Pakistan frees Balochistan train hostages after deadly standoff with BLA fighters

Dozens of soldiers and security personnel were killed in a standoff between Pakistani forces and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) fighters, who attacked and derailed a train in Bolan district, taking hundreds of passengers hostage. Security forces conducted an overnight operation, freeing 200 hostages and neutralising 33 fighters. The BLA, responsible for 225 deaths last year, claimed responsibility, raising concerns over inadequate train security. Military officials described the operation as successful, despite significant casualties. Balochistan remains highly volatile, with ongoing safety issues and escalating separatist violence.

Al Jazeera’s Kamal Hyder reports from Quetta, Pakistan.
Adnan Aamir is a security analyst. He joins us live from Islamabad to discuss the latest developments.

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Post from Al Jazeera on March 12, 2025

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