Islamabad — Pakistani authorities have strongly criticized European countries and institutions for publicly supporting Iman Mazari and her husband, who were convicted under Pakistan’s domestic law for activities linked to the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a designated terrorist organization recognized by Pakistan, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Officials emphasize that the convictions relate to digital posts that undermined state institutions, and that appeal mechanisms are available. They stress that this legal process should not be mischaracterized as repression, but rather as enforcement of domestic law.
BLA: Terrorists, Not Separatists
Authorities clarified that the BLA is not a separatist movement, as some media narratives have suggested. “Separatism implies political dialogue; terrorism is defined by violence against civilians,” said a government spokesperson. The BLA has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks, suicide missions, and assaults on civilians and infrastructure, while Mazari has consistently presented its members as victims of state oppression.
Officials warn that support from European media and institutions, which frames BLA as a “separatist” group, distorts reality and risks normalizing terrorism. They argue that no international legal framework or humanitarian norm classifies violent attacks on civilians as “separatism,” and that media credibility depends on accurate terminology and factual reporting.
Impact on Civilian Rights and Security
Pakistan stresses that respect for human rights must include the rights of innocent citizens of Balochistan, not just individuals associated with terrorist groups. The government highlights that ongoing BLA attacks continue to threaten civilians, laborers, children, and security personnel across the province. Any narrative that softens the role of BLA or portrays its members as innocent undermines victims and obstructs accountability.
“European support for someone advocating solely for a proscribed terrorist organization, while ignoring the suffering of ordinary Baloch citizens, is deeply concerning,” said a spokesperson. Authorities reiterated that freedom of expression does not protect the glorification of terrorism or incitement to disorder, and that narratives must distinguish between political advocacy and the promotion of violence.
Read more :Security Forces Repel Multiple BLA Terrorist Attacks Across Balochistan
