Islamabad, Pakistan – The international community has strongly condemned the heinous terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express, a passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, which was hijacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) on March 11, 2025. The attack, which claimed at least 64 lives, including 18 soldiers and 33 terrorists, has once again put Pakistan’s counterterrorism fight at the forefront of global discourse.
The train, carrying approximately 450 passengers, was halted in a remote mountainous region between Pehro Kunri and Mushkaf stations following a series of eight IED explosions on the tracks. Armed BLA militants opened fire on stranded passengers before issuing a 48-hour ultimatum, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners.
In a swift response, Pakistan Armed Forces launched ‘Operation Green Bolan’, successfully neutralizing 33 militants and rescuing 354 hostages in a decisive counterterrorism operation.
Global Reactions: Strong Support for Pakistan
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) released a statement through its President Christina Markus Lassen (Denmark), describing the attack as “heinous and cowardly” and offering condolences to the victims and their families.
“This reprehensible act of terrorism resulted in the grievous loss of at least 25 Pakistani nationals. The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed that the attack was carried out by its Majeed Brigade,” the UNSC statement read.
The Council emphasized that terrorism remains one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, urging for urgent action against the perpetrators.
“The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice,” the statement added.
It further stressed that “any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever, and by whomsoever committed”, urging global efforts under international law to combat terrorism.
OIC Expresses Solidarity with Pakistan
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also strongly condemned the attack, reaffirming its rejection of all forms of terrorism.
“OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha extended his deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the families of the victims,” the OIC stated.
“He reiterated the OIC’s solidarity with the people and government of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism,” it added.
Pakistan has been battling terrorist groups for decades, with Baloch separatists and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) posing security challenges in different regions.
United States
The US Embassy in Islamabad reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts.
“The United States stands in solidarity with Pakistan during this time and will remain its steadfast partner in efforts to ensure the safety and security of all its citizens. The Pakistani people deserve to live free from violence and fear.”
United Kingdom
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the attack, calling for global action against terrorism.
“The United Kingdom condemns the terrorist attack in Balochistan. Our thoughts are with the loved ones of those who have lost their lives.”
France
The French Embassy in Pakistan expressed grief and extended its condolences.
“The Embassy of France in Pakistan strongly condemns the heinous terrorist attack on Jaffar Express in Balochistan. We express our deepest sympathy to the victims and their loved ones.”
China
China, a key strategic ally of Pakistan, reaffirmed its security cooperation and counterterrorism partnership.
“China has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on Jaffar Express in Balochistan and vowed to continue its firm support to Pakistan in combating terrorism. China stands ready to strengthen counter-terrorism and security cooperation with Pakistan.”
Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin personally conveyed his condolences to Pakistan.
“Please accept my profound condolences on the tragic aftermath of the terrorist attack on a passenger train in the Province of Balochistan.”
Saudi Arabia
The Saudi government denounced the attack and pledged support to Pakistan.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Jaffar Express in Balochistan. We stand with Pakistan in this difficult time and reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
Turkey
Turkey pledged continued counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan.
“We strongly condemn the heinous attack in Balochistan. Turkey stands with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism and conveys its heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.”
Germany
Germany called for accountability and justice against perpetrators of terrorism.
“Germany strongly condemns the terrorist attack in Balochistan. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we urge for justice against those responsible.”
European Union
The EU’s External Action Service emphasized the need for global counterterrorism collaboration.
“The European Union strongly condemns the terrorist attack in Pakistan and expresses condolences to the families of the victims. Global efforts are needed to eliminate the scourge of terrorism.”
Accusations and Regional Tensions
Following the attack, Pakistan accused Afghanistan and India of backing BLA militants, citing intelligence reports linking foreign entities to the training and funding of terrorists.
In response, Afghan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi took to X (formerly Twitter) to reject what he called “baseless accusations”, urging Pakistan to focus on its internal security issues rather than making “such irresponsible remarks.”
Similarly, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal dismissed Pakistan’s allegations, stating:
“Pakistan must look inwards instead of pointing fingers and shifting the blame for its internal problems and failures on to others.”
Pakistan has consistently maintained that foreign-backed militant groups, including the BLA and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), operate from Afghan soil with tacit support from hostile intelligence agencies. The latest attack has further intensified diplomatic tensions, with Islamabad calling for stricter international oversight on terrorist sanctuaries in the region.
Regional Implications & Security Measures
The Jaffar Express attack has once again raised serious concerns over regional security. Pakistan Railways has temporarily suspended train operations between Balochistan and the provinces of Punjab and Sindh while implementing new security protocols, including:
- Increased railway patrols
- Stricter passenger inspections
- Enhanced intelligence-based operations
The Pakistan National Assembly unanimously passed a resolution condemning the attack, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowing that “enemies of peace have been sent to hell.”
Post-9/11 Fallout: Pakistan’s Enduring Counterterrorism Battle
Since the post-9/11 era, Pakistan has been at the forefront of counterterrorism efforts, bearing the brunt of militant violence while playing a key role in global security. The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 significantly altered regional dynamics, creating ungoverned spaces that have emboldened militant groups like the BLA and TTP.
Despite launching some of the world’s most extensive counterterrorism operations, such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, Pakistan continues to grapple with the aftershocks of two decades of war, as foreign-backed terrorists attempt to destabilize its security apparatus.
The Jaffar Express attack highlights the ongoing challenge of securing Pakistan’s vast infrastructure and the urgent need for regional intelligence cooperation. As Pakistan fortifies its counterterrorism strategy, global allies have reiterated their commitment to working alongside Islamabad in eliminating terrorism from the region.
Also See: The Cost of BLA’s War on Pakistan’s Unity and Lives
Pakistan’s Resolve: A Nation Standing Strong
With Pakistan taking swift military action to eliminate the perpetrators and fortify its security measures, the nation remains steadfast in its commitment to defeating terrorism. The international solidarity shown in the aftermath of the attack highlights Pakistan’s crucial role in global security efforts and the urgent need for collective action against militant groups operating in the region.
As Islamabad deals with these evolving threats, one message remains clear: Pakistan will not bow to terrorism.
