JUI-F to launch protests after Eid I Pakistan to enhance educational ties with Bangladesh
In Focus
Terror attacks continue, as Pakistan mulls its response
Rohini Reenum
On 16 March, a suicide bomber crashed into a security convoy near Nushki in Balochistan, killing three security personnel and injuring 40 others. Two civilians also lost their lives in the attack, that took place on the convoy in the Quetta-Taftan highway. The explosion was followed by a gunfire exchange between the security forces and the militants who were hiding in the nearby mountains. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), all militants were neutralized. The banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has assumed responsibility for the attack.
On 17 March, Dawn reported that three separate attacks on police stations/posts were thwarted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In the first, a “simultaneous” attack was launched against the Yaqoob Khan Shaheed police station and a gas facility in Karak in a bid to overtake the “installations.” In the Karak attack, a security guard was killed while another was injured. In the second, the Pajgai police post was attacked in Peshawar, killing a constable. The third attack was thwarted by the Bajaur police on a police post in Darbano near Nawagai.
On the same day, The News International quoted “highly placed sources of the Foreign Office” and reported that Pakistan has summoned Taliban’s Chargé D’affaires (CdA) Sardar Ahmad Shekib and conveyed its “strong protest” against the “use of Afghan soil for the unpardonable offence.” Pakistan has also asked the Taliban regime to respond to evidence that the militants who perpetrated Balochistan train hijack had their handlers in Afghanistan. Pakistan also sharply reminded the Taliban that in the Doha Agreement, it had assured the international community not to allow Afghanistan to be used by terrorists against Pakistan. Pakistan has also expressed satisfaction with the international condemnation that the hijack has received, including resolution of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the subject which has recognized the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Majeed Brigade as groups perpetrating acts of terror.
Responding to a slew of terror attacks during the recent months, an editorial in The News International titled “The terror challenge” termed Pakistan’s terror problem as “an unrelenting struggle.” It highlighted that these attacks are “not isolated incidents” instead “part of a larger, ongoing pattern of violence.” This pattern is partly fueled by militants using “religious narratives to justify their violence” and exploiting “people’s religious sentiments to recruit new members.” In this context, the editorial lauded JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s denouncing of the Jamia Darul Uloom Haqqania madrassa blast. The editorial also urged religious scholars “to step forward to condemn terrorism in unequivocal terms.” Further, the editorial seconded PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s calls for a second phase of the National Action Plan (NAP) as the nature of militancy has evolved overtime and the status quo strategy has proven to be ineffective.
Another editorial in The Express Tribune titled “More terror!” also referenced the consecutive terror attacks that have been rocking Pakistan, including a total of six in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the last 24 hours. In this context, the editorial argued that Pakistan’s “anti-terror response is lacking.” It also pointed out that the “back-to-back” attacks demonstrate that the militants are “proactive.” Further, it argued that what the country needs is “a coordinated political and military response to the expanding mosaic of terror.” Additionally, it also noted the “deep-rooted grievances” against the state in both provinces and argued that “non-representation of masses is at the root of all ills.” Further, it also alleged the role of foreign players and “their well-cultivated abettors in society in the form of BLA, TTP and other outfits.” Thus, the editorial called for a two-pronged strategy wherein both these problems are dealt with.
On the same day, an editorial in Dawn titled “NAP revival” discussed the implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) which was brought in after the APS Peshawar attack in 2014 and subsequently reviewed in 2021. The editorial referenced DG ISPR’s latest comment following the Balochistan train hijack where he categorically stated that if all 14 points laid out by the NAP are implemented “terrorism can be eradicated.” This sentiment was also backed by federal minister of state for interior in the National Assembly. The editorial, however, highlighted that in the past decade, with regard to Balochistan and KP, while the kinetic measures of the NAP have been the centre of focus, its non-kinetic measures have not been implemented. Reiterating that the kinetic measures are “essential,” the editorial pointed out that non-kinetic measures like “supporting the reconciliation process in Balochistan, as well as overseeing reforms in KP’s merged areas, which are hardest hit by the TTP insurgency” are also crucial. It argued that anti-terror operations must also be complemented by “social, economic and political efforts” or “this bloody cycle of violence will continue.” In this context, the editorial highlighted Balochistan “socioeconomic misery” and “lack of political freedom for genuine Baloch leaders,” a grievance that terrorists capitalize on.
