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The UAE’s Strategic Shift: Why the Pivot to Asia Is a Survival Necessity

The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East is shifting beneath our feet. While the world watches the friction of the U.S.-Iran conflict, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is quietly-and brilliantly rewriting its economic destiny. It’s no longer just about being a bridge between East and West; the U AE is fundamentally deciding that its future lies in the East. Navigating Beyond the Shadow of Regional Conflict In my view, the UAE’s recent distancing from traditional blocs like OPEC and the GCC isn't just a policy change; it’s a masterclass in strategic autonomy. For decades, the Gulf states have been viewed through the lens of Western dependency. However, the recent waves of drone and missile threats have proven that the UAE can no longer afford to be a bystander in a -dangerous neighborhood. By pivoting to Asia, the Emirates is seeking strategic depth that the West simply cannot provide in the current climate. Why the UAE’s Exit from OPEC Was a Bold Power Move The decision to leav...
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Petrol and Diesel Prices Hiked in Pakistan Petrol and Diesel Prices Hiked in Pakistan: Rs5 and Rs7.32 Increase Effective from February 16

 

The government has raised petrol prices by Rs5 per litre to Rs258.17 and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs7.32 to Rs275.70 per litre for the fortnight ending February 28, 2026. Announced late on Sunday from Islamabad, the revision stems from rising international crude rates and input from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra). This comes as a fresh blow to households already grappling with inflation, especially with diesel fueling much of the transport and agriculture sector. 

How the Hike Hits Everyday Life

Diesel’s jump now at Rs275.70 will ripple through trucking, buses, tractors, and even trains, pushing up costs for vegetables, grains, and daily essentials. Petrol at Rs258.17 affects bikes, rickshaws, and cars, squeezing middle-class budgets in cities like Karachi and Lahore. The Petroleum Division’s notification highlights these as key revenue drivers, with monthly sales hitting 700,000-800,000 tonnes.

Levies and Government Revenue Angle

Even with zero GST on fuel, the government collects hefty levies: Rs87 per litre on petrol (including Rs2.50 climate support) and Rs79 on diesel, plus Rs17-18 in customs duty regardless of imports or local refining. Dealers and companies pocket another Rs17 in margins. This setup helped rake in Rs1.161 trillion from petroleum levy last fiscal year, projected to hit Rs1.470 trillion this time a 27% jump amid fiscal pressures.

Reactions Pouring In on Social Media

Pakistanis are voicing frustration online over the timing and impact. Mohsi summed it up bluntly in his post: Government hikes fuel prices – petrol Rs258.17, diesel Rs275.70. Pakistan Economic Network shared expectations ahead of the hike here, while Grok confirmed the details in a timely reply on X.

Rs5 and Rs7.32 Increase Effective from February 16

The government has raised petrol prices by Rs5 per litre to Rs258.17 and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs7.32 to Rs275.70 per litre for the fortnight ending February 28, 2026. Announced late on Sunday from Islamabad, the revision stems from rising international crude rates and input from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra). This comes as a fresh blow to households already grappling with inflation, especially with diesel fueling much of the transport and agriculture sector.


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