In recent times, Pakistan has faced a complex array of security challenges, ranging from internal insurgencies to escalating regional tensions. The resurgence of militant activities in recent months, particularly in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has posed significant challenges to Pakistan’s internal security. In August 2024 alone, the country experienced 59 terrorist attacks, highlighting the escalating threat landscape. Groups such as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch separatist outfits have intensified their operations, targeting both civilian and military entities. The escalating tensions with India have further compounded Pakistan’s security challenges.
The government’s response has been marked by decisive action, strategic initiatives, and a commitment to safeguarding national stability.
Jaffar Express hijacking
On March 11, 2025, the nation was jolted by the hijacking of the Jaffar Express by Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants. The assailants seized the train in Balochistan, taking over 400 passengers hostage. In a swift and coordinated response, the Pakistan Armed Forces launched “Operation Green Bolan,” successfully rescuing 354 hostages and neutralising 33 insurgents. The operation, however, came at a cost, with 64 individuals, including 18 soldiers, losing their lives.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack as a “cowardly act” and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to combat terrorism. In the aftermath, Pakistan Railways implemented enhanced security measures, including increased patrols and surveillance, to prevent similar incidents.
India’s response stands in stark contrast to Pakistan’s approach following the Jaffar Express hijacking in March 2025.
On March 13, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level security conference in Quetta, attended by key federal and provincial officials, including the deputy prime minister, foreign minister, federal minister for planning, minister of information, governor and chief minister of Balochistan, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, and senior civil and military leaders. The conference focused on assessing the prevailing security situation in Balochistan, reviewing ongoing counterterrorism efforts, and discussing the successful rescue operation related to the Jaffar Express incident. Participants unanimously condemned the terrorist attack and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to uphold a policy of zero tolerance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, stated that the terrorists were in contact with their handlers and ringleaders in Afghanistan and alleged that India has been involved in terrorism in Pakistan. Despite these serious allegations, Pakistan refrained from immediate retaliatory actions, opting instead to conduct thorough investigations and present its case to international forums, including the United Nations Security Council.
National Assembly resolution
In a show of national unity, the National Assembly passed a unanimous resolution on March 13, 2025, condemning the hijacking of the Jaffar Express and all acts of terrorism that threaten the lives of citizens and disrupt peace. The resolution, presented by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, praised the swift and successful operation by security forces in rescuing the hostages. It also emphasised the need for a unified national strategy to confront terrorism and declared that no extremist ideologies would be allowed to operate within the country.
Law and order meeting in Balochistan
Chief Minister of Balochistan, Sarfaraz Bugti, chaired a meeting focusing on law and order and the Jaffar Express attack. He labelled the attack intolerable and called for strict action against those responsible. The chief minister emphasised that terrorists would not be allowed to occupy even an inch of territory and directed that all resources be provided to security institutions to protect the people. He also stressed that there would be strong action against the facilitators of terrorists and that tough decisions must be made to maintain law and order in Balochistan.
Parliamentary Committee Session
In response to the escalating security concerns, the Parliamentary Committee on National Security (PCNS) was convened for an in-camera session in the National Assembly. The meeting, called by Speaker of National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, aimed to provide lawmakers with an in-depth briefing on internal and external threats, including the resurgence of militancy in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Top military leadership was expected to participate, and representatives from all major political parties were invited to attend.
These meetings underscore the government’s commitment to addressing the security challenges facing Pakistan and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Escalating tensions with India
In April 2025, a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militants, leading to a series of retaliatory measures, including the suspension of diplomatic relations and the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan denied involvement and warned that any interference with its water rights would be considered an act of war. It also announced the suspension of the 1972 Simla Agreement, closure of the Wagah Border Crossing, halting of trade, closure of airspace, and diplomatic retaliation such as the expulsion of Indian diplomats.
India’s response stands in stark contrast to Pakistan’s approach following the Jaffar Express hijacking in March 2025. Despite publicly attributing the attack to Indian sponsorship — citing evidence of the Baloch Liberation Army’s (BLA) communication with handlers in Afghanistan— Pakistan refrained from immediate retaliatory actions. Instead, the government emphasised diplomatic channels, presenting its case to international forums, including the United Nations Security Council, and calling for global condemnation of terrorism. This strategy highlights Pakistan’s commitment to addressing security threats through international cooperation and legal avenues, rather than unilateral punitive measures.
It is time for citizens to rise above political affiliations and personal interests, standing together in solidarity against those who seek to destabilise the country.
The situation highlights the fragile nature of regional relations and the importance of diplomatic engagement. Pakistan has called for international mediation to de-escalate tensions and has reiterated its commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes.
As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasised, combating terrorism is not solely the responsibility of the armed forces but necessitates a collective effort from all segments of society. It is time for citizens to rise above political affiliations and personal interests, standing together in solidarity against those who seek to destabilise the country.
