New Delhi: Pakistan has experienced a surge in terror attacks, shaking the nation and highlighting ongoing security issues in recent months. The latest data from Islamabads Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) reveals a troubling trend. Last month alone saw 59 terror attacks across Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of 84 individuals.The Balochistan region, known for its persistent insurgency, has been particularly affected. Militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) were responsible for the deaths of nearly 40 people in the Musakhail and Qalat districts. The violence has not abated, with further attacks reported.Baloch militants target security patrols, kill threeA recent United Nations Department of Safety and Security report details a significant incident where the United Baloch Army (UBA) targeted a security patrol in the Nemoragh area of Qalat district. This attack led to the deaths of three security personnel. In another troubling development, the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) executed a grenade attack on a security checkpoint in the Turbat district, causing casualties among the security forces. The precise number of deaths and injuries remains unconfirmed by Pakistani authorities.BLAs growing capabilities and local grievancesThe PIPS report highlights the BLAs increasing sophistication and operational coordination. The groups use of advanced weaponry and strategic attacks marks a worrying escalation in their capabilities. Balochistan, despite its rich resources, remains economically underdeveloped, exacerbating local grievances and contributing to the ongoing conflict.Notably, the BLA has adopted new tactics, such as targeting Punjabis on highways by checking identity cards. This development could further strain relations between the Balochistan province and the central government, intensifying the regions instability.Khyber Pakhtunkhwas security challengesThe Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) region has also faced a significant rise in terror-related violence. On Sunday, unidentified terrorists killed a police officer in the Mandan area. The same day, an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by unknown militants exploded in the Salarzai area, killing one person and injuring two others.According to a Dawn report, KP experienced 29 terrorist attacks last month, resulting in 25 deaths and 80 injuries. The attacks were carried out by various extremist groups, including the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group, Lashkar-i-Islam and the Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) among others.
