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Author: Sajjad Khan

  • UK moves to seize Russia’s shadow tankers

    UK moves to seize Russia’s shadow tankers

    The United Kingdom has allowed its military to stop Russian-linked ships. These ships are believed to be part of a “shadow fleet.” This fleet helps Russia sell oil despite Western sanctions. Many ships operate quietly to avoid detection and restrictions.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer supported the move. He said it will reduce Russia’s income from oil sales. He warned this money supports the war in Ukraine. He added that Britain wants to block these financial flows.

    British forces are now preparing for possible boarding operations. Ships that ignore orders may be stopped or detained. Some vessels may carry advanced tracking or security systems. This could make operations more difficult for authorities.

    https://dmtn1.com/iran-launches-new-three-waves-missile-attacks-on-tel-aviv/

    After seizure, legal action may be taken against operators. Owners and crew could face charges for breaking sanctions. Russia has relied on this fleet since the 2022 invasion. It allowed oil exports to continue under strict global limits.

    Officials estimate most Russian oil moves through these ships. Many vessels are old and poorly maintained. This raises serious environmental concerns. Oil spills and breakdowns are possible risks at sea. European countries are also taking stronger action.
    France recently stopped a tanker in the Alboran Sea.

    The ship was suspected of using a false identity. It was later sent to a port for inspection. The UK has already sanctioned hundreds of such vessels. Some of them travel through the English Channel.

    https://dmtn1.com/iran-fires-sejjil-missiles-at-israel-in-first-reported-strike/

    Officials say stopping them will weaken Russia’s war funding. It may also improve safety in busy shipping routes. The plan was announced before a major summit in Helsinki. The UK hopes to increase cooperation with partner nations.

    Leaders want a united response against the shadow fleet. Better coordination may improve enforcement of sanctions. However, challenges still remain. Some countries continue to buy Russian oil indirectly. The United States recently allowed a temporary waiver. This let some oil shipments continue for a short time.

    The goal was to keep global energy markets stable. Ongoing conflicts have already affected oil prices worldwide. Despite this, the UK plans to continue its actions. Officials believe strong steps are needed to limit Russia’s revenue.

  • Government finalises mobile app fuel quota system

    Government finalises mobile app fuel quota system

    The government has completed development of a mobile app–based fuel quota system aimed at providing targeted subsidies to motorcycles and rickshaws. The plan may later extend to small vehicles up to 800cc, subject to approval by the cabinet committee.

    Officials say the system is designed to reduce the burden on low-income groups while also helping control overall fuel consumption through price-based signals.

    System development and coordination

    The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority worked with the Ministries of Finance, Petroleum, and Information Technology to test and finalise the platform.

    These ministries include the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Petroleum, and the Ministry of Information Technology. They collaborated to ensure the system is functional, transparent, and scalable.

    PPP Senator Sherry Rehman’s Daughter Marvi Malik Passes Away at 35

    Officials confirmed that the cabinet committee will take the final decision on whether small cars will be added to the subsidy scheme.

    How the mobile app system will work

    Consumers will generate digital fuel vouchers through the mobile app. Each voucher will link to the vehicle’s registration and the user’s CNIC.

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    Fuel retailers will verify these vouchers using dedicated devices at petrol stations. The government will require stations to reserve specific dispensers for subsidised fuel to avoid misuse and ensure smooth distribution.

    The system follows a model similar to the Ramazan Package, focusing on automation, monitoring, and transparency.

    Retailer setup and monitoring

    The Ministry of Information Technology has coordinated with mobile device manufacturers to provide specialised devices to fuel stations. Retailers may bear part of the cost, which will be deposited into government accounts.

    Oil marketing companies will assign focal persons to each retail outlet. These representatives will monitor operations and handle complaints to keep the system running efficiently.

    Economic context and fuel pressures

    Pakistan is currently facing fiscal pressure due to stable fuel prices amid rising global oil costs. Officials estimate that maintaining current prices may cost around Rs70 billion over two weeks.

    Rising global oil prices have been influenced by geopolitical tensions and disruptions in shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil trade.

    Expected benefits and earlier measures

    The government expects the subsidy system to provide relief to motorcycle and rickshaw users, who are among the most affected by fuel price changes.

    Petroleum Division Secretary Hamed Yaqoob Shaikh told lawmakers that the initiative aims to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs. He also noted that similar relief efforts have already been introduced in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

    The final rollout will depend on cabinet approval and the readiness of the supporting infrastructure across fuel stations.

