Stories from Islamabad · Pakistan

A source from the Pakistani Prime Minister's office stated that the nuclear program is undergoing changes and modifications. This statement was made in response to questions regarding potential military threats. The context suggests this request was made at the last minute.

The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) is transitioning into a fully functional regulatory body. The transition includes the launch of a regulatory sandbox for AI-powered payments and virtual asset services.

Unofficial Iranian media reported that Pakistan has requested action from the US President. The process involves both parties presenting counter-proposals that the other side currently deems unsuitable. The current dialogue is focused on finding acceptable terms between the two nations. The broadcaster reported that the Trump administration claimed the operation successfully eliminated all Iranian capabilities for constructing an arsenal and developing nuclear weapons. He criticized Italy and Spain for their lack of assistance. The broadcaster noted that the conflict with Iran has spread to Lebanon. He suggested he may consider similar withdrawals from other countries, citing a lack of assistance from Italy and criticism of Spain's role. A source from the Pakistan Prime Minister's Office told Al Jazeera that an figure requested Donald Trump to postpone a military decision at this stage.

Pakistan's IT Minister announced a government focus on cybersecurity to support the nation's transition toward a digital economy. The move comes amid discussions regarding the $119 billion global cybersecurity market and rising third-party risks.

Pakistan's Prime Minister reported during a cabinet meeting that the country's weekly oil import bill increased to $800 million. The increase is attributed to a sharp rise in global fuel prices caused by regional instability.

Six roads originating from Pakistan are reportedly being used to supply the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). These supplies include replenishment of magazines for Patriot air defense systems and other equipment.

Pakistan affirmed diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The mediation is being pursued at the highest level. Participants in the high-level discussions include Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister Isaac Herzog, and military leaders. Bloomberg reports that a decision regarding the deployment of a long-range, surface-to-surface missile is currently under study. The request for deployment was submitted by the US Central Command (CENTCOM). If approved, this would mark the first actual deployment of the Dark Eagle missile, which has a range of approximately 2,775 kilometers. The US Army signed a $2.7 billion contract in March 2026 for the missile. The system was previously tested in Australia in mid-2025.

Trade potential between Pakistan and Iran remains limited due to existing structural barriers. While Iran's maritime export ports are currently blocked, land-based trade routes through Pakistan could become if Iranian maritime access is further restricted.

Negotiations between the United States and Iran appear to be far from occurring despite indirect messaging through Pakistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that European-supported efforts are aimed at delaying conferences and ignoring known proposals, including those from the American side. The report noted that diplomatic ties are intended to strengthen despite Trump's individual actions. An official warned that Iran will take different countermeasures if the US refuses Iranian conditions. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also issued an audio statement regarding military deployments in the Red Sea and northern Arabian Sea. President Trump reported on April 29 that telephone negotiations between the U.S. CRI News Radio reports that while negotiations have made progress, it remains uncertain if Iranian concessions will meet US requirements.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on April 29 that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Pakistan last week for multiple rounds of comprehensive talks.