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A suicide car bomber targeted a school bus in Pakistan on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of five individuals, including at least three children. The attack also left 38 others injured, according to local officials.
This incident marks another violent episode in Balochistan province, an area grappling with ongoing insurgency activities. Various separatist groups operate in this region, with the Balochistan Liberation Army, known as BLA, classified as a terrorist organization by the United States since 2019.
Details of the Attack
Yasir Iqbal, a local deputy commissioner, reported that the bombing occurred on the outskirts of Khuduzar while the bus was transporting children to their military-run educational institution. The swift response from troops allowed for the area to be cordoned off, while ambulances raced to deliver the injured to hospitals.
Immediate Aftermath and Reactions
No group has yet claimed responsibility for this brutal assault. Nonetheless, ethnic Baloch separatists, who frequently engage in attacks against both security forces and civilians, are viewed as the likely perpetrators.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack vehemently, expressing profound sorrow over the children’s deaths. Naqvi described the attackers as “beasts” and characterized their act as “sheer barbarism targeting innocent children.” His words reflect a growing outrage within Pakistani society regarding the safety of its youth in conflict zones.
Casualties and Rising Concerns
Initial reports indicated that four children were among the deceased; however, later updates revised this figure to show that two adults also lost their lives in the attack. As many children remain in critical condition, there is concern that the death toll could increase.
Military’s Perspective
The military reacted to the bombing by labeling it as a “cowardly and ghastly attack” and alleged that it had been planned by neighboring India and executed with the help of its proxies in Balochistan. This point adds to the complex narrative of blame that often accompanies violence in the region.
Traditionally, most attacks in this province have been attributed to the BLA, which Pakistan claims operates under the protection of India. Nevertheless, India has vehemently denied these allegations, asserting its non-involvement in the conflict.
Political Responses and Accusations
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his condolences following the attack, further implicating India by claiming the assault on a school bus emphasized India’s hostility toward education in Balochistan. He vowed to bring those responsible to justice, underscoring the government’s commitment to confronting the violence that plagues its regions.
Pakistan’s officials frequently accuse India of instigating violence within their borders. These accusations have gained momentum amid rising tensions between the two nations, especially in the wake of a recent escalation over the disputed region of Kashmir. Both Pakistan and India claim full sovereignty over Kashmir, a contentious issue that continues to fuel conflict.
Broader Implications of Growing Violence
The latest attack has ignited concerns about the possibility of a broader war, particularly as the BLA sought support from India amid this escalation. However, there has been no public commentary from Indian officials regarding this appeal.
Calls for International Attention
In light of such tragedies, there is an urgent need for international attention on the escalating violence in Balochistan and the safety of its children. The incident has rekindled debates on how global powers can intervene or provide support in resolving the myriad issues afflicting this volatile region.
This devastating event serves as a reminder of the ongoing human cost of conflict in Pakistan. Civilians, especially children, often bear the brunt of political strife and insurgency, leading to dire consequences for future generations.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
