A lethal car bomb detonated close to a busy market in Qillah Abdullah, Balochistan, on Sunday (May 18), killing four individuals and injuring a minimum of 20 others. The blast, which took place in restive southwestern Pakistan, reflects the persisting instability in an area long torment by insurgency.
Blast Causes Widespread Damage
The explosion not only killed people but also destroyed a number of shops and affected the outer perimeter of a nearby paramilitary compound, said Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Riaz. An investigation into the attack has been underway.
“No group has claimed responsibility for the bombing yet,” confirmed officials on Monday (May 19).
Government Condemns Attack
Shahid Rind, government spokesperson for Balochistan, condemned the act of terrorism and reiterated the government’s determination to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. He said that an investigation was underway to ascertain the attackers’ identity.
Balochistan’s History of Insurgency
The Balochistan province has been at the center of a separatist rebellion led by the likes of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) for years. They have conducted a number of high-profile attacks against both civilians and security forces.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of supporting such outfits, such as the BLA and Pakistan Taliban, as attacks have mounted in recent months. In one of the most deadly attacks in March, the BLA struck a passenger train, killing 33 individuals—most of whom were soldiers.
BLA Seeks India’s Support
In a significant turn of events earlier this month, the BLA publicly called out for help from India. The organization said, “If we are politically, diplomatically and defence supported by the world — particularly by India — then the Baloch nation can destroy this terrorist state and establish the basis for a peaceful, prosperous and independent Balochistan.”
There has been no official response to this appeal from India.
Heightened Tensions Between India and Pakistan
The bombing follows increasing military tensions between Pakistan and India. In retaliation for the Pahalgam attack in India in which 26 lost their lives, New Delhi conducted Operation Sindoor, attacking nine terrorist camps inside Pakistan.
Pakistani forces retaliated with missile and drone attacks that were intercepted by Indian defense. The two countries after four days of heavy military action reached a common ceasefire agreement.
As the province struggles with heightened violence and widening geopolitical divides, the recent bombing in Balochistan contributes to fears of national security and a potential new war. The government of Pakistan now has increasing pressure to quell guerrilla operations while dealing with tense relations with its eastern neighbor.