Balochistan’s escalating clashes between insurgents and the military aren’t new—they stem from long-standing oppression by Pakistan’s army, a new report reveals. This isn’t mere regional unrest; it’s a symptom of the state’s foundational weaknesses.
As detailed in Eurasia Review, militarization of politics invites catastrophe. The army’s encroachment on civilian domains has destabilized the nation.
While the government accuses external powers, Baloch voices decry authoritarian central policies: neglect, rights violations, and plundering of resources. Years of such treatment have ignited fury.
Balochistan may be economically marginal due to its barren expanse, but it’s pitched as a treasure trove. CPEC funnels Chinese funds here, and Pakistan courts American mining investments. Its mineral wealth—copper, gold, coal, gas—promises economic salvation.
Security blanket notwithstanding, attacks continue, proving militarization’s limits. Strategically, the province is priceless: Arabian Sea gateway, neighbor to Iran and Afghanistan, vital for China’s ocean link.
Recent upticks in demonstrations and bloodshed coincide with Army Chief Asim Munir’s tenure. His Field Marshal elevation has strained civil-military ties further, creating deadlock.
Post-2019 crackdowns minimized reported losses while ignoring disappearances, staged killings, and activist detentions. No fixes in sight.
Treating it as just ‘security,’ Islamabad suppresses political dissent through crackdowns on protests, silencing media, and threats.
Ultimately, the analysis warns, Balochistan threatens to undermine Pakistan’s very future.