Pakistan Roundup: Gold rates, Pakistan condemns Israel over Gaza, suicide bombings kill 9
Starlink's registration process underway in Pakistan, PTA confirms
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced Tuesday that Starlink’s registration process is underway in Pakistan. According to The Express Tribune, this follows a meeting between PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman and the Starlink team at GSMA Mobile World Congress 2025, where they discussed expanding affordable broadband to underserved areas to bridge the digital divide and drive digital transformation.
Two suicide bombings kill 9 people and injure 25 in Pakistan
A Pakistani Taliban-affiliated group claimed responsibility for a Bannu attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alleging dozens of security forces were killed. The military did not confirm casualties, but Bannu District Hospital reported at least nine deaths, including four children, per The Washington Post. Following two blasts, gunfire continued, and plumes of smoke rose, police officer Zahid Khan said. Hospital spokesman Muhammad Noman noted severe damage to homes, causing casualties.
Gold rates climb in Pakistan as global investors flock to safe-haven asset
On Tuesday, gold prices in Pakistan rose for the second consecutive day, reflecting a global shift toward safe-haven assets. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price per tola (approximately 11.7 grammes) increased by Rs4,800 to reach Rs306,300 ($1,095.30), while 10 grammes of gold rose by Rs4,115 to Rs262,602. Additionally, 22-karat gold climbed by Rs3,772 to Rs240,727 per 10 grammes. Silver prices also saw an uptick, with per tola rates rising by Rs45 to Rs3,315, and 10-grammes rates increasing by Rs39 to Rs2,842 ($10.16), The News reports.
Pakistan condemns Israel’s blocking of aid into Gaza
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s move to block humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it a violation of international law that threatens the ceasefire. It urged global action to ensure unrestricted aid access and hold Israel accountable for collective punishment. The ministry also reiterated support for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as Palestine’s capital. Meanwhile, Gaza’s municipal union warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis after 15 months of Israeli attacks, reports Prensa Latina.
Chinese investor confidence in energy transition
Pakistan’s energy sector faces challenges despite government efforts to attract investment. A 600MW solar project in Muzaffargarh failed to secure bids in January 2024, with investors citing political instability and high risks. Even China, Pakistan’s top energy investor, showed no interest. According to Dialogue Earth, Between 2005 and 2024, China invested nearly $68 billion in Pakistan, with 74% allocated to energy. Under CPEC, $21.3 billion went to power projects, primarily coal-based. Of the 13GW added, 8GW came from coal, while solar and wind contributed just 1.4GW. As CPEC moves into its second phase, unresolved issues from the first phase are slowing progress.
