The US State Department on Monday officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The Majeed Brigade has also been added as an alias to the BLA’s earlier Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) status.
Long History of Violence
The BLA was first designated as an SDGT in 2019 following multiple terrorist attacks.
“Since 2019, BLA has claimed responsibility for additional attacks, including by the Majeed Brigade,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The group has claimed major attacks, including suicide bombings near Karachi Airport and the Gwadar Port Authority Complex in 2024. In March 2025, it claimed responsibility for hijacking the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express from Quetta, killing 31 civilians and security personnel, and taking more than 300 passengers hostage.
US Commitment Against Terrorism
“Today’s action taken by the Department of State demonstrates the Trump Administration’s commitment to countering terrorism,” Rubio stated. He emphasized that such designations are a key tool in limiting resources and support for terrorist groups.
The designation, carried out under Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224, takes effect upon publication in the Federal Register.
Decades-Long Insurgency in Balochistan
BLA, designated as a terrorist group by both the US and Pakistan, has led a decades-long insurgency demanding independence for Balochistan, a province rich in natural resources. The group accuses Pakistan’s government of exploiting its oil and mineral wealth while the ethnic Baloch population faces discrimination and poverty.
