Pakistan court extends pre-arrest bail of Imran Khan in multiple cases

IANS | February 18, 2026 9:54 AM

Islamabad, Feb 18 (IANS) A district and sessions court in Pakistan has directed the prosecution to ensure the appearance of former Prime Minister Imran Khan at the next hearing, either in person or through a video link, while extending his pre-arrest bail in five cases, including one related to the alleged attempted murder of former minister Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha, local media reported on Wednesday.

Armed teen arrested outside US Capitol

IANS | February 18, 2026 7:33 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) An 18-year-old man wearing a tactical vest and carrying a loaded shotgun was arrested after running toward the US Capitol, prompting a swift response from United States Capitol Police (USCP) officers.

Substantively, nothing has changed in US-Pakistan relationship: Expert

Lalit K Jha | February 18, 2026 7:29 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) Despite improved optics and high-level engagement over the past year, the substance of the US-Pakistan relationship remains largely unchanged, a leading South Asia expert said, cautioning that symbolism has yet to translate into tangible economic or military gains for Islamabad.

US lawmakers urge indictment of Cuban leader Raul Castro

IANS | February 18, 2026 7:01 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) Four Republican lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to direct the Justice Department to reopen a criminal probe into Cuban leader Raul Castro’s alleged role in the 1996 shootdown of two civilian aircraft operated by Brothers to the Rescue, calling for possible charges and international arrest notices.