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'Organised factory of hate': India tears into Pakistan's 'Fitna al Hindustan' campaign at UN

India has strongly condemned Pakistan's alleged state-sponsored propaganda campaign at the United Nations, accusing Islamabad of labeling militant groups as 'Fitna al Hindustan' to deflect blame. New Delhi highlighted Pakistan's internal challenges and military's influence, while also holding it responsible for civilian casualties in Afghanistan due to cross-border military operations.

27 terrorists killed in North Waziristan IBOs: ISPR

Security forces killed 27 terrorists in operations conducted in the Miranshah area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district over the past 72 hours, the military’s media affairs wing said on Sunday. “In continuation of a series of intelligence-based operations, security Forces engaged multiple khawarij locations in the general area Miranshah, North Waziristan District,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement. It added that after “fierce exchanges of fire” 27 terrorists belonging to “India-sponsored Fitna al Khawarij were sent to hell”. Fitna al Khawarij is a term that the state uses for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). ISPR said weapons and ammunition were found in the possession of the slain terrorists, who remained “actively involved in numerous terrorist activities and target killing of innocent civilians”. “By neutralising this group of killed khawarij, the heinous act of target killing of prominent figure Shaheed Malik Saifullah Dawar in Miranshah has been avenged, and perpetrators have been brought to justice,” the statement read. It added that sanitisation operations were ongoing to eliminate holed up terrorists from these areas, “as a relentless counter-terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and -supported terrorism from the country”. Tribal elder Dawar’s killing outside his residence in early May had led to an intense gun battle between members of the Darpa Khel tribe and terrorists in Miranshah. Both sides reportedly used automatic weapons, and the firefight lasted for several hours. Sources said that a day before the killing, suspected militants had allegedly occupied a local mosque, but Saifullah, along with other tribal elders, had intervened and forced them to vacate the premises. On May 1, a large group of miscreants reportedly returned to the area, called Saifullah out of his house and opened fire on him, killing him on the spot, the sources had added. More to follow

6 terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation in Balochistan's Panjgur: ISPR

Security forces killed six terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan’s Panjgur district, the military’s media affairs wing said on Friday. In a statement, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that on the night of June 3/4, security forces conducted an IBO on the reported presence of terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan. The state has designated Balochistan-based terrorist groups as Fitna al Hindustan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan. “During the conduct of [the] operation, own forces effectively engaged multiple terrorist locations, and after intense fire exchanges, six Indian sponsored terrorists were sent to hell,” it said. “Weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices and [a] vehicle have also been recovered from the killed Indian-sponsored terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area,” it said. “Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored terrorist found in the area,” it added. It added that a counterterrorism campaign by security forces and law enforcement agencies would continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country. Earlier this week, security forces killed 17 terrorists during IBOs in different districts of Balochistan following the suicide attack on a train in Quetta. The IBOs were conducted in the districts of Mastung, Nushki, Khuzdar and Kech.

Security forces kill 4 terrorists in separate KP operations: ISPR

Security forces killed four terrorists in two separate intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the military’s media wing said on Thursday. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that the four terrorists killed during the operations belonged to Fitna Al Khawarij, referring to the term used by the state to designate members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). “On [the] reported presence of khwarij, an intelligence-based operation (IBO) was conducted by security forces in Dera Ismail Khan district,” ISPR said in a statement. “During [the] conduct of the operation, own troops effectively engaged [the] khwarij location and after [an] intense exchange of fire, two khwarij … were sent to hell.” ISPR added that another IBO was conducted in the Mohmand district of the province. “In [the] ensuing skillful engagement, two more khwarij were effectively neutralised,” the statement added. It further said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the dead terrorists, who remained actively involved in terrorist activities in the area. “Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any other kharji found in the area, as [the] relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm e Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” ISPR stated. At the end of last month, 13 terrorists were killed during a two-day operation in KP’s Darra Adamkhel area, including two Afghan nationals who belonged to the Tariq Gidar group — a TTP affiliate. There has been a resurgence in terrorism in Pakistan since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned TTP. Officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.

