The Unfair Economic Senario

 The Unfair Economic Senario

Mubasher Mir

In the thick of a sweltering July, Pakistan stands at a crossroads—an old story retold with grimmer lines. The Federal and Provincial budgets for 2025-2026, framed under the vigilant gaze of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), have arrived not with relief but with renewed burdens for the common man. No stimulus for the struggling, no sanctuary for the sinking middle class—only directives, levies, and silence in the face of despair.

With each revision of fuel prices and every bill tucked under a door crack, a louder question echoes across Pakistan’s bazaars, teashops, and households: Where does this all end?

In Pakistan today, surviving itself is a luxury.

The recent hikes in petroleum prices have not just affected transport—an entire supply chain has become costlier overnight.  The ripple effects are immediate and merciless: from vegetables in the market to medicine on the shelves, inflation seeps into every corner of life. Electricity tariffs, adjusted under circular debt settlements, have crossed the capacity for domestic consumers. Meanwhile, gas bills have doubled for even modest households.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate  disproportionately impacting lower-income groups who spend up to 80% of their income on essentials. Contrast this with the per capita income, which, after adjustments for inflation, is estimated at around USD 1,560 annually in 2025—a figure both painful and pitiful when set against the cost of living.

Yet, those in power remain largely insulated from these harsh truths.

Now, it looks we are

Two Nations: Rich and Poor unfortunately.

Pakistan today is not a failed state, but a fractured one—split between haves and have-nots. Corporate profits soar while millions live below the poverty line. In the financial year ending June 2025, Habib Bank Limited declared profits of PKR 71 billion. MCB Bank posted PKR 45 billion. Non-banking corporates like Engro, Lucky Cement, and the automotive giants are not far behind. At the same time, over 40% of the population (more than 90 million people) lives on less than USD 3.65 a day, the World Bank’s lower-middle-income poverty line.

The commercial banking sector, backed by the State Bank of Pakistan’s interest rate , continues to profit through high spreads. Credit card interest rates are now close to 44% annually, and bank charges on basic accounts and transactions have grown steeply—making financial inclusion a bitter joke. For the salaried class and micro-entrepreneurs, banking has become a trap rather than a tool.

Pakistan’s tax regime, instead of being progressive, seems punitive. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) continues to miss targets despite raising taxes on electricity, mobile usage, fuel, and salaried individuals. The newly introduced 2.5% super tax on high-income earners is not trickling down as intended. Even more absurd is the taxation of already stressed small businesses through fixed and turnover taxes.

According to the IMF’s 2024 Article IV report, Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio remains stuck at around 9.2%—among the lowest in the world. Yet, ordinary citizens face indirect taxes in every corner of their daily spending, effectively paying the price of elite evasion and government inefficiency.

The GDP growth rate for FY2024-25 was just 2.3%, and is projected to remain under 3% next year, per World Bank estimates. This stagnation underscores the irrationality of revenue-focused budgeting in a contracting economy.

Government expenditures show no sign of matching public austerity. Ministers travel in convoys, official lunches stretch into lakhs, and foreign delegations continue their journeys to Geneva and Dubai—all while hospitals face medicine shortages and universities lay off faculty.

Pakistan’s Human Development Index (HDI), as reported by UNDP, remains shamefully low at 0.544, ranking 161 out of 193 countries. Indicators like child mortality, female literacy, and access to clean water continue to reflect systemic neglect. This disconnect between public hardship and elite privilege breeds more than resentment—it breeds unrest.

The regulators of Pakistan’s economic destiny—SECP, State Bank of Pakistan, and the Pakistan Stock Exchange—remain aloof or compromised. Their mandate to ensure financial fairness has been overtaken by the obligation to remain in step with external financiers.

The State Bank, now operating with “autonomous” status under IMF agreements, is less a central bank and more a transmission belt for global financial dictates. It adjusts interest rates without heed to local consequences, deepening rather than healing the wounds of inflation and unemployment.

Insurance companies too, under the SECP’s lax oversight, prefer investment portfolios over assurance. Rather than extending risk coverage to agricultural or informal sectors, they chase government bonds and real estate gains. Pakistan’s insurance penetration remains at a paltry 0.9% of GDP.

What makes the economic crisis unbearable is not only its scale but its unfairness. The system is no longer indifferent—it appears extractive. When a poor family pays more in indirect taxes than a corporate group pays in income tax, when a child’s malnutrition is the price of a defence deal, when a student’s dream withers under unaffordable tuition while bureaucrats enjoy subsidized plots—this is not governance, it is betrayal and 

this betrayal is feeding a new consciousness.

Independent media and civil society voices are rising despite censorship and intimidation. Journalists, economists, and digital creators are dissecting the façade of fiscal responsibility and exposing the core of cruelty in economic planning.

