Major developments in Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and the wider region.
The World Bank raised its 2026 growth forecast for South Asia to 6.9%, citing stronger-than-expected activity while warning that energy shocks, extreme weather and global uncertainty remain risks.
Guterres and Ishaq Dar discussed regional security and Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in Islamabad as the UN chief began his October 6–8 visit.
Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia say they will move to practical implementation of collective-defense commitments and prepare agreed forces and capabilities for rapid deployment in the kingdom.
The International Criminal Court has unsealed four arrest warrants in its Afghanistan investigation, including warrants against two Taliban education officials, over alleged crimes against humanity involving gender-based persecution.
Shehbaz Sharif conditions talks on ending PTI’s march, while Punjab restricts gatherings and the procession’s next stages remain planned.
Amir Khan Muttaqi said disputes with Pakistan can be resolved diplomatically while accusing Islamabad of relying on military pressure. Pakistan says it supports dialogue but demands action against militants.
Before-and-after false-color MODIS images from September 20 and 29 show the Gandak-Narayani River widening after torrential rain pushed water levels to records in Nepal and Bihar.
UNAMA says it verified at least 10 civilian deaths, most of them children, and nine injuries following Pakistani strikes in Afghanistan. Pakistan says the operation targeted militant hideouts and killed 22 militants.
Afghanistan says its forces killed 28 fighters and captured 32 others in Nuristan after a group crossed from Pakistan. Islamabad rejects Kabul’s allegations of Pakistani state involvement as baseless.
Pakistan said it struck 10 sites in Afghanistan used to store and launch drones after detecting attacks from across the border; Afghan officials said four civilians were killed and denied Taliban authorities launched the drones.
