Militants strike Pakistan military base in Balochistan, four soldiers killed: Army

Armed Islamist militants launched an attack on a military base in southern Pakistan on Wednesday.

The militants were equipped with firearms, hand grenades, and rockets. At least four soldiers lost their lives in the assault, according to statements from the army and security officials.

The army reported that five other soldiers sustained critical injuries, and retaliation by the military resulted in the death of at least three militants. Authorities are currently conducting an operation to apprehend the two remaining attackers.

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The army stated that vigilant soldiers on duty successfully thwarted the initial attempt by the terrorists to infiltrate the facility. Subsequently, a fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, leading to the containment of the terrorists within a confined area near the boundary.

Senior government official confirms completion of operation, sweeping continues to root out hidden assailants

According to Saeed Ahmad, a senior government official who spoke to Reuters, a military operation in Balochistan's Zhob district has concluded with the elimination of all five assailants. However, troops are still conducting sweeping operations in nearby areas to ensure the removal of any remaining hidden militants.

The attack occurred in the early hours when several militants stormed a military base, hurling grenades into a military mess before engaging in a prolonged gun battle. The army reported the incident, and three security officials confirmed the sequence of events.

Balochistan, a region known for its mineral resources and situated along the border of Afghanistan and Iran, has long been troubled by an ethnic Baloch insurgency that has persisted for decades.

In addition to the ethnic conflict, Islamist militants seeking to overthrow the Pakistani government and establish their own strict Islamic rule have been active in Balochistan.

Since terminating a ceasefire agreement with the government in late 2022, these militants have escalated their attacks, including the devastating bombing of a mosque in Peshawar in January, claiming the lives of over 100 people.

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The Pakistani government has accused militants of shifting their operational bases to Afghanistan. However, the Taliban government in Kabul denies these allegations. The situation in Balochistan remains a significant concern as security forces continue their efforts to maintain stability and counter the threat of militant activity in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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