Mecca Defense Pact Tensions: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that renewed Yemeni strikes on Saudi Arabia could trigger the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, where aggression against any signatory is treated as aggression against all—raising stakes as the Saudi-Houthi conflict intensifies. UN Counterterrorism Push: Pakistan urged the UN Security Council to strengthen its counterterrorism framework and fix gaps in sanctions, citing its role in weakening al-Qaeda after 9/11 and warning terrorism threats have evolved. Pakistan-Africa Trade Drive: Islamabad and African partners launched the Pakistan-Africa Economic Council, targeting $15bn trade by 2030 and pushing a more business-led relationship. Karachi Security Operation: Pakistan Rangers and CTD carried out a joint operation in Karachi’s Gulbai Sher Shah area, killing a highly wanted terrorist and recovering weapons and explosives. Balochistan Rights Alarm: Reports of enforced disappearances continue, with four people allegedly taken into custody in separate incidents, while families say they’ve received no official updates. Lahore/ Punjab Civic Focus: Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz marked World First Aid Day, urging citizens—especially youth—to get basic first-aid training and highlighting emergency services like Rescue 1122. Fuel Price Fallout: Chakwal lawyers boycotted courts and protested a fresh petroleum price hike, saying it will worsen costs for households and transport. Entertainment Spotlight: Mahira Khan, 41, announced her second pregnancy with husband Salim Karim, sharing a baby-bump photo from TIFF 2026.