Pakistan to Seek UN Designation of BLA as Terrorist Group

Following a significant diplomatic achievement in Washington, Pakistan is set to present a request before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to classify the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its militant wing, the Majeed Brigade, as terrorist entities.

The United States recently designated the Majeed Brigade as a terrorist organization. The BLA was already placed on the list in 2019. This diplomatic advancement is anticipated to greatly uplift the morale of Pakistan’s security forces as they gear up to intensify their operations against these groups.

The Majeed Brigade, known as the BLA’s most lethal faction, is notorious for its use of suicide bombings—a rare tactic among secular militant organizations. They have also deployed female bombers to attack military units and sites.

A diplomatic source mentioned that Pakistan intends to address this matter at the UNSC, stating that the timing is optimal, especially after Washington’s designation.

Pakistan’s role as the vice-chair of the UNSC’s Counter-Terrorism Committee enhances its impact and access to crucial decision-makers.

However, the source noted that these procedures take time, advising against expecting immediate results.

In the past, groups such as Jaish-e-Muhammad and its leader Masood Azhar, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were eventually added to the UNSC’s list of terrorist organizations. This was achieved after years of persistent efforts, often facing delays from China in response to proposals from India.

Diplomats are optimistic that Pakistan is favorably positioned to achieve a similar outcome this time, though they acknowledge the possibility of a veto, potentially used to appease India. Still, India’s opposition might undermine its stance, as such resistance could be seen as indirect backing of Baloch militants.

For over two decades, Pakistan has grappled with an escalating insurgency in Balochistan. India is often accused of instigating the unrest. An Indian spy, Kulbhushan Jadhav, was apprehended in the area.

Pakistan has consistently voiced its concerns in global forums. Earlier this year, amid clashes between Pakistan and India in May, the BLA openly declared its support for India and offered complete cooperation.

The US has not only designated these entities as terrorist groups but has also committed to enhancing counterterrorism cooperation, specifically targeting outlawed organizations like the BLA.

The explicit mention of the BLA in a joint statement, following the recent counterterrorism discussions, signifies a notable advancement, suggesting potentially coordinated operations between the two nations in the coming weeks and months.

“Both delegations underscored the critical importance of developing effective approaches to terrorist threats, including those posed by Balochistan Liberation Army, ISIS-Khorasan and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan,” the statement noted.