In the 2025 Gallup Pakistan Poll, over 67% of respondents said they believe the government does not prioritize the common man in its economic policies. Protests over electricity bills in Sindh, wheat procurement issues in Punjab, and teacher layoffs in KPk are more frequent and intense.This has been learnt that

the people are not just angry—they are awakening.

There is no magic solution, but there is a starting point: fair regulation and fearless accountability.

We need a financial sector that supports real economic activity—not one that profits from scarcity. We need a tax system that asks more of the privileged and less of the precarious. We need public spending that reflects empathy, not entitlement. We need insurance that insures, regulators that regulate, and banks that serve—not enslave.

Above all, we need people’s representatives to remember why they are called representatives. Parliamentary presence must become purposeful. Legislative debates must turn from theater to truth-seeking. The idea of Pakistan, as envisioned by Iqbal and Jinnah, was not one where the state extracts life from its citizens in the name of stability

Unfair economic systems have short lives. They carry the seeds of collapse in their very operation. Whether through democratic renewal, policy reform, or the eruption of mass dissent—change becomes inevitable when justice is denied for too long.

Let us be clear: Pakistan’s potential is not dead. Its people remain resilient. Its youth are brilliant. But their patience has a limit.

The time for excuses has passed. The future must belong to fairness—or not at all.

Karachi Political Reflections

 Karachi  Political Reflections

 Mubasher Mir

In a series of recent diplomatic events in Karachi, the Consulate General of France and Türkiye commemorated their national days — each rooted in moments of profound national transformation. These events not only marked significant historical milestones but also offered an opportunity to reflect on Pakistan’s contemporary challenges through the lens of these pivotal revolutions and democratic movements.

Commemorating Bastille Day: The French Struggle for Equality

At a local hotel, the French Consulate General in Karachi celebrated Bastille Day — observed on July 14th — a defining moment in French history. The French Consul General, Alexis Chahtahtinsky, addressed the gathering, explaining the symbolic and historical significance of the storming of the Bastille Prison in 1789.

The Bastille, once a fortress turned into a state prison, represented the absolute monarchy of Louis XVI, where political prisoners were detained without trial. The storming of this prison became a powerful symbol of the people’s resistance against oppression, class inequality, and arbitrary power. The revolution, rooted in the Enlightenment principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, triggered profound structural changes in France and across Europe. It forced the monarchy into reforms and culminated in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, enshrining civil liberties that echo in democratic constitutions to this day (Schama, Citizens, 1989).

In his address, the Consul General highlighted the longstanding Franco-Pakistani relations, particularly in defence cooperation. He cited Pakistan’s acquisition of Mirage fighter aircraft, still operational with the Pakistan Air Force, and the collaborative development of Agosta-class submarines — a project that tragically witnessed the 2002 terrorist attack on French engineers in Karachi. These examples underscore both the depth of cooperation and the challenges faced in the pursuit of strategic ties.

Türkiye’s July 15th: A People’s Victory Over a Coup

In a parallel ceremony, the Turkish Consulate General in Karachi observed the Day of Democracy and National Unity, commemorating the failed coup attempt of July 15, 2016. The Consul General, Cemal Sangu, addressed attendees and recounted the dramatic and harrowing events of that evening — when a faction within the Turkish military attempted to overthrow the democratically elected government of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The coup plotters launched airstrikes on the Turkish Parliament, police headquarters, and attempted to seize key government installations using tanks and helicopters. President Erdoğan, narrowly escaping capture, addressed the nation via FaceTime, urging citizens to resist. In a moment that reshaped Turkish political identity, millions of civilians took to the streets, confronting tanks with nothing but flags and resolve. Over 250 people were killed, and more than 2,000 were injured defending the democratic order (Official Gazette of the Republic of Turkey, 2016).

In the days that followed, a large-scale crackdown ensued. The government accused exiled cleric Fethullah Gülen of orchestrating the coup, which he denied. Tens of thousands of civil servants, military personnel, and judges were dismissed or arrested. While the incident raised concerns over civil liberties, it also cemented a national consensus on preserving democracy, celebrated each year as a day of unity and patriotism.

Parallels with Pakistan: Revolution, Resistance, and Relevance

These historical moments in France and Türkiye are not merely foreign events — they hold a mirror to Pakistan’s own democratic journey.

Pakistan today grapples with glaring socio-economic inequalities reminiscent of pre-revolutionary France. A small elite — comprised of the political class, landed aristocracy, and bureaucratic power centers — controls national wealth and decision-making. Meanwhile, the vast majority of citizens suffer under the weight of inflation, over-taxation, poor services, and crumbling institutions. As in 18th-century France, the voices of ordinary people are increasingly marginalized, while the ruling class remains insulated in privilege.

