Pakistan has been ranked first globally on the latest Global Terrorism Index, marking a concerning surge in terrorism-related fatalities. The country experienced a six percent increase in such deaths, reaching 1,139 in 2025. This places Pakistan at the forefront of nations assessed for the impact of terrorism by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) in its comprehensive 2026 report.

The report highlights that Pakistan’s security landscape is significantly challenged by its delicate relationship with neighboring Afghanistan. Furthermore, escalating violence attributed to banned groups like the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) are identified as key contributors to the heightened risks. These factors have collectively pushed terrorism-related deaths in Pakistan to their highest point since 2013.

The TTP has emerged as the most lethal terrorist organization within Pakistan and the third deadliest worldwide, according to the findings. Since 2009, TTP attacks have accounted for over 67 percent of all terrorist incidents in Pakistan, significantly outnumbering the next most active group, the BLA. This organization has shown a distinct increase in its activity, with incidents rising by 24 percent in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Most of the TTP’s reported attacks occurred in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, particularly in areas close to the Afghan border. In 2025 alone, the TTP was responsible for at least 637 deaths, representing 56 percent of the nation’s total terrorism-related fatalities and the highest figure attributed to the group since 2011. One of the TTP’s largest attacks last year targeted military forces, resulting in 21 fatalities.

The report underscores the profound impact of the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan on Pakistan’s security and stability. It suggests this event has provided fertile ground for extremist elements to operate, exacerbating existing challenges for Pakistan. The intricate interplay of regional dynamics and internal security threats continues to shape the nation’s counter-terrorism efforts.