Balochistan is facing a seminal moment. Despite all attempts by Pak army chief Asim Munir's forces to crush dissenting voices, the unrest is showing no signs of slowing down.A prominent human rights activist has now declared that Pakistan has lost control over the majority of Balochistan.&nbsp;Mir Yar Baloch, who had proclaimed the independence of Balochistan last year, claimed that rebel forces controlled 85% of the province's territory. He also added that Balochistan had adopted its own national anthem, national flag and currency.This is not all.&nbsp;According to him, the rebels also control Balochistan's gold and copper mines, over 150 gas fields and 1,200 coal mines.&nbsp;Calling upon the world to recognise Balochistan's independence, he asserted that 5,00,000 personnel are ready to throw out Pakistani forces from the province by the end of 2026.&nbsp;This comes at a time when Balochistan remains on the boil.&nbsp;Last week, the Pakistani military revealed that at least 42 persons, most of whom were security personnel, were killed in three attacks by Baloch insurgents.&nbsp;In subsequent operations, Pakistani forces claimed to have killed 121 militants.Earlier, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief and veteran member of parliament Fazlur Rehman also admitted that Pakistan had lost its grip over Balochistan.&nbsp;Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, "In Balochistan and Baloch areas, there were rebellions. The entire Baloch area had slipped out of Pakistan's control. Even today, the Pakistani government has no writ in Balochistan."&nbsp;While Balochistan's quest for freedom dates back to the inception of Pakistan, Islamabad has intensified its crackdown in the last few decades.&nbsp;The killing of Nawab Akbar Bugti, a former chief minister and governor, in 2006 further fueled the uprising against the Pakistani state.&nbsp;Enforced disappearances of Baloch people have become an international issue.Dr. Mahrang Baloch, who was at the forefront of raising such issues, was recently sentenced to life imprisonment.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/setback-for-munir-as-rebels-claim-control-over-85-of-balochistan-1784051805802/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/setback-for-munir-as-rebels-claim-control-over-85-of-balochistan-1784051805802/embed</a>&nbsp;

This provoked global outrage, with UN human rights experts dubbing this a "travesty of justice" and an attempt to suppress peaceful protests.&nbsp;This year itself, Balochistan witnessed 334 incidents of killing.&nbsp;According to the South Asia Terrorism Portal, 288 civilians and 520 security personnel have lost their lives. On the other hand, over 570 militants have been killed.&nbsp;Now, Pakistan has long struggled to contain the activities of the Baloch rebels, who are seeking independence for Balochistan from the country.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-withdraws-20-hormuz-transit-fee-announces-full-blockade-on-iran-1784043804696">Trump withdraws 20% Hormuz transit fee, announces full blockade on Iran</a>&nbsp;In May, over 30 people were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden car into a train in Quetta, which was carrying Pakistani security personnel and their families.In January this year, the Baloch Liberation Army or BLA launched Operation Hereof by launching simultaneous attacks in 10 cities, including Quetta, and claimed to have killed two hundred and twenty security personnel.&nbsp;A month later, it claimed to have captured 17 Pakistani soldiers and executed seven of them.&nbsp;The biggest blow to Munir's forces came last year though, when BLA hijacked the passenger train Jaffar Express going from Quetta to Peshawar.&nbsp;Back then, it reportedly took two hundred and fourteen people, including military personnel, hostage for close to thirty hours.&nbsp;While the authorities highlighted that 18 soldiers and paramilitary personnel were killed and over 340 passengers were freed, BLA said that its fighters executed all hostages, as Pakistan didn't agree to a prisoner exchange.&nbsp;Meanwhile, as Munir's forces continue its crackdown on peaceful protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, India urged the international community to hold Pakistan fully accountable for its egregious abuses and misdeeds.&nbsp;MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "The ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir are a direct consequence of Pakistan's decades-long systemic exploitation, denial of fundamental rights and administrative operation in areas under its illegal and forcible occupation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rather than addressing the legitimate grievances of the local population, the Pakistani state has responded with excessive police brutality."&nbsp;Even as turbulence is growing in Balochistan and PoK, Munir's actions so far suggest that there is little likelihood of any change in its approach towards upholding the democratic rights of people.

India urged the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for its actions in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, accusing it of suppressing legitimate public protests through excessive force.

Balochistan is facing a seminal moment. Despite all attempts by Pak army chief Asim Munir's forces to crush dissenting voices, the unrest is showing no signs of slowing down. A prominent human rights activist has now declared that Pakistan has lost control over the majority of Balochistan. Mir Yar Baloch, who had proclaimed the independence of Balochistan last year, claimed that rebel forces controlled 85% of the province's territory. He also added that Balochistan had adopted its own national anthem, national flag and currency. This is not all. According to him, the rebels also control Balochistan's gold and copper mines, over 150 gas fields and 1,200 coal mines. Calling upon the world to recognise Balochistan's independence, he asserted that 5,00,000 personnel are ready to throw out Pakistani forces from the province by the end of 2026. This comes at a time when Balochistan remains on the boil. Last week, the Pakistani military revealed that at least 42 persons, most of whom were security personnel, were killed in three attacks by Baloch insurgents. In subsequent operations, Pakistani forces claimed to have killed 121 militants. Earlier, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief and veteran member of parliament Fazlur Rehman also admitted that Pakistan had lost its grip over Balochistan. Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, "In Balochistan and Baloch areas, there were rebellions. The entire Baloch area had slipped out of Pakistan's control. Even today, the Pakistani government has no writ in Balochistan." While Balochistan's quest for freedom dates back to the inception of Pakistan, Islamabad has intensified its crackdown in the last few decades. The killing of Nawab Akbar Bugti, a former chief minister and governor, in 2006 further fueled the uprising against the Pakistani state. Enforced disappearances of Baloch people have become an international issue. Dr. Mahrang Baloch, who was at the forefront of raising such issues, was recently sentenced to life imprisonment. https://www.wionews.com/videos/setback-for-munir-as-rebels-claim-control-over-85-of-balochistan-1784051805802/embed

India urged the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for its actions in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, accusing it of suppressing legitimate public protests through excessive force.

Activist claims rebels control 85% of Balochistan, fresh setback for Pakistan

The clashes between Pakistan army and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) which has seen several casualties on both sides in the last one week has prompted Pakistan to think of deploying large numbers of troops in the region. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday said that the province's vast geography, serious security situation and recent surge in attacks requires more force in the region.&nbsp;Asif remarks came amid security forces killing 177 militants after the BLA launched simultaneous attacks at 12 locations in the volatile province.&nbsp;"Balochistan constitutes over 40 per cent of Pakistan geographically...To control it is much more difficult than a populated city, and it needs deployment of massive forces. Our troops are deployed there and are in action against them (terrorists), but they are physically handicapped by guarding and patrolling such a big area," said Asif while addressing the National Assembly.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-willing-to-be-flexible-could-shut-parts-of-nuclear-programme-to-ease-tension-with-us-report-1770092737217">Iran willing to be flexible, could shut parts of nuclear programme to ease tension with US: Report</a>&nbsp;He also pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers.&nbsp;"In Balochistan, tribal elders, the bureaucracy and those running separatist movements have formed a nexus," he said.&nbsp;He further said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating terrorism and would not allow violence to "dress it up as a freedom movement".&nbsp;"When you try to rationalise violence or dress it up as a freedom movement, it is not acceptable because it is not true. This is a cover to legitimise criminal activities," said Asif.&nbsp;Pakistan has repeatedly accused India and Afghanistan of backing the assailants, alleging that senior BLA leaders were operating from Afghan territory. Both New Delhi and Kabul deny the claims.

Asif pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers.

The clashes between Pakistan army and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) which has seen several casualties on both sides in the last one week has prompted Pakistan to think of deploying large numbers of troops in the region. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday said that the province's vast geography, serious security situation and recent surge in attacks requires more force in the region. Asif remarks came amid security forces killing 177 militants after the BLA launched simultaneous attacks at 12 locations in the volatile province. "Balochistan constitutes over 40 per cent of Pakistan geographically...To control it is much more difficult than a populated city, and it needs deployment of massive forces. Our troops are deployed there and are in action against them (terrorists), but they are physically handicapped by guarding and patrolling such a big area," said Asif while addressing the National Assembly. ALSO READ: Iran willing to be flexible, could shut parts of nuclear programme to ease tension with US: Report He also pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers. "In Balochistan, tribal elders, the bureaucracy and those running separatist movements have formed a nexus," he said. He further said that Pakistan was committed to eliminating terrorism and would not allow violence to "dress it up as a freedom movement". "When you try to rationalise violence or dress it up as a freedom movement, it is not acceptable because it is not true. This is a cover to legitimise criminal activities," said Asif. Pakistan has repeatedly accused India and Afghanistan of backing the assailants, alleging that senior BLA leaders were operating from Afghan territory. Both New Delhi and Kabul deny the claims.

