International

274 Taliban Fighters Dead, 400 Wounded in Fierce Border Fighting; 12 Pakistani Soldiers Killed, 27 Injured

February 27, 2026 by NOK Desk

Tensions along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border have sharply escalated after Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, following a series of cross-border attacks. According to Pakistan’s military spokesperson, the clashes resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, marking one of the most intense phases of fighting in recent years.

Massive Exchange of Fire Across 53 Locations

The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, said that Afghan Taliban forces opened fire at 53 different locations across 15 sectors along the border. Pakistani forces responded immediately, repelling all attacks. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Military officials described the fighting as fierce and prolonged, involving artillery, drones, and armoured units. Explosions were reported in multiple sectors as both sides engaged in heavy shelling.

Heavy Taliban Losses Reported

According to the official briefing:

274 Taliban fighters were killed
More than 400 were wounded
74 Taliban posts were completely destroyed
18 checkpoints are now under Pakistani control
115 tanks and armoured vehicles were destroyed

Pakistan claims that its forces targeted only military installations and armed positions. Several hideouts linked to militant groups were reportedly struck in Kabul, Paktia, and Kandahar.

Pakistani Casualties Confirmed

On the Pakistani side, the military confirmed:

12 soldiers were killed
27 soldiers were injured

Officials described the fallen soldiers as brave personnel who lost their lives while defending border posts against coordinated attacks.

Air and Drone Operations

The Pakistan Air Force carried out targeted strikes on key Taliban positions, including reported hits on an Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Kabul and another installation in Kandahar. Night-time explosions were seen across parts of Kabul during the operation.

Meanwhile, drone attacks attempted in Abbottabad and Nowshera were successfully intercepted, preventing further damage.

No Distinction Between Regime and Militants

During the briefing, Pakistan’s military leadership stated that there is “no difference” between the Afghan Taliban regime and militant groups operating from Afghan soil. Officials argued that the operation is aimed at protecting Pakistan’s citizens and ensuring border security.

Operation Continues

Authorities confirmed that Operation Ghazab Lil Haq is ongoing under the direction of Pakistan’s Prime Minister. The military says operations will continue until all objectives are achieved and cross-border threats are eliminated.

The recent escalation has raised serious concerns about regional stability. With heavy casualties on both sides, the situation remains tense, and further developments are being closely watched by the international community.

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International

Pakistan Attacks Afghanistan in ‘Operation Ghazab lil-Haq’, Says It Killed 133 Taliban Fighters and injured 200

February 27, 2026 by NOK Desk

Pakistan and Afghanistan are now in a serious fight along their border. Pakistan started a big military action called Operation Ghazab lil-Haq (which means something like “Wrath for the Truth” or “Righteous Anger”).

Pakistan says this started because Afghan Taliban soldiers attacked Pakistani posts on Thursday night. The attacks happened in areas like Chitral, Khyber, Mohmand, Kurram, and Bajaur in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Pakistan used airplanes to bomb important Taliban defense places in Afghanistan. These include the big cities: Kabul (the capital), Kandahar, and Paktia. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said:

133 Afghan Taliban fighters were killed.
More than 200 were hurt.
27 Taliban posts were destroyed.
9 posts were taken over by Pakistan.
Many tanks, guns, and other vehicles were also destroyed.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called it an “open war“. He said Pakistan’s patience is over and they will fight strongly.

The Afghan Taliban says Pakistan’s attacks were wrong. Their spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the bombs hit Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia, but claimed no big losses for them. Instead, Afghanistan says they killed 55 Pakistani soldiers and took some posts in return.

Both sides blame each other. Pakistan says the Taliban helps groups that attack Pakistan (like TTP). Afghanistan says Pakistan is breaking their land rules.

Other countries like Iran offered to help talk and stop the fighting. The United Nations and others asked both sides to stay calm so it does not become a bigger war.This is one of the worst fights between the two countries in many years. The situation is still going on, and more actions may happen.

