Schools closed due to security concerns

The Punjab government has ordered a two-day closure of all educational institutions across the province citing security concerns, Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat announced Thursday.

All public and private schools, colleges, and universities will remain closed on Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10, with classes resuming Monday, May 12. The decision applies uniformly across Punjab.

The announcement coincided with Pakistan's military reporting it had intercepted 25 drones entering Pakistani airspace. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) identified the aircraft as Israeli-made Harop loitering munitions, which were neutralized over multiple cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi and Karachi.

Military officials stated the drones were engaged using electronic countermeasures and kinetic strikes. Debris recovery operations are ongoing in affected areas.

When asked about potential connections between the school closures and drone incidents, Education Secretary Khalid Nazir Wattoo cited "prevailing security conditions" as the primary reason for the education suspension, without providing specific details.

In a separate briefing, DG ISPR Lt General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry described the drone incursions as a violation of Pakistani airspace, occurring days after reported aerial engagements between Pakistani and Indian forces on May 6-7. The military spokesperson confirmed Pakistan's air defense systems remained on high alert.

Civilian authorities have advised residents to follow official updates regarding both educational schedules and security developments. The National Security Committee is expected to review the situation later today.