Asif pointed towards the nexus between criminals and terrorists, and said that criminal gangs were being backed by Baloch Liberation Army - banned in Pakistan - which harbours and protects smugglers.

'More troops needed in Balochistan amid serious security situation': Pakistan Defence Minister

Just a day after coordinated suicide bombings and gun assaults in Balochistan killed 33 people, most of them civilians, Pakistan’s long-running insurgency in the region has taken a striking new turn. After coordinated, high-intensity attacks across multiple districts, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has now pushed two women to the centre of its public narrative: Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch. With this, there's a shift in how the group is framing its campaign, blending armed violence with symbolism and identity. This comes as Pakistani officials and security forces claimed to have killed 145 ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ militants in less than two days during sweeping counterterrorism raids across Balochistan.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-fitna-al-hindustan-pakistan-claims-killed-145-indian-backed-terrorists-but-offers-no-proof-1770005668700">Pakistan claims killed 145 ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ terrorists, accuses India without offering proof&nbsp;</a><h2>Who is Asifa Mengal? The face of the latest attacks</h2>Asifa Mengal, 24, has been identified by the BLA as one of the female attackers involved in the latest wave of violence. The group claims she was from the Nushki district and the daughter of Mohammad Ismail.Born in October 2002, Asifa reportedly joined the BLA’s elite Majeed Brigade after turning 21. According to the group’s own account, she volunteered last year to become a “fidayee”, committing herself to a suicide mission.The BLA claims Asifa played a key role in the attack on an Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) facility in Nushki. Photographs released by the group show her in militant attire, widely interpreted as an attempt to elevate her into a symbol of resistance.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-uk-ambassador-to-us-peter-mandelson-quits-labour-party-after-compromising-undies-pic-from-epstein-files-goes-viral-1769998928340">Ex-UK envoy seen in compromising undies pic in Epstein files, quits Labour Party</a><h2>Hawa Baloch and the Gwadar front</h2>Alongside Asifa, another woman known as Hawa Baloch, alias Droshum, has emerged as a prominent figure in BLA propaganda. The group claims that she was also a member of the Majeed Brigade and reportedly fought in the Gwadar front during what the group calls Operation Hero Phase II. The BLA has compared her symbolic role to that of Mahsa Amini in Iran, presenting her not just as a fighter but as an ideological figure.Reports circulated by the group suggest she was a writer before joining the armed movement. Her father had previously been involved in the Baloch struggle and was killed in combat years ago. The BLA claims Hawa took part in prolonged clashes near Gwadar, a strategic hub of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Her death has been portrayed as “martyrdom”, with the group insisting the mission was a strategic success despite heavy losses.<h2>Why is BLA pushing women fighters to the forefront?</h2>By placing women in frontline roles, the BLA is breaking with traditional norms of militancy in the region. Analysts say this is a calculated move aimed at increasing psychological pressure on the state and drawing international attention.In videos released by the group, one of the women accuses Pakistan of targeting Baloch families, framing the violence as retaliation rather than aggression. The messaging suggests the BLA is trying to reshape its image from a regional insurgency into a broader ideological movement.

After deadly attacks in Balochistan, the BLA has put two women, Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch, at the centre of its propaganda. Who are they? All we know about them.

Just a day after coordinated suicide bombings and gun assaults in Balochistan killed 33 people, most of them civilians, Pakistan’s long-running insurgency in the region has taken a striking new turn. After coordinated, high-intensity attacks across multiple districts, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has now pushed two women to the centre of its public narrative: Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch. With this, there's a shift in how the group is framing its campaign, blending armed violence with symbolism and identity. This comes as Pakistani officials and security forces claimed to have killed 145 ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ militants in less than two days during sweeping counterterrorism raids across Balochistan. Also read | Pakistan claims killed 145 ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ terrorists, accuses India without offering proof Who is Asifa Mengal? The face of the latest attacks Asifa Mengal, 24, has been identified by the BLA as one of the female attackers involved in the latest wave of violence. The group claims she was from the Nushki district and the daughter of Mohammad Ismail. Born in October 2002, Asifa reportedly joined the BLA’s elite Majeed Brigade after turning 21. According to the group’s own account, she volunteered last year to become a “fidayee”, committing herself to a suicide mission. The BLA claims Asifa played a key role in the attack on an Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) facility in Nushki. Photographs released by the group show her in militant attire, widely interpreted as an attempt to elevate her into a symbol of resistance. Also read | Ex-UK envoy seen in compromising undies pic in Epstein files, quits Labour Party Hawa Baloch and the Gwadar front Alongside Asifa, another woman known as Hawa Baloch, alias Droshum, has emerged as a prominent figure in BLA propaganda. The group claims that she was also a member of the Majeed Brigade and reportedly fought in the Gwadar front during what the group calls Operation Hero Phase II. The BLA has compared her symbolic role to that of Mahsa Amini in Iran, presenting her not just as a fighter but as an ideological figure. Reports circulated by the group suggest she was a writer before joining the armed movement. Her father had previously been involved in the Baloch struggle and was killed in combat years ago. The BLA claims Hawa took part in prolonged clashes near Gwadar, a strategic hub of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Her death has been portrayed as “martyrdom”, with the group insisting the mission was a strategic success despite heavy losses. Why is BLA pushing women fighters to the forefront? By placing women in frontline roles, the BLA is breaking with traditional norms of militancy in the region. Analysts say this is a calculated move aimed at increasing psychological pressure on the state and drawing international attention. In videos released by the group, one of the women accuses Pakistan of targeting Baloch families, framing the violence as retaliation rather than aggression. The messaging suggests the BLA is trying to reshape its image from a regional insurgency into a broader ideological movement.

After deadly attacks in Balochistan, the BLA has put two women, Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch, at the centre of its propaganda. Who are they? All we know about them.

Pakistan's insurgency takes a shocking turn as BLA unveils women attackers; Who are Asifa Mengal and Hawa Baloch?

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) said on Saturday (Jan 31) that it has launched coordinated attacks at 48 different locations across 14 cities in Pakistan's Balochistan province, including its provincial capital Quetta, under the second phase of Operation Herof. The group claimed that its fighters carried out strikes in Quetta, Noshki, Mastung, Dalbandin, Kalat, Kharan, Panjgur, Gwadar, Pasni, Turbat, Tump, Buleda, Manguchar, Lasbela, Kech, and Awaran, targeting Pakistan’s military and administrative structure while inflicting heavy losses and pushing the Army back in several locations.&nbsp;The BLA claimed it has killed 84 personnel from Pakistani security forces and captured 18 who are currently in its custody.&nbsp;&nbsp;"During this operation, a total of 84 occupying Pakistani army personnel, police, intelligence agencies, and CTD personnel were neutralised, dozens were wounded, and 18 personnel were captured alive and are currently in BLA custody," said Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the BLA, in a statement.&nbsp;The separatist organisation also stated that it took control of and destroyed more than 30 government properties, such as banks, government offices, and prisons, and set 23 vehicles on fire, forcing Pakistan to adopt a defensive posture.&nbsp;"During the operation, more than 30 government properties were taken under control and destroyed, including banks, government offices and prisons. In addition, more than 23 enemy vehicles were set on fire. Due to direct pressure on administrative structures in multiple cities, the enemy’s routine operations and decision-making processes have been paralysed, while in urban areas, enemy army and police forces were forced to retreat," the statement added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-nuclear-technology-cannot-be-eliminated-iran-warns-us-israel-against-attack-1769853760445">‘Nuclear technology cannot be eliminated’: Iran warns US, Israel against attack</a>Giving details on Operation Herof 2.0, the BLA said it deployed multiple units—including the Fateh Squad, the Majeed Brigade, the intelligence wing “ZIRAB,” and STOS—and revealed that seven of its personnel were killed during the action.“During these operations, seven BLA freedom fighters were martyred, including four Fidayeen of BLA’s elite unit Majeed Brigade after entering enemy camps and targeting enemy forces.”&nbsp;On the other hand, Pakistani authorities claimed they had killed 108 militants across Balochistan over the past 48 hours, including 47 on Saturday. Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that 10 security officers were killed, while Shahid Rind, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government, said most of the attacks were foiled.