  • Trump says the U.S. and Iran are in talks

    Trump says the U.S. and Iran are in talks

    He delayed strikes on power plants, claiming productive discussions, while Iran denies any contact with Washington.

    Trump delays strike threat: Former President Donald Trump told CNN that there are reportedly 15 points of agreement between the United States and Iran following recent talks. He also stated that he will pause any planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days. This comes after earlier threats to act if Iran did not agree to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

    PPP Senator Sherry Rehman’s Daughter Marvi Malik Passes Away at 35

    Iran denies dialogue

    Iran’s foreign ministry, as reported by state-affiliated media, rejected the idea of any direct communication with Washington, stating that “no dialogue” has taken place. However, multiple countries are said to be acting as intermediaries, relaying messages between the US and Iran in an effort to reduce escalating tensions, according to sources cited by CNN.

    Ongoing strikes and casualties

    The conflict continues to intensify, with reports indicating that thousands of people have been killed in Iran and Lebanon since the fighting began. In the latest developments, several areas across Tehran were reportedly targeted in renewed Israeli airstrikes, according to Iranian state media.

    Oil markets respond sharply: Following Trump’s remarks, global oil prices dropped significantly. The international oil benchmark fell by more than 7%, trading below $99 per barrel, after briefly rising to $114 earlier in the day amid rising geopolitical tensions.

  • PPP Senator Sherry Rehman’s Daughter Marvi Malik Passes Away at 35

    PPP Senator Sherry Rehman’s Daughter Marvi Malik Passes Away at 35
    Sherry Rehman with her daughter Marvi Malik

    Marvi Malik, the daughter of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) senior leader Senator Sherry Rehman, passed away at the age of 35 on Sunday. She had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in Karachi, where she was admitted five days ago due to a brain hemorrhage. Her condition worsened three days before her death, and she required ventilation.

    Her funeral prayer is scheduled for Monday at 3:30 PM at DHA Phase 8 in Karachi, followed by burial in a local cemetery.

    The news of her sudden death drew condolences from political leaders and officials across Pakistan. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his grief and prayed for Marvi Malik’s forgiveness, as well as strength and patience for her family. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the death of a child as “an indescribable grief” and offered heartfelt prayers for her elevated status in the afterlife, while also praying for her family’s resilience during this difficult time.

    Pakistan Maintains Fuel Supply Amid Global Oil Shock

    Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also shared his sorrow and prayed for Marvi Malik’s forgiveness and high ranks in the hereafter. Sindh senior minister Sharjeel Inam Memon called the news devastating and extended condolences to the family, praying for their patience. Sindh Governor Muhammad Nehal Hashmi expressed deep sadness and said he shared in the family’s grief, praying for Marvi Malik’s elevated place and forgiveness.

    PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and PPP Women’s Wing President Faryal Talpur both expressed their condolences, offering prayers for Marvi Malik’s eternal peace and strength for the family. PPP leader Shazia Marri described the loss as “irreparable” and expressed her sympathy, praying for the family’s resilience.

    Mayor of Karachi, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, called the news “extremely sad” and prayed for her forgiveness and elevated status in the afterlife, while also sending heartfelt condolences to Sherry Rehman and her family. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed profound grief, describing the loss as unbearable, and prayed for her eternal peace.

    Marvi Malik’s untimely passing has left her family, friends, and colleagues in deep mourning. The widespread condolences reflect the respect and affection she earned in her life. As her funeral and burial take place, Pakistanis join in prayers for her peace and for comfort for her family during this tragic time.

  • Pakistan Maintains Fuel Supply Amid Global Oil Shock

    Pakistan Maintains Fuel Supply Amid Global Oil Shock

    Pakistan announced on Saturday that support from Saudi Arabia and alternative shipping routes is helping sustain fuel imports. This comes as the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel has triggered a sharp global oil shock.

    The crisis caused crude oil prices to rise dramatically, from around $70 per barrel in late February to $160–170 recently. These surging prices have disrupted global supply chains and raised concerns for countries like Pakistan, which rely heavily on imported fuel.

    Rising Prices Hit Consumers Hard

    Earlier this month, Pakistan increased petrol and diesel prices by nearly Rs55 ($0.20) per liter. Fuel prices now exceed Rs320 ($1.14) per liter. The hike has also pushed inflation higher, affecting transport, food, and retail sectors.

