On March 11, 2025, separatists from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express near the Bolan Pass in Sibi, Balochistan. According to the Pakistan government, it took security forces two days to regain control of the area. The incident reverberated not only across Pakistan but also internationally. Indian media quickly seized on the Balochistan issue, giving it significant attention. Just days later, on March 16, the BLA carried out a suicide attack in Noshki, Balochistan, targeting buses carrying Pakistan Army personnel. Several attacks have occurred since.

These assaults are part of a broader wave of violence in the region. In 2024, separatist groups carried out 938 attacks across nearly all areas of Balochistan. According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, March 2025 saw 105 attacks in Pakistan — the highest monthly tally in 11 years. On March 27, Baloch Raaji Aajaoi Sangar (BRAS), claimed responsibility for 72 attacks, signaling continued resistance against Pakistani authorities. Journalist Bahot Baloch said, “There is an uptick in attacks by separatists, and almost all major groups seem to be targeting Pakistani interests as per their capacity.”

Balochistan has witnessed five phases of insurgency, beginning shortly after Pakistan annexed the region on........

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