Similarly, Pakistan has witnessed numerous instances of democratic disruption — where elected governments have been overthrown through unconstitutional means, often under the guise of corruption or national security. Yet, unlike the powerful public response seen in Türkiye, Pakistan’s public resistance has often been fragmented or muted. As political historian Dr. Ayesha Jalal notes in The Struggle for Pakistan (2014), the country has struggled to transition from a security state to a participatory democracy, where the ballot carries supreme legitimacy.

The Rise of Digital Resistance: A New Frontier

However, signs of democratic awakening are emerging. In the absence of institutional accountability, social media has evolved into a powerful instrument of civic engagement in Pakistan. A recent example from Balochistan demonstrates this shift. A man and woman were brutally murdered under a tribal jirga ruling, accused of dishonoring tradition, despite claiming to be legally married. The local administration remained silent, and the incident would have been buried — had it not been for the public outcry on social media platforms.

Facing widespread digital backlash, the Chief Minister of Balochistan admitted to prior knowledge of the incident and was compelled to take action. Authorities arrested the accused and presented them in court. This is not an isolated case — across Pakistan, we are seeing a new digital consciousness, where citizens demand transparency, justice, and reform, often forcing lethargic institutions to respond.

Conclusion: Between Legacy and Destiny

France and Türkiye’s national histories offer profound lessons for Pakistan. From revolutionary France, we learn that systemic inequality, if left unaddressed, breeds explosive consequences. From modern Türkiye, we see the power of collective civic action in defending democracy. Both nations remind us that people, not power, are the true custodians of the state.

Pakistan stands at a crossroads. Without governance reforms, institutional accountability, and respect for democratic mandates, the gulf between the state and citizenry will continue to widen. Yet, with the rise of digital activism, a politically aware youth, and a civil society no longer willing to remain silent — the tide may be turning.

History does not repeat itself, but as Mark Twain aptly observed, it often rhymes. The challenge now is whether Pakistan will learn from history — or become a case study for it.

Karachi Political Diary

 Karachi Political Diary

Mubashir Mir 

Karachi, the political and economic nerve center of Pakistan, continues to be a reflection of the broader national tensions and aspirations. The city’s streets buzz not just with trade and traffic but with rumors, political maneuvering, civic unrest, and a cultural melancholy that reflects the state of a country in flux.

Rumors of Presidential Resignation – A Political Earthquake or a Media Mirage?

For several days in early July 2024, whispers and rumors of President Asif Ali Zardari's resignation swept through media circles, WhatsApp groups, and political drawing rooms with startling velocity. This speculation pointed toward a seismic shift in Pakistan's political landscape. Despite the magnitude of these rumors, neither President Zardari nor the Presidential Secretariat issued any official clarification initially. This silence was interpreted by many as either a sign of internal deliberation or political strategy.

However, several provincial ministers from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) eventually spoke up, denying any such development. The Prime Minister and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leadership also rejected the claims. Most notably, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi dismissed the rumors outright in a formally convened press conference, labeling them as "fabricated and baseless."

Adding credibility to the President's continuing involvement, the Presidency’s website published proceedings of a July 8 meeting regarding canal infrastructure, accompanied by a regular press release from the Press Information Department. The transparency of this meeting, and its public documentation, seemed designed to quell the resignation speculation and reaffirm the President's active role.

In the age of digital misinformation and politically motivated rumors, such episodes highlight the critical need for proactive communication from public offices to preserve public trust and institutional stability.

The Waning Echoes of Altaf Hussain

Once the most dominant voice in urban Sindh politics, Altaf Hussain—the founder of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)—is reportedly gravely ill and hospitalized in London. Time, politics, and inner-party fractures have eroded his once-unquestioned influence.

His former party, now restructured as MQM-Pakistan, has formally distanced itself from him. Internationally, former allies have also begun disassociating, reflecting a shift toward localized, pragmatic political realignment. Yet, Hussain continues to release periodic video messages, expressing disillusionment with former comrades while notably offering moral support to incarcerated PTI leader and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan.

His sympathy for Khan, though ideological opposites at one time, reflects the evolving political alliances forged more from common grievance than shared vision. Hussain’s political legacy remains contested, but his influence continues to echo in the hearts of some loyalists in Karachi and Hyderabad.

Motorcycle Number Plate Campaign – Policy or Punishment?

The Sindh government recently launched a campaign to standardize motorcycle number plates across the province. Though well-intentioned to combat rising vehicle-related crimes and regulatory noncompliance, the campaign has come under scrutiny for its implementation and financial implications.

Motorcycle riders, many of whom belong to the lower-middle class, are being penalized harshly for non-compliance. The cost of replacing number plates—reportedly between Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,500—is a burden for many daily wage earners. Afaq Ahmed, the head of MQM-Haqiqi, has publicly criticized the campaign, calling it "exploitative."