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    To manage the impact, the government introduced several austerity measures. Schools will remain closed for two weeks. Fuel allocations for government vehicles have been cut by 50 percent. Public offices are moving to shorter workweeks and allowing remote work, and official travel has been minimized.

    Alternative Supply Routes Keep Fuel Flowing

    Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said Saudi Arabia continues to supply oil through alternative routes. These shipments bypass traditional Gulf transit chokepoints. Pakistan also receives fuel via ports such as Yanbu and Fujairah.

    ADB Approves $10 Billion Loan Strategy for Pakistan

    Malik emphasized that the government prioritizes maintaining fuel supply even as prices soar globally. Authorities partially adjusted prices earlier, while absorbing further increases to reduce the burden on consumers before Eid.

    Government Cuts to Cushion Impact

    The minister noted the government is also cutting internal expenditures. Reducing fuel use and official spending helps cushion Pakistan’s economy from the global price shock.

    Analysts warn that Pakistan’s dependence on imported fuel leaves it vulnerable to external shocks. Geopolitical instability in the Middle East, a major source of the country’s energy, can quickly affect supply and costs.

    Broader Regional Concerns

    The ongoing conflict has disrupted maritime routes and increased risks along key oil corridors. Countries across Asia are exploring alternative supply chains and conservation measures. Pakistan’s use of multiple ports and alternative routes shows how nations can adapt to global energy disruptions.

  • Iran Allows Japanese Ships to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz

    Iran Allows Japanese Ships to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz
    Strait of Hormuz

    Iran says it will allow Japanese ships to pass through Strait of Hormuz. This shows a softer approach from Tehran on the key waterway.

    Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said the strait is not fully closed. He explained that only countries seen as enemies are blocked. Friendly or neutral countries can still pass.

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    He said Iran is ready to help ships move safely. Countries just need to contact Iranian authorities first. They can then agree on a safe way to travel.

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    Japan depends heavily on oil from the Middle East. More than 90 percent of its crude oil comes from this region. Because of this, the Strait of Hormuz is very important for Japan.

    The route has been mostly blocked since fighting began on February 28. The conflict started after attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.

    In the early days, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned ships not to pass. They even threatened to attack vessels entering the strait. This caused shipping traffic to drop sharply.

    Karachi - City of Lights

    Recently, Iran has changed its message. Officials now say only enemy ships are banned. Others may pass with approval.

    Some countries have already been allowed through. These include China, India, and Pakistan. Japan may soon join this group.

    Reports say about 10 ships have passed safely in recent days. These ships stayed close to Iran’s coastline. This path is now seen as a safer route.

    One ship, a Greek cargo vessel, passed near Larak Island. It sent a message saying it carried food for Iran.

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    Iran is also working on a system to check ships before entry. This would make the process more organized and safer.

    At the same time, many countries are asking Iran to fully reopen the route. Several European nations have shown support for safe shipping efforts.

    Japan has also raised concerns about its ships stuck in the Gulf. Officials are now in talks with Iran to solve the issue.

  • Kim Jong Un Rides Tank with Teenage Daughter Amid Military Drills

    Kim Jong Un Rides Tank with Teenage Daughter Amid Military Drills

    North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appeared publicly again with his daughter. The appearance drew global attention due to its military setting. They were seen riding a tank during recent military exercises.

    Iran Allows Japanese Ships to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz

    State media released official photos of the event on Friday. The Korean Central News Agency shared detailed coverage of the drills. Both wore black leather jackets during the training session. They rode an olive-green tank alongside uniformed soldiers. The girl was seen looking out from the tank’s hatch.

    Kim Jong Un sat confidently on top of the tank. He appeared relaxed and smiled during the exercise. The drills included tank units and infantry forces. Live-fire practice and battlefield movement were also demonstrated. Kim personally supervised the exercises on Thursday.

    He stressed the need for stronger war readiness. He urged troops to complete full combat preparation. His daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is believed to be about 13 years old. She has appeared frequently at major events since late 2022.

    Her presence has increased in recent months. State media calls her his “most beloved” child. It also refers to her as a “respected” figure. Photos often show a close bond between father and daughter.

    Her public role continues to grow steadily. This has sparked speculation about future leadership plans. Some analysts believe she could be a potential successor. Others remain cautious about such conclusions.

