Militants Seize Train in Pakistan, Threatening Hostages' Lives

Baloch separatist group demands prisoner exchange after hijacking Jaffar Express in Balochistan, leaving dozens dead and hundreds at risk.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) attacked the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, killing at least 30 and taking over 200 hostages, primarily security personnel.
The militants issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners and activists or threatening to execute all hostages and destroy the train.
Approximately 104 passengers have been rescued so far, while over 300 civilians were reportedly released by the militants, who claim to hold military and security personnel as prisoners of war.
The Pakistani military has launched a complex rescue operation involving helicopters and ground troops, facing challenges due to the train's location in a mountainous tunnel.
The BLA has intensified its insurgency in recent years, targeting infrastructure and security forces in a bid for independence for resource-rich Balochistan.