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ARY NEWS

Azhar Farooq

  • Three key positions held by PTI declared vacant in NA

    Three key positions held by PTI declared vacant in NA

    ISLAMABAD: Three major positions held by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the National Assembly have been withdrawn, as the posts of Opposition Leader, Parliamentary Leader, and Deputy Parliamentary Leader have officially been declared vacant, ARY News reported.

    The Speaker of the National Assembly is expected to issue a notification for the appointment of a new Opposition Leader soon.

    PTI-backed independent members will also be required to submit fresh nominations for the roles of Parliamentary Leader and Deputy Parliamentary Leader.

    Additionally, PTI leader Omar Ayub has been delisted from both the Public Accounts Committee and the Finance Committee following his disqualification.

    The disqualified status of seven PTI lawmakers has resulted in the cancellation of their memberships from 15 standing committees.

    Among the changes, Sahibzada Hamid Raza has been removed as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Human Rights, while Zartaj Gul has lost her membership in the same committee.

    Rai Hassan Nawaz has also been removed from his position as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Railways.

    The restructuring follows a wave of disqualifications and marks a significant shift in PTI’s parliamentary presence.

    Earlier, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers, including Opposition leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub and Senate Opposition Leader Shibli Faraz after conviction in May 9 riots cases.

    The ECP issued notifications confirming the disqualifications under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution, which bars convicted individuals from holding parliamentary seats.

    Among the disqualified lawmakers are National Assembly member Zartaj Gul, as well as MNAs Rai Haider Ali, SIC chairman Hamid Raza, and Rai Hassan Nawaz.

    Additionally, MPAs Ansar Iqbal, Junaid Afzal Sahi, and Muhammad Murtaza Iqbal have also been disqualified, with the ECP issuing notifications.

    The disqualifications notified after an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Faisalabad sentenced PTI leaders including Omar Ayub, Zartaj Gul, Shibli Faraz to 10 years in prison in connection with the May 9 riots cases.

    As per details, former PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry, Zain Qureshi, and Khayal Kastro were acquitted in these cases.

    Also Read: ECP disqualifies Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz other PTI lawmakers

    On the other hand PTI MPA Junaid Afzal Sahi received a three-year prison term, while Sheikh Rashid Shafiq, nephew of Sheikh Rashid, SIC head Sahibzada Hamid Raza was also handed a 10-year sentence.

    Other convicted PTI leaders include Rai Hassan Nawaz, Rai Murtaza Iqbal, Chaudhry Bilal Ijaz, Mrs. Farrukh Agha, Farkhunda Kokab, Kanwal Shauzab, Mohammad Ahmad Chattha, Chaudhry Asif Ali, Shakeel Ahmad Khan Niazi, Sardar Azimullah Khan, Mehr Muhammad Javed, and Muhammad Ansar Iqbal.

  • Iranian President lands in Pakistan on two day official visit

    Iranian President lands in Pakistan on two day official visit

    ISLAMABAD: Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian has arrived in Pakistan on two two-day state visit, ARY News reported.

    On arrival, the Iranian president was received by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

    Iran’s President paid a visit to the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in the historic city. He arrived in Islamabad after a brief stay in Lahore.

    President Masoud Pezeshkian has arrived in Pakistan on the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a spokesman of the Foreign Office earlier said.

    Dr Pezeshkian is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, other senior ministers and high-ranking officials.

    The FO said President Pezeshkian will meet President Zardari, Chairman Senate, Speaker and also hold delegation-level talks with PM Shehbaz Sharif.

    The visit aimed at promoting political, economic and cultural relations, a spokesman earlier said.

    “This marks Dr Pezeshkian’s first official visit to Pakistan as president of Iran. It may be recalled that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last visited Iran on May 26, 2025. The visit is expected to further strengthen the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran,” the FO said.

    Read more: Pakistan, Iran, Iraq announce new regulations for pilgrims

    Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during his official visit to Tehran, Iranian media reported.

    During the meeting, Naqvi conveyed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s message of goodwill and best wishes to the Iranian leadership. He also congratulated the Iranian nation on what he described as a “historic victory against Zionist aggression.”

