Once again, the ugly face of terrorism has resurfaced in Balochistan, with repeated attacks in the Kalat and Zhob regions. This surge in militant activity clearly indicates that terrorists are increasingly targeting innocent civilians and deliberately obstructing the province’s path toward progress and prosperity.
The targeted killings of Punjabis and other civilians have sparked serious concerns about the stance of certain Baloch leaders and politicians who appear to sympathize with militant outfits such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). The bloodshed of innocent people serves no purpose but to breed mistrust and tragedy. It is imperative for Baloch leadership to unequivocally condemn such heinous acts of violence. Now is the time for patriotic Baloch citizens, especially the youth, to rise against those sabotaging development projects aimed at uplifting Balochistan and integrating it with the rest of the country.
The people of Balochistan, especially the youth, must realize that groups like the BLA oppose education, infrastructure, and socio-economic development.
Instead of condemning the murder of innocent civilians, individuals like Hyrbyair Marri, who are responsible for the destruction and destabilization of Balochistan, have launched false propaganda. They attempt to manipulate narratives about alleged killings of Baloch, institutional elitism, and Pakistan’s appointment as President of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). These claims must be seen for what they are: deliberate distortions. The truth is that secessionist figures like Hyrbyair, who cry foul over the killing of Baloch people, are themselves complicit in the massacre of innocent workers and labourers.
Meanwhile, India continues to pursue its longstanding agenda of destabilizing Pakistan through proxy groups like the TTP and BLA, with credible evidence pointing toward state-sponsored terrorism .
Indian funding is being funneled through the Taliban to equip anti-Pakistan militant groups. These terrorist leaders operate openly from Afghan territory, enjoying safe havens and logistical support from Taliban elements. The Afghan government’s weak control, access to advanced weaponry left behind by U.S. forces, and growing collaboration between the TTP and BLA collectively pose a grave, long-term threat to Pakistan.
According to recent statistics, between January and June 2025, Balochistan witnessed 501 terrorist incidents, resulting in 257 fatalities and 492 injuries, a 45% increase in overall attacks and a 100% surge in targeted killings of settlers. India remains a breeding ground for terrorism. It reportedly funded 70 militants through Sarfraz Bangalzai while also manipulating and exploiting Baloch women for subversive activities.
This growing wave of terrorism is not random, it is a carefully orchestrated proxy war, supported and facilitated by hostile intelligence agencies. The threats posed by these terrorist groups extend beyond Pakistan and jeopardize broader regional and global peace. Yet, the international community’s indifference only emboldens India and Afghanistan to continue using terrorism as a tool of state policy. It is important to clarify that Pakistan’s assumption of the UNSC presidency in July 2025 is not a privilege bestowed by others rather it is part of a scheduled alphabetical rotation among member states. The alarming rise in militant violence necessitates a comprehensive and calibrated response to identify, isolate, and dismantle anti-state networks. However, this cannot be achieved through military action alone. It requires public cooperation. The state and Baloch leadership must re-establish meaningful connections with the local populace and prevent anti-state elements from exploiting existing social and political grievances.
Ultimately, this is the most sustainable way to defeat terrorism. The people of Balochistan, especially the youth must realize that groups like the BLA oppose education, infrastructure, and socio-economic development. Supporting them means opposing progress.
The writer is a freelance columnist and contributes regularly on issues concerning national security.