PM Shehbaz calls Makkah pact a ‘historic milesto…

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket’s upper stage has crashed into the Moon after becoming uncontrollable following the completion of its mission, drawing renewed attention to the growing challenge of space debris and the long-term sustainability of space exploration. According to reports, the approximately 4,000-kilogram upper stage was originally used to launch a lunar lander into space. After successfully completing its primary mission, the rocket stage remained in space but could no longer be actively controlled. Over time, its trajectory led to an inevitable collision with the Moon. The impact occurred with an estimated force comparable to nearly three tons of TNT, creating another artificial impact site on the lunar surface. While the collision was significant, experts stressed that it does not pose any immediate danger to Earth or its inhabitants. NASA has confirmed that the incident presents no direct threat to Earth. However, scientists say the event serves as a reminder of the increasing amount of human-made debris orbiting Earth and traveling through deep space. As the number of space missions continues to grow, properly managing retired rocket stages and other spacecraft components is becoming an increasingly important issue for the global space community. Space debris has become a major concern for space agencies and private companies alike, as abandoned rocket stages, inactive satellites, and fragments from previous missions can create risks for future spacecraft. Experts believe that stronger international cooperation and improved end-of-mission disposal strategies will be essential to reduce the accumulation of debris in Earth’s orbit and beyond. Researchers also noted that impacts on the Moon are not uncommon. Natural meteoroids frequently strike the lunar surface, leaving countless craters over billions of years. In addition, several spacecraft have intentionally or accidentally impacted the Moon during previous missions, making such events scientifically valuable in some cases. Although the Falcon 9 upper stage’s collision is unusual because it involved an uncontrolled commercial rocket component, experts emphasized that it should not be viewed as an immediate cause for alarm. Instead, they say it highlights the need for responsible space operations as exploration of the Moon and deep space accelerates. The incident underscores the growing importance of sustainable space practices, ensuring that future missions can continue safely while minimizing the long-term impact of space debris on both Earth and the wider space environment.

Islamabad: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that banned militant groups, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), are operating from Afghan territory under the protection of the Afghan Taliban. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting, Dar described terrorism originating from Afghanistan as a serious threat to regional peace and stability. He said these militant groups continue to carry out attacks from across the border, posing a major security challenge for Pakistan. Dar stated that Pakistan has witnessed more than 2,000 terrorist attacks so far this year, resulting in the deaths of over 560 civilians. He also claimed that evidence had emerged linking some Afghan nationals to several of these attacks. The foreign minister urged SCO member states to call on the Afghan Taliban to fulfill their counterterrorism commitments and prevent Afghan territory from being used by militant organizations. Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, Dar said dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect remain the only sustainable solutions to regional disputes. He highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting diplomatic engagement and stressed the importance of supporting ongoing peace initiatives. Dar also noted that Pakistan hosted talks between Iran and the United States in April 2026, which, according to him, led to the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding in June 2026. He urged the international community to support diplomatic efforts while remaining vigilant against attempts to undermine the peace process. Looking ahead, Dar said Pakistan will assume the chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of State in September 2026 and host the SCO Summit in 2027. During its chairmanship, Pakistan plans to prioritize regional connectivity, trade, agricultural cooperation, youth exchanges, and stronger people-to-people ties. On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Dar also met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional developments, and efforts to promote peace and stability. Dar emphasized the need for restraint, de-escalation, and continued diplomatic engagement in addressing regional challenges, while both sides agreed to maintain close coordination on issues of mutual interest.