Good afternoon,

Today’s news: Globally, updates from Israel, Russia, and Iran. Plus, the US imposes solar tariffs. Locally, the Sindh canals issue reaches the PM, Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s detention is prolonged, and a heatwave to grip Pakistan in upcoming week.

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Around The World

Concepts of a plan. According to officials, Qatari and Egyptian mediators have proposed a new formula to end the war in Gaza. It envisages a truce lasting between five and seven years, the release of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, a formal end to the war, and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israel has not commented on the mediators' plan.

Meanwhile, Israel’s spy chief has accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to fire him for his refusal to commit illegal acts aimed at protecting the leader’s personal and political interests. He said Netanyahu had told him that he expected Shin Bet to take action against Israelis involved in anti-government demonstrations, with a particular focus on monitoring the protests’ financial backers.

Boundaries. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled he is open to bilateral talks with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy about not striking civilian targets, as pressure from the United States builds on both sides to agree to a quick peace deal. 

Zelenskyy did not respond directly to Putin's comments, but said Ukraine was ready for any conversation that would ensure the safety of civilians. There have been no direct talks between the two sides since the initial weeks after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Power Rangers. Iran says it will brief China this week in advance of a third round of talks with the US on its nuclear programme, as Iranian officials accused Israel of seeking to undermine and disrupt the diplomatic process. Iran also consulted with Russia last week, before the second round of direct US-Iran talks was held over the weekend. A third round of talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff will take place in Oman on Saturday.

Sun tax. The US Commerce Department has announced plans to impose tariffs of up to 3,521% on imports of solar panels from four Southeast Asian countries. The proposed levies, targeting companies in Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, are in response to allegations of subsidies from China and the dumping of unfairly cheap products in the US market.

Pakistan

Circle of life. The Sindh government has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions regarding the contentious canals project, with the matter now under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's consideration. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah reassured the public that Sindh's interests would be safeguarded, stating that the federal government has no intention of stealing even a drop of Sindh's water. Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon emphasized that any talks would occur at the government-to-government level. 

Extended detention. Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) chief organizer Dr. Mahrang Baloch's detention under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance (MPO) has been extended for another month. Her lawyer, Imran Baloch, stated that they have not received a written notice and are submitting an application to the Balochistan Home Department for formal notification. Mahrang and other BYC activists were arrested on March 22 for allegedly "attacking" Quetta Civil Hospital and "inciting people to violence" following a police crackdown on their protest against enforced disappearances.

Mad, Max, Fury. The NDMA has warned of a countrywide heatwave from April 22–27, urging citizens to check weather updates before traveling. Hot, dry conditions are expected across Pakistan, especially in Sindh and Balochistan. While some areas in KP, GB, and AJK may see rain, most regions will face intense heat. The NDMA is monitoring the situation via the National Emergencies Operation Centre.

What Else Is Happening?

✝️The Vatican has announced that the funeral of Pope Francis will be held on Saturday at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. World leaders are expected to attend the ceremony before a conclave to elect the next head of the Catholic Church.

👹UN researchers have warned that Asian scam operations are spreading across the globe. These operations have bilked victims out of billions of dollars through false romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches, and illegal gambling schemes.