International

Trump’s invitation pulls Pakistan into a structured Gaza peace mechanism, widening Muslim-world representation while positioning Islamabad as a bridge-building actor focused on ceasefire, aid access, and civilian protection. — FILE/THE THURSDAY TIMES
Pakistan is framing a new defence agreement with Libya as proof that indigenous military manufacturing is becoming a bigger export engine and a tool of diplomacy as global confidence in Islamabad rises. — FILE
A file photo is shown of the Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Hafiz Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, NI HI. — FILE/THE THURSDAY TIMES
An Indian Air Force Rafale lifts off a runway with trees blurred behind it

Blackmail written in blood

Kabul’s protection of TTP commanders is not a glitch in the system; it is the system, a living covenant that weighs more than any clause signed in Doha. The Taliban in Afghanistan are no longer guests or leverage to be casually traded away; they have hardened into a parallel sovereignty that Kabul cannot fully control.

Afghan officials in uniform check documents at desks in a crowded customs hall at Torkham

Hindu hate-preacher vows to erase Islam after Zohran’s win

When a priest with his record can promise the erasure of the Prophet’s name and still function within the margins of acceptability, it is the Indian state’s commitment to secular democracy that is under forensic examination, not just his words.

Narsinghanand is by now a central figure in India’s organised hate architecture. Head priest of the Dasna Devi temple in Ghaziabad, with a documented record of inflammatory speeches and multiple FIRs, he rose to national prominence around the Dasna temple incident and through a steady stream of anti-Muslim invective. — FILE
Pakistan eyes crypto trading legalisation to boost global investment push. — ORIGINAL/THE THURSDAY TIMES
An illustration is shown of a bull and the Pakistani flag. — FILE/THE THURSDAY TIMES
Netanyahu testifies in corruption trial amid Gaza conflict and ICC arrest warrant. — FILE/AFP
Jay Graber, the lead behind Bluesky’s decentralised, user-driven platform offers an escape from traditional social media’s limitations, quickly gaining millions of users. — BLUESKY
Published by Thursday Media International thursday.media