On Wednesday, a suicide bomber targeted a school bus in Pakistan, resulting in the deaths of five individuals, including at least three children, and leaving 38 injured. This incident marks the latest act of violence in Balochistan, an area long plagued by rebellion, particularly from separatist groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which was classified as a terrorist organization by the US in 2019.
Local deputy commissioner Yasir Iqbal stated that the bombing happened on the outskirts of Kuduzar city as buses were transporting children to military schools in the vicinity. Victims were quickly taken to the hospital by ambulance, while military personnel arrived promptly to secure the area.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, but ethnic Baloch separatists, known for targeting local security forces and civilians, may be involved. Pakistani Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack, expressing profound sadness over the loss of young lives. He described the attacker as a “beast,” unworthy of compassion, and condemned the act as a “purely barbaric assault on innocent children.”
Initially, reports indicated that four children had died, but officials later revised this to five fatalities, which also included two adults. There are concerns that the number might increase as some children remain in critical condition.
The military characterized the bombing as a “horrifying attack” linked to India, claiming it was orchestrated by elements within Balochistan. Many previous attacks in the region have been attributed to the BLA, which asserts that its actions are motivated by perceived Indian support. However, India has denied these allegations.
Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif expressed his sorrow over the incident and also pointed fingers at India, without presenting any substantial evidence. He referred to the attack as proof of aggression towards education in Balochistan and pledged to bring those responsible to justice.
Regular accusations from Pakistani officials towards India concerning domestic violence have escalated amid rising tensions, particularly following a recent confrontation in the contested Kashmir region. Both nations claim parts of Kashmir, leading to fears of a broader conflict, with the BLA attempting to seek help from India, though no response from India has been forthcoming.
