ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The United States on Friday reaffirmed its support for Pakistan in the wake of recent militant attacks in Balochistan, emphasizing its commitment to holding the perpetrators accountable.
In a post on X, the US State Department’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) described the attacks as “horrific” and said the bureau stands “steadfast with Pakistan” during this challenging time. The statement also highlighted that the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) remains a designated Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO).
The BLA, along with its alias the Majeed Brigade, was added to the US FTO list in August 2025. FTO designations, made under Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by the Secretary of State, are intended to curtail support for terrorist activities and pressure groups to abandon violence.
“We support efforts to hold the perpetrators of these horrific attacks accountable,” the bureau added.
The remarks came after Pakistan’s security forces concluded Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 on Thursday, which targeted militant networks across Balochistan. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation resulted in the elimination of 216 terrorists and the seizure of a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives.
The military said the operation followed a series of coordinated attacks on January 31 that disrupted normal life in several areas. During the attacks, 36 civilians—including women and children—and 22 security personnel lost their lives. The ISPR alleged that the militants involved were Indian-sponsored elements.
The attacks have also drawn international condemnation, with United Nations officials urging accountability and emphasizing the need to bring those responsible to justice.