Balochistan Bombing: Pakistani Jets Target Region, 20 Civilians Reportedly Dead

Islamabad: At least 20 civilians have been claimed dead and dozens injured in alleged bombing by Pakistani fighter planes in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province. According to Baloch media, air strikes were carried out at several places in Gondhan area of ​​Gidar in Sorab area from late Tuesday night to early Wednesday. It is also said that many houses were destroyed in the attacks. However, these claims have not yet been independently confirmed. There has been no official statement from the Pakistan Army regarding the death of civilians in this alleged air attack.

Why did the claims of blasts keep echoing in Gondhan throughout the night?

According to The Balochistan Post report, Pakistani fighter jets targeted several targets in Gidar area of ​​Sorab. Quoting local sources, the report said that the bombing also caused heavy damage in residential areas. Local organisations allege that the homes of common people have come under the influence of military action. On the other hand, Pakistan has generally presented such actions in Balochistan as anti-terrorism operations.

What is the official side of Pakistan Army?

No clear statement has yet come from the Pakistani Army regarding this latest incident. However, earlier the army had informed about conducting anti-terrorism operations in Balochistan on the basis of intelligence information. According to the Army, five alleged terrorists were killed in the operation in Panjgur district and arms, ammunition and IEDs were recovered from their possession. In such a situation, it is not clear whether the air strikes being reported in Gondhan were part of the same operation or a separate action.

Why is military action increasing in Balochistan?

Balochistan has long been battling an armed insurgency against the Pakistan government and security forces. Many separatist organisations, including the Baloch Liberation Army, demand independence or greater autonomy from Pakistan. In recent times, these organisations have intensified attacks on security establishments, military convoys, railways and major routes. In response, Pakistani security forces have also launched large-scale operations. Even in July, there were reports of a large number of people being killed during military operations in Balochistan. 

How many attacks has BLA claimed responsibility for?

The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for several attacks in the province in recent days. According to the organisation's spokesperson Ziand Baloch, between August 1 and 8, its fighters conducted 38 operations. The organisation claims that Pakistani army and security establishments were targeted in these actions. However, independent verification of such claims is difficult and the Government of Pakistan considers these organisations to be terrorist organisations.

Is the allegation of attack on common people new?

There have been allegations in the past also about civilians being affected during military operations in Balochistan. Recently, a Baloch human rights organisation had claimed that three civilians were killed and five were injured in aerial and drone action by Pakistani security forces in the Zehri area of ​​the province. Due to the conflict between Pakistan's security system and Baloch organisations, such allegations have been continuously coming to the fore.

What is the impact of increasing violence in Balochistan?

Continued military operations and insurgent attacks have further complicated the security situation in Balochistan. On one hand, BLA and other armed groups are targeting the security forces, while on the other hand, there are allegations of civilians being affected by the army's action. Amidst this conflict, the safety of life and property remains the biggest concern for the local population. At present, detailed information from independent sources and Pakistani officials is awaited to confirm the alleged attack in Gondhan and the claim of death of 20 civilians.