New Delhi, August 3: Violent incidents are escalating across multiple fronts in Pakistan. Tensions are high along the border with Afghanistan, in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), and particularly in Balochistan, where clashes between the Pakistani army and Baloch people continue.
In recent months, Pakistani security forces have suffered significant losses in various attacks. The military’s General Headquarters has initiated operations that are reported to be large-scale and intelligence-driven.
On July 6, Pakistani security and law enforcement agencies launched ‘Operation Shaban’ in response to an attack by Baloch rebels on a police post at the Mangi Dam pumping station in Ziarat. Concurrently, the Pakistani army began ‘Operation Al-Azm’ in Balochistan. However, it has become evident that the army’s units in the province have weakened considerably.
Despite the Pakistani army’s recent actions, which include enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, Baloch fighters have mounted a strong resistance. They have demonstrated their ability to coordinate difficult attacks and have shown resilience in their reach and capabilities.
Although Pakistan’s central and provincial security and intelligence agencies maintain a significant presence in Balochistan, including the army, air force, navy, and coast guard, the army remains the most crucial.
The deep-water port of Gwadar in western Balochistan serves as a primary base and is Pakistan’s second-largest port after Karachi. The Pakistan Coast Guard’s third battalion is stationed here, along with three smaller naval bases in Pasni, Ormara, and Jiwani. Additionally, the Pakistani intelligence system is heavily deployed in the region. The Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate (ISI) is responsible for strategic intelligence and has a substantial presence in Quetta.
Despite the large military deployment, the Pakistani government struggles to maintain control over vast areas of Balochistan. The province, rich in natural resources, has a population that largely lives below the poverty line, fostering deep resentment towards the Pakistani government.
The Baloch people view the Pakistani government as a plunderer, exploiting their natural resources and treating the region like a colony. Anti-Pakistan sentiment is so strong within Baloch society that it has become nearly impossible for the army to gather reliable intelligence about Baloch fighters from local residents. Without accurate ground information, any military operation is likely to fail.
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