Meanwhile, DIG Traffic has enforced stringent action, with motorcyclists being stopped at checkpoints across Karachi. Police conduct, in many cases, has reverted to the “traditional” approach—marked by harassment and bribe-seeking. What could have been a collaborative public-safety initiative has instead deepened the public’s mistrust in traffic regulation and law enforcement.

A Bhutto Renaissance?

 Fatima, Zulfiqar Jr., and a New Political Dream

The Bhutto family continues to cast a long shadow over Pakistani politics, but now a new generation is emerging from outside the PPP hierarchy. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Jr., son of the late Murtaza Bhutto, is preparing to launch a new political party with support from his sister Fatima Bhutto, a noted writer and critic of dynastic politics.

Sources suggest that the party will primarily focus on engaging Sindh's youth, offering an alternative to the established PPP leadership under Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Asifa Bhutto Zardari. Zulfiqar Jr.'s effort to learn Sindhi reflects an earnest desire to connect with grassroots constituencies. Fatima Bhutto’s political debut would carry symbolic weight—especially given her past criticism of Pakistan's ruling elite and her refusal, until now, to join electoral politics.

There is also speculation that Sassi Bhutto, daughter of Shahnawaz Bhutto, may join this venture, creating a new "Bhutto bloc" potentially positioned as a counter to Zardari's PPP. However, ideological differences and emotional wounds stemming from the death of Murtaza Bhutto in 1996—and the family’s subsequent alienation from opponants—remain significant barriers to reconciliation.

PTI’s 90-Day Movement – Momentum or Mirage?

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) initially announced a mass movement to begin on August 5, 2024, but later rebranded it as a “90-day movement.” Despite the bold rhetoric, enthusiasm appears to be missing, particularly in Sindh, where the PTI has historically struggled to mobilize grassroots support.

Aliya Hamza Malik, one of PTI’s more dynamic voices, has expressed disappointment with the slow organizational pace. Former President Dr. Arif Alvi, previously seen as a moral compass within PTI, has chosen political silence, distancing himself from overt activism.

Reports of Imran Khan’s sons—Sulaiman and Qasim—visiting Pakistan have stirred some optimism within the PTI ranks. Their presence, possibly accompanied by international media, could reinvigorate the party's support base. If strategically managed, their involvement could lend PTI a significant psychological boost—especially with a disillusioned youth demographic.

Economic Distress and the Business Community’s Revolt

Pakistan’s economic turmoil shows no signs of abating. The FY2024-25 federal budget, largely shaped under IMF direction, has been widely criticized. The budget’s heavy reliance on indirect taxation, especially energy tariffs, has sparked fury within the business community.

Traders across Pakistan, particularly in Karachi, are calling for a nationwide strike on July 19, demanding relief from crushing utility costs and unpredictable fiscal policies. If the strike—backed by key organizations like the All Karachi Tajir Ittehad and FPCCI—is successful, it could halt operations at Pakistan’s two largest ports, disrupting the country’s supply chain.

The business community has proposed a 50% cut in government expenditures, especially criticizing lavish perks for top officials. The reported increase in salaries for the Senate Chairman and National Assembly Speaker—effective retroactively from January 1—has only intensified public resentment.

If the government fails to negotiate and respond empathetically, this movement may spiral into a broader economic protest, potentially catalyzing political instability.

Artist Welfare and Cultural Neglect

A pall of sorrow hangs over Karachi’s artist community following the tragic discovery of model and performer Humaira Asghar Ali’s decomposed body in a flat in DHA. This heartbreaking incident reflects systemic neglect of Pakistan’s aging or struggling artists.

The Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi—meant to support the cultural sector—has come under fire for failing to provide support. Humaira's case follows the lonely deaths of Ayesha Khan and long-suffering actor-writer Athar Shah Khan Jaidi, both members of the Council.

Although the Sindh government allocates Rs. 450 million annually to the Arts Council, there is growing concern about transparency and mismanagement. Justice Salahuddin Panhore of the Sindh High Court previously ordered an audit of the institution, but the matter has stalled in the Supreme Court with no visible progress.

A new, centralized welfare mechanism—managed independently—could address this cultural crisis. The state owes its artists not just applause in life but dignity in their final years.

Conclusion: Karachi’s Pulse Mirrors Pakistan’s Uncertainty

From power corridors to roadside tea stalls, Karachi is grappling with uncertainty—political, economic, and emotional. Whether it's the whisper of a presidential resignation, the revival of Bhutto legacy politics, or the quiet grief of forgotten artists, the city reflects the wider malaise of a nation at a crossroads.

