The tensions are reaching a tipping point in Pakistan's Balochistan province as people in the city of Quetta and other parts observed a shutdown strike on Saturday. The protest comes after a violent police crackdown on Friday during a demonstration by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). The BYC claims that three people were killed and 13 others injured during the clash, while the police said that 10 security personnel were wounded.

Balochistan unrest continues: Shutter-down strike cripples Quetta

Balochistan remains the biggest security headache for Pakistan. The train hijacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army is the latest episode in the surging violence in the province. The hijacking marks a new chapter in the Baloch movement, an armed insurgency seeking independence for the mineral-rich region. WION's Pakistan Bureau Chief Anas Mallick visited Balochistan after the recent attacks...brings you a ground report!

Why is Balochistan under shadow of terror? | WION exclusive ground report

Three universities in Pakistan's Balochistan province have indefinitely suspended on-campus classes and asked students to attend virtual classes apparently due to security reasons, amid a surge in terror attacks in the area, according to media reports.
The University of Balochistan, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University and the University of Turbat decided this after consultation with deans and heads of the academic departments, The Express Tribune newspaper reported.
The development comes in the wake of a series of deadly terror attacks in the province.
Terrorists last week hijacked the Jaffar Express near Sibi. Twenty-six hostages, including 18 security personnel, lost their lives in the attack.
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Since then, multiple attacks have taken place across Balochistan.
Sources said the three varsities moved classes online after recent attacks and security threats.
However, the three universities offered different reasons for the suspension of on-campus academic activities.
A notification issued by the University of Balochistan said a meeting was convened with the deans and sectional heads, which decided that all campuses would switch to virtual learning until further orders. It offered no reason for the decision.
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University of Balochistan Vice Chancellor Zahoor Ahmad Bazai told Dawn.com that classes have been moved online as students from remote areas were unable to reach campuses due to protests on national highways.
&ldquo;As soon as the issue of sit-ins and closure on national highways is resolved, the University of Balochistan will resume its work in normal conditions,&rdquo; Bazai told the Dawn newspaper.
The Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University also issued a notification announcing a similar decision. It said students will attend online classes during Ramzan.
A statement issued by the University of Trubat after a meeting chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Gul Hasan said in light of the &ldquo;prevailing situation&rdquo;, the meeting decided to suspend on-campus academic activities and classes from Tuesday.
It added that the meeting discussed and reviewed academic and administrative matters, along with the ongoing &ldquo;illegal occupation and blockade&rdquo; of the university&rsquo;s administrative block by a group of students.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/didnt-eat-drank-water-from-trains-toilet-pakistans-jaffar-express-hostages-tell-terrifying-tale-8849015">Didn't eat, drank water from train's toilet: Pakistan's Jaffar Express hostages tell terrifying tale</a>
The participants decided to stop the entry of outsiders to protect the university&rsquo;s assets, as well as the lives of employees and students residing on the premises. The statement asked the students to vacate hostel rooms within two days.
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.
&nbsp;

Pakistan, South asia: A notification issued by the University of Balochistan said that all campuses would switch to virtual learning until further orders.

Three universities in Pakistan's Balochistan province have indefinitely suspended on-campus classes and asked students to attend virtual classes apparently due to security reasons, amid a surge in terror attacks in the area, according to media reports. The University of Balochistan, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University and the University of Turbat decided this after consultation with deans and heads of the academic departments, The Express Tribune newspaper reported. The development comes in the wake of a series of deadly terror attacks in the province. Terrorists last week hijacked the Jaffar Express near Sibi. Twenty-six hostages, including 18 security personnel, lost their lives in the attack. Also read: Who was Naseer Soomro? Pakistan’s tallest man dies after prolonged illness Since then, multiple attacks have taken place across Balochistan. Sources said the three varsities moved classes online after recent attacks and security threats. However, the three universities offered different reasons for the suspension of on-campus academic activities. A notification issued by the University of Balochistan said a meeting was convened with the deans and sectional heads, which decided that all campuses would switch to virtual learning until further orders. It offered no reason for the decision. Also read: ‘Instead of spreading lies, vacate our territory’: India blasts Pakistan for its remarks on Jammu and Kashmir University of Balochistan Vice Chancellor Zahoor Ahmad Bazai told Dawn.com that classes have been moved online as students from remote areas were unable to reach campuses due to protests on national highways. “As soon as the issue of sit-ins and closure on national highways is resolved, the University of Balochistan will resume its work in normal conditions,” Bazai told the Dawn newspaper. The Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University also issued a notification announcing a similar decision. It said students will attend online classes during Ramzan. A statement issued by the University of Trubat after a meeting chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Gul Hasan said in light of the “prevailing situation”, the meeting decided to suspend on-campus academic activities and classes from Tuesday. It added that the meeting discussed and reviewed academic and administrative matters, along with the ongoing “illegal occupation and blockade” of the university’s administrative block by a group of students. Also read: Didn't eat, drank water from train's toilet: Pakistan's Jaffar Express hostages tell terrifying tale The participants decided to stop the entry of outsiders to protect the university’s assets, as well as the lives of employees and students residing on the premises. The statement asked the students to vacate hostel rooms within two days. 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.

Balochistan universities suspend on-campus classes amid terror attacks, shifts to virtual mode

Balochistan is witnessing a surge in insurgent attacks, putting Pakistan on edge. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked a passenger train on March 11, killing 26 hostages. Days later, a Pakistan Army convoy was ambushed, leaving 11 soldiers dead. As security is tightened, the government insists no grand operation is needed, while opposition leaders plan protests against the administration. WION's Anas Mallick brings you a ground report!

Pakistan: Train hijacked, security personnel ambushed in Balochistan

Balochistan is witnessing a surge in insurgent attacks, putting Pakistan on edge. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked a passenger train on March 11, killing 26 hostages. Days later, a Pakistan Army convoy was ambushed, leaving 11 soldiers dead. As security is tightened, the government insists no grand operation is needed, while opposition leaders plan protests against the administration.

Pakistan sees deadliest spells of violence in Balochistan province

A bomb exploded near a bus carrying security forces in Pakistan's restive southwestern region of Balochistan's Naushki. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Army convoy attacked in Balochistan, 11 killed

In a shocking escalation, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for launching a second suicide bombing in Pakistan within just one week. The attack has resulted in several casualties. Local officials confirm that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue. This latest assault marks a significant uptick in violence in the region, raising concerns over Pakistan's security situation. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Under Attack: At least 9 security forces personnel killed in suicide bomb attack

At least 11 people were killed, including nine security forces personnel and two civilians, and 21 others were injured after a convoy of buses was attacked in Noshki on the national highway in Balochistan province of Pakistan on Sunday.  Watch this report for more updates!