References:
Saleem Shahid, “Five martyred in ambush on forces near Noshki,” Dawn, 17 March 2025
Ghulam Mursalin Marwat, “Two cops slain in KP attacks,” Dawn, 17 March 2025Muhammad Saleh Zaafir, “Pakistan protests train hijack with Afghanistan,” The News International, 17 March 2025
“The terror challenge,” The News International, 17 March 2025
“More terror!,” The Express Tribune, 17 March 2025
“NAP revival,” Dawn, 17 March 2025
JUI-F to launch protests after Eid
On 17 March, Dawn reported on JUI-F head Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s intention to initiate country-wide demonstrations against the current federal government. While Rehman has indicated his willingness to also take PTI on board, the coalition talks will only take place after Eid. He also stated that the strain in ties between the PTI and the JUI-F have reduced. He further pointed out how PTI leaders still “remain” imprisoned and those who are currently running the party do not have “unity”. In the announced protest, protesters will raise their concerns against the government’s inefficient security policies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan and the surge in corrupt practices. Rehman has claimed that the federal government is ignorant about the deteriorating security situation in the two provinces. He alleged that for the federal government, Punjab remains centre of focus and other provinces face neglect. He said “if there is no terrorism in Punjab, it does not mean that the other provinces should be left to fend for themselves.” He also termed the members of the federal government “puppets.” He informed that a meeting will be convened where the party members will chalk out a strategy for launching the demonstration. He further claimed that the “existence” of Pakistan is under threat and only the opposition parties have expressed concern about it. He also rejected the rumors which hinted that his party will be “joining” the current federal government. He also referenced the Tehreek-e-Taliban sending out “threats” against him. Responding to it, Fazlur Rehman stated that he or his party will not back down under the pretense of any threat. (Kalbe Ali, “Fazl plans protests against ‘puppet govt’ after Eid,” Dawn, 17 March 2025; “JUI-F to decide on allying with PTI after Eid: Fazl,” The News International, 17 March 2025)
Pakistan to enhance educational ties with Bangladesh
On 17 March, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan Md. Iqbal Hussian Khan met Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani in Islamabad. The two sides are looking to enhance cooperation in “trade, economy, culture, health, education and people to people linkage.” In the meeting, the two sides stressed on the need to enhance air connectivity and “shipping connections.” This is essential to improve trade relations between the two countries in addition to people to people contact. The High Commissioner of Bangladesh conveyed the keenness of Bangladeshi students to enroll for higher education in the universities of Pakistan. Senate Chairman Gilani expressed his content towards a MoU which was inked between the two countries for export of white rice to Bangladesh from Pakistan. He also appreciated the leadership of Professor Muhammad Yunus and informed the High Commissioner that the Chief Adviser is admired in Pakistan for his contribution towards “micro finance and social development.” (“Bangladesh shows interest in student enrolments in Pakistan,” The News International, 17 March 2025)
In Brief
ECONOMY
On the federal government projecting its successful economic policies: “people don’t know whether to laugh or cry given their ongoing economic hardships,” says an opinion in Dawn
On 17 March, in an opinion in Dawn titled “State of economy,” Rashid Amjad highlighted the stark contrast between the government’s claims and the people’s perception of economy. He mentioned how the government has praised itself for bringing the current account deficit to a “surplus” and lowering the inflation rate. This has received appreciation from “creditors, bankers and multilateral development agencies.” He, however, argued that people will only appreciate the government if they witness a decrease in the cost of living, surge in “job opportunities” for the young population and improvement in “public services” such as education and health. He further highlightedhow the investment to GDP ratio has come down, which is a cause for worry. He also pointedout how investments in the “public sector development” have also nose-dived. Nevertheless, Amjad appreciated the finance minister who has put in efforts to conform to the benchmarks set by International Monetary Fund. However, he also reminded the readers that the first phase of the IMF requirements is relatively “easier” to comply with. (Rashid Amjad, “State of economy,” Dawn, 17 March 2025)
MEDIA
