Two Soldiers Martyred in Balochistan IED Blast as Pakistan Army Foils Terror Plot

Two Pakistani soldiers, including an army officer, were martyred after an improvised explosive device (IED) targeted a leading vehicle during an operation in Harnai, Balochistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Thursday.

The operation began after intelligence reported the presence of terrorists planning attacks on civilians in Harnai. Security forces quickly mobilized and successfully engaged the terrorists, killing three, according to the ISPR.

However, an IED exploded on the lead vehicle, claiming the lives of Major Muhammad Haseeb (28) from Multan and Havildar Noor Ahmed (38) from Barkhan. The ISPR statement honored their bravery, highlighting that Major Haseeb was leading his troops from the front.

Pakistan Army affirmed its commitment, in unity with the nation, to counter terrorism and uphold peace in Balochistan, noting that such sacrifices strengthen their resolve to combat threats against stability.

Pakistan has seen an uptick in terrorist activities, particularly in KP and Balochistan, since the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan. The latest attack follows a suicide bombing at Quetta’s railway station last week, which killed at least 27 and injured over 60.

A recent report from the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) indicated a 90% surge in violence for the July-September quarter of 2024, with 722 fatalities and 615 injuries across 328 incidents. KP and Balochistan accounted for nearly 97% of these deaths, marking a grim peak in violence over the past decade.