By Al Miraq News Desk
Published: August 20, 2026
Pakistan witnessed several major developments today, ranging from severe weather conditions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to important political, economic, security and international developments.
Heavy rainfall continued across Islamabad and Rawalpindi for the third consecutive day, raising concerns over urban flooding and increasing water levels in Nullah Lai. Several low-lying areas were affected, while roads and streets were flooded and traffic movement disrupted.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court ordered the transfer of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital within two days, triggering a political and legal debate between the government and PTI.
On the international front, tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates have intensified following accusations of a missile attack. The United States is also reportedly adopting a tougher approach toward Iran.
Here are the major Pakistan and international news developments.
Islamabad and Rawalpindi Hit by Heavy Rain for Third Consecutive Day
Islamabad and Rawalpindi continued to receive heavy rainfall for the third consecutive day, disrupting normal life across the twin cities.
Around 135 millimeters of rain was recorded in Rawalpindi, causing water levels in Nullah Lai to rise significantly. Authorities remained concerned about the possibility of urban flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Several roads and streets were submerged, while rainwater reportedly entered residential areas in different locations.
The heavy rainfall also affected traffic movement, with several vehicles becoming stranded or partially submerged in accumulated water.
Nullah Lai Water Level Rises, Urban Flooding Risk Increases
The rising water level in Nullah Lai has increased concerns among residents living near the drainage channel.
Authorities have been monitoring the situation as continuous rainfall could further increase water levels in the nullah and surrounding drainage systems.
Residents in vulnerable and low-lying areas have been advised to remain cautious as further rainfall could worsen the situation.
The possibility of urban flooding remains a major concern if heavy rainfall continues.
Traffic Disrupted Between Rawalpindi and Islamabad
The Islamabad-Rawalpindi corridor also experienced major traffic disruptions.
Heavy rain and accumulated water on major roads caused long queues of vehicles, making travel between the two cities difficult.
Several streets were transformed into waterlogged routes, while motorists faced difficulties navigating through flooded roads.
Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through severely affected areas during periods of intense rainfall.
Jhelum and Sarai Alamgir Also Affected by Heavy Rain
The impact of the weather was not limited to Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Low-lying areas of Jhelum and Sarai Alamgir were also affected by heavy rainfall, with water accumulating at several locations.
The rising water level in local drainage channels has created additional concerns for nearby communities.
Authorities are closely monitoring areas vulnerable to flooding as further rainfall could increase the risk.
Two People Injured in Rain-Related Accident in Gujrat
A road accident was reported in Gujrat during the rainy weather.
According to the available information, a van collided with a truck, leaving two people, including a woman, injured.
Rainwater and slippery roads can significantly increase the risk of road accidents, particularly where visibility is reduced and water accumulates on highways.
Supreme Court Orders Transfer of Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital
In a major political and legal development, the Supreme Court ordered authorities to transfer PTI founder Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital within two days for medical treatment.
The order has generated significant political discussion, with the federal government indicating that it plans to seek a review of the decision.
The government has raised questions regarding the legal framework governing medical treatment for convicted prisoners outside prison facilities.
Government Plans to Seek Review of Court Order
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said that convicted prisoners are provided medical treatment through government hospitals.
According to the government’s position, the Supreme Court’s order may not fully correspond with existing rules and laws governing convicted prisoners.
The authorities are therefore considering requesting appropriate modifications to the court order.
The issue has become a significant point of discussion between the government and PTI leadership.
PTI Rejects Claims of Deal or NRO
PTI leader Naeem Haider Panjutha rejected suggestions that the party was seeking a political deal, relief or an NRO.
He said the matter was related to human health and life rather than politics.
Panjutha called on the government to implement the Supreme Court’s order and ensure that the decision was followed.
PTI leader Ali Muhammad Khan also said that the government remains bound to implement the court order unless the review request is accepted.
He warned that failure to implement a judicial order could potentially result in contempt of court proceedings.
President Zardari Meets Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti
President Asif Ali Zardari met Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti to discuss the overall situation in Balochistan and development projects being carried out across the province.
The provincial government briefed the president on ongoing development initiatives and the broader situation in Balochistan.
President Zardari emphasized the importance of effective coordination between the federal and provincial governments for development and public welfare.
He also said that efforts by externally backed terrorist groups to obstruct development in Balochistan would be defeated.
The president expressed confidence that terrorism would eventually be eliminated from the province.
Iran-UAE Tensions Intensify
Tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates have intensified following allegations of a missile attack.