On the ban enforced on X: “it is time for the government to acknowledge that restricting access to social media platforms does more harm than good,” argues an editorial in The News International
On 17 March, an editorial in The News International titled “The value of X” discussed the real reason behind the government blocking access to X and how it is impacting the country’s economy. The editorial mentioned that the Lahore High Court has been reviewing appeals which have challenged the government’s decision arguing that it goes against Article-19 and Article-19A of the Constitution. The High Court has also raised questions regarding the continual usage of X by members of the government despite the ban. The editorial highlighted how the caretaker government which first enforced the ban in 2024 refused to even acknowledge the ban. Following that, PML-N led government which came to power in 2024, also feigned ignorance about the issue. In April 2024, the federal government finally acknowledged that a ban has been in place. As per the government, the ban was essential since X refused to conform to instructions from the government. Further, the government claimed that the ban was in put in place keeping in mind the security concerns as conveyed by the intelligence agencies. The editorial, however, questioned that if X was/is detrimental to country’s security, why are the members of the government been regularly using it. In this regard, the editorial alleged that the government has put the ban in place in order to keep a check on PTI’s popularity on social media. The editorial pointed out how the ban goes against the notion of “modern governance” and impacts country’s “digital economy.” The editorial thus urged the government to understand that the ban will not reap any benefits. The editorial also highlighted how the government fails to see/acknowledge that people continue to circumvent the ban by accessing X with the help of VPNs. (“The value of X,” The News International, 17 March 2025)
AF-PAK
KP to independently decide on sending back Afghan refugees, says CM Gandapur
On 16 March, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Ali Amin Gandapur informed that his government will delve on the issue of deporting Afghan refugees. The government will would look into the issue and then decide whether it will comply with federal government’s instructions to deport the refugees after the set deadline of 31 March. He termed the government’s refugee policy “inhumane and oppressive.” He clearly expressed his opposition to the federal government’s “repatriation policy” for Afghan refugees. He claimed that the refugees from Afghanistan have gone through “humiliation.” He said “I will decide what suits me, suits the culture and traditions of KP.” Further, he informed that the federal government has not officially communicated with him on the proposition of deportation of Afghan refugees. He also conveyed that his government has provided the federal government with “Terms of Refence” on ties with Afghanistan. He also expressed support for granting Pakistani citizenship to those Afghan refugees who were “seeking” it. (Mohammad Ashfaq, “KP will decide whether to expel Afghans after March 31,” Dawn, 17 March 2025; “Gandapur opposes forced repatriation of Afghans,” The News International, 17 March 2025)
WORLDVIEW
On Trump’s coercive policies: “it is becoming increasingly evident that nations are determined to stand up to US pressure,” says an opinion in Dawn
On 17 March, in an opinion in Dawn titled “Threats, coercion & pushback,” Maleeha Lodhi discussed the responses of countries which are facing the brunt of US President’s “coercive” policies. As per her opinion, Trump’s threat to enforce tariffs could potentially result into a wider “trade war” which would be detrimental to both the US and the global economy. She also pointed out the response from China which has swiftly enforced reciprocal duties on US imports which is likely to impact US farmers. China has also warned that Trump will not succeed in creating differences between Russia and China. She also noted how Trump’s Gaza plan was dismissed unanimously by most of the countries in the Middle East and Europe. As a result, Trump had to withdraw his proposition. Separately, Canada has also imposed duties on metals coming from the US as a response to Trump imposing taxes on Canadian goods. Lodhi thus argued that Trump’s threats have resulted in an increase in the “popularity of Liberal party.” Trump has also faced similar resistance from Mexico. Greenland’s recent election winner has also dismissed Trump’s proposition to occupy the island. Lodhi also highlighted how the EU countries have united in response to Trump wanting to build closer ties with Russia. (Maleeha Lodhi, “Threats, coercion & pushback,” Dawn, 17 March 2025)
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"The conversation on Balochistan would be better served by a frank discussion of what is likely to work."
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