Suicide bomb attack in Balochistan: 9 security forces personnel among 11 killed

At least 11 people were killed, including nine security forces personnel and two civilians, and 21 others were injured after a convoy of buses was attacked in Noshki on the national highway in Balochistan province of Pakistan on Sunday (Mar 16).&nbsp;
Police officials told WION that given the sheer magnitude and intensity of the explosion, the death toll is expected to rise. Three militants have been killed by the security forces, according to the Pakistan military spokesperson.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/major-explosion-near-convoy-in-balochistans-noshki-in-pakistan-8858248">Pakistan: Attack on paramilitary convoy in Balochistan&rsquo;s Noshki kills at least 11</a>
<h2>What we know about the attack?</h2>
WION learned that the strike was a coordinated attack by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) Majeed Brigade and Special Unit Fateh Squad. The BLA has claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;
The buses were first hit by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), followed by RPGs being launched. After this, a vehicle-borne IED or suicide bomber rammed into the convoy. The second and third buses came under attack with a VBIED and a direct rocket attack.&nbsp;
A counteroperation has been launched by the Pakistani military in which two BLA militants have been killed so far. The search and rescue operation is underway.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com">155 hostages freed, 27 militants killed in Pakistan train siege: security sources</a>
The convoy included seven civil hired buses and four security personnel cars and was travelling from Quetta to Taftan on the Pakistan-Iran border. They were transporting a detachment of Taftan Rifles to their Forward Coy Location from Quetta, which was led by a Lt Col in unmarked vehicles.
The buses were carrying 40-45 pax per vehicle, which were completely gutted and destroyed as seen in the footage released by BLA and the Pakistan military.
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Baloch Liberation Army publishes the first visuals of the Noshki attack on the Pakistan Army's convoy. (Source: BLA) <a href="https://t.co/Sygiz9sdYS">pic.twitter.com/Sygiz9sdYS</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1901302667973943376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Violence incidents in region</h2>
The route, where the recent attack took place, has seen similar incidents of violence, including the Mustung bus bombing in 2014. A bus carrying pilgrims returning from Iran was attacked while it was passing through the Mastung District on the Quetta-Taftan Highway, killing at least 22 and wounding more than two dozen.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com">All hostages freed, 28 soldiers killed in Pakistan train siege</a>
<h2>Pakistan train siege</h2>
The recent convoy attack comes just days after a passenger train was hijacked in the Balochistan province. On Tuesday (Mar 11), the BLA attacked the Jaffar Express and took over 450 passengers hostage. The Pakistani authorities confirmed on Wednesday (Mar 12) that they have concluded the train hijack operation, killing all 33 Baloch militants.
According to the Pakistan military spokesperson, 21 civilians were killed, while four Frontier Corps personnel lost their lives.
(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | Pakistan: WION learned that the strike was a coordinated attack. The buses were first hit by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), followed by RPGs being launched.

At least 11 people were killed, including nine security forces personnel and two civilians, and 21 others were injured after a convoy of buses was attacked in Noshki on the national highway in Balochistan province of Pakistan on Sunday (Mar 16). Police officials told WION that given the sheer magnitude and intensity of the explosion, the death toll is expected to rise. Three militants have been killed by the security forces, according to the Pakistan military spokesperson. Also read | Pakistan: Attack on paramilitary convoy in Balochistan’s Noshki kills at least 11 What we know about the attack? WION learned that the strike was a coordinated attack by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) Majeed Brigade and Special Unit Fateh Squad. The BLA has claimed responsibility for the attack. The buses were first hit by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), followed by RPGs being launched. After this, a vehicle-borne IED or suicide bomber rammed into the convoy. The second and third buses came under attack with a VBIED and a direct rocket attack. A counteroperation has been launched by the Pakistani military in which two BLA militants have been killed so far. The search and rescue operation is underway. Also read | 155 hostages freed, 27 militants killed in Pakistan train siege: security sources The convoy included seven civil hired buses and four security personnel cars and was travelling from Quetta to Taftan on the Pakistan-Iran border. They were transporting a detachment of Taftan Rifles to their Forward Coy Location from Quetta, which was led by a Lt Col in unmarked vehicles. The buses were carrying 40-45 pax per vehicle, which were completely gutted and destroyed as seen in the footage released by BLA and the Pakistan military. Baloch Liberation Army publishes the first visuals of the Noshki attack on the Pakistan Army's convoy. (Source: BLA) pic.twitter.com/Sygiz9sdYS — WION (@WIONews) March 16, 2025 Violence incidents in region The route, where the recent attack took place, has seen similar incidents of violence, including the Mustung bus bombing in 2014. A bus carrying pilgrims returning from Iran was attacked while it was passing through the Mastung District on the Quetta-Taftan Highway, killing at least 22 and wounding more than two dozen. Also read | All hostages freed, 28 soldiers killed in Pakistan train siege Pakistan train siege The recent convoy attack comes just days after a passenger train was hijacked in the Balochistan province. On Tuesday (Mar 11), the BLA attacked the Jaffar Express and took over 450 passengers hostage. The Pakistani authorities confirmed on Wednesday (Mar 12) that they have concluded the train hijack operation, killing all 33 Baloch militants. According to the Pakistan military spokesperson, 21 civilians were killed, while four Frontier Corps personnel lost their lives. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan convoy attack: What we know about strike on Frontier Corps in Balochistan

Another attack on the Pakistan army. BLA claimed responsibility and stated that 9 security personnel were among 11 killed in the operation against the Pakistan army. Watch this report for more updates!