Security forces kill 17 terrorists in various districts of Balochistan following Quetta train bombing: ISPR

Security forces killed 17 terrorists during intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in different districts of Balochistan following the suicide car bomb attack against a shuttle train in Quetta, said a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday. At least 14 people were killed and 20 others were injured in the incident, which took place on May 24. The IBOs were conducted in the districts of Mastung, Nushki, Khuzdar and Kech. The military’s media wing added that multiple terrorist locations were targeted by security personnel during these operations. “Following intense and fierce exchanges of fire, 17 terrorists belonging to Indian-sponsored Fitna al Hindustan have been sent to hell, giving a significant blow to the terrorist networks operating in these areas,” the statement read. The state has designated Balochistan-based terrorist groups as Fitna-al-Hindustan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan. ISPR added that weapons, ammunition and a large cache of explosives were recovered from the dead terrorists, as well as improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It added that the terrorists remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area. “Sanitisation operations continue to eliminate terrorists from these areas, as [the] relentless counter-terrorism campaign under vision ‘Azm e Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” ISPR stated. Last month, a major was among five soldiers martyred during an area sanitisation operation in Balochistan’s Barkhan district, according to ISPR. At least seven terrorists were also killed during the operation, and the operation was carried out by the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps. There has been a resurgence in terrorism in Pakistan since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021. Islamabad has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil, particularly those linked to the banned TTP. Officials say those appeals have gone unheeded.

Security forces thwart attack on military post in North Waziristan: security sources

Security forces foiled a suicide attack by Fitna al Khawarij on a military post near Miranshah in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district, security sources said on Tuesday. Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. As per security sources, the terrorists attempted to ram an explosive-laden vehicle into the post. However, security forces took timely action and destroyed the vehicle before it could reach the target, they said. During the operation, four terrorists were killed, and security forces were on high alert, due to which the attack was thwarted. Security sources further stated that the terrorists attempted the attack fearing the success of operations around Miranshah over the past few days, adding that over 20 terrorists have been killed in these operations so far. According to security sources, further operations were underway in the area, and the perpetrators of the attack and their facilitators would be brought to justice. There has been a resurgence in terrorism in Pakistan, especially in KP and Balochistan, since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021. Last week, at least eight militants, including two Afghan nationals belonging to the banned Tariq Gidar group — an affiliate of TTP were killed in KP’s Darra Adamkhel area in an operation. On May 19, security forces killed 22 India-sponsored terrorists in North Waziristan. According to the monthly security assessment released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), Pakistan’s security situation deteriorated sharply in May, driven primarily by escalating terrorist violence in KP and Balochistan.

PM Shehbaz says Youm-i-Takbeer symbolises Pakistan's strength, sovereignty and national unity

