A deadly attack in Noshki targeted a Pak Army convoy, killing 5 people, including 3 FC soldiers. BLA claimed responsibility, escalating regional tensions.
Deadly Noshki Attack: New Challenge for Pak Army
Three members of Pakistan’s Frontier Corps (FC) were among the five individuals killed in a devastating explosion that occurred in Noshki, Balochistan, on March 16, 2025. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, was responsible for the incident, which increased regional security worries. A Pakistan Army convoy headed for the Iranian border town of Taftan was hit by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED). Numerous buses within the convoy experienced damage, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.
This attack comes just days after BLA insurgents hijacked a passenger train with nearly 440 people onboard, highlighting the growing threat of militant activities in Balochistan. The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by the Pakistan Army, as separatist groups continue to target military forces and infrastructure. In response, the Pakistan Army and law enforcement agencies have launched search and clearance operations to eliminate insurgent threats.
The attack raises questions about regional stability and cross-border militancy because of Noshki’s closeness to the Iranian border. To stop similar attacks, security experts have urged the Pakistani government to improve intelligence operations, bolster border security, and bolster counterterrorism measures. Pakistan must put in place a comprehensive plan that combines economic growth, military action, and information gathering to quell insurgency and bring peace back to the region to guarantee long-term stability in Balochistan.
Attack in Noshki:
According to reports, the attack happened near Rakhshan Mill on the RCD Highway in Noshki. A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) was used to hit one of the buses in the convoy.
- The explosion resulted in five deaths and over 30 injuries.
- Among the deceased, three were FC soldiers.
- One of the buses was destroyed due to the explosion.
Shortly after the attack, BLA insurgents surrounded another bus and engaged in a gun battle with the security forces. The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack and, in a statement, alleged that 90 Pakistani soldiers were killed a claim that Pakistani authorities have not confirmed.
BLA’s Role and Past Attacks:
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is a militant separatist group that has been active in Balochistan for years. The group demands independence for Balochistan and often targets Pakistani security forces and infrastructure.
Major BLA Attacks in Recent Years:
- March 12, 2025: BLA hijacked Jaffar Express, a passenger train carrying 440 people. The attack killed 26 people, including off-duty soldiers.
- January 2024: BLA carried out a suicide bombing in Quetta, killing several security personnel.
- April 2022: BLA attacked the Chinese Confucius Institute in Karachi, killing three Chinese nationals.
- 2019: Attack on the Pearl Continental Hotel in Gwadar, targeting Chinese workers.
BLA’s attacks mainly focus on Pakistani military personnel, Chinese projects (such as CPEC), and government installations.
Impact on Regional Stability:
Balochistan is a vital region for regional security because of its advantageous location, which borders both Iran and Afghanistan. Pakistan is not the only country affected by the province’s insecurity; neighbouring nations are also concerned. Attacks on infrastructure and military convoys cause problems for law enforcement and interfere with security operations. Frequent militant actions may also discourage foreign investment and cause economic initiatives, such as those associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), to be delayed.
Pakistan must take a comprehensive strategy to tackle these challenges, which includes resolving the underlying issues that are causing the insurgency, bolstering intelligence, and taking military action.
Pak Army’s Response:
The Pakistan Army, alongside the Frontier Corps (FC) and law enforcement agencies, has been actively fighting insurgent groups like the BLA and TTP (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan).
Following the Noshki attack, security forces:
- Launched a search operation to locate and eliminate the attackers.
- Increased security in Balochistan, especially along major highways and cities.
- Carried out airstrikes on suspected militant hideouts.
A spokesperson for the Pakistan Army condemned the attack and vowed to eliminate terrorist threats.
Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated:
“The Pakistan Army is committed to ensuring the safety of its people and will not allow any terrorist group to destabilise our country. We will respond with full force.”
Growing Security Challenges for Pakistan:
Pakistan has faced rising security threats in recent years, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Key Security Concerns:
- Insurgent Attacks: Groups like BLA and TTP continue to target security forces and government facilities.
- Cross-Border Militancy: Terrorist groups often operate near the Afghan and Iranian borders, making it difficult to eliminate them.
- Chinese Investments Under Threat: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is frequently targeted, affecting economic growth.
- Growing Political Instability: Security challenges add to Pakistan’s internal political and economic issues. Balochistan remains the most affected region, as separatist groups believe they are being economically and politically marginalized.
International Reactions:
The Noshki attack has drawn international attention, with global leaders condemning terrorism.
- China: Urged Pakistan to ensure the safety of Chinese workers in Balochistan.
- United States: Expressed concern over growing insurgent activities in the region.
- Iran: Called for regional cooperation to combat terrorism. Pakistan’s Foreign Office also contacted Iran and Afghanistan to discuss cross-border security measures.
Impact on Pakistan’s Security Strategy:
The Pakistan Army is now focusing on new strategies for counter-insurgency:
- Enhanced Intelligence Operations: Using advanced surveillance to track militant activities.
- Improved Border Security: Strengthening patrols along the Afghanistan and Iran borders.
- Economic Development in Balochistan: Investing in local infrastructure to reduce support for insurgents.
- Strengthened Military Response: Conducting more counterterrorism operations. Despite challenges, the Pak Army remains determined to defeat militant groups and protect the country.
Conclusion:
The deadly attack in Noshki is a stark reminder of the security threats Pakistan continues to face. The Pak Army and law enforcement agencies are actively working to neutralize insurgents and maintain peace. With rising regional tensions, Pakistan must adopt a multi-faceted strategy that includes military action, intelligence gathering, and economic development. While terrorist attacks may continue, Pakistan’s strong military response and international support can help ensure long-term stability. The sacrifice of the soldiers in Noshki reflects the ongoing battle against terrorism, and the Pak Army’s commitment to national security remains unwavering.