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International

Pakistan Declares “Open War” on Afghanistan After Airstrikes; Kabul Claims 55 Soldiers Killed in Retaliation

February 27, 2026 by NOK Desk

Cross-border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan escalated sharply on Friday, with Islamabad declaring “open war” on Kabul after carrying out airstrikes in parts of Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, further intensifying tensions between the two neighbouring countries.

In a post on X, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, issued a strong statement declaring the “open war” against Afghanistan, stating that Islamabad has lost its patience and accusing the Taliban-led administration of harbouring militants. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“After the withdrawal of NATO forces, it was expected that there would be peace in Afghanistan and that the Taliban would focus on the interests of the Afghan people and peace in the region…They gathered all the terrorists of the world in Afghanistan and began exporting terrorism. They deprived their own people of basic human rights. They snatched away the rights that Islam grants to women,” his post read.

“Our cup of patience has overflowed. Now it is open war between us and you. Now it will be ‘Dama Dam Mast Qalandar’. Pakistan’s army did not come from across the seas. We are your neighbours; we know your ins and outs. Allahu Akbar,” the Pakistani Defence Minister added.

Following the Pakistani strikes on Afghan soil, Afghanistan’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, condemned the attack, calling the act by the Pakistani military “cowardly”.

“The cowardly Pakistani military has carried out airstrikes in certain areas of Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia; fortunately, there have been no reported casualties,” Mujahid said in a statement on X.

The escalation comes amid heightened tensions between Islamabad and the Taliban-led administration in Kabul over cross-border security concerns along the Durand Line, the border drawn by the British in the 19th century, which has remained a topic of dispute between the two countries.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of National Defence of Afghanistan said that 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed in retaliatory operations carried out along the Durand Line on Thursday.

In a press release, the ministry said the action was launched at 8:00 PM on the 9th of Ramadan, corresponding to February 26, in response to what it described as a violation of Afghan territory by Pakistani military forces days earlier.

“A few days ago, the Pakistani military circles, with great audacity, violated Afghan territory, breached our borders, and martyred women and children here,” the statement read.

“In these retaliatory operations along the Durand Line, a total of 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed, two bases and 19 posts were captured,” the statement added.

In retaliation, Pakistan initiated the ‘Ghazab Lil Haq’ operation targeting the Afghan Taliban regime, as reported by ARY News.

Spokesperson of Pakistani Prime Minister Mosharraf Zaidi alleged that 133 Afghan Taliban fighters have been killed and over 200 wounded, with 27 Taliban posts destroyed and nine captured. (ANI)

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International

Benjamin Netanyahu Hails Narendra Modi as “Brother” Ahead of Historic Address to Israeli Knesset

February 25, 2026 by NOK Desk

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his address to the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, and described him as “a great friend of Israel, a great champion of the Indian-Israeli alliance, a great leader on the world stage.” Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

PM Netanyahu described PM Modi as “dear friend” and said he was deeply moved by the visit.

“I have to tell you, Narendra, my dear friend, I am deeply, deeply moved by your visit here today. I’ve never been more moved than by your visit here with us, a great friend of Israel, a great champion of the Indian-Israeli alliance, a great leader on the world stage. Welcome to Jerusalem, my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and your distinguished delegation,” he said.

“I would almost venture to say, more than a friend, a brother. Now, when you were last here, we, the two of us, were on the Mediterranean coast, and I said, why don’t we take off our shoes and go into the water?… We didn’t walk on water, but we did perform miracles since then. Because what we have done is we’ve doubled our trade, tripled our cooperation, quadrupled our understanding,” he added.

Amir Ohana, Speaker of the Knesset, said it his privilege to welcome PM Modi.

“Today, it is my great privilege as Speaker of the Knesset to welcome him as the first Prime Minister of India to address the Knesset and to make history once again. Thank you, Prime Minister Modi,” he said.