Breaking: Pakistan: 9 security personnel among 11 killed in Balochistan attack

Militants of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the separatist group, hijacked the passenger train Jaffar Express in Pakistan&rsquo;s Balochistan province on Tuesday (Mar 11).&nbsp;
The train was carrying over 450 passengers. According to security officials, 190 passengers have been rescued while 30 militants have been killed as the security forces continue rescue operations on the second day.
The militant group demanded the release of all political prisoners and Baloch activists and gave a 48-hour deadline for prisoner exchange.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-train-hijack-security-forces-rescue-104-hostages-from-jaffar-express-12-soldiers-martyred-in-deadly-train-hijack-at-bolan-pass-8844984">Pakistan train hijack: Security forces rescue 104 hostages from Jaffar Express, 12 soldiers killed</a>
<h2>Who are Baloch Liberation Army?</h2>
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is a militant group operating primarily from Afghanistan. It seeks to remove Balochistan from Pakistan&rsquo;s sovereignty and frequently launches attacks on Pakistani armed forces in the province, which borders Afghanistan and Iran.&nbsp;
Although it is believed that the group was founded in 2000, some media analysts speculate it is a resurgence of prior Baloch insurgencies, particularly the Independent Balochistan Movement of 1973 to 1977.&nbsp;
The militant group has been designated as a terrorist organisation by Pakistan, the US, and the UK. Pakistan has accused foreign intelligence agencies of supporting BLA, especially India and Afghanistan.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-train-hijack-baloch-group-kills-20-military-personnel-gives-48-hour-deadline-as-it-hold-182-hostages-8844514">Pakistan train hijack: Baloch group kills 20 military personnel, gives 48-hour deadline as it holds 182 hostages</a>
<h2>What is BLA fighting for?</h2>
BLA is the biggest ethnic insurgent group that has battled with the Pakistani government for decades. It claims that the government is unfairly exploiting Balochistan&rsquo;s rich mineral and gas resources, which the BLA alleges belong to their people.
The Balochistan province has several major mining projects, including Reko Diq, one of the largest gold and copper mines in the world, which is operated by Barrick Gold. China, which has played a key role in Pakistan&rsquo;s infrastructure development, also runs mining projects in the province.
The BLA has initiated several violent attacks to oppose the Chinese interests, especially the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Gwadar Port. The militant group accuses Beijing of aiding Islamabad to exploit Balochistan economically. The BLA has previously targeted Chinese nationals working in the region and attacked China&rsquo;s consulate in Karachi.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Pakistan-firing-at-jaffer-express-in-balochistan-several-passengers-injured-bla-claims-train-hijack-8842982">Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train</a>
Pakistan&rsquo;s security forces have been battling insurgency in impoverished Balochistan. According to the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, last year saw a surge in violence in the province compared with 2023.
It found that 2024 was the deadliest year for Pakistan in a decade, with violence rising along the Afghanistan border since the Taliban government took back power in Kabul in 2021. Pakistan blames its neighbour for allowing militant groups a safe haven to plan and launch attacks on Pakistan, a charge Kabul denies.
<h2>Recent attacks by BLA</h2>
In 2022, the BLA launched coordinated strikes on army and naval bases, displaying its military strength. Over time, the group has evolved its tactics and incorporated suicide bombings and female attackers. In the same year, it launched an attack on Chinese nationals at a university campus in Karachi.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/beijings-secret-war-is-china-weaponising-pakistan-and-bangladesh-8838689">Beijing&rsquo;s secret war: Is China weaponising Pakistan and Bangladesh?</a>
The BLA has also targeted high-profile Chinese officials, such as the attack in Gwadar in March 2024. It has also fuelled cross-border tensions with Iran in 2024, when a BLA-linked attack contributed to missile strikes between the two countries.
(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | The militant group demanded the release of all political prisoners and Baloch activists and gave a 48-hour deadline for a prisoner exchange.

Militants of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the separatist group, hijacked the passenger train Jaffar Express in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Tuesday (Mar 11). The train was carrying over 450 passengers. According to security officials, 190 passengers have been rescued while 30 militants have been killed as the security forces continue rescue operations on the second day. The militant group demanded the release of all political prisoners and Baloch activists and gave a 48-hour deadline for prisoner exchange. Also read | Pakistan train hijack: Security forces rescue 104 hostages from Jaffar Express, 12 soldiers killed Who are Baloch Liberation Army? The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is a militant group operating primarily from Afghanistan. It seeks to remove Balochistan from Pakistan’s sovereignty and frequently launches attacks on Pakistani armed forces in the province, which borders Afghanistan and Iran. Although it is believed that the group was founded in 2000, some media analysts speculate it is a resurgence of prior Baloch insurgencies, particularly the Independent Balochistan Movement of 1973 to 1977. The militant group has been designated as a terrorist organisation by Pakistan, the US, and the UK. Pakistan has accused foreign intelligence agencies of supporting BLA, especially India and Afghanistan. Also read | Pakistan train hijack: Baloch group kills 20 military personnel, gives 48-hour deadline as it holds 182 hostages What is BLA fighting for? BLA is the biggest ethnic insurgent group that has battled with the Pakistani government for decades. It claims that the government is unfairly exploiting Balochistan’s rich mineral and gas resources, which the BLA alleges belong to their people. The Balochistan province has several major mining projects, including Reko Diq, one of the largest gold and copper mines in the world, which is operated by Barrick Gold. China, which has played a key role in Pakistan’s infrastructure development, also runs mining projects in the province. The BLA has initiated several violent attacks to oppose the Chinese interests, especially the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Gwadar Port. The militant group accuses Beijing of aiding Islamabad to exploit Balochistan economically. The BLA has previously targeted Chinese nationals working in the region and attacked China’s consulate in Karachi. Also read | Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train Pakistan’s security forces have been battling insurgency in impoverished Balochistan. According to the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, last year saw a surge in violence in the province compared with 2023. It found that 2024 was the deadliest year for Pakistan in a decade, with violence rising along the Afghanistan border since the Taliban government took back power in Kabul in 2021. Pakistan blames its neighbour for allowing militant groups a safe haven to plan and launch attacks on Pakistan, a charge Kabul denies. Recent attacks by BLA In 2022, the BLA launched coordinated strikes on army and naval bases, displaying its military strength. Over time, the group has evolved its tactics and incorporated suicide bombings and female attackers. In the same year, it launched an attack on Chinese nationals at a university campus in Karachi. Also read | Beijing’s secret war: Is China weaponising Pakistan and Bangladesh? The BLA has also targeted high-profile Chinese officials, such as the attack in Gwadar in March 2024. It has also fuelled cross-border tensions with Iran in 2024, when a BLA-linked attack contributed to missile strikes between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Who are Baloch Liberation Army? All you need to know about militant group that hijacked Pakistani train

