Ground Zero

is a comprehensive resource of articles on terrorism and counter-terrorism in South Asia, with a particular focus on Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Pakistan’s mineral sector has taken a significant step forward with progress on the Sapphire Soda Ash Project, facilitated through the efforts of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). The initiative is expected to strengthen local industrial capacity and support the country’s long-term economic development goals.

By addressing regulatory and operational bottlenecks, SIFC has helped create a more investment-friendly environment, enabling key projects to move forward efficiently. The Sapphire Soda Ash Project is seen as an important development for increasing domestic production and reducing reliance on imports in industrial raw materials.

Officials say the project reflects Pakistan’s broader strategy of promoting investment, industrialization, and resource development. As work progresses, the initiative is expected to contribute to economic growth, job creation, and the expansion of the country’s mineral and manufacturing sectors.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Political scientist Ashok Swain has highlighted public lobbying disclosures indicating that India and Israel have jointly contracted SHW Group, a Washington, D.C.-based lobbying and public affairs firm. The filings reportedly outline efforts aimed at engaging with U.S. policymakers and key stakeholders.

According to the disclosures, the firm's mandate includes lobbying activities, strategic communications, and public affairs outreach. The engagement is focused on promoting perspectives related to regional security and stability in both South Asia and the Middle East.

The reported arrangement underscores the growing importance of lobbying and policy advocacy in shaping international narratives and influencing decision-makers in Washington. The disclosures have attracted attention among analysts and observers monitoring geopolitical developments and strategic partnerships in the region.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Pakistan has accused India of “weaponizing water” after raising concerns over two projects linked to the Chenab River, warning that the initiatives could undermine the Indus Waters Treaty. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the projects were launched without consultation and could have serious implications for Pakistan’s water security.

According to Islamabad, the proposed Chenab-Uplink Tunnel project and sediment-removal activities at the Salal Power Station could give India greater control over water flows that affect Pakistan. Officials argue that such measures violate the spirit and provisions of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, which has governed water sharing between the two countries for decades.

Pakistan has warned that any move threatening its water, food, or economic security would be unacceptable and said it reserves the right to protect its interests under international agreements. The dispute adds to growing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with water security increasingly emerging as a key regional concern.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has requested an additional Rs8 billion from the provincial government to support ongoing security and development projects in the merged tribal districts. The request comes as the province continues to face increasing security challenges and a rise in terr0rist incidents.

According to official documents, a total of Rs16.34 billion was allocated for police and Counter Terr0rism Department (CTD) development schemes in the merged districts. Of the Rs7 billion released during the current fiscal year, approximately Rs6.76 billion has already been utilized on ongoing projects and infrastructure development.

Police officials say the additional funding is essential to complete existing schemes on time and further strengthen operational capabilities, security infrastructure, and CTD resources in areas facing heightened security risks. The request has been forwarded to the provincial Home Department for consideration.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Militants repeatedly using civilians, including children, as human shields during a recent confrontation in the Naurang Khel area of Bannu. Militants allegedly operated from within populated areas while targeting security forces, putting local residents at risk.

Officials and local sources state that such tactics have been used repeatedly in the past, with militants taking cover among civilian populations to complicate security operations. They argue that these actions increase the danger to innocent people and create additional challenges for forces conducting counter-militancy operations.

The incident has also fueled debate on social media and in political circles. Security sources have called on local communities to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement agencies, and help prevent militant elements from operating within populated areas. Authorities maintain that public cooperation remains essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi met with Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam to discuss regional developments, bilateral relations, and opportunities for enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Iran. The meeting focused on strengthening mutual understanding and expanding collaboration in key areas of shared interest.

Both sides emphasized the importance of peace, dialogue, and regional stability amid evolving regional dynamics. They highlighted the need for continued diplomatic engagement and constructive cooperation to address common challenges and promote long-term prosperity.

The discussions also covered ways to boost trade, economic engagement, and people-to-people contacts. Opportunities for greater cooperation between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Iran through commercial, parliamentary, and cultural exchanges were explored, with Pakistan reaffirming its commitment to peace, regional connectivity, and constructive engagement.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Saudi media coverage has drawn attention after describing the BLA as “Indian-backed” while reporting on a recent Pakistan Army operation in which 17 militants were killed. The characterization has sparked discussion due to its appearance in Arab media reporting on security developments in Pakistan.

