Violence in Pakistan saw a significant 32% decline in Q2 2025 compared to the first quarter of the year, with total fatalities dropping from 900 to 615. The decline reflects strengthened counter-terrorism operations and changing regional dynamics.

Key Highlights

  • Fatality Reduction:
    Fatalities from violent incidents decreased by 285, marking one of the most notable quarterly improvements in recent years.
  • Incident Count:
    A total of 273 violent incidents were recorded, involving terrorism, insurgency, and security operations. These incidents resulted in 388 injuries across the country.
  • Provincial Breakdown:
    • Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P): Fatalities dropped by 32%, from 567 to 389.
    • Balochistan: Witnessed a 40% decline in deaths, from 317 to 190.
      Together, these provinces accounted for more than 94% of total fatalities and 93% of violent incidents.
  • Emerging Trends:
    • Punjab: Saw a 162% increase in fatalities, rising from 8 in Q1 to 21 in Q2, raising concerns about growing militant activity in previously calmer regions.
    • Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK): Reported fatalities for the first time in the year, with six deaths recorded in Q2.
  • Civilians at Risk:
    Out of the 107 recorded terrorist attacks, the majority of casualties were civilians. At least 249 civilians were injured, compared to 120 injuries among security forces.
  • Counter-Terrorism Impact:
    The proportion of militant deaths rose to 55%, compared to the 35% average recorded during 2021–2024. This shift indicates increasingly successful operations by law enforcement and military units.

Summary

  • Overall violence declined 32% in Q2 2025.
  • K-P and Balochistan still experience the most violence but show large improvements.
  • Militancy shows signs of spreading to Punjab and AJK.
  • Civilians remain the most affected group.
  • Counter-terrorism operations are increasingly effective.