The attack on the Jaffer Express was not just an act of terrorism; it was part of a larger plan to destabilize Pakistan. This incident, carried out by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), was meant to create fear and chaos, targeting innocent civilians. However, thanks to the swift and brave response of Pakistan’s security forces, all passengers were rescued, and the terrorists were neutralized. This was not an ordinary attack but a carefully planned operation meant to send a message. The real question is, who was behind it, and why now?
If we examine the pattern of such attacks, it becomes clear that India has changed its approach in its covert war against Pakistan. In the past, Indian involvement in destabilizing Pakistan was more direct, whether through its intelligence agencies or diplomatic direction. However, as Pakistan’s counterterrorism measures have strengthened, India has adapted its tactics. Now, rather than being directly involved, India is using third parties, exploiting regional situations to create instability in Pakistan.
One such opportunity came with Pakistan’s recent decision to deport illegal Afghan nationals. This decision was a necessary step for national security, aimed at ensuring that undocumented individuals do not pose risks to Pakistan’s internal stability. However, India saw this as an opportunity to manipulate the situation to its advantage. By fueling resentment among certain Afghan circles and pushing propaganda through social and mainstream media, India created the perfect scenario to provoke anti-Pakistan sentiments. This, in turn, enabled groups like the BLA to launch coordinated attacks under the false pretense of “retaliation” against Pakistan’s policies in exchange for the release of their counterparts.
The Jaffer Express attack is a prime example of this evolving strategy. It was not a random attack but a well-planned attempt to hijack a train, take civilians hostage, and create mass panic. The intention was clear: to make Pakistan appear weak, insecure and to target Pakistan’s Security Forces. However, what the planners of this attack did not anticipate was the unmatched preparedness of Pakistan’s security forces. Within hours, a well-coordinated operation was launched, leading to the complete elimination of the terrorists and the safe recovery of all hostages. This operation stands as a testament to the efficiency and strength of Pakistan’s armed forces, who remain ever-vigilant against such threats.
The BLA, despite its claims of being a nationalist movement, operates more like a mercenary force, carrying out attacks not in the interest of the Baloch people but as per the directives of foreign handlers. For years, intelligence reports have highlighted how such groups receive financial and logistical support from across the border. There have been multiple instances where captured militants have confessed to receiving training and funds from sources linked to Indian intelligence agencies. This latest attack on the Jaffer Express follows the same pattern, another failed attempt to destabilize Pakistan while giving India plausible deniability.
One must also question the timing of this attack. Why now? Pakistan’s security landscape has significantly improved over the years, with major terrorist networks being dismantled. The deportation of illegal Afghan nationals further strengthened Pakistan’s internal security, cutting off potential routes for foreign intelligence agencies to exploit. This naturally frustrated those who had been using Afghan soil as a base to launch operations against Pakistan. It is no coincidence that as Pakistan tightened its security measures, incidents like the Jaffer Express attack took place. This is a clear indication that external forces are feeling the pressure and are resorting to desperate measures.
Pakistan, however, has consistently proven that it is not an easy target. Despite numerous attempts to create chaos, the state has remained firm, responding to threats with strength and resilience. The successful counter-operation against the Jaffer Express attackers once again demonstrated that Pakistan’s security forces are always several steps ahead. The enemy may plan in secret, but Pakistan’s intelligence and military apparatus ensure that such plans are foiled before they can cause significant damage. India’s use of proxy groups in its covert war against Pakistan is a dangerous game, not just for Pakistan but for regional stability as a whole. While India presents itself as a responsible nation on global platforms, its actions tell a different story. Funding and arming groups like the BLA is a direct attack on Pakistan’s sovereignty. The international community must take notice of this and hold India accountable for its role in supporting cross-border terrorism.
