Down The Line |
The Great Deception—what lies beneath the shifting sands of modern conflict? Ever thought about how today's battles aren't fought with bullets, but with bytes? ⤵️
[1/8]
From a Proud Legacy to a Joyful Victory!
Meet Hamza Khan, 17-year-old sensation who brought glory back to Pakistan in Squash after 37 long years.
Hailing from non-legendary Khan Squash family, his journey showcases the triumph of determination & talent.
#SAT
Infovision: Decoding the Terror Web, "TTP & it's Sub-groups'.
Find out a comprehensive visual guide to the prominent sub-groups of TTP vis a vis
#TTP
commanders neutralized in
#Afghanistan
.⤵️
Just IN: Joint operation of intelligence agencies saved Pakistan's capital Islamabad from catastrophe.
CTD & intelligence agencies arrested 4 terrorists, also recovered 5 kg of explosives. The accused had planned terrorism in a meeting of political parties.
#Afghanistan
Watch: Afghan cricketer Zadran's political statement about the illegal migrants sparked controversy.
In a recent
#ICCCricketWorldCup
match, Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran stirred controversy by dedicating his Man of the Match award to illegal immigrants being sent
Pakistan: Indian attempt to win permanent membership of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is blocked as the forum accepts Pakistan's stance over India's continued violations of the UNSC resolutions.
SAT Shorts |
Eight Former Indian Naval Officers have been detained by the Qatari State Security Bureau for alleged charges of espionage for last three months. Indian Ministry of External Affairs is trying to seek consular services.
Islamabad Watch |
On Saturday 20th July, Pakistan formed a committee to identify companies to boycott for supporting Israel in its offensive on Gaza. The move came after a deal between the government and a far-right political party called Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
"A
Commentary |
What flipped the switch from escalation to de-escalation in the Pak-Iran showdown? - A saga of calculated communication and military precision! ⤵️
Kashmir Watch |
India twists facts & churns out lies at UNSC, an embarrassment for New Delhi,
@PakistanUN_NY
.
Condemning Indian violations against IIOJK children, Pak's 2nd Sec Rabia Ijaz exposes 🇮🇳 support for TTP & BLA in attacks on Pakistani children.
Thread | Fault Lines Emerge: Can IEA Control a Disillusioned TTP?
Is the honeymoon phase over b/w the IEA & TTP? Experts warn of a growing rift that could destabilize the region. With fault lines emerging, Can the IEA Control a Disillusioned TTP?
Let's take a deeper look:⤵️+
Commentary |
In a recent Al Jazeera article published on January 19th, eyebrows are raised over the assertion of potential collaboration between Pakistan and Iran in a strike within Pakistan. - What elements contribute to skepticism? Here are a few facts ⤵️
Iran |
The head of the IRGC's intelligence unit in the Quds Force, Brigadier General Youssef Omid Zadeh (Sadiq), has been killed in an Israeli air strike in the tightly guarded western Damascus neighborhood of Mazzeh.
Alongside him, his deputy, identified as Hajj Gholam, also
Commentary| Biden linking Economic woes with Xenophobia
What has stalled the economic growth of India, China, Russia and Japan? Acc. to US President Joe Biden, xenophobia is responsible for the deterioration of economic growth.
Just IN: Pakistan’s PM Imran Khan names Donald Lu, US Assistant Secretary of State for South & Central Asian Affairs, as the person who met with the officials of Pakistan embassy to convey Biden-admin demand for regime change in Pakistan.
Absolutely! Pakistan is indeed an anchor of regional and global stability and a model of strategic restraint.
However, recent events have propelled the nation into a calculated response, and here’s why:
1⃣ The Iranian regime's meddling in the Middle East has been driven by a
If reports of Pakistan 🇵🇰 conducting strikes against terrorist groups operating from Iran 🇮🇷 are true, we now face a very dangerous and unpredictable situation.
For years, Iran has actively curated terrorists that target Pakistan—worst of all, Iran works with India to undermine
Fact Check |
Dhruv Rathee slams false claims of being Pakistani Muslim. He is well-known for his criticism on Modi and ruling BJP has frequently targeted him. The false claims that Rathee was born in Lahore, and that his true name is Badru Rashid Lahori.
Commentary | Pak-Iran Crisis
Iran's recent air strikes inside Pakistan, ostensibly targeting a militant faction, Jaish Al-Adl, have left a trail of questions.
Why did Iran opt for such a provocative move without utilizing existing communication channels?
Commentary | US and Pakistan pledge to boost cooperation
In last 30 Days, 3 high profiles delegations visited-Pak, the Saudis, Iranian Pres. and now US high profile delegation under John Bass.