On his arrival in the Parliament, PM Modi was welcomed with “Modi, Modi” chants and received a standing ovation.PM Modi and his wife Sara Netanyahu attend official reception ceremony at the Knesset for PM Modi.PM Modi earlier arrived in Tel Aviv on two-day visit to Israel. (ANI)

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International

Ramadan 2026 Crescent Sighted in Pakistan; First Roza on Thursday

February 18, 2026 by NOK Desk

Pakistan will observe the first day of Ramadan 2026 tomorrow (Thursday) as the crescent moon for the holy month was sighted on Wednesday.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

However, a formal announcement in this regard would be made by Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad.

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International

PM Narendra Modi Meets Google CEO Sundar Pichai at AI Impact Summit in Delhi

February 18, 2026 by NOK Desk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Google CEO Sundar Pichai on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit in Delhi.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote , It was a delight to meet Mr. Sundar Pichai on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit in Delhi. Talked about the work India is doing in AI and how Google can work with our talented students and professionals in this field.”

Sundar Pichai — Google & Alphabet CEO

Sundar Pichai (full name Pichai Sundararajan) is an Indian-born American business executive and one of the most influential leaders in global technology today. He has served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Google since 2015 and as CEO of its parent company Alphabet Inc. since 2019. (Encyclopedia Britannica)

Born on June 10, 1972, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India, Pichai grew up in Chennai in a modest two-room apartment, where his father was an electrical engineer and his mother worked as a stenographer. His early curiosity about technology and strong academic performance earned him admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in metallurgical engineering with a silver medal. He later pursued a master’s degree in materials science and engineering at Stanford University and completed an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania as a Siebel and Palmer Scholar. (Encyclopedia Britannica)

Pichai joined Google in 2004, initially leading product management and development efforts for software products such as Google Toolbar and Google Chrome, which would become the world’s most widely used web browser. Over the years, he took on broader leadership roles, overseeing key products including ChromeOS, Google Drive, Android, Gmail, and Maps before ascending to the CEO position. (Encyclopedia Britannica)

Under his leadership, Google has expanded its focus on artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, hardware, and services that reach billions of users worldwide. He has also guided Alphabet through significant transformation and growth, championing innovation in areas such as generative AI and sustainability initiatives. (indcnetwork.com)

Pichai’s journey from a middle-class upbringing in India to leading one of the world’s most powerful technology companies has made him a prominent figure in the global business landscape and a role model for aspiring technologists and entrepreneurs. (Encyclopedia Britannica)

International

Imran Khan’s Life at Risk? Family Claims Personal Doctor Denied Access

February 16, 2026 by NOK Desk

Concerns over former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s health have intensified after his family alleged that his personal doctor has been denied permission to examine him in jail. With Khan imprisoned for over 800 days, his relatives now warn that his life could be at risk if independent medical access is not granted immediately.

The latest development has added a fresh layer of controversy to the ongoing legal and political battle surrounding the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder.

Family Raises Alarm Over Health Condition

Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khanum, has publicly expressed serious concerns about his deteriorating condition. According to the family, Khan requires specialist medical attention, particularly for his eye condition, which he recently claimed has significantly worsened.

The family insists that his personal physician, Dr. Asim Yousaf, should be allowed to examine him alongside a specialist medical team. However, authorities have reportedly refused to grant this request.

Aleema stated that the demand has been consistent from the beginning — proper medical examination by qualified specialists in the presence of his personal doctor and a family representative.

Dispute Over Medical Oversight

The controversy escalated after the government allegedly rejected the specialist recommended by Khan’s doctors. The family then proposed alternative names to represent them during medical evaluations, including relatives who are qualified doctors.

According to family members, those names were also rejected, raising questions about transparency in Khan’s medical assessment.

“This is unacceptable,” Aleema Khanum said, questioning why family-appointed medical representatives are being denied access.

The family fears that without independent oversight, Khan’s health condition could deteriorate further.

Supreme Court Intervention and Medical Examination

Earlier, a court-ordered medical board examined Imran Khan inside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi following his claim that he had lost significant vision in one eye.