A passenger train carrying hundreds of people was hijacked by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Tuesday (March 11). The BLA later claimed that the gunmen were holding 182 passengers as hostages and had killed 20 military personnel, according to ANI.&nbsp;
The gunmen opened fire on the Jaffar Express and threatened to execute all hostages if security forces didn't retreat.&nbsp;
Following the attack, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned terrorist organisation, claimed responsibility while claiming to have hijacked the train.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Pakistan-firing-at-jaffer-express-in-balochistan-several-passengers-injured-bla-claims-train-hijack-8842982">Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train</a>
"After capturing the Jaffar Express, the fighters of the Baloch Liberation Army have taken 182 hostages who have been in our custody for the past six hours. During this operation, an additional eight Pakistani military personnel were eliminated, bringing the total number of enemy casualties to over 20," the BLA said in its statement.
AK Shaheen, the Media Coordinator for Sibbi District said that the driver of the train has been killed in the firing, while multiple people have been injured.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/beijings-secret-war-is-china-weaponising-pakistan-and-bangladesh-8838689">Beijing&rsquo;s secret war: Is China weaponising Pakistan and Bangladesh?</a>
<h2>What does BLA want?</h2>
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants have set a 48-hour deadline, seeking the "immediate and unconditional release of Baloch political prisoners, forcibly disappeared persons and national resistance activists", in exchange for the hostages.
The BLA further said that they are confronting the Pakistani Air Force using anti-aircraft artillery.&nbsp;
"Throughout the ongoing operation, intense confrontations have taken place with the Pakistani Air Force, with our fighters using anti-aircraft artillery and inflicting severe losses on the enemy," the BLA said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunmen-identify-kill-7-punjabi-travellers-in-pakistan-8734995">Gunmen in Balochistan single out 7 bus travellers from Pakistan's Punajb and kill them</a>
The militant outfit further noted that not a single BLA fighter has been injured or killed.&nbsp;
"Currently, all hostages are in the custody of the BLA's Fidayeen unit, Majeed Brigade. Clear instructions have been issued to the Majeed Brigade: if the Pakistani military attempts to approach, all hostages will be executed and the Fidayeen will continue their resistance until martyrdom without retreating," the statement concluded.
Following this, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation, Dawn reported, citing government spokesperson Shahid Rind.
A massive counter-operation is underway to secure the hostages. The Pakistan Army has also rushed a relief train with reinforcements of soldiers and doctors to the incident spot, according to sources.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-police-arrest-10-pakistani-nationals-for-promoting-terrorism-and-extremism-8838416">Spanish Police arrest 10 Pakistani nationals for promoting terrorism and extremism</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, south asia: Following this, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation.

A passenger train carrying hundreds of people was hijacked by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) on Tuesday (March 11). The BLA later claimed that the gunmen were holding 182 passengers as hostages and had killed 20 military personnel, according to ANI. The gunmen opened fire on the Jaffar Express and threatened to execute all hostages if security forces didn't retreat. Following the attack, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned terrorist organisation, claimed responsibility while claiming to have hijacked the train. Also read: Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train "After capturing the Jaffar Express, the fighters of the Baloch Liberation Army have taken 182 hostages who have been in our custody for the past six hours. During this operation, an additional eight Pakistani military personnel were eliminated, bringing the total number of enemy casualties to over 20," the BLA said in its statement. AK Shaheen, the Media Coordinator for Sibbi District said that the driver of the train has been killed in the firing, while multiple people have been injured. Also read: Beijing’s secret war: Is China weaponising Pakistan and Bangladesh? What does BLA want? The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants have set a 48-hour deadline, seeking the "immediate and unconditional release of Baloch political prisoners, forcibly disappeared persons and national resistance activists", in exchange for the hostages. The BLA further said that they are confronting the Pakistani Air Force using anti-aircraft artillery. "Throughout the ongoing operation, intense confrontations have taken place with the Pakistani Air Force, with our fighters using anti-aircraft artillery and inflicting severe losses on the enemy," the BLA said. Also read: Gunmen in Balochistan single out 7 bus travellers from Pakistan's Punajb and kill them The militant outfit further noted that not a single BLA fighter has been injured or killed. "Currently, all hostages are in the custody of the BLA's Fidayeen unit, Majeed Brigade. Clear instructions have been issued to the Majeed Brigade: if the Pakistani military attempts to approach, all hostages will be executed and the Fidayeen will continue their resistance until martyrdom without retreating," the statement concluded. Following this, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation, Dawn reported, citing government spokesperson Shahid Rind. A massive counter-operation is underway to secure the hostages. The Pakistan Army has also rushed a relief train with reinforcements of soldiers and doctors to the incident spot, according to sources. Also read: Spanish Police arrest 10 Pakistani nationals for promoting terrorism and extremism (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan train hijack: Baloch group kills 20 military personnel, gives 48-hour deadline as it holds 182 hostages

Gunmen attacked the Jaffar Express going from Quetta to Peshawar near Sibbi, Balochistan, in Pakistan on Tuesday, as per the latest inputs. The attack took place in Dhadar in Bolan.&nbsp;
Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned terrorist organisation, has reportedly taken responsibility of the incident while claiming to have hijacked the train. The driver of the train has been killed in the firing, while multiple people are injured, said AK Shaheen, the Media Coordinator for Sibbi District.
As per official sources, there are over 30 military personnel also travelling on the train.
Sources from the ground said that three militants have been killed in the ongoing operation, though the claim could not be verified.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-resume-military-aid-and-intelligence-support-to-ukraine-after-uk-pm-starmers-appeal-to-trump-8841299" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump</a> The assault occurred near Ab-e-Gum area of Mach Town when around six armed men opened fire on the Jaffar Express, leading to panic among passengers. As per initial reports, multiple travellers were wounded in the attack.
Rescue teams and security forces have reportedly reached the scene while an emergency relief train has been dispatched for assistance. ambulances and security forces were on their way to the site of the incident.&nbsp;
<h2>'Over 450 passengers held hostage'</h2>
In a statement claiming the assault, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) said gunmen bombed the railway track and took control of the train in remote Sibi district.
"Over 450 passengers onboard are being held hostage by gunmen," Muhammad Kashif, a senior railway government official in Quetta, the capital of the province, told AFP.
A senior police official from the area bordering Sibi, who asked not to be named because he was not authorised to speak to the media, said that "the train remains stuck just before a tunnel surrounded by mountains".
Notably, the area where the train is halted is a mountainous region, making it easier for militants to have hideouts and plan attacks. Notably, an emergency has been imposed in the surrounding hospitals, according to a senior police official.
Balochistan has recently witnessed an uptick in militant attacks.
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The railway department said in a statement that it has sent more trains to the site for rescue operations, adding that security forces were also on their way to the incident site. Meanwhile, Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif said that the train, comprising nine coaches, had around 500 passengers on board, according to a Dawn report. &ldquo;The train was stopped by armed men in Tunnel No 8. Efforts are being made to contact the passengers and staff,&rdquo; the controller said.
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Pakistan security sources said that terrorists attacked Jaffar Express at Bolan Pass, Dhadar, and targeted innocent civilians.&nbsp;
"Terrorists stopped the Jaffar Express in a tunnel and have taken the passengers hostage. Despite being extremely difficult and far from the road, security forces have cordoned off the area and started a clearance operation. Terrorists have taken innocent passengers, most of whom are women and children, hostage. Terrorists are also in touch with their facilitators abroad. The clearance operation will continue until the terrorists are eliminated," the sources said.&nbsp;
Targeting innocent passengers proves that these terrorists have no connection with Islam, Pakistan, and Balochistan, the security sources added.