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    North Korea has a long history of male leadership. Experts say the system still favors male successors. Kim Jong Un is also considered relatively young. These factors create uncertainty around succession discussions.

    Recently, the pair visited a light munitions factory. They were seen firing pistols during that visit. They also observed weapons production processes. In another event, they watched rocket launch tests. Multiple rocket launch systems were tested in live conditions. Such displays highlight North Korea’s military capabilities.

    Pakistan Maintains Fuel Supply Amid Global Oil Shock

    Last September, she traveled to Beijing with her father. The visit marked another high-profile appearance. During New Year celebrations, she showed public affection. She was seen kissing her father on the cheek. Such moments are unusual in North Korean public imagery. They suggest efforts to build her public image.

    South Korea’s intelligence agency shared its assessment recently. It suggested she could be preparing for a future leadership role. However, some experts disagree with that view. They cite traditional power structures in North Korea. These structures are heavily male-dominated. Regional tensions remain high during these developments.

    The United States and South Korea continue joint military exercises. North Korea strongly criticizes these drills. It considers them rehearsals for a possible invasion.

    The allies recently completed an 11-day command exercise. This exercise was computer-simulated and strategic in nature.

    However, field training activities are still ongoing. These include troop movements and live drills. North Korea often responds strongly to such exercises. Military demonstrations are part of its response strategy.

    The recent tank appearance fits this pattern. It also highlights internal messaging within North Korea. Public displays aim to show strength and unity. They also signal continuity in leadership.

    The growing presence of Kim Ju Ae remains closely watched. Observers continue to analyze every public appearance carefully. Her role may become clearer in the coming years. For now, speculation continues among global analysts.

  • ADB Approves $10 Billion Loan Strategy for Pakistan

    ADB Approves $10 Billion Loan Strategy for Pakistan
    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a five-year lending strategy worth $10 to $12 billion for Pakistan, aimed at supporting the country’s growth and addressing key development challenges. The strategy includes financing for crucial projects, including the exploration of critical minerals and the improvement of Pakistan Railways’ Main Line-I (ML-I) project.

    This new country partnership strategy (CPS) for Pakistan, which will span from 2026 to 2030, focuses on three main areas:

    Private Sector Development: Encouraging private sector growth.

    Inclusion and Empowerment: Promoting social inclusion and empowerment.

    Resilience and Sustainability: Enhancing the country’s resilience and sustainability, particularly through addressing environmental and social challenges.

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    Key Projects and Focus Areas

    The ADB will finance the development of Pakistan’s critical mineral resources, such as copper, chromite, and gold, which have not been fully utilized due to challenges in infrastructure, governance, and regulation. This investment aims to improve the value chain of these minerals and create jobs, especially in rural areas where poverty remains high.

    The ADB will also support the Main Line-I (ML-I) project, which is crucial for modernizing Pakistan’s railway system. This upgrade will enhance the efficiency of Pakistan’s main railway line, improving transportation across the country and fostering regional integration. The project was initially part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) but was withdrawn by China due to Pakistan’s growing debt.

    Additional Key Areas of Focus

    The ADB’s lending strategy will also address:

    Pension and Insurance Reforms: $500 million will be allocated to support reforms in Pakistan's pension and insurance systems, as well as develop capital markets to channel savings into productive investments.

    Infrastructure Development: The ADB will fund infrastructure projects, including port modernization and improvements in national and provincial motorways and highways. These projects will aim to boost trade and logistics by modernizing supply chains and simplifying cross-border trade procedures.

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    Climate Change and Disaster Management: Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters will be tackled through improved disaster risk management and climate governance, along with scaling up investments in climate resilience, adaptation, and mitigation.

    Also Read : CPPA Requests Rs1.64 Per Unit Increase in Electricity Tariff for February

    Social Challenges and Inequality

    The CPS also highlights the significant challenges Pakistan faces in terms of poverty and inequality. Around 45% of the population lives in poverty, with rural areas bearing a disproportionate burden. The ADB will focus on initiatives that aim to bridge this gap and provide benefits to the most vulnerable communities.

    Governance and Structural Issues

    Iran Allows Japanese Ships to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz

    The ADB’s report also pointed out Pakistan's governance challenges, including inefficiencies in public financial management, the overburdened public sector, and a complex regulatory environment. These factors have hindered progress on reforms and led to persistent issues in key sectors like energy, railways, and urban services.

