Pakistan Train Hijacking: Military Operation Ends Amid Heavy Casualties

PakistanMarch 13, 2025, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday condemned the deadly attack on the Jaffar Express, vowing that “such cowardly acts will not shake Pakistan’s resolve for peace.” The Pakistani military has confirmed the conclusion of its rescue operation, reporting that 33 militants and 21 hostages were killed, while over 300 passengers were safely evacuated, according to PTI.

The attack, which took place on Tuesday, saw separatist militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) derail and seize control of the passenger train carrying approximately 500 people in Balochistan province. The BLA has claimed responsibility for the assault, asserting that they killed 50 security personnel and captured 214 passengers, including active-duty soldiers. However, these claims remain unverified by independent sources.

Militant Demands and Escalating Tensions

Following the hijacking, the BLA issued a 48-hour ultimatum, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners and activists allegedly abducted by the Pakistani military. The group threatened to execute hostages if their demands were not met, warning that continued military intervention would result in the complete destruction of the train. On Wednesday evening, prior to the military’s announcement, the BLA claimed responsibility for executing 50 passengers. Reports indicate that up to 80 attackers were involved in the hijacking.

The train was en route from Quetta to Peshawar when it was ambushed in a mountainous tunnel, where gunmen opened fire, killing the train’s driver, according to Reuters.

Government and Military Response

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and praised security forces for their efforts in repelling the militants. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi denounced the perpetrators as “beasts” for targeting innocent civilians. In response, the Balochistan government imposed emergency measures to contain the crisis, deploying security forces who engaged in an intense firefight with the militants.

The military operation faced significant challenges due to the region’s rugged terrain and the militants’ strategic positioning within the train. Reports indicate that some militants had strapped explosives to themselves while embedded among hostages, complicating direct assault efforts.

Strategic Implications and Regional Concerns

This incident marks a significant escalation in the BLA’s tactics, showcasing their ability to conduct large-scale, coordinated attacks. While previous assaults on the Jaffar Express have been smaller in scale, this hijacking underscores a heightened level of operational sophistication.

Pakistan’s state media has speculated on potential foreign involvement, suggesting that the BLA may be receiving logistical support from Afghanistan, particularly from elements within the Taliban-controlled government in Kabul. There are also concerns that U.S. military equipment left behind during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan may have fallen into the hands of insurgent groups, including the BLA, thereby enhancing their capabilities.

Looking Ahead

With the immediate crisis resolved, Pakistan now faces pressing questions regarding its counterinsurgency strategy in Balochistan. While military force has been the government’s primary response to separatist movements, calls for a political solution are likely to intensify. Addressing longstanding grievances related to resource distribution and regional autonomy could prove crucial in preventing further escalation.

As the situation in Balochistan remains volatile, the international community continues to monitor Pakistan’s next moves, recognizing that the implications of this attack extend far beyond its borders.