Did a Pakistani Airstrike in Balochistan Injure Civilians?
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Synopsis
A recent Pakistani airstrike in the Chiltan Hills of Balochistan has left nine civilians injured, raising concerns about military accountability and civilian safety. The Baloch National Movement's Human Rights Department calls for international investigations into the incident, highlighting ongoing patterns of military aggression in the region.
Key Takeaways
- At least nine civilians injured in a recent airstrike.
- Local communities report ongoing military aggression.
- The attack has raised concerns regarding accountability.
- Calls for an independent investigation have been made.
- International humanitarian law prohibits targeting civilians.
Quetta, Nov 6 (NationPress) At least nine Baloch civilians were injured following an aerial assault by the Pakistani military on the Chiltan Hills in Balochistan, as reported by a prominent human rights organization on Thursday.
Citing verified information and eyewitness reports, Paank, the Baloch National Movement's Human Rights Department, disclosed that on October 28, an airstrike by Pakistani forces targeted a group of young civilians who were enjoying a picnic in the Chiltan mountain range near the provincial capital, Quetta.
The injured individuals were identified as Jahanzaib Mohammad Shahi, Imrani Sumalani, Maqbool Ahmed, Zahid Baloch, Manzoor Ahmed, Daulat Khan, Arbab Baloch, Rafeeq Lehri, and Wajid Ali.
The organization accused Pakistani authorities of trying to obscure the incident despite compelling evidence. Paank characterized the attack as part of a broader trend of indiscriminate air operations in Balochistan that consistently jeopardize civilian lives.
“The Chiltan Hills region, located on the outskirts of Quetta, has witnessed a surge in military activity and aerial operations in recent months. These actions are part of Pakistan's ongoing counter-insurgency efforts. Local communities have reported persistent fear and insecurity as civilians continue to be caught in operations where no verified militant presence has been confirmed,” stated Paank.
“This is not the first time civilians have been targeted in aerial attacks. On October 5, 2025, a drone strike in the Moola Pass area of Zehri, District Kalat, resulted in the deaths of six civilians, including four children and two adults, and injured three others. Despite video and eyewitness evidence, the state continues to deny responsibility for civilian casualties,” it added.
Condemning the attack in the Chiltan Hills, Paank emphasized that targeting civilians under the pretext of “counter-insurgency” represents a significant violation of both domestic and international law.
The rights organization noted that no independent investigation has been initiated, while families of the victims have reportedly been coerced into silence, and media access to the site has been curtailed. Civil society groups in Balochistan have also condemned the incident, labeling it a clear breach of international humanitarian law, which prohibits the indiscriminate or disproportionate use of force.
“The Chiltan Hills airstrike further illustrates a systematic pattern of impunity in Balochistan, where innocent civilians are repeatedly victimized amid military operations. Without independent oversight and accountability, such events are likely to recur,” Paank stressed.
The rights body called upon the United Nations Human Rights Council and international human rights organizations to conduct an independent investigation into this and prior airstrikes. It also urged the international community to compel Pakistan to honor its obligations under international humanitarian law and ensure civilian protection in all scenarios.
Point of View
It is paramount to approach such tragic incidents with a commitment to the truth. This occurrence in Balochistan reflects ongoing tensions and the necessity for accountability in military operations. Our focus remains on amplifying voices for justice and ensuring the protection of civilians in all contexts.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Chiltan Hills?
Pakistani military forces conducted an aerial attack in the Chiltan Hills, injuring nine civilians.
Who reported the incident?
The incident was reported by the Baloch National Movement's Human Rights Department.
What are the demands following the attack?
There are calls for an independent investigation from the UN Human Rights Council and other organizations.
Has the Pakistani government accepted responsibility?
No, the government has denied responsibility for civilian casualties in previous incidents.
Why is this incident significant?
It highlights a pattern of military operations in Balochistan that risk civilian lives and raises concerns about accountability.
