A train attack in southwestern Pakistan that killed 26 people has drawn international condemnation, with neighboring India accused of sponsoring militant groups by the Pakistani military.
The attack occurred on Tuesday in Balochistan province, where a group of militants from the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked a train and took hundreds of passengers hostage. The standoff lasted for over 36 hours until security forces killed 33 suspected hijackers.
Pakistan has long struggled to control militant groups operating in the region. Oil- and mineral-rich Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest and least populated province, where residents have accused the central government of discrimination. The attack has drawn condemnation from the US, China, Turkey, Iran, and the UK, with the UN Security Council stating that perpetrators must be held accountable.
Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif, accused India of being the main sponsor of the attack, but provided no evidence to support the claim. India has rejected the accusation, with its foreign ministry spokesperson calling it “baseless”.
The attack has had a significant impact on daily life in Balochistan, with all train services suspended since Tuesday’s incident. Survivors have recounted their harrowing ordeal, describing scenes of violence and terror as militants targeted security forces and minority groups.
The region has a long history of tension between Pakistan and India, with four wars fought since independence in 1947. The dispute over Balochistan’s resources is a key factor in the conflict.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/14/pakistan-accuses-india-of-sponsoring-militant-terror-group-after-train-hijacking