The United Nations Security Council has raised alarm over the growing alliance between outlawed terrorist groups Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), calling it a major security threat for Pakistan. The report specifically highlighted their increasing coordination, referencing the deadly Jaffar Express hijacking in March, which resulted in 31 deaths, including 21 hostages.
The UN report, released by the 1988 Taliban Sanctions Committee, stated that the BLA’s Majeed Brigade showed advanced operational capabilities. It warned that such complex attacks demonstrated a rising trend in both capacity and brutality of the group. Meanwhile, the TTP is said to have around 6,000 fighters and receives significant logistical support from Afghanistan’s de facto authorities.
According to the report, some Taliban officials have suggested distancing from TTP to improve regional ties, but the group continues to operate freely within Afghanistan. The report also revealed that in January 2025, TTP trained militants in Balochistan, further deepening concerns about its expanding operations. Additionally, it maintains limited tactical connections with ISIL-K (Da’esh), increasing its threat level.
ISIL-K, with around 2,000 fighters, remains the most serious international threat, according to the UN. The group has been actively recruiting from Central Asia and the Russian North Caucasus, while also targeting Shia communities and foreigners. ISIL-K has even indoctrinated minors through suicide training camps near the Pakistan border, raising humanitarian and security concerns.
The report also addressed tensions in Indian-Occupied Kashmir, noting the April attack in Pahalgam. While The Resistance Front (TRF) initially claimed responsibility, it later withdrew the claim. The UN did not link the attack to Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), despite some member states insisting on its involvement, while others rejected the connection.
In conclusion, the UNSC report warned that fragile regional relations could be exploited by terrorist groups. It emphasized the urgent need for stronger cross-border cooperation and counter-terrorism efforts to prevent further instability in South Asia and beyond.