The government, political parties, and civil society must rise to the occasion—not only to manage crises but to preempt them. A country where presidents are ghosted, artists die in silence, and the public drowns under inflation must ask itself: is this sustainable? If not, then what will it take to change?

The Harsh Truth About Pakistan's Growing Migration Crisis

 Unwanted Destination

The Harsh Truth About Pakistan's Growing Migration Crisis

 Mubasher Mir

Pakistan — a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and immense potential — finds itself in the midst of a crisis far deeper than economic or political turmoil. It is a crisis of belief — in opportunity, in fairness, in the future.

Despite its natural beauty, fertile lands, and a resilient population, Pakistan is steadily becoming an unwanted destination, even for its own citizens. The signs are unmistakable. In 2023 alone, over 850,000 Pakistanis left the country in search of better prospects — a significant jump from 622,000 in 2022, as per the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment. Meanwhile, deportations from Gulf states, Europe, and the United States continue to climb, with over 100,000 Pakistanis returned in the past five years due to visa violations and illegal stays.

Paradoxically, despite these deportations, the desire to leave has only intensified. Student and work visa applications have surged, even as rejection rates remain high — particularly in the Schengen Zone, UK, and North America. Concerns about illegal overstays, economic instability, and lack of institutional trust plague applicants.

Pakistan’s global standing paints an even grimmer picture. Ranked fourth worst in the world by the 2024 Henley Passport Index, the Pakistani passport offers visa-free access to just 33 countries. This limited mobility is not merely a logistical constraint — it’s a reflection of how the world views us.

A staggering 127,000 Pakistani students went abroad in 2023 alone, hoping for quality education, employment, and eventual citizenship. This accelerating brain drain is draining the nation of its future — the very minds that could have rebuilt it.

What drives this exodus? Disillusionment. Young people cite systemic corruption, nepotism, lack of meritocracy, economic uncertainty, and absence of justice as primary motivators. Even high achievers find themselves disempowered in a system where success often hinges more on connections than competence.

Pakistan is not only failing to retain its talent, but also struggling to attract the world. In 2023, fewer than one million foreign tourists visited, despite our majestic mountains, lush valleys, and historical wonders. The reasons? Security concerns, bureaucratic inefficiencies, poor infrastructure, and inconsistent policies — all of which deter investment and tourism.

Foreign corporations are also losing faith. In 2023, Shell — one of Pakistan’s oldest multinational firms — exited the country, citing regulatory and economic instability. Other companies have scaled back or suspended operations, signaling a troubling erosion of investor confidence.

Even as remittances surpassed $29 billion in 2023, this surge is rooted not in growth, but in desperation. Migration — particularly of low and mid-income workers to the Middle East — has become the economic lifeline. Yet while we depend on our diaspora, we offer them little reason to return.

This is not just a migration crisis. It is a national reckoning — a crisis of faith in the very fabric of the state. It reflects a growing sentiment among Pakistanis that their homeland no longer hears them, protects them, or offers them hope. It betrays the legacy of the martyrs who dreamed of a sovereign, just, and prosperous Pakistan — their blood sowed a nation now withering under incompetence and greed.

The tragedy deepens when one observes that many who once held power now live abroad — with foreign passports, insulated from the crises they helped create. Some still hold office, raising serious questions: can those who have sworn allegiance to another flag be entrusted with shaping Pakistan’s future?

It is time for Pakistan to choose: cosmetic fixes or structural reform. The status quo is untenable. Truth, transparency, and accountability must replace slogans and surface-level solutions. Someone must bell the cat — if not the current leadership, then the next generation must. And they are ready: informed, courageous, and unwilling to be silent any longer.

This message is not born of despair, but of unwavering love. Pakistan is my home — the soil that raised me, the spirit that shaped me, and the dream that sustains me. I refuse to abandon that dream. And I know millions feel the same way — from Karachi to Khuzdar, from Swat to Sindh.

We owe it to our martyrs. We owe it to our youth. We owe it to the generations yet to come.

Pakistan must become a country worth staying in — and one worth returning to.

Because we do not want to be a nation of departures.

We want to be a nation of returns.

Spaces from Syria

 Spaces from Syria:

 Voices Amid a New Political Landscape

Syria, once the heart of ancient civilization and cultural richness, today stands at the crossroads of power transitions, foreign interests, and social disillusionment. The war-torn nation is now experiencing a new chapter under the leadership of Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, a figure who has traveled a long and controversial path — from jihadist insurgency to political dominance

Abu Mohammad al-Jolani emerged from the shadows of war in the early 2000s. Known initially for his ties with Al-Qaeda in Iraq during the U.S. invasion in 2003, Jolani was captured by American forces and held in detention for approximately five to six years. Upon his release in 2011, he returned to his hometown of Mazzeh, Damascus, just as the Syrian uprising began to unfold.

