Gunmen Claim Nine Lives of Pakistani Nationals in South-eastern Iran, Saima Wazed Takes Helm as WHO Regional Director, World Bank Bestows $425 Million Grant to Strengthen Pakistan.

byAmogh Dev Rai (Director Research- ASIA), Priyanka Garodia, Aurko Chakrabarti and Bhupesh Upadhyay

14 minute read

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This research – based newsletter is a digital product from ASIA, a think tank @ SGT University. The board of ASIA is chaired by Prof. Najeeb H Jung. The board includes Prof. Indu Bhushan, Prof. Rajat M Nag, Prof. Sandhya Vasudevan, and Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal. The data used here is verfied, and sources double checked.

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Asia Headlines: Quick Recap

Evergrande’s liquidation is ordered by Hong Kong court

China Evergrande Group received a liquidation order from a Hong Kong court, this will mean the liquidators will be responsible for managing, and addressing issues. (Nikkei)

*China Evergrande Group headquarters in Shenzhen; Photo: Yusuke Hinata/ Nikkei*

DRC Strikes New $7 Billion Mine Road-Financing Deal With China

The Democratic Republic of Congo is set to receive $7 billion in financing as part of a revamped minerals-for-infrastructure contract with China, according to the mining company at the heart of the agreement. (Bloomberg)

Chinese Engineers Are Keeping Russia’s Metal Furnaces Firing

Magnitogorsk, in the Ural mountains, was developed as a symbol of Soviet industrial might and its capacity for economic modernization. Today, a new, 75 billion-ruble (roughly $840 million) coking plant in the steel town is being built by a Chinese engineering giant and hundreds of Chinese workers. The contract between Magnitogorsk Iron & Steel Works PJSC, known as MMK, and state-owned Sinosteel Engineering & Technology Co. was signed before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and links between the two predate that. But since Chinese engineers and builders began arriving in large numbers to speed up construction last year, the project has been trumpeted by officials on both sides as emblematic of closer ties. (Bloomberg)

Abdullah Yahya Al Hakim, the Houthis’ external secret operations strategist

*Abdulmalik Al Houthi and Major General Abdullah Yahya al-Hakim. Photo: AFP*

The man also known by his nom de guerre Abu Ali is officially in charge of military intelligence and considered the second-in-command of the Houthis. He is involved in all the Yemeni rebel movement’s most strategic issues. (Intelligence Online)

Gunmen in Iran kill nine Pakistanis days after tit-for-tat strikes

Unidentified gunmen killed nine Pakistani workers in a restive southeastern border area of Iran on Saturday, Pakistan’s ambassador and Iranian state media said, amid efforts by the two countries to mend ties after tit-for-tat attacks. “Deeply shocked by horrifying killing of 9 Pakistanis in Saravan. Embassy will extend full support to bereaved families,” the Pakistani ambassador to Tehran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, said on the X platform. “We called upon Iran to extend full cooperation in the matter.””Deeply shocked by horrifying killing of 9 Pakistanis in Saravan. Embassy will extend full support to bereaved families,” the Pakistani ambassador to Tehran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, said on the X platform. “We called upon Iran to extend full cooperation in the matter.” (Nikkei)

China Tightens Securities Lending Rule to Support Stock Market

From today China will halt the lending of certain shares for short selling, strategic investors will have to strictly enforce lock in periods, and will not be allowed to put shares up for lending. (Bloomberg)

Third-placed Taiwan People’s Party takes cautious route on China

The head of the Taiwan People’s Party, which won eight seats in parliament, is trying to maintain his position as potential kingmaker of the new government while taking a more pragmatic stance on China than the country’s two historic parties. (IO)

*Ko Wen-je, leader of fledging Taiwan People’s Party: Photo: Getty Images*

Kyiv’s former Washington envoy at heart of Russian information campaign

Washington and an increasing number of Ukrainian political players are encouraging the Bankova presidential administration to make internal changes to reinvigorate the country’s political inertia, but Moscow is leveraging this lobbying for its own purposes. (IO)

Israel- Hamas War:

*Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during the weekly cabinet meeting at the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv, Israel, January 7, 2024. Photo: Reuters*

Israel Says Summit With U.S., Qatar and Egypt on Hamas Hostage Deal ‘Constructive’; Netanyahu: Gaps Remain

In the Israel-Hamas conflict, about 80% of the Hamas tunnels in the Gaza Strip remain intact, despite efforts to destroy them. Israel implemented the “Sea of Atlantis” operation, flooding tunnels with seawater, but it proved less effective than anticipated due to barriers hindering water flow. This information comes from sources in Israel and the U.S., as reported by the Wall Street Journal. Read more: Haaretz

In a Diplomatic Show of Force, Arab Nations Might End Israel’s Gaza War, Lebanon Border Hostilities

In recent diplomatic efforts, Arab nations, including Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, are addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict and Lebanon border hostilities. Talks in Egypt involve U.S. envoy Brett McGurk and a Qatari representative, focusing on a potential one-month cease-fire with gradual Israeli hostage releases. Read more: Haaretz