    He also recalled Islamabad’s swift and unequivocal condemnation of Israel’s aggression, stating that Pakistan was among the first countries to denounce the regime’s aggression and affirm Iran’s legitimate right to self-defense.

  • Shahzad Akbar emerges as ‘key figure’ in 190m pound corruption case

    Shahzad Akbar emerges as ‘key figure’ in 190m pound corruption case

    ISLAMABAD: Former Adviser to Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar has emerged as a central figure in the 190 million pound corruption case against ex-premier Imran Khan, ARY News reported, citing sources.

    Shahzad Akbar ‘masterminded’ an illegal scheme that caused significant financial loss to Pakistan, the sources within the investigating authority said. The former PM Adviser had signed a confidentiality agreement on November 6, 2019, under which 190 million pounds were transferred from a specific account to an account designated by the Supreme Court.

    According to sources, the investigations revealed that the account was misrepresented as a State Bank account and registered in the name of the Supreme Court Registrar.

    “Shahzad Akbar made visits to the UK from February 4 to 8 and May 22 to 26 in 2019, during which he held meetings with the British Home Secretary and the Director General of the National Crime Agency (NCA),” the sources said.

    They added that during these visits, Shahzad Akbar devised a secret roadmap for the return of funds with NCA officials, without informing the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), or the State Bank.

    “Due to his mala fide intentions, the 190 million pounds were used for the benefit of individuals rather than the state.”

    Read more: PTI founder, Bushra Bibi convicted in £190m Al-Qadir Trust case

    The sources added that Shahzad Akbar and Farah Gogi jointly executed the 190 million pound deal. Although Akbar signed the agreement on November 6, 2019, the cabinet was informed only on December 3, 2019. Investigations have confirmed that Akbar played a pivotal role in concealing the corrupt funds. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and other relevant authorities are actively investigating the case, with legal proceedings underway.

    It is to be noted here that PTI founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were given 14-year and seven-year jail sentences respectively by Rawalpindi accountability court Judge Nasir Javed Rana in the case, known as Al-Qadir Trust case or £190 million case.

    The court also imposed fines of Rs 1 million and Rs500,000 on Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, respectively.

    The accountability court also ordered to take Al-Qadir University into government custody.

  • PM Shehbaz ‘invites’ Chaudhary Nisar to rejoin PML-N

    PM Shehbaz ‘invites’ Chaudhary Nisar to rejoin PML-N

    ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif visited the residence of disgruntled PML-N leader Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan on Sunday, June 29, 2025, ARY News reported citing sources.

    According to sources, the prime minister also extended an invitation to Chaudhary Nisar to rejoin the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

    Last meeting occurred between the two occurred on September 7, 2024, when the prime minister condoled the death of Nisar’s sister, accompanied by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.

    During the latest meeting, PM Sharif inquired about Nisar’s health and discussed the possibility of his return to the party.

    Nisar expressed gratitude for the prime minister’s visit but stated that he would consider rejoining PML-N after recovering his health and consulting with associates, sources said.

    Nisar, a key PML-N figure for over 34 years, left the party in 2018, citing a decision driven by “conscience” and a commitment to “politics of honour, not power.”

    Read More: Chaudhry Nisar breaks silence after four years

    He later contested the 2018 elections as an independent candidate from Rawalpindi, criticizing the party’s ticket distribution.

    Despite efforts by PTI to recruit him, Nisar maintained his independent stance, citing personal ties with PTI founder Imran Khan.

    It is worth mentioning here that Chaudhry Nisar, after elected as an MPA from a Rawalpindi constituency in 2018, took an oath as the provincial lawmaker in May 2021.

    The former federal minister was elected from the Punjab Assembly constituency PP-10 in the 2018 general elections as an independent candidate.

    He didn’t take the oath in protest against alleged rigging which he claimed led to his defeat in the National Assembly’s constituency NA-59, Rawalpindi-III.

    He had decided to take the oath after nearly three years to prevent his disqualification.