Pak and US reaffirmed their commitment to enhance bilateral ties.
Pakistan Watch |
Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif received a grand welcome at the Great Hall of People, a symbol of China's rich history & culture.
This visit is set to strengthen Pak-China ties, boost economic cooperation & pave the way for new opportunities.
Global Watch |
Rapid response militants kill over 100 civilians in Wad Al-Noora village, Al-Jazira State of Sudan. The village has been under siege since Wednesday.
The ongoing civil war has claimed thousands of lives, injured many, and displaced millions.
Commentary | Our newly joined young scholar
@i_simranjanjua
explores TTP's relocation to Ghazni.
TTP on the move: From Af-Pak border to Afghanistan's interior. What's behind the shift, how does it impact regional security, what are the challenges? Take a look! ⤵️
Global Watch |
Pyongyang to deploy military engineering unit next month, escalating involvement in Ukraine conflict. Pentagon questions wisdom of deployment,citing high casualties among Russian forces.
Earlier, Russia & Korea signed defense pact,during Putin's visit to N.Korea.
SAT Infovision |
With many tax exemptions & reliefs rolled off, Pakistan's Budget 2024-25 looks the best shot amidst tight economic conditions.
Here's a snapshot of all you need to know👇
Commentary | Putin warns West: Russia ready to use nuclear weapons if Territory threatened
Acc to Reuters, Pres Putin cautioned West that Russia could use all available means, including nuclear weapons,to defend itself if its sovereignty or territorial integrity were threatened.
Thread | Tipu Sultan — Tiger of Mysore
"Voltaire called him 'a bold innovator who died defending his homeland.'
Today in 1799, Tipu Sultan was martyred while defending his fort against British in 4th Anglo-Mysore War. He was symbol of resistance against British colonialism.
Iran Watch |
Iranians went to the polls on June 28, 2024, to elect a new pres, following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19. With no candidate securing a majority, a runoff vote is set for July 5 between Masoud Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili. +
#SAT
Shorts: On this Day August 5, 2019 India rebuked the Article 370 and 35-A.
Since the abrogation of these articles Indian illegally occupied Jammu & Kashmir has been facing the Indian forces atrocities.
#یوم_استحصال_کشمیر
Here's all you need to know: 👇
#SATAnalysis
: How can the Doha Agreement and the rift between Pakistan and Afghanistan impact the fight against the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and regional stability? A Thread ⤵️
Global Watch |
A controversial report in "Türkiye Gazetesi" claims 4,000 Jews from Turkey are fighting in the Gaza Strip, with 400 traveling directly from Turkey.
The report alleges that 65 of these Turkish Zionists have been killed and 110 wounded in the conflict. +
India Watch |
Indian Barrister Amogh Mund appeals to Pak and UN Human Rights Council for support, highlighting the plight of millions of Indian men suffering due to the BJP's controversial policies and biased laws, leading to widespread mental health issues and suicides. +
Commentary |
Pakistan's rice exports are booming, but water scarcity looms. Can Pakistan's rice sector thrive without draining its water reserves? argues
@Najamulhassann5
⤵️
Commentary | BJP's Seizure of Kashmiri Properties
The BJP regime continues its crackdown in IIOJK. Properties of 2 civilians in Baramulla district have been confiscated, recently.
This action adds to growing list of property seizures aimed at silencing pro-freedom voices. 1/6
Thread | Pakistan's Annual Budget 2024-25: Key Takeaways
Pakistan's Federal Budget 2024-25 worth Rs18.887 trillion has been presented by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
The budget focuses on sustainable growth, economic stability, and relief for the salaried class. +
Commentary| Canada police make arrests over killing of Sikh activist
To begin with, arrests in last year’s killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar are set to fuel more diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. All these incidents are evidence of Indian “Transnational Regression”.
Historical Maps |
Check out this rare 17th-century map of Bengal, created by the East India Company in 1680-1703. Titled 'A Mapp of the Greate River Ganges', it's a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.
Courtesy: Philip Thornton & Archeological Survey of India archives.
Fact Check | Debunking Anti-CPEC Propaganda
Contrary to misconceptions, CPEC is a landmark project for regional connectivity, set to create millions of jobs, reduce poverty & boost 🇵🇰's economy.
Facts:
🔸CPEC is network of transportation, energy & industrial infrastructure. +
Showbiz Watch |
After years of struggles due to pandemic, economic issues & political instability, Pakistani cinema is set for revival this Eid ul Adha 2024.