Pakistani authorities claimed they had killed 108 militants across Balochistan over the past 48 hours, including 47 on Saturday.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) said on Saturday (Jan 31) that it has launched coordinated attacks at 48 different locations across 14 cities in Pakistan's Balochistan province, including its provincial capital Quetta, under the second phase of Operation Herof. The group claimed that its fighters carried out strikes in Quetta, Noshki, Mastung, Dalbandin, Kalat, Kharan, Panjgur, Gwadar, Pasni, Turbat, Tump, Buleda, Manguchar, Lasbela, Kech, and Awaran, targeting Pakistan’s military and administrative structure while inflicting heavy losses and pushing the Army back in several locations. The BLA claimed it has killed 84 personnel from Pakistani security forces and captured 18 who are currently in its custody. "During this operation, a total of 84 occupying Pakistani army personnel, police, intelligence agencies, and CTD personnel were neutralised, dozens were wounded, and 18 personnel were captured alive and are currently in BLA custody," said Jeeyand Baloch, spokesperson for the BLA, in a statement. The separatist organisation also stated that it took control of and destroyed more than 30 government properties, such as banks, government offices, and prisons, and set 23 vehicles on fire, forcing Pakistan to adopt a defensive posture. "During the operation, more than 30 government properties were taken under control and destroyed, including banks, government offices and prisons. In addition, more than 23 enemy vehicles were set on fire. Due to direct pressure on administrative structures in multiple cities, the enemy’s routine operations and decision-making processes have been paralysed, while in urban areas, enemy army and police forces were forced to retreat," the statement added. Also Read: ‘Nuclear technology cannot be eliminated’: Iran warns US, Israel against attack Giving details on Operation Herof 2.0, the BLA said it deployed multiple units—including the Fateh Squad, the Majeed Brigade, the intelligence wing “ZIRAB,” and STOS—and revealed that seven of its personnel were killed during the action. “During these operations, seven BLA freedom fighters were martyred, including four Fidayeen of BLA’s elite unit Majeed Brigade after entering enemy camps and targeting enemy forces.” On the other hand, Pakistani authorities claimed they had killed 108 militants across Balochistan over the past 48 hours, including 47 on Saturday. Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that 10 security officers were killed, while Shahid Rind, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government, said most of the attacks were foiled.

Pakistani authorities claimed they had killed 108 militants across Balochistan over the past 48 hours, including 47 on Saturday.

84 Pakistani security personnel killed in Operation Herof 2.0, BLA claims

The United States has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), along with its militant wing, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO). The decision was announced by the US State Department on Monday (Aug 11). The decision coincided with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's visit to the US. Notably, this was Munir's second visit to the US in two months. Experts have also said that America's move might also be to “get back” at India, and also in a way a support to Pakistan's long-standing accusation that New Delhi funds Baloch insurgency. This designation comes in addition to the BLA's status as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) organisation, which it has held since 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the SDGT status primarily restricted financial support, the new FTO designation makes it a criminal offence for anyone in the United States to offer any kind of support—logistical, material, or financial—to the group. According to the US State Department, the designations have been made under Section 219 of the US Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224. They will take effect once published in the Federal Register. But what is BLA and the Majeed Brigade, and why is Pakistan rattled by it?<h2>What is the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)?</h2>The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a Pakistan-based armed separatist group that seeks full independence for the Baloch people. It emerged in the early 2000s, fueled by long-standing grievances over political marginalisation, economic exploitation, and military repression by the Pakistani state. The BLA is known for orchestrating violent attacks targeting Pakistani security forces, government infrastructure, and projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The group is opposed to Chinese investment in the region, seeing it as exploitative and a threat to Baloch sovereignty. The Majeed Brigade is an elite unit within the BLA, known for carrying out suicide missions and highly coordinated urban assaults. It has been involved in several attacks claimed by the BLA and is now included in the US designation as part of the terrorist group.&nbsp;While designating the BLA as a terror organisation, the US State Department noted that it was responsible for suicide attacks near Karachi airport and the Gwadar Port Authority Complex in 2024. It further added that in March 2025, the group hijacked the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express from Quetta, killing 31 civilians and security personnel and taking over 300 passengers as hostages. Pakistan has accused BLA of terrorist activities, and the US designation is seen as support from America that strengthens their claim.

<h3>Why is the BLA considered a terrorist group?</h3>Balochistan has witnessed at least five separatist uprisings since Pakistan’s independence in 1947. The most recent wave began in the early 2000s, expanding its goals from merely securing a share of local resources to seeking full independence from Pakistan.Supporters of the movement argue that the Pakistani government exploits Balochistan’s wealth, leaving the local population impoverished and politically marginalised. While the BLA frames its struggle as a freedom movement for Balochistan's independence, both Pakistan and multiple Western nations consider it a terrorist organisation due to its use of violence, including suicide bombings and civilian casualties. The group’s increasing attacks against infrastructure projects and civilian transport systems have escalated its profile globally. The US now views the BLA as a direct threat to regional stability, particularly in the context of strategic trade routes. &nbsp;<h2>Where is Balochistan?</h2>Balochistan is the largest but least populous and poorest province in Pakistan, covering nearly 44% of the country’s land area. It lies in the southwestern part of Pakistan and shares borders with Iran to the west, Afghanistan to the northwest, Sindh province to the southeast and the Arabian Sea to the south. The province is rich in natural resources such as gas, coal, and minerals, but has remained underdeveloped, fueling deep resentment among its estimated 15 million residents. Despite being rich in natural resources like gas, minerals, and coastal assets, Balochistan remains among Pakistan’s poorest and most underdeveloped regions. The BLA opposes the extraction of these resources without local benefit and condemns the Pakistani government's denial of Baloch rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;Quetta, the capital and largest city of Balochistan, is strategically located near the Afghan and Iranian borders. With a population of over 1.5 million as of 2024, it is the tenth largest city in Pakistan and a key political and military hub in the region. Moreover, Balochistan is strategically important, not only to Pakistan but also to other countries as it hosts Gwadar Port, a cornerstone of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It serves as a strategic route linking southwestern China to the Arabian Sea. It is central to regional trade and security dynamics involving Pakistan, China, Iran, and Afghanistan.

The United States has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its militant wing, the Majeed Brigade, as a terrorist organisation. This comes amid Asim Munir's visit to the US. Why is BLA termed a terrorist organisation?

The United States has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), along with its militant wing, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO). The decision was announced by the US State Department on Monday (Aug 11). The decision coincided with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's visit to the US. Notably, this was Munir's second visit to the US in two months. Experts have also said that America's move might also be to “get back” at India, and also in a way a support to Pakistan's long-standing accusation that New Delhi funds Baloch insurgency. This designation comes in addition to the BLA's status as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) organisation, which it has held since 2019. While the SDGT status primarily restricted financial support, the new FTO designation makes it a criminal offence for anyone in the United States to offer any kind of support—logistical, material, or financial—to the group. According to the US State Department, the designations have been made under Section 219 of the US Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224. They will take effect once published in the Federal Register. But what is BLA and the Majeed Brigade, and why is Pakistan rattled by it? What is the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)? The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a Pakistan-based armed separatist group that seeks full independence for the Baloch people. It emerged in the early 2000s, fueled by long-standing grievances over political marginalisation, economic exploitation, and military repression by the Pakistani state. The BLA is known for orchestrating violent attacks targeting Pakistani security forces, government infrastructure, and projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The group is opposed to Chinese investment in the region, seeing it as exploitative and a threat to Baloch sovereignty. The Majeed Brigade is an elite unit within the BLA, known for carrying out suicide missions and highly coordinated urban assaults. It has been involved in several attacks claimed by the BLA and is now included in the US designation as part of the terrorist group. While designating the BLA as a terror organisation, the US State Department noted that it was responsible for suicide attacks near Karachi airport and the Gwadar Port Authority Complex in 2024. It further added that in March 2025, the group hijacked the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express from Quetta, killing 31 civilians and security personnel and taking over 300 passengers as hostages. Pakistan has accused BLA of terrorist activities, and the US designation is seen as support from America that strengthens their claim.

