Stay updated with the latest developments in Pakistan. Here are the top headlines shaping the nation today:
1. Gold Prices Decline Amid Global Market Uncertainty
Gold prices in Pakistan have seen a downturn, aligning with a global drop in bullion markets. On June 17, 2025, the price per tola fell, reflecting volatility driven by the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict and fluctuations in the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar. This comes after a record high of Rs363,000 per tola on June 15, as reported by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association.
2. Pakistan Closes Borders with Iran Due to Escalating Conflict
Pakistan has indefinitely shut all border crossings with Iran due to the intensifying Israel-Iran conflict, which has disrupted regional travel and airspace. The closure, announced on June 16, has impacted trade and movement, with missiles from both nations affecting neighboring countries’ airspace.
3. Central Bank Likely to Hold Policy Rate Amid Regional Tensions
The State Bank of Pakistan is expected to maintain its policy rate on June 17, 2025, as inflationary pressures rise due to global commodity price spikes triggered by the Israel-Iran conflict. Despite earlier expectations of a rate cut, analysts now cite the risk of imported inflation from higher oil prices. The bank forecasts inflation between 5.5% and 7.5% for the fiscal year.
4. Pakistan Rejects Claims of Supplying Ballistic Missiles to Iran
Security sources in Pakistan have dismissed reports alleging the country supplied non-nuclear ballistic missiles to Iran. These claims, which surfaced amid the Israel-Iran conflict, were labeled “baseless” by officials on June 15, 2025. Diplomatic sources also refuted a fake statement circulating on social media about Pakistan’s involvement in the standoff.
5. Defence Budget Hike Sparks Debate
Pakistan’s 20% increase in defence spending, totaling 2.55 trillion rupees ($9 billion) for the 2025-26 fiscal year, has raised eyebrows. The hike, the largest in a decade, follows recent border clashes with India. Despite a 6.9% reduction in the overall budget, the military allocation has drawn scrutiny amid economic reliance on IMF loans.
6. Women’s ODI World Cup: India vs. Pakistan Match Set for October 5
Cricket fans are gearing up for the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash at the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, scheduled for October 5 in Colombo. Hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka, the tournament will see Pakistan play all matches at neutral venues under a hybrid model agreed upon by the BCCI and PCB.
7. Solar Panel Demand Surges Amid Rising Electricity Costs
With escalating electricity prices and frequent load-shedding, Pakistanis are increasingly turning to solar energy. Solar panel prices range from Rs7,000 to Rs19,000, while solar water pumps cost between Rs31,000 and Rs115,000. A 3kW solar system is now considered sufficient for an average household’s needs.
8. Crackdown on Afghan Refugees Continues
Pakistan’s ongoing crackdown on Afghan refugees has intensified, with deadlines set earlier this year for repatriation. By June 30, 2025, Afghan Citizen Card holders and those with Proof of Registration face deportation. Camps near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border report a steady influx of repatriated families.
9. Petrol Prices Rise Again
The federal government increased petrol prices by Rs4.80 per litre on June 16, 2025, following a Re1 hike on June 1. This marks another blow to consumers grappling with economic challenges, with no price relief in sight.
10. Women’s Football Gains Momentum
The Pakistan Football Federation has announced its squad for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, set for June 29 to July 5 in Jakarta. A training camp will be held in Islamabad from June 19 to 26, reflecting growing interest in women’s football despite cricket’s dominance.
Note: For the latest updates, check trusted sources like Pakistan Observer, ARY News, and Al Jazeera. Stay informed and safe amid ongoing regional developments.