According to the reports, the military operation targeted BLA militants involved in activities that Pakistani authorities say threaten regional stability and security. The operation resulted in the elimination of 17 militants during engagements with security forces.

The coverage is being viewed as significant because Arab media outlets have rarely highlighted allegations regarding foreign support for the group in such direct terms. The development has added a new dimension to regional discussions surrounding militancy, security challenges, and cross-border concerns in the region.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Pakistan says efforts are continuing to secure the release of 10 Pakistani crew members being held hostage aboard the oil tanker Honour 25, which was hijacked by Somali pirates near the Somali coast on April 21. The vessel's 17-member crew includes nationals from Pakistan, Indonesia, India, and Myanmar.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said authorities are coordinating closely with relevant institutions, the ship's owner, and international stakeholders to ensure the safe release of the hostages. Pakistan's diplomatic missions in Somalia and Djibouti remain actively engaged, while officials continue to monitor developments on the ground.

The situation has become increasingly complex because the tanker is carrying highly dangerous and explosive cargo, making any rescue operation extremely sensitive. Islamabad has urged Somali authorities and the ship's owner to ensure that the hostages receive food, water, and other basic necessities, while assuring affected families that securing their release remains a top government priority.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Tech billionaire and X owner Elon Musk praised Pakistan’s judicial system after the Lahore High Court upheld the death sentences of two men convicted in the 2020 motorway gang-rape case. Reacting to the court's decision, Musk posted on X: “Bravo, Pakistan! This is what we should be doing in the West.”

The ruling was announced by a two-member bench of the Lahore High Court, which dismissed the appeals filed by the convicts and maintained all punishments awarded by the anti-terrorism court. The court upheld the death sentences along with additional prison terms and fines related to the crimes committed during the high-profile case.

Prosecutors stated that the convictions were supported by strong evidence, including DNA collected from the crime scene and investigative records that helped identify and arrest the accused. Officials described the case as a major test for the justice system and said the verdict reflects the state's commitment to ensuring accountability in serious criminal cases.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Pakistan has expressed hope that all parties involved will fully adhere to the ceasefire agreement and take necessary steps to ensure its continuation. Officials stressed that maintaining the truce is essential for reducing tensions and creating conditions for a lasting resolution to the conflict.

According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, repeated ceasefire violations and renewed clashes remain significant obstacles to peace efforts. The spokesperson noted that ongoing hostilities risk undermining diplomatic progress and prolonging instability in the region.

Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to diplomacy, stating that it will continue playing a constructive role as a facilitator and mediator. Despite challenges on the ground, Islamabad said it remains engaged with all concerned parties and will keep communication channels open to support dialogue and peaceful solutions.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

A brutal crime tested the system, but Pakistan’s courts delivered through evidence, due process, and upheld convictions. The world reacted, but the system acted. Justice is not noise, it is procedure.
#Justice #RuleOfLaw #pakistanmediagoesglobal

https://t.co/30ex5y0YJR

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Turkey has defended its ties with Pakistan after criticism from India.
Turkey has strongly defended its relationship with Pakistan after facing criticism from India over bilateral ties between the two countries. Speaking on the issue, the Turkish foreign minister dismissed concerns regarding Ankara’s engagement with Islamabad and emphasized that sovereign nations are free to maintain their diplomatic partnerships.
Turkish FM stated: “If India gets upset whenever a country has good relations with Pakistan, then it will end up being upset with many countries.”
Turkey and Pakistan share longstanding diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties, with cooperation spanning multiple sectors. The latest remarks underscore Ankara’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening its relationship with Islamabad despite external criticism.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Kuwait announced that its air defense systems successfully intercepted 13 Iranian ballistic missiles and 17 drones that entered the country's airspace amid rising regional tensions. Authorities said the interceptions helped prevent further casualties and damage, though debris fell in several locations across the country.

According to reports, fragments from intercepted missiles and drones struck multiple areas, causing damage to infrastructure and property. Kuwait International Airport was among the sites reportedly affected, with parts of the facility sustaining damage during the incident.

Officials said one Indian national was killed and several other individuals were injured as a result of the attacks and falling debris. The latest escalation has heightened concerns over regional secu-rity and the potential impact of continued hostilities across the Gulf region.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Hostilities in the Gulf intensified after a missile and drone att@ck damaged facilities at Kuwait International Airport, forcing flight suspensions and diversions. The escalation comes as diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran remain stalled despite discussions aimed at maintaining a fragile ceasefire.

