Deadly Clashes: Pakistan Military Claims 92 Militants Killed in Balochistan

In a significant escalation of violence in Balochistan, Pakistan's military reported the deaths of 92 militants following coordinated attacks in the region. The military's operations aim to combat an ongoing ethnic insurgency that has plagued the area for decades.

Pakistan's military has announced the killing of 92 militants in Balochistan, coinciding with a series of coordinated attacks that resulted in the deaths of civilians and security personnel. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for these attacks, while the military has accused India of providing support to the militants. The situation reflects the ongoing ethnic insurgency in the region, which has been a source of tension since shortly after Pakistan's independence.

Pakistan's military says it has killed at least 92 militants blamed for deadly coordinated attacks in the south-western Balochistan province. The military detailed that these attacks resulted in the deaths of 15 security service personnel and 18 civilians. Notably, the military accused India of supporting the militants, an assertion that has been categorically denied by New Delhi.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a prominent rebel group, has claimed responsibility for the attacks, alleging that dozens of soldiers lost their lives during the clashes. These claims from both the military and the BLA remain unverified by independent sources. The region is grappling with one of the deadliest violence episodes in recent memory, marked by a long-standing battle against ethnic insurgency.

The military responded with extensive 'clearance' operations throughout Balochistan, stating that they successfully thwarted the 'evil design' of the rebels. Key administrative buildings in Quetta have been sealed off while mobile phone services and train operations were suspended as precautionary measures.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the military's efforts and vowed to continue the fight against terrorism until its complete eradication. Earlier that day, militants targeted numerous cities and towns, aiming at police and paramilitary installations as well as government facilities.

The BLA argues that the federal government exploits Balochistan’s rich natural resources without benefiting local communities. Local activists have also raised concerns about enforced disappearances allegedly involving Pakistani security forces, a claim that the government denies.

Resistance against the Pakistani government, led by insurgents pushing for Baloch autonomy, dates back to 1948, the year following Pakistan's independence. The province of Balochistan, which shares borders with Iran and Afghanistan, boasts significant mineral wealth and a strategic location along the Arabian Sea.

Despite covering nearly 44% of Pakistan's land area, Balochistan is home to only about 5% of its population, making it the country’s least populated province.