US Designates BLA and Majeed Brigade as Terrorist Organizations, Pakistan Welcomes Move

Pakistan has strongly welcomed Washington’s move to formally designate the BLA and Majeed Brigade as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, a step Islamabad says strengthens global counter-terrorism efforts. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the BLA and Majeed Brigade have long been responsible for deadly violence inside Pakistan, from targeted attacks to large-scale assaults such as the Jaffar Express train hijacking and the Khuzdar bus bombing.

The United States’ decision, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, also adds the Majeed Brigade as an alias to the BLA’s existing designation as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group. This aligns with Pakistan’s own stance, the Majeed Brigade has been listed domestically as a terrorist outfit since July 18, 2024.

A History of Deadly Attacks

The Baloch Liberation Army first appeared on the US terror list in 2019, but its Majeed Brigade faction has since emerged as one of the most lethal components. In 2024 alone, the faction claimed responsibility for suicide bombings near Karachi Airport and the Gwadar Port Authority Complex.

The group’s most notorious strike came in March 2025, when armed militants hijacked the Jaffar Express travelling from Quetta to Peshawar. The assault left 31 civilians and security personnel dead and took over 300 passengers hostage for several hours, underscoring the group’s operational reach and willingness to target public transport.

Pakistan’s Pledge Against Terrorism

Islamabad’s statement underlined the sacrifices made by its security forces and civilians in the fight against militancy. Officials say Pakistan’s counter-terrorism drive has not only improved domestic security but also contributed to regional and global stability.

“Pakistan remains unwavering in its resolve to protect its citizens and eliminate terrorism in all forms and manifestations,” the Foreign Office said, adding that the country will continue working with international partners to tackle what it calls a “common challenge.”