South Asia | Pakistan: The railway department has sent more trains to the site for rescue, while security forces were also on their way. Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif said the train, comprising nine coaches, had around 500 passengers on board.

Gunmen attacked the Jaffar Express going from Quetta to Peshawar near Sibbi, Balochistan, in Pakistan on Tuesday, as per the latest inputs. The attack took place in Dhadar in Bolan. Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned terrorist organisation, has reportedly taken responsibility of the incident while claiming to have hijacked the train. The driver of the train has been killed in the firing, while multiple people are injured, said AK Shaheen, the Media Coordinator for Sibbi District. As per official sources, there are over 30 military personnel also travelling on the train. Sources from the ground said that three militants have been killed in the ongoing operation, though the claim could not be verified. Also read | US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump The assault occurred near Ab-e-Gum area of Mach Town when around six armed men opened fire on the Jaffar Express, leading to panic among passengers. As per initial reports, multiple travellers were wounded in the attack. Rescue teams and security forces have reportedly reached the scene while an emergency relief train has been dispatched for assistance. ambulances and security forces were on their way to the site of the incident. 'Over 450 passengers held hostage' In a statement claiming the assault, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) said gunmen bombed the railway track and took control of the train in remote Sibi district. "Over 450 passengers onboard are being held hostage by gunmen," Muhammad Kashif, a senior railway government official in Quetta, the capital of the province, told AFP. A senior police official from the area bordering Sibi, who asked not to be named because he was not authorised to speak to the media, said that "the train remains stuck just before a tunnel surrounded by mountains". Notably, the area where the train is halted is a mountainous region, making it easier for militants to have hideouts and plan attacks. Notably, an emergency has been imposed in the surrounding hospitals, according to a senior police official. Balochistan has recently witnessed an uptick in militant attacks. Also read | 'Race for security, not for war': Poland prepares citizens for Russian aggression with survival guides The railway department said in a statement that it has sent more trains to the site for rescue operations, adding that security forces were also on their way to the incident site. Meanwhile, Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif said that the train, comprising nine coaches, had around 500 passengers on board, according to a Dawn report. “The train was stopped by armed men in Tunnel No 8. Efforts are being made to contact the passengers and staff,” the controller said. Also read | ‘A country is involved’: Elon Musk claims ‘massive cyberattack’ after X goes down worldwide Pakistan security sources said that terrorists attacked Jaffar Express at Bolan Pass, Dhadar, and targeted innocent civilians. "Terrorists stopped the Jaffar Express in a tunnel and have taken the passengers hostage. Despite being extremely difficult and far from the road, security forces have cordoned off the area and started a clearance operation. Terrorists have taken innocent passengers, most of whom are women and children, hostage. Terrorists are also in touch with their facilitators abroad. The clearance operation will continue until the terrorists are eliminated," the sources said. Targeting innocent passengers proves that these terrorists have no connection with Islam, Pakistan, and Balochistan, the security sources added.

Pakistan train hijack: Gunmen hold 450 passengers hostage in Balochistan after firing at train

Three migrant barbers were shot dead by gunmen in Balochistan on Monday, where violence by separatist militants is rising. Watch this report for more details!

Pakistan: Gunmen kill three barbers in Balochistan Panjgur

The United States has issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 7), warning its citizens against travel to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, provinces in Pakistan. The travel advisory also cautioned on travel to the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.&nbsp;
The advisory read, &ldquo;Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk.&rdquo;
It cautions US citizens travelling to &ldquo;Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, which include the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism.&rdquo; It also warns people against travelling to the immediate vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control.
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&ldquo;Violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan. Terrorist attacks are frequent in Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which include the former FATA. Large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in numerous casualties, and small-scale attacks are frequent,&rdquo; the advisory read.
&ldquo;Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilians, as well as local military and police targets. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist attractions, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. Terrorists have targeted US diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past,&rdquo; it added.
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<h2>Advisory warns of terrorism in region</h2>
The advisory issued by the government classified Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the former FATA, and vicinity of the Line of Control as &ldquo;Level 4: Do Not Travel&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Extremist groups, including an active separatist movement, have conducted deadly terrorist attacks against civilians, religious minorities, government offices, and security forces,&rdquo; it warned about the Balochistan Province, where terrorist attacks are frequent.
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It also warned of &ldquo;active terrorist and insurgent groups routinely conduct attacks against civilians, non-governmental organizations, government offices, and security forces,&rdquo; which have targeted both government officials and civilians in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.
The government also cautioned of militant groups that are known to operate in the vicinity of the Line of Control, where both India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on their respective sides.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The advisory read, “Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk.”

The United States has issued an advisory on Friday (Mar 7), warning its citizens against travel to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, provinces in Pakistan. The travel advisory also cautioned on travel to the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. The advisory read, “Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk.” It cautions US citizens travelling to “Balochistan Province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, which include the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), due to terrorism.” It also warns people against travelling to the immediate vicinity of the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control. Also read | US-Iran nuclear talks: 'They aim at domination': Khamenei rejects US proposal “Violent extremist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan. Terrorist attacks are frequent in Balochistan province and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which include the former FATA. Large-scale terrorist attacks have resulted in numerous casualties, and small-scale attacks are frequent,” the advisory read. “Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilians, as well as local military and police targets. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist attractions, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. Terrorists have targeted US diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past,” it added. Also read | Another Hindu temple vandalised in US with anti-India graffiti ahead of 'Khalistani referendum' Advisory warns of terrorism in region The advisory issued by the government classified Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the former FATA, and vicinity of the Line of Control as “Level 4: Do Not Travel”. “Extremist groups, including an active separatist movement, have conducted deadly terrorist attacks against civilians, religious minorities, government offices, and security forces,” it warned about the Balochistan Province, where terrorist attacks are frequent. Also read | WhatsApp admin killed for removing member from group in Pakistan It also warned of “active terrorist and insurgent groups routinely conduct attacks against civilians, non-governmental organizations, government offices, and security forces,” which have targeted both government officials and civilians in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The government also cautioned of militant groups that are known to operate in the vicinity of the Line of Control, where both India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on their respective sides. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Do not travel’: US warns citizens against travelling to Pakistan’s key areas over ‘increased risk’

