ISLAMABAD, August 12, 2025 — The United States has formally designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its suicide unit, the Majeed Brigade, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) — a move that significantly escalates Washington’s counterterrorism stance against the group.
The announcement was made on August 11, 2025, by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said the decision “demonstrates the Trump Administration’s commitment to countering terrorism” and plays “a critical role in our fight against this scourge.”
Source: X/@ZardSi
Key Points from the U.S. Statement:
- Reason for Designation: The State Department cited recent high-profile attacks claimed by the BLA and Majeed Brigade:
- Suicide bombings near the Karachi airport and the Gwadar Port Authority Complex in 2024.
- Hijacking of the Jaffar Express in March 2025, killing dozens of civilians and security personnel.
- Escalation from 2019: The BLA was previously listed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) entity. The new FTO label brings tougher legal and financial restrictions, making it a criminal offense for anyone in the U.S. to provide material support and expanding the scope of sanctions.
Implications:
- The designation is widely seen in Islamabad as a diplomatic victory, validating Pakistan’s long-standing stance that the BLA is a violent terrorist proxy, not a political movement.
- It is expected to tighten the group’s international fundraising and logistical networks, especially in Western jurisdictions.
This move comes amid a period of closer Pakistan-U.S. engagement, following recent high-level visits and counterterrorism cooperation talks.
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