March 2025 Edition
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March 2025 Current Affairs MCQs & Solutions
Top national & international current affairs questions for CSS, PMS, FPSC, PPSC, and NTS screening tests.
#2641
Which countries participated in the quadrilateral ministerial meeting held in Islamabad on March 29, 2026?
(a) Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye
(b) Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Turkiye
(c) Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia
(d) None of these
Explanation: The quadrilateral meeting in Islamabad focused on the Middle East crisis and included the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye. Iran was a subject of the mediation efforts discussed, not a participant in the quadrilateral ministerial group. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1986574/pm-shehbaz-commends-kingdoms-remarkable-restraint-in-meeting-with-saudi-fm-assures-him-of-pakistans-full-support, 29 Mar 2026]
#2642
Consider the following statements about the diplomatic visit on March 12, 2026: 1. The visit was conducted at the invitation of the Saudi Crown Prince. 2. The discussions focused exclusively on bilateral trade agreements. 3. The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the Kingdom's long-standing support to Pakistan. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: The visit was indeed at the invitation of the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister conveyed appreciation for the Kingdom's support. However, the discussions were focused on regional security and tensions, not exclusively on trade. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981279/in-restricted-meeting-with-saudi-crown-prince-pm-shehbaz-assures-him-of-pakistans-full-solidarity-support, 12 Mar 2026]
#2643
Which media organization's X accounts were banned by the UAE in March 2026?
(a) Al-Arabiya
(b) Al-Jazeera
(c) Sky News Arabia
(d) Asharq News
Explanation: The UAE banned the X accounts of the Saudi-owned television network Al-Arabiya in March 2026 during a period of heightened diplomatic tension. This action was a notable example of the friction that the July 2026 social media posts sought to address. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017482/saudi-uae-ministers-use-social-media-to-signal-unity-after-months-of-tension, 22 Jul 2026]
#2644
The quadrilateral moot held in Islamabad on March 29, 2026, focused on de-escalation efforts in which region?
(a) South Asia
(b) The Middle East
(c) Central Asia
(d) The Horn of Africa
Explanation: The quadrilateral moot involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye was specifically convened to address the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The discussions aimed to facilitate a ceasefire between the US and Iran. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1991120/dar-briefs-turkish-saudi-egyptian-fms-on-islamabad-talks-reaffirms-support-for-diplomacy-and-dialogue, 12 Apr 2026]
#2645
Consider the following statements about the 2026 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire: 1. The conflict between the two nations escalated significantly on March 2, 2026. 2. The ceasefire agreement includes provisions to prevent non-state armed groups from conducting hostile activities. 3. This ceasefire marks the first time in 34 years that representatives from Israel and Lebanon have met in Washington, D.C. for such talks. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: All three statements are factually correct based on the provided information. The conflict escalation date, the security provisions regarding non-state actors, and the historical context of the Washington meetings are all verified details of the 2026 diplomatic event. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1992354/10-day-ceasefire-between-israel-lebanon-takes-effect, 16 Apr 2026]
#2646
Which international agreement did India unilaterally suspend following the Pahalgam attack in 2025?
(a) Simla Agreement
(b) Tashkent Declaration
(c) Lahore Declaration
(d) Indus Waters Treaty
Explanation: India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty as part of its aggressive measures against Pakistan. The other agreements listed are historical diplomatic frameworks that were not the primary target of this specific suspension. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1994381/pakistan-rejects-indian-propaganda-on-pahalgam-attack-deplores-weaponisation-of-false-narrative, 23 Apr 2026]
#2647
Consider the following statements about the 2025 Pahalgam incident: 1. The attack primarily targeted tourists in the disputed Himalayan region. 2. It was the deadliest armed attack in the region since the year 2000. 3. India provided conclusive evidence linking Pakistan to the attack immediately after the incident. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are factually correct based on the report. Statement 3 is incorrect because the report explicitly states that New Delhi blamed Pakistan without providing any evidence. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1994381/pakistan-rejects-indian-propaganda-on-pahalgam-attack-deplores-weaponisation-of-false-narrative, 23 Apr 2026]
#2648
What was the name of the military operation conducted by Pakistan in response to Indian adventurism following the 2025 Pahalgam attack?