Reports indicate that a team of doctors conducted eye examinations, collected blood samples, and monitored his blood pressure. However, no confirmation has been given regarding whether he will be transferred to a hospital for further treatment.

Conflicting reports about a possible hospital transfer added to the uncertainty. While an ambulance was reportedly seen at the jail, authorities later dismissed transfer claims as rumors.

Growing Political Tension

Imran Khan’s health has become a politically sensitive issue in Pakistan. His supporters argue that he is not receiving adequate medical care and demand transparency. Government officials, on the other hand, maintain that due process is being followed and medical examinations are being conducted as required.

The dispute has intensified public debate, with many calling for independent verification of Khan’s health condition.

What Happens Next?

The key issue now is whether authorities will allow Khan’s personal doctor to examine him or permit treatment at an independent medical facility.

If medical concerns continue to grow without clarity, the issue could escalate legally and politically in the coming days.

For now, uncertainty remains — and with serious allegations about denied access and worsening health, the spotlight remains firmly on Imran Khan’s treatment behind bars.

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International

Indian National Pleads Guilty in US Murder-for-Hire Plot Targeting Khalistani Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York

February 14, 2026 by NOK Desk

write title and 18 words meta for this article ”An Indian national has pleaded guilty in the United States to orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot aimed at assassinating a US citizen and Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York City, in a case that has drawn intense diplomatic attention.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The US Department of Justice said Nikhil Gupta, 54, pleaded guilty on Thursday to murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Gupta entered the plea before a federal magistrate judge in Manhattan and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, 2026. He faces a maximum potential sentence of 40 years in prison, though the final sentence will be determined by the court.

According to US prosecutors, Gupta worked at the direction of an Indian government employee to arrange the killing of a US citizen of Indian origin who is an attorney and political activist based in New York. While US court documents refer to the individual as “the victim,” the target of the alleged plot is widely understood to be Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent figure in the Sikh separatist movement and designated as a terrorist in India.

Indian authorities have designated Pannun as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), India’s primary anti-terror law. His organization has been banned in India, and he is accused by New Delhi of advocating violence and secessionism through calls for the creation of a separate Sikh state, Khalistan.

US prosecutors allege that in 2023 Gupta was recruited by Vikash Yadav, who was described in court filings as an employee of India’s Cabinet Secretariat, which houses the country’s foreign intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing. At Yadav’s direction, Gupta allegedly sought to hire a hitman to carry out the assassination on US soil.

Unbeknownst to Gupta, the individuals he contacted were working with US law enforcement. Authorities say he negotiated a $100,000 payment for the killing, arranged a $15,000 cash advance, and passed along detailed personal information about the intended target, including home address, phone numbers and daily routines. The plot was ultimately thwarted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The Justice Department said Gupta also told an undercover officer to delay the killing to avoid coinciding with the Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to the United States in June 2023. After the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada later that month, Gupta allegedly indicated there was “now no need to wait,” according to court documents.

Gupta was arrested in the Czech Republic in June 2023 and extradited to the United States in 2024.

The case has wider diplomatic implications. In November 2023, India set up a high-level internal panel to examine US allegations related to the plot. At the time, New Delhi said it took the accusations seriously while also rejecting claims of state-sponsored wrongdoing.

The Indian government’s reaction to Gupta’s guilty plea and the latest developments in the case is awaited.

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International

BNP Secures 212 Seats, Jamaat-e-Islami Wins Over 60 in Bangladesh Parliamentary Elections

February 13, 2026 by NOK Desk

Dhaka, Bangladesh — The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has emerged as the clear winner in the country’s 13th parliamentary elections, securing a commanding 212 seats in the 299-member Jatiya Sangsad, according to preliminary results released by multiple media outlets and election observers. The figures indicate a decisive mandate for the BNP and its allies, positioning them to form the next government after years of political rivalry and contestation.