In 2012, Jolani founded his own militant group, rejecting the direct alliance with Al-Qaeda that had once defined his early militancy. Over the years, his forces became one of the strongest in the opposition movement against the Assad regime. By 2024, with the help of Assad’s rivals and foreign backers, Jolani's administration seized control of Damascus, dramatically altering the balance of power in the region.His journey from Jihadi to Ruler has many unfolded stories.

What has shocked many observers is the level of international support Jolani appears to enjoy. Gulf nations, notably Saudi Arabia, have shifted their stance and now back his administration. His recent meeting with the U.S. President Donald Trump in Riyadh, alongside Saudi leadership, has been widely interpreted as a symbol of political legitimization. Celebrations erupted among his supporters, signaling a moment of triumph for a figure once vilified on the global stage.

Even more controversial is the speculation surrounding Israeli support for the new Syrian leadership. Though unofficial and widely debated, some reports suggest covert Israeli interests in Jolani’s rise — an alliance that would have been unthinkable a decade ago. If true, such alignment challenges long-standing ideologies within the Arab world regarding the Palestinian issue and Israeli occupation.

Despite his political ascent, Jolani’s military apparatus is reportedly weakened. Years of attrition, internal splinters, and foreign bombardment have left his forces ill-equipped to hold long-term power without external assistance. This vulnerability has increased Syria's dependency on Gulf countries and, possibly, Western backing.

Yet, support from these quarters does not necessarily mean that Syria's broader economic and humanitarian issues will be addressed. The country’s infrastructure lies in ruins, and poverty is widespread. More than 15 million Syrians are refugees scattered across neighboring countries and Europe. Rehabilitating them is a task that would require billions in aid and a long-term commitment — neither of which seems guaranteed.

History provides sobering precedents. In Afghanistan, the promises made by the United States and its allies were largely unfulfilled. The abrupt U.S. withdrawal in 2021 left a power vacuum and a humanitarian crisis. Many Syrians fear a similar fate: being used as pawns in a geopolitical chess game without a serious plan for rebuilding or democratic governance.

Syria’s strategic location and natural resources have long made it a focus of international interest. The emergence of a new leadership supported by both Gulf nations and potentially Israel suggests a recalibration of regional interests — one that might prioritize control over energy resources, military positioning, and the projection of influence over genuine humanitarian upliftment.

Some analysts draw comparisons to Africa, where foreign powers have historically exploited natural wealth under the guise of aid or stabilization. There is concern that the same could happen in Syria: a façade of support masking deeper economic exploitation.

Of particular note is the idea of a “Greater Israel,” a controversial and sensitive topic in Arab discourse. Any physical Israeli presence on Syrian soil, even under diplomatic pretenses, would be seen by many Arab nations as a betrayal of collective ideals and a dangerous precedent.

In the age of censorship and propaganda, one of the few relatively free platforms where Syrians are expressing their thoughts is Twitter Spaces on X. This live audio medium has become a digital town square where citizens — refugees, activists, analysts, and ordinary Syrians — openly discuss their hopes, fears, and criticisms.

Listeners have been tuning into these Spaces, where opinions range widely. A recurring concern is the behavior of Jolani’s supporters. Reports of intimidation, silencing of dissent, and a lack of tolerance for opposition voices are surfacing. These actions, if true, stand in stark contrast to the democratic norms championed by the Western allies now supporting the regime.

One question is echoing across these discussions: How can the U.S. and its allies promote democracy while backing a leadership that suppresses dissent? If the Jolani administration fails to uphold human rights, the credibility of its Western backers — especially the United States — will come under scrutiny. This could become a major issue for the U.S. in the international community, particularly under the Trump administration, which is already facing polarized views on foreign policy.

The people of Syria, worn but not broken by over a decade of conflict, are more aware than ever of the complexities around them. Many have learned to see beyond political slogans and foreign promises. There is a growing realization that national revival cannot be outsourced — it must come from within, built on justice, transparency, and inclusive governance.

Syrians are now at a critical juncture. They must navigate the challenge of establishing a stable political order while avoiding the traps of foreign exploitation. Economic revival, rehabilitation of refugees, and rebuilding of infrastructure are monumental tasks that require not just investment, but sincerity, unity, and a deep commitment to human rights.

Syria’s current state is fragile, its future uncertain. The ascension of Jolani’s administration has introduced a new dynamic to the Middle East, bringing with it both opportunity and peril. The support of powerful foreign allies may help stabilize the situation in the short term, but without accountability and a people-centered vision, lasting peace remains elusive.

As Twitter Spaces continue to capture the raw, unfiltered emotions of Syrians from all walks of life, one thing becomes clear: the Syrian people are not silent. Their voices, born from suffering and survival, demand to be heard. They are the true stakeholders in Syria's future — and their resilience may yet shape a new chapter for their homeland.

