Islamabad, 9 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to discuss the prevailing political situation, particularly developments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) proposed long march towards the federal capital. According to sources, the prime minister contacted the JUI-F chief late at night following a meeting chaired by him to review the political situation. During the conversation, Maulana Fazlur Rehman reiterated that issues should be resolved through mutual understanding, dialogue and political engagement. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s political services and conciliatory approach, saying the federal government had made every possible effort to resolve disputes through political means. The prime minister said PTI’s insistence on proceeding with its long march and its alleged lack of focus on measures to combat terrorism had contributed to the prevailing difficulties. He stressed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and the opposition should take the situation seriously and work together to resolve the issues. Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed that the government remained willing to engage in negotiations and pursue a political settlement. However, he urged the opposition to avoid advancing towards the federal capital, warning that such a move could aggravate the situation instead of resolving it. The prime minister also highlighted the federal government’s efforts to strengthen the national economy, emphasizing that the government sought to promote political stability and resolve national challenges through dialogue and constructive engagement.