Pakistan's Punjab province accounted for 15 of 22 documented threats against journalists in the second quarter of 2026 (April to June), according to a quarterly review released by the Freedom Network, a Pakistani media rights organisation. State actors were identified as the primary source of threats in 68% of cases, with journalists frequently targeted through legal mechanisms such as criminal proceedings under cybercrime and anti-terrorism laws, particularly those reporting on corruption and governance. Overall incidents rose 22% compared to the previous quarter, with physical attacks — including an attempted murder in Vehari district and a serious assault in Bahawalpur — compounding concerns about press freedom across the country.