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 Here are the latest developments in Pakistan as of February 22, 2025:

Cricket Rivalry: Pakistan vs. India in Champions Trophy

Pakistan and India are set to face off in a highly anticipated Champions Trophy match in Dubai on Sunday. This encounter is especially significant as India has opted to play all its matches in Dubai, citing security concerns, and has avoided traveling to Pakistan. Historically, India has dominated recent One Day International (ODI) encounters, winning seven out of eight matches. Pakistan, the defending champions, are under pressure after a significant defeat to New Zealand in their opening match. Coach Aaqib Javed remains optimistic, highlighting the potential of Pakistan's fast bowlers to deliver a standout performance against their archrivals. citeturn0news18turn0search2

Security Operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

In Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistani security forces conducted a raid on a militant hideout, resulting in an intense shootout that left six militants dead. The operation targeted members of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a group that has escalated attacks in the region since the Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan in 2021. Additionally, a larger operation is underway in the Kurram district to combat militants responsible for attacks on Shiite communities and security forces. This week, 48 suspects were arrested in connection with these attacks, as authorities aim to restore order and reopen key roads in the area. citeturn0news23

Polio Vaccination Campaigns Amidst Violence

A police officer assigned to protect polio vaccination workers was fatally shot by gunmen in Bajur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This tragic incident occurred shortly after the commencement of a polio vaccination drive in the region. Bajur, once a stronghold of the Pakistani Taliban, has witnessed similar attacks in the past. Despite the dangers, Pakistan continues its efforts to eradicate polio, one of the few countries where the disease remains endemic. citeturn0news21

Afghan Refugees Facing Deportation

Pakistan has intensified the arrest and deportation of Afghan citizens lacking proper documentation, a move the Afghan Embassy perceives as an effort to expel all Afghan refugees. The Pakistani government asserts that these measures aim to facilitate the swift return of Afghans to their homeland. Since 2023, over 800,000 Afghans have been repatriated or expelled. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has set a deadline of March 31 for the deportation of those awaiting relocation to third countries. This policy shift has raised concerns among the Afghan community in Pakistan, many of whom fear imminent deportation. citeturn0news19

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