Latest news with #OperationHerof
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- First Post
Embarrassment for Asim Munir! BLA captures key city during field marshal's visit to Balochistan
As Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir issued warnings to India from Balochistan's capital Quetta, the BLA claimed control of the Surab city of the restive province read more Pakistan has promoted Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir to rank of Field Marshal. YouTube/ISPR In a huge embarrassment for Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, the separatist group Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed control of Surab city of Balochistan as he was delivering a speech in the provincial capital of Quetta. Munir, while addressing the Command and Staff College, said he was in favour of a peaceful resolution to the 'Kashmir issue' and condemned what he called India's 'unlawful and legally untenable hydro-terrorism', in reference to the decision by New Delhi to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'While reiterating the resolve to defeat any aggression and ability to deal with threats across the entire conflict spectrum, the COAS asserted that Pakistan will never be coerced and inimical designs to distract Pakistan's efforts against war on terrorism will be comprehensively defeated. For strategic stability of South Asia, the COAS emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of longstanding internationally recognized Kashmir dispute, and warned against the unlawful and legally untenable 'hydro terrorism' by India,' the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Pakistani military's media wing, said in a statement Friday (May 30). BLA claims control of Surab city While Munir spoke, the Baloch Liberation Group, a banned separatist group in Pakistan, announced that it had taken control of Surab city in Balochistan. The group, which has increased its activities recently, made this announcement to coincide with the field marshal's visit, likely aiming to challenge the military's claim of control in the restive province. At the same time, Munir expressed confidence that Pakistan's fight against terrorism would continue until it is completely successful, ensuring victory over all forms of extremism. Operation Herof The BLA is continuing its 'Operation Herof' against the Pakistani regime, launched in August 2024. Analysts consider the operation as the largest and most coordinated armed campaign as part of the Baloch self-determination movement. Even during the recent Indo-Pak conflict, the BLA claimed it conducted 71 attacks against the Pakistani regime at 51 locations. In addition to Pakistani rule in Balochistan, the BLA has also opposed Chinese presence in the region. The group has mounted attacks against the Chinese as well, in the province.
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
14-05-2025
- Politics
- First Post
Baloch leaders declare independence from Pakistan, urge India and UN for recognition
Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by area, was once part of the princely state of Kalat before being annexed by Pakistan in 1948 read more Repression became the modus operandi to check dissent, peaceful protest, and equal representation. Militarism characterised the Pakistani state in Balochistan. Representational image/Reuters Baloch nationalist leaders have issued a symbolic declaration of independence from Pakistan, reigniting tensions in the region and drawing renewed attention to the long-standing insurgency in the restive southwestern province of Balochistan. Mir Yar Baloch, a prominent Baloch activist and writer, shared a series of statements on social media last week proclaiming the formation of a 'Republic of Balochistan' and calling on the Indian government to establish a Baloch embassy in New Delhi. He also appealed to the United Nations to recognize the declaration and provide funding for basic state functions, including currency and passport issuance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'A possible announcement soon should be done as the collapse of the terrorist Pakistan is near,' he posted on May 9. 'We request India to allow Balochistan's official office, and embassy in Delhi.' His comments were accompanied by images of people waving Baloch flags and maps depicting an independent Balochistan. The posts come amid growing calls from Baloch leaders for greater international engagement and support, particularly from India. Armed group claims coordinated attacks The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), designated a terrorist organisation by Pakistan, claimed responsibility for 71 coordinated attacks across 51 locations in recent days as part of what it called 'Operation Herof.' The group said it targeted Pakistani military and intelligence facilities, police stations, mineral transport vehicles, and major highway infrastructure. In a statement issued on May 11, the BLA said a 'new order has become inevitable' in South Asia and warned that Pakistan's military setbacks and use of religious extremism had created lasting instability. The group rejected Islamabad's overtures for ceasefire talks, describing them as a deceptive tactic, and urged regional powers, including India, not to place trust in Pakistan's intentions. 'The BLA is neither a pawn nor a silent spectator,' the group said. 'It will not rest until Pakistan is dismantled as a terror-exporting state.' Historical grievances and human rights concerns Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by area, was once part of the princely state of Kalat before being annexed by Pakistan in 1948. The move triggered the first of several insurgencies, with nationalist groups demanding greater autonomy or independence. Successive military operations by the Pakistani state have led to repeated cycles of rebellion and suppression. Human rights organizations have documented reports of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and the targeting of civilians. The recent killing of prominent Baloch rally driver Tariq Baloch, allegedly under a 'kill and dump' policy, has further inflamed tensions and drawn criticism from international rights advocates. Gwadar Port and strategic interests Balochistan's strategic importance stems from the presence of the deep-water Gwadar Port, a critical node in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). While CPEC has brought billions of dollars in Chinese investment to Pakistan, local communities say they have been excluded from its benefits and forced off their lands without proper compensation. The port and surrounding areas have been the target of repeated attacks by Baloch insurgents, some of which have directly threatened Chinese personnel working on infrastructure projects. India's role and diplomatic signals In recent weeks, Baloch activists have intensified their outreach to India. Mir Yar Baloch called for the renaming of the historic Jinnah's House in Mumbai to 'Balochistan House,' framing it as a symbolic gesture of support. Social media campaigns have circulated similar demands and messages of solidarity with India. While the declaration of independence remains symbolic and lacks formal international backing, it has significant implications for regional stability. Analysts warn it could embolden other separatist movements within Pakistan and further complicate efforts to stabilize Balochistan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Pakistani government has yet to issue an official response to the latest developments.
