7/17/2024 - Coinciding with the announced Iranian plot to target Trump, Mike Pompeo and John Bolton - Facebook and Instagram have been blocked in Pakistan for many users.
As of July 16, 2024, many Facebook and Instagram users in Pakistan reported difficulties accessing these services. Although the government or Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) did not officially announce a block, the services appeared to be down for some users.
The disruption coincided with increased security measures in Pakistan for the 10th of Muharram, aimed at preventing any potential issues during processions marking the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (RA).
Some users experienced trouble accessing Facebook and Messenger, while Instagram and WhatsApp were reportedly still functional, although some users faced issues with image and video loading on WhatsApp.
International observers, such as Meta’s status dashboard, did not report any known issues with Facebook login, suggesting the disruption was localized to Pakistan. Netblocks, another global monitoring service, did not detect any complaints from Pakistan regarding Facebook availability.
As of July 17, 2024, the situation remains unclear, with some users still reporting issues accessing Facebook and Instagram. The exact cause of the disruption and any potential government involvement remain unknown.
Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan and Iran to the west, and China to the north. With a population of over 225 million people and a land area of 881,913 square kilometers, Pakistan is the fifth-most populous country in the world and the 33rd largest.
History
Pakistan's history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation in the region dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region was ruled by a succession of powerful empires, including the Mauryan Empire, the Gupta Empire, and the Mughal Empire.
In 1947, India was partitioned into two independent countries: India and Pakistan. The partition was marked by widespread violence and displacement, and the newly-formed Pakistan faced significant challenges in terms of governance and stability.
Over the next several decades, Pakistan faced political instability, military coups, and tensions with neighboring India. The country's history has been marked by a series of conflicts with India over issues such as the disputed territory of Kashmir and the ongoing threat of terrorism.
Culture
Pakistan has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by its long history and its many ethnic groups. Pakistan has two official languages, Urdu and English, and a variety of regional languages.
Pakistani music, art, and dance have made significant contributions to world culture. Qawwali music, which originated in Pakistan, is known for its devotional lyrics and emotional intensity. Pakistani dance, including the traditional Kathak dance and the more modern Bhangra dance, is characterized by energetic footwork and colorful costumes.
Pakistani cuisine is known for its variety and flavor. The country's diverse population has contributed to a range of regional cuisines, including the spicy Punjabi cuisine and the flavorful Sindhi cuisine. Some of the most famous dishes include biryani, karahi, and kebabs.
Pakistan's traditional festivals, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are celebrated throughout the country with colorful parades, traditional food, and prayers.
Economy
Pakistan's economy is the 24th largest in the world and is considered a developing economy. The country's economy is driven by a combination of industry, services, and agriculture.
Pakistan is a major exporter of textiles, rice, and leather products. The country's manufacturing sector has also grown significantly in recent years, with industries such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automotive production becoming increasingly important.
Despite its economic success, Pakistan faces significant challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and a high level of public debt. Additionally, the ongoing threat of terrorism has had a significant impact on the country's economic outlook, leading to a decline in foreign investment and tourism.
Politics
Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic with a multi-party system. The country's political system is based on a separation of powers, with the president as the head of the executive branch, the parliament as the legislative branch, and the Supreme Court as the judicial branch.
Pakistan has a long history of political instability, with military coups and political violence leading to frequent changes in government. The country also faces ongoing tensions with neighboring India, particularly over the disputed territory of Kashmir.
Recent years have been marked by efforts to improve governance and economic reform in Pakistan. The country's current prime minister, Imran Khan, has focused on tackling corruption and improving the country's economy during his tenure in office.
Pakistan is a complex and diverse country with a rich history, culture, and economy. Its position as a developing economy and a major exporter of textiles and other products has made it an important player in the global community. Pakistani culture, music, art, and cuisine have also made significant contributions to the world. However, the country also faces significant challenges in terms of poverty, unemployment, and political instability. The ongoing threat of terrorism and tensions with neighboring India further complicate the country's political and economic outlook. The future of Pakistan will likely be marked by both opportunities and challenges, as the country continues to navigate its complex social and political landscape and adapt to the changing global environment.
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Popular News Websites in Pakistan:
Pakistan, a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, possesses a vibrant media landscape that caters to the information needs of its populace. News websites play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, disseminating news, and reflecting the social, political, and cultural dynamics of the nation. In this article, we delve into some of Pakistan's popular news websites, providing insights into their reach, influence, and the dynamic media environment in which they operate.
Dawn (www.dawn.com):
Dawn is one of Pakistan's most reputable and widely read English-language newspapers, and its website is a popular source for news and analysis. With comprehensive coverage of domestic and international news, politics, business, culture, and more, Dawn caters to a broad readership. The website is known for its balanced reporting, in-depth features, and op-ed pieces, offering a platform for diverse perspectives and critical analysis.
Geo News (www.geo.tv):
Geo News is a leading news channel in Pakistan, and its website serves as a popular online news destination. Providing 24/7 news coverage, Geo News covers a wide range of topics, including politics, current affairs, sports, entertainment, and technology. The website features video news clips, live streaming, and interactive sections, ensuring readers stay informed and engaged.
Express Tribune (tribune.com.pk):
The Express Tribune, affiliated with the International New York Times, is a widely recognized English-language newspaper in Pakistan. Its website delivers comprehensive news coverage, opinion pieces, and feature articles on diverse topics. The Express Tribune has a reputation for its balanced reporting, investigative journalism, and critical analysis. It also provides a platform for reader engagement through comment sections and interactive features.
ARY News (arynews.tv):
ARY News, a prominent news channel in Pakistan, maintains an online presence through its website. With a focus on breaking news, politics, current affairs, business, and sports, ARY News delivers news updates across various mediums, including articles, videos, and live streaming. The website offers a user-friendly interface and engages readers through comment sections and social media integration.
Samaa TV (www.samaa.tv):
Samaa TV, a widely watched news channel in Pakistan, also operates a popular news website. Samaa TV's website provides comprehensive news coverage, videos, and live streaming of news programs. It covers a broad range of topics, including politics, social issues, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. The website's interactive elements, including comment sections and social media integration, foster reader engagement.
Pakistan's media landscape is dynamic and diverse, with news websites playing a significant role in shaping public opinion and providing news coverage across a wide range of topics. The popular news websites mentioned above offer comprehensive and reliable news content, catering to the diverse information needs of Pakistan's population. These platforms bring together balanced reporting, in-depth analysis, multimedia content, and interactive features, ensuring readers stay informed and engaged. As Pakistan's media environment continues to evolve, these news websites are likely to adapt and innovate, ensuring their continued relevance and influence in the nation's media sphere.
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