The UAE accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles, saying the missiles fell into the sea.
Following the allegations, the UAE announced the suspension of certain commercial and allied transactions, citing concerns over regional and international peace and security.
Iran, however, rejected the accusation.
Iran Denies Missile Attack on UAE
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei rejected allegations that Iran had launched missile attacks against the UAE.
He described the accusations as baseless and warned regional countries about what he called possible false-flag operations.
The conflicting claims have added another layer of tension to an already volatile regional situation.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Holds Talks With UAE Security Adviser
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also held discussions with the UAE’s security adviser.
The talks reportedly focused on Iran’s attacks, regional security and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz remains strategically important for global energy markets because of its role in international oil transportation.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Seizes Tanker Linked to UAE
Another major development came with reports that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps seized a tanker associated with the United Arab Emirates.
According to reports, the tanker changed its course and was heading toward the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas instead of Jebel Ali.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf and growing international concerns over maritime security.
Donald Trump Adopts Tougher Strategy Toward Iran
US President Donald Trump has reportedly changed his approach toward Iran.
According to CNN reporting cited in the news bulletin, the Trump administration had previously attempted to achieve progress through pressure and negotiations.
However, the reported lack of significant progress has prompted Washington to adopt a tougher strategy.
The White House is now focusing on increasing pressure on Tehran while maintaining its broader objectives regarding Iran’s nuclear and regional policies.
Iran Says It Will Resist Foreign Pressure
Iranian officials have continued to emphasize national sovereignty and independence.
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the Iranian people would not surrender to external pressure.
He maintained that Iran would not allow foreign powers to interfere in its internal affairs and would determine its own future.
The statements underline the widening gap between Washington and Tehran at a time of growing regional tensions.
Pakistan Prepares for SCO Summit 2027
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar chaired a meeting regarding preparations for the SCO Summit 2027.
During the meeting, Dar expressed satisfaction with the progress of preparations and instructed relevant institutions to complete all arrangements on time.
He emphasized that Pakistan is committed to successfully hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting.
All relevant departments were directed to coordinate their efforts and ensure that preparations are organized and effective.
Google Office in Pakistan Seen as Major Development for Technology Sector
The establishment of a Google office in Pakistan has been described as an important milestone for the country’s technology sector.
Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima said the government’s partnership with Google was receiving continued support.
She said Google’s presence in Pakistan could encourage other major international technology companies to enter the Pakistani market.
According to the minister, Google distributed around 350,000 certificates in Pakistan last year and provided training to approximately 120 gaming companies.
The development could further strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy and technology ecosystem.
Three Suspects Arrested Over Karachi Independence Day Stall Shooting
Three suspects allegedly involved in a shooting at an Independence Day stall in Karachi have been arrested near the Kausar River area.
According to authorities, three hand grenades and a pistol were recovered from the suspects.
DIG CTD Ghulam Asghar Mahesar said the attack resulted in the killing of a citizen who was selling national flags at the stall in front of his wife and children.
The Counter Terrorism Department and intelligence agencies reportedly traced the suspects through technical evidence.
The arrested suspects were identified as Zafar Ali, Faraz and Sajjad Ahmed.
According to SSP Irfan Bahadur, the suspects claimed links to the Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA).
Mustafa Kamal Calls for Administrative Reforms in Karachi
Federal Minister Mustafa Kamal criticized the existing administrative system in Sindh and argued that Karachi requires stronger local governance and administrative reforms.
He said new administrative units and an empowered local government system could be necessary to improve governance and address public grievances.
Kamal also stated that despite political differences within his party, the party remained united on issues concerning provincial rights and the country’s administrative structure.
Jamaat-e-Islami Continues Protests Over Petrol Prices
Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman addressed a protest demonstration in Lahore and criticized the government’s performance.
He argued that changing individuals within the system would not be enough and called for deeper structural reforms.
He also criticized bureaucratic practices and demanded relief for ordinary citizens.
Jamaat-e-Islami protesters have also continued demonstrations outside the Governor House in Karachi and Peshawar.
The protesters are demanding lower petrol prices and relief from rising living costs.
Petrol and Diesel Prices Increased
Petroleum prices have also become a major issue for Pakistani consumers.
According to the latest announcement, petrol became Rs3.34 per liter more expensive, taking the new price to Rs334.54 per liter.
The price of high-speed diesel increased by Rs5.27 per liter, reaching Rs395.69 per liter.