The United States has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its militant wing, the Majeed Brigade, as a terrorist organisation. This comes amid Asim Munir's visit to the US. Why is BLA termed a terrorist organisation?

What is BLA and its Majeed Brigade - designated 'foreign terrorist groups' by US - and what's its connection with Pakistan

The United States has formally designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its faction, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO). The State Department also listed the Majeed Brigade as an alias under the BLA’s existing Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) status. The BLA was first designated as an SDGT in 2019 after a series of deadly attacks.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-takes-two-to-tango-trump-says-he-ll-know-in-two-minutes-if-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-with-putin-is-possible-1754930345060">‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible</a><h2>Attacks linked to BLA and Majeed Brigade</h2>US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the group had continued its militant activities since 2019, including through the Majeed Brigade. He pointed to suicide bombings near Karachi airport and at the Gwadar Port Authority Complex in 2024. More recently, in March 2025, the group claimed responsibility for hijacking the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express from Quetta. The attack left 31 civilians and security personnel dead, with over 300 passengers taken hostage.<h2>Part of Trump administration’s counter-terrorism push</h2>Rubio said the move reflects the Trump administration’s “commitment to countering terrorism” and stressed that designations are an important tool to restrict support for extremist groups. “Today’s actions are taken pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended, and Executive Order 13224, as amended. FTO designations go into effect upon publication in the Federal Register,” the statement read.<h2>Long-running insurgency in Balochistan</h2>The BLA, listed as a terrorist organisation by both the US and Pakistan, has been waging a decades-long insurgency against Islamabad. It demands independence for Balochistan, a resource-rich province in Pakistan’s southwest. The group accuses the Pakistani government of exploiting the region’s oil and mineral wealth while leaving the ethnic Baloch population to face poverty and discrimination.<h2>US targets other Pakistan-based groups</h2>The announcement follows a similar action last month against The Resistance Front (TRF), which Washington described as a “front and proxy” of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation based in Pakistan. The TRF had claimed responsibility for the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack in India. It has now been added to both the FTO and SDGT lists.

The US designated the Balochistan Liberation Army and its Majeed Brigade faction as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation due to continued attacks, including bombings and a deadly train hijacking in 2025.

The United States has formally designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its faction, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO). The State Department also listed the Majeed Brigade as an alias under the BLA’s existing Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) status. The BLA was first designated as an SDGT in 2019 after a series of deadly attacks. Also read: ‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible Attacks linked to BLA and Majeed Brigade US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the group had continued its militant activities since 2019, including through the Majeed Brigade. He pointed to suicide bombings near Karachi airport and at the Gwadar Port Authority Complex in 2024. More recently, in March 2025, the group claimed responsibility for hijacking the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express from Quetta. The attack left 31 civilians and security personnel dead, with over 300 passengers taken hostage. Part of Trump administration’s counter-terrorism push Rubio said the move reflects the Trump administration’s “commitment to countering terrorism” and stressed that designations are an important tool to restrict support for extremist groups. “Today’s actions are taken pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended, and Executive Order 13224, as amended. FTO designations go into effect upon publication in the Federal Register,” the statement read. Long-running insurgency in Balochistan The BLA, listed as a terrorist organisation by both the US and Pakistan, has been waging a decades-long insurgency against Islamabad. It demands independence for Balochistan, a resource-rich province in Pakistan’s southwest. The group accuses the Pakistani government of exploiting the region’s oil and mineral wealth while leaving the ethnic Baloch population to face poverty and discrimination. US targets other Pakistan-based groups The announcement follows a similar action last month against The Resistance Front (TRF), which Washington described as a “front and proxy” of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a UN-designated terrorist organisation based in Pakistan. The TRF had claimed responsibility for the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack in India. It has now been added to both the FTO and SDGT lists.

The US designated the Balochistan Liberation Army and its Majeed Brigade faction as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation due to continued attacks, including bombings and a deadly train hijacking in 2025.

'Commitment to countering terrorism': US designates Balochistan Liberation Army, alias Majeed Brigade as Foreign Terrorist Organisation

Two months after the hijacking of Jaffar Express, the Baloch Liberation Army has released a 35-minute video of the hijacking documenting its operation and puncturing Pakistan's claim that the attack was &nbsp;indiscriminate and brutal. The video by BLA's media wing Hakkal showed scenes of women, children, and the elderly being safely escorted away from the hijack site, contradicting narratives from Pakistan's military. Jaffar Express was attacked in March this year at Bolan Pass in southwest Balochistan with 451 passengers.&nbsp;&nbsp;WION could not independently verify the authenticity of the video.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-faces-growing-food-crisis-11-million-at-hunger-risk-2-1-million-children-malnourished-1747664004227">Pakistan faces growing food crisis: 11 million at hunger risk, 2.1 million children malnourished</a>&nbsp;The operation was codenamed "Darra-e-Bolan 2.0 and was executed by the BLA's Majeed Brigade, and it lasted for nearly 48 hours. The footage reveals BLA fighters executing what appears to be a coordinated operation onboard the train.&nbsp;The footage also punctures the Pakistani narrative that the BLA faced heavy losses. The group showcased names, photographs, and farewell messages from the Majeed Brigade, indicating minimal casualties and asserting the strength of their operation.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-us-extradited-tahawwur-rana-pak-should-hand-over-hafiz-saeed-lakhvi-indian-envoy-1747659731216">‘US extradited Tahawwur Rana, Pak should hand over Hafiz Saeed, Lakhvi’: Indian envoy</a>&nbsp;Delivering a statement in the video, a BLA fighter said, "Our struggle and war has come to a point where we are to take such critical decisions. Our young people are equipped to take such steps, for they are aware that except such decisions there are no other options left. A gun is needed to halt the gun. The sound that comes out of a gunshot may reach a point," he says.&nbsp;The man echoed the sacrifice and resolve behind the operation, adding: “Baloch young men have taken the decision today to attack the enemy without any hesitation and care about their lives.” The Pakistan authorities had in March said that they had neutralised all 33 Baloch militants who hijacked the train. The Pakistani administration also said that 31 soldiers and civilians were killed in the attack. However, the BLA claimed that all 214 Pakistani military hostages were killed. The insurgent group, fighting the Pakistani State to gain independence for Balochistan, had demanded the government to release its jailed members as a key demand to release the hostages.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two months after the hijacking of Jaffar Express, the Baloch Liberation Army has released a 35-minute video of the hijacking documenting its operation and puncturing Pakistan's claim

Two months after the hijacking of Jaffar Express, the Baloch Liberation Army has released a 35-minute video of the hijacking documenting its operation and puncturing Pakistan's claim that the attack was indiscriminate and brutal. The video by BLA's media wing Hakkal showed scenes of women, children, and the elderly being safely escorted away from the hijack site, contradicting narratives from Pakistan's military. Jaffar Express was attacked in March this year at Bolan Pass in southwest Balochistan with 451 passengers. WION could not independently verify the authenticity of the video. Read More | Pakistan faces growing food crisis: 11 million at hunger risk, 2.1 million children malnourished The operation was codenamed "Darra-e-Bolan 2.0 and was executed by the BLA's Majeed Brigade, and it lasted for nearly 48 hours. The footage reveals BLA fighters executing what appears to be a coordinated operation onboard the train. The footage also punctures the Pakistani narrative that the BLA faced heavy losses. The group showcased names, photographs, and farewell messages from the Majeed Brigade, indicating minimal casualties and asserting the strength of their operation. Read More | ‘US extradited Tahawwur Rana, Pak should hand over Hafiz Saeed, Lakhvi’: Indian envoy Delivering a statement in the video, a BLA fighter said, "Our struggle and war has come to a point where we are to take such critical decisions. Our young people are equipped to take such steps, for they are aware that except such decisions there are no other options left. A gun is needed to halt the gun. The sound that comes out of a gunshot may reach a point," he says. The man echoed the sacrifice and resolve behind the operation, adding: “Baloch young men have taken the decision today to attack the enemy without any hesitation and care about their lives.” The Pakistan authorities had in March said that they had neutralised all 33 Baloch militants who hijacked the train. The Pakistani administration also said that 31 soldiers and civilians were killed in the attack. However, the BLA claimed that all 214 Pakistani military hostages were killed. The insurgent group, fighting the Pakistani State to gain independence for Balochistan, had demanded the government to release its jailed members as a key demand to release the hostages.