The Baloch insurgency that began in 1948 has time and again seen its rise and a literal fall. There have been a series of talks, surrenders, killings, and operations in and on Balochistan.
But 75 years on, what is causing the insurgency to survive and, albeit, turn far more deadlier?
The four rounds of insurgency in the past have been led by Baloch Sardar or Tribe heads, as the tribes were heading the insurgency and armed resistance.
Following the killing of Nawab Akbar Bugti in August 2006, that saw a renewed life in the armed resistance and the insurgency at its peak. It spread from Dera Bugti, Kohlu all the way to the coastal towns and belt of the Makran coastal highway.
After the PPP government came into power following the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in 2007, Pakistan opted for the policy of kill and dump in Balochistan, which further fuelled the insurgency till 2011.
In 2012, the insurgency came to an almost dead end after a series of deadly operations and surrenders to the Pakistani state by different factions of the armed militants.
The Baloch insurgents lost face in the local audience after having targeted local politicians from the area, which made people turn against them, leading to an almost elimination of the insurgency from 2013 to 2018.
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Sporadic, low-intensity attacks, however, did continue&mdash;from 2013 till 2018 there was a considerable lull in the armed Baloch resistance, but what the Pakistani security forces ignored and called &ldquo;breaking the back of the armed resistance&rdquo;, turned out to be their worst nightmare.
The modus operandi of the insurgency changed, there was a new head of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and a relatively new organization the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF).
The BLA and BLF continue to be listed as terrorist organisations, and as far as the BLA is concerned, it is not just Pakistan that calls it a terrorist organisation, but even the United States listed BLA as a Global Foreign Terrorist Organization in July 2019. Both organisations are spearheaded by middle-class, educated men. While BLA has had historical roots, BLF was founded in 2008. Bashir Zaib who was a student activist, now heads the BLA, Dr Allah Nazar, who is a doctor, heads the armed resistance group BLF. Their aim? Recruit the educated, students, and political class.
The Baloch resistance was arming itself during the lull period, in not just physical arms but with the ideology it had. The defensive and guerilla warfare changed into an offensive mode of insurgency. It was in 2018 when the suicide bombing unit of the BLA, Majeed Brigade struck big to make its presence felt.
Among the first of the attacks was the suicide attack on Chinese engineers in August 2018 in Dalbandin, which was carried out by Rehan Baluch, the son of Aslam Achu, who was the head of the Majeed Brigade. Achu was later killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan&rsquo;s Kandahar in December 2018, and he was replaced by Bashir Zaib.
This bombing signalled a fresh wave of violence, one that would not be conventional and be a headache to be dealt with, to quote an official, &ldquo;How do you stop a person who comes with the intention to die?&rdquo;
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The killing of Hayat Baloch, a student of Karachi University, at the hands of the FC, a paramilitary force, in August 2020 in his hometown of Turbat, gave a renewed life to the middleclass-led armed Baloch resistance.
Pakistan, on its part, blames interference from foreign elements and their funding to the group while turning a blind eye to a major problem that is homegrown.
The systematic repression of the Baloch youth is prompting the insurgency and armed resistance to survive.
Let's quote you some examples.
Sha&rsquo;ari Baloch a female suicide bomber of the 2022 Chinese Confucious Institute Bombing in Karachi, wasn&rsquo;t an ordinary person&mdash;she was an MPhil in Physics from the Karachi University. Sha&rsquo;ari being the first female suicide bomber gave a new life to the Majeed Brigade, where the Baloch youth looked up to her and sought inspiration from her.
Another such case is of Shahdad Mumtaz Baloch, a Baloch youth who had gone &ldquo;missing&rdquo; from his hometown in 2015. His family remained silent, and months later their son came back to them. But what happened to him in the end might hold lessons for others. On 1 May, 2020, Shahdad Mumtaz was killed in a shootout with the Pakistani military. To the surprise of many who knew him, an armed separatist group, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), claimed him as one of its members. Educated and socially active, Shahdad Mumtaz taught at a prestigious grammar school in his hometown of Turbat in the far south of the province and worked as a regional coordinator for the HRCP, mostly reporting on missing persons&mdash;a major issue in the region. In 2015, he joined the ranks of the missing but was among those lucky ones who, in the words of a local analyst, &ldquo;manage to convince their captors that they have been reformed and that their nationalist activism was a mistake&rdquo;. After his release in 2016, Shahdad Mumtaz joined Islamabad&rsquo;s Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) for a Masters programme.
But this doesn&rsquo;t stop at Sha&rsquo;ari Baloch or Shahdad Baloch, there have been others as well.
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Lets look at the case of Aftab Baloch Jattak, who was the Chairman of the Baloch Students Council demanding rights for the students of Balochistan from the Pakistani state only to later pick up arms and join the BLA in 2019. Aftab did his masters at Islamabad&rsquo;s Quaid e Azam University and, after passing out, was part of the BLA squad that attacked the Pakistan military camp in Bolan in May 2021, where he was killed in exchange of gunfire.
Mahal Baloch is another example of the educated youth of Balochistan going against the Pakistani state for her belief in the ideology. Mahal was the suicide bomber who struck at the FC camp in Balochistan&rsquo;s Bela in August 2024. She was an LLB student from the University of Turbat who was born and raised in Surbandar, 25 kilometres from Gwadar.
And off late, the latest symbol of resistance and being worshiped as an ideal is the case of Shah Fahad Baloch, the suicide bomber from BLA&rsquo;s elite Majeed Brigade who targeted Chinese nationals near Karachi airport in October 2024. Shah Fahad Baloch, hailing from Naushki in Balochistan, was also a student of law from the Lasbela University.
Pakistan has carried out proxy operations in Afghanistan and strikes on insurgent training camps in Iran, and it blames India for funding the Baloch insurgency. But the problem remains inward; it is the sense of deprivation and alienation among the Baloch youth. For decades, the elections in Balochistan has been flawed and marred by controversies, often electing those who are not the true representatives and are largely, if not completely, unknown to the people, which leads to protest by ethnic Baloch nationalists. All this has resulted in a lack of trust on the system among the youth. And when the youth lose trust, they go for other means&mdash;in this case, pick up arms against the Pakistani state.