Written by.Mubasher Mir.

President Karachi Editors Club

Karbala, Arab Culture, and Ethics:

 Karbala, Arab Culture, and Ethics:

Mubasher Mir

Visiting Karbala and experiencing the sacred ziyarat sites provides more than historical insight—it offers a deeply human understanding of the tragedy that occurred on the 10th of Muharram, 61 AH. The Battle of Karbala was not only a military confrontation; it was a profound moral and ethical crisis in Islamic history. It challenged the principles of Arab culture, Islamic war ethics, and the values upheld by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

In the battles fought during the lifetime of the Prophet (PBUH)—such as Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq, Khyber—strict ethical guidelines were observed:

Combat was often one-on-one, never a group attack on a single individual.

Non-combatants (women, children, the elderly, and the ill) were strictly protected.

Destruction of nature, including burning crops or cutting trees, was forbidden.

Water access was maintained even for enemies.

Prisoners of war were treated with compassion.

Forced allegiance or conversions were prohibited, as stated in the Qur'an:

> "There is no compulsion in religion..."

(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:256)

These ethics were a hallmark of Islamic justice and were followed rigorously by the Prophet and his companions.

The journey of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (AS) from Madina to Karbala was not for power or rebellion. It was a response to the moral decay and oppressive rule of Yazid, who had taken control of the caliphate.

When Yazid demanded allegiance, Imam Hussain refused, recognizing that Yazid’s character and actions contradicted Islamic values. As assassination attempts grew in Makkah—hidden weapons during Hajj rituals threatened Imam Hussain’s life—he chose to leave for Kufa to avoid bloodshed in the holy city.

This migration was not just a physical journey but a spiritual and ethical stand.

Upon reaching Karbala, Imam Hussain and his family were intercepted by Yazid’s army. Despite being surrounded by thousands, he was denied access to the Euphrates River, a clear violation of the ethics of war in Islam and Arab culture.

Attempts were made to bribe Imam Hussain’s companions, but their loyalty stood firm.

On the morning of Ashura, while performing Fajr prayer, the Imam’s camp was attacked. This assault during prayer, and by overwhelming numbers against a small group, was not just unethical—it was a betrayal of all traditions of honor in Arab and Islamic history.

The brutality did not end with the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS). What followed was unimaginable:

The bodies were mutilated and trampled by horses.

Infants, like Ali Asghar (six months old), were killed.

Tents were set ablaze, and the women and children were looted and taken captive.

The family of the Prophet (PBUH) was paraded from Karbala to Damascus, a distance of over 1,300 Miles , mostly on foot or on camels without proper coverings,traveled 18 days almost 80 miles per day.

Many captives, including children, died from exhaustion and abuse.

These actions broke all known codes of Arab hospitality, chivalry, and Islamic war conduct.

Imam Ali ibn Hussain (Zainul Abideen, AS), the only surviving adult male from Imam Hussain’s family, witnessed the entire tragedy. Though physically weak, his spiritual strength became a pillar of resistance.

In Kufa and Damascus, his powerful sermons condemned Yazid’s tyranny and reminded people of the true message of Islam. One of his most powerful legacies is the Sahifa Sajjadiya, a collection of deeply ethical and spiritual duas (supplications).

> “O Allah, give me the strength to stand with the oppressed and oppose the oppressor…”

— Sahifa Sajjadiya

The Qur’an emphasizes justice, compassion, and truth:

“O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice...”

(Surah An-Nisa 4:135)

No murder of innocents:

“Whoever kills a soul…it is as if he had slain all of mankind.”

(Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:32)

“Do not incline toward those who do wrong…”

(Surah Hud 11:113)

The actions of Yazid’s army were in direct violation of these divine commands.

Imam Hussain’s words before the battle resonate through centuries:

> “I did not rise out of selfishness or arrogance, but to reform the Ummah of my grandfather.”

Karbala was not a political loss—it was an eternal moral victory. It became the standard of truth vs. falsehood, justice vs. oppression, and dignity vs. humiliation.

Imam Hussain (AS) gave his life not to win a throne but to awaken the moral conscience of the Ummah.

The tragedy of Karbala remains one of the most heartbreaking and powerful chapters in Islamic history. It is a story not just of bloodshed, but of ethical resistance, of standing firm against tyranny despite overwhelming odds.

As Imam Hussain’s sister, Zainab bint Ali, said to Yazid in his court:

> “By Allah, you will never erase our memory.”

Indeed, Karbala lives on—in hearts, in prayers, and in the fight for justice across all ages.

