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FATF gives Pakistan time till October to act against terror, India says it expects compliance

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India said today (Saturday, June 22) it expected Pakistan to “take all necessary steps to effectively implement the FATF action plan”, a day after the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) issued a strong warning to Pakistan, stating that the country could be blacklisted unless it fulfils an internationally agreed action plan against UN-designated terrorists operating on its soil by October.

“We expect Pakistan to take all necessary steps to effectively implement the FATF Action Plan fully within the remaining time frame i.e. by September 2019 in accordance with its political commitment to the FATF & take credible, verifiable, irreversible and sustainable measures to address global concerns related to terrorism and terrorist financing emanating from any territory under its control,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement, PTI reported.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the FATF has decided to continue to keep Pakistan on its compliance document  (i.e. Grey List) for the International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) monitoring for its failure to complete the action plan items due in January and May 2019.

The FATF had said it was concerned that Pakistan had failed to complete the action plan first by a January deadline and then again by a May deadline.

“The FATF strongly urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its action plan by October 2019 when the last set of action plan items are set to expire. Otherwise, the FATF will decide the next step at that time for insufficient progress,” it said after a meeting in Orlando, Florida held from June 16-21.

If it is blacklisted by the FATF, Pakistan stands the risk of facing global sanctions.

Pakistan is on FATF’s “Grey List” of countries with inadequate controls over curbing money-laundering and terrorism financing. Media reports citing sources in the US said that prominent countries such as the US, UK and France, along with India, have expressed reservations about Pakistan’s commitment to stick to standards set by FATF on terror funding. The countries have raised the issue of Pakistan not having filed a single FIR against UN-designated terrorists Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar and its inability to begin investigations on the source of funding of their organisations, the sources said.

They pointed out that its anti-terror law still remains out of sync with standards set by the international body. “It’s a serious anomaly that Pakistan’s anti-terror law still remains out of sync with FATF standards and also the latest UN resolution 2462, which calls for criminalising terrorist financing. We have pointed this out regularly at plenary sessions,”said NDTV quoting a senior officer of external affairs ministry.

Pakistan is lobbying to get itself out of the Grey List, which has put tremendous financial pressure on the nation as it would face an estimated annual loss of $10 billion if it stays in it; and if blacklisted, its already fragile economy will be dealt a powerful blow. Its $6 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could be threatened. The IMF has asked Pakistan to show commitment against money laundering and terror financing.

India, a voting member of the FATF and APG, has been pushing for Pakistan to be put in the FATF Black List for its failure to contain terrorism. However, it was not part of the group that moved the resolution to greylist Pakistan last year in Paris.

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At the October plenary in Paris Pakistan will need 15 countries to support it to stay out of the greylist. China will take over the presidency of FATF which is being seen in Pakistan as a positive sign that it could help Islamabad to stay out of the greylist. The current plenary reviewed Pakistan’s actions and urged it to complete its commitments – Pakistan has not moved on 25 out of 27 action plans determined for it in October 2018.

In the run-up to the current plenary, China had quietly lobbied to not include Pakistan in the public statement, reported The Times of India (TOI). In this, Beijing was supported by the Turkey, Malaysia and GCC countries including Saudi Arabia. They wanted Pakistan to be spared the humiliation of a public statement. On the other hand, the four countries who originally named Pakistan in the greylist last year – US, UK, Germany and France – have said they want “sustained and irreversible” action against its terror infrastructure. In the end, everybody signed on to the statement.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Times Square shooting sparks panic in New York, one injured

A shooting in New York’s Times Square left one person injured and caused panic among tourists and commuters before police detained a suspect.

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A shooting in New York City’s Times Square caused panic among hundreds of people on Thursday after gunfire erupted in the crowded entertainment and tourist district. Authorities said one person was injured in the incident, while police quickly detained a suspect and began an investigation.

Videos shared on social media showed people running through the streets and seeking cover as the sound of gunshots echoed through the area. The incident unfolded in one of Manhattan’s busiest locations, which is usually packed with tourists, office workers and commuters.

According to officials, emergency responders reached the scene shortly after the shooting was reported. The injured person was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have not immediately released details about the victim’s condition.

Police officers already deployed in the area moved swiftly to secure the location and apprehend a suspect. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the shooting and are working to determine whether any other individuals were involved.