Several big movies are slated for release, promising to draw audiences back to theaters and rejuvenate the industry. +
Commentary |
On the morning of January 21, reports emerged of a plane crash in the Zibak district of Badakhshan province, Afghanistan, with the details surrounding the incident shrouded in mystery and conflicting tales.
The aircraft in question was identified as a 45-year-old
Sports Watch |
Pakistan qualified for the semi finals of Asian Team Squash Championship 2024 in dalian, China after 9 years by beating India the Quarter Finals.
A Historic and Well Deserved Victory for Pakistan!
Thread | Pakistan and China Enhance Strategic Partnership with Major Investment Initiatives
Pakistan has identified 13 priority sectors for top Chinese companies to invest in, aiming to boost export-oriented growth. This move follows PM Sharif’s “milestone” 5-day visit to China.
Commentary |
From 1947 to 1978, only 11 blasphemy cases were recorded. However, from 1987 to 2021, these incidents surged by a staggering 1300%.
From tolerance to tragedy, how did Pakistan get here?
A glimpse by
@i_simranjanjua
⤵️
Gaza Watch |
The events following Oct 7 became a test for countries worldwide to put to practice all the lofty claims of human rights.
While largely the response remained slow in the face of unimaginable brutality, we recorded some 'firsts' that happened since then. +
Global Watch |
The families of 9/11 victims suing the Saudi Arabian gov for its alleged role in the attacks face a new hurdle.
The US Dept of Justice & FBI have urged a judge to block the release of certain evidence, citing privacy concerns and the need for further review. +
Sports Watch |
Another Javelin Star for Pakistan After Arshad Nadeem!
Pakistan's javelin thrower Yasir Sultan won a silver medal in the Asian Throwing Championship in Korea. 🇵🇰🥈
Rumesh Tharanga of Sri Lanka won gold with 85.45m throw. Yasir came second with 78.10.
Feature |
As India reflects on a decade of Modi in the Prime Minister’s Office, the journey reveals a troubling trajectory marked by erosion of democratic values, economic upheavals, and controversial international policies. A take by SAT's
@Ms_HKS
⤵️
🔗
India Watch |
In Jabalpur, a rally by VHP & B. Dal workers spewed hate speech against Muslims, threatening violence & genocide. Chants of "Kathmulla/Muslim, leave Katangi or face consequences" echo chilling warnings.
Will we not see any change in behaviour of Hindutva mobs?
Security Desk |
In an intelligence-led operation in Sambaza, Zhob District, Balochistan, security forces engaged and eliminated three terrorists, recovering a cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives. 1/2
Global Watch | Indian-born, UK’s Billionaire Family Jailed in Switzerland for Exploiting Staff
A Swiss court sentenced 🇮🇳born business tycoon Prakash Hinduja, along with 3 other members of his family—Britain's wealthiest—for exploiting domestic staff at their mansion in Geneva.+
Pakistan Watch |
Pakistan is elected as the 2nd Vice Chair & Rapporteur of 67th Session of
@UN
Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), marking its first-ever position in COPUOS Bureau. +
Afghanistan Watch |
Third round of UN-hosted talks on Afg begins in Doha.
Taliban delegation joins international envoys to discuss key issues, which includes enabling private sector and counter-narcotics efforts along with regional security and threats emanating from Afg soil.
India Watch |
In Indian assembly session, 241 opposition MPs entered Parliament together, holding copies of the Indian Constitution.
They stood in solidarity against the government's alleged attempts to undermine democracy. 1/2
Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | A Round-up
2024 polls have reshaped India's political landscape! With BJP-led NDA falling short of a "abki baar, 400-paar", what's next?
Can INDIA leverage its gains to drive significant change, or will BJP's strategies continue to dominate?⤵️
Commentary | The Longest Street Bazar of South Asia
You start walking through this bazaar lane & it shows no signs of ending. Probably you are in the longest street bazaar of South Asia - the Tench Bhatta Bazaar in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. +
Trade Watch |
The Badini Trade Terminal is now operational, connecting Afg, Pak & China!
This historic development will boost trade, create jobs, and curb smuggling in the region. The governments of Afg, Pak & China are committed to completing the terminal by December 2024. +
Kashmir Watch |
UNESCO affiliate, World Crafts Council, designates Srinagar, the most militarized summer capital of IIOJK, as a 'World Craft City' for its rich cultural heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. +
SAT Shorts
The great partition in South Asia left some unsettled & unresolved issues.
Watch ⬇️ to see what these issues are & what challenges they pose.
Economy Watch |
Pakistan sets its sights on the global stage!
The government aims to secure a seat at the G20 summit and achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2030, driven by bold reforms, fiscal discipline, and infrastructure development. 1/3
Commentary | Heeramandi, A Flop Story
Lahore’s Heeramandi was very different in 1940s from what is shown in India’s Netflix release.
