WASHINGTON( The COW News Digital) The United States government has officially designated the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the banned Majid Brigade as terrorist organizations, reinforcing its commitment to combating terrorism globally.
According to a statement issued by the US Department of State, both the BLA and Majid Brigade have been declared international terrorist organizations. While the BLA had already been listed as a global terrorist group, the Majid Brigade has now also been formally recognized as an international terrorist entity.
The announcement underscores the Trump administration’s ongoing determination to prevent terrorism and enhance security worldwide.
In his statement, the US Secretary of State highlighted that the BLA has claimed responsibility for several deadly attacks, including assaults on Karachi Airport and the Gwadar Port complex, both critical infrastructure targets in Pakistan.
The statement further noted that the BLA also took responsibility for the notorious attack on the Jaffar Express train, which resulted in the deaths of 31 people and the hostage-taking of approximately 300 passengers.
The US government’s move to designate these groups as terrorist organizations aims to cut off their financial networks, disrupt their operational capabilities, and send a clear message that acts of violence and terrorism will not be tolerated.
Pakistan has long maintained that groups like the BLA and Majid Brigade are involved in separatist and militant activities, which threaten the country’s sovereignty and regional stability. This designation by the US aligns with Pakistan’s efforts to curb terrorism within its borders.
The State Department’s designation involves placing sanctions on the groups and their leaders, restricting their ability to access international financial systems and limiting their movements globally.
Experts say that such international recognition also increases pressure on countries to cooperate in intelligence sharing and counterterrorism operations.
This announcement comes amid heightened concerns over militancy and security challenges in South Asia, particularly in areas affected by insurgency and separatist movements.
Pakistan’s government has welcomed the US decision, stating that it bolsters the fight against terrorism and supports Pakistan’s national security interests.
The designation of BLA and Majid Brigade is expected to further tighten global measures against these groups and reduce their capacity to carry out attacks.