  • NSC reaffirms Iran’s right to self-defense under UN charter

    NSC reaffirms Iran’s right to self-defense under UN charter

    ISLAMABAD: The National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, has reaffirmed Iran’s right to self-defense as enshrined in the United Nations (UN) charter.

    The meeting of National Security Committee was held in Islamabad to review the evolving regional situation following Israeli aggression against Iran. The NSC strongly condemned Israel’s acts of aggression and expressed regret that these military attacks coincided with a constructive negotiation process between Iran and the United States.

    “These reckless actions have escalated tensions, threatening to ignite a wider conflict and diminishing the opportunities for dialogue and diplomacy,” a statement issued by the NSC after its meeting read.

    The National Security Committee conveyed condolences to the Government and people of Iran on loss of innocent lives and prayed for the recovery of injured.

    While reiterating Pakistan’s stated position, the NSC expressed grave concern over the potential for further escalation after the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan on June 22 which violated the resolutions of the International Atomic Energy Agency, relevant international law, and the UN Charter.

    The NSC also reaffirmed Pakistan’s close engagement with relevant parties and endorsed its readiness to further continue efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.

    The NSC called on all relevant parties to resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, in line with the UN Charter. The Committee underscored the need of adhering to international human rights and humanitarian laws.

    Read more: Pakistan condemns strikes on Iranian nuclear sites at UNSC

    Earlier, Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s unilateral strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities safeguarded by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), terming the actions unlawful and provocative.

    Speaking at an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad expressed regret that international calls for de-escalation and dialogue have gone unheeded.

    “Pakistan’s stance from the beginning has been grounded in international law and the UN Charter,” the ambassador said, reiterating Islamabad’s firm opposition to Israeli aggression and expressing unequivocal support for Iran’s legitimate right to self-defence as recognized under the UN framework.

  • PM Sharif chairs NSC meeting to discuss security matters, Iran-Israel tensions

    PM Sharif chairs NSC meeting to discuss security matters, Iran-Israel tensions

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is chairing an important meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on Monday to discuss security related issues and Iran-Israel tensions, ARY News reported, citing sources.

    The session is being attended by key members of the country’s political and military leadership, including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad, Field Marshal Asif Munir, Navy, and Air Force, as well as federal ministers.

    According to sources, the committee is expected to assess the emerging regional situation in the aftermath of the Iran-Israel conflict, with a focus on its potential implications for Pakistan’s national security and diplomatic stance.

    Read more: Pakistan condemns strikes on Iranian nuclear sites at UNSC

    Earlier, Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s unilateral strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities safeguarded by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), terming the actions unlawful and provocative.

    Speaking at an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad expressed regret that international calls for de-escalation and dialogue have gone unheeded.

    “Pakistan’s stance from the beginning has been grounded in international law and the UN Charter,” the ambassador said, reiterating Islamabad’s firm opposition to Israeli aggression and expressing unequivocal support for Iran’s legitimate right to self-defence as recognized under the UN framework.

  • PM Shehbaz takes notice of NA speaker, Senate chairman’s salary hike

    PM Shehbaz takes notice of NA speaker, Senate chairman’s salary hike

    ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the recent increase in salaries and perks for the National Assembly Speaker and the Senate Chairman, ARY News reported.

    As per details, the PM also took notice of the hike in the salaries of Deputy chairman senate Sardar Syedaal Khan Nasar and Deputy speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah.

    PM Shehbaz summoned a report from head of senate and national assembly and will decide on salary increase after reviewing that report.

    Earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also opposed the recent increase in salaries and perks for the National Assembly Speaker and the Senate Chairman, terming it “financial extravagance.”

    In a statement, the defence minister criticised the substantial raise, asserting that it falls under the category of excessive spending.

    Khawaja Asif said that the ‘lavish’ increment in the salaries and benefits of the Deputy Speaker and Deputy Chairman also qualifies as financial extravagance.

    Read More: Ministers get 140 percent salary raise

    He said that there is need to consider the life of the common man, stating that the nation’s honor and dignity depend on their well-being.

    It is worth mentioning that the federal government approved a massive 500 percent salary increase for the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairman of the Senate.

