August 2026 Edition
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August 2026 Current Affairs MCQs & Solutions
Top national & international current affairs questions for CSS, PMS, FPSC, PPSC, and NTS screening tests.
#5021
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]
#5022
Consider the following statements about the political transition in Gaza as of July 2026: 1. Hamas has officially dissolved its government emergency committee to facilitate the transition to the NCAG. 2. The NCAG has been operating from within Gaza City for the past six months. 3. The issue of Hamas's disarmament remains a primary unresolved obstacle to the peace process. 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 the dissolution was announced on July 6, 2026. Statement 2 is incorrect because the NCAG has remained based outside of Gaza for months due to Israeli objections. Statement 3 is correct as disarmament remains the central point of contention stalling the second phase of the ceasefire. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2013378/hamas-announces-dissolution-of-gaza-governing-body, 06 Jul 2026]
#5023
Which of the following statements regarding the diplomatic outreach by Pakistan in March 2026 is INCORRECT?
(a) The Prime Minister expressed solidarity with the Iranian people.
(b) The Prime Minister officially declared war on the United States.
(c) The Prime Minister offered condolences for the loss of lives.
(d) The Prime Minister advocated for a return to dialogue and diplomacy.
Explanation: Pakistan maintained a stance of facilitating peace and de-escalation, not declaring war. The other three statements accurately reflect the content of the Prime Minister's official communication. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984609/in-phone-call-with-pezeshkian-pm-stresses-urgent-need-for-collective-efforts-for-de-escalation-in-mideast, 23 Mar 2026]
#5024
On March 23, 2026, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with which Iranian leader to discuss regional de-escalation?
(a) Ebrahim Raisi
(b) Masoud Pezeshkian
(c) Ali Khamenei
(d) None of these
Explanation: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 23, 2026, to address the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East. Ebrahim Raisi is a former president, and Ali Khamenei was the supreme leader who passed away during the conflict. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984609/in-phone-call-with-pezeshkian-pm-stresses-urgent-need-for-collective-efforts-for-de-escalation-in-mideast, 23 Mar 2026]
#5025
Who is the head of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) as of July 2026?
(a) Ismail al-Thawabta
(b) Ali Shaath
(c) Mohammed al-Farra
(d) Hazem Qassem
Explanation: Ali Shaath is the designated head of the NCAG, the technocratic body tasked with assuming administrative control in Gaza. Ismail al-Thawabta serves as the head of Hamas's government media office, while Mohammed al-Farra was the head of the committee that was dissolved. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2013378/hamas-announces-dissolution-of-gaza-governing-body, 06 Jul 2026]
#5026
Consider the following statements about the earthquake disaster in Venezuela: 1. The earthquakes struck on June 25, 2026, during a public holiday. 2. The US Geological Survey reported that the two major tremors occurred within one minute of each other. 3. More than 24,000 people were listed as unaccounted for on a tracking website by the morning of June 25, 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: All three statements are factually accurate based on the reports regarding the timing of the quakes, the USGS data on the tremors, and the figures provided by the opposition-led tracking website. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2010737/thousands-feared-dead-in-venezuela-after-two-major-earthquakes-world-sends-aid-rescue-teams, 25 Jun 2026]
#5027
Consider the following statements about the diplomatic situation in March 2026: 1. The conflict resulted in strained relations between Iran and various Gulf nations. 2. Iran has accepted responsibility for all retaliatory attacks targeting US bases in the region. 3. Pakistan has committed to playing a constructive role in facilitating regional peace. 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 2 is incorrect because Iran denies having a role in some of the attacks, despite accepting responsibility for others. Statements 1 and 3 are factually accurate based on the diplomatic context provided. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984609/in-phone-call-with-pezeshkian-pm-stresses-urgent-need-for-collective-efforts-for-de-escalation-in-mideast, 23 Mar 2026]
#5028
Consider the following statements about the US military operations in the Middle East as of March 13, 2026: 1. The KC-135 aircraft involved in the crash was designed for aerial refueling. 2. The US military confirmed that the crash was the result of a direct missile strike by Iranian forces. 3. The US has deployed a significant number of aircraft to the region to support operations against Iran. 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 the KC-135 is a refueling tanker. Statement 3 is correct regarding the deployment of aircraft. Statement 2 is incorrect because the military explicitly ruled out hostile fire. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981530/six-us-service-members-killed-in-plane-crash-over-iraq, 13 Mar 2026]
#5029
The ongoing war between Israel and Iran, which led to the closure of religious sites in Jerusalem, began on which date in 2026?
(a) February 14, 2026
(b) March 12, 2026
(c) March 05, 2026
(d) February 28, 2026
Explanation: The text specifies that the war between Israel and the United States against Iran commenced on February 28, 2026. This date serves as the timeline anchor for the subsequent security restrictions. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984062/jerusalems-muslims-despair-on-eidul-fitr-as-access-to-al-aqsa-mosque-denied-amid-us-israeli-war-on-iran, 20 Mar 2026]
#5030
On March 20, 2026, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation regarding regional de-escalation with the President of which country?
(a) Kazakhstan
(b) Azerbaijan
(c) Turkmenistan
(d) None of these
Explanation: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan to discuss the hostilities in the Gulf region and exchange Eidul Fitr greetings. Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan were not mentioned as participants in these specific diplomatic calls. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984038/calls-for-de-escalation-in-middle-east-as-pm-shehbaz-speaks-to-several-world-leaders, 20 Mar 2026]
#5031
Which of the following holy sites in Jerusalem was closed by Israeli authorities alongside the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the 2026 conflict?
