Pakistani Military Claims 92 Rebels Killed in Balochistan Clearance Operation After Coordinated Attacks

 Islamabad. The Pakistani military stated that at least 92 rebels were killed in a clearance operation launched following coordinated attacks in the southwestern province of Balochistan on Saturday. According to the army, 15 security personnel and 18 civilians were also killed in the clashes.

The Pakistani government has accused India of supporting these attacks, but India has repeatedly denied this allegation.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attacks, asserting that dozens of soldiers were killed. However, claims from both sides could not be independently verified.

The army stated that the rebels targeted civilian areas, police and paramilitary centers, jails, and government buildings in Quetta and surrounding cities. During the security operation, roads around the main administrative building in Quetta were closed, mobile services were disrupted, and rail service was temporarily halted.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the army, stating that the war would continue until terrorism is completely eradicated. An armed insurgency against the federal government has been ongoing in Balochistan since 1948. 

The BLA alleges that Islamabad is exploiting mineral resources without benefiting the local population. Human rights activists claim that the government is responsible for enforced disappearances in this region. 

The government has consistently denied these allegations. This province, which covers 44 percent of Pakistan's land area, is considered rich in natural gas and minerals. However, only about 5 percent of the country's total population resides here.