By Khalid Khan
Quetta: In a significant development, the Pakistan military has expanded its list of districts targeted for counterterrorism operations, with 18 districts across Balochistan, including Duki, Hernai, Ziarat, Turbat, Kalat, and Panjgur, now under direct military scrutiny. This move comes as security forces step up efforts to combat the growing menace of terrorism and insurgency in the province.
Balochistan, long plagued by ethnic insurgencies and militant groups, has seen a troubling resurgence of violence in recent months. The addition of these districts to the military operation list highlights the escalating security concerns. The region has been the site of numerous tragic incidents, with terrorists targeting both military and civilian installations, including a recent attack on a Frontier Corps convoy in Duki. This attack resulted in the deaths of several personnel and underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the region.
In Hernai, a district once known for its relative peace, a deadly bomb blast earlier this year killed at least 15 people, including soldiers and civilians. The blast was attributed to a local terrorist group linked to separatist movements and foreign-backed militants. Similarly, in Ziarat, a popular tourist destination, a bombing targeting a military checkpoint left several soldiers injured last year, further highlighting the province’s vulnerability to terrorist acts.
Turbat, known for its strategic location along the Pak-Iran border, has become another hotspot for militant activity. In 2023, the area witnessed a series of attacks by Baloch separatist groups that targeted security posts, leading to casualties among both the military and law enforcement.
Kalat and Panjgur, areas that have historically been at the epicenter of Baloch nationalist insurgencies, have seen increasing attacks by militants seeking to disrupt the state’s authority in the region. The situation in these areas is particularly concerning, as terror networks continue to operate with impunity, fueled by a combination of local grievances and external support.
According to recent reports, these attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a broader, coordinated effort by insurgent groups to destabilize Balochistan and challenge the state’s control over its restive regions. The provincial government and military officials have acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that these operations are essential to neutralizing terrorist cells and restoring peace in the region.
The expansion of military operations into these 18 districts is part of a larger strategy to curb terrorism, reduce insurgent activity, and protect both the civilian population and security forces from militant attacks. However, with Balochistan’s rugged terrain and porous borders, the challenges in eliminating these threats are significant. The government has called for enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries, particularly Iran and Afghanistan, to prevent cross-border militant movements and arms smuggling.
As Balochistan continues to grapple with the dual threats of terrorism and insurgency, the people of these 18 districts, who have long endured the devastating impact of violence, hope that the latest military push will bring about lasting peace and security. However, the road ahead remains uncertain, as the history of militancy in the province shows no quick solutions to these deeply rooted issues.