This edition of Pakistan Unveiled provides a comprehensive overview of Pakistan’s internal and external developments during the first half of August 2025. Domestically, key highlights include the launch of the long-delayed Sukkur–Hyderabad Motorway project, calls from the opposition alliance TTAP for a new Charter of Democracy, the historic induction of women into the Border Military Police, and renewed debates on judicial independence and human rights. Security updates cover the induction of Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopters, counterterrorism operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, the rise of drone and IED-based militant attacks, and the exposure of cryptocurrency networks in terror financing. The devastating monsoon floods, intensified by climate change, underscored the country’s environmental vulnerability, while welfare measures were announced for Arbaeen pilgrims.
In external affairs, Pakistan deepened ties with major partners. With the United States, Islamabad secured its first-ever crude oil imports, welcomed Washington’s designation of the BLA as a foreign terrorist organisation, and held counterterrorism talks. Relations with China advanced through the launch of the PRSS-1 satellite, next-phase CPEC cooperation, Gwadar port investments, and textile ventures in Punjab. Regional diplomacy included the Iranian president’s visit yielding 12 agreements, strategic dialogue with the UK, defence honours from Turkiye, and Pakistan’s proactive role in shaping a Global Plastics Treaty. Tensions with India resurfaced over Indus waters following a Hague Tribunal ruling.
Overall, the period reflects Pakistan’s simultaneous pursuit of domestic stability, defence modernisation, climate resilience, and international partnerships, even as it continues to grapple with terrorism, governance challenges, and socio-economic pressures
