On Tuesday, Pakistan’s top military officials vowed to maintain their hard-won successes against terrorism following a series of violent attacks in Balochistan.
Last week, militants from the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) conducted numerous assaults across Balochistan, targeting both security forces and civilians.
The violence resulted in at least 50 deaths, including 14 security personnel. Militants attacked police stations, destroyed railway tracks, and set fire to nearly 30 vehicles. In response, security forces eliminated 21 militants.
Among the victims were 23 individuals in Musakhail, predominantly laborers from Punjab, who were killed after being identified.
A press release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir led a Corps Commanders’ Conference at General Headquarters. The meeting addressed national security and strategic responses to emerging threats.
The ISPR report highlighted that the military will not allow terrorism’s hard-earned gains to be undone. The forum focused on countering hostile forces and subversive elements, especially those operating in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
General Munir emphasized the need for a robust legal system and affirmed the army’s commitment to supporting government and law enforcement in taking action against terrorists and criminal networks.
The military also expressed satisfaction with efforts against illegal activities linked to terrorist groups and stressed the importance of stringent cybersecurity measures.
The forum paid tribute to the fallen armed forces members, law enforcement, and civilians who lost their lives in Balochistan and KP.
The military leadership reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and accountability. The army’s rigorous system ensures that no individual is above the law.
Participants also expressed solidarity with Kashmiris and condemned the ongoing violence against Palestinians by Israel.
Terrorist attacks surged to 59 in August 2024, up from 38 in July. The attacks occurred across KP, Balochistan, and Punjab, resulting in 84 deaths and 166 injuries.
Balochistan reported 28 terrorist incidents in August, causing 57 deaths and injuring 84. The BLA was responsible for most attacks, including a major offensive on August 26.
In KP, 29 attacks led to 25 deaths and 80 injuries. Groups such as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and other local militants were involved.
Punjab saw two attacks, injuring two civilians and killing two attackers. Counterterrorism operations in August resulted in the death of 88 militants and the loss of 15 soldiers and three policemen.
The BLA’s recent activities, including high-impact attacks and the use of female suicide bombers, reflect the group’s increasing capabilities. Their tactics, including targeting Punjabis and using sophisticated weaponry, suggest growing operational strength.
The BLA’s approach, framed as defending Baloch interests, exploits grievances and could further strain relations between Balochistan and the central government.
