BLA Hijacks Jaffar Express in Pakistan, 450 Passengers Targeted, 155 Rescued, 20 Soldiers Killed

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has hijacked the Jaffar Express train in Pakistan's Balochistan province, taking hundreds of passengers hostage. The train, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, was halted after militants blew up the railway track and seized control. Reports indicate that the train carried approximately 450 passengers, including military and security personnel. The BLA claims to have killed six Pakistani soldiers during the attack and has threatened to execute hostages if military operations are launched against them. The group also claims to have killed 20 military personnel and shot down a drone. Pakistani security forces have rescued 155 hostages so far, including 104 civilians, but dozens remain in captivity. The BLA states it is holding 182 hostages and has issued a 48-hour ultimatum, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners and missing persons. The operation has resulted in the deaths of 27 militants, according to Pakistani officials. The attack underscores the ongoing conflict in Balochistan, where separatist groups like the BLA have sought independence, citing grievances over resource exploitation.