For decades, insurgency and unrest have plagued Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest and most resource-rich province. Despite its abundance of minerals and resources, it remains the country’s poorest province in terms of development and infrastructure. With vast reserves of gas, coal, and minerals, Balochistan continues to face economic marginalization and political instability. The ongoing conflict in Balochistan is not a recent phenomenon but rather the culmination of historical grievances, political maneuvering, socioeconomic deprivation, and a deep sense of alienation among the Baloch people.

Historically, the roots of the Balochistan insurgency trace back to the contentious accession of Kalat State to Pakistan in 1948. Opinions were divided, with some factions supporting integration into Pakistan while others opposed it. Following the controversial accession, Prince Karim Khan of Kalat led the first armed rebellion, setting the stage for subsequent insurgencies in 1958, 1963–69, and 1973–77. With the formation of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the conflict escalated into a guerrilla war, characterized by hit-and-run tactics.

Despite being home to some of Pakistan’s most valuable natural resources, Balochistan remains its poorest province. The Sui gas field, discovered in 1952, has powered Pakistan’s industries and households for decades, yet the local Baloch population continues........

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