Pakistan Interior Minister Warns of Rising Militancy in Northwest Provinces

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned of escalating militant violence in the country's border provinces, urging political unity amid ongoing deadly attacks.

Speaking in Lahore, Naqvi expressed concern over worsening unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stating that militant activity is increasing with incidents occurring almost daily. He praised efforts by provincial police but emphasized that counterterrorism operations cannot succeed without stronger political backing and coordination between authorities. Naqvi also described the security situation in Balochistan as troubling, warning that attempts to incite unrest through digital platforms undermine national stability.

His remarks followed a deadly car bomb attack in Bajaur district that killed security personnel and a child. The attack was later claimed by Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Jam Kamal Khan, Pakistan's minister of trade and commerce, stated that Pakistan will not reopen trade routes with Afghanistan unless concrete action is taken to stop militant groups operating across the border. He stressed that future commercial engagement with Afghanistan depends on eliminating militant safe havens, making security a precondition for restoring bilateral trade.

Reports indicate that continued instability threatens both economic activity and public safety, increasing pressure on authorities to restore order in the affected provinces.