1 week Ago By Atle Hetland
The security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan is deteriorating rapidly. Terror attacks targeting civilians and security forces have become almost routine. The banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is behind most attacks in KP, while separatist groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) are active in Balochistan.
According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, 2024 was the deadliest year in a decade, with 856 terror incidents resulting in the deaths of 476 security personnel and hundreds of civilians. An alarming 96% of these attacks occurred in KP and Balochistan. After the Taliban took control of Kabul in August 2021, hopes were high that peace would follow in Pakistan.
Talks were held with the TTP, and dozens of commanders were released. Instead of peace, this led to a surge in violence, especially in southern KP and tribal districts. TTP is believed to operate from safe havens in Afghanistan, launching cross-border attacks with ease.
Shots Fired In southern KP, security personnel and government officials are regularly targeted, while wealthy families face extortion. In Balochistan, separatist violence has surged, with deadly attacks like the hostage-taking on the Jaffar Express by the BLA. Although the hostages were eventually freed, 26 lives were lost.
Pakistan now ranks second in the Global Terrorism Index 2025. It is critical for the government to review its counter-terrorism policies and fully implement the National Action Plan. Long-term peace will only come through economic stability, inclusive institutions, and genuine democratic representation.
MUHAMMAD ZAFAR MEHSUD, Peshawar. Tags: worsening security.
