October 2026 Edition
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October 2026 Current Affairs MCQs & Solutions
Top national & international current affairs questions for CSS, PMS, FPSC, PPSC, and NTS screening tests.
#18661
Who is the current Supreme Leader of Iran as of April 2026?
(a) Ali Khamenei
(b) Mojtaba Khamenei
(c) Ebrahim Raisi
(d) None of these
Explanation: Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the role of Supreme Leader following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, 2026. Ali Khamenei is the late predecessor, not the current leader. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1990308/in-written-message-iran-supreme-leader-says-tehran-does-not-seek-war-but-will-not-renounce-legitimate-rights, 09 Apr 2026]
#18662
Who is the current Chief Minister of Sindh who announced the fare freeze on April 5, 2026?
(a) Syed Qaim Ali Shah
(b) Murad Ali Shah
(c) Sardar Ali Shah
(d) None of these
Explanation: Murad Ali Shah is the Chief Minister of Sindh who held the press conference at CM House to announce the agreement with transporters. The other names are either former chief ministers or provincial ministers not holding the CM office at the time of the event. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1988836/sindh-cm-secures-fare-freeze-after-talks-with-transporters-amid-fuel-price-hike, 05 Apr 2026]
#18663
Which of the following statements regarding the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's response on April 27, 2026, is INCORRECT?
(a) The Ministry claimed that Pakistan's targeting is intelligence-based and precise.
(b) The Ministry alleged that Afghan media reports were amplified by Indian media.
(c) The Ministry stated that the Afghan Taliban regime relies on misinformation to cover up governance failures.
(d) The Ministry confirmed that a strike was carried out on the Sayed Jamaluddin Afghani University.
Explanation: The Ministry explicitly denied that any strike was carried out on the university, labeling the claims as 'frivolous and fake'. Therefore, is the incorrect statement. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1995552/info-ministry-rubbishes-reports-of-pakistan-targeting-varsity-residential-areas-in-afghanistans-kunar, 27 Apr 2026]
#18664
Which of the following is NOT a stated objective or concern of Iran regarding the regional security framework in 2026?
(a) Promoting external interference to stabilize the region
(b) Reducing US military presence in the Middle East
(c) Ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz
(d) Seeking sustainable political solutions to the conflict
Explanation: Iran explicitly advocates for a regional security framework free of outside interference, making the incorrect statement. The other options accurately reflect Iran's stated diplomatic positions during the 2026 crisis. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1995258/irans-araghchi-visits-pakistan-for-2nd-time-in-two-days-envoy-says-trip-undertaken-to-discuss-regional-developments, 26 Apr 2026]
#18665
Consider the following statements about the monsoon-related disaster response in July 2026: 1. The NDMA forecasted high-level flooding at Marala Headworks on the Chenab River. 2. Power restoration efforts in Peshawar were hindered by the continuation of heavy rainfall. 3. The PDMA reported that no animals perished during the three-day rain period in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. 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 NDMA specifically warned of high-level flooding at Marala Headworks. Statement 2 is correct as Pesco noted that rain hampered restoration efforts. Statement 3 is incorrect because the PDMA report explicitly stated that four animals perished across Upper Dir, Abbottabad, and Buner. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017248/monsoon-rains-kill-12-in-kp-in-past-3-days-nationwide-flood-warning-issued, 21 Jul 2026]
#18666
Consider the following statements about the pre-budget consultations held in June 2026: 1. The federal government aims to present the budget for FY2026-27 on June 10. 2. The PPP delegation expressed reservations regarding the proposed tax measures. 3. The President directed that growth rates should be harmonized with public welfare schemes. 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 official reports of the meeting. The government scheduled the budget presentation for June 10, the PPP raised tax concerns, and the President emphasized the need for welfare-oriented growth. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2006163/in-meeting-with-pm-president-stresses-provincial-rights-economic-stability-in-upcoming-budget, 08 Jun 2026]
#18667
Which of the following statements regarding the US-Iran diplomatic process in April 2026 is INCORRECT?