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that Youm-i-Takbeer stands as a defining moment in Pakistan’s history when the nation demonstrated unwavering resolve, unity and courage by emerging as a nuclear power and restoring the strategic balance in South Asia. Youm-i-Takbeer marks the historic day of May 28, 1998 when Pakistan joined the ranks of nuclear powers after atomic tests in the hills of Chagai, Balochistan. In his message, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan conducted successful nuclear tests on May 28, 1998 in response to India’s nuclear explosions, sending a clear message to the world that the country would never compromise on its defence and sovereignty. He said the day bears testimony that the defence of Pakistan remained in strong and capable hands. He also paid tribute to all those who contributed to Pakistan’s nuclear programme, including former prime ministers Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif. He also acknowledged the services of national heroes Abdul Qadeer Khan and Samar Mubarakmand, along with scientists, engineers, experts, armed forces personnel and workers who played a historic role in making Pakistan’s defence impregnable. The prime minister said India carried out nuclear tests driven by militaristic ambitions and expansionist designs, while Pakistan responded with wisdom and determination to foil hostile intentions. He noted that despite international pressure, economic threats and financial inducements, then-prime minister Nawaz refused to compromise on the country’s independence and security. PM Shehbaz said that Youm-i-Takbeer symbolised national dignity, sacrifice, unity and an unshakeable commitment to the defence of the homeland. He said Pakistan’s nuclear capability and the preparedness of its armed forces remained a decisive deterrent against enemy aggression. Referring to recent tensions with India, the prime minister said, Pakistan had demonstrated its resolve by delivering a befitting response to aggression during Marka-i-Haq. He said that India had staged a false flag operation in occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam, targeting Pakistani civilians and mosques under that pretext. He said that Pakistan’s armed forces and nation stood united like Bunyanun Marsoos to thwart enemy designs and challenge its perceived military superiority. PM Shehbaz also praised the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, stating that the armed forces displayed exceptional professionalism under his command. He also commended Chief of Air Staff Zaheer Ahmad Babar and Chief of Naval Staff Naveed Ashraf for their exemplary performance. The prime minister said Pakistan has no aggressive intentions against any country but retained the full right to defend itself. He warned that after facing setbacks in direct confrontation, hostile forces were now attempting to undermine Pakistan’s security through proxy elements, including Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan. Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, while Fitna al Hindustan is a term designated by the state for terrorist organisations in Balochistan. PM Shehbaz said Pakistan remained determined to eliminate all such threats and their facilitators through continued operations, including Operation Bunyanun Marsoos and Operation Ghazab lil-Haq. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces were fully prepared and equipped with modern capabilities to defend every inch of the motherland. He urged the nation to renew its pledge for unity, stability, peace and progress and to continue working collectively for a strong, prosperous and dignified Pakistan. ‘Defining moment in Pakistan’s history’ Separately, President Asif Ali Zardari said that Youm-i-Takbeer marked a defining moment in the country’s history, describing May 28, 1998 as the day Pakistan attained strategic sovereignty and ensured an impregnable defence of its independence and territorial integrity through successful nuclear tests at Chagai. In his message, the president said the nuclear tests conducted 28 years ago established Pakistan’s deterrence capability and made the country the seventh nuclear power in the world. He said Pakistans nuclear programme was initiated in response to India’s nuclear ambitions and regional security challenges. President Zardari said successive Pakistani governments had faced international pressure, sanctions and other challenges aimed at deterring the country from pursuing its strategic programme, but Pakistan remained steadfast in protecting its sovereignty and national security interests. Paying tribute to the scientists, engineers and armed forces, he said their dedication, professionalism and patriotism enabled Pakistan to achieve a historic milestone. He also acknowledged the role of national leadership and institutions in strengthening the countrys strategic capabilities. Referring to the events of May 1998, the president said India’s second nuclear tests posed a grave challenge to Pakistan’s security, prompting the countrys political and military leadership to take what he termed a decisive step in line with national aspirations and interests. Despite economic sanctions, threats and international pressure, Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests on May 28, 1998, thereby restoring the balance of power in South Asia, he added. The president said the achievement reflected national unity and collective resolve in defending the country’s independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. He described Pakistan’s nuclear capability as one of the nations most valuable assets and a trust representing the aspirations of the people. Highlighting evolving security challenges, President Zardari said modern warfare increasingly involved cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, drones and other advanced technologies alongside nuclear deterrence. He said Pakistans armed forces had equipped themselves with expertise in these domains and demonstrated professional excellence during Marka-i-Haq last year. He reiterated that Pakistan was a responsible and peace-loving nation that respected international laws and norms, while reserving the right to self-defence under the United Nations Charter. Referring to Operation Bunyanun Marsoos, the president said Pakistan had responded effectively to Indian aggression last year, attributing the success to national unity and the professionalism of the armed forces. President Zardari said Youm-i-Takbeer also served as a reminder of the nations commitment to safeguarding the motherland against all threats. He expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to meet future challenges through self-reliance, innovation and professional excellence. Armed forces reaffirm unwavering resolve to defend Pakistan against all threats In a statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations, CDF Munir and the naval and air chiefs said that Youm-i-Takbeer commemorated the historic achievement of when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power and restored the strategic balance in South Asia. “This defining milestone symbolises the nation’s unity, resilience and unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national honour,” they said. “This historic achievement is a testament to the visionary leadership, remarkable contributions of our scientists and engineers, and the sacrifices of the armed forces and the people of Pakistan. Pakistan’s strategic capability remains a sacred national trust and a guarantor of peace, stability, territorial integrity and credible deterrence in the region,” they said. They added that the armed forces reaffirmed their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats and remain committed to ensuring the security, stability and prosperity of the nation. “On this momentous occasion, bowing in humility to the Almighty, Pakistani nation renews its pledge of unity, vigilance, resilience, and dedication for a stronger and prosperous Pakistan,” the statement concluded.