The Petroleum Division issued the notification following approval from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
The increase is expected to add further pressure on household budgets, transportation costs and the prices of essential commodities.
Electricity Could Become More Expensive
Consumers may also face another increase in electricity prices.
Under the monthly fuel adjustment mechanism, electricity prices could increase by approximately Rs2.52 per unit.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) is scheduled to hear the Central Power Purchasing Agency’s request on August 27.
According to the reported data, approximately 15.12 billion units of electricity were generated in July, while around 14.501 billion units were supplied to distribution companies.
The cost of electricity generated through different fuel sources also varied significantly.
Government Works on Agricultural Tax Plan Under IMF Pressure
The government has accelerated efforts to satisfy the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding agricultural income tax collection.
Authorities are reportedly working with provinces on an alternative plan to meet the required revenue targets.
If the agreed target is not achieved by September 30, consultations with provinces could take place in October regarding a possible fixed agricultural tax.
One proposal under consideration could involve an income tax of approximately Rs5,000 per acre, although the final mechanism would depend on consultations and policy decisions.
According to IMF data cited in the report, agriculture contributes approximately 24.5 percent of Pakistan’s economy, while its contribution to tax collection remains around 3 percent.
Sindh High Court Rejects Petition Filed by Former CM Qaim Ali Shah’s Daughter
The Sindh High Court rejected at the initial stage a petition concerning the reappointment of Dr Nighat, daughter of former Sindh chief minister Qaim Ali Shah, as a professor following her retirement.
Justice Adnan-ul-Karim Memon observed that the Sindh Cabinet’s decision was a matter of policy and did not appear to involve a lack of jurisdiction or bad faith.
The court noted that consideration of the appointment in the public interest did not eliminate the legal requirements and procedures applicable to the appointment.
Punjab Announces More Schools of Eminence
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat visited the School of Eminence located in the constituency of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
During the visit, the minister reviewed educational facilities and infrastructure.
The Punjab government announced plans to establish six additional Schools of Eminence and two Danish schools in the constituency.
The education minister also responded to criticism from Jamaat-e-Islami leadership, saying that critics should examine Punjab’s education model, quality and infrastructure before making comparisons.
Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz Meet Saudi Ambassador
PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz met Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki during a farewell meeting.
The Pakistani leadership appreciated the ambassador’s diplomatic services and his role in strengthening relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz praised his contributions to bilateral relations.
The Saudi ambassador described his time in Pakistan as memorable and expressed appreciation for the relationship between the two countries.
Pakistan News Today: A Day of Major Developments
Today’s developments highlight the wide range of challenges and issues facing Pakistan.
From severe rainfall and flooding concerns in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to political developments surrounding Imran Khan’s medical treatment, the country remained at the center of significant national discussions.
At the same time, rising fuel prices, potential electricity tariff increases and discussions surrounding agricultural taxation demonstrate the economic pressures facing ordinary citizens.
On the international front, tensions involving Iran, the UAE and the United States have increased concerns about regional security and maritime stability.
The developments surrounding Google’s presence in Pakistan and preparations for the SCO Summit 2027, meanwhile, represent important opportunities for the country’s technology sector and international diplomacy.
Al Miraq will continue to bring readers the latest updates from Pakistan and around the world as new developments emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the latest Pakistan news today?
The major Pakistan news today includes heavy rainfall in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, political developments regarding Imran Khan’s medical treatment, rising petrol and diesel prices, possible electricity tariff increases, security developments in Karachi and preparations for the SCO Summit 2027.
What happened in Islamabad and Rawalpindi?
Islamabad and Rawalpindi experienced heavy rainfall for the third consecutive day. Around 135mm of rain was reported in Rawalpindi, increasing water levels in Nullah Lai and raising concerns about urban flooding.
What is the latest update about Imran Khan?
The Supreme Court ordered authorities to transfer PTI founder Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital within two days. The federal government has indicated that it intends to seek a review of the order.
What is the new petrol price in Pakistan?
According to the information in the news bulletin, petrol increased by Rs3.34 per liter to Rs334.54, while diesel increased by Rs5.27 to Rs395.69 per liter.
Why are Iran and the UAE facing tensions?
The UAE accused Iran of launching ballistic missiles, while Iran denied the allegations and called them baseless. The dispute has increased concerns about security in the Gulf region.
What is happening with the SCO Summit 2027?
Pakistan is preparing to host the SCO Summit 2027, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar overseeing preparations and directing relevant institutions to complete arrangements in an organized manner.
Al Miraq — Beyond the Headlines.