Two months after the hijacking of Jaffar Express, the Baloch Liberation Army has released a 35-minute video of the hijacking documenting its operation and puncturing Pakistan's claim

Safe passage to women, children: Baloch Liberation Army releases video of Jaffar Express hijack, punctures Pakistan's claims

Balochistan Liberation Army launches coordinated attacks. BLA vandalise, and take over check posts in Khuzdar district. Watch this report for more details!

Balochistan Liberation Army captures civilian installations, gunfight with para forces underway

Separatists fired on a paramilitary border post in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province, killing seven soldiers, local authorities said Saturday, a week after the same militant group killed 26 people at a railway station.

"Around 40 to 50 armed terrorists attacked a border post manned by the Frontier Corps Balochistan in Kalat district, killing seven soldiers and wounding 15 others," a local official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"The exchange of fire lasted several hours," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/14-dead-in-pakistan-wedding-bus-crash-bride-only-survivor-say-rescuers-775748">Also read:&nbsp;At least 14 dead in Pakistan wedding bus crash, bride only survivor, say rescuers</a>

A local civilian administrative officer confirmed the number of casualties, adding that the wounded were "airlifted from this remote area to (provincial capital) Quetta for medical treatment".

Jeeyand Baloch, a spokesman for the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) separatist group, claimed responsibility for the attack without giving further details.

The BLA frequently claims deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces, notably Punjabis.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Army Kills 12 Terrorists in Two Operations

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Militants have targeted energy projects with foreign financing –&nbsp;most notably from China –&nbsp;accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the "terrorist attack" in a post on X on Saturday, promising that "immediate action will be taken against the perpetrators".

The latest attack comes a week after the BLA killed 26 people, including 14 soldiers, at a railway station in Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran.

The BLA said the earlier attack "was carried out on a Pakistani army unit at Quetta railway station... after completing a course at the Infantry School."

In August, the BLA claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks by dozens of assailants who killed at least 39 people, one of the highest tolls to hit the region.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Separatists fired on a paramilitary border post in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province, killing seven soldiers, local authorities said Saturday, a week after the same militant group killed 26 people at a railway station.

Separatists fired on a paramilitary border post in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province, killing seven soldiers, local authorities said Saturday, a week after the same militant group killed 26 people at a railway station. "Around 40 to 50 armed terrorists attacked a border post manned by the Frontier Corps Balochistan in Kalat district, killing seven soldiers and wounding 15 others," a local official told AFP on condition of anonymity. "The exchange of fire lasted several hours," he added. Also read: At least 14 dead in Pakistan wedding bus crash, bride only survivor, say rescuers A local civilian administrative officer confirmed the number of casualties, adding that the wounded were "airlifted from this remote area to (provincial capital) Quetta for medical treatment". Jeeyand Baloch, a spokesman for the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) separatist group, claimed responsibility for the attack without giving further details. The BLA frequently claims deadly attacks against security forces or Pakistanis from other provinces, notably Punjabis. Watch | Pakistan: Army Kills 12 Terrorists in Two Operations × Militants have targeted energy projects with foreign financing – most notably from China – accusing outsiders of exploiting the resource-rich region while excluding residents in the poorest part of the country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the "terrorist attack" in a post on X on Saturday, promising that "immediate action will be taken against the perpetrators". The latest attack comes a week after the BLA killed 26 people, including 14 soldiers, at a railway station in Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran. The BLA said the earlier attack "was carried out on a Pakistani army unit at Quetta railway station... after completing a course at the Infantry School." In August, the BLA claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks by dozens of assailants who killed at least 39 people, one of the highest tolls to hit the region. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pakistan separatists kill seven soldiers at border post in Balochistan

Pakistan's second-largest naval air station, the PNS Siddique in Turbat, came under attack on Tuesday (Mar 26). The Majeed Brigade of the Balochistan Liberation Army, a proscribed separatist militant organisation based in Afghanistan, has claimed responsibility for the heavy attack that was marked by intense gunfire and multiple explosions.

<h2>What we know so far</h2>

As per the Balochistan Post, the Majeed Brigade claimed in an email to journalists&nbsp;that its fighters had entered the airbase.&nbsp;

Following the attack, the District Health Officer of Kech has imposed an emergency at the Teaching Hospital in Turbat. All medical staff, including doctors, have been ordered to report immediately to manage the anticipated casualties from the assault.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-bid-for-non-permanent-unsc-seat-for-2025-26-703581">Pakistan launches bid for non-permanent UNSC seat for 2025-26</a>

In a recent statement to the media, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed&nbsp;it has killed&nbsp;"over a dozen" Pakistani personnel, with its assault on PNS Siddique in Turbat persisting for over three hours. Additionally, the BLA has released an audio clip, purportedly from one of its fighters participating in the attack on PNS Siddique. The recording features the fighter stating that multiple Pakistani vehicles have been targeted, suggesting both the continuation and escalation of the assault.

As events continue to unfold, Turbat is witnessing a notable increase in military activity, including the presence of numerous helicopters patrolling the skies.

Media reports from the ground indicate ongoing heavy gunfire and explosions. The Frontier Corps (FC) has blocked several major roads in Turbat, and a sizeable contingent of FC personnel is moving towards the naval airbase.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-set-to-discuss-trade-normalisation-in-kabul-talks-703881">Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks</a>

<h2>What is Majeed Brigade?</h2>

The Majeed Brigade, as per reports, is the BLA's dedicated suicide squad. It has been active since 2011, and is named after two brothers, Majeed Langove Senior and Majeed Langove Junior, who carried out suicide attacks in August 1974 and March 2010, respectively.

The militant group is opposed to China's investments in the province of Balochistan and accuses Pakistan and its ally China of exploiting the region's resources.

This attack in Turbat is the group's second operation within a week and its third major attack this year. Earlier, it launched an operation in Mach city on January 29 and an attack on the ISI and MI headquarters in Gwadar on March 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's second-largest naval air station, the PNS Siddique in Turbat, came under attack on Tuesday (Mar 26). The Majeed Brigade of the Balochistan Liberation Army, a proscribed separatist militant organisation based in Afghanistan, has claimed responsibility for the heavy attack that was marked by intense gunfire and multiple explosions.

Pakistan's second-largest naval air station, the PNS Siddique in Turbat, came under attack on Tuesday (Mar 26). The Majeed Brigade of the Balochistan Liberation Army, a proscribed separatist militant organisation based in Afghanistan, has claimed responsibility for the heavy attack that was marked by intense gunfire and multiple explosions. What we know so far As per the Balochistan Post, the Majeed Brigade claimed in an email to journalists that its fighters had entered the airbase. Following the attack, the District Health Officer of Kech has imposed an emergency at the Teaching Hospital in Turbat. All medical staff, including doctors, have been ordered to report immediately to manage the anticipated casualties from the assault. Also read | Pakistan launches bid for non-permanent UNSC seat for 2025-26 In a recent statement to the media, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed it has killed "over a dozen" Pakistani personnel, with its assault on PNS Siddique in Turbat persisting for over three hours. Additionally, the BLA has released an audio clip, purportedly from one of its fighters participating in the attack on PNS Siddique. The recording features the fighter stating that multiple Pakistani vehicles have been targeted, suggesting both the continuation and escalation of the assault. As events continue to unfold, Turbat is witnessing a notable increase in military activity, including the presence of numerous helicopters patrolling the skies. Media reports from the ground indicate ongoing heavy gunfire and explosions. The Frontier Corps (FC) has blocked several major roads in Turbat, and a sizeable contingent of FC personnel is moving towards the naval airbase. Also read | Pakistan, Afghanistan set to discuss trade normalisation in Kabul talks What is Majeed Brigade? The Majeed Brigade, as per reports, is the BLA's dedicated suicide squad. It has been active since 2011, and is named after two brothers, Majeed Langove Senior and Majeed Langove Junior, who carried out suicide attacks in August 1974 and March 2010, respectively. The militant group is opposed to China's investments in the province of Balochistan and accuses Pakistan and its ally China of exploiting the region's resources. This attack in Turbat is the group's second operation within a week and its third major attack this year. Earlier, it launched an operation in Mach city on January 29 and an attack on the ISI and MI headquarters in Gwadar on March 20. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's second-biggest naval base in Balochistan attacked by separatist militant group

China on Wednesday condemned the suicide attack in Pakistan’s Karachi University that claimed the lives&nbsp;of three of its citizens, and demanded a thorough investigation.