(a) Garden of Gethsemane
(b) Dome of the Rock
(c) Church of the Holy Sepulchre
(d) Mount of Olives
Explanation: The report states that Israeli authorities closed access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Western Wall due to security concerns. The other options are significant sites but were not listed as part of the specific closure order mentioned. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984062/jerusalems-muslims-despair-on-eidul-fitr-as-access-to-al-aqsa-mosque-denied-amid-us-israeli-war-on-iran, 20 Mar 2026]
#5032
What is the official slogan announced by the Iranian leadership for the year 2026?
(a) Global solidarity against the Zionist enemy
(b) Resistance economy in light of national unity and national security
(c) Strengthening the Resistance Front through regional integration
(d) Economic prosperity through international cooperation
Explanation: The Supreme Leader declared 'resistance economy in light of national unity and national security' as the guiding slogan for the year to counter economic warfare. Other options represent general policy themes but are not the official slogan. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984126/supreme-leader-mojtaba-denies-irans-role-in-attacks-in-oman-turkiye-dubs-them-false-flag-tactic, 20 Mar 2026]
#5033
Who is the current Supreme Leader of Iran as of March 20, 2026?
(a) Ali Khamenei
(b) Mojtaba Khamenei
(c) Ebrahim Raisi
(d) None of these
Explanation: Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the position of Supreme Leader following the assassination of his father, Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026. Ali Khamenei is the deceased predecessor, not the current leader. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984126/supreme-leader-mojtaba-denies-irans-role-in-attacks-in-oman-turkiye-dubs-them-false-flag-tactic, 20 Mar 2026]
#5034
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]
#5035
What is the maximum number of people permitted to gather nationwide in Israel under the security guidelines implemented in March 2026?
(a) 50 people
(b) 25 people
(c) 100 people
(d) 200 people
Explanation: To limit potential casualties from missile barrages, Israeli authorities banned gatherings of more than 50 people nationwide. This restriction directly impacted the ability of worshippers to congregate at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984062/jerusalems-muslims-despair-on-eidul-fitr-as-access-to-al-aqsa-mosque-denied-amid-us-israeli-war-on-iran, 20 Mar 2026]
#5036
Consider the following statements about the diplomatic engagements of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in March 2026: 1. The Prime Minister held discussions with the President of Uzbekistan regarding the Gulf region. 2. The diplomatic calls were conducted exclusively to discuss bilateral trade tariffs. 3. The Prime Minister reiterated the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve regional disputes. 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 the PM spoke with President Mirziyoyev. Statement 3 is correct as the PM consistently emphasized diplomacy. Statement 2 is incorrect because the primary focus was regional de-escalation, not trade tariffs. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984038/calls-for-de-escalation-in-middle-east-as-pm-shehbaz-speaks-to-several-world-leaders, 20 Mar 2026]
#5037
Consider the following statements about the closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in 2026: 1. This is the first time the site has been closed during the last 10 days of Ramazan since the 1967 annexation. 2. Israeli authorities claim the closure is necessary for public safety due to the ongoing war. 3. The closure resulted in a total ban on all forms of prayer within the Old City of Jerusalem. 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 supported by researchers cited in the text, and Statement 2 reflects the official Israeli position. Statement 3 is incorrect because the text notes that street prayers were eventually permitted outside the Old City gates, meaning prayer was not entirely banned in the city. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984062/jerusalems-muslims-despair-on-eidul-fitr-as-access-to-al-aqsa-mosque-denied-amid-us-israeli-war-on-iran, 20 Mar 2026]
#5038
Consider the following statements about the current geopolitical stance of Iran in 2026: 1. The Iranian leadership views the current regional conflict as an imposed war. 2. The Supreme Leader has accused Israel of using false flag tactics to create discord with neighbors. 3. Iran has officially accepted responsibility for all attacks occurring in Turkiye and Oman. 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 accurate reflections of the Supreme Leader's recent public statements. Statement 3 is false because Iran has explicitly denied responsibility for the attacks in Turkiye and Oman. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984126/supreme-leader-mojtaba-denies-irans-role-in-attacks-in-oman-turkiye-dubs-them-false-flag-tactic, 20 Mar 2026]
#5039
Which of the following statements regarding the diplomatic activities of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on March 20, 2026, is INCORRECT?
(a) The Prime Minister announced a formal military intervention in the Middle East conflict.
(b) The Prime Minister discussed the situation in Iran and the Gulf region with Malaysian leadership.
(c) The Prime Minister expressed solidarity with Azerbaijan regarding attacks on its territory.
(d) The Prime Minister utilized the occasion of Eidul Fitr to facilitate diplomatic dialogue.
Explanation: The Prime Minister advocated for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions; there was no announcement of military intervention. Options A, B, and D are factually accurate descriptions of the diplomatic events. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984038/calls-for-de-escalation-in-middle-east-as-pm-shehbaz-speaks-to-several-world-leaders, 20 Mar 2026]
#5040
Consider the following statements about the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz as of March 16, 2026: 1. Iran has effectively closed the waterway using drones and naval mines. 2. The US-Israeli war on Iran is currently in its third week. 3. Dubai airport operations were temporarily suspended due to Iranian drone attacks. 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 accurate based on the report: the Strait is closed by mines and drones, the conflict is in its third week, and Dubai airport faced temporary closures due to Iranian drone activity. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1982742/trump-upset-as-key-us-partners-shun-call-for-hormuz-warship-escorts, 16 Mar 2026]