    According to reports, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani will now receive a monthly salary of PKR 1.3 million.

    Previously, both high-ranking parliamentary officials were drawing a salary of PKR 205,000 per month.

    The massive increase will come into effect from 1st January 2025, according to the notification released by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

    This development follows an earlier decision by the government to approve a PKR 519,000 monthly salary increase for Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) and Senators.

  • PM Shehbaz arrives in Azerbaijan after two-day visit to Iran

    PM Shehbaz arrives in Azerbaijan after two-day visit to Iran

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Lachin, Azerbaijan to attend Pakistan-Turkiye-Azerbaijan Trilateral Summit, ARY News reported on Tuesday..

    On arrival, the prime minister was received by Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov.

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend the Trilateral Summit alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

    The Prime Minister is also scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with the President of Azerbaijan.

    Earlier, at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Reza Amiri-Moghaddam, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Muhammad Mudassar Tipu, and senior diplomatic staff bid farewell to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani delegation.

    The Prime Minister is visiting Azerbaijan on third leg of his four-nation tour, after which he will travel to Tajikistan.

    Read More: Pakistan supports Iran’s right to have civilian nuclear program: PM Shehbaz

    During his visit to Iran, Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif paid a courtesy call on Sayyed Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran on Monday and discussed matters of bilateral and regional interest.

    Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Interior Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi and Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar were also present on the occasion.

    During the call, the Prime Minister conveyed his deepest respect to the Supreme Leader underlining that His Eminence was an iconic figure in the Muslim World and the Muslim Ummah looked up to him for guidance and patronage.

  • Event to honour Field Marshal Asim Munir postponed at his request

    Event to honour Field Marshal Asim Munir postponed at his request

    In the wake of the tragic attack on children in Khuzdar, a ceremony to honour Field Marshal Asim Munir at the Presidency has been postponed, ARY news reported on Wednesday.

    Field Marshal requested the Aiwan-e-Sadar to postpone the ceremony in his honour later in the day, today after Khuzdar school bus attack that claimed lives of five including three children.

    According to the official statement, the presidential event was postponed at the request of Field Marshal Munir due to the deeply distressing incident in Khuzdar.

    Field Marshal Munir will now accompany Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on an emergency visit to Quetta to personally assess the situation and offer support.

    The Presidency confirmed that the decision reflects the gravity of the situation and the leadership’s solidarity with the affected families.

    Read more: Field Marshal Asim Munir honors sacrifices of martyrs at GHQ Ceremony

    Yesterday, the federal cabinet approved the promotion of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal.

    The decision was taken the federal cabinet, presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

    According to sources, the prime minister also met with President Asif Ali Zardari to brief him on the cabinet’s decision, ensuring full confidence and coordination.

    Additionally, the cabinet unanimously agreed to extend the services of the Air Chief Marshal upon completion of his tenure.

    Meanwhile, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has expressed profound gratitude to Allah, the Almighty, upon receiving a prestigious honor In his message, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir dedicated the accolade to the nation, the armed forces, and especially the civilian and military martyrs and veterans.

  • Army Chief Asim Munir elevated to field marshal rank

    Army Chief Asim Munir elevated to field marshal rank

    ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the promotion of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, ARY News reported.

    The decision was taken the federal cabinet, presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

    According to sources, the prime minister also met with President Asif ALi Zardari to brief him on the cabinet’s decision, ensuring full confidence and coordination.

    Additionally, the cabinet unanimously agreed to extend the services of the Air Chief Marshal upon completion of his tenure.

    Meanwhile, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has expressed profound gratitude to Allah, the Almighty, upon receiving a prestigious honor In his message, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir dedicated the accolade to the nation, the armed forces, and especially the civilian and military martyrs and veterans.

    “I am thankful to the President, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet for their trust,” Field Marshal Munir said. He added that the honor is a trust bestowed upon him by the nation, vowing that “millions of Asims are ready to sacrifice to uphold this trust.”

    “This is not an individual honor but a recognition for the Pakistan Armed Forces and the entire nation,” the field marshal added while expressing gratitude to the nation for their unwavering support.