**Pakistan at a Crossroads: Economy, War, and Eid**
As Pakistan celebrates Eid al-Adha today — Wednesday, May 27 — the festivities are unfolding against a backdrop of both cautious economic optimism and serious geopolitical turbulence. The Pakistani government declared May 26, 27, and 28 as public holidays for Eid ul-Adha, with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee confirming the moon sighting on May 17. Across the country, families are gathering for prayers, qurbani, and celebrations. But the mood this year carries an undercurrent of anxiety. * * A Recovery Under Threat ** Pakistan's economy had been turning a corner. Driven by the IMF reform programme and steady economic recovery, Pakistan's economy was projected to grow by 3.5% in 2026, with the current account posting a surplus for FY25, inflation remaining under control, and external reserves strengthening. That momentum, however, has been severely tested by the war in the Middle East. ** The Shadow of War ** The 2026 Iran war, initiated on February 28 by coordinated US-Isr...