The Baloch National Movement, which is long-rooted in calls for political autonomy, cultural recognition, and equitable development, is re-emerging with renewed visibility on the international stage. But this resurgence is no longer purely internal. External forces, most notably Israel, are beginning to engage with Baloch political narratives in ways that raise important questions.

As Iran’s regional position grows more precarious, actors such as Israel are recalibrating their strategies. In this process, they are seeking influence through historically marginalized groups at Iran’s periphery. Among them are the Baloch people.

This article explores the growing ties between the Baloch struggle and Israel’s regional goals. It raises critical questions about agency, morality, and the risks of foreign alignments for the credibility and direction of the movement.

The Baloch population is over 56 million, which is distributed across Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. In both Iran and Pakistan, Baloch territories are rich in natural resources but plagued by poverty, political exclusion, and cultural suppression.

In Iran, most Baloch live in the Sistan and Baluchestan provinces. This region has some of the country’s worst socioeconomic indicators. Although armed resistance in Iran has been sporadic, this region is heavily securitized, and advocacy for local rights has taken various forms. In recent years, Baloch diaspora organizations have become more vocal in seeking international engagement.  

Groups like the Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) promote a vision of a democratic, secular, and independent Balochistan. They emphasize human rights and political participation, though their strategies and affiliations remain a topic of debate. One of the most consequential alignments emerging today is with Israel.

Since the 1979 Iranian Revolution, Israel and Iran have maintained an adversarial........

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