Initial reports suggested that the gunfire may have followed an altercation, though officials have not confirmed a motive. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are reviewing evidence and witness accounts from the scene.

The shooting drew attention because of its location in Times Square, one of New York City’s most visited landmarks. Despite the brief period of chaos, law enforcement officers were able to restore order and secure the area.

Officials have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward as investigators continue to piece together the events that led to the shooting.

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US-Iran deal text released: Strait of Hormuz reopening, $300 billion fund and no-nuclear pledge among key provisions

The newly released US-Iran agreement includes provisions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, launching a proposed $300 billion reconstruction fund and advancing negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme.

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The memorandum of understanding sets out a roadmap for restoring maritime trade, advancing nuclear negotiations and supporting Iran’s economic recovery through a proposed reconstruction fund.

The United States has released the text of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran, laying out the framework for ending months of conflict and opening the door to broader negotiations on Tehran’s nuclear programme and economic future. The agreement includes commitments on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a pledge from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons, and the creation of a proposed $300 billion reconstruction and development fund.

According to the released text, Iran has agreed to ensure the restoration of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes. The US, in turn, has committed to lifting its naval blockade and refraining from imposing new sanctions during a 60-day negotiation period aimed at reaching a broader and more comprehensive agreement.

Hormuz reopening central to agreement

A major component of the deal focuses on restoring maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. The memorandum calls for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to safe commercial navigation, a move expected to ease concerns in global energy markets after months of disruption.

The agreement also outlines cooperation between both sides to reduce tensions in the region and maintain freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway.

Iran reiterates no-nuclear weapons commitment

The released document states that Iran has reaffirmed its commitment not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons. It also provides for cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and further discussions on the future of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles as part of upcoming negotiations.

While the MoU establishes broad principles, several key nuclear issues are expected to be addressed during the 60-day negotiation process that follows the signing of the framework agreement.

$300 billion reconstruction fund proposed

One of the most significant economic elements of the agreement is a proposed $300 billion Reconstruction and Development Fund intended to support Iran’s recovery and investment needs. US officials have said the fund would be financed by private-sector investors and international partners rather than American taxpayers.

Officials have also stressed that access to the fund and broader economic benefits would depend on Iran meeting its commitments under the agreement, including compliance with nuclear-related obligations.

Next phase of negotiations

The memorandum establishes a 60-day period for negotiations on a final agreement covering sanctions, nuclear issues and broader regional security concerns. Both countries have pledged to avoid escalation during this period while working toward a longer-term settlement.

The deal is being viewed as an important step toward reducing tensions in the Middle East, though significant negotiations remain before a permanent agreement can be reached.

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Trump announces interim Iran agreement as peace talks move forward

US President Donald Trump has announced an interim agreement with Iran that seeks to maintain the ceasefire and establish a path toward broader peace negotiations in the Middle East.

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Donald Trump statement

US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States and Iran have signed an interim agreement intended to reduce tensions and support ongoing efforts to end the conflict that has destabilised parts of the Middle East.

According to officials familiar with the development, the agreement is designed to extend the current ceasefire and establish a framework for future negotiations between the two countries. The move is being viewed as a significant diplomatic step after months of heightened regional tensions.

Agreement focuses on ceasefire and future negotiations

Officials said the arrangement is aimed at maintaining stability while both sides work toward a broader and more permanent settlement. The agreement reportedly includes provisions intended to support continued dialogue and reduce the risk of renewed hostilities.

While the development has been welcomed as a positive breakthrough, reports indicate that several key issues remain unresolved and will require further negotiations. As a result, the current understanding is being described as an interim framework rather than a final peace treaty.

Long-term settlement still under discussion

Diplomatic efforts are expected to continue in the coming weeks as negotiators seek to address outstanding concerns and work toward a more comprehensive agreement.

The announcement comes amid international calls for de-escalation in the region and renewed efforts to secure lasting stability through diplomatic engagement.

Analysts say the interim agreement could provide an opportunity for both sides to pursue further talks while reducing immediate security concerns. However, the success of the initiative will largely depend on progress made during future negotiations.

As discussions continue, global attention remains focused on whether the agreement can lead to a durable settlement and contribute to broader peace and stability across the Middle East.

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