    Despite these challenges, the ADB remains committed to helping Pakistan overcome its obstacles, with a clear focus on sustainable and inclusive development. The five-year lending strategy will be flexible, with financing allocated to specific projects over time based on Pakistan’s evolving needs and credit rating improvements.

    In summary, the ADB’s $10-$12 billion loan strategy for Pakistan will address both immediate infrastructure needs and long-term growth challenges, aiming to foster a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for the country.

  • New EV Bus Route from Gulshan-e-Maymar Opens in Karachi

    New EV Bus Route from Gulshan-e-Maymar Opens in Karachi

    On Tuesday, Sharjeel Inam Memon, Sindh’s Senior Minister for Information, Transport, and Mass Transit, inaugurated a new electric vehicle (EV) bus route from Gulshan-e-Maymar to Tower, marking a significant step in Karachi’s transport evolution.

    The event was attended by Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, Deputy Mayor Salman Murad, PPP MNA Dr. Shahida Rehmani, and other notable figures.

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    During the inauguration, Sharjeel Inam Memon shared that this new initiative is a reflection of the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people, particularly during the blessed month of Ramazan. He emphasized that these efforts align with the vision of PPP leaders Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Faryal Talpur. He pointed out that wherever the PPP government has served, visible progress has been made.

    Memon also highlighted that the country is facing challenges from terrorism, with the armed forces working tirelessly to protect Pakistan. He paid tribute to the leadership of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, acknowledging their role in strengthening the country’s defense.

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    Regarding the city’s development, Memon stated that projects aimed at solid waste management, water supply, and infrastructure improvement are progressing rapidly in collaboration with Mayor Karachi.

    He further mentioned the Sindh government’s commitment to providing high-quality, free healthcare facilities, which are unavailable in other parts of the country. Additionally, he celebrated the introduction of EV bus services, the Pink Bus Service for women, and Pink Scooties, all aimed at promoting women’s empowerment.

    Memon emphasized the importance of the EV bus service in improving public transport for the residents of Gulshan-e-Maymar, making a special note that the Pink buses are a first for the area, and that free Pink bikes would also be provided to women.

    He shared the challenges faced in acquiring these EV buses, mentioning how the buses were initially held at the port and how the Sindh government had to pay a higher tax rate (18%) compared to others (who paid only 1%).

    The Minister concluded by stressing that true public service is rooted in commitment and that those elected to power should always strive to serve the people genuinely.

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    In closing, Memon also announced that Shahrah Bhutto will be opened for traffic on April 30, with ongoing work for Karachi’s continuous development.

    Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab praised the PPP for fulfilling its promises, stating that the party’s workers continue to serve under the leadership’s vision.

    MNA Dr. Shahida Rehmani congratulated the residents of Gulshan-e-Maymar, saying the long-standing promise of better transport services for them has now been fulfilled.

  • Gold Prices in Pakistan – March 19, 2026

    Gold Prices in Pakistan – March 19, 2026

    Gold prices in Pakistan are expected to fluctuate on Thursday, March 19, due to changes in international market trends.

    Gold has always been considered a safe investment during times of economic uncertainty. It tends to hold its value or even increase when markets are unstable, making it a popular choice for those looking to protect their wealth. Unlike investments in real estate, stocks, or currencies, gold is not directly affected by interest rates or government policies, which is why it is seen as a reliable asset during periods of inflation or geopolitical issues.

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    Gold Rates in Pakistan Today

    • The price of gold in Pakistan today is Rs523,762 per tola, showing no change from the previous session.
    • The price for 10 grams of gold is Rs449,041.

    Silver Prices in Pakistan Today

    • The silver price today stands at Rs8,494 per tola, reflecting a decline of Rs75 from the previous session.
    • The price of 10 grams of silver is Rs7,282, which dropped by Rs64.

    Also Read : CPPA Requests Rs1.64 Per Unit Increase in Electricity Tariff for February

    Gold Prices in the International Market

    • In the international market, gold is priced at $5,010 per ounce, with no change recorded.

    New EV Bus Route from Gulshan-e-Maymar Opens in Karachi

    Reasons Behind Gold Fluctuations

    Experts believe that recent drops in gold prices globally are due to a significant sell-off, as investors have been cashing in on profits after the precious metal reached record highs. However, the situation remains uncertain. Tensions between Iran and the US could cause further price changes, with the potential for gold prices to rise again if the situation worsens.