Imagine a series meant to capture dread of tawaifs instead shows them as star-studded queens living luxurious lives.
A disappointment, right?
Sports Watch |
Afghanistan makes history by defeating Australia in the super 8 match of T20 World Cup 2024 by 21 runs. They defeated Aus for the very first time in any format of the game.
A display of class batting, bowling and gigantic fielding by the Afghanistan Cricket team.
Diplomacy Watch |
Spokesperson of MEA, Randhir Jaiswal, reaffirmed India's stance on Shaksgam Valley. He said that, "India rejects 1963 China Pak Boundary Agreement, which attempted to cede area to China unlawfully. India has consistently protested against this agreement." 1/4
Commentary | SCO Astana Summit: A New Era of Cooperation or Tectonic Shift to the Global Politics?
Astana hosted the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on July 3-4. The summit addressed key regional issues and provided a
Sri Lanka Watch |
Discover the ancient marvel of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka!
This 200-meter tall rock fortress showcases 5th-century ingenuity, breathtaking stonework, and exquisite wall art. +
Pak-China Watch |
Pakistan's tech future gets a boost!
Huawei agrees to train a massive 200,000 students in cutting-edge skills and provides cloud services. The deal was finalized with a celebration of Pakistani culture, showcasing the country's vibrant spirit.
Pakistan Watch |
🇵🇰 urges the UN Security Council to pressure Afghan gov to take action against TTP amid ongoing cross-border terrorist attacks.
Pak's rep. to UN Munir Akram, calls on Security Council to demand that the IEA prevent cross-border attacks & disarm terrorists. +
SAT Infographic |
On this World Day Against Child Labor, we shine a light on persistent issue of child labor in South Asia.
Despite efforts to combat it, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in child labor, with more children forced into hazardous work due to economic stress.
Af-Pak Watch |
"Pakistan has hosted over 5 M Afghan refugees for over 40 years, with 1.4 M registered & another 1 M unregistered, & thousands more undocumented", said Amb Munir Akram at the ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment 2024. +
Commentary | Exposing Maharang Baloch: Her Support for Terrorism and Hypocrisy
Mahrang Baloch, accompanied by Norway resident Qadir Baloch, participated in a propaganda event at Literature House Oslo on May 24, addressing enforced disappearances and media control in 🇵🇰.
Pakistan Watch |
Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN, Munir Akram, challenges the US stance on Palestine, calling for fairness on both sides.
He said that Palestine needs full UN membership for equal talks with Israel. He also emphasized the level playing field for negotiations.
Commentary |
The capture and public confession of Gulzar Imam, alias Shambay, the commander of the Baloch Nationalist Army (BNA), last year marked a significant achievement for Pakistan’s counter-insurgency efforts.+
Diplomacy Watch |
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif kicks off 5-day visit to China to boost ties, advance CPEC development & expand cooperation in new technologies.
He assures Chinese investors that his gov is taking steps to curb corruption and create ease of doing business in Pak.
Thread | Women in Afghanistan a Historical Perspective
"Who were the veiled queens and warriors that shaped Afg's past? Let’s unveil the history of Afghan women.
Rural Afg, that is to say, paved way as the root of tribal power and has frequently resisted modernization efforts.
Is the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement gaining traction worldwide?
Does BDS hold the key to ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Ft
@usamaqazafi333
Thread | Pakistani Students in Bishkek Face Mob Violence
Pakistani students in Bishkek faced mob violence late Friday night, resulting in numerous injuries.
No deaths have been confirmed. The violence followed a brawl b/w locals and Egyptian nationals earlier this week.
Maldives Watch |
Maldives bans Israeli passport holders from entering the country in response to the ongoing war in Gaza.
The country has also launched a national fundraising campaign, "Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine", showing support for Palestine.
SAT Podcasts |
Exclusive: Coming Soon 👇
Words, Not Bombs: AI and the Nuclear Deterrence in South Asia
Ft:
@Anum_A_Khan
in conversation with
@Ms_HKS
Only on South Asia Times
Thread | Anecdote of US-Israel Relationship: A Historic Perspective
It was March 1948; Truman was Pres of US. One morning, he had guest old friend Eddie Jacobson, an American Jewish businessman. Jacobson requested meeting btw Truman and Weizmann, a prominent Zionist leader. +
Thread| Fear in Shadows: Why American voices are being stifled by a supposed friend
To begin with,
@voxdotcom
article, “Everyone is absolutely terrified”: Inside a US ally’s secret war on its American critics" by Beauchamp, discusses India's campaign of transnational repression.