The United States said its forces intercepted multiple Iranian drones and missiles targeting regional locations and carried out strikes near the Strait of Hormuz following reported threats to civilian vessels and military assets. Iran, meanwhile, condemned the US actions, accused regional states of facilitating military operations against it, and vowed to respond to future threats.

The renewed confrontation has raised concerns over regional stability, global energy supplies, and the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for international oil shipments. Oil prices climbed as tensions increased, while negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme and broader ceasefire arrangements showed little sign of immediate progress.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need for immediate follow-up on key decisions and memoranda of understanding signed during his recent visit to China. During a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad, the premier reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership with China.

The discussion focused on accelerating cooperation under CPEC 2.0, particularly in agriculture, information technology, special economic zones (SEZs), industries, and the mines and minerals sector. The prime minister stressed that both countries should work together to ensure timely implementation of agreements reached during the visit.

The meeting also covered the Karakoram Highway realignment project, economic and financial cooperation, and enhanced secu-rity, counter-terr0rism, and defence collaboration. The discussions come after Pakistan and China signed more than $7 billion worth of agreements and MoUs during the recent Pakistan-China Business-to-Business Investment Conference in Hangzhou.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi held a detailed meeting in Islamabad to review the law and order situation in the province and discuss ongoing efforts to counter terr0rism. The discussion focused on prevailing secu-rity challenges and measures aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the region.

During the meeting, Governor Kundi briefed the interior minister on the province’s secu-rity landscape. Both leaders paid tribute to the secu-rity forces for their successful intelligence-based operations against militants and honored the sacrifices of martyrs who lost their lives in the fight against terr0rism.

Mohsin Naqvi reiterated the federal government’s commitment to supporting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in its efforts to strengthen peace and secu-rity. He assured full cooperation to provincial authorities and emphasized that the sacrifices made by secu-rity personnel for lasting peace in the province would always be remembered.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Ahead of the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan general elections, 150 personnel from Islamabad Police’s Security Division have been assigned election duty in the region. The officers, who normally guard key government installations and provide protection for foreign delegations, are scheduled to depart for GB under enhanced secu-rity arrangements.

The deployment includes personnel from the Special Protection Unit, President House, Prime Minister House, Prime Minister Office, Foreign Office, and Islamabad’s high-security zone. Their mission is part of a broader election secu-rity plan that will see nearly 2,000 personnel deployed, including more than 6,000 officers from Punjab Police.

Meanwhile, Punjab Police convoys carrying election duty personnel have already started moving toward Gilgit-Baltistan under armed escort and emergency support. Authorities say extensive secu-rity measures are being implemented to ensure peaceful, secure, and transparent elections across the region on polling day.

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Gulf hostilities escalate as missile attacks hit Kuwait, US forces strike near the Strait of Hormuz, and US-Iran nuclear negotiations remain at a stalemate amid rising regional tensions.
https://t.co/n8iqmbmvx6

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Security Forces Kill 17 India-Backed Terrorists in Balochistan: ISPR
Security Forces Conduct Successful Intelligence-Based Operations
Pakistan’s security forces have killed 17 India-backed terrorists during a series of intelligence-based operations (IBOs) carried out across multiple districts of Balochistan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
https://t.co/3ma9NegKmo

[Ground Zero @GroundZeroPak]

Pakistan’s Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) has announced a significant oil and gas discovery at the Bobi Deep-1 exploratory well in Sanghar district, Sindh. The well successfully tested the Massive Sand interval of the Lower Goru Formation, producing 2,000 barrels of oil per day and 1.1 million standard cubic feet of gas daily.

According to OGDC, the discovery marks the first hydrocarbon find from the Massive Sand play within the Bobi and Dhamraki Mining Lease. The breakthrough confirms the reservoir's hydrocarbon potential and opens a new exploration window in the region, creating opportunities for future reserve additions and resource development.

The company said the success was achieved through indigenous expertise and collaboration with geological experts from the University of Sindh. The discovery is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s energy security, reduce reliance on imported fuels, expand domestic hydrocarbon reserves, and contribute positively to OGDC’s future earnings.