Economic Times
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Economic Times
Renowned Baloch car racer Tariq Baloch becomes latest victim of Pakistan's ‘kill and dump' tactic in troubled Balochistan
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has condemned the killing of car racer Tariq Baloch, alleging it exemplifies Pakistan's 'kill and dump' policy in Balochistan. Baloch activists blame the Pakistani state for the murder, while the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claims responsibility for numerous attacks and demands international recognition of Pakistan as a terrorist state. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has strongly condemned the killing of popular car racer Tariq Baloch , calling it another example of Pakistan's ongoing 'kill and dump' policy of violence in Baloch istan. The group said his murder is part of a broader pattern of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings used to silence Baloch voices. Tariq Baloch, son of well-known racer Ibraheem Kalamati from Jiwani in Gwadar district, was reportedly abducted by Pakistan's law enforcement agencies on the night of 11 May. Just hours later, his body was found dumped in Palliri, near Jewani, on the morning of 12 was admired across Pakistan and Iran for his racing talent. "His death shows that in Balochistan, even being a public figure or a sportsman doesn't protect you," said the BYC in a was not the first time Tariq had been targeted. In February, both Tariq and his brother Salman were allegedly picked up by Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). They were released due to a lack of evidence.'This time, however, Tariq did not return alive,' the BYC said. The group criticised the 'kill and dump' tactic that has become common in the region, affecting not only activists but also students, teachers, workers and public figures. Baloch activists around the world have blamed the Pakistani state for Tariq's murder. During a rally in Quetta, Baloch leader Mahrang Baloch said, 'For every Baloch you murder, many more will rise. Our future generations will continue this resistance.'The Pakistani government has not responded to these accusations or shown any sign of addressing Baloch concerns. This has led to growing anger and political distance among the same time, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) released a statement titled 'A New Order Has Become Inevitable in the Region'. The BLA claimed that Pakistan is a global hub of terrorism and said the world must recognise it as a 'terrorist state.'According to the BLA, Pakistan's military and intelligence services support deadly terror groups like LeT, JeM and ISIS. The group also criticised Pakistan's nuclear status, calling it dangerous for global BLA said that without any outside help, they have managed to weaken a nuclear power through armed struggle. Under Operation Herof, the BLA claimed responsibility for 71 attacks across 51 locations, including areas like Quetta, Kech, Panjgur, and Nushki. These attacks reportedly targeted military bases, police stations, transport vehicles and Baloch, a spokesperson for the group, said: 'There can be no peace until Pakistan is removed. We will continue our fight for a free and peaceful Balochistan.'The BLA has asked the international community to stop ignoring Balochistan's struggle and take action before the region sees more bloodshed and from agencies
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Renowned Baloch car racer Tariq Baloch becomes latest victim of Pakistan's ‘kill and dump' tactic in troubled Balochistan
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has strongly condemned the killing of popular car racer Tariq Baloch , calling it another example of Pakistan's ongoing 'kill and dump' policy of violence in Balochistan. The group said his murder is part of a broader pattern of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings used to silence Baloch voices. Tariq Baloch, son of well-known racer Ibraheem Kalamati from Jiwani in Gwadar district, was reportedly abducted by Pakistan's law enforcement agencies on the night of 11 May. Just hours later, his body was found dumped in Palliri, near Jewani, on the morning of 12 May. — BalochYakjehtiC (@BalochYakjehtiC) Continue to video 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by Tariq was admired across Pakistan and Iran for his racing talent. "His death shows that in Balochistan, even being a public figure or a sportsman doesn't protect you," said the BYC in a statement. This was not the first time Tariq had been targeted. In February, both Tariq and his brother Salman were allegedly picked up by Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). They were released due to a lack of evidence. Live Events 'This time, however, Tariq did not return alive,' the BYC said. The group criticised the 'kill and dump' tactic that has become common in the region, affecting not only activists but also students, teachers, workers and public figures. Baloch activists around the world have blamed the Pakistani state for