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At least 14 killed, 20 injured in suicide bombing targeting shuttle train in Quetta: Balochistan govt

QUETTA: At least 14 people were killed and 20 others were injured after a blast caused by a vehicle-borne suicide bombing tore through a shuttle train in Quetta on Sunday morning, the Balochistan government said. Hours after the blast, the provincial government said in a statement it was confirming with “profound grief and deep concern” that a train shuttle service near Chaman Phatak in Quetta was targeted in a vehicle-borne suicide bombing. “This cowardly act of terrorism is not only an attack on innocent human lives but also a heinous attempt to undermine peace, stability, and normal civic life in Balochistan,” the statement said. Citing initial reports, it added that “14 people embraced martyrdom while 20 others sustained injuries, including women and children”. “Among the martyrs were three personnel of the Frontier Corps, while the majority of victims were civilians, including pedestrians, passengers, bystanders, and residents living in houses adjacent to the blast site. “Tragically, an entire family of four — father, mother, son, and daughter — lost their lives in this heartbreaking incident, leaving the entire province in mourning.” According to the statement, the provincial government initiated emergency response measures “immediately after the incident”. Meanwhile, an “emergency has been declared in all major government hospitals in Quetta, while doctors, paramedical staff, and medical personnel has been called in on an urgent basis”. “All possible medical assistance and the best available treatment are being provided to the injured,” the statement. It further stated: “In view of prevailing security concerns, Section 144 was already in force in the area, under which law enforcement agencies had been deployed to maintain security and preventive measures. “Following the blast, the district administration established a central control room at the office of the Quetta deputy commissioner to ensure effective coordination, monitoring, and facilitation of relief operations. In addition, a dedicated monitoring and coordination cell has been activated at the Home Department.” Earlier, state-run APP, citing railway authorities, said the shuttle train was heading from Quetta Cantonment to the railway station when it was targeted near Chaman Phatak shortly after 8am. In a statement, Shahid Rind, an aide to the Balochistan chief minister on media and political affairs, said terrorists had targeted innocent civilians in the attack and security forces had cordoned off the area. Rind said the targeting of public places was a “proof of the terrorists’ confusion”. “The involved elements cannot escape the law,” Rind said, adding that the injured were being provided the best treatment facilities. ‘I heard screaming and crying’ Meanwhile, the police, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and the bomb disposal squad had reached the incident site to collect evidence. Pakistan Railways said rescue trucks and a relief train were dispatched to the site to assist in emergency operations. The explosion derailed three coaches, including the locomotive, while two coaches overturned, APP reported. The blast was loud enough to be heard in various distant areas of the city and caused damage to nearby buildings. A fire reported to have sparked in nearby cars was controlled after intense efforts involving multiple fire brigade vehicles. Images showed a mangled train carriage on its side as people clambered over the wreckage to find survivors. People could be seen carrying blood-soaked victims on stretchers away from a derailed car, while armed security forces stood guard. One video showed about 10 vehicles, mostly small cars, charred as fire and black smoke emerged from some of them. Multiple ambulances could be seen arriving at the site in another video. Earlier footage showed huge plumes of smoke rising from a raging fire, with at least one train coach turned over at a short distance. Mohammad Rahim, who was near the site of the attack, told AFP he was sleeping when the explosion ripped through the area. “My family and I jumped out of our beds when we heard a loud bang,” he said. “I heard screaming and the crying of women and children in the building, including my family.” Another witness, Abdul Basit, told AFP he was standing in a queue to buy breakfast when he heard the blast. “People started running for shelter,” he said. Mujib Ahmad said that his car was damaged in the explosion. “When I heard the blast, I thought that it must be an attack,” he told AFP. Around noon, a statement said Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti was personally monitoring the situation. Police chief presents report Later, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also reached Quetta, where he jointly chaired a meeting with CM Bugti, a statement by the interior ministry said. According to the statement, the Balochistan police chief presented an initial report of the blast during the meeting. “The meeting strongly condemned the cowardly attack on innocent people and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” the statement said. It added that the federal government “stands with the Balochistan government in this hour of grief”. The statement termed the targeting of innocent people “savagery”. It quoted Naqvi as saying that the sacrifices of the martyrs would always be remembered. Moreover, it quoted CM Bugti as saying: “We are grateful to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. He has stood with Balochistan in every difficult time.” The statement said he vowed to punish the “terrorists of Fitna-al-Hindustan”. He also said that “we will not leave the families of the martyrs alone”. Fitna-al-Hindustan is a term designated by the state for terrorist organisations in Balochistan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan. According to the statement, apart from the Balochistan Inspector General, other officers of law enforcement agencies were also present at the meeting. Condemnations Denouncing the blast, President Asif Ali Zardari said such acts of terrorism were aimed at harming the people of Pakistan and diverting attention from the country’s efforts for global peace. “The president said elements hostile to Pakistan are attempting to undermine our initiatives that serve broader humanitarian objectives, global peace and progress,” the presidency said. He stated that terrorists and their patrons were also “seeking to disrupt Pakistan’s focus on stability and development”. He said there should be no doubt that Pakistan would defeat terrorists, their facilitators, financiers and those providing them safe havens, adding the country would also thwart every conspiracy against peace, stability and national security. The president further said Pakistan would neither forget nor forgive the terrorists and their patrons, vowing that every drop of blood of those killed would be accounted for. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also strongly condemned the “heinous bomb explosion”. “Such cowardly acts of terrorism cannot weaken the resolve of the people of Pakistan. We remain steadfast in our determination to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” he wrote on X. The premier expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. “The entire nation stands in solidarity with the people of Balochistan in this hour of grief,” he added. “The terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan are proving their savagery by targeting innocent civilians, women, and children,” Bugti wrote on X, strongly condemning the attack. “Let the enemy hear this: there will be no safe haven left for terrorists in Balochistan. We will hunt down the terrorists, their facilitators, and their masterminds one by one and bring them to justice, and this war will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated,” Bugti vowed. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi also condemned the “cowardly act of terrorism”, adding that it would not weaken the nation’s resolve against militancy. In a statement, Abbasi said that “anti-Pakistan elements operating from India and Afghanistan were sponsoring terrorism to destabilise the country”. The minister directed the authorities concerned to submit an immediate report on the incident. He further reaffirmed that Pakistan Railways’ operational activities would continue without interruption despite the attack. Abbasi said hostile forces were involved in malicious activities aimed at spreading unrest and fear in Pakistan. Slamming terrorists as “enemies of humanity”, the minister asserted they would be “brought to a disgraceful end”. “Terrorist networks operating from India and Afghanistan would never be allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs against Pakistan,” Abbasi said. Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also condemned the “savage act of terrorism targeting innocent civilians on a shuttle train near Chaman Phatak, Quetta”. “The tragic explosion has claimed precious lives and left many others injured. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured,” he said in a post on X, further paying tribute to the first responders, police, armed forces, and rescue and health personnel for their “courage and efforts in assisting those affected”. “We stand in complete solidarity with the people of Balochistan at this difficult time. Those responsible for this cowardly attack against innocent civilians will be brought to justice. “Such heinous acts cannot and will not weaken Pakistan’s resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” the DPM said. The Chinese embassy in Pakistan also issued a condemnation, extending “deep condolences to the deceased victims and sincere sympathies to the bereaved families”. “We firmly oppose any form of terrorism and will, as always, firmly support Pakistan in combating terrorism and protecting the safety of the people. We stand firmly with our Pakistani brothers and sisters at this moment,” the statement said. The Russian embassy in Pakistan also condemned the incident, expressing hope that the perpetrators would be “identified and brought to justice”. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims and wish all those injured a speedy recovery,” the embassy further said in a post on X. Meanwhile, the Turkish foreign ministry said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives caused by the terrorist attack targeting a passenger train today (May 24) in Balochistan. “We strongly condemn this heinous attack, wish God’s mercy upon those who lost their lives, and extend our condolences to their families and to the people of Pakistan.” It emphasised that such attacks targeting the peace and stability of the region were “utterly unacceptable” and reiterated Turkiye’s “solidarity with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism”. HRCP raises alarm The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) said it was “gravely alarmed” at the security situation across Balochistan after the blast, noting a rise in terrorism incidents, which it said indicated a “dangerous erosion of the state’s writ across large parts of the province”. In a post on its X account, the commission expressed alarm, stressing that “civilians, workers, passengers, and law enforcement personnel are increasingly vulnerable to violence, abduction, and attacks on public infrastructure” in the province. The statement maintained that today’s bombing marked a “deeply disturbing acceleration in attacks on civilians in the province”. “Equally troubling are reports of repeated incidents in Chagai at the Reko Diq site and in Ziarat, where armed groups have allegedly abducted at least 21 civilians, including one police officer, in the last week, and torched vehicles with apparent impunity. “This follows similar attacks in Noshki and Kalat earlier in May where five workers and five police personnel, respectively, were abducted by armed men,” the statement read. HRCP termed it unacceptable that civilians and non-combatants be used as “bargaining tools in situations of conflict and insecurity”, calling on the state to ensure civilian protection and accountability for rights abuses by “all actors”. This is a developing story that is being updated as the situation evolves. Initial reports in the media can sometimes be inaccurate. We will strive to ensure timeliness and accuracy by relying on credible sources, such as concerned, qualified authorities and our staff reporters. Additional input from APP, AFP