Netanyahu Dealt Israel a Terrible Blow

Examining the aftermath of Benjamin Netanyahu’s actions, especially during the October 7 war, sheds light on the impact on Israel’s global image. The focus is on the International Court of Justice in The Hague considering a petition accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. Netanyahu’s leadership has shifted how Israel is perceived worldwide, potentially resulting in serious consequences and linking Israel to criminal allegations. Read more: Haaretz

Af-Pak De/Cypher

29 Jan, 2024

*Thousands turn out to greet Mahrang Baloch in Quetta. Photo: Baloch Media*

Monday

Security forces kill seven terrorists in Zhob IBO

Security forces killed seven terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) near the Pak-Afghan border in Zhob’s Sambaza Sector. Read more: Pakistan Today

Pakistan, Iran envoys to resume offices by Jan 26

Pakistan and Iran have decided to reinstate their ambassadors by January 26, 2024, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough after recent tensions and reciprocal airstrikes. Read more: Such TV

Imran brands poll scheme ‘Mother of All Selections’

Imran Khan, incarcerated in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, urged supporters to protest what he calls the “mother of all selection” in Pakistan, accusing the caretaker government and Election Commission of aiding Nawaz Sharif. Read more: The Express Tribune

Pak-Saudi Arabia joint military training begins

Joint military training between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia began at Okara Garrison, organized by the Multan Corps. The opening ceremony included a military drill, anthem presentations, and flag unveilings. Read more: Dawn

Tuesday

Cop among three killed in DI Khan check-post attack

Terrorists attacked a DI Khan check-post, resulting in three casualties, including a Quick Response Force personnel. In Lakki Marwat, the Education Officer survived an attack on his vehicle unharmed. Read more: Pakistan Today

Int’l observers, journalists to cover elections 2024 Pakistan: Solangi

Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi announced that international observers and journalists will monitor the general elections on February 8, 2024. So far, forty-nine visas have been issued to foreign journalists, with applications from various outlets, including CNN, BBC, and DW. Read more: ARY News

Govt approves army deployment for ‘peaceful conduct’ of Feb 8 polls

The caretaker government greenlit Pakistan Army deployment to ensure peace during the upcoming February 8 elections amid heightened terrorism concerns, while Section 144 is imposed in Punjab due to reported threats. Read more: Dawn

World Bank grants $425m to Pakistan

Caretaker Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar granted in-principal approval for a $425 million contribution from the World Bank, supporting the Crisis-Resilient Social Protection Programme and enhancing microfinance access for the underprivileged. Read more: The Express Tribune

Wednesday

Pakistan actively collaborating with China for next stage of CPEC, caretaker PM says

Caretaker PM Kakar wants to collaborate with China for the next stage of CPEC, emphasizing road and air connectivity around industrialization projects. Read more: The Nation

Cop, labourers martyred in D.I. Khan attack

A cop and two laborers were killed in a militant attack on a police check post in D.I. Khan, prompting a search operation for the attackers. Read more: Dawn

IHC reserves ruling on Imran’s jail trial

Islamabad High Court reserved ruling on Imran Khan’s jail trial against NAB’s references, focusing on the extraordinary circumstances and defining trial parameters. Read more: The Express Tribune

Election 2024: Security personnel to be ‘barred from entering polling booths’

Caretaker Sindh Home Minister clarified that security personnel will not enter polling booths during the 2024 elections, with Rangers summoned only if necessary. The deployment of 122,000 police officials and 1,984 Pakistan Army soldiers is planned for election security. Read more: The News International

Thursday

TTP network busted, commander among 17 terrorists held in Karachi

Security forces in Karachi dismantled a Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan network, arresting 17, including a commander, involved in target killings and planning attacks on political leaders. Read more: Pakistan Today

Grenade, gun attack on ECP office martyrs policeman in Turbat

Unidentified armed men attacked the Election Commission office in Turbat, Balochistan, killing a policeman. Read more: The News International

E&P firms to invest $33m for oil, gas search

Exploration and production (E&P) firms are set to invest $33.3 million in the next three years for oil and gas exploration in eight blocks, aiming to address the country’s energy crisis. Read more: The Express Tribune

Pakistan sets new targets for treatment of tuberculosis (TB)

Pakistan has set new targets for TB treatment, aiming to identify 528,600 cases annually by 2026. Read more: Dawn

Friday

Pakistani envoy to assume duties in Tehran today

Pakistani Ambassador to Iran, Mudassir Tipu, returned to Tehran, emphasizing the critical role of strong Pakistan-Iran ties after cross-border tensions ease.