BNP’s Landslide Lead

Early counts show the BNP surpassing the majority threshold with a significant margin, winning roughly two-thirds of the seats declared so far. This marks a major political comeback for the party after a prolonged period out of power and reflects a strong resurgence in popular support across diverse regions of the country. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Party chairperson Tarique Rahman, the prominent political figure leading the party’s campaign, is set to assume national leadership. Rahman also registered victories in multiple constituencies, showcasing personal electoral strength and reinforcing his leadership role within the party.

Jamaat-e-Islami Emerges as Key Opposition

The Jamaat-e-Islami and allied candidates have secured over 60 seats, positioning the Islamist coalition as a significant force in the new parliament. Although they fall short of forming government, their performance ensures a robust opposition presence that could influence legislative priorities and national debates in the coming term.

Political analysts say Jamaat-e-Islami’s stronger than expected showing reflects shifting voter preferences and an appetite for broader ideological representation in legislative processes.

Voter Turnout & Election Environment

The elections, held under heightened security measures across the nation, saw strong voter turnout, with electoral participation significantly higher than in some past cycles. Observers noted orderly conduct at most polling stations, though there were sporadic reports of delays in ballot distribution in a few constituencies.

Security forces and election authorities said they were committed to maintaining peace and transparency throughout the polling and counting processes.

Regional and International Reactions

As preliminary results poured in, world leaders and regional partners began issuing statements. Several countries, including neighboring India, extended congratulations to the BNP leadership for its projected victory. These messages underscored expectations for deepening diplomatic ties and continued cooperation on shared economic and security interests.

International observers welcomed the apparent high turnout and overall smooth process but emphasized the importance of full results and final certification by the Election Commission to confirm the preliminary trends.

Political Significance and Future Challenges

This election marks a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape, coming after years of intense rivalry between major parties and an evolving national discourse around governance, economic development, and democratic engagement. With the BNP now poised to govern, expectations are high for policy reforms, renewed focus on economic stability, and efforts to build consensus across the political spectrum.

The role of Jamaat-e-Islami as a substantial opposition bloc also adds a new dimension to parliamentary dynamics, potentially shaping debates on legislation and national priorities.

Awaiting Final Confirmation

While current tallies strongly favor the BNP, the Bangladesh Election Commission has yet to formally declare the final results. Officials are continuing the official counting process and are expected to validate all constituency outcomes in the coming days, bringing final clarity to the composition of the new parliament.

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International

Modi Congratulates Tarique Rahman as BNP Secures Historic Victory in Bangladesh Elections

February 13, 2026 by NOK Desk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Tarique Rahman after the projected results showed the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leading to a victory in Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary elections.

PM Modi said the win reflects the trust of the Bangladeshi people in his leadership.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership.” Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He added that India will continue to support a democratic and progressive Bangladesh and looks forward to strengthening bilateral ties.
“India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals,” Prime Minister Modi wrote.

Earlier in the day, BNP said that it is set to form the government as vote counting is underway for the 13th parliamentary elections in the country.
In a post on X, the BNP Media cell said, “The Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP is set to form the government after winning the majority of seats.”

Local media reports indicate that the BNP is set to secure a historic win in the elections.
According to the Daily Star, vote counting has been completed in 249 constituencies, with just 50 remaining.

Of the 299 seats, the Daily Star reported that BNP and allies have secured 181 seats, while Jamaat and allies have 61 seats.

These preliminary figures suggest a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
The BNP’s chairman, Tarique Rahman, has requested that the celebration of this victory be postponed out of respect for the passing of his mother, Khaleda Zia, before the election.

Therefore, they have called for prayers for Khaleda Zia after the Friday congregational prayer.

Rahman has been unofficially declared elected from the Bogura-6 (Sadar) constituency after securing a decisive victory over his nearest rival, as per the Daily Star.

Bangladesh ushered in its most pivotal polls as it seeks to enter into a new chapter from the classic ‘Battle of Begums’ era on Thursday.This election feels heavy after the demise of Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and the ban on her nemesis, Sheikh Hasina’s party, the Awami League. (ANI)

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