Pakistan has carried out a new round of airstrikes in Balochistan as militant attacks have increased across the southwestern province, sources told CNN-News18. According to top intelligence sources cited by the report, Pakistani strikes in Surab and Gwadar killed at least 21 civilians. The victims reportedly included women and children. The latest attacks came amid a sharp escalation in violence between Pakistani security forces and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

BLA Claims Heavy Losses Among Pakistani Soldiers

The airstrikes followed a claim by the BLA that it had killed at least 32 Pakistani soldiers in attacks carried out during the month. The militant group also launched a series of overnight attacks while Pakistani airstrikes were continuing.

According to CNN-News18, the BLA targeted police and military personnel at at least six locations. Authorities had not immediately released details about casualties from those attacks. The simultaneous attacks and airstrikes have further intensified the security situation across Balochistan.

Pakistani Forces Reportedly Kill 10 Insurgents

Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistani authorities said security forces had killed 10 insurgents during clashes in Balochistan. Officials also reported a separate incident involving a car bomb that exploded prematurely.

According to authorities, the failed bombing killed at least 11 people. Eight of those killed were reportedly militants who were preparing the explosives, while three victims were people living in a nearby house. The incident added to the growing violence in the province as security forces continued operations against insurgent groups.

BLA Carries Out Six Attacks Across Balochistan

While Pakistan carried out airstrikes, the BLA reportedly launched six separate attacks against security targets. According to CNN-News18, the attacks mainly focused on police and military personnel.

In Chagai district, BLA members reportedly destroyed a police station in a midnight bombing. Three security personnel were killed in the attack. The group also attacked a Pakistani military camp in Jhao.

Another attack targeted a security forces convoy travelling along the Khuzdar RCD Highway. In nearby Wadh, militants reportedly ambushed military vehicles. The BLA also attacked a security checkpoint in the Manguchar Bazaar area.

In Yakmach, militants reportedly ambushed commercial vehicles and hijacked a truck. The attacks show the ability of the insurgent group to target security forces and transport routes at multiple locations.

Why is Violence Rising in Balochistan?

Balochistan has faced a separatist insurgency for decades. The province is home to the ethnic Baloch community, many of whom have long demanded greater political rights and self-determination.

Baloch nationalist groups argue that Pakistan’s control over the region is illegitimate. They claim that Balochistan’s accession to Pakistan took place under pressure.

Some groups have adopted armed resistance. The BLA is among the most prominent organisations involved in the insurgency and seeks to end Pakistani control over the province. The conflict has led to repeated attacks on security forces, government installations and other targets.

Balochistan Rich In Resources But Remains Poor

Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province by area and has significant natural resources. Despite this wealth, it remains the poorest province in the country. Local communities have long accused the federal government of failing to share the benefits of the province’s natural resources with its people.

Residents and Baloch nationalist groups have also accused the federal authorities of following an exploitative economic model. They argue that resources extracted from the province largely benefit other parts of Pakistan.

The region has also witnessed allegations of ethnic discrimination and persecution. Critics have particularly accused Pakistan’s Punjabi-dominated political and military establishment of marginalising the Baloch population.

Conflict Puts Balochistan Under Fresh Pressure

The latest airstrikes and militant attacks have brought renewed attention to the long-running conflict in Balochistan. The reported deaths of civilians in Pakistani airstrikes, combined with attacks claimed by the BLA, point to another major escalation in the province.

As security forces increase operations against insurgents and militant groups continue attacks on military and police targets, the conflict remains a major security challenge for Pakistan.