Read more: The News International

Thousands turn out to greet Mahrang Baloch in Quetta

Dr. Mahrang Baloch and Turbat long marchers arrive in Quetta, addressing extrajudicial killings in Balochistan, calling for an FIR, and emphasizing continued activism against disappearances. Read more: Dawn

Pakistan ‘seeks’ rollover of $2bln loan from China

Caretaker PM Kakar requested China for a $2 billion loan rollover, expressing gratitude for financial assistance; talks with Chinese officials are ongoing with a potential extension for one year. Read more: The Nation

Forex reserves hit 6-month high at $8.27b

Pakistan’s forex reserves hit a 6-month high at $8.27 billion, stabilizing the rupee; the increase includes the IMF’s $705.6 million tranche, contributing to economic stability. Read more: The Express Tribune

Weekend News

Iran offers condolences over killing of nine Pakistanis

Iran expressed condolences following the killing of nine Pakistani laborers, in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, reinforcing the commitment to strong bilateral relations. Read more: Daily Times

TTP top militant among 11 terrorists arrested

The Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department arrested 11 terrorists, including a key TTP commander, in intelligence-based operations. Read more: The Nation

Chinese technological collaboration empowers Pakistan Mobile Industry

In 2023, Pakistan produced 21.28 million mobile sets, with 93.1% locally made. Chinese companies, led by VGO Tel and Infinix, played a significant role. Read more: Pakistan Today

China Tops Renewable Energy Growth; Pakistan Aims for 30% Renewables

China achieved the highest growth in global renewable energy, contributing to economic growth. Pakistan eyes a 30% renewable energy target by 2030, seeking collaboration with China. Read more: Pakistan Today

Pakistan election battle focuses on fairness, security: 5 things to know

Supporters of Muttahida Qaumi Movement of Pakistan — a secular, socially liberal political party in Pakistan — attend an election campaign rally in Karachi, Pakistan on Jan. 21, 2024, ahead of the country’s Feb. 8 elections. Photo: Fareed Khan, AP

Pakistan’s upcoming elections on Feb. 8 face challenges, with security concerns, allegations of unfairness, and economic crises dominating the landscape. Imran Khan’s PTI lost its symbol, impacting its cohesion and representation. The playing field is criticized as uneven, with multiple parties raising fairness issues. Security concerns arise from recent attacks, prompting calls for election delays. Social media plays a crucial role in campaigning, especially for PTI facing restrictions on physical events. Despite a severe economic crisis, parties have offered little clarity on tackling inflation, unemployment, and debt. The elections are marked by uncertainties and complexities. Read more: Nikkei Asia

Congressional Research Service Report Analysis: Terrorist and Other Militant Groups in Pakistan

The Congressional Research Service put out a document in December 2023, which discusses various armed militant groups operating in Pakistan. It categorizes these groups into five broad types: globally oriented, Afghanistan-oriented, India- and Kashmir-oriented, domestically-oriented, and sectarian (anti-Shia) groups.

Globally Oriented Militant Groups:

Al Qaeda (AQ) “core” was formed in Afghanistan in 1988 and designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) in 1999. It operated primarily from the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) in Pakistan.
Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) was established in 2014 and designated as an FTO in 2016. It has been implicated in terrorist attacks in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP or IS-K) is a regional affiliate of ISIS that made inroads in Afghanistan in 2015 and was designated as an FTO in 2016. Its fighters are mostly former members of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan.

Afghanistan-Oriented Militant Groups:

The Afghan Taliban emerged in southeastern Afghanistan in the early 1990s and ruled most of the country from 1996-2001. It was named as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in 2002.
The Haqqani Network (HQN) was founded in the late 1980s and designated as an FTO in 2012. It reportedly has ties to Pakistan’s main intelligence service and operates near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

India- and Kashmir-Oriented Militant Groups:

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET) was formed in the late 1980s and designated as an FTO in 2001. It was responsible for the 2008 terrorist assault on Mumbai and has carried out other high-profile attacks.
Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM) was founded in 2000 and designated as an FTO in 2001. It was responsible for the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament.
Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) is one of the largest and oldest militant groups operating in Indian-administered Kashmir. It seeks independence for Kashmir or annexation into Pakistan.

Domestically Oriented Militant Groups:

Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was formed in 2007 and designated as an FTO in 2010. It is considered the deadliest terrorist group operating in Pakistan and aims to establish Sharia law in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is an ethnic-based separatist group targeting Chinese nationals and projects in Balochistan.
Jaysh al-Adl (aka Jundallah) is an ethnic Baloch separatist group primarily oriented toward Iran and its ethnic Baloch regions.

Sectarian (Anti-Shia) Militant Groups:

Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan (SSP, aka Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat) is an anti-Shia group established in Punjab in the mid-1980s.
Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LEJ) is an SSP offshoot designated as an FTO in 2013. It has close ties with Al Qaeda and the TTP.

The document also mentions Pakistan’s efforts to counter terrorism financing and restrain India-focused terrorist groups. However, it notes that Pakistan has yet to complete its pledge to dismantle all terrorist organizations without delay or discrimination. The report also highlights the continued existence of UN- and US-designated terrorist groups operating from Pakistani soil.

It is important to monitor how the new incoming government will control these groups after the February 8, 2024, elections, should they happen on time.

Read the full report here.