The United States has officially labeled the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its militant faction, the Majeed Brigade, as Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTO). The US State Department announced the decision on Monday, marking a significant diplomatic win for Pakistan.
This designation also adds the Majeed Brigade as an alias to the BLA’s existing status as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group.
The BLA and its Majeed Brigade faction have claimed responsibility for numerous attacks. Among these was the deadly suicide bombing on October 6 near Jinnah International Airport. The attack killed three people, including two Chinese engineers, and injured at least 11 others.
Earlier this year, the BLA took responsibility for hijacking the Jaffar Express train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar. The attack resulted in 31 civilian and security personnel deaths, while over 300 passengers were held hostage.
A statement from the US Department of State said, “Today’s action demonstrates the administration’s commitment to fighting terrorism. Terrorist designations are vital tools to cut support for terrorist activities.”
The designation follows legal provisions under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224. It becomes effective once published in the Federal Register.
Pakistan’s government has previously described the BLA and Majeed Brigade as “Fitna al-Hindustan,” accusing India of supporting their insurgency against Pakistan.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti praised the designation. He credited the federal government and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir for advocating Pakistan’s anti-terrorism stance during recent talks in the US.
“BLA and Majeed Brigade shed innocent blood under the guise of ethnic rights,” Bugti said, emphasizing the need for global unity to end terrorism.
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