By Uzma Ehtasham
In a chilling act of terrorism, the recent blast in Mastung, Balochistan, has once again plunged the region into a spiral of violence and despair. The attack, which took place near a police mobile outside a girls’ high school at Civil Hospital Chowk, claimed the lives of nine individuals, including innocent schoolchildren and a police officer, while leaving 35 others severely injured. The nature of this tragedy resonates deeply, particularly given that five of the deceased were young children aged between five and ten. This brutal targeting of a school van speaks volumes about the audacity and cruelty of the perpetrators, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing vulnerability of civilians in areas long plagued by violence.
Initial investigations revealed that the bomb was remotely detonated, hidden on a motorbike parked in close proximity to the school. This calculated act of violence sent shockwaves through the community, echoing across neighborhoods and highlighting the incessant threat posed to innocent lives. In the wake of the attack, federal and provincial authorities hastily condemned the incident, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi insisting that those responsible should face justice without compromise. Balochistan’s Chief Minister, Sarfaraz Bugti, conveyed his heartfelt condolences for the lives lost, particularly emphasizing the tragic trend of terrorists targeting the most vulnerable, including children and workers.
Yet, while these condemnations may reflect a sincere sentiment, they ring hollow without a corresponding commitment to actionable measures. Pakistan’s struggle against recurring acts of terrorism reflects a profound and systemic issue that has deep roots in policies and decisions spanning several decades. The nation’s alignment as a frontline ally in the U.S. War on Terror, particularly following the 9/11 attacks, facilitated the infiltration of extremist ideologies, significantly impacting Pakistan’s internal security landscape. This shift, initiated during General Musharraf’s regime, has had far-reaching consequences, entangling Pakistan in a cycle of violence exacerbated by foreign interventions in neighboring Afghanistan. Over the years, the nation has witnessed the loss of over 80,000 lives, including more than 10,000 security personnel, underscoring the heavy toll of terrorism on the fabric of society.
Moreover, the recent events in Mastung are symptomatic of broader regional tensions, with India allegedly exploiting internal strife to bolster separatist movements within Pakistan. The historical support for dissident Baloch factions and the use of Afghan Taliban networks have created a precarious situation, intensifying violence in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Such external influences not only undermine Pakistan’s internal security but also threaten the stability of critical economic initiatives, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The continuous disruptions and violence surrounding this project jeopardize the safety of Chinese workers, thereby straining relations with Pakistan’s important ally and impeding local and foreign investment opportunities.
Addressing this multifaceted challenge demands a robust and united response from all sectors of society. An essential first step is to leverage Pakistan’s alliance with the United States to press the Afghan administration to take decisive action against extremist factions operating within its borders. Although Pakistan’s security forces have demonstrated remarkable bravery in combating terrorism, their efforts could falter without a cohesive political and religious leadership united against this menace. It is crucial that terrorism is approached not as a partisan issue but as a collective national priority, compelling leaders from various political backgrounds to prioritize the security and stability of Pakistan over their differences.
The heart-wrenching tragedy in Mastung inevitably stirs painful memories of previous atrocities, such as the APS Peshawar massacre, reminding the nation of the consequences of disunity in the face of such brutality. To genuinely combat and ultimately eradicate this cycle of violence, national unity is imperative. Political, religious, and civic leaders must transcend their differences and present a united front, sending a clear and powerful message to both external adversaries and internal dissidents: Pakistan’s resolve to ensure peace and protect its citizens remains steadfast and unyielding in the face of terror. The hour calls for nothing short of collective commitment and action. Failure to achieve this unity could provide our enemies exactly what they desire: division, distraction, and an opportunity to further destabilize our nation. Only through resolute action and a shared vision can Pakistan hope to overcome the specter of terrorism and build a future grounded in security, prosperity, and peace.
(The writer is a public health professional and possesses expertise in health communication, having keen interest in national and international affairs, can be reached at uzma@metro-morning.com)
