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Field Marshal Asim Munir told Balochistan leaders that militants in the province are foreign-backed proxies. His remarks reinforce Pakistan's position as the BLA intensifies attacks on security forces, civilians and CPEC-linked targets.
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Islamabad,UPDATED: Aug 21, 2026 12:58 IST
Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Friday described militants active in Balochistan as "foreign-sponsored proxies" working to destabilise the restive province. He made the remarks during an interaction with prominent figures and political leaders from Balochistan, according to a statement issued by the army.
Munir also said the present and future of Balochistan and Pakistan are "one and forever". His comments came against the backdrop of a long-running separatist insurgency in the mineral-rich province, led by groups including the outlawed Balochistan Liberation Army, or BLA, which seeks independence.
Without naming any country, Munir alleged that militants active in the province "are foreign-sponsored proxies being employed by hostile elements to destabilise Balochistan, obstruct its development and create a wedge between the state and its people".
He said the destiny of Balochistan rests only in the hands of its people. Insurgents demanding independence for Balochistan have alleged political marginalisation and exploitation of the province's natural resources by the central government.
The BLA has in recent years stepped up attacks targeting security forces, government installations, Chinese nationals and projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
In July, militants attacked a police check post in the Ziarat area, in which 27 policemen were killed. In May, the BLA carried out a suicide bombing on a shuttle train in Quetta, killing at least 47 people and injuring 98 others.
In January, the group carried out coordinated attacks across several districts of the province, targeting security installations, government buildings and civilian areas, resulting in the deaths of at least 31 civilians and 17 security personnel. In March 2025, the BLA hijacked a train in Bolan, killing at least 59 people and taking hundreds more hostage.
Munir's remarks underscored Pakistan's position on the insurgency in Balochistan, where separatist violence has continued and the BLA has carried out a series of major attacks this year and earlier.
With PTI Inputs
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Published By:
India Today Web Desk
Published On:
Aug 21, 2026 12:58 IST