South Asia | Pakistan: The Baloch resistance was arming itself during the lull period. The defensive and guerilla warfare changed into an offensive mode of insurgency. In 2018, the suicide bombing unit of BLA, Majeed Brigade, struck big.

The Baloch insurgency that began in 1948 has time and again seen its rise and a literal fall. There have been a series of talks, surrenders, killings, and operations in and on Balochistan. But 75 years on, what is causing the insurgency to survive and, albeit, turn far more deadlier? The four rounds of insurgency in the past have been led by Baloch Sardar or Tribe heads, as the tribes were heading the insurgency and armed resistance. Following the killing of Nawab Akbar Bugti in August 2006, that saw a renewed life in the armed resistance and the insurgency at its peak. It spread from Dera Bugti, Kohlu all the way to the coastal towns and belt of the Makran coastal highway. After the PPP government came into power following the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in 2007, Pakistan opted for the policy of kill and dump in Balochistan, which further fuelled the insurgency till 2011. In 2012, the insurgency came to an almost dead end after a series of deadly operations and surrenders to the Pakistani state by different factions of the armed militants. The Baloch insurgents lost face in the local audience after having targeted local politicians from the area, which made people turn against them, leading to an almost elimination of the insurgency from 2013 to 2018. Also Read | West Asia crisis: Hope new Lebanon president will help achieve 'stability,' says Israel Sporadic, low-intensity attacks, however, did continue—from 2013 till 2018 there was a considerable lull in the armed Baloch resistance, but what the Pakistani security forces ignored and called “breaking the back of the armed resistance”, turned out to be their worst nightmare. The modus operandi of the insurgency changed, there was a new head of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and a relatively new organization the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF). The BLA and BLF continue to be listed as terrorist organisations, and as far as the BLA is concerned, it is not just Pakistan that calls it a terrorist organisation, but even the United States listed BLA as a Global Foreign Terrorist Organization in July 2019. Both organisations are spearheaded by middle-class, educated men. While BLA has had historical roots, BLF was founded in 2008. Bashir Zaib who was a student activist, now heads the BLA, Dr Allah Nazar, who is a doctor, heads the armed resistance group BLF. Their aim? Recruit the educated, students, and political class. The Baloch resistance was arming itself during the lull period, in not just physical arms but with the ideology it had. The defensive and guerilla warfare changed into an offensive mode of insurgency. It was in 2018 when the suicide bombing unit of the BLA, Majeed Brigade struck big to make its presence felt. Among the first of the attacks was the suicide attack on Chinese engineers in August 2018 in Dalbandin, which was carried out by Rehan Baluch, the son of Aslam Achu, who was the head of the Majeed Brigade. Achu was later killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan’s Kandahar in December 2018, and he was replaced by Bashir Zaib. This bombing signalled a fresh wave of violence, one that would not be conventional and be a headache to be dealt with, to quote an official, “How do you stop a person who comes with the intention to die?” Also Read | SPADEX satellites moving closer in prep for docking process: ISRO The killing of Hayat Baloch, a student of Karachi University, at the hands of the FC, a paramilitary force, in August 2020 in his hometown of Turbat, gave a renewed life to the middleclass-led armed Baloch resistance. Pakistan, on its part, blames interference from foreign elements and their funding to the group while turning a blind eye to a major problem that is homegrown. The systematic repression of the Baloch youth is prompting the insurgency and armed resistance to survive. Let's quote you some examples. Sha’ari Baloch a female suicide bomber of the 2022 Chinese Confucious Institute Bombing in Karachi, wasn’t an ordinary person—she was an MPhil in Physics from the Karachi University. Sha’ari being the first female suicide bomber gave a new life to the Majeed Brigade, where the Baloch youth looked up to her and sought inspiration from her. Another such case is of Shahdad Mumtaz Baloch, a Baloch youth who had gone “missing” from his hometown in 2015. His family remained silent, and months later their son came back to them. But what happened to him in the end might hold lessons for others. On 1 May, 2020, Shahdad Mumtaz was killed in a shootout with the Pakistani military. To the surprise of many who knew him, an armed separatist group, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), claimed him as one of its members. Educated and socially active, Shahdad Mumtaz taught at a prestigious grammar school in his hometown of Turbat in the far south of the province and worked as a regional coordinator for the HRCP, mostly reporting on missing persons—a major issue in the region. In 2015, he joined the ranks of the missing but was among those lucky ones who, in the words of a local analyst, “manage to convince their captors that they have been reformed and that their nationalist activism was a mistake”. After his release in 2016, Shahdad Mumtaz joined Islamabad’s Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) for a Masters programme. But this doesn’t stop at Sha’ari Baloch or Shahdad Baloch, there have been others as well. Also Read | Potentially deadly synthetic opioids disguised as medicines: US agency warns of risk from online pharmacies Lets look at the case of Aftab Baloch Jattak, who was the Chairman of the Baloch Students Council demanding rights for the students of Balochistan from the Pakistani state only to later pick up arms and join the BLA in 2019. Aftab did his masters at Islamabad’s Quaid e Azam University and, after passing out, was part of the BLA squad that attacked the Pakistan military camp in Bolan in May 2021, where he was killed in exchange of gunfire. Mahal Baloch is another example of the educated youth of Balochistan going against the Pakistani state for her belief in the ideology. Mahal was the suicide bomber who struck at the FC camp in Balochistan’s Bela in August 2024. She was an LLB student from the University of Turbat who was born and raised in Surbandar, 25 kilometres from Gwadar. And off late, the latest symbol of resistance and being worshiped as an ideal is the case of Shah Fahad Baloch, the suicide bomber from BLA’s elite Majeed Brigade who targeted Chinese nationals near Karachi airport in October 2024. Shah Fahad Baloch, hailing from Naushki in Balochistan, was also a student of law from the Lasbela University. Pakistan has carried out proxy operations in Afghanistan and strikes on insurgent training camps in Iran, and it blames India for funding the Baloch insurgency. But the problem remains inward; it is the sense of deprivation and alienation among the Baloch youth. For decades, the elections in Balochistan has been flawed and marred by controversies, often electing those who are not the true representatives and are largely, if not completely, unknown to the people, which leads to protest by ethnic Baloch nationalists. All this has resulted in a lack of trust on the system among the youth. And when the youth lose trust, they go for other means—in this case, pick up arms against the Pakistani state.

