Published on: August 12, 2025 at 00:22
The United States has taken a decisive step in its counter-terrorism policy by officially designating the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its suicide unit, the Majeed Brigade, as terrorist organizations. This move, announced by the U.S. State Department, comes after a series of deadly attacks targeting both Pakistani security forces and foreign nationals—particularly those linked to major infrastructure projects in Balochistan. The designation not only freezes the group’s assets under U.S. jurisdiction but also sends a strong diplomatic signal about Washington’s stance on militant violence in South Asia.
What the U.S. Decision Means
The United States has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its unit, the Majeed Brigade, as terrorist organizations under its Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) list. This move means that all assets of these groups under U.S. jurisdiction will be frozen, and American citizens are prohibited from providing them with any form of support.
The U.S. State Department cited multiple deadly attacks carried out by the BLA, including the 2018 assault on the Chinese Consulate in Karachi and the 2019 attack on a luxury hotel in Gwadar. The Majeed Brigade, the BLA’s suicide squad, has been behind several high-profile strikes targeting foreign interests in Pakistan, especially Chinese nationals linked to the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Why This Matters for Pakistan and Global Security
Pakistan has had the BLA banned since 2006, labeling it a major threat to national stability. Islamabad has welcomed Washington’s decision, calling it an important step in curbing cross-border terrorism financing and operational freedom.
For the global community, this designation has broader implications. It allows the U.S. and allied nations to disrupt the group’s funding networks, impose travel bans on its members, and prosecute individuals linked to its operations. The move also signals stronger counter-terrorism coordination between Pakistan and the U.S., particularly on issues affecting China’s investments in the region.
The Bigger Picture — What Happens Next
With the BLA and Majeed Brigade now officially listed as terror groups by the U.S., their ability to operate internationally could face significant challenges. Banks and financial institutions worldwide are expected to tighten scrutiny on any suspicious transactions linked to the group.
However, analysts caution that designations alone may not fully dismantle such organizations. The real impact will depend on sustained intelligence sharing, local enforcement, and political will. In the short term, the move is expected to put pressure on militant networks in Balochistan and possibly deter future high-profile attacks on foreign projects.
From a diplomatic perspective, the designation may help strengthen U.S.–Pakistan ties while reinforcing the message that terrorism—regardless of cause—will not be tolerated.