In a tragic incident in northwestern Pakistan, violence between rival tribes has claimed the lives of at least 11 people, with eight others sustaining injuries, including women and children. The unrest in Kurram district escalated after a shooting incident left two individuals critically wounded, sparking further violence throughout the area. Vehicles were targeted in various locations, resulting in additional casualties, as reported by senior official Javedullah Khan.
Efforts are currently underway to restore peace and secure travel routes in the district, with the injured individuals receiving medical attention at a local hospital. Former parliamentarian Pir Haider Ali Shah stated that tribal elders were working towards mediating a peace agreement between the feuding factions, lamenting the recent incidents that have disrupted peace-building efforts.
A separatist group known as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has also made headlines after claiming responsibility for an attack that resulted in the deaths of 21 individuals in southwest Pakistan. The BLA alleged that their fighters launched an assault on a coal mine in Dukki district using heavy weaponry, resulting in a higher death toll of 30 and 18 injured. The group accused Pakistani security personnel of disguising themselves as workers and vowed more attacks unless the military withdraws from the province.
Balochistan, known for its rich oil and mineral resources, has been a focal point of armed movements, with the BLA leading the charge against perceived exploitation by the central government in Islamabad. The province, which shares borders with Iran and Afghanistan, has seen ongoing tensions with militant groups seeking independence.
Recent attacks targeting Chinese nationals near Pakistan’s largest airport have also raised concerns, with the BLA claiming responsibility for the incident. The Chinese embassy confirmed the deaths of two citizens and injuries to a third after a convoy was hit by an improvised explosive device, suspected to have been detonated by a suicide bomber. The violent episode left a trail of destruction, underscoring the volatile situation in the region.