 Hussainism: The Legacy of Resistance and Spiritual Integrity

Mubasher Mir

I remember vividly a moment from my childhood that would leave a lasting impression on my understanding of faith, sacrifice, and spiritual leadership. It was the month of Muharram, in the heart of winter. My paternal grandfather was critically ill—on his deathbed. On the 6th of Muharram, he slipped into a coma. By the early morning of the 9th of Muharram, he had taken his final breath at the age of seventy-five.

Our family, under the leadership of my father and with unanimous agreement, decided to proceed with the burial without the traditional Fātiḥah gatherings. Why? Because the mourning of Imam Hussain ibn Ali was ongoing. We believed, with deep conviction, that during these sacred days, commemorating the tragedy of Karbala took precedence. We resolved to receive formal condolences (ta'ziyat) for Mir Fazal Hussain Pehlawan—my grandfather—after Chehlum (20th of Safar), the fortieth day following Ashura. This decision was an act of reverence, a declaration of our loyalty and respect to the Ahl al-Bayt—the family of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

It was at that moment, even as a child, that I first began to understand the spiritual significance of Imam and Imamat. I learned that the Imam is not merely a religious figurehead or political leader, but the spiritual custodian of the message of Islam—the inheritor of the Prophet’s soul and mission.

Many people today confuse the roles of Khilafat (Caliphate) and Imamat. While the Imam may also become a Caliph, not every Caliph qualifies as an Imam. The Caliph is a political ruler, while the Imam—particularly in Shi’a understanding—is divinely designated, possessing both spiritual authority and moral clarity.

The Qur’anic prayer of Prophet Ibrahim عليه السلام:

> “My Lord, make me an Imam for the people.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:124)

...indicates the sacredness and elevated status of Imamat. This role is not chosen by vote, power, or inheritance alone—it is divinely guided, a trust of the soul of Islam.

In 61 Hijrah, on the banks of the Euphrates River, the grandson of the Prophet—Imam Hussain ibn Ali—stood against tyranny not to claim a throne, but to safeguard the spiritual legacy of his grandfather, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He did not rise for rebellion, nor for personal gain. He rose because silence in the face of injustice would have meant endorsing falsehood.

Before Imam Hussain, his elder brother Imam Hassan had relinquished the Caliphate through a treaty with Mu’awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan, hoping to preserve unity and prevent bloodshed. However, Mu’awiyah violated that agreement—especially by nominating his son Yazid as his successor, effectively transforming the Islamic system of governance into dynastic rule.

Imam Hussain refused to give allegiance (bay‘ah) to Yazid, not as an act of political defiance but as a moral stance. A tyrant could not be legitimized by an Imam, whose role was to represent divine justice and uphold the true essence of Islam.

Imam Hussain’s departure from Madinah was not a flight of fear but a migration with moral purpose. He stayed in Makkah for four months, rejected political proposals, and refused to lead a rebellion from the sacred land. Instead, he responded to the calls for guidance from the people of Kufa.

He sacrificed even the Hajj pilgrimage to avoid conflict in the Kaaba, departing instead toward Kufa—seeking only to guide, not to conquer. On the plains of Karbala, when he and his small caravan were forcibly stopped, he continued to offer peaceful alternatives, even proposing to migrate to the distant lands of Hindustan to avoid bloodshed.

Yet, all proposals were rejected by Yazid’s army. What followed was not a battle between equals—it was a massacre. A massacre of the Prophet’s family.

Imam Hussain’s stance at Karbala was not merely for Muslims—it was a universal stand for justice. He embodied the principles of opposition, resistance, and human dignity. In fact, what we now understand as the spirit of democracy—the right to dissent, to challenge unlawful authority, and to stand for truth—was exemplified in Karbala.

He declared that a ruler who violates the terms of justice and moral governance loses legitimacy. He refused to validate an unconstitutional, immoral leadership, even at the cost of his own life and the lives of his beloved family members.

This was not just martyrdom—it was moral leadership of the highest order. Imam Hussain gave the world a model of principled resistance. As Charles Dickens once wrote:

> “If Hussain had fought to quench his worldly desires… then I do not understand why his sister, wife, and children accompanied him. It stands to reason therefore that he sacrificed purely for Islam.”

Hussainism is the embodiment of truth, dignity, and moral defiance. It transcends sects, ethnicities, and ages. It speaks to the oppressed of all times: stand up, even if you stand alone.

From scholars like Maulana Maududi to historians across Islamic and non-Islamic traditions, the verdict is clear—Mu’awiyah’s deviation from the treaty and Yazid’s rule were grave errors. Imam Hussain’s sacrifice restored the soul of Islam.

In today’s world, where injustice often hides behind power and propaganda, Hussainism calls us to see through the veil, to stand firm with the oppressed, and to honor spiritual integrity over political convenience.

Let the world know: Karbala was not the end of a life—it was the beginning of a legacy.