“China will continue to urge Pakistan to deal with the aftermath and the treatment of the injured and resolutely fight against terrorist organisations involved in the case," deputy director of the Chinese foreign ministry Zhao Lijian tweeted on Wednesday.

"The blood of the Chinese people should not be shed in vain and those behind this incident will pay the price," China’s Global Times quoted the foreign ministry’s statement.&nbsp;

Three Chinese tutors and their Pakistani driver were killed after a woman suicide bomber launched an attack outside the university’s Confucius Institute on Tuesday.

According to reports, another Chinese teacher was injured in the attack.

The separatist Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/possible-suicide-attack-in-pakistan-3-chinese-people-killed-473965">Baloch group claims Pak suicide blast carried out by woman that killed 3 Chinese</a>

Assistant foreign minister Wu Jianghao also called the Pakistani ambassador to China to express “extremely grave concern” over the attack.

He demanded that the Pakistani side should immediately make a thorough investigation of the incident, apprehend and punish the perpetrators to the full extent of the law, and take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan and prevent such incidents from happening again.

Watch |&nbsp;Three Chinese nationals among Four killed in Karachi University blast

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“The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan and Consulate-General in Karachi are working with the Pakistani side to deal with the follow-up matters of the casualties,” the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad on April 26 evening to convey condolences, saying that the government will conduct an in-depth probe into the incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Wednesday condemned the suicide attack in Pakistan’s Karachi University that claimed the lives of three of its citizens, and demanded a thorough investigation.

China on Wednesday condemned the suicide attack in Pakistan’s Karachi University that claimed the lives of three of its citizens, and demanded a thorough investigation. “China will continue to urge Pakistan to deal with the aftermath and the treatment of the injured and resolutely fight against terrorist organisations involved in the case," deputy director of the Chinese foreign ministry Zhao Lijian tweeted on Wednesday. "The blood of the Chinese people should not be shed in vain and those behind this incident will pay the price," China’s Global Times quoted the foreign ministry’s statement. Three Chinese tutors and their Pakistani driver were killed after a woman suicide bomber launched an attack outside the university’s Confucius Institute on Tuesday. According to reports, another Chinese teacher was injured in the attack. The separatist Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. Also read | Baloch group claims Pak suicide blast carried out by woman that killed 3 Chinese Assistant foreign minister Wu Jianghao also called the Pakistani ambassador to China to express “extremely grave concern” over the attack. He demanded that the Pakistani side should immediately make a thorough investigation of the incident, apprehend and punish the perpetrators to the full extent of the law, and take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan and prevent such incidents from happening again. Watch | Three Chinese nationals among Four killed in Karachi University blast “The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan and Consulate-General in Karachi are working with the Pakistani side to deal with the follow-up matters of the casualties,” the spokesperson said. Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad on April 26 evening to convey condolences, saying that the government will conduct an in-depth probe into the incident. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Blood should not be shed in vain’: China seeks strong action in Pakistan suicide attack

Tensions in Balochistan continue to simmer more than 40 hours after two separate attacks on Pakistan security forces' camps. Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

At least 12 Pakistani soldiers killed in two separate attacks in different Baloch districts

China has urged Pakistan to take action against two groups and declare them terrorists. This has put Imran Khan in a bit of a bother.

There are two groups in Pakistan which have come together share a common purpose. Attacking Chinese investments in Pakistan. Their alliance was announced on July 25.

A consortium of four Baloch organizations announced that they are tying up with the Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army or the S.R.A. This consortium is called the Baloch Raji Ajoi Sangar.

The S.R.A. is a little-known group operating in the southeastern Sindh province.

This new alliance has issued a statement. It says China wants to subjugate Sindh and Balochistan through CPEC.&nbsp;

The new alliance has members like the BLA or the Balochistan Liberation Army. It is the group that is well known for targeting the Chinese in Pakistan. It was behind the attack on the Karachi Stock Exchange in June.

The B.L.A. opposes Chinese investments in Balochistan and it represents a push back against CPEC.

The group was formed in the year 2000. It began attacking Pakistan’s security forces. More recently, it has begun targeting Chinese establishments in Pakistan.

In 2018, it attacked the Chinese consulate in Karachi.

A year later, a hotel backed by Chinese cash was targeted in Gwadar.

The attack on the stock exchange in Karachi was a direct hit on Chinese interests.

In January 2017, a consortium of Chinese firms acquired 40 per cent stake in the Pakistan Stock Exchange. Two years later, the Pakistanis side signed a contract with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.

This was for a new trading and surveillance program. A program that allows the stock exchange in Pakistan to link up with China's international stock markets.

The Balochistan Liberation Army is hitting China where it hurts the most. It is gaining momentum. New groups joined it last year. Creating a larger Baloch alliance.

Now, this resistance movement is getting bigger. So, China wants it banned.

According to reports, Beijing wants Islamabad to move the UN Security Council.

It wants the B.L.A. to be listed as a global terrorist organisation.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has become bigger than Pakistan. China's initial commitment was around 46 billion dollars. Now, China is investing well over 60 billion dollars on CPEC.

Other countries are joining the project. Last year, Saudi Arabia signed up to build an oil refinery in Gwadar. This is the reason why the Baloch movement bothers them.

The projects expand and security threats continue growing. And as security threat grows, Beijing's bills are increasing. More violent attacks will force China to re-evaluate security plans and costs.

It could even impact project timelines and lead to delays. 
&nbsp;

China has urged Pakistan to take action against two groups and declare them terrorists. This has put Imran Khan in a bit of a bother. There are two groups in Pakistan which have come together share a common purpose.

China has urged Pakistan to take action against two groups and declare them terrorists. This has put Imran Khan in a bit of a bother. There are two groups in Pakistan which have come together share a common purpose. Attacking Chinese investments in Pakistan. Their alliance was announced on July 25. A consortium of four Baloch organizations announced that they are tying up with the Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army or the S.R.A. This consortium is called the Baloch Raji Ajoi Sangar. The S.R.A. is a little-known group operating in the southeastern Sindh province. This new alliance has issued a statement. It says China wants to subjugate Sindh and Balochistan through CPEC. The new alliance has members like the BLA or the Balochistan Liberation Army. It is the group that is well known for targeting the Chinese in Pakistan. It was behind the attack on the Karachi Stock Exchange in June. The B.L.A. opposes Chinese investments in Balochistan and it represents a push back against CPEC. The group was formed in the year 2000. It began attacking Pakistan’s security forces. More recently, it has begun targeting Chinese establishments in Pakistan. In 2018, it attacked the Chinese consulate in Karachi. A year later, a hotel backed by Chinese cash was targeted in Gwadar. The attack on the stock exchange in Karachi was a direct hit on Chinese interests. In January 2017, a consortium of Chinese firms acquired 40 per cent stake in the Pakistan Stock Exchange. Two years later, the Pakistanis side signed a contract with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. This was for a new trading and surveillance program. A program that allows the stock exchange in Pakistan to link up with China's international stock markets. The Balochistan Liberation Army is hitting China where it hurts the most. It is gaining momentum. New groups joined it last year. Creating a larger Baloch alliance. Now, this resistance movement is getting bigger. So, China wants it banned. According to reports, Beijing wants Islamabad to move the UN Security Council. It wants the B.L.A. to be listed as a global terrorist organisation. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has become bigger than Pakistan. China's initial commitment was around 46 billion dollars. Now, China is investing well over 60 billion dollars on CPEC. Other countries are joining the project. Last year, Saudi Arabia signed up to build an oil refinery in Gwadar. This is the reason why the Baloch movement bothers them. The projects expand and security threats continue growing. And as security threat grows, Beijing's bills are increasing. More violent attacks will force China to re-evaluate security plans and costs. It could even impact project timelines and lead to delays.

China urges Pakistan to declare certain groups in country as terrorists

London-based Pakistan&nbsp;activist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/abducted-pakistan-journalist-gul-bukhari-returns-home-142485">Gul Bukhari</a> has been threatened with terror charges.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/abducted-pakistan-journalist-gul-bukhari-returns-home-142485">Bukhari </a>has been accused of harbouring anti-Pakistan agenda, being a part of a cyber-terrorism ring and being associated with the Haqqani network and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Balochistan Liberation army</a>.

