Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.WASHINGTON: US President-elect Donald Trump hailed a hostage release and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, agreed just five days before he returns to power.
“We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!” Trump said on his Truth Social network, before there was any official announcement from outgoing President Joe Biden’s White House.
In another Truth Social post, Trump claimed full credit for the agreement, saying, “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November”. He believes his administration’s commitment to seeking peace and negotiating deals has sent a powerful signal to the world.
The deal is expected to involve a phased ceasefire, with Hamas releasing 33 of the roughly 100 hostages inside Gaza during an initial 42-day phase. Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, played a key role in negotiating the agreement, working closely with President Biden’s negotiators. Trump thanked Witkoff and vowed that the U.S. will continue to work closely with Israel and its allies to ensure Gaza never again becomes a terrorist safe haven.
The agreement is a significant development in the region, marking a major shift in the dynamics of the conflict. The Trump-era Abraham Accords, which established relations between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, have laid the groundwork for further normalisation agreements. Trump has expressed optimism that the Abraham Accords can be expanded, even suggesting that Iran could be convinced to join.
The Biden administration has been working towards a ceasefire deal for months, and while they may not have secured the agreement themselves, their efforts have undoubtedly contributed to the breakthrough. Trump’s warning of “all hell” breaking loose in the Middle East if Hamas did not release hostages before his inauguration may have also added pressure to reach a deal.
As the agreement is implemented, Palestinians and Israelis are reacting with a mix of emotions. In Gaza, large crowds are celebrating the news, with people cheering and honking car horns. However, some Israelis are expressing skepticism, saying they won’t trust the deal until all the hostages are returned.
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