At least 14 killed, 20 injured in suicide bombing targeting train in Quetta: Balochistan govt

QUETTA: At least 14 people were killed and 20 others were injured after a blast caused by a vehicle-borne suicide bombing tore through a shuttle train in Quetta on Sunday morning, the Balochistan government said. Hours after the blast, the provincial government said in a statement it was confirming with “profound grief and deep concern” that a train shuttle service near Chaman Phatak in Quetta was targeted in a vehicle-borne suicide bombing. “This cowardly act of terrorism is not only an attack on innocent human lives but also a heinous attempt to undermine peace, stability, and normal civic life in Balochistan,” the statement said. Citing initial reports, it added that “14 people embraced martyrdom while 20 others sustained injuries, including women and children”. “Among the martyrs were three personnel of the Frontier Corps, while the majority of victims were civilians, including pedestrians, passengers, bystanders, and residents living in houses adjacent to the blast site. “Tragically, an entire family of four — father, mother, son, and daughter — lost their lives in this heartbreaking incident, leaving the entire province in mourning.” According to the statement, the provincial government initiated emergency response measures “immediately after the incident”. Meanwhile, an “emergency has been declared in all major government hospitals in Quetta, while doctors, paramedical staff, and medical personnel has been called in on an urgent basis”. “All possible medical assistance and the best available treatment are being provided to the injured,” the statement. It further stated: “In view of prevailing security concerns, Section 144 was already in force in the area, under which law enforcement agencies had been deployed to maintain security and preventive measures. “Following the blast, the district administration established a central control room at the office of the Quetta deputy commissioner to ensure effective coordination, monitoring, and facilitation of relief operations. In addition, a dedicated monitoring and coordination cell has been activated at the Home Department.” Earlier, state-run APP, citing railway authorities, said the shuttle train was heading from Quetta Cantonment to the railway station when it was targeted near Chaman Phatak shortly after 8am. In a statement, Shahid Rind, an aide to the Balochistan chief minister on media and political affairs, said terrorists had targeted innocent civilians in the attack and security forces had cordoned off the area. Rind said the targeting of public places was a “proof of the terrorists’ confusion”. “The involved elements cannot escape the law,” Rind said, adding that the injured were being provided the best treatment facilities. ‘I heard screaming and crying’ Meanwhile, the police, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and the bomb disposal squad had reached the incident site to collect evidence. Pakistan Railways said rescue trucks and a relief train were dispatched to the site to assist in emergency operations. The explosion derailed three coaches, including the locomotive, while two coaches overturned, APP reported. The blast was loud enough to be heard in various distant areas of the city and caused damage to nearby buildings. A fire reported to have sparked in nearby cars was controlled after intense efforts involving multiple fire brigade vehicles. Images showed a mangled train carriage on its side as people clambered over the wreckage to find survivors. People could be seen carrying blood-soaked victims on stretchers away from a derailed car, while armed security forces stood guard. One video showed about 10 vehicles, mostly small cars, charred as fire and black smoke emerged from some of them. Multiple ambulances could be seen arriving at the site in another video. Earlier footage showed huge plumes of smoke rising from a raging fire, with at least one train coach turned over at a short distance. Mohammad Rahim, who was near the site of the attack, told AFP he was sleeping when the explosion ripped through the area. “My family and I jumped out of our beds when we heard a loud bang,” he said. “I heard screaming and the crying of women and children in the building, including my family.” Another witness, Abdul Basit, told AFP he was standing in a queue to buy breakfast when he heard the blast. “People started running for shelter,” he said. Mujib Ahmad said that his car was damaged in the explosion. “When I heard the blast, I thought that it must be an attack,” he told AFP. Around noon, a statement said Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti was personally monitoring the situation. Police chief presents report Later, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also reached Quetta, where he jointly chaired a meeting with CM Bugti, a statement by the interior ministry said. According to the statement, the Balochistan police chief presented an initial report of the blast during the meeting. “The meeting strongly condemned the cowardly attack on innocent people and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” the statement said. It added that the federal government “stands with the Balochistan government in this hour of grief”. The statement termed the targeting of innocent people “savagery”. It quoted Naqvi as saying that the sacrifices of the martyrs would always be remembered. Moreover, it quoted CM Bugti as saying: “We are grateful to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. He has stood with Balochistan in every difficult time.” The statement said he vowed to punish the “terrorists of Fitna-al-Hindustan”. He also said that “we will not leave the families of the martyrs alone”. Fitna-al-Hindustan is a term designated by the state for terrorist organisations in Balochistan to highlight India’s alleged role in terrorism and destabilisation across Pakistan. According to the statement, apart from the Balochistan Inspector General, other officers