Iran-US Mediation Under Fire: Pakistan’s role as a mediator is getting a fresh political grilling after CBS-linked claims that Iranian aircraft were allowed to park at Nur Khan airbase, with Sen. Lindsey Graham openly questioning Pakistan’s neutrality even as Trump publicly praised Islamabad’s efforts. Regional Security: Pakistan and China’s foreign ministers also discussed keeping a permanent ceasefire and normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while Qatar and Türkiye warned against renewed military escalation. Economy Under Pressure: SBP says macro stability improved in H1FY26 (real GDP +3.8%) but the Middle East war is raising risks for inflation, trade flows and growth; it also flags structural weaknesses like low exports and low tax-to-GDP. Textile Cash Crunch: APTMA and other textile bodies are pushing Punjab and the federal government to roll back costly levies and restore export support (EFS/FTR) and refunds. Energy & Waste-to-Power: PM Shehbaz ordered a nationwide roadmap to generate electricity from solid waste, while Punjab unveiled a Lahore compressed bio-gas plant targeting fuel-grade gas output. People & Planning: Pakistan’s population is projected to hit ~390m by 2050, and NDMA issued severe weather alerts till May 17. Governance & Rights: NA passed bills including plastic book cover bans and an anti-rape trial amendment; HRCP warned of shrinking civic space and enforced disappearances. Business Pulse: VEON reported strong 1Q26 growth, and CCP approved United Ethanol’s stake acquisition in PCRCL.