen the struggles of vulnerable groups, especially marginalized communities already facing financial difficulties.

Speaking at the protest, Gender Interactive Alliance representative Zehrish Somroo said the community had been compelled to come onto the streets because continuous price hikes were damaging their livelihoods. She highlighted that rising expenses have placed additional pressure on transgender individuals who often lack stable employment opportunities and social support.

Somroo appealed to authorities to introduce stronger welfare measures for the transgender community. She pointed out that many members continue to face barriers in accessing education, jobs, and equal opportunities, and requested the government to ensure that inflation does not further reduce the limited financial assistance and donations many depend on for survival.

Transgender rights activist Bindiya Rana said the protest was not aimed at confrontation but was meant to highlight the economic difficulties affecting ordinary citizens across Pakistan. She noted that increasing prices have created financial stress for people from all sections of society. Protest participants said repeated fuel price hikes and rising costs of essential items have pushed many low-income households into severe hardship. Some families, they claimed, have been forced to sell valuable possessions, including motorcycles and jewellery, to manage everyday needs.

The protesters stressed that many families are now struggling with uncertainty over meeting basic requirements such as food, transportation, and household expenses. They called on the government to take immediate steps to control inflation and warned that if their concerns remain unresolved, a larger protest involving transgender community members from across Sindh could be organized in Karachi.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

A new generation of young South Asians is emerging as a powerful force in public movements, challenging traditional political systems and demanding greater accountability from authorities. From Nepal’s Gen Z uprising to India’s CJP protests, youth-led demonstrations across the region are drawing attention for their energy, digital organisation and growing influence. Although these movements appear similar at first glance, with young protesters gathering on streets and using social media to amplify their voices, each has developed from different political and social circumstances. The common factor connecting them is a generation that feels increasingly impatient with existing systems and wants a stronger role in shaping its future.

Nepal’s Gen Z movement became one of the most visible examples of youth activism in South Asia. What started with anger over restrictions on digital platforms soon expanded into a broader protest against corruption, political privilege and dissatisfaction with the country’s leadership. Thousands of young citizens took part in demonstrations, using online platforms to coordinate activities and spread their message.

Unlike older political movements that were often controlled by established parties and leaders, Nepal’s youth protests reflected a more decentralised style of mobilisation. Young activists relied on social media networks, online communities and digital campaigns to organise and communicate. The movement showed how quickly a generation connected through technology can transform public frustration into a major political conversation. Nepal’s experience also highlighted the challenges that come after a successful protest movement. Creating pressure on governments is one thing, but transforming public anger into long-term political reforms requires strong institutions, effective leadership and practical solutions.

India’s CJP protests, meanwhile, emerged from a different set of concerns but carried a similar message of youth dissatisfaction. The movement attracted attention as young people raised questions about accountability, fairness and issues affecting students and aspiring professionals. Protesters used both traditional demonstrations and online campaigns to bring attention to their demands.

The protests reflected a wider feeling among many young Indians that institutions must become more transparent and responsive. For many participants, the issue was not only about a specific policy or decision but also about confidence in systems that directly impact their education, careers and future opportunities.

The similarities between Nepal and India’s youth movements are difficult to ignore. In both cases, young people used digital platforms as powerful tools for organisation and communication. Social media allowed information to spread quickly, helped bring more participants into the movements and created a sense of shared identity among protesters.

But the differences between the two movements are equally important. Nepal’s uprising was largely connected to dissatisfaction with the broader political structure, while India’s CJP protests focused more on specific governance concerns and demands for accountability. The scale, political environment and goals of each movement remain distinct.

Across South Asia, young people are facing many common challenges, including employment uncertainty, economic pressures, concerns about corruption and frustration with traditional political systems. With one of the world’s largest youth populations, the region is witnessing a shift where younger citizens are becoming more active participants rather than passive observers.

The rise of digital activism has also changed the way protests develop. Earlier movements often depended on political organisations, unions or influential leaders. Today, young people can build momentum through online communities, viral campaigns and direct communication. This has made protests faster and more flexible, but it has also created questions about long-term organisation and leadership. The biggest challenge for these youth movements will be turning protest energy into lasting change. Public demonstrations can force governments to respond, but meaningful reform requires continued engagement, policy changes and institutions capable of delivering results.

The growing presence of Gen Z in South Asian politics suggests that young citizens are no longer willing to remain on the sidelines. Whether in Nepal, India or other countries in the region, the message from this generation is becoming clearer — they want transparency, opportunities and a voice in decisions that shape their lives. The movements may look “same same” because they are powered by similar frustrations and hopes, but they remain “different” because each country has its own political realities, challenges and paths ahead. The rise of South Asia’s youth movements marks the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s political landscape.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.

Rescue teams in Japan have continued their search operations overnight as they race to find survivors following a powerful earthquake that struck Kyushu Island. Several people remain unaccounted for after the 7.1-magnitude quake caused buildings to collapse, with many feared trapped beneath the debris of a shopping centre. CNA Senior Correspondent Michiyo Ishida joins Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman to provide the latest updates on the rescue efforts and situation on the ground.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Israel and Iran have carried out direct strikes against each other for the first time since an April ceasefire, increasing concerns that the situation could escalate into a wider regional conflict. The Israeli attacks appear to go against advice from Donald Trump, who reportedly urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to respond militarily to Iran in order to protect ongoing peace negotiations from collapsing. Journalist Nosheen Iqbal discusses the developments with the Guardian’s senior international correspondent Julian Borger.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

In “Destination Anywhere,” Melanie Oliveiro interviews Julian Artopé, the founder and CEO of Zenyum, a company specializing in invisible braces and dental care products. He shares insights from his travels, beginning with Germany, his home country, and highlights Lake Ammersee near Munich as a must-visit destination. He then discusses his journey to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island, where he experienced distinctive shrimp ramen and relaxed in a traditional onsen village.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

The 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit and associated meetings in Cebu, scheduled from May 6 to 8, will bring together heads of state and senior officials from all ten ASEAN countries as well as Timor-Leste. The gathering takes place at a critical moment for the region, amid concerns that the Middle East conflict could disrupt global oil supplies, driving up fuel prices and increasing inflationary pressure on ASEAN economies. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman discuss the summit’s key issues in detail with Susannah Patton, a Non-Resident Fellow at the Lowy Institute.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.