A devastating attack on a Pakistani military convoy in Balochistan has resulted in the deaths of at least 90 Pakistani soldiers, with many others critically injured. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the assault, marking one of the deadliest attacks on the Pakistani military in recent years.
In This Article:
The Attack: A Coordinated Strike
What Happened?
According to reports, the attack occurred on a remote highway between Quetta and Taftan, near Noshki. A car packed with explosives crashed into a military transport bus carrying Pakistani army personnel. The impact of the explosion caused massive casualties and set the convoy ablaze.
Eyewitnesses described hearing multiple explosions and heavy gunfire as BLA militants engaged with the military in a prolonged firefight after the initial blast. The insurgents reportedly used rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and automatic weapons, targeting any survivors attempting to escape.
BLA’s Claim of Responsibility
Shortly after the attack, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) released a video claiming responsibility. The footage, shared on social media, showed insurgents ambushing the convoy and celebrating their successful operation.
A BLA spokesperson stated,
“This attack is a response to Pakistan’s occupation of Balochistan and the oppression of our people. The enemy will continue to face heavy losses until Balochistan is free.”
Casualties and Government Response
- 90 Pakistani army personnel were confirmed dead.
- Over 40 others critically injured, many battling for their lives.
- Military vehicles destroyed, hampering rescue operations.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism and vowing retaliation. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistani military, confirmed that a counter-operation is underway.
“Pakistan’s security forces will eliminate the terrorist elements behind this cowardly attack,” an ISPR statement read.
Who Are the Baloch Insurgents?
The Long-Running Conflict
Balochistan has been a center of insurgency for decades, with separatist groups like the BLA fighting for independence. The region is rich in natural resources but remains one of the most underdeveloped parts of Pakistan. Many Baloch nationalists accuse the Pakistani government and military of exploitation and human rights violations.
Key Factors Behind the Insurgency
- Resource Exploitation: Balochistan’s gas and mineral wealth benefit Pakistan but not the local population.
- Human Rights Abuses: Reports of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings fuel local resentment.
- China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): Many Baloch separatists see CPEC as a colonial project that sidelines local interests.
Eyewitness Accounts & Survivor Testimonies
Ahmed Rehman, a local shopkeeper near the attack site, recalled:
“I was closing my shop when I heard a loud explosion. The sky turned red with fire. Then there was heavy gunfire. We were terrified and ran for our lives.”
A survivor, Captain Asif Malik, who was onboard one of the military vehicles, described the horror:
“There was chaos. Smoke everywhere, people screaming. Many of my comrades didn’t make it.”
Pakistan’s Counter-Insurgency Strategy: Success or Failure?
Despite Pakistan’s military offensives and intelligence operations, attacks in Balochistan persist. Critics argue that the government’s hardline approach has only escalated tensions.
Pakistan’s Counter-Strategies Include:
Military Operations: Airstrikes and ground offensives against insurgent hideouts.
Security Buildup: Increased army presence in Balochistan.
Economic Investments: Promises of infrastructure and development through CPEC.
Why Is It Failing?
Lack of Political Dialogue: No serious negotiations with Baloch separatist leaders.
Human Rights Violations: Reports of military excesses alienate the local population.
Foreign Interests: Allegations of Indian and Afghan support for Baloch insurgents.
International Reactions
The attack has drawn reactions from global powers.
- India: While New Delhi has not officially commented, Pakistani officials have accused India of supporting Baloch militants.
- China: Concerned over CPEC, which passes through Balochistan. Security risks threaten billions in investment.
- United Nations: Called for dialogue and restraint to prevent further escalation.
Moving Ahead: A Conflict Without an End?
This latest attack highlights the fragility of peace in Balochistan. As insurgency and military responses escalate, the region risks further instability.
Key Takeaways:
- The Pakistani military faces a resilient insurgency despite years of operations.
- BLA’s increasing sophistication in attacks signals a worsening conflict.
- A political solution may be the only way to prevent future bloodshed.
Pakistan must decide: Continue its military crackdown or open the door for negotiations?
By – Nikita