(a) Operation Zarb-e-Azb
(b) Operation Bunyanum Marsoos
(c) Operation Swift Retort
(d) None of these
Explanation: The Foreign Office explicitly referenced Operation Bunyanum Marsoos as the response to India's military actions in 2025. Other operations listed are either historical or unrelated to this specific timeline. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1994381/pakistan-rejects-indian-propaganda-on-pahalgam-attack-deplores-weaponisation-of-false-narrative, 23 Apr 2026]
#2649
Consider the following statements about the 2026 conflict dynamics: 1. The Lebanese government has officially sought full normalization of relations with Israel. 2. The Israeli military reported the death of 17 soldiers in southern Lebanon since the fighting erupted in March 2026. 3. US President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding a potential peace deal between Israel and Lebanon in 2026. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statement 1 is false because the Lebanese Prime Minister explicitly stated that Lebanon is not seeking normalization, but rather a security agreement and withdrawal. Statements 2 and 3 are factually accurate based on the reported developments in the conflict. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1998133/israel-strikes-beirut-for-the-first-time-since-ceasefire, 06 May 2026]
#2650
According to security sources on March 30, 2026, what is the primary objective behind India's alleged plan to use Pakistani prisoners in a false flag operation?
(a) To facilitate a prisoner exchange program
(b) To divert attention from diplomatic humiliation
(c) To conduct a joint border security exercise
(d) None of these
Explanation: Security sources indicate that the operation is intended to cover up India's diplomatic failures and divert public attention away from Pakistan. Option A is incorrect as there is no mention of a prisoner exchange, and option C is factually inconsistent with the nature of a false flag operation. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1986909/india-planning-false-flag-operation-using-pakistani-prisoners-security-sources, 30 Mar 2026]
#2651
Consider the following statements about the security situation reported on March 30, 2026: 1. India is allegedly planning a false flag operation using Pakistani prisoners. 2. The prisoners involved include individuals currently held in Indian jails. 3. Security sources claim this move is intended to justify a permanent border closure. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are factually supported by the security reports regarding the exploitation of prisoners. Statement 3 is incorrect as the reports cite diplomatic humiliation and diversion as the motives, not a permanent border closure. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1986909/india-planning-false-flag-operation-using-pakistani-prisoners-security-sources, 30 Mar 2026]
#2652
Which of the following statements regarding the diplomatic efforts in Islamabad on March 29, 2026, is INCORRECT?
(a) The foreign ministers discussed ways to bring an early end to the regional war.
(b) The participants agreed to form a committee of senior officials to work out modalities for cooperation.
(c) The US and Iran have expressed confidence in Pakistan to facilitate potential talks.
(d) The meeting resulted in an immediate ceasefire agreement between all regional belligerents.
Explanation: While the ministers advocated for dialogue and diplomacy to end the conflict, no immediate ceasefire agreement was signed or announced during the meeting. The other statements accurately reflect the outcomes of the discussions. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1986541/iran-us-have-expressed-confidence-in-pakistan-to-facilitate-talks-will-be-honoured-to-host-dialogue-in-coming-days-fm-dar, 29 Mar 2026]
#2653
Consider the following statements regarding the diplomatic status of the conflict as of March 25, 2026: 1. Iran has officially accepted the 15-point US peace plan. 2. The White House claims that negotiations with Iran are currently productive. 3. Iran maintains that no negotiations will occur until its five conditions are met. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect because Iran rejected the US proposal. Statements 2 and 3 are correct as they reflect the conflicting official positions of the White House and the Iranian government respectively. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1985253/iran-rejects-us-proposal-lays-out-5-conditions-for-ending-war, 25 Mar 2026]
#2654
Which of the following is NOT a component of the reported 15-point peace proposal discussed on March 25, 2026?
