Islamabad, May 23, 2025 – Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused India of backing two major terrorist groups—the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)—calling them “Indian proxies.” Speaking on Geo News’ programme Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath, Asif said Islamabad will soon present “complete evidence” proving India’s involvement in the deadly school bus in Khuzdar attack, Balochistan.
Khuzdar Attack Sparks Outrage
A bomb struck a school bus near Zero Point on the Quetta-Karachi highway, killing six people, including three schoolchildren, and injuring over 40, mostly students. The children were on their way to the Army Public School in Khuzdar Cantonment. Officials confirmed that at least 15 girl students suffered injuries, with a dozen in critical condition.
Pakistan Vows Strong Response
Asif vowed that Pakistan will respond decisively, stating, “There will be no leniency for those who target innocent civilians.” He highlighted the well-known link between the BLA and India, stressing that the BLA’s leadership operates from New Delhi.
He referenced the recent Pahalgam attack in occupied Kashmir, where India blamed Pakistan without evidence. Asif said, “We requested an investigation, but India refused. Yet it continues to finance and support terrorism against us.” He warned Pakistan will not remain silent if provoked, especially amid nuclear threats.
Military Confirms Indian Involvement
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) condemned the attack and accused the Indian state of using “terror proxies” to spread terror inside Pakistan. ISPR pledged to hunt down and hold accountable the planners and perpetrators. The military also reported killing 12 terrorists linked to Indian proxies in recent operations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
At a separate press briefing, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced that China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed not to allow their territories to be used for cross-border terrorism. He stressed regional cooperation and confirmed Pakistan had firmly conveyed its anti-terrorism stance to the Afghan Taliban leadership.
Dar highlighted China’s ongoing support, including its position on Kashmir and respect for Pakistan’s sovereignty and dignity. He emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of regional tensions and reaffirmed diplomatic engagement with neighboring countries.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Office declared an Indian High Commission staff member persona non grata for violating diplomatic norms and ordered the individual to leave Pakistan within 24 hours. This action followed Indian proxies expulsion of a Pakistani diplomat on similar grounds.
