Comprehensive military operation approved against separatist groups in Balochistan

Pakistan’s Apex Committee has authorized a “comprehensive military operation” targeting separatist groups in Balochistan, following a series of deadly attacks, including a suicide bombing at Quetta Railway Station that resulted in numerous soldier casualties.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan in Islamabad, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The session was attended by federal ministers, provincial chief ministers, and Army Chief General Asim Munir.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office indicated that the operation would focus on groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), its Majeed Brigade, the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and the Baloch Raaji Ajoi Sangar (BRAS). These groups have been accused of undermining Pakistan’s stability and hindering economic development, allegedly acting “on behalf of hostile external powers.”

This announcement follows a series of high-profile attacks in Balochistan, including a suicide attack by a BLA member on 9 November at the Quetta Railway Station, which killed 31 non-commissioned officers of the Pakistan Army and wounded over 60 individuals.

In the previous week, the BLA claimed responsibility for an assault on a military camp in Kalat, asserting that it killed 29 soldiers and seized weapons, although the military confirmed only eight fatalities and 17 injuries.

BRAS, a coalition of Baloch separatist groups, has escalated its operations as well. Over the past fortnight, it has taken responsibility for 45 coordinated attacks across Balochistan, targeting military camps, highways, and infrastructure, leading to significant casualties.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed his concerns regarding the rise in violence, noting, “Terrorism was largely controlled a few years ago, but recent attacks have drawn international criticism toward Pakistan.”

The committee reviewed the country’s security situation, discussing strategies to combat terrorism, sub-nationalism, religious extremism, and the crime-terror nexus. Participants highlighted the significance of countering disinformation campaigns and enhancing the National Counter Terrorism Authority, with plans to establish National and Provincial Intelligence Fusion and Threat Assessment Centres.

Amid ongoing military operations, internet services remain suspended in large parts of Balochistan. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority confirmed the suspension, stating it was mandated by the Ministry of Interior due to security concerns.

Rights organizations have condemned the internet blackout, arguing that it restricts the flow of information during a time when reports of human rights violations in Balochistan are gaining international attention.

Balochistan has been embroiled in conflict for over two decades, with Pakistan frequently resorting to military operations to quell insurgent activities. Despite the heavy toll of thousands of deaths and widespread enforced disappearances, military operations have yet to eradicate the insurgency.

Analysts contend that the conflict is deeply rooted in political and economic grievances, including disputes over natural resources and calls for increased autonomy. They assert that without addressing these underlying issues, efforts to secure lasting peace in the region are unlikely to bear fruit.