(a) The first round of talks in Islamabad ended without a formal agreement
(b) The US president confirmed that future talks would be held remotely
(c) The US president expressed respect for Pakistan's mediatory role
(d) The ceasefire brokered by Pakistan was immediately abandoned after the first round of talks
Explanation: The ceasefire brokered by Pakistan was not abandoned; rather, it was extended by the US president until a unified proposal is submitted. Therefore, the statement claiming it was abandoned is incorrect. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1995275/great-respect-for-pakistan-and-they-will-stay-involved-but-we-are-going-to-do-it-by-phone-trump-on-iran-talks, 26 Apr 2026]
#18668
Who announced the lifting of traffic restrictions around Islamabad's Red Zone and the Serena Hotel on April 26, 2026?
(a) The Inspector General of Islamabad Police
(b) The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister
(c) The Commissioner of Rawalpindi Division
(d) None of these
Explanation: Ishaq Dar, serving as the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, officially announced the lifting of the security restrictions. The other officials listed were not the primary spokespersons for this specific policy reversal. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1995277/traffic-restrictions-around-islamabads-red-zone-serena-hotel-lifted-ishaq-dar, 26 Apr 2026]
#18669
Consider the following statements about the legislative and diplomatic context of the 2026 US push against transnational repression: 1. The legislation aims to make transnational repression a specific federal crime for the first time. 2. The bill grants the FBI expanded authority to investigate foreign efforts to suppress dissent on American soil. 3. The legislation is exclusively focused on activities conducted by non-state actors and private intelligence firms. 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 bill targets foreign government-led repression and expands federal investigative powers. Statement 3 is incorrect because the legislation specifically targets efforts by foreign governments, not just non-state actors. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017401/india-scrutiny-fuels-us-push-to-criminalise-foreign-repression, 22 Jul 2026]
#18670
All of the following are cited as areas of concern or policy focus for China in the March 2026 press conference EXCEPT:
(a) Tensions in the South China Sea
(b) Expansion of the BRICS currency
(c) Wars in the Middle East and Ukraine
(d) US-China trade tariffs
Explanation: The press conference specifically addressed trade tariffs, the South China Sea, and the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. The expansion of the BRICS currency was not a primary topic mentioned in the briefing. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1979786/chinese-fm-urges-us-to-manage-differences-in-face-of-trade-woes, 08 Mar 2026]
#18671
Which of the following statements regarding the fuel price adjustments in 2026 is INCORRECT?
(a) The government has been revising petroleum prices on a weekly basis on Friday nights.
(b) The price of petrol and high-speed diesel was increased by Rs26.77 on April 24, 2026.
(c) The government has maintained a consistent fuel price throughout the year without any reductions.
(d) High-speed diesel is used for heavy transport and large generators.
Explanation: The statement that prices remained consistent is false, as the government frequently adjusted prices, including significant reductions in early April 2026. The other options accurately reflect the operational and fiscal realities described. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1994758/govt-hikes-petrol-high-speed-diesel-prices-by-rs26, 24 Apr 2026]
#18672
Consider the following statements about the protests in New Delhi on July 21, 2026: 1. The protests were organized to demand reforms in the national education system. 2. The government engaged in a parliamentary debate regarding the NEET irregularities prior to the protests. 3. Thousands of protesters gathered at the Jantar Mantar site to show support for the CJP movement. 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 and 3 are correct as the protests focused on education reforms and utilized the Jantar Mantar site. Statement 2 is incorrect because opposition leaders specifically criticized the government for refusing to hold a debate on the issue in parliament. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017219/indian-opposition-leader-rahul-gandhi-arrested-outside-pm-modis-delhi-residence-amid-mass-protest, 21 Jul 2026]
#18673
Which minister briefed the President on his recent diplomatic visit to Iran during the June 2026 meeting?