of law enforcement agencies were also present at the meeting. Condemnations Denouncing the blast, President Asif Ali Zardari said such acts of terrorism were aimed at harming the people of Pakistan and diverting attention from the country’s efforts for global peace. “The president said elements hostile to Pakistan are attempting to undermine our initiatives that serve broader humanitarian objectives, global peace and progress,” the presidency said. He stated that terrorists and their patrons were also “seeking to disrupt Pakistan’s focus on stability and development”. He said there should be no doubt that Pakistan would defeat terrorists, their facilitators, financiers and those providing them safe havens, adding the country would also thwart every conspiracy against peace, stability and national security. The president further said Pakistan would neither forget nor forgive the terrorists and their patrons, vowing that every drop of blood of those killed would be accounted for. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also strongly condemned the “heinous bomb explosion”. “Such cowardly acts of terrorism cannot weaken the resolve of the people of Pakistan. We remain steadfast in our determination to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” he wrote on X. The premier expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. “The entire nation stands in solidarity with the people of Balochistan in this hour of grief,” he added. “The terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan are proving their savagery by targeting innocent civilians, women, and children,” Bugti wrote on X, strongly condemning the attack. “Let the enemy hear this: there will be no safe haven left for terrorists in Balochistan. We will hunt down the terrorists, their facilitators, and their masterminds one by one and bring them to justice, and this war will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated,” Bugti vowed. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi also condemned the “cowardly act of terrorism”, adding that it would not weaken the nation’s resolve against militancy. In a statement, Abbasi said that “anti-Pakistan elements operating from India and Afghanistan were sponsoring terrorism to destabilise the country”. The minister directed the authorities concerned to submit an immediate report on the incident. He further reaffirmed that Pakistan Railways’ operational activities would continue without interruption despite the attack. Abbasi said hostile forces were involved in malicious activities aimed at spreading unrest and fear in Pakistan. Slamming terrorists as “enemies of humanity”, the minister asserted they would be “brought to a disgraceful end”. “Terrorist networks operating from India and Afghanistan would never be allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs against Pakistan,” Abbasi said. Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also condemned the “savage act of terrorism targeting innocent civilians on a shuttle train near Chaman Phatak, Quetta”. “The tragic explosion has claimed precious lives and left many others injured. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured,” he said in a post on X, further paying tribute to the first responders, police, armed forces, and rescue and health personnel for their “courage and efforts in assisting those affected”. “We stand in complete solidarity with the people of Balochistan at this difficult time. Those responsible for this cowardly attack against innocent civilians will be brought to justice. “Such heinous acts cannot and will not weaken Pakistan’s resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” the DPM said. The Chinese embassy in Pakistan also issued a condemnation, extending “deep condolences to the deceased victims and sincere sympathies to the bereaved families”. “We firmly oppose any form of terrorism and will, as always, firmly support Pakistan in combating terrorism and protecting the safety of the people. We stand firmly with our Pakistani brothers and sisters at this moment,” the statement said. The Russian embassy in Pakistan also condemned the incident, expressing hope that the perpetrators would be “identified and brought to justice”. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims and wish all those injured a speedy recovery,” the embassy further said in a post on X. HRCP raises alarm The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) said it was “gravely alarmed” at the security situation across Balochistan after the blast, noting a rise in terrorism incidents, which it said indicated a “dangerous erosion of the state’s writ across large parts of the province”. In a post on its X account, the commission expressed alarm, stressing that “civilians, workers, passengers, and law enforcement personnel are increasingly vulnerable to violence, abduction, and attacks on public infrastructure” in the province. The statement maintained that today’s bombing marked a “deeply disturbing acceleration in attacks on civilians in the province”. “Equally troubling are reports of repeated incidents in Chagai at the Reko Diq site and in Ziarat, where armed groups have allegedly abducted at least 21 civilians, including one police officer, in the last week, and torched vehicles with apparent impunity. “This follows similar attacks in Noshki and Kalat earlier in May where five workers and five police personnel, respectively, were abducted by armed men,” the statement read. HRCP termed it unacceptable that civilians and non-combatants be used as “bargaining tools in situations of conflict and insecurity”, calling on the state to ensure civilian protection and accountability for rights abuses by “all actors”. This is a developing story that is being updated as the situation evolves. Initial reports in the media can sometimes be inaccurate. We will strive to ensure timeliness and accuracy by relying on credible sources, such as concerned, qualified authorities and our staff reporters. Additional input from APP, AFP