The anti-terrorism wing of Pakistan's federal investigation agency has summoned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Bukhari </a>over her anti-Pakistan&nbsp;comments.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Pakistan army denies abducting&nbsp;activist Gul Bukhari</a>

She can be extradited via a court order and her property can also be confiscated by the government if she does not respond to the summon in 30 days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Gul Bukhari </a>is one of the most prominent Pakistani activists and a strong critic of the Pakistan army.&nbsp;She has consistently questioned the extra-constitutional influence that the army has had over the civilian government in Pakistan.

In 2018, she was abducted by an unidentified group of people but&nbsp;was released a few hours later.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/abducted-pakistan-journalist-gul-bukhari-returns-home-142485">Abducted Pakistan journalist Gul Bukhari returns home</a>

Subsequently, she moved to Britain since then, she has carried on with her activism from London.&nbsp;She was a Pakistan-based journalist earlier.&nbsp;Twitter has been buzzing with support for her ever since the news broke.

Pakistani citizens say the whole case is a conspiracy, a rap on the knuckles for her criticism of Imran Khan's government and the Pakistani army.&nbsp;Many of them have also questioned&nbsp;the government's priorities.

This move comes in the backdrop of a major security lapse in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Pakistan</a>.&nbsp;Security forces recently admitted that a high profile Pakistani <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Taliban </a>terrorist managed to escape from their custody.

Netizens are asking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-denies-abducting-british-activist-143352">Imran Khan</a> whether he is more interested in curbing dissent than securing his country against known terrorists.

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Don't believe Gul will be deterred/bullied by such tactics which are not new for her. Despicable to treat democratic voices like terrorists<a href="https://twitter.com/GulBukhari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GulBukhari</a>
— Tariq Butt (@tariqbutt_) <a href="https://twitter.com/tariqbutt_/status/1227197748291756032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Strongly condemn this heinous notice issued by FIA to <a href="https://twitter.com/GulBukhari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GulBukhari</a> 
That is the reason DG FIA Bashir Memon had to resign because he wouldn’t be part of this unlawfulness. 
 
This notice is beyond harassment and I rather see that as state terrorism to an innocent citizen. <a href="https://t.co/brJlN26Oak">https://t.co/brJlN26Oak</a>
— Shama Junejo (@ShamaJunejo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShamaJunejo/status/1227193786331209729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The pathetically shameless cowards institutions of the Pakistani state give protection and safe escape to terrorists like OBL and Ehsanullah Ehsan but show their relentless might when it comes to voice of dissidents who want democracy and peace to flourish in Pakistan. <a href="https://t.co/iGsQJHGf7A">https://t.co/iGsQJHGf7A</a>
— Gulalai_Ismail (@Gulalai_Ismail) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gulalai_Ismail/status/1227376893260959745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The pathetically shameless cowards institutions of the Pakistani state give protection and safe escape to terrorists like OBL and Ehsanullah Ehsan but show their relentless might when it comes to voice of dissidents who want democracy and peace to flourish in Pakistan. <a href="https://t.co/iGsQJHGf7A">https://t.co/iGsQJHGf7A</a>
— Gulalai_Ismail (@Gulalai_Ismail) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gulalai_Ismail/status/1227376893260959745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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They can't prevent ex-Taliban spox Ehsanullah Ehsan from "escaping", can't rein in Islamic State (Daesh) supporter Abdul Aziz of Lal Masjid, but they go after journalist &amp; rights activist Gul Bukhari (<a href="https://twitter.com/GulBukhari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GulBukhari</a>) as if she's a terrorist. Tells us a lot about their priorities.. <a href="https://t.co/4vqitqgNqZ">pic.twitter.com/4vqitqgNqZ</a>
— Bilal Farooqi (@bilalfqi) <a href="https://twitter.com/bilalfqi/status/1227149463715708928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

London-based Pakistan activist Gul Bukhari has been threatened with terror charges. Bukhari has been accused of harbouring anti-Pakistan agenda, being a part of a cyber-terrorism ring and being associated with the Haqqani network and the Balochistan Liberation army.

London-based Pakistan activist Gul Bukhari has been threatened with terror charges. Bukhari has been accused of harbouring anti-Pakistan agenda, being a part of a cyber-terrorism ring and being associated with the Haqqani network and the Balochistan Liberation army. The anti-terrorism wing of Pakistan's federal investigation agency has summoned Bukhari over her anti-Pakistan comments. Also read: Pakistan army denies abducting activist Gul Bukhari She can be extradited via a court order and her property can also be confiscated by the government if she does not respond to the summon in 30 days. Gul Bukhari is one of the most prominent Pakistani activists and a strong critic of the Pakistan army. She has consistently questioned the extra-constitutional influence that the army has had over the civilian government in Pakistan. In 2018, she was abducted by an unidentified group of people but was released a few hours later. Also read: Abducted Pakistan journalist Gul Bukhari returns home Subsequently, she moved to Britain since then, she has carried on with her activism from London. She was a Pakistan-based journalist earlier. Twitter has been buzzing with support for her ever since the news broke. Pakistani citizens say the whole case is a conspiracy, a rap on the knuckles for her criticism of Imran Khan's government and the Pakistani army. Many of them have also questioned the government's priorities. This move comes in the backdrop of a major security lapse in Pakistan. Security forces recently admitted that a high profile Pakistani Taliban terrorist managed to escape from their custody. Netizens are asking Imran Khan whether he is more interested in curbing dissent than securing his country against known terrorists. Don't believe Gul will be deterred/bullied by such tactics which are not new for her. Despicable to treat democratic voices like terrorists@GulBukhari — Tariq Butt (@tariqbutt_) February 11, 2020 × Strongly condemn this heinous notice issued by FIA to @GulBukhari That is the reason DG FIA Bashir Memon had to resign because he wouldn’t be part of this unlawfulness. This notice is beyond harassment and I rather see that as state terrorism to an innocent citizen. https://t.co/brJlN26Oak — Shama Junejo (@ShamaJunejo) February 11, 2020 × The pathetically shameless cowards institutions of the Pakistani state give protection and safe escape to terrorists like OBL and Ehsanullah Ehsan but show their relentless might when it comes to voice of dissidents who want democracy and peace to flourish in Pakistan. https://t.co/iGsQJHGf7A — Gulalai_Ismail (@Gulalai_Ismail) February 11, 2020 × The pathetically shameless cowards institutions of the Pakistani state give protection and safe escape to terrorists like OBL and Ehsanullah Ehsan but show their relentless might when it comes to voice of dissidents who want democracy and peace to flourish in Pakistan. https://t.co/iGsQJHGf7A — Gulalai_Ismail (@Gulalai_Ismail) February 11, 2020 × They can't prevent ex-Taliban spox Ehsanullah Ehsan from "escaping", can't rein in Islamic State (Daesh) supporter Abdul Aziz of Lal Masjid, but they go after journalist & rights activist Gul Bukhari (@GulBukhari) as if she's a terrorist. Tells us a lot about their priorities.. pic.twitter.com/4vqitqgNqZ — Bilal Farooqi (@bilalfqi) February 11, 2020 ×

Pakistan's anti-terror wing summons activist Gul Bukhari

Pakistani authorities on Saturday confirmed that all guests and staff members have been rescued from Pearl Continental Hotel in Gwadar in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/4-killed-as-armed-militants-storm-5-star-hotel-in-pakistans-gwadar-port-city-police-217847">wake of an attack in which a security guard was killed</a>.

Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Mohammad Waseem said that the "the process of clearing the hotel has entered its final stages," The Dawn reported.

Several gunshots were heard after three armed terrorists entered the private five-star hotel.

The security guard was killed after he tried to stop the gunmen from entering the hotel's premises, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to the organisation's spokesperson Junaid Baloch.

Balochistan chief minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani condemned the attack and urged a "well planned and strong action". He directed authorities to ensure the safety of the people inside the hotel.

The Pearl Continental Hotel is frequented by both business and leisure travellers. In the last few years, the BLA has been conducting several suicide attacks in Balochistan.

The group was also behind the attack at the Chinese Consulate in Karachi last year.&nbsp;

Pakistani authorities on Saturday confirmed that all guests and staff members have been rescued from Pearl Continental Hotel in Gwadar in the wake of an attack in which a security guard was killed.

