In March 2025, Pakistan experienced a significant surge in militant attacks, marking the deadliest month since 2015. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported 105 militant incidents, resulting in 228 fatalities and 258 injuries. The provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan were the most affected, though Punjab and Sindh also saw increased militant activities. This alarming rise in violence underscores the persistent security challenges Pakistan faces and highlights the critical need for effective counter-terrorism strategies.
Geographical Distribution of Attacks
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): The province reported 206 deaths, including 49 security personnel, 34 civilians, and 123 militants. The tribal districts within KP, formerly part of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), were particularly impacted, with 82 fatalities.
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Balochistan: At least 122 fatalities were recorded, comprising 40 civilians and 37 security personnel. Notably, the province experienced three suicide bombings, two claimed by factions of the separatist Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). The March 11 hijacking of the Jaffar Express train further intensified the security crisis, resulting in 26 hostages and 33 militants dead.
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Punjab: Seven attacks were documented, primarily in Dera Ghazi Khan, marking the highest number of incidents in the province in a single month over the past decade. Additionally, six individuals were killed, and 22 suspected militants were arrested in Lahore.
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Sindh: The province witnessed three low-intensity attacks, including one claimed by Daesh.
Government’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts
In response to the escalating violence, the Pakistani government has undertaken several initiatives aimed at eradicating terrorism and promoting national stability.
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Operation Azm-e-Istehkam: In June 2024, Pakistan launched Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, translating to “resolve for stability,” to comprehensively combat extremism and terrorism. This operation integrates kinetic military actions with non-kinetic measures, emphasizing a whole-of-society approach to address the root causes of extremism
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National Prevention of Violent Extremism (NPVE) Policy: Approved by the federal government in December 2024, the NPVE policy aims to foster peace and unity by addressing the underlying factors contributing to violent extremism. Developed by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), the policy focuses on community engagement, educational reforms, and the promotion of social cohesion. It underscores the importance of a whole-of-society approach, involving various stakeholders to effectively counter extremism.
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Enhanced Security Measures for Foreign Nationals: Recognizing the threats posed to foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens working on projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Pakistan has intensified security protocols. Discussions between Pakistani and Chinese officials have led to the development of comprehensive security measures, including improved information sharing and the formulation of new standard operating procedures to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals.
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Addressing Cross-Border Terrorism: Pakistan has consistently expressed concerns regarding the use of Afghan territory by militant groups to launch attacks. Diplomatic engagements with Afghan authorities aim to prevent the misuse of Afghan soil and to foster regional cooperation in combating terrorism. The Pakistani Armed Forces have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the nation from cross-border threats and are prepared to take necessary actions to counter such challenges.
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Regulation of Foreign Nationals: To mitigate security risks, Pakistan announced plans to expel undocumented foreign nationals, predominantly Afghans, by the end of 2025. This initiative seeks to address concerns related to illegal residency and potential security threats. However, it has faced criticism from human rights organizations, particularly regarding the deportation of vulnerable groups such as Afghan women’s rights activists who fear persecution upon return to Afghanistan.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite these efforts, Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategies face several challenges:
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Implementation Hurdles: The ambitious scope of policies like the NPVE requires effective execution across various governmental and societal levels. Analysts have raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing such comprehensive strategies, given past experiences where well-intentioned policies faltered due to poor execution.
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Civil-Military Dynamics: The dominance of military institutions in Pakistan’s security policies poses questions about the balance between civilian oversight and military operations. Ensuring that civilian bodies like NACTA have the authority and resources to implement non-kinetic measures is crucial for the success of holistic counter-terrorism approaches.
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Human Rights Concerns: Operations aimed at combating terrorism have sometimes resulted in civilian casualties, leading to public outcry and protests. For instance, an anti-militant operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Katlang area resulted in the deaths of 10 civilians, including women and children.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s recent surge in militant attacks underscores the persistent and evolving nature of security threats facing the nation. The government’s multifaceted approach, encompassing military operations, policy reforms, and regional diplomacy, reflects a comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism. However, the effectiveness of these measures hinges on robust implementation, respect for human rights, and the active involvement of all sectors of society. Continued vigilance, adaptability, and collaboration are essential to achieving lasting peace and stability in Pakistan.
