Pakistan is gearing up to approach the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to seek the listing of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its armed wing, the Majeed Brigade, as terrorist organizations. This move comes on the heels of a diplomatic breakthrough in Washington, where the United States recently designated the Majeed Brigade as a terrorist outfit, having already listed the BLA in 2019.
A senior Pakistani diplomatic official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Islamabad will call on key countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union, and Gulf states to follow the US example and recognize these groups as terrorists.
The Majeed Brigade has escalated its activities in Balochistan, reportedly deploying female suicide bombers against military convoys and installations. Pakistan expects that the UNSC designation will strengthen the resolve of its security forces and provide momentum to ongoing and planned operations in the restive province.
Pakistan’s role as vice-chair of the UNSC Counter-Terrorism Committee offers it enhanced access to global decision-makers, creating a strategic opportunity to push this agenda forward. However, the process remains slow and subject to political dynamics, with potential opposition or vetoes from member states.
Read more: Designation of BLA and Majeed Brigade: How It Happened and Why the U.S. Did It
Diplomats in Islamabad acknowledge that countries seeking to maintain balanced ties with India may resist the move. Analysts also warn that India’s opposition could damage its international image, as it may be viewed as indirect support for Baloch insurgents.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of supporting terrorism in Balochistan, citing the capture of Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav as proof. The BLA itself has openly shown support for India, including during periods of heightened tensions between the two countries earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the United States has pledged to deepen counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan, naming the BLA alongside ISIS-Khorasan and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan as priority threats. A recent joint statement stressed the importance of coordinated strategies, suggesting that joint operations against these groups may be launched soon.