Pakistani authorities on Saturday confirmed that all guests and staff members have been rescued from Pearl Continental Hotel in Gwadar in the wake of an attack in which a security guard was killed. Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Mohammad Waseem said that the "the process of clearing the hotel has entered its final stages," The Dawn reported. Several gunshots were heard after three armed terrorists entered the private five-star hotel. The security guard was killed after he tried to stop the gunmen from entering the hotel's premises, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to the organisation's spokesperson Junaid Baloch. Balochistan chief minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani condemned the attack and urged a "well planned and strong action". He directed authorities to ensure the safety of the people inside the hotel. The Pearl Continental Hotel is frequented by both business and leisure travellers. In the last few years, the BLA has been conducting several suicide attacks in Balochistan. The group was also behind the attack at the Chinese Consulate in Karachi last year.

Pakistan hotel attack: Process of clearing enters final stage, all guests, staff members rescued safely

An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to "sabotage prosperity", Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed.

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hotel-attack-process-of-clearing-enters-final-stage-all-guests-staff-members-rescued-safely-217875">one person was shot dead</a> Saturday after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project.&nbsp;

A Baloch separatist group, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/4-killed-as-armed-militants-storm-5-star-hotel-in-pakistans-gwadar-port-city-police-217847">Balochistan Liberation Army</a> (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter.

"Such attempts, especially in Balochistan, are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident.&nbsp;

Local police said four gunmen who had stormed the hotel, shooting dead a security guard, had been killed overnight by security forces.

"All four terrorists were killed and security forces had taken complete control of the hotel building," a local police official in Gwadar told AFP via telephone.

His account was confirmed by a security source in Islamabad. The military had said on Saturday that there were three gunmen.

Mohammad Aslam, a police official in Gwadar, told AFP Saturday that only staff were present in the building at the time of the attack.

The BLA is one of a myriad of insurgent groups fighting in tightly-guarded Balochistan province, which has been rocked by separatist, Islamist and sectarian violence for years.

'The next Dubai'

The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistan's largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats.

It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as "the next Dubai" thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Part of China's Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plan's flagship project.

Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits.

But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistan's poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources.

The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year.

At the time, the BLA branded Beijing "an oppressor".

Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations.

The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the country's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.

An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to "sabotage prosperity", Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed.

An attack on a luxury hotel in the southwestern city of Gwadar was a bid to "sabotage prosperity", Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan said Sunday, as police confirmed all the attackers had been killed. At least one person was shot dead Saturday after gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in the southwestern Pakistani city of Gwadar, the centrepiece of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure project. A Baloch separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack via Twitter. "Such attempts, especially in Balochistan, are an effort to sabotage our economic projects and prosperity. We shall not allow these agendas to succeed," Khan said in a statement issued by his office. The Chinese embassy in Islamabad also strongly condemned the incident. Local police said four gunmen who had stormed the hotel, shooting dead a security guard, had been killed overnight by security forces. "All four terrorists were killed and security forces had taken complete control of the hotel building," a local police official in Gwadar told AFP via telephone. His account was confirmed by a security source in Islamabad. The military had said on Saturday that there were three gunmen. Mohammad Aslam, a police official in Gwadar, told AFP Saturday that only staff were present in the building at the time of the attack. The BLA is one of a myriad of insurgent groups fighting in tightly-guarded Balochistan province, which has been rocked by separatist, Islamist and sectarian violence for years. 'The next Dubai' The Pearl Continental, part of Pakistan's largest five-star hotel chain, is the only luxury hotel in Gwadar, frequented by foreign and Pakistani business delegations as well as diplomats. It sits isolated on a ridge overlooking the Arabian Sea port city that was formerly a small fishing village, but now touted by officials as "the next Dubai" thanks to the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Part of China's Belt and Road initiative, CPEC seeks to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, with the development of the port as the plan's flagship project. Gwadar will provide China with safer and more direct access to the oil-rich Middle East than the waterway trade route it currently uses through the narrow Malacca Straits. But it has also drawn its share of attacks -- particularly from separatists who have long complained that residents of Pakistan's poorest and largest province do not receive a fair share of profits from its resources. The BLA has targeted Chinese workers in Pakistan multiple times, including during a brazen daylight attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which killed four people in November last year. At the time, the BLA branded Beijing "an oppressor". Balochistan is tightly guarded by the Pakistani military, who have been targeting insurgents there since 2004. The army has been repeatedly accused by international rights groups of abuses there, but denies all allegations. The attack was the second deadly attack in a prominent Pakistan city this week, after a suicide blast claimed by the Pakistani Taliban at one of the country's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 12 people in the eastern city of Lahore.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan slams hotel attack as bid to damage economy

Two persons have been arrested in Pakistan in connection with the recent terror attack on the Chinese consulate here in which seven people, including three militants, were killed, media reports said Sunday.

Those arrested are the brothers of Abdul Razzaq Baloch, who was one of the three militants of the outlawed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) which claimed the attack on Friday, Dawn news reported.

The investigation agencies found that one of the slain militants, Razzaq Baloch, belonged to Kharan district of the restive Balochistan province, it said.

Raids were carried out in different areas of Kharan on Saturday and Mohammad Aslam and Khosti were taken into custory, the report said.

Balochistan Home Minister Mir Saleem Ahmad Khosa said that Razzaq Baloch's name was on the missing persons' list over the past two years.

A large number of people mentioned in the list had gone aboard for terrorism training, he said.

The minister claimed that BLA commander Aslam alias Acho had been injured in a gun battle with security forces last year, but he managed to escape.

On Friday, three heavily-armed suicide bombers stormed the Chinese consulate, killing four people including two policemen before being shot dead by security forces which foiled the daring attack in the high-security zone.

Nine hand grenades, Kalashnikov assault rifles, magazines and explosives were recovered from the possession of the terrorists.

Resource-rich Balochistan is at the heart of the ambitious USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The CPEC is a string of huge infrastructure investments by China in Pakistan which will link its western Xinjiang province with the Arabian Sea port of Gwadar in Balochistan.

Over the years, construction projects and Chinese workers in Balochistan have been repeatedly targeted by militants but this was one of the most prominent attacks to date.

China's foreign ministry strongly condemned the attack on its consulate and urged its all-weather ally to take "practical measures" to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens in the country, mostly on projects linked to the CPEC.

Hundreds of Chinese nationals are presently working in Pakistan specially in Karachi and the Balochistan.

It was the first major terror strike in Karachi since March, 2016 when 45 Ismaili Muslims were killed in a targeted attack.&nbsp;

Two persons have been arrested in Pakistan in connection with the recent terror attack on the Chinese consulate here in which seven people, including three militants, were killed, media reports said Sunday.

Two persons have been arrested in Pakistan in connection with the recent terror attack on the Chinese consulate here in which seven people, including three militants, were killed, media reports said Sunday. Those arrested are the brothers of Abdul Razzaq Baloch, who was one of the three militants of the outlawed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) which claimed the attack on Friday, Dawn news reported. The investigation agencies found that one of the slain militants, Razzaq Baloch, belonged to Kharan district of the restive Balochistan province, it said. Raids were carried out in different areas of Kharan on Saturday and Mohammad Aslam and Khosti were taken into custory, the report said. Balochistan Home Minister Mir Saleem Ahmad Khosa said that Razzaq Baloch's name was on the missing persons' list over the past two years. A large number of people mentioned in the list had gone aboard for terrorism training, he said. The minister claimed that BLA commander Aslam alias Acho had been injured in a gun battle with security forces last year, but he managed to escape. On Friday, three heavily-armed suicide bombers stormed the Chinese consulate, killing four people including two policemen before being shot dead by security forces which foiled the daring attack in the high-security zone. Nine hand grenades, Kalashnikov assault rifles, magazines and explosives were recovered from the possession of the terrorists. Resource-rich Balochistan is at the heart of the ambitious USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The CPEC is a string of huge infrastructure investments by China in Pakistan which will link its western Xinjiang province with the Arabian Sea port of Gwadar in Balochistan. Over the years, construction projects and Chinese workers in Balochistan have been repeatedly targeted by militants but this was one of the most prominent attacks to date. China's foreign ministry strongly condemned the attack on its consulate and urged its all-weather ally to take "practical measures" to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens in the country, mostly on projects linked to the CPEC. Hundreds of Chinese nationals are presently working in Pakistan specially in Karachi and the Balochistan. It was the first major terror strike in Karachi since March, 2016 when 45 Ismaili Muslims were killed in a targeted attack.

Pakistan arrests two in terror attack on Chinese consulate

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