ZEHRI: The recent security operation in Zehri has revived debate over the state’s counterterrorism efforts and the role of local political groups, as claims and counterclaims intensify between the government and nationalist organizations.
The operation, carried out by security forces, targeted what officials described as militant hideouts belonging to the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
The BLA, which has claimed responsibility for several attacks in the region, had earlier asserted that its “fighters controlled Zehri” and that government forces had “fled” the area.
However, several political and activist groups, including the Balochistan National Party (BNP), the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and human rights activist Iman Mazari, criticized the military’s actions, alleging violations of human rights and the sanctity of private homes.
یہ تصویر آپ کو یاد ہے ۔ بی ایل اے نے کہا تھا زہری پر سرمچاروں کا کنٹرول ہے ۔ پاکستانی فوج بھاگ گئی ہے اور بی وائی سی ، ایمان مزاری اور اختر مینگل اس وقت تو خاموش رہے لیکن اب مسلسل چیخ و پکار کررہے ہیں کہ زہری میں تو پاکستانی فوج ” ظلم ” کررہی ہے ۔ ظلم مگر کس پر ؟ بی ایل اے پر ؟… pic.twitter.com/K6R347GOJK
— Balochistan Insight (@BalochInsight) October 11, 2025
In this regard, the security representatives have rejected these accusations, saying the operation was strictly aimed at militants who had attacked schools, hospitals, and roads in the region.
In this sense, the dozens of militants, including key BLA commanders, have been killed in operations since September 2025.
Furthermore, the critics, however, argue that the state’s approach risks alienating local populations.
The BNP and its allied organizations have called for restraint and humanitarian relief measures, urging the government to protect civilians affected by the conflict.
The government, meanwhile, insists that its focus remains on safeguarding ordinary citizens and eliminating militant networks.
