Days after Balochistan was rocked by a wave of terrorism, the United States Department of Defence has “strongly condemned” the series of attacks that claimed the lives of over 50 individuals, including civilians and security personnel. The condemnation comes as the region grapples with the aftermath of one of its deadliest attacks in recent history.
In a press briefing at the Pentagon, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh expressed the US government’s deep concern over the violence in Pakistan’s southwestern province. “We strongly condemn any terrorist attack like that, and of course, our thoughts are with those who lost their lives during that attack,” Singh stated.
When asked about Washington’s potential support to Islamabad in combating terror groups operating in Balochistan, Singh admitted that she was not currently aware of any direct US involvement or assistance being provided to Pakistan in this regard. “But if that changes, I can certainly let you know,” she added, leaving the door open for future cooperation.
Singh’s comments followed the recent bloodshed in Balochistan, where multiple terrorist attacks claimed the lives of more than 50 people. The violence prompted an immediate response from Pakistani leadership, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visiting Quetta, the provincial capital, on Thursday. During his visit, PM Shehbaz vowed to eradicate terrorism from Balochistan at all costs, emphasizing that the “blood of martyrs will not go in vain.”
The Pentagon official also addressed the broader question of US assistance in counter-terrorism efforts, noting that Washington remains open to working with any nation committed to eradicating terrorist organizations. “We have good cooperation with the Pakistani government. But in terms of these attacks, I just — I don’t have anything for you other than that we, of course, condemn them,” Singh reiterated.
She further stated that any changes regarding US cooperation with Pakistan in this matter would be communicated by the US Department of Defence.
Terrorism in Balochistan
The recent spate of violence in Balochistan included some of the most brutal attacks in the province’s history. On Monday, at least 23 passengers were tragically killed after being forcibly offloaded from buses and trucks in the Rarasham area of Musakhel. In another deadly incident, at least 10 individuals, including police and Balochistan Levies personnel, were martyred in a gun attack in Kalat.
Additionally, 14 members of Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies lost their lives during clearance operations aimed at neutralizing militants. In these operations, at least 21 militants were killed, marking a fierce and ongoing battle against terrorism in the region.
The recent attacks have provoked a strong response from both federal and provincial governments, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ruling out any possibility of dialogue or a “soft approach” in dealing with those responsible for the violence.
