A suicide bomber carried out an attack near a railway track in Quetta, Pakistan, on Sunday. The explosion occurred as a passenger train was passing, resulting in at least 23 deaths and over 70 injuries, according to officials.
The violent blast overturned two train cars and started a fire, producing thick smoke. This attack occurred in a high-security area, causing significant damage to nearby structures and more than a dozen parked vehicles, as seen in online images and videos.
Local hospitals reported receiving large numbers of the injured, with 20 individuals in critical condition. Security officials, who requested anonymity, confirmed the transport of bodies to hospitals post-attack.
The Baloch Liberation Army, a banned militant group seeking independence from Pakistan’s government, claimed responsibility. They stated the intended target was a train carrying security personnel.
Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, has long struggled with insurgency. This resource-rich province often sees attacks against security forces and government sites.
“We strongly condemn the targeting of innocent civilians and are deeply saddened by the loss of precious human lives. Terrorist elements deserve no leniency,” stated Shahid Rind, Balochistan’s government spokesperson.
Following the attack, a medical emergency was declared in Quetta hospitals, and an investigation began.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the bombing, describing it as a “cowardly act of terrorism” and expressed condolences to victims’ families through his post on X.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti also condemned the attack, asserting the militants had attacked “innocent civilians, including women and children,” and pledged to pursue them.
Pakistan and India have historically tense relations, often accusing each other over various regional issues. The BLA has been labeled by Pakistani officials as supported by India, a claim denied by New Delhi.
President Asif Ali Zardari denounced the attack, emphasizing that militants hinder Pakistan’s regional peace efforts. Zardari assured the defeat of terrorists and their supporters.
The bombing followed reports of a nearing agreement between the U.S. and Iran, facilitated by Pakistan, to resolve a conflict affecting the Middle East. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated progress in peace negotiations, which involved Pakistan among regional allies.
Despite efforts by Pakistani authorities to curb insurgency, violence continues in Balochistan. An attack in 2024 in the province claimed 26 lives, including soldiers, at a train station.