Balochistan [Pakistan], June 3 (HBTV): Former senator and Pashtun nationalist leader Afrasiab Khattak has called on the Pakistani government to explain the growing influence of the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), following threats by the group against Baloch communities and pro-independence organisations, according to The Balochistan Post (TBP).

In a message posted on the social media platform X, Khattak criticised the silence of state institutions over ISIS-K's reportedly expanding operations in Pakistan. He also raised alarms about foreign militants being apprehended with alleged links to international intelligence networks. Khattak noted that ISIS-K has openly declared war on the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

He warned that ISIS-K’s resurgence echoes the presence of al-Qaeda in the region two decades ago, and demanded accountability from Pakistan’s intelligence and security agencies. His remarks came after ISIS-K released a statement on May 25, accusing Baloch militant groups of attacking its bases in Balochistan’s Mastung district.

In a video shared by the group, ISIS-K issued threats not only against armed Baloch factions but also against human rights defenders such as Mahrang Baloch, families of the disappeared, and participants in peaceful protests, TBP reported.

Former US Ambassador to Afghanistan and Special Envoy Zalmay Khalilzad also voiced serious concern over these developments. He suggested that ISIS-K and Pakistani security forces now appear to be aligned against Baloch nationalist groups—an alliance he described as a dangerous shift in the region’s political and military landscape.

Khalilzad cautioned the international community that growing ties between extremist organisations and state actors in Balochistan pose a serious threat to regional peace and stability, according to TBP.

ISIS-K has reportedly issued warnings in Pashto and Farsi, urging its supporters in Balochistan to launch aggressive actions against Baloch political and nationalist movements. The group specifically incited attacks on gatherings organised by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, TBP stated.

These developments have drawn widespread condemnation from Baloch political groups and human rights advocates, who accuse the Pakistani government of using extremist organisations as proxies to suppress legitimate political dissent and civil rights activism. According to TBP, several human rights organisations have urged international bodies to demand accountability from Pakistan and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities in Balochistan.

(ANI)