Security forces kill 11 terrorists in KP's North Waziristan: ISPR

Security forces have killed 11 terrorists in the Datta Khel area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district during the last 48 hours, the military’s media affairs wing said on Sunday. A statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said security forces had “engaged multiple” terrorist locations as part of a series of intelligence-based operations in the area. “Following intense and fierce exchanges of fire, eleven khawarij belonging to India-sponsored Fitna-al-Khawarij were effectively neutralised,” the statement said. Fitna-al-Khawarij is a term that the state uses for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. According to ISPR, weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who “remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area”. “Sanitisation operations continue to eliminate holed up khawarij from these areas, as a relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by security forces and law enforcement agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country,” the ISPR statement added. More to follow

Dawn (Pakistan)

진보 성향

사회

부정적

뉴스

타임라인 키워드

Tok batin difitnah sorok Jaslinda, Orang Asli lapor polis

India slams Pakistan at UN over 'Fitna al Hindustan' label

Azam Baki fail saman fitnah terhadap Albert Tei

'Organised factory of hate': India tears into Pakistan's 'Fitna al Hindustan' campaign at UN

‘Organised factory of hate’: India blasts Pakistan at UN over ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ designation to groups

India at UNSC: Pakistan’s ‘Fitna al Hindustan’ narrative ‘officially sponsored misinformation’

Fadhli arah peguam mula tindakan terhadap pengguna FB

Security forces kill 27 India-backed terrorists in North Waziristan: ISPR

27 terrorists killed in North Waziristan IBOs: ISPR

6 terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation in Balochistan's Panjgur: ISPR

Six India-backed terrorists killed in Panjgur IBO: ISPR

Security forces kill 4 terrorists in separate KP operations: ISPR

Security forces kill four India-backed terrorists in KP IBOs: ISPR

Security forces kill 17 terrorists in various districts of Balochistan following Quetta train bombing: ISPR

Security forces thwart attack on military post in North Waziristan: security sources

Menteri ajak rakyat jadi masyarakat digital beretika sempena Hari Wesak

PM Shehbaz says Youm-i-Takbeer symbolises Pakistan's strength, sovereignty and national unity

At least 14 killed, 20 injured in suicide bombing targeting shuttle train in Quetta: Balochistan govt

At least 14 killed, 20 injured in suicide bombing targeting train in Quetta: Balochistan govt

Security forces kill 11 terrorists in KP's North Waziristan: ISPR

뉴스

타임라인 키워드

Tok batin difitnah sorok Jaslinda, Orang Asli lapor polis

India slams Pakistan at UN over 'Fitna al Hindustan' label

Azam Baki fail saman fitnah terhadap Albert Tei

'Organised factory of hate': India tears into Pakistan's 'Fitna al Hindustan' campaign at UN

‘Organised factory of hate’: India blasts Pakistan at UN over ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ designation to groups

India at UNSC: Pakistan’s ‘Fitna al Hindustan’ narrative ‘officially sponsored misinformation’

Fadhli arah peguam mula tindakan terhadap pengguna FB

Security forces kill 27 India-backed terrorists in North Waziristan: ISPR

27 terrorists killed in North Waziristan IBOs: ISPR

6 terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation in Balochistan's Panjgur: ISPR

Six India-backed terrorists killed in Panjgur IBO: ISPR

Security forces kill 4 terrorists in separate KP operations: ISPR

Security forces kill four India-backed terrorists in KP IBOs: ISPR

Security forces kill 17 terrorists in various districts of Balochistan following Quetta train bombing: ISPR

Security forces thwart attack on military post in North Waziristan: security sources

Menteri ajak rakyat jadi masyarakat digital beretika sempena Hari Wesak

PM Shehbaz says Youm-i-Takbeer symbolises Pakistan's strength, sovereignty and national unity

At least 14 killed, 20 injured in suicide bombing targeting shuttle train in Quetta: Balochistan govt

At least 14 killed, 20 injured in suicide bombing targeting train in Quetta: Balochistan govt

Security forces kill 11 terrorists in KP's North Waziristan: ISPR