(a) A one-month ceasefire between the involved parties
(b) The lifting of economic sanctions against Iran
(c) The surrender of Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles
(d) The immediate and unconditional annexation of disputed maritime territories
Explanation: The peace proposal focuses on nuclear non-proliferation, a ceasefire, and the lifting of sanctions. Annexation of territory is not part of the reported diplomatic framework. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1985150/us-reportedly-sends-peace-plan-as-iran-opens-strait-of-hormuz-to-non-hostile-oil-vessels, 25 Mar 2026]
#2655
Consider the following statements regarding the diplomatic developments reported on March 25, 2026: 1. The United States has proposed a one-month ceasefire to facilitate negotiations. 2. Iran has agreed to allow safe passage for all vessels, including those from hostile nations, through the Strait of Hormuz. 3. The proposed deal includes provisions for Iran to receive assistance in developing civil nuclear energy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as a one-month ceasefire is part of the proposal. Statement 2 is incorrect because Iran specifically limited safe passage to 'non-hostile' vessels. Statement 3 is correct as the proposal includes assistance for the Bushehr civil nuclear site. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1985150/us-reportedly-sends-peace-plan-as-iran-opens-strait-of-hormuz-to-non-hostile-oil-vessels, 25 Mar 2026]
#2656
On March 25, 2026, Iran announced that it would allow 'non-hostile' vessels to pass through which strategic maritime chokepoint?
(a) Strait of Malacca
(b) Strait of Hormuz
(c) Suez Canal
(d) Bab-el-Mandeb Strait
Explanation: The Strait of Hormuz is the gateway for approximately one-fifth of the world's oil. Iran's decision to allow safe passage for non-hostile vessels is a significant de-escalation measure. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1985150/us-reportedly-sends-peace-plan-as-iran-opens-strait-of-hormuz-to-non-hostile-oil-vessels, 25 Mar 2026]
#2657
Who served as the Information Minister of Pakistan during the announcement of the temporary pause in March 2026?
(a) Shibli Faraz
(b) Marriyum Aurangzeb
(c) Fawad Chaudhry
(d) Attaullah Tarar
Explanation: Attaullah Tarar, as the Information Minister, officially announced the temporary pause in Operation Ghazab lil-Haq on March 18, 2026. The other individuals listed are former information ministers. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984967/clerics-from-pakistan-afghanistan-appeal-to-authorities-to-extend-pause-in-fighting-till-eidul-azha, 24 Mar 2026]
#2658
Who is the new Supreme Leader of Iran as of March 2026?
(a) Ali Khamenei
(b) Mojtaba Khamenei
(c) Hassan Rouhani
(d) Ebrahim Raisi
Explanation: Mojtaba Khamenei was named the new Supreme Leader of Iran following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei. Ali Khamenei is the former leader, while the other names are not current holders of this position. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984191/trump-says-considering-winding-down-iran-war-but-rules-out-ceasefire, 21 Mar 2026]
#2659
Which of the following statements regarding the Torkham border incident on March 12, 2026, is INCORRECT?
(a) The humanitarian pause lasted until the body was successfully retrieved.
(b) The body was identified by Afghan authorities as an Afghan national.
(c) Both sides utilized white flags during the meeting at the Zero Point.
(d) The Pakistani delegation included local figures such as Mufti Ejaz and Shah Khalid.
Explanation: The statement that the body was successfully retrieved is incorrect, as the retrieval failed due to the expiration of the deadline and administrative delays. The other statements are factually accurate. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981371/brief-pause-in-fighting-between-pak-afghan-forces-to-identify-retrieve-body-at-torkham, 12 Mar 2026]
#2660
Consider the following statements about the US-Saudi nuclear cooperation agreement: 1. The agreement includes provisions for bilateral safeguards. 2. The deal is subject to review by the US Congress. 3. The agreement was signed in 2025 to coincide with the mutual defence pact. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are correct as the deal includes bilateral safeguards and requires Congressional review. Statement 3 is incorrect because the nuclear agreement was signed in 2026, whereas the mutual defence pact mentioned in the text was signed in 2025. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017738/us-announces-civilian-nuclear-deal-with-saudi-arabia-says-it-includes-non-proliferation-safeguards, 23 Jul 2026]