Tariq's murder. During a rally in Quetta, Baloch leader Mahrang Baloch said, 'For every Baloch you murder, many more will rise. Our future generations will continue this resistance.' The Pakistani government has not responded to these accusations or shown any sign of addressing Baloch concerns. This has led to growing anger and political distance among Balochs. At the same time, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) released a statement titled 'A New Order Has Become Inevitable in the Region'. The BLA claimed that Pakistan is a global hub of terrorism and said the world must recognise it as a 'terrorist state.' According to the BLA, Pakistan's military and intelligence services support deadly terror groups like LeT, JeM and ISIS. The group also criticised Pakistan's nuclear status, calling it dangerous for global peace. The BLA said that without any outside help, they have managed to weaken a nuclear power through armed struggle. Under Operation Herof, the BLA claimed responsibility for 71 attacks across 51 locations, including areas like Quetta, Kech, Panjgur, and Nushki. These attacks reportedly targeted military bases, police stations, transport vehicles and highways. Jeeyand Baloch, a spokesperson for the group, said: 'There can be no peace until Pakistan is removed. We will continue our fight for a free and peaceful Balochistan.' The BLA has asked the international community to stop ignoring Balochistan's struggle and take action before the region sees more bloodshed and instability. Inputs from agencies
Hindustan Times
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
What is Baloch Liberation Army's message to India after striking 51 locations in Pakistan?
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for 71 coordinated attacks at over 51 locations across Pakistan's Balochistan province in recent weeks as part of its ongoing 'Operation Herof'. The targets included Pakistani military and intelligence installations. In what is being claimed to be its statement, BLA on Sunday criticised Pakistan's duplicity and said it uses the language of peace as a strategic facade. HT could not independently verify the authenticity of the statement in question. Addressing India amid the current ceasefire between the two nations following Operation Sindoor, the BLA stated: 'Every talk of peace, ceasefire and brotherhood from Pakistan is merely a deception, a war tactic and a temporary ruse.' The group described Pakistan as a 'breeding ground' for global terrorists and urged the international community to declare Islamabad a terrorist state. BLA said it is 'a dynamic and decisive party' in shaping the region's future. It also signalled a geopolitical shift, declaring that 'a new order has become inevitable' in South Asia. In its statement, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) said that key strikes were carried out in areas such as Kech, Panjgur, Mastung, Quetta, Zamuran, Tolangi, Kuluki, and Nushki. The group claimed it targeted Pakistani military and intelligence sites, local police stations, vehicles transporting minerals, and infrastructure along major highways. The operations reportedly involved ambushes, IED blasts, sniper fire, targeted killings of Pakistani troops, and the seizure of security posts. The BLA urged both India and the international community to take 'decisive action' against Pakistan, warning that continued inaction could fuel further violence. 'If Pakistan continues to be tolerated, its very existence may lead to the ruin of the entire world,' the group stated, accusing the country of fostering terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. Dismissing accusations of being a proxy force, BLA maintained its autonomy in pursuing an armed campaign for Balochistan's independence. 'The BLA is neither a pawn nor a silent spectator; we are a dynamic and decisive party,' said spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is the leading armed group advocating for the Baloch people's right to self-determination. Since Balochistan's forced incorporation into Pakistan in 1948, the Baloch community has accused Islamabad of political marginalisation, resource exploitation, and systematic state violence—including extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. Despite being rich in natural resources like gas, minerals, and coastal assets, Balochistan remains among Pakistan's poorest and most underdeveloped regions. The BLA opposes the extraction of these resources without local benefit and condemns the Pakistani government's denial of Baloch rights. According to news agency ANI, human rights organisations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch report that thousands of Baloch activists, journalists, students, and political workers have allegedly been abducted or killed by Pakistani forces. Victims are often branded as "terrorists" or "foreign agents," and families are left without justice or accountability. The discovery of mass graves in several districts has deepened public distrust and highlighted the region's ongoing humanitarian crisis.