Diplomacy Watch |
🇵🇰 has declared a national day of mourning to honor the memory of Iranian Pres Raisi and his companions who lost their lives in helicopter crash.
As mark of solidarity with Iran, country will observe a day of mourning and fly national flag at half-mast. 1/2
Thread | India’s 2024 elections may bring a new political epoch
For election specialists known as psephologists, Indian elections are nothing short of a nightmare.
First of all, the exercise's scope is astounding. In India, one out of every six adults is enrolled to vote.
SAT Event Highlights |
South Asia Times recently held an insightful Roundtable Discussion regarding Indian Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The event focused on key themes related to the elections and their broader implications.
Here are the highlights of SAT's amazing event 👇
Indian Elections Watch |
Lok Sabha Election 2024 IIOJK: Kashmiris reject BJP proxies and dynastic party leaders, NC wins Srinagar and Anantnag-Rajouri seats, independent candidates win in Baramulla and Laddakh.
High voter turnout signals resistance against BJP's influence.
Commentary | Sharif’s Beijing trip: Can China-Pakistan Economic Corridor be revived?
On 3rd June, PM Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Shenzhen as he kicked off a five-day visit to China.
Thread | The Tale of Basmati Rice
Once upon a time, in the lush plains of the Subcontinent, Basmati rice, a legendary grain, was born. It grew in the shadow of the majestic Himalayas, where the soil was rich and the rivers nourished the land.
Origins and the First Mention
The
🔔 Event Alert | Roundtable Discussion on India's Elections
Indian elections are halfway through, and stakes are high. South Asia Times (SAT) hosts an in-depth Roundtable with expert panelists on trends, outcomes, and regional/global implications.
Save the date!
Breaking |
Pakistan conducts precision strikes on BLF and BLA terrorist camps in Iran, resulting in casualties and damage.
Images released by Iranian media from Saravan depict the aftermath of Pakistani drone and rocket attacks on BLA and BLF bases.
SAT Infographic |
Pakistan: 26 years of harnessing nuclear power for safe and civilian use.
By 2050, nuclear reactors will generate 44,000MW of electricity.
Additionally, cancer treatment, agri-research, and climate resilience tech - all driven by atoms!
SAT Roundtable | Highlights
As India approaches the final phase of its Lok Sabha elections, South Asia Times (SAT) hosted a roundtable discussion on 28th May 2024, to analyze the ongoing electoral process, anticipated outcomes, and their implications for South Asia and beyond. +
Pakistan Watch |
Pakistan Armed Forces condemn the heinous acts of violence on May 9th, 2023, a day that will be remembered as a shameful attempt to destabilize the country.
The perpetrators sought to undermine national stability, but their sinister plans were foiled. 1/2
Global Watch |
Canada designates Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a "terrorist organization".
Minister of Public Safety, Dominic LeBlanc, announces that IRGC commanders & members will be barred from entering Canada & may face investigation & deportation if already in the country.
Thread| Anecdote of “Transnational Repression” Under Modi’s Authoritarian Regime
From Kalbushan to Vikram Yadev the interconnected series depicts India’s rogue behaviour stemming from regional to transnational level.
SAT Shorts |
Modi's victory in 2024 Lok Sabha elections has significant implications for regional politics, especially concerning India-Pakistan relations.
This win may affect diplomatic ties, regional stability, and economic cooperation in South Asia.
Ft:
@usamaqazafi333
Economy Watch |
The World Bank has approved $1 bn in additional financing for Pakistan’s Dasu Hydropower Project in Upper Kohistan.
This funding aims to expand hydropower electricity, improve local socio-economic services, & enhance Wapda’s capacity for future projects. (1/2)
Commentary | Toxic Air: Pakistan's Silent Killer
Air pollution in 🇵🇰 is adding to the number of premature deaths in the country. A recent survey found that pollution from man-made emissions and other sources is responsible for a significant number of premature deaths worldwide.
Gaza Watch |
'All Eyes on Rafah' campaign reaches 35M+ on Instagram, protesting Israel's invasion of Gaza. Bollywood Celebs, Politicians and Musicians from around the world, posted the same image on their Insta handles.
AI image evades moderation despite Meta accusations.
India Watch |
India's socio-political landscape is marred by concerning trends. The Global Gender Gap Index 2024 ranks India 129th out of 146 countries, with a meager 64.1% closure of the gender gap. +
Commentary | Exposing Human Rights Decline in Modi's India
A US Congressional Research Service (CRS) [
@CRSOfficial
] report titled "India: Human Rights Assessment" highlights severe human rights decline under Modi's administration.