Sino-Pakistani Counterterrorism Collaboration Grows

The Pakistan government’s recent announcement regarding a comprehensive military operation in Balochistan has garnered significant attention amidst a backdrop of rising terror attacks in the country.

The decision, made by the Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan, which includes all military services’ chiefs and the top civilian leadership, underscores a concerted effort to address the escalating threat posed by terrorist organizations operating in this strategically important province.

The operation is aimed at combating groups that have been targeting civilians and foreign nationals, with a view to disrupt Pakistan’s economic progress through acts of violence orchestrated by hostile external powers. It is a response to ongoing security challenges, particularly those associated with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and other outlawed factions that have increasingly targeted Chinese nationals and Pakistani security forces.

Moreover, it is essential to acknowledge that Balochistan is not the only province facing heightened insecurity. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has also seen a surge in militant activities attributed to groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its affiliates.

While specifics regarding the newly announced military operation, such as whether it will incorporate ground or air strikes or target specific districts along the Iran border, have not been disclosed, there are indications that the strategy will involve coordination with China.

This collaboration is particularly pertinent given China’s concerns for its citizens following numerous attacks linked to Baloch militant groups.

Earlier this year, reports suggested that China had urged Pakistan to undertake substantial offensive measures against these militants, reminiscent of Operation Zarb-e-Azb — a campaign that successfully neutralized TTP strongholds in tribal areas nearly a decade ago.

Notably, the announcement of a new military operation in Balochistan follows previous declarations regarding Operation Azm-e-Istehkam.

The announcement of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam in earlier this year triggered significant debate across Pakistan, raising questions regarding the government’s intentions. In response to these concerns, government officials clarified that the operation was intended to accelerate ongoing counterterror offensives rather than introduce a new strategy. As part of the operation, the objective was reportedly to engage regional players in an effort to diminish the support base for militant groups operating outside Pakistan’s borders.

This latest operation targeting Balochistan appears to align with the broader strategy being followed under Azm-e-Istehkam that emphasizes intelligence-based operations throughout the province. It is important to note that this approach will not entail a substantial deployment of troops aimed at clearing vast areas within Balochistan. Instead, it seems to focus on enhancing coordination between Pakistan and China in addressing militant threats.

Balochistan has long grappled with issues related to militancy, and previous operations have failed to significantly alter this troubling trend. The province’s expansive territory presents challenges for containment strategies against hit-and-run tactics, ambushes, and suicide bombings. Militants benefit from their proximity to borders with Afghanistan and Iran, utilizing hideouts across these regions that complicate any major ground offensive by Pakistani forces.

As part of the operation in Balochistan, Pakistan may adopt a more assertive stance in seeking China’s assistance in exerting pressure on Baloch militant sanctuaries located beyond its borders. Recent developments indicate that Pakistan has presented evidence of terrorist support originating from Afghanistan during discussions with Chinese officials. Notably, China’s envoy for Afghanistan has visited Pakistan as part of these diplomatic engagements.

China’s involvement could signify an emerging role in assisting Pakistan with its counterterrorism efforts related specifically to Afghanistan. This collaboration aims to restore stability in Balochistan — a region critical for both the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project and China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Ultimately, while the operation in Balochistan may not represent a departure from existing anti-terror strategies on the ground, it signals a renewed commitment by Pakistani authorities to enhance military efforts coupled with regional initiatives aimed at isolating militant support networks. The effectiveness of this approach remains uncertain and will be closely monitored as developments unfold.

In light of these developments, stakeholders within Pakistan’s political landscape must engage in transparent dialogue regarding operational objectives and expected outcomes. Such discussions will not only clarify governmental strategies but also foster trust among citizens who seek assurance amid rising threats from extremist elements.