Why is Baloch insurgency in Pakistan a headache for the establishment, and why has it survived for decades?

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 seizes civilian installations, gunfight with para forces ongoing

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

A bomb blast orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) targeted a passenger bus in Balochistan, Pakistan, leaving five people dead and 32 others injured.

Pakistan bus attack: bus carrying paramilitary troops targeted in Balochistan

Balochistan liberation army targets paramilitary bus in deadly attack

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 on Sunday announced an expansion in intelligence-based operations across the restive Balochistan province to tackle the escalating threat of militancy. Watch this report for more details!

Pakistan Expands Intelligence-Based Operations Across Balochistan | GRAVITAS

SCO Summit in Pakistan is on the 15th and 16th of October the country is in the group of security. The series of Terror attacks targeting foreign Nationals and unrest created by the political opposition have put the government on the edge.

Pakistan Blames 'Neighbouring Country' For Attempted Disruption

At least 20 miners were killed and at least seven injured after armed men stormed a small private coal mine in southwest Pakistan Friday morning (Oct 11). The attack in Balochistan province mainly targeted people from Pashtun-speaking areas of the province.

So far no group has claimed responsibility for the attack but media sources said the blame was likely to fall on the Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP.

The attackers allegedly fired rockets and threw grenades at the mine as well.

Humayun Khan, the police station house officer for the town, located east of the city of Quetta, said in a statement, “A group of armed men attacked the Junaid Coal company mines in the Duki area in the wee hours using heavy weapons.”

“We have received 20 bodies and six injured so far at the district hospital,” said Johar Khan Shadizai, a doctor in Duki.

Earlier on Monday (Oct 7), militant group Baloch Liberation Army said it had carried out an attack on Chinese nationals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiunOP8tIWJAxUIafUHHUrKBr4QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/militant-attacks-in-paks-balochistan-death-toll-over-60-cm-issues-strong-warning-to-terrorists-753441" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/militant-attacks-in-paks-balochistan-death-toll-over-60-cm-issues-strong-warning-to-terrorists-753441&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiunOP8tIWJAxUIafUHHUrKBr4QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Militant attacks in Pak`s Balochistan: Death toll over 70, CM issues strong warning to terrorists</a>

Pakistan hosts thousands of Chinese nationals who are employed in various projects being built under Beijing’s multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative.

On Wednesday (Oct 9), gunmen in the area opened fire on a vehicle carrying police officers, killing at least two officers and injuring two others.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiunOP8tIWJAxUIafUHHUrKBr4QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-hit-hard-as-balochistan-separatists-kill-its-50-members-753580" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-hit-hard-as-balochistan-separatists-kill-its-50-members-753580&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiunOP8tIWJAxUIafUHHUrKBr4QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Pakistan Army hit hard as Balochistan separatists kill its 50 members</a>

The Friday attack came days ahead of a key Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit being held in capital Islamabad next week. Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is also due to visit the country to hold multilateral summits.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, closely linked to Afghanistan’s Taliban, has been outlawed in Pakistan and is believed to be behind a series of deadly attacks across the South Asian country in recent months.

At least 20 miners were killed and at least seven injured after armed men stormed a small private coal mine in southwest Pakistan Friday morning (Oct 11). The attack in Balochistan province mainly targeted people from Pashtun-speaking areas of the province.

At least 20 miners were killed and at least seven injured after armed men stormed a small private coal mine in southwest Pakistan Friday morning (Oct 11). The attack in Balochistan province mainly targeted people from Pashtun-speaking areas of the province. So far no group has claimed responsibility for the attack but media sources said the blame was likely to fall on the Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP. The attackers allegedly fired rockets and threw grenades at the mine as well. Humayun Khan, the police station house officer for the town, located east of the city of Quetta, said in a statement, “A group of armed men attacked the Junaid Coal company mines in the Duki area in the wee hours using heavy weapons.” “We have received 20 bodies and six injured so far at the district hospital,” said Johar Khan Shadizai, a doctor in Duki. Earlier on Monday (Oct 7), militant group Baloch Liberation Army said it had carried out an attack on Chinese nationals. Also read: Militant attacks in Pak`s Balochistan: Death toll over 70, CM issues strong warning to terrorists Pakistan hosts thousands of Chinese nationals who are employed in various projects being built under Beijing’s multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative. On Wednesday (Oct 9), gunmen in the area opened fire on a vehicle carrying police officers, killing at least two officers and injuring two others. Also read: Pakistan Army hit hard as Balochistan separatists kill its 50 members The Friday attack came days ahead of a key Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit being held in capital Islamabad next week. Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is also due to visit the country to hold multilateral summits. Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, closely linked to Afghanistan’s Taliban, has been outlawed in Pakistan and is believed to be behind a series of deadly attacks across the South Asian country in recent months.

Pakistan: 20 dead as armed men storm private coal mine in Balochistan

In Pakistan, at least 20 miners were killed after armed men stormed a small private coal mine in Balochistan Friday (Oct 11). The attack in Balochistan province mainly targeted people from Pashtun-speaking areas of the province.

Pakistan: Twenty Coal Miners Killed in Balochistan

In Pakistan at least 20 miners were killed after armed men stormed a small private coal mine in southwest Pakistan Friday morning (Oct 11). The attack in Balochistan province mainly targeted people from Pashtun-speaking areas of the province.

Pakistan: Armed Men Target Miners In Pakistan's Balochistan

A man accused of committing blasphemy was killed by a police officer while in custody in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province on Thursday, authorities said.

Pakistani Senator vows to support killer policeman

Pakistan police officer fatally shoots blasphemy accused in custody

#Gravitas | Following a surge in terror attacks, the Pakistani government has granted the military "special" powers, empowering security forces to preemptively detain individuals suspected of posing a threat to national security. These unchecked powers seriously undermine human rights and the rule of law. As a result, the troubled region of Balochistan is virtually under military rule.

Balochistan Under Virtual Military Rule |  Pak Security Forces Armed With Special Powers

Pakistani government has granted special powers to the armed forces and provincial government in Balochistan to deal with the recent surge in violent attacks. These changes come amid growing unrest and anger against the government over force disappearances of Baloch people.

Balochistan protests: Women leading from the front

Akhtar Mengal, the chief of the eponymous Balochistan National Party (BNP-M), resigned on Tuesday from the National Assembly, citing frustration and lack of freedom in parliament and the apathy of lawmakers towards insecurity faced by the people of Balochistan.

BNP-M Chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal resigns over Balochistan situation

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