AMIDST the rapidly evolving geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East and South Asia, Balochistan has once again emerged as a critical flashpoint, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive and integrated counterterrorism policy.

Recent reports indicating Israel’s growing involvement and alleged support for the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) have only deepened Pakistan’s national security concerns, demanding immediate and strategic responses from the state. Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan, has long been mired in decades of insurgency, compounded by so-called separatist ambitions and has become a playground for anti-state forces. Once a land of hope, progress and economic vitality under the flagship CPEC project, the province has descended into turmoil due to insurgents and separatist unrest—posing a serious threat to national security, the armed forces and policymakers of Pakistan.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the insurgent group that is widely acclaimed within the nation as striving for the rights of Baloch people have been actively involved in conducting large scale deadly attacks on Pakistan Army and Rangers, thereby killing dozens of security personnel. Moreover, mass casualty assaults have been further carried out towards civilians and civilian installations evident........

© Pakistan Observer