Balochistan's Extremist Surge: ISI-Backed Groups Attack Security Forces
Pakistan's Balochistan province has witnessed a surge in extremist activity, with groups linked to the ISI forming alliances and targeting security forces. Meanwhile, General Asim Munir's international reputation has taken a hit, and the IMF has raised concerns about Pakistan's economic management.
In recent weeks, extremist groups such as Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army have joined forces, carrying out attacks in Balochistan. This is not a new tactic; Lashkar-e-Jhangvi was deployed in the 1990s but faced resistance from locals.
General Asim Munir's global standing has been affected. During a U.S. trip, he was mocked for presenting rare earth minerals to Donald Trump in a manner described as 'like a salesman'.
The ISI has brokered an alliance between LeT and ISKP, with their leaders, Nizam-e-Ala Mohammed Ashfaq and Mir Shafiq Mengal, meeting together. However, Baloch fighters have derailed Pakistan's Zafar Express seven times in 2025, causing injuries and deaths, highlighting Islamabad's struggle against the insurgency.
The IMF has accused Pakistan of manipulating trade data by $11 billion, warning of stricter loan terms due to economic mismanagement. Pakistan has sealed a USD 500 million deal to supply critical minerals to an American firm, but Imran Khan's PTI is demanding transparency on this secret agreement.
The escalating extremist activity in Balochistan and the international criticism of General Asim Munir's actions raise concerns about Pakistan's internal security and international reputation. The IMF's warning on economic mismanagement adds further pressure on the government.
