July 25, 2026
New Wave of Insecurity: TTP Expands Attacks in Balochistan in 2026
FILE - Pakistani Taliban patrol in then their stronghold of Shawal in Pakistani tribal region of South Waziristan, Aug. 5, 2012. The…
By Abdulrehman Saqib
The militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has significantly increased its activities in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan during 2026, particularly in Pashtun-majority areas.
In July alone, the TTP claimed responsibility for three major attacks:
July 5: Five civilians were killed and six others injured in an attack near Quetta.
July 6: Gunmen attacked police in Ziarat district, killing nine officers. The bodies of abducted officers were later recovered.
July 15: Four government employees were found shot dead in Harnai district.
Security analyst Abdullah Khan, head of the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, said the TTP has operated in Balochistan for years but has expanded its operations in 2026. He noted that the group is now carrying out larger and more coordinated attacks than in previous years.
The recent violence has also sparked protests in Quetta, where families of the slain police officers and political parties continue a sit-in, demanding stronger action against militant groups. Local authorities and protest leaders are reportedly discussing an agreement that includes broader security operations in several districts of Balochistan.