(a) Foreign Minister
(b) Interior Minister
(c) Finance Minister
(d) Defense Minister
Explanation: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi provided the briefing regarding his recent visit to Iran and regional diplomatic engagements. While the Foreign Minister was present at the meeting, the specific briefing on the Iran visit was attributed to the Interior Minister. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2006163/in-meeting-with-pm-president-stresses-provincial-rights-economic-stability-in-upcoming-budget, 08 Jun 2026]
#18674
Consider the following statements about the 2026 FIFA World Cup final: 1. Spain defeated Argentina by a margin of one goal. 2. The match was decided during regulation time. 3. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez attended the event. 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: Spain won 1-0, but the goal was scored in extra time, making statement 2 incorrect. Both the scoreline and the presence of the Prime Minister are factually accurate. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2016966/viva-espana-spain-unites-in-joy-at-second-fifa-world-cup-crown, 20 Jul 2026]
#18675
Which US government entity is tasked with a strengthened role in pursuing cases of transnational repression under the proposed 2026 legislation?
(a) Department of Homeland Security
(b) Central Intelligence Agency
(c) National Security Division of the Justice Department
(d) None of these
Explanation: The bill specifically empowers the US Justice Department’s National Security Division and the Assistant Attorney General for National Security to lead the prosecution of these cases. The CIA is an intelligence agency, not a prosecutorial body. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017401/india-scrutiny-fuels-us-push-to-criminalise-foreign-repression, 22 Jul 2026]
#18676
Who currently serves as the Finance Minister of Pakistan as of June 2026?
(a) Ishaq Dar
(b) Muhammad Aurangzeb
(c) Azam Nazeer Tarar
(d) None of these
Explanation: Muhammad Aurangzeb is the incumbent Finance Minister of Pakistan. Ishaq Dar serves as the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, while Azam Nazeer Tarar is the Law Minister. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2006163/in-meeting-with-pm-president-stresses-provincial-rights-economic-stability-in-upcoming-budget, 08 Jun 2026]
#18677
Which of the following statements regarding the 2026 Iranian leadership's stance is INCORRECT?
(a) The leadership has renounced all legitimate rights to ensure peace.
(b) Tehran does not seek war with the United States and Israel.
(c) Public demonstrations are considered influential in the outcome of negotiations.
(d) Iran intends to demand compensation for damages inflicted during the war.
Explanation: The leadership explicitly stated that they will NOT renounce their legitimate rights under any circumstances. Therefore, the claim that they have renounced these rights is false. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1990308/in-written-message-iran-supreme-leader-says-tehran-does-not-seek-war-but-will-not-renounce-legitimate-rights, 09 Apr 2026]
#18678
The 'Stop Transnational Repression Act of 2026' was introduced in the United States by which of the following pairs of senators?
(a) Adam Schiff and John Curtis
(b) Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell
(c) Bernie Sanders and Ted Cruz
(d) None of these
Explanation: The legislation was sponsored by Democratic Senator Adam Schiff and Republican Senator John Curtis to address foreign government intimidation on US soil. Other pairs listed are prominent political figures but were not the sponsors of this specific bill. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017401/india-scrutiny-fuels-us-push-to-criminalise-foreign-repression, 22 Jul 2026]
#18679
Consider the following statements about the US-Iran peace process as of June 2026: 1. The Strait of Hormuz is expected to officially open upon the signing of the peace deal. 2. The peace deal includes the immediate release of cash funds to Iran upon signing. 3. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cautioned against misinformation campaigns aimed at sabotaging the peace deal. 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 President Trump indicated the strait would open upon signing. Statement 2 is incorrect because Vice President Vance explicitly stated that no cash or funds are being released for simply signing the deal. Statement 3 is correct as the Prime Minister warned against misinformation campaigns. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2007361/peace-has-never-been-this-close-pm-shehbaz-says-text-of-final-us-iran-peace-deal-agreed-upon, 12 Jun 2026]
#18680
Which of the following statements regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup controversies is INCORRECT?
(a) The red card issued to Folarin Balogun was rescinded following political intervention.
(b) Spain won the final match against Argentina by a score of 2-0.
(c) The VAR system faced criticism for a lack of transparency in referee communications.
(d) High ticket prices raised concerns about the accessibility of the tournament for ordinary fans.
Explanation: Spain won the final match 1-0, not 2-0. The other statements accurately reflect the controversies and events described in the tournament report. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2017229/5-questions-that-continue-to